Last Photographs by Edwin Smith - Olive's memories

 

March 17th 1993

Thank you very much, dear Roy, for the prints. It is extraordinary that the film should have survived and just as extraordinary that you should have been there to develop and print it. The two photographs you have sent me move me very deeply, they so sharply revive all the events and emotions of the last months of Edwin's life. I never do forget them but now, looking at these pictures, it all seems to have happened only yesterday.

The photographs were not taken at Papworth, but about six weeks later. There were three wonderful days when Edwin felt better. He built the well and the arch leading from our garden into the field; and we drove to the Unwins at Helions Bumpstead for tea. It was the last time Edwin was able to leave the house.

I didn't remember that he took a camera, but the little temple in the photograph is the one he designed and built for the Unwins. The two doors lead to tiny dressing rooms for bathers, one for gents, one for ladies. Edwin was unable to supervise the final touches and I remember he was very pleased he was able to see the completed building. We passed spectacular fields of burning stubble on the way home and stopped to look at them.

I am delighted for you to borrow the camera, Roy, and I know you will do well with it. You are the only person to whom I would think of lending it.

I look forward very much to seeing you when you have time.

Love to you all,

Olly xx

Olive's letter to me in response to seeing these photographs, 1993.