Edmund C H Mardell and Bobby Bear

Have I ever told you how much I love my job? It does have the odd downside, like struggling to find new and interesting things to sell. Then again, that can be looked at as an upside as it means I get to spend many happy hours searching for those elusive treasures. However, the very best part of my job is the happiness it gives to others which in turn brings joy to me. Just last week I received this letter from a lovely lady called Judy. 



Dear Barbara,

I just wanted to let you know that I received the wonderful book "Bobby Bear Annual'. Thank you so much for that.

I just thought I would let you know a little story about one of the contributors in it. One of the stories is called 'Scissors and Spells' written by Edmund C H Mardell. He was the older brother of a very good friend of mine here in Australia. I have done some research on him, and that’s how I found your book.

‘Kitty’ (Kathleen) came over here in the early 60's (I think....) and 'Eddie' died shortly after that. She has never returned to England, and only had one photo of Eddie. She knew he had written a few stories and poems before, but had no idea of this story. You should have seen her face when she realized what she was holding! She now can hold  just a little bit more of her wonderful brother’s legacy.

So thank you so much for having this book, selling it to me, and sending it with such obvious care. You have made quite a few folks VERY happy. Thank you.

Kind Regards,

Judy

By the way, here is the photo of Edmund C H Mardell. Lovely, hey?

I was smiling from ear to ear when I read Judy’s message and replied with this;

Hello Judy,

Thank you so much for your email.  I love hearing stories like this.  Eddie was certainly very handsome and how young he looks in that photo.  

Would you mind if I included your email on the feedback page of my website and maybe on my blog?  Either way I'm very grateful to hear from you and thrilled I could play even a small part in the story.

Please pass on my best regards to your friend.

Best wishes, Barbara

This was Judy's response;

Hi Barbara,

You know, I think it would be wonderful to share the story and the photo. Kitty mentioned that Eddie had a daughter but they have lost touch over the years. It’s my opinion that people love to hear a wonderful story, and they would love to see your blog and feedback about the wonderful Eddie and his little sister Kitty. (She’s in her early 80’s now!) I will read her your letter, and when you get it all posted, I’ll print it out for her to have. She will love it.

Thank you for your kindness. Good luck to you!

Judy

There really are some wonderful people in the world, and I seem to be lucky enough to meet lots of them. Now I just hope someone remembers Eddie and Kitty and gets in touch. It would be amazing to reunite Kitty with her long-lost relatives.