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[Page 14]
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Edwardes, at Knight's Bridge, and that proved to be the beginning of a friendship that was to me, a most beautiful possession. Through her I met people of whom I had read about but never expected to meet, and in meeting them and having the privilege of their friendship, I have realised just what English culture and its traditions stand for.
That first Xmas to me will ever be memorable. The receiption rooms were filled with interesting people, among whom were Princess Henry of Battenburg and the Hon. Harriet Phipps once lady-in-waiting to Queen Victoria, a sweetly gracious and charming personality. As I looked round at the beautiful decorations and the glowing fires that reflected everywhere their comforting glow, I felt in an enchanted land and that was further idealised when after tea a choral party surprised the guests. Starting from the foot of the stairs, singing as they came, they entered the drawingroom in the full tide of melody. We found that our hospitable hostess had expected us to remain for dinner, and the pleasure at being there, surrounded by brightness and comfort with congenial souls, just gave me a lump in my throat. It all seemed too wonderful, and looking back now I recall not only that evening but many subsequent ones when Herbert Crescent became to me just the most delightful "Haven of Refuge" it was possible to know. It became to me in very truth, a Home. For eight months I found my way there several times a week and there was a never varying welcome. My hostess's love and kindliness was reflected in the servants who as only well trained English servants can, indicated that their Mistress would wish me to remain even though she at the time was not at home. Through her the people of interest and charm that I met were numberless. Her husband had been in his life-time British Ambassador at Rome and Washington, her daughter lady-in-waiting to Queen Alexandra. Among those I recall are the Duchess of St. Albans, Lady Carnock (sister of Lady