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"Surely they will strike me off their list?", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 22nd November 1965, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), wishing her a happy birthday 'many returns of the 23rd. I have got the date right I hope!' She continues 'I hope you have a nice day, but it will be rather a shilling with Kristen at school. I know my birthdays started to be very shillingish when Kits was at west Downs, it used to be such routes for him to tear down in with his present in the morning, and of course once school started it never happened again. Then they marry and that's your Lot!' Daphne continues 'I am in a quandary about Christmas. I've said I would go to Flaves, but Oh, dear, between ourselves it does so bore me. The packing up, getting in a bloody train, being there over the Christmas weekend, and the whole performance. It's always been such deathly routes to have it here. But they were insistent none of them would come down to Mena this year, so I s'pose it would be selfish not to go to one of them'. She adds 'of course it's rather sad when everyone marries and begins to want Christmas in their own home; still, it's a routes old-fashioned thing to go to grandparents don't you think?' Of her recent driving lessons 'but tell Bim I go along thinking I am doing about 60 miles and hour, look down at my dashboard, and I'm only doing 25! Moper would say I'm one of those blood slow women drivers creeping along... but I suppose I shall get quicker eventually'. Daphne frets about Christmas cards now that her husband is dead 'I wonder if Moper's old buddies will think they have to go on sending me cards. If they do I shall be done. I really can't compete! And what of the Palace? Surely they will strike me off their list?!' (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I am intrigued about your writing! Will it pass the censor...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 29th November 1965, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), 'I am intrigued about your writing! Will it pass the censor, I ask myself?? Perhaps another "The Naked Lunch" or "The Carpet Baggers." Seriously, though, what fun. You must let me judge when its gone halfway. By-the-way, I had a routes card pathetically from your mother, and I wrote back to her at once, praising you all, such good friends to me, etc, so she will be pleased. I wish the poor old girl could come over'. In the post script Daphne details a section from the recent Airborne Memorial Service which her daughter Tessa attended 'such a strange, and rather consoling thing, which you would say was psycho... I was struck by the fact that the Lesson in the service, only one, and read by Sir Kenneth Darling, was the chapter about The Wisdom of Solomon... which was Moper's deathly routes thing he used to read out loud to himself, and in our early married days we used to have a ritual about it, he used to read it to me aloud, and when we visited Lanteglos church'. Upon writing to Sir Kenneth about the reading she discovered that it had been included in the service this year for the first time. 'Well...... Maureen, honestly, dont you think its queer? As if Moper, with all his gang "up there", was taking an interest in this year's Memorial, and somehow got the Wisdom of Solomon into the service on purpose, by telepathy, as a kind of sign'. 'Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Please don't bother about roses...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 9th December 1965, 'Bing', one page, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), a brief letter 'in haste' regarding gifts 'the tea-caddy has come, very nice, and I look forward to the honey. Please don't bother about roses you have sent me enough goodies as it is'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Unless I kept myself busy it would be fearfully empty...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', one page, Mena, 31st March 1965, to Mrs Baker-Munton ('Dearest Maureen') Daphne recounts the aftermath of Sir Frederick Browning's death 'I plug away, with only a few letters to do, and am not too lonely on my own, though I get weepy around bed time, when it's such routes to, or was, to be on our own, and Ovaltine, etc. And obviously unless I kept myself busy it would be fearfully empty'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"It did rather scream for good antique furniture, especially in that great hall place itself", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 11th July 1965, two page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') a good update letter after her husband Boy Browning's death. He's just written wanting details of poor Moper's cremation to put into some Pedigree particular - so unnecessary, I should think. I can hear Moper saying "What on earth does the silly clot want that for?" And he tells me no woman has the right to use a crest on note-paper, so I will have to wipe out the wings in future. What a shilling!' Daphne relays that her sister Angela 'Piffy' had said of her son Christian Browning's new house Tythe Barn that 'it did rather scream for good antique furniture, especially in that great hall place itself'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

Daphne du Maurier: (1907-1989) British Author, vintage signed and inscribed Christmas greetings card, Royal Fowey Yacht Club issue, signed 'Moper and Bing' in her hand and dated '1964'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Wish I could brew in the hut...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 28th February 1964, 'Bing', one page, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), a brief letter as Daphne is writing "brewing" hand. 'Lovely warm day like spring, and wish I could brew in the hut instead of humped in the Long Room'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"More tied than ever!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 30th July 1964, 'Bing', three pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne begins 'all goes well with us. My beastly virus type sinus cold has gone, and Moper's sudden glooms have departed, since Martin's changed his pills around... It could be the anti-climax after having at last, after two or three years, finished the boat. I might feel the same at the end of a book, it it took me three years to do! Certainly when I'm not working, and its the start of autumn, I get a bit "down", but not the dreadful groans of depression that attack poor Moper'. Regarding her dog Moray, she remarks 'my summer is being given up to getting him in hand, and he is now house-clean, and not so rampagey, and actually a dear little dog, but so stupid about me, that he won't let me out of his sight, which is a bloody bore. More tied than ever!' Of her daughters Flavia and Tessa's recent holiday Daphne comments 'Tess and Peter like sight-seeing, old churches, buildings, etc, and Flave only wants to bask on a beach, or doll herself up and sit on a bar-stool and be admired, this according to Tess, which I feel is correct'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"No boatie for anyone...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 9th September 1964, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne breaks the news of her husband Sir Frederick Browning's illness. 'I'm afraid we've been out of touch for too long but there's a crisis going on here. Poor Moper has had such trouble with his leg, or rather foot, in walking, and it turned out to be a clot'. She continues 'of course, routes, it all happened over the Regatta time... and no boatie for anyone'. She details her arrangements while he is in hospital 'Flave is here thank goodness, and can take me backwards and forwards in her Jag'. She confides 'I loathe ops, as you know, but Martin says better this comparatively light one to the prospect of a foot off if the trouble continues'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Operation done Friday, but so far not an awfully good result...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, ? 1964, 'Bing', one page, to Mr & Mrs Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Bim & Maureen'), Daphne updates them on her husband Sir Frederick Browning's health. 'Operation done Friday, but so far not an awfully good result. Another consultation today... Poor Moper has also had a lot of pain, as they cant - owing to his nerve pills through the years - give things like morpia. Hospital very good and I have no qualms about their ways and treatment'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Only cure would be drastic surgery...