Aleric Donnal’s notebook
Aleric Donnal’s notebook
I am a little nervous about visiting St Julian’s because I know my student Jon Gadson is in residence there. I am concerned about his state of mind, but I am an academic who lives mostly in the past and I am no good at dealing with such strong emotions. I feel I am out of my depth.
I told Ethelred I intended to go to the house to check on the carvings, and he told me I could call round any time.
His tenants were hardly the type to object.
He also said he thought there might be some ancient tiles.
He said his father had put them in an old chest, which is probably still in the house.
I should call and ask about them if I had the chance.
When I told Ethelred of my plans to return to Brittany soon, he said he would miss my company.
I find I am free today, so I will drive over to Neston.
If I do call at the house to ask about the tiles, I feel it would seem remiss of me, as Jon’s tutor, not to try and have a quick word with the boy while I’m there, however apprehensive I feel about the prospect.
Perhaps he just needs a little guidance.
I will try again to persuade him to make use of the university’s counselling service and reassure him that his situation will be dealt with sympathetically and that he can defer his examinations if necessary.
I’m sure this will come as welcome news.
I will call at the house before searching for the carvings. I can regard it as my good deed for the day.