The summer holidays are well and truly over and children across the country have returned to school, some full of excitement and others with trepidation. Kyffin attended Tre-arddur House School on Anglesey before joining his elder brother Dick as a pupil at Shrewsbury School in 1931. In this undated letter, signed John, the closesness between both brothers is evident. Kyffin reassures his parents that all his well and even includes a plan of his study and bedroom at the new school. Thanks to Will for finding this photo of Kyffin writing at his desk.
Dear Mummy & Daddy
I think I have settled down all right, thank you so much for the fruit.
I have not spent a 1d, as I have got all I want, & there is nothing much in the shop.
Nearly everyone wears tails, Gale, Shimwell, & Burt another new boy.
We went for a run yesterday, & it was about 5 miles.
Dick is awfully decent, he does every thing for me, & Storey is jolly decent.
Please thank Mrs Ingrams!! for the toffe
Mitford has got all my money except 2/6, I think it is best.
I am in the same form as Butter, & we don’t half rag.
I have written to Aunt Mamie, & to Jameson
Some of the boys here seem, awfully small, & look about 10 or 11.
I sleep between Dick & Gale & opposite Boddinton, who does a lot for me, in the way of giving me books for class.
My top hat is jolly decent.
Gale wears tails & a three year old collar.
Dick has just been heating some beans for me.
Royds is quite a decent fellow, except when he shouts “Dowls”!!
I hope you are keeping quite well, I am very happy.
With lots of love
from
John
Sian Bowyer