George Clark Letters (2)

2 William Street, Waterloo Road, SE, 23/3/76

My Dear Father

I am glad to be able to say that I have got everything ordered now and seen after and I feel as if I had got my release, for I have had an exceedingly busy time of it and have found it hard work. London is so long and wide that to go from one end to the other entails great fatigue. They have provided me with a very nice double-barrelled gun for ball or shot (same supplied to the Hudson Bay Co-y) in case with all fittings and yesterday the Lay Secretary told me he thought the gun by itself would not be heavy enough for the larger game, so I must go and choose a rifle for myself and also a revolver which I have done, and I have been told by Captain Field, the celebrated shot who has seen the arms, that better arms it would be impossible to get. I would not buy breech loaders, as I considered that even if I took 1000 rounds per barrel, yet in a short time they would be done, and then I would be up a tree. Whereas, with muzzle loaders I can always get powder and lead and having all the moulds too can keep my arsenal replenished. So you can picture me with boots up to the knees, helmet on, rifle over shoulder, revolver in belt and ask yourself if it is probable any nig ger will stay in sight directly I pop out from behind a tree.

Mary and I went to Windsor on Saturday and got back on Monday, spending a very pleasant visit with Uncle and Aunt. We saw the Queen just coming in from her drive and other sights too numerous to particularise, and enjoyed our visit very much. Day before yesterday we went to Woolwich with Aunt Elizabeth and spent a day with Aunt Ann. Mr Brown, I, Mary and Ellen went round the country for a walk in the afternoon. They are all very well and were glad to see us. In the evening Eliza showed us her painting and we had some music, and left there at 10.25 in a tremendous snowstorm.

Yesterday it was horrid to see the streets. I was splashed up to the neck. In the evening I went to Clapham. Were rather disappointed. Copus and Loo going on with their nonsense. Today have been to Stepney to see Dr Barnardo’s home for street Arabs, and Mrs Hilton’s creche. Have to meet full Committee on Tuesday at 11. O’clock to give us our dismissal. Now I hope you are all enjoying good health and strength. Will write before I go from Southampton, and remain, Dear father

Your affectionate and loving son

George Clark