No . 136
The Trusty Servant extended to his eight grand-children : Ella , William , Amelia , Lucy , Wren , Claire , Bonnie and Phoebe .
Paul was an exemplary husband . He took early retirement because Rosie had contracted Parkinson ’ s . Initially the illness remained unspoken , but everyone knew by the time A Vagabond in France came out in 2008 . It was based on his pilgrimage on foot four years earlier from Winchester to Berdoulat ; the book ’ s proceeds went to the Parkinson ’ s Disease Society .
Paul became entirely open about what was happening and did everything with Rosie . He was determined that she live life to the full with him : he took her everywhere and continued his busy social life unabated while ensuring that her every need be catered for and all her medication taken on time . I shall never forget Ed ’ s wedding . After the ceremony everyone was milling around in that great barn but Paul stayed resolutely at Rosie ’ s side . They formed a touching little island of quiet amid the noisy jollity .
Paul also warmed to many at the College who were unhappy or largely ignored . I know of two people who were generally disapproved of after a messy divorce or separation ; they were sent to Coventry , but Paul filled their glass saying : ‘ I expect you ’ re having a hard time . You have my every sympathy .’ Another example of the warmth of his character was his relationship with Susie . He and she radiated happiness . Once they were together he touchingly ensured that all his friends got to meet her . Susie was introduced to friends in Malaga , and he drove to Fife and no doubt many other places to do the same . He rang to tell me about Susie minutes before I was about to deliver a paper in Paris . The call was so urgent that I had to stop and listen ; and , of course , I readily accepted to come with Vassiliki to dinner the next week and meet Susie . We last saw them shortly before Paul ’ s death . He was on top form , roaring with laughter as in the old days , and she bubbly and engaging .
Now he ’ s gone . Without his roars of laughter , his warmth , his kindness , his flair , our lives are diminished , less fun , and once again fusty .
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