Quote:
Originally Posted by Stitchawl
Today I had lunch with Robert H. Batey, the author of 'Under His Hat.' He published his book several years ago, then underwent a prolonged round of abuse from the 'Louis Carroll Society' because he couldn't 'prove' his lineage.
He is the great-great nephew of 'Alice,' of ' Alice in Wonderland fame, and told me all about the real-life characters that are behind the names found in the book. I never realized that the tea party was a somewhat 'real' event, or that the players were actual people. I had known the name 'Coffee Johnny' from the British folk song, "Blayden Races," but I never knew he was 'The Mad Hatter,' or that Tommy Over the Bridge was 'the doormouse!'
It was an interesting lunch! I'm looking forward to reading the book. I don't give a damn if it's fact or fiction. He made for a rollicking good lunch companion!
Stitchawl
|
Hi
I was very interested to see this as My sister in laws and myself have been trying to get in touch with Robert through his publisher but to date no response. I believe that his story is true as my mother in law was
Annie Robinson Batey before she married a Leslie Franklin, she was daughter of Miles Robinson Batey and Isobella Batey formerly Taylor, Miles Robinson Batey was son of Sarah and Miles robinson Batey . My mother in law used to talk about being related to Coffee Johnny. If you have any idea how I contact Robert H Batey please contact me either on here or by sendning an e mail to
[Personal email address removed, as it can be dangerous to post personal information on forum. Contact member via PM to respond or to get contact information.]. Many thanks