17 July, 1911

There is little to attract one out of doors. It is hard to imagine that we are only nine days off the "light value" where we left off playing football. I hope we shall be able to recommence the game soon.

I am glad light is coming for another reason. Ponting is not very fit —his nervous temperament is of the quality to take this wintering experience badly—Atkinson has some difficulty in persuading him to take exercise—he managed only by dragging him out to do his own work, digging holes in ice. Taylor is another backslider in the exercise line and is not looking well. If we can get these people to run about at football all will be well. Anyway, the return of the light should cure all ailments physical and mental.