John & Patty - Great Casterton, March 1820


Ronald Blythe deep in conversation with David and Roger Rowe in the garden of the Crown Inn, Great Casterton just opposite the church in which Clare and Patty were married in March 1820. David sang two of Clare's poems -'Maid of Walkherd' and 'The Courtship' as part of the presentation of poems, songs and readings in the Church. 

A womans is the dearest love
Theres nought on earth sincerer
The leisure upon beautys breast
Can any thing be dearer

I saw her love in beauty’s face
I saw her in the rose
I saw her in the fairest flowers
In every weed that grows

(from 'The Courtship')


Oh!  And here is a photocopy of the Clare / Turner Marriage Certificate from that memorable day in March 1820.  Notice "with the consent of" has been scored out, her father refused to attend as Patty was 6 months pregnant.    With the publication of "Poems Descriptive of Rural Life and Scenery" in January of the same year, Clare was the new sensation.  With grateful thanks to Clare descendant Pat Jones.

No comments: