BMS/CWK/95/22a/14

Envelope and letter from Bessie Kaye to her parents. Sent from Old Hall, Newnham College, Cambridge.

10 Nov 1918

From: 1918 To: 1918

Thanks parents for letter and responds to items raised in it. Discusses the rumours about an armistice being signed. 'On Thursday there were persistant rumours that the armistice was signed; people were cheering in the streets, several of the colleges had champagne dinners and there was much noise everywhere. Everybody sat up late discussing affairs, but of course next morning it was found to have been premature. Still, it is difficult to believe - impossible to believe - that it is not really time at last and that authentic news will come tomorrow.......The news this morning was absolutely stunning; I never thought the Kaiser would abdicate. These events are too great to be grasped, they are absolutely bewildering.' At College, Miss Steven forbade once more all meetings, debates, dancing etc., owing to flu. The flu has decreased, not one case in Old Hall for a long time, so everyone fed up about events being cancelled. Has been round a museum with Professor Chadwick. Went to a lecture at Clare College and fell asleep, due to the hot weather. Has been to rowing coaching. The students have started waiting on each other at evening meals. Explains how this is done. Has been to a student representative committee meeting to discuss what should be done when the armistice is signed. Decided to ask Miss Steven to have a service in College Hall, also to have a dinner all together with speeches and toasts. Had been to tea with Mr. & Mrs. Wedd and an elderly New Zealand major who had a DSO and MC. Walked to church at Coton with Helen Drummond.

item

Kaye, Bessie,
Steven,
Chadwick,
Wedd,
Drummond, Helen

family correspondence, Cambridge Newnham College, World War One, influenza, Cambridge Clare College, rowing, Coton