24th July 1943

Saturday
Got in early.  Busy morning, no lunch until quarter to 2, then only milk and sandwich at a milk-bar.

On duty tonight.  Went on the roof to watch the “holidays-at-home” dancing on the Holly Trees lawn.  The band consisted of six soldiers, one an officer, playing raucus dance music into an amplifier, which further distorted the hideous sounds they produced.  Great difficulty to get the dancing started, most of the huge crowd being content to watch.  Lots of old folks sitting with their backs to the lawn, apparently oblivious of the row.  Lots of squawling children romping on the grass.   

A “quick step” was played, but only 4 couples attempted it.  The band leader then said, “Alright, boys and girls, we’ll try something else,” and they began to play a dreadful dreary tune which managed to induce about twelve couples to take to the “floor”.

In Holly Trees field was a Punch & Judy, a pathetic little roundabout, some swings and a mat-slide.  Big crowds strolling about.

Noticed there were no Americans dancing.   

Mr. Warren was talking this morning about the huge prices for Suffolk horses at the last sale – up to 700 gns for 4 yr. old mare.

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