Posted by Owen Roberts on September 04, 2006 at 16:28:52 from 194.201.78.141 user OwenRoberts.
In Reply to: Re: The Matrix; posted by Jock on September 04, 2006 at 08:49:28:
"There is a slight impression that there was once more money"
"Croquet lawns, tennis courts, stables, all disused. A once fashionable car."
It is possible that these changes, which could indicate a decline, may result from a change in enthusiasm or fashion.
It is possible that Bob Blackett was a keen tennis player. After his death, if no one else was interested, the courts may have gone out of use. Croquet was probably played less in the 1930’s.
In those days a new car every three years was not the norm. With the more rapid evolution of cars in those days a, say, 12 year old car would be seen as more dated than one today.
The blacksmith in WH bemoans the decline of horses except on farms, I think that they would have been many more disused stables in the area. Who would want a horse when they could have a car!
Mrs Blackett seems to have entertained frequently, judging by the mentions of when the Amazons were needed to act as hostesses.
It is possible that there was less money available after Bob Blackett died, but there was still enough to live well.