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 17th September 1964, 'Bing', one page, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), as the situation with her husband Sir Frederick Browning's health deteriorates 'just a hasty word. Moper still in pain, tho was a bit brighter yesterday. X rays show left foot and leg really beyond treatment (arteries almost non-existent) and only cure would be drastic surgery (chopping) which he is not fit to stand'. She advises 'dont bother writing to him about any of this, unless just a brief word saying how trying it must be for him. (Not a word about the leg being so useless)'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I've no work on hand, so can be nurse, secretary, or what have you...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Mena, 25th September 1964, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), now her husband Sir Frederick Browning is back at Menabilly 'here Moper is picking up, and being so brave and spirited about it all'. She continues 'he's already choosing a new car he can drive with one foot - a T.R.2000. Whether he ever will who can tell - but what of it, anything to keep his spirit up and have something to think about ahead. She adds 'Thank goodness my book is finished, and I've no work on hand, so can be nurse, secretary, or what have you'. Although 'one has got to keep calm and non-emotional. The thing of watching Moper in pain nearly killed me, but if I knew if I relaxed control in any way it would be hopeless. The queer thing is that I find this proper crisis of illness easier to bear up under than the drinking thing, which truly got me down. I s'pose, though awful, tis more natural-like'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"We have had an agonising Christmas...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. 'Bing', one page, Mena, 28th December 1964(?), to Mrs Baker-Munton ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne recounts Sir Frederick Browning's failing health. 'Just a scrappy line forgive me...We have had an agonising Christmas (I mean I have!) with Moper in acute and constant pain, unable to come into the Long Room for the Tree or anything... I am afraid it is going to mean hospital again before long, it is too anxious making for words'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

Du Maurier (Daphne), 'The Glass Blowers', first edition, signed by author, 1963, together with other first editions 'The Parasites', 'The House on the Strand', 'Rule Britannia' and 'Golden Lads', all signed by author (5)Books: 'The Glass Blowers', dedicated in blue ballpoint pen, signed 'Bing', dated April 1963, published by Victor Gollancz Ltd, London, together with 'The Parasites', dedicated in blue fountain pen, signed 'Daphne', dated October 1949, published by Victor Gollancz Ltd, 1949, also 'The House on The Strand', dedicated in blue pallpoint pen, signed 'Bing' and 'Daphne du Maurier', dated 'Kilmarth 1969', published by Victor Gollancz Ltd, London, and 'Rule Britannia', dedicated in blue ballpoint pen, signed 'Bing', dated 'November 23. 1972', published by Victor Gollancz Ltd, London, finally 'Golden Lads', signed in blue ballpoint pen 'Daphne du Maurier', dated 1988, published by Victor Gollancz Ltd, London.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"That frightful Rabbo - so typical - give Peter a lot of French Letters for Christmas...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 15th January 1963, 'Bing', three pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne updates her on the festive season exclaiming 'I feel so bad I have not written at all. BUT THE COLD... We go about bent double, and Moper wears his dressing-gown over all his other clothes when he passes from room to room'. She amusingly regales Maureen with tales of the grandchildren 'the star turn was little Rupert who I've nicknamed The Saint... He showed up the wild little Zulus frightfully... perhaps Flave's rather odd character (and she was sweet-tempered as a kid,) and Alastair's grave sense of propriety, has given birth to this little paragon!' She continues to remark 'Tess and Peter didn't seem to fall out... I wish they lived in better surroundings, Grimsby does sound the end'. Daphne continues 'that frightful Rabbo (Christian Browning) - so typical - give Peter (Major Peter de Zulueta) a lot of French Letters for Christmas - honestly! Actually there's a funny sequel, and a hit against me, because when Rabbo was packing to leave, he said "Damn - Peter's gone off with all my F.L's..." and I immediately answered, in great concern, "Oh darling - haven't you got any?" which made him yell with laughter. I suppose it is funny. My absolute lack of moral sense regarding him!'. Daphne adds 'though to tell you the truth I am rather worried. He is mad about this girl in Ireland... Olive is her name... they are having a wild affair, and good luck to that, but I'm so afraid she'll screw him to marriage, being a Catholic, she might work it'. Daphne is referring to Olive White an Irish beauty queen (former Miss Ireland) who Christian Browning would later marry.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"If only we hadn't got landed with the deadly boring relatives...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 29th August 1963, 'Bing', one page, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne apologies for not being able to accommodate all of the Baker-Muntons due to a flood of guests. 'I do hope you are not too terribly damped by my saying we couldn't manage you all'. She continues 'if only we hadn't got landed with the deadly boring relatives next month, he (Sir Frederick Browning) does get so tired of talking, and one can't just expect strangers to fall in with routes sups in the telly-room and T.V!' Daphne remarks on her husband's worsening health 'he seems to get colds at the flick of a hat, I would not dare venture abroad'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Doing all the old "Mummy pay" tricks...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Mena, 28th October 1963, 'Bing', one page, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') 'now that the dark evenings start, and I can write after tea, instead of being beguiled to catch the last of the day outside'. Daphne thanks Maureen for their recent stay 'I must say we are sighing after Suffolk sunshine and the crisp air - here it is routes mist and drizzle'. Having met Christian Browning's fiancee Olive White earlier in the year Daphne laments 'I'm a bit worried about Kit's finances, which seem to go the way Moper's did (and still do!) in old days. Always in the "red" despite his big Trust and what he makes in films, from sheer inability to budget his expenses, and I see him making poor Olive pay for household things and doing all the old "Mummy pay" tricks'. Daphne also remarks 'what do you think of Hume now he is P.M? He had menace for me the first time I saw him on T.V. I suddenly saw he had potential menace value! I think it is the rather tongue in cheek expression in his eyes'. Daphne seems to be referring to Lord Home of the Hirsel who was Prime Minister between 1963-64. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"It must be psychological politics...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 7th December 1963, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne laments on seeing her husband Sir Frederick Browning that he 'did that routes thing of not asking me anything about my trip, or what did I think of Kit's house, and just went on talking about what he had seen on the telly! It must be psychological politics'. The saga of which fur to wear to Christian Browning's wedding continues 'I must tell you I've had second thoughts about lending ermine coat for wedding as I might find I want it myself... I could always lend you the Persian lamb'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I would think she knows her onions (sexwise) and has Keelered a bit in her time...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Mena, 15th July 1963, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') an extremely entertaining appraisal of her son Christian Browning's new partner Olive White. 