We are well into series three (of six) of Downton Abbey.
Thomas, a footman to begin with, has wangled a job as Lord Grantham’s valet. He is the most interesting character in the soap; usually devious and impassive but sometimes surprises by showing emotion. I wonder what will become of him? Don’t tell me.
There is such a strong similarity between Thomas and the sinister Barrett in The Servant that I assume the former is based on the latter. They even look alike. This discovery has led me to re-read Dirk Bogarde’s autobiography.
I have given the first volume a miss, as I remember finding it disappointing, and am enjoying Snakes and Ladders which opens with his service in the war. I can’t get away from the war.
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Bertie came back from a week at The Ralph yesterday. Antibiotics didn’t heal the infection in his paw, in fact it got worse, because his immune system is suppressed after his illness earlier this year. Different antibiotics didn’t work either so on Wednesday afternoon his “finger” as the surgeon called it, and I suppose he knows unless he was talking down to us, was amputated. It has been sent for a biopsy in case it was more than an infection. He was very excited to see us when a veterinary nurse brought him out to the reception at The Ralph; a week is a long time to be away.
He is glad to be home and is happily hopping around on three legs. It will be about six weeks before he can go out for more than a few minutes as it is essential the wound does not get infected. He is on a complex regime of medication including three paracetamol a day. The red bandage is covering where he was injected.
Poor Bertie and in this heat.
I’m watching Downton again for the second time and enjoying it all immensely – it’s just wonderfully written and Julian Fellowes has brilliantly portrayed each character. The film following this series is good too, and I can’t wait to see the second film now out and partly set in the French Riviera.
So hope dear Bertie’s “paw” heals quickly. He’s had tough time of it recently – as have you and Robert worrying about him.
Dear Christopher and Robert,
We are so sorry to hear about Bertie’s paw problems. He looks as if he is being very brave. Candy and Floss send their commiserations.
Love Camilla and Andrew
Poor Bertie has been having a rough year – and you and Robert in turn. I do hope the amputation has done the trick and that the infection clears up quickly now.
Poor Bertie! He has had a rotten run of it, I hope this is the last and I’m sure he won’t miss one ‘finger’ as dogs adapt so quickly.
2022 certainly seems to becoming poor Bertie’s annus horribilis.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery.