Letter From Gertrude Smith 1949

Ormlie
Napier
Nov 6th 49

My dear Constance

I have thought so much about you since that hurried visit you paid us. I am writing now because I feel really most distressed over you. Where one stops to think of the unselfish life you have led, dating back to your untold kindness to your many newly married girl friends.

It just seems so cruel that people don’t put themselves out to treat you as you have treated others. If you ever wish to be truly well, you simply must leave Woodville.

I know what your answer to that will be But I cant see why you couldnt visit your father as often as you should wish. One wouldnt suggest for one fleeting second to in any way neglect him. Probably if you werent on the spot, others

might appreciate you more.

George went into Royston in Thursday. The idea is that he is there for treatment. Hector & I went to see George 10 days ago. He was in bed looking very frail. But not so transparent as the last time we saw him.

Judy came back from her case at Khandallah on Friday & tomorrow goes to Whanakino to look after David & Joan & the horse whilst Moore & Rachel go to Nelson for their annual holiday. They leave on Tuesday. Olga & I took Hector to Whanakino last Sunday & he stayed till Friday to give a hand with the shearing. It was so good for him as he goes away so little these days.

Well, old Dear I hope you will consider what I have suggested –

With much love
Gertrude Smith