'The big news, and I was waiting to report, was the visit this week-end (they left this morning) of that Rabbo and his Olive! You can imagine I was on tenterhooks, but so determined not to be like Mrs Tower when she first received Flave at her house ("Now we must have a little talk..") that I went all out to make things easy and jam-along, though filled the house with welcoming flowers as if it was the Queen once more! Moper also bobbing, and rather nervous, and changed into his black velvet dinner jacket I s'pose to make an impact! Anyway, they arrived late for dins Friday night - the duck had to be held up - and you know how one goes by first impressions. Well, as she got out of the jag, smart, in a pink tweed suit, and of course very attractive, very tall, with that make up that all these girls do these days, and very black lashes and bleached hair, and we chatted and sort of whisked in with suit-cases, I thought to myself "Now wait a minute, if it were not for the bleached hair, what is it about her that is familiar? Guess who? Vallie!! You remember when Vallie first came over, and was an Air Hostess, and was very striking to look at, and came to stay, and was not a bit shy, (you were not here) and I was a bit taken aback because she called Moper "Boy" which you had never done - but was very easy and jam-along, well - awfully that type. Put her in an Air Hostess's uniform and she would be saying, with a bright smile, "fasten your Seat Belts, please". I must say, she was awfully nice. Not mincey, or brash, or in any way waine, neither talked too much or too little, seemed perfectly at home though not over so, called me Bing (did'nt call Moper anything) got taken to see the boat, and in fact it went with a Swing! Moper like a dog with two pricks, very attentive, took her to Mass on Sunday (Rabbo abed!)... then while Kits and I did some work on a script, he and Olive washed all the glass and put it in boxes, in the pantry!! So I now see it all, Moper as an old man of 80, lives in some back part of Kits's (by that time) mansion in Suffolk, with Olive waiting on him hand and foot - I by then, in me grave! No, truly, she really was a success, and what beats me is why she should be so obviously in love with Rabbo. I mean, I would have thought she would have gone hell for leather for "the older man" - a sort of 40ish types. You may say, eye to the main chance, and she knows she's on to a good thing, but even so, she could find a rich "good thing" of 40 odd. Kits' very jam along with her... While she, one felt could have eat him up. Snuggled up to him when watching telly, etc. I would think she knows her onions (sexwise) and has Keelered a bit in her time, but despite this does not appear showy off or spoilt in anyway... I bet she has an Irish temper, and would fling things about if she lost it with him'.'Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning. Christian Browning would later marry the Irish beauty queen Olive White in 1964.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"He's going great guns with his Irish model", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 26th February 1963, 'Bing', three pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') an amusing letter on errant dogs and children. 'I've been meaning to write for some time, and really have not much excuse, except that I've been working on a film script for that fearful Rabbo, who probably wont ever make use of it anyway! But it kept me busy during the cold winter days, and you know how I loathe not working at something'. Of the canine human relations; 'he's still Ruler of all he surveys. Moper humbly giving up his chair, if demanded, and as for me, if I now move in bed at night, there is a fearful warning mutter from the lair on the floor beside me. I suppose it means my movements "disturb" the pasha in his bed. It's a bit much. Moper said he wrote pages to Bim after Christmas, all about the boat, and the yard, and his new car - now come, Alfa Romeo - and is hard chairy because Bim never answered it. I suppose he got it?... Re the Alfa - strictly entre nous - it's a shilling, from my point of view. I loved the Peugeot. This new one is like the sports cars that Rab would have, only more cramped! Still Moper thinks it's terrific, so that's the only thing that matters. As for that Rabbo, he's over in Dublin again for a "few days". He's going great guns with his Irish model, one does under where it will end up'. She considers 'I feel it my duty to work up a script for him. I've done one about Ireland, a sort of sequel in a way to Hungry Hill, which would be grand for some menace like Peter O'Toole to do. But I can't see Peter O'Toole asking for Rabbo to direct!'. Daphne continues 'Flave has gone mad on painting again. Says she can't stop, night and day, and painted about 14 pictures in one week. I'm so glad. (I wonder if its a sex substitute? Could be) Anyway, I've always said she had talent'. Of the Glass Blowers; 'Moper has an advance American copy, but I'm sure he isn't reading it, tho he takes it solemnly up to bed every evening. Perhaps it is a fearful Tell Him!' Finally 'talking of honks, I think that Harold Wilson, new labour leader, is oddly menacing! Do you vaguely see what I mean? In a stalwart, rather powerful sort of way?! I'm sure he will be the next Prime Min. I'm so bored with the Govt, I'm practically turning Labour anyway'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I have never thought it would be a seller, as it does need a lot of concentration...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 29th April 1963, 'Bing', one page, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') a scathing letter about the review of her book The Glass-Blowers and her son Christian Browning's behavior. 'You should have your copy by now, and I hope you dont find it a Tell Him. I was so unlucky with the Sunday Times review. The proper reviewer, who loved the book and wanted to do it was away in Spain, and they gave it to a young man of 26, a budding novelist himself, who obviously hated every word. These things are so in the lap of the gods. But I have never thought it would be a seller, as it does need a lot of concentration'. Of her son Christian Browning 'that awful Rab has been getting his name in the Sunday mirror (of all papers) with his Dublin girl, I wish he would be a bit more discreet with his amours. One never knows what he will do next. If he does end up marrying her, in two years time I shall be having to pretend to her that he is here, when he's off with someone new. I can so see it all! And then some wretched little offspring being dumped here on me to look after'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I can't cook today, it's my mixodemia!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 15th May 1962, 'Bing', two pages, to Mr & Mrs Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Bim & Maureen'), Daphne dispenses advice to Mr Baker-Munton on 'the India prospect, it does sound to me so grim'. She continues 'I think if I was Maureen (as you read this letter!) I would stick my toes in. Let Bim go for 6 months, and then have some other person take over for him, having been trained by Bim'. Although she considers 'it would be different if you were in cracking good health, but with myxamatosis - or whatever it is.....?' Although 'I hastily looked it up in my Med Dic (medical dictionary), and it says how people get lethargic-like, and heavy, and sluggish, so that can be a good excuse if you don't want to do any chores. "I can't cook today, it's my mixodemia!" Daphne pokes fun at the similarity in words between a disease which afflicts rabbits (myxomatosis) and the thyroid condition (mxedema) which Maureen suffers with. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Oh what a bloody bore it all is...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', two pages, Mena, 16th July 1962, to Mrs Baker-Munton ('Dearest Maureen'), regarding the Queen's planned visit to Menabilly. 'Moper has dropped me a bombshell by saying I must wear a hat on the day - even tho' informal, in my own house - I can't believe it's right... I don't possess a hat, and if I'd known would have got one in London... but I still think it's idiotic, in one's own house'. Daphne continues 'Oh what a bloody bore it all is, and has just about ruined the summer, because of fussation'. She continues 'Moper O.K. but I'm sure he's rather nervous at the bottom, and keeps thinking of things that are far too late in the day to care now, like no crests on any of our spoons!' (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"The awful new blow is that the Queen has got to come to tea to Mena...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', one page, Mena, 2nd June 1962, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen'), a good update letter on Maureen's forthcoming visits and the Queen visiting for tea. 'Excuse rough bit of paper, but it's "left over" from me book! Its gone to be retyped, and off my mind, so that's one thing out of the way'. Regarding the Queen's planned visit to Menabilly. 'The awful new blow is that the Queen has got to come to tea to Mena on the 25th July, and I'm already Dreading it - the fuss and commotion, but I think Moper is secretly pleased. She is doing the Duchy farms, and has expressed a wish for tea at Mena! (You might do a bit of surreptitious polishing while you are here!) Tess thinks I ought to have my bedroom and bathroom done up in case she wants to powder her nose and nim, but I really can't - such a sweat!' (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I must say, "love" as such bores me to tears nowadays...