9/9 There's always one
In the wee hours the last guest finally takes the hint and departs for home

Merry Xmas to all

8/9 Not forgetting the drunken love overtures that follow

7/9 Time for a dance to overcome all that lovely food and drink

6/9 Then comes the after dinner raconteur with his tall tales and bon mots washed down with some nice brandy

5/9 The Head Butler uncorks the wine ready for dinner

4/9 Downstairs, the servants get to try out the coachman's extremely potent punchbowl

3/9 Whilst the rest of the old folks settle down for a nice game of cards

2/9 Old and slightly drunk Uncle Jasper decides to take charge of the children's entertainment

Christmas Boxes - London 1794
4/4 This bah-humbug quartet is completed by the Dowager who is only to willing to give an Xmas box so long as its around her poor servant's ear-holes

Christmas Boxes - London 1794
3/4 The apothecary threatens to 'physio' to death anyone who dares to request an Xmas box

Christmas Boxes - London 1794
2/4 The parson and his well-fed dog see no grounds for generosity towards this 'undeserving' labourer

A traditional English Christmas
3/4 Four scenes from London c.1750 which may resonate with how we celebrate Xmas today
Fast foward to the morning of Boxing Day where peace and goodwill is still in evidence, as a couple hand out gifts, with the lady putting a coin in a man's hat.

A traditional English Christmas
3/4 Four scenes from London c.1750 which may resonate with how we celebrate Xmas today
Fast foward to the morning of Boxing Day where peace and goodwill is still in evidence, as a couple hand out gifts, with the lady putting a coin in a man's hat.

A traditional English Christmas
2/4 Four scenes from London c.1750 which may resonate with how we celebrate Xmas today
On the night before Christmas some carol singers & musicians serenade a young couple who hand down a tip in gratitude