Now Well, What’s Next?
My time in the convent allowed me to think of my circumstances; and my thoughts kept returning to Over Wyresdale, for I had no intention of returning to Holt Hall even if Veronica was there. I did not necessarily want to go back to Lower Green Bank Farm even if Mr Kidd would accept me, but I especially remembered Marshaw, and so set my sights on getting a place on that farm.
Getting an Assignment at Marshaw
How exactly I ended with a new assignment at Marshaw, I cannot now recall. But I think the I adopted a twofold approach. Having met Mr John Drinkall the farmer, I probably wrote expressing an interest in working for him. Remembering who I was and him needing a land girl, he said that he would accept me, providing I satisfied him of my farming abilities. I had no doubts about that. I also must have spoken to my WLA supervisor, who apart from being understanding and sympathetic was just as anxious as I was to get me back to duty. I think Mr John’s – as he was always known – respect for Mr. Kidd tipped the balance for me. Mr John knew that if I earned commendations for my willingness and aptitude for hill farm work from Mr Kidd who Mr John respected as a capable man, he knew I had been well taught, and so it was arranged I should work at Marshaw. The WLA supervisor whom I cannot remember, but who took the trouble to arrange this transfer is another person that I am grateful to.
And so after several enforced months of rest, and too many for me away from duty, on being passed as fit, I was able to get to Marshaw, resolutely putting Holt Hall and this distressing and painful event behind me.
My family owned Holt Hall Farm from the 1920s to the 1960s and I believe that Billy may be my father. It is very to read about from another perspective.
Very interesting read, especially about Holt Hall farm.