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', one page, Mena, 20th August 1962, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen'), an amusing letter regarding the Queen's visit to Menabilly and the effects on the household. Daphne's dog Bib 'had to have sedative pills after the Queen's visit!! I think he had been put out with all the preparations, and then when she arrived, he was shut up in the old kitchen with the Burt's Toby, so lost face!' She continues 'Moper will have told you about the Visit, and I was so worn out with doing the flowers before - 25 vases (Tod!) that when the day came I was not nervous. And it was a crumb as the car with the royal standard came sweeping up the drive, and the Queen inside, radiant, all in white. The actual hour passed quickly enough, and typically, no one eat anything hardly, such a waste of the spread. I don't know what I talked about, I heard sounds coming from my mouth I didn't recognise! She was very nice, tho' one can't really say she is jam-along, can one? I dont see how she can be, always on show like that. He looked a little pale, haven fallen at polo a little while before... But my plans went adrift, and out of the corner of my eye I saw Piff handing the Queen all the wrong things, and some ass gave her an old green plate instead of the new glass ones. Still, as if she cared.. I took her and Lady Leicester to nim in Blue Lady, but Moper never showed the men the lobby, and I feel sure their bladders were bursting. it was a great relief when it was all over'. Daphne continues 'Gollancz and McCormick of Doubledays are very pleased with my Glass-Blowers, which is a relief, and it doesn't have to be cut at all, for a wonder. I don't think it will be a popular success though because there is no great romance or main love-interest in it, and people always seem to want that. I must say, "love" as such bores me to tears nowadays. Me age-group, I s'pose!'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"One only hope it doesn't end at the altar", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', one page, Mena, 3rd December 1962, to Mrs Baker-Munton ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne writes about working in Aldeburgh with her son Christian Browning 'Rab' on a film script 'by the dint of working non stop we got the thing finished in six days'. Although he's 'now flown off to Dublin for the weekend to see his lady love - the latest - "Miss Ireland" of 1961. She's a model, and looks stunning. One only hope it doesn't end at the altar, as I imagine she's a Dublin colleen'. She continues 'I dont want to run an Xmas home for Alcoholics. I came back to find Moper has lapsed (not a word to anyone) and he has been in bed for two days. He was 100% when I went away. It is so disheartening... I simply dare not have any liquor out on the side board over Christmas with two potentials in the house'. She's adds 'it's going to be a sweat, still, if everyone keeps sober, we should survive'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I think it's a bit too See Me!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 16th January 1962, three pages, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), a good update letter on various topics, 'Do you like Moper's new crest? I think it's a bit too See Me! But it seems the College of Heralds says its correct. But entre nous, I liked the old one best.' Daphne continues 'I'm so glad the Reliable One has started well at school, and I hope he doesn't get too tired. There is a theory that children cant get overtired by using their brains, so if he looks white it might be the emotional impact of the first weeks!' Daphne remarks of her husband Sir Frederick Browning 'it makes all the difference to one's life and outlook when he is O.L. Such a change from this time last year. And yet he's leading identically the same rather monotonous life. It is queer, isn't it?'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

Daphne du Maurier: (1907-1989) British Author, A.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, December 1961, to Mr & Mrs Baker-Munton, ('To Bim and Maureen') wishing them a 'Happy Christmas', together with three vintage signed and inscribed Christmas greetings card, two signed 'Boy and Daphne' in her hand, and one signed 'Daphne du Maurier'. (4) (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I fear he is getting beyond my control...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 14th May 1961, one page letter, to Mr & Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen & Bim') on recent company and concerns about her husband. 'The Bicknell visit was rather exhausting, as they stayed until Thursday (having come for the night!) and Alan Bicknell, never draws breath. Quite amusing in a way, but too much, and rather an old bogus intellectual. She quiet and a bit pathetic... Anyway Moper started on the whiskey - I can hardly blame him, I nearly did myself, but I hoped he would stop when they left. We were all set for a day on the moors with pasties for yesterday, my birthday, but at 11:20 when I came down to collect them, I found him dead drunk in the telly room. I nearly burst into tears in front of Esther... I fear he is getting beyond my control'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"No Palace to fuss him, no Garden to pest him, no silly sixpence here to agitate him...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 28th May 1961, three page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') a frank letter regarding her husband Sir Frederick Browning. 'Many thanks for the lovely slippers. They really are most attractive. Too good for trusting my old socked feet into down here, but perfect for the naked foot - so I shall perforce await either a heat wave, or another holiday travel, when they can be flaunted in a hotel bedroom!' Daphne continues 'if only Moper would take trips of this kind, it does so change one's ideas and liven one up. But it can unsettle too, a bit, and I see your point of finding it a bit hard to get back to routes'. 'Because really, Maureen, there is no reason for these silly bouts now. No Palace to fuss him, no Garden to pest him, no silly sixpence here to agitate him, and all very smooth - not even Tod a constant thorn'. She adds 'but these bouts have tended to reoccur this year about every 4 to 5 weeks, and I rather dread the third week in June (like a woman's Robert) in case the urge returns'. Of the Bicknell's recent visit, 'he literally never stopped talking, just like my old Victor Gollancz - one's mind was reeling!... He kept asking Moper to drive around Spain with him - can you see Moper?? And Spain of all places. That greasy food! And ghastly non routes, and heat, and flies!' Sir Victor Gollancz: (1893 - 1967) British publisher. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I wonder if there was any "encounter" in London?", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 31st May 1961, one page letter, to Mr & Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen & Bim') 'You may not be suprised to hear the visit to London was a failure, he had to have his "nips" of whiskey to keep going, so returned home feeling ill, and has been in poorish shape since, and I fear most of this is because of my going away with Kits after Whitsun... I wonder if there was any "encounter" in London? Cant help feeling there was, which added to the trouble'.'Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"General Browning indisposed", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 16th August 1961, two page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') a harrowing letter on her husband Sir Frederick Browning's alcoholism. 'Unfortunately, the worst has happened, and Moper began to work himself up to a blind about a couple of days before they arrived. I had specially not invited Peter this time remembering Christmas, but it was of no avail. By Sunday he was slipping out and buying whiskey from the pub down Polmear hill and hiding it in the back kitchen, and by Sunday evening absolutely "out". Bed, and of course the sailing of the Jeanne d'Arc cancelled for Regatta (which Tessa had come to crew for) and the inevitable excuses to rest of crew and the Yacht club, "General Browning indisposed". I thought bed would do the trick, but to my horror he got out of bed on Monday night, when we were istening to T.V. and found the only two bottles of wine that had not been locked up, and wolfed one bottle of red wine that night, and the bottle of white wine at breakfast yesterday morning'. Daphne continues 'Moper's age group and his terribly tricky psychological make-up make him the most difficult type of alcoholic patient to treat. Going into a Home would almost kill him with misery, and I dont think I could bear it. On the other hand we cannot continue with this happening every month like a woman's Rib'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I cant think. Nor, I suppose, can he...