“Christopher Whall completed two windows for St Martin’s Cathedral in Leicester. These were an East window and a West window in the inner South Aisle. The three-light window was installed in 1905 and has St Martin in the central light. The East window, dating to 1920, is a war memorial window. In “The Buildings of England. Leicestershire and Rutland” this window was described thus “In an Expressionist style with many Pre-Raphaelite memories”. The lower left-hand light features St Joan of Arc.” (List of Christopher Whall works in cathedrals and minsters)
“ Two windows were completed by Veronica for the Cathedral’s St Dunstan’s Chapel” (List of works by Veronica Whall)
Imagined conversation between Christopher and Veronica, any time between 1905 and 1920.
“Veronica, go and tidy up those glass splinters, there’s a good girl.”
“Dad, I’m busy. It won’t take you long. You do it, if it’s so important to you.”
“Veronica, I’m not asking you, I’m telling you.”
“You can’t order me about.”
“I’m not ordering you about. I’m asking you, as I would ask any apprentice of mine to tidy up after themselves.”
“Yeh but no but yeh but no but I’m not any old apprentice am I?”
“That’s besides the point. Just do as I ask.”
“You’re not my boss.”
“Yes, actually, I am.”
Look