1933–1947 Retreat

Abstract

The last ten years of the partnership were marred by ill health. In October 1933 Beatrice had a severe kidney infection and had to have an operation. A further operation was required in the new year. Even though the second was more successful, Beatrice found it difficult to regain both her strength and spirits. Tt is’ she wrote wearily, ‘as if my personality were separate from my bodily organs, as if my will and purpose and my knowledge were as strong as ever but my physical organs were weak and brittle instruments breaking down directly I try to use them’ (13 February 1934). Her kidneys continued to cause her considerable pain throughout the remainder of her life.