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Mena, 21st January 1961, 'Bing', three pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') a frank and intimate letter about her husband's drinking and concerns about the lease renewal. 'I am so impressed by Bentons, it really is a crumb. Talk about Little Mena, I think its Greater Mena! I'm very glad you are settling so well, I really envy you, to think of your having your own place forever more'. 'Everything started off the New Year with doubt, altho, I seem to have escaped mumps, but Christmas not happy. (though lovely ham still continues well!) because Moper started to type on Christmas Eve, and went on until after New Year, with me in bed with steaming cold. Not just gay topping, but sneaking to the car and drinking half a bottle of whiskey sort of thing. Maureen, I could have wept with disillusion. There he had been so well for 12 months, and whether it was the sight of Peter, who tosses back his gin, as you know, or what, I cant think. Nor, I suppose, can he. But it just ruined my Christmas, with him all squiffy and with that wild look in the eye... So you can imagine I was damn glad when Christmas was over, but then had to face Moper's continued whisky swilling... And then, to crown it all (as Tod would say) came Dr Rashleigh's death, and that fool Graham saying on the telephone "Oh, I'm afraid I have not got the lease drafted yet"... it makes one so disheartened... What a moan, I am sorry... what I would like really would be to fly off to Switzerland or somewhere for a complete change... I cant possibly do such a thing at the moment. It is such a pity Moper does'nt ever want to go off on a jaunt anywhere, because it would do him good too, if only he would make the move. One does get so frightfully stale never budging from the monotonous routes of day by day.. those little trips I used to take, with Pen Friend, or someone , did freshen one up so enormously, and what's more gave one new ideas from a writing perspective'. Daphne mentions her recent writing 'I kept busy in the autumn doing a T.C.W. thing, which was continuing and finishing the last novel old Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch ever wrote, and which Foy asked me to do which was great fun and a challenge'. 'Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning. Foy Quiller-Couch was Daphne's lifelong friend and daughter of British writer Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch (1863-1944). Their two riding trips to Bodmin Moor inspired the novel Jamaica Inn. Du Maurier completed Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch's unfinished novel "Castle Dor" (1961). (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Local honks will enjoy it. But high-brows rather despise it...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Mena, 27th March 1961, 'Bing', three pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') a good long letter detailing her struggles with he husband's drinking, her son's film career and on completing "Castle Dor". 'The thing is, all being well, I plan myself to snatch a week with Rab in Paris, flying over on the 10th until the 19th, which will be fun if I can leave here with an easy conscience. Noble old Shaw will come for a week to be with Moper. The thing is, that I went up on March 9th for a couple of days to the flat, to see Rab's film he was showing and when I got back home the usual story - Moper had taken to Mr Gordon and Mr Haig. He was so bad that on returning from a yacht-club meeting Martin Luther had to drive behind him all the way home, in case he went into a ditch... He had no worries, and no single thing to make him do it, but I think he had guilt because he felt perhaps it was awful T.N.Ning not to go up to see the film, tho' I said Kits would understand... I must say, although the story was not very original and the actors amateur... he had photographed and directed the thing jolly well and I did feel very proud of him. It was an awful pity Moper was not there... but any visit to London seem so fatal for him. Though as it turned out, staying behind was fatal too'. Daphne continues 'its rather funny, M.L. told Moper he didn't do enough or take enough exercise, and asked why he did'nt put on old jeans and paint his own boats... Moper was obviously very offended! And I've noticed ever since he has gone about like an old man of 90, rather bent, and puffing and blowing as if he had heart disease... I'm afraid there is this queer sort of hypochondriac thing in him that has to be "ailing" - because really his physical health seems to be so good, and as I told you before, he eats jolly well. I sometimes think if we were turned out of here and had to build our own house it would do him good'. Of her writing; 'did I ever tell you what I have been working on the autumn past? I think I did. Foy asked me to continue and finish her father's manuscript, and I've done it... the Ladies Home Journal will take it to put in their September issue... and I cant tell you the pleasure is has been for me to do this. Such gratitude and happiness on her part (she is delighted with the story too) and rather different from my children who grumble over their Trusts and take them for granted! It was great fun doing the book, and trying to make it as the old man would have wanted it, though I had not a clue what he meant to do. The only waine thing is that Spencer Curtis Brown, who has just read it, says "Q's first half is so slow compared to mine, and I feel I have speeded up the book too much! It's all about the Fowey river and district in the 1860's. Local honks will enjoy it. But high-brows rather despise it T'is a "romantic" tale!''Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning. Foy Quiller-Couch was Daphne's lifelong friend and daughter of British writer Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch (1863-1944). Their two riding trips to Bodmin Moor inspired the novel Jamaica Inn. Du Maurier completed Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch's unfinished novel "Castle Dor" (1961). (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"The wretched thing is that all the family have backed out for Christmas...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Mena, 9th December 1961, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') an update letter on the problems of Christmas and Trusts. 'the wretched thing is that all the family have backed out for Christmas - the first time in the 18 years we've been at Mena - the Zulus feel its too far to sweat down from Grimsby, with pug puppies in tow, plus children, and pug dogs, and a new German girl. Flave, who was to have come with A and R, had now backed out, and Kits insists on being at his Aldeburgh lair! I must say, I see all their points, now they have their own country domains, it's different if they were cooped up in London. Anyway, I have threatened to drag Moper and Bib to Flave instead, who seemed to think she could cope if we went to them, but I still wonder if Moper would really face it. But to sit solemnly to no turkey and no Tree here -because it would be pointless the have a Tree with no family, and a big turkey for two persons is more than I could stand - it's such a very long weekend, that't the trouble. Anyway, the thing is you had better hold back on sending your routes ham, if you were thinking of sending it, because we should never get through it on our own'. Of her son Christian Browning 'I still wish, tho', he had not left No. 100 for the lair in Pavillion road, which sounds such a dive, and not a bit healthy, a bath in the bedroom, and very hugga-mugga. Very different from the healthy sea-view at Aldeburgh. I am hoping when he has finally recovered he will get a job again, but you know what it is, having come into that Trust, he feels there is No Call to sweat his guts, and meantime amused himself trying to write scripts - tho I may say My Apple Tree was cliffed weeks ago as being too difficult!'. She continues 'I hope to get down to a book after New Year, providing everyone keeps well and there are no worries. But it's rather madding having to depend on research being done in France for me, and not getting there myself'. Daphne is referring to the research for her novel "The Glass-Blowers" (1963).(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Terribly sorry about the dissolving of Nipper II...