The Henson Journals

[140]

Tuesday, July 17th, 1928.

I motored to Lumley Castle, & lunched there. The Duke & Duchess of York were there, and the house party with Captain Morley & Mr & Mrs Kirkup. After lunch we all motored to Jarrow, where the Duchess launched the cruiser "York" from Palmer's Ship.yard. The enthusiasm of the people was unbounded. They lined the roads, & presented a brilliant spectacle, all the children being armed with "Union Jacks", which they brandished ecstatically. The 'little duchess' is an extremely charming person, & the only witcheries she employs are those of her own simplicity, goodness, & beauty. I was much impressed (impressed), & greatly surprised by the loyal fervour with which the Royal People were received. Mrs Roger Lumley was in my car, & I found her a very pleasing & reasonable person. I parted with H.R.H. at Lumley, & returned home, feeling so tired that I retired early to bed.

Caröe & a quaint elderly Danish female his niece were at Auckland. They were out all day at Hartlepool; but came back to the Castle in time for dinner. The wonderful weather continued, & did much to make the Royal visit to Jarrow so greatly successful. The Communists must be gnashing their teeth.