THE BATHING SUIT 18th installment

This is a photo from album belonging to my husband’s other side… But it is in Canada, somewhere. Hunting scene.

Margaret left as planned on the 10.15 to Quebec, her 100 dollars sewn into her corset. The cars were overflowing with travellers from all parts, who were off to a once in a lifetime show and somewhat giddy with anticipation. Pickpockets were bound to be drawn to such a good natured crowd.

With Margaret gone, Marion was in charge at Tighsolas, not officially, but in charge all the same.

“The only thing I worry about, ” said Margaret to Marion, just before she left, “is that you don’t get your meals properly. You can’t be well unless you eat. Order meat from Pope’s.”

And she snatched her hat from the table. It was newly trimmed for the trip with violets and baby’s breath and a fat purple ribbon of satin. A horn sounded.Mr. Wales and his chauffeur had come to take her to the train in his motorcar. Margaret lifted the hat to her head and, then, as quickly let it drop. She’d carry it on her lap in the automobile.

“Get Flora to help. She turned to her youngest and smiled. She is only watching the Hill children half the day.

And see to it that she has what she needs for her trip. I may have forgotten things.”

And then she walked off but turned around remembering one more thing. “Oh and be sure to keep the cellar screens shut or the rats and mice will get in. ” Yes, we know. Bye mother. Give my love to Father,- Marion called out after her. “And the Prince” Flora added. She knew her mother was anxious to see these larger than life persons in the flesh. She thought the Prince of Wales a steady serious man and Sir Wilfrid was well known to be an honourary Scotsman.

Marion shut the door quickly.

In such heat, they hardly needed to eat hearty meals, Marion thought. But Mother worried so much about her children’s health, especially Flora, who was so thin and frail looking. And prone to colds. Well, weren’t they all.

But it was summer and already 70 degrees at 9 am. Soon, it would be too hot even for the filthy flies. Marion had her work cut out for her; she had to make Flora a bathing suit for her trip. (They hadn’t told Mother about Henry’s offer to drive her to the beach. Why worry her?)

For a bathing suit, Marion had already decided to adapt a pattern she had on hand for a tennis outfit, but use dark blue serge which was all the rage.(They would have to make a shopping excursion to Hudon’s in the morning). Bloomers, vest, an overskirt and blouse collar with 3 rows of white piping, sailor style. Modest while fashionable and flattering to young Flora who was very thin, still with a girl’s figure. Matching scarf for headwear.

Yes, she had her work cut out for her. She would likely miss the next evening’s dance at the Oddfellow’s Hall, in honour of the Prince’s Quebec visit (and as a consolation prize for those who couldn’t attend the celebrations in person.)

Marion smiled tightlipped as she contemplated the next two days. She was not upset. If there was anything Marion loved more than a dance, it was a challenging project with a tight deadline.