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Menabilly Par Cornwall, 29th October 1961, 'Bing', two pages, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen'), a touching letter where Daphne consoles her friend 'I am so terribly sorry about the dissolving of Nipper II. It really is shocking luck, as I thought you would go full time, but its a good job the medicos have got on to the cause, and by giving you a scrape lets hope they can clean the "area" up (!) and all will be set for a more hopefully go. I expect this is the cause of many miscarriages, and people don't realise it, and perhaps go on having them and never seek advice.' She updates Maureen on her family having recently spent time with her daughter Flavia. 'I must say, she has a very splendid mansion, about the size of Bentons, but not nearly so attractive and jam-along from the outside, but more like a prep-school! But she has done it up very well inside, much as you have done, with lovely carpets and curtains etc (tho' not made by herself!).(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I have to say I give up my profession as an author", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', one page, Menabilly Par Cornwall, 16th August 1961(?), to Mr Monty Baker-Munton ('Dearest Bim'), Daphne requests advice on her accountant Richard Pegler's suggestion she set up a company. 'The point is, never again will I make "big money" to warrant the change, and turn myself into a Company. Also, I have to say I "give up my profession as an author" which seems so phony. It's such an obvious tax dodge... I can't see how the Tax chaps would swallow the fact of me writing for a Company that was really myself'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Trouble was that Moper was, and is, on the bottle again", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', two pages, Mena, 20th February 1961, to Mrs Baker-Munton ('Dearest Maureen'), 'the trouble was that Moper was, and is, on the bottle again - all due to his 24 hours in London... in that short time must have soaked. I know he lunched with Jim Orr at the Berkeley, which probably started the rot'. The letter continues 'he has been completely squiffy ever since, and stinking of whisky. I cant find any, so he obviously has it hidden. My fear is that he will make a balls at his Civil Defence meetings... and it is so shaming and awful'. Daphne states there will have to be 'some sort of show-down. You see, he is so much better in himself. No nerves, or depression, and eats well, etc, its sheer bloody-mindedness, I really think, or just fearful weakness, cant refuse a drink if offered. It's impossible to go round with him as if I were a keeper, especially as he hides his liquor - it would mean going to the bog with him, to watch every movement'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Rather a pointer to my lack of a menacing life to be going on holiday with my married daughter!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 28th April 19??, two page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') an amusing letter about her forthcoming holiday plans and family news. 'Rather a pointer to my lack of a menacing life to be going on holiday with my married daughter! Like Grace Kelly's mother, and I ought to have a bag of knitting with me. It's all so suitable for a 50th birthday.' Of her daughter, 'Flave looking very pretty, but going through such a young-married-conventional phase, I think, but dont tell anyone. Just an echo of her well-brought-up rather solemn Alastair, with her original personality swamped. Perhaps it doesn't matter. If she'd gone on the stage she'd be in sandals living with a married actor, so maybe all is for the best.' Of her son Christian, 'the holidays are a bit exhausting without Noddy (whom rumour has it, has gone to Singapore) because Bing is sole dog's body, the worst core is having to kick a football into a net over and over again (no wonder I've rushed off to have a blood-count) and watching variety of T.V. balancing a plate of supper on my lap and spilling everything, and thirdly having to listen to very noisy Rock' And Roll on the gramophone in his bedroom until nearly mid-night - this is the grown-up equivalent of "The Night"! Wait and see what you have to endure with Kristen. Noddy was a local girl who lived near by and a close friend of Daphne's son Christian. Kristen Baker-Munton is Maureen's young son. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Cannot in future be blamed for being a dreary authoress!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. 'Bing', one page, 70 Whitelands House, S.W.3., 19??, to Mr & Mrs Baker-Munton ('Dearest Maureen & Bim'), 'I have served up the tastiest little sups, so cannot in future be blamed for being a dreary authoress! and I am set to go ad lib, so you might have to spread this! Moper rather quiet. Wind out of sails? I don't know'. Daphne refers to her husband Lieutenant-General Sir Frederick Browning (1896 - 1965) as 'Moper'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Get tired doing mental work...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', two page letter, Mena, 31st March 19??, to Mrs Baker-Munton ('Dearest Maureen'), Daphne updates Maureen on her health and household matters, 'I feel more rested, but although O.K. out of doors, or walking, get tired doing mental work and accounts. (Nervous exhaustion!).(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Rather nanny having a night alone in Rome", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, Easter Saturday, one page, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dear Maureen'), Daphne sends Maureen sympathy as she's due to have a wisdom tooth out. 'I was fifteen when I had all my 4 wisdom out, with ether, at home, and it was psychological politics because I came round weeping and crying for my Daddy! (Who was touched, needless to say...). She continues 'I had a lovely change of air and change of mood on my little, or too brief, "hol". It was fun and rather nanny having a night alone in Rome (all alone in a restaurant!)... No tourists, a very comfortable room in quiet hotel, and lovely pottery strolls in the old hill town, beeding at churches etc'. Unfortunately Daphne 'returned to find rather poor form, having been shocking when I left... and near to collapse when I arrived'.She confides that her husband Sir Frederick Browning had deteriorated to the point that 'Sometimes I see nothing ahead but an institution and its too appalling to contemplate'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

Daphne du Maurier: (1907-1989) British Author, vintage signed and inscribed Christmas greetings card, with colour image of Menabilly to front, signed 'Moper and Bing' in her hand and inscribed 'a "honky" card but good of the house! Another rejuvenated one which you can display!'(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Then is'nt it the Scrubs for poor old Bing?", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 3rd March 1960, two page letter, to Mr & Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Bim & Maureen') thoughts on financial affairs and family news. Of her son Christian Browning, 'he is now working for Associated Rediffusin, and rushing about with a microphone asking teen agers if they are virgin' Daphne continues, 'weather has been typical for Mena in winter, muggy and damp with endless gales'. On financial matters 're the Veteran lolly - if it is untouched by the Inland Rev, the sum will be so big (£120?000?) that I would have thought half could be invested, safely, and the rest doled out where it's needed... poor old Tess has the lowest figure in the children's Trusts, and one would like to give her a few thou'. 'I'm sure the first thing is to see what happens when the lolly arrives, and if it's all taken! Then is'nt it the Scrubs for poor old Bing?'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I shall "bask" with any luck...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 19th April 1960, one page letter, to Mr Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Bim') update letter on activities over Easter. 'Tell Maureen he roped in old Eddie Fitzclarence to act in it as an old dope magnate, and Viv as the gangster's moll. Apparently they love doing it! Moper has gone off the the boat today to get it ready for the season. I shall "bask" with any luck, having really cleared up and finished my book in time for Easter'. The book referred to here is 'Castle Dor' (1961) the unfinished final novel by Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch which du Maurier completed at his daughter Foy's request.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"It is much better to have parents with child slightly out of earshot...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 27th April 1960, two page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') outlining plans for Maureen's forthcoming visit. 