Holidays

Abstract

Barnes left for Wales on 14 July, joining his war-time friend Dr Boyd. ‘Doc’s’ wife and little son Leslie, and his brother Norman made up the party. Norman Boyd was, like the headmaster at Chillon College, the kind of man that Barnes greatly admired: a Christian and a sportsman. The ‘muscular Christianity’ suited him. He also enjoyed the company of little Leslie and the fun of family life. Since he left home as an apprentice, 20 years before, his life had been without such cheer. While he was away, the Wallis household was disrupted by the faithful Harriet’s absence, and Auntie Fanny invited Molly to keep her company. Before he left, Barnes arranged his room with loving care, leaving a request with Fanny.