Wednesday 18 February 2009

knows all about 'footer' and white mice

In 1921, Gertie Maclean, 37 and part of the unmarried generation post-war, was a 'rock and a sport'. She loved children but didn't have any. She established Universal Aunts and the business took off instantly - her 'Aunts' chaperoned, looked after houses, nannied and were generally spunky. Here are some descriptions from the company's card index:
MISS PHYLLIS BECKETT
Age 30.
Young and sporty. Knows all about 'footer' and white mice. Guaranteed not to nag. Can slide down bannisters at a push. This lady will be one of our most popular Aunts and be in great demand.

MISS PANSY TRUBSHAWE
Age 32 (verging middle)
Understands cricket and foreign stamps as she has five brothers. Not much else. There will be a waiting list of preparatory school boys.

MISS HYACINTH PLUMMER
Thirties (late)
Can play Halma, Snakes & LAdders and tell moral stories. No doubt has a selection of modesty vests or chiffon roses for the front of her lower necklines.

Quite apart from anything else, these are great names. They are, basically, ready-made characters for anyone writing a novel set in the period.*

*Oops. When first posting this I forgot to mention that all this comes from the anecdotal goldmine Singled Out, by Virginia Nicholson.

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