May 27th Friday. The most lovely day, took Ray away from the garden to take us all for a run, over Dunston Hill and along under the Downs to Amberley and home via Madehurst. The green beginning to soften the storm damage at last. Hedges still frothing with May and Queen Anne’s Lace and Red Campion, and the elder coming out.
… Ray gave Barny and Basty a bath … (Diary, 26/5/88)
May 26th Thursday. Hazel looked in this morning. Ray gave Barny and Basty a bath.
Barny and Basty (Sebastien) were Rosemary’s two chihuahuas at that time.
…had Muriel to tea … (Diary, 25/5/88)
May 25th Wednesday. Had Muriel to tea while Sheila went to the hairdresser. Geraldine in this evening.
… still such a lot to do in the garden … (Diary, 24/5/88)
May 24th Tuesday. Typical Tuesday. Did think of going along for the ride when Ray took Mrs P home, but decided Ray would be quicker without me, and still such a lot to do in the garden.
… warm and pleasant evening … (Diary, 23/5/88)
May 23rd, Monday. Grey day turning into a warm and pleasant evening.
ROSEMARY SUTCLIFF (1920-92) 