I have said before that you never quite know what manner of exiting things are going to turn up in your email in box.  Far too often it's stuff you would not choose to allow your wife or servants to read, but every once in a while up pops a genuine email that contains an unexpected surprise.  It's like those old jamboree bags fondly remembered from childhood that sometimes had hidden away inside a small toy that set you in a good mood for the rest of the day and made the other gunge in the bay almost palatable.

My reference to Arthur Ransome a few days ago prompted such an email from a relative of Nat Hunt.  We know that AR fished at Horton, but until now I have never seen tangible proof that he fished the Tarn.  Here is an email and attachment that dispels any lingering doubt.

Hello Ian,
 
Further to your notes of 17 August, you may be interested in the attached copy of the Christmas Card (home -made) sent by AR to NH in about 1931.   Another similar card contains the following comment;
 
"Hurry up with the gaff, Hunt, L. Ness monster this time"
 
All sounds very exciting!
 
AR also sent NH a copy of AR's book "Rod and Line" on the occasion of NH's birthday in Nov 1931.
 
Best Wishes,
 
John G




Anyone familiar with Ransome's books will instantly recognise the style

Thanks, John I'm in your debt.

Ian