'Yes of course you must bring Kristen, you could not dump him without you for a fortnight - but the only snag from your point of view is that Moper and I are firm about when people bring a child or children, they must sleep in the Zulu room and have the child either in Flave's room next door, or even in the little room that opens from Zulu (if the child might be nervous). Its not that I think that Kristen for one moment would leap about with Muddy boots on Little Arthur bed, but it is much better to have parents with child slightly out of earshot (for Moper) and to use the other rooms whose carpets dont need so much attention'. Daphne continues 'I met Colin Wilson, he is very nice. Not a bit homo, and not I would say very obsessed with them really. I liked the Ritual book very much, he sent me a copy'.The book referred to here is 'Ritual in the Dark' (1960) a murder mystery based on Jack the Ripper by British author Colin Wilson (1931-2013) who was also published by Victor Gollancz.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Branwell apparently took laudenum, but quite a lot of people did in those days...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly, 24th July 1960, two page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') on her trip to Italy with her son Christian Browning (Boo) and on the Bronte family. 'Boo and I had an amusing if exhausting time in Italy, its not really my idea of rest to rush from place to place, doubled up in a sports car, but he wanted to see Venice and Rome, so far apart, and so we had to dash around'. 'Boo was an amusing companion, but her anti-culture, so that he took not the slightest interest in old buildings, or historical doings, or churches, or any of the things that make Italy so beautiful... Boo wanted to "shop" all the time, or anyway window-gaze, and I find this a fearful Tell Him! Especially as gramaphone records are his favourite buy, which he could get in the King's Road!' She continues 'he drove superbly... not put off by Continental signs, or anything, and did not go too fast until we got on one very good autostrade, with no-one but ourselves on it, and then he let his Austion Healey rip. It seemed very fast to me, though I wasn't nanny, and afterwards he said "Do you know what we were doing?" "No," I said, and he laughed "110!" (Dont tell Moper!)'. Daphne continues 'you read the wrong "Anne Bronte". The Life by my rival, Winifred Gerin, is much better. Anne's novels are good, but not so gripping as Jane Eyre or Wuthering Heights. Branwell apparently took laudenum, but quite a lot of people did in those days hoping to ward off consumption, or for tooth-ache, and one doesn't really know how much he took. That's the trouble with his life, so much is still sumise... one longs for family letters, which would reveal more'.Daphne wrote a biography on Branwell, "The Infernal World of Branwell Brontë" (1960), and had become aware that she was not the only one undertaking such a project. Winifred Gerin OBE, (1901 - 1981) British Biographer published her biography on Branwell Brontë the following year. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"He mutters that he is rather put off by such stories...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 4th August 1960, one page letter, to Mr Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Bim') regarding Bim's health complaint and medical oddities. 'I hope they straighten out your queer shadow before long - there are dozens of tests these days to find out if anything is brewing, like testing your spit and so on, and even plunging a sort of wire down your throat and bringing it up again'. Daphne continues 'a cousin of mine (by marriage) had a thing on her lung that turned out to be a twin-that-never-was - she should have been twins, and the other twin never grew but remained in embryo on her lung, and was not discovered until middle life!! It was removed, and she is now married to an American millionaire! Well... well... (He mutters that he is rather put off by such stories, and would prefer to keep his shadow to himself)'. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"If its not me husband its me dog!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 18th August 1960, two page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') update letter on the family and her concerns for the health of Maureen's husband and son. 'Very sorry to hear, via Moper, that you think the Reliable One is brewing for mumps. Still, I think at that age he wont be much affected, its later on in the 'teens that their bollocks swell up'. Daphne continues, 'all well, so far, with us, but the invasion of Spences and Nanny Tower with Rupart begins tomorrow,, and with Tod fluttering like a hen and Esther dashing up and down... Its so much better than having Moper as he was last year that a boiling of Nurses does'nt matter! My trouble now will be the Pippity's sour looks if I pick up Rupert. I know the sort of face he will put on, and he will hump his back. (If its not me husband its me dog!). 'Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning. (All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. 'Bing', 11th October 19??, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, ('my dear Maureen'), colour postcard from Kintail Mountains, Scotland, 'scenery stupendous but it is raining every day'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Probably both of us will be carried feet first from Mena...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 9th November 1960, two page letter, to Mr Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Bim') 'Our own news is very happy, in that old Doctor Rashleigh has granted me a new lease of Mena for 21 years, but, rather naturally, with a break at 14 years (I s'pose if we are too old and feeble we might be glad to move out then, and for Philip to come in) but with the house we have to take on woods, grounds, etc as well, and be landlord to the buy at the walled garden, and to Esther and Henry at their cottage, and to old Mrs Phillips down at Southcott in the woods. So you will see, it is quite a commitment!' Daphne continues, 'however, such a relief that probably both of us will be carried feet first from Mena, and do not have to face change in two years time'.In fact Daphne would only retain her beloved Menbilly for a further nine years before the lease expired in 1969 and was not renewed.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Awful visions of dainty cakes on doilies!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 12th November 1960, three page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') a touching letter regarding Maureen's recent miscarriage and family updates. 'I cant tell you how sorry I am about the Nipper 2. First, I was so suprised about hearing of the bal, for I remember when we discussed fresh bal in May or whenever it was, you were not very keen to embark again. But I suppose that once launched it became exciting and lovely, and it was a horrible blow to find it "came away-like". Daphne continues, 'I'm glad the new house sounds like working out O.K. Certainly the kitchen will be glorious. I often wish we could make a livable kitchen out of ours, but it does'nt exactly lead itself... Of course when I look round, its frightful what ought to be done. But I do hate having "the men" in the house, and all those cups of tea going full blast'. Of her husband Sir Frederick Browning 'certainly Moper's last 2 day jaunt to London bore no drinkie or nerve ill effects'. On Christmas, 'the Zulus invade us this year, also bringing a new German girl (royal, I think) who copes with the children'. On finding help, 'I'm sure you shouldn't attempt to do everything yourself, and I would think there would be more of what one calls "the rough" at the new house than at Potash. (I think I'd be better at "the rough" than "the smooth". Awful visions of dainty cakes on doilies!).(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Its like being at school and working for an exam with a prize at the end of term!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. Mena, 15th March 1960, 'Bing', one page, to Maureen Baker-Munton, ('Dearest Maureen') and update letter on her husband's health and on her writing, with handwritten annotation. 'Moper is very "off colour" again today, and I am hoping that it is not his old nerve thing coming on as a post-pleurisy complication. Martin Luther will be in tomorrow, and I shall get him to go over him carefully, and definitely put down his foot about a possible visit to London. After all what did he retire for, but to stop these endless efforts to be well enough for things in London? He certainly could not get through a day there in his present state. I think he may be "bobbing" on this do on Thursday... Had he been 100% he would have crumbed and enjoyed showing himself off, but I suspect he is afraid it may mean a lot of hanging about and therefore getting tired'. Of her writing, 'I'm trying hard to get the last part of Branwell done, and then can ease off a bit - though the "going over" will probably mean a lot of re-writing, and it's very putting off that the Yorkshire woman Miss Winifred Gerin is also doing a Life of him, it's like being at school and working for an exam with a prize at the end of term!'