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Etta Madden's avatar

Oh, the sacrifices of the ministerial student—first those he made for himself and then those he forced upon his teenage daughter—secretarial school! But she knew that a university life promised more—however she might find her way there. ❤️ I love the teetotal wedding reception and the honeymoon with books! What a storyteller you are! And thank you for promising more of this dahlia and others. 👏👏👏

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Sarah Harkness's avatar

Thank you, Etta, I'm glad you enjoyed it. I think her story is fascinating...she put up with so much that she would never have chosen...and always with extraordinary dignity. Quite a heroine.

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Etta Madden's avatar

I look forward to reading the rest.

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Jill Swenson's avatar

A vivid portrait of a woman I hope to learn more about.

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Jules's avatar

Ooh! The details! Busman's Honeymoon! Loved this, Sarah.

Just been leafing through John Betjeman's collected letters (Vol 2). Loads of letters to Mary in that.

Isn't that NPG portrait lovely? She seemed like a smashing person. I'm impressed that she didn't keep "obey" in the vows. Good on 'er!

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Sarah Harkness's avatar

I think Betjeman was genuinely really fond of her

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Despina Kay's avatar

Your research blows me away! You could teach a masterclass.

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Sarah Harkness's avatar

Thank you.. but I just love where it takes me!

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Clip's avatar

super. thanks. awaiting more!!!!!!!!!!!

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Jeffrey Streeter's avatar

Fascinating! I'm looking forward to reading more.

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India Flint's avatar

You write most engagingly.

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Liz Howlett's avatar

I found this a really moving story - thank you so much for sharing your research on Mary Wilson

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Sarah Harkness's avatar

There's so much more to come....

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Liz Howlett's avatar

Excellent!

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Deborah Vass's avatar

I am so sorry I missed this first piece and and I am very glad to discover it at last!

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