MISSING FRIENDS

Ingrid and Chump, on the 'roches' at Roches Fleuries

S A T U R D A Y,  2 9  J U L Y

Woke up covered in midge bites, including a huge one, 2" diameter, on my knee.

Had breakfast on our terraces - croissants and fresh orange juice. On my way to the pool the two chaps at the bar stared like mad. Jean said something but I didn’t quite catch it, so I smiled, then the other one said something so I turned round and said: “quoi?” “Nous avons dit bonjour,” said Jean. They must think I’m a half wit.

Chump and me were practically the only people at the pool beside the instructor. He came up to me and asked if I was English and if Chump was my sister, then he said lilos were not allowed in the pool. I read some Paul Gallico stories but felt miserable, which is so silly. I'm having a holiday in France and here I am feeling miserable. But the fact is, it's not much fun. I don't like swimming so I can't do that, and sun-bathing I get too hot. I feel such a pig to be complaining even though I don't say anything to Ma and Pa.

“I’ve got no friends, and there aren’t even any nice boys to look at.”

Daddy took some photos of Chump diving – she really can now. She can also crawl pretty well. I went out to the raft on the lilo in order not to get my hair wet, but I did anyway. I could have screamed at lunch, my hair felt so awful. And my face was baking hot.

Played a bit of table tennis in the afternoon. I asked the swimming instructor for the bats and balls and he found them immediately. He didn’t realise I hadn’t even looked for them, so he said “you must buy some glasses.” Very funny ha ha. He thinks he’s so marvellous.

Changed into Le Touquet trousers and ribbed top. Sat on the terrace and had a coke. Jean isn’t quite the snazz I thought he was. The fair really does look like Roger Daltry. Felt more cheerful at supper. Daddy said, "it's a pity old monkey-face (Dominique) isn't here!" Not even Corky Snazz is here this year.

About 10.15 Chump and me went for a walk. We went to Aiguebelle Beach, all in the dark. It was very scary, but super fun. We could hear this band in the distance, and walked until we got to it! 

All put anti-midge stuff on before bed.

Ladies by the pool: note the cool blue hat