28th October 1937

28th October 1937

Sarvar to 27 Queen Square, Bath

Dear Madeleine

Many thanks for your letter. I have read your book and enjoyed it very much. I love the pictures in it. I think “Northanger Abbey” the best written and most amusing of all the Jane Austin books. Did you notice that in “Persuasion” your Queen Square is mentioned? I would love to see Bath, as I have read so much about it. But now 100 years have passed since Austin’s time and it is probably all changed. I have read so many old English books that I imagine England quite old fashioned and would probably be very much astonished of modern English life. I would love to go to England next year. But I don’t think I shall. I am learning English with Mary. “You are intoxicated by the exuberance of your own lolossity”. That is what she taught me, I am not quite sure as to the spelling. I am sorry the two little cousins are leaving tomorrow. They have stayed here for seven weeks. Miss Wright, their governess who is also here has grown fatter by 12 pounds, Mary too. They all seem to enjoy their food here. Hungarian food is very good indeed. We are as fat as ever, we are used to eat so much. I am very sorry to hear of your Aunt Eileen’s illness, I do hope she will recover soon. How is your Aunt Audrey? I remember them perfectly well. Give them my best regards when you happen to see them. Ludwig has gone to Germany to do his military service. Deidi is due to arrive in two days. Have you ever read any of Robert Hugh Benson’s books? He is a catholic and writes historical novels. I am sure they would do you good. I have just started reading “Come Rack, Come Rope”. I saw Burgtheater, the best German film of the year. It is called after the famous stage in Vienna and is about a young actor wanting a part and a famous old actor who helps him, the actors are Willy Eichberger, Werner Kraus and Hortense Rakey. Verner Kraus is marvellous. I saw him on the stage as King Lear. My love to you and all your family.

Loll