28th August 1941

Decided to go over to Horkesley tonight to see about rooms. Called at Baytree Cottage, which was advertised in the [Essex County] “Standard”. Rather a nice little place, obviously another of these small hall-type houses, but rather over restored. Macer did it some years ago, adding two rooms at the W. end. At the E. end are the original “solar” and kitchen, and there is an original doorway in the W. wall.

Two very fierce, firm ladies own the place. I was shown all over, and told I could have a very nice little room upstairs. But the terms? Three guineas a week, or £2-10 if I was away for weekends. Thanked them and left these rapacious sharks as hurriedly as I could.

Went down by the fruit farms, across the deep valley, and passed the Roses' house. Went on to Hill Farm, looking very smart under a new coat of paint. Unfortunately, there was nobody at home.

Along Langham Lane saw a team of horses turning into the yard at Park Farm. The fields all around are thick with traves of oats, wheat and barley, and the lovely little thatched cottages had lights twinkling in their windows.

At Colchester fed Bob, and called at home. A rather disappointing evening.

Baytree Cottage (now known as Baytrees) at Great Horkesley can be viewed here as it is currently for sale.