. Daphne remarks of her housekeeper Esther Rowe 'I shall try and see if Esther can be coaxed into a little light spring cleaning! She is very sweet and obliging, but not a hefty "rough" worker like old Glad, and between ourselves the house is filthy (my room and Moper's especially!). Daphne is referring to her non fiction book on the Brontë sisters' brother "The Infernal World of Branwell Brontë" (1960). Winifred Gerin (1901-1981) English biographer was a noted scholar on the subject of the Brontë's.'Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"Look out the authoress is going to pull a fast one!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 2nd September 1960, three page letter, to Mr Monty Baker-Munton, ('My dear Bim') detailed letter on financial concerns and her grandchildren. 'Nanny Tower insists on catching an 8.6 train from Par that morning... as she refuses to drive back with Alastair's soldier servant, whom she dislikes!' 'It should not affect your going down to get brek (she should be gone by 7.30) but she is a formidable woman and fearfully noisy, and will probably wake us all in the stampede downstairs'. She continues 'its been a bit chaotic with Spences and Nanny and young Magnus, plus our Rupert and his nanny, and I must say it is a bit of a sweat having a creche in the house... Moper has stood the invasion well, and is now happily glued to the Olympic Games'. Of her tax affairs 'owning to that bloody back-dating of Super tax will have to find a very substantial sum to pay off Super Tax on Jan 1st next year, and on Jan 1st the year after'. 'The London Inspector passed the thing O.K. from the Co's point of view, but asked for the address of my Inspector down here, which seemed a bit onerous, as though he was going to write and say "Look out the authoress is going to pull a fast one!". Further handwritten annotation to top right.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. 'Bing', to Mr & Mrs Baker-Munton, colour postcard of Aldeburgh seafront, 'I have marked Kits abode with an X but it is much nicer in reality...'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, A.L.S. 'Bing', 24th June 1960, to Mr & Mrs Baker-Munton, black and white postcard from Rome, 'Kits enjoying everything but complains if we do not stay in hotels of Savoy standard all the time, where he can get the best cigars, and he spends his time gazing in jewellers shop windows refuses to enter a church or historic building!' she continues 'I wish (he) was bit more culture loving!'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"I get moans and tears, but no confidences, and no sort of conversation...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 29th January 1959, four page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') an intimate letter where Daphne details her concerns regarding her husband Sir Frederick Browning's confidants. 'I do not hang on to an ex-lover and pour our troubles in an emotional fashion, which is quite obviously what he does do. The more he does this, and she listens and consoles, the more impossible it becomes for me to do the same thing as his wife. I get moans and tears, but no confidences, and no sort of conversation. I am quite certain that the thing of their relationship is what makes such a barrier between Moper and myself. His feeling of guilt makes his silence'. She continues 'naturally, one has friends who are vaguely menacing, or who have been menacing, and one brightens up when one sees them, but it's the silence about this that is so morbid. And why can't they lunch out, or even dine out instead of meeting in that hole-and-corner flat? For two pims I would invite her down to stay, and see how it went!!'(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"A shit of a man couldn't care less!", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 5th February 1959, three page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') a clear headed and tolerant letter about her husband Sir Frederick Browning's health troubles and their causes. 'In fact, for 62 he is a good specimen... he is medically called "manic depressive" and not bad enough for a Home'. Daphne continues, the doctor 'wants to keep him balanced between that "Boy Browning can do anything" attitude (which is the manic phase) and "I'm no use for anything, I've failed in life," (which is the depressive phase)'. Of his dalliances, 'No harping back or recriminations over anything that is past. If humanly possible get the footing between them as friendly as possible, and as jam along. She will appreciate, I'm sure, that the more hang-dog and guilty Moper feels about their relationship, the more impossible it is to get the whole thing in perspective. There seems to be no earthly reason why they should not continue to be good friends and meet and write, but to resume the old relationship on a furtive sort of basis just won't work. The guilt would make the drinking start, and once that starts everything goes to pot'. She continues, ' you know, I went through this so much with my old Puxley man years ago (when I was taking the Garden part!) and honestly, it was not until I stopped seeing him and stopped the endless letter writing, and got down to Christmas card level and a few letters, that he stopped drinking and recovered. I did not do a "this is the end" thing, but by not meeting and sending letters, the thing really died a natural death. I've no objection to the Garden knowing about this, if she doesn't know already (no need for names) but it might show that I am not without sympathy for their friendship, having been in an identical position myself, and indeed a worse one, everything going on under his roof, to start with. To a fundamentally nice man, which Moper is and so was Puxley, the burden of guilt is too strong to bear. they can't be lighthearted about it, and so they drink to forget. A shit of a man couldn't care less!'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"After all, better take out a girl of 17 then a hardened tart...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Mena, 27th February 1959, one page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') Daphne ruminates on travelling and outlines her approach to marital indiscretions. 'I wish women didn't look silly on their own in cities. Either old tarts hoping for a man, or old governesses sight-seeing. I shall be the old governess. It's rather a queer thought, bit I don't think I've ever been actually alone in a foreign country before!' Of an old flame, 'It would have been just before the Coronation time around 51-52, when I was having rather a fling with Frank. But it was such a lighthearted thing. Not serious. I'm afraid Moper's trouble has not been having a series of light-hearted things, which would not have done him or anyone harm, but instead had such a long drawn-out steady sentimental routes with Garden. However, everyone is different in their make up, and there is is'. Of her son Christian Browning, 'I hope Boo isn't now going to start being silly over his pick up!... I think Boo is shrewd enough not to want his pocket touched. After all, better take out a girl of 17 then a hardened tart, or some awful pansy'. Added in the post script, 'but it's my first break for domesticity since I went with Tessa to St Paul May 1957, and we know what happened then, he met sixpence'.'Moper' was Daphne's pet name for her husband Sir Frederick Browning.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)

"The press might really think there had been some row with Prince P...", Daphne du Maurier: (1907 - 1989) British Author, T.L.S. 'Bing', Menabilly Par Cornwall, 11th April 1959, one page letter, to Mrs Maureen Baker-Munton, nee Luschwitz, ('Dearest Maureen') detailing the announcement of her husband Sir Frederick Browning's retirement from royal service. 'Moper keeping very well (touch wood) through the rather trying business of the retirement being announced. One of those things I am sure he had been bodding on for a long time (psychological unconscious loss of face) but now he has faced it it really has passed quite easily. Thank goodness Luther and I urged him to get it over, as if he had left the announcement to the last moment then the press might really think there had been some row with Prince P. As it is, its accepted as quite a natural thing, and no hoo-ha'.(All rights are reserved by The Chichester Partnership and no written materials may be reproduced in part or in full without the express prior written permission of The Chichester Partnership c/o Curtis Brown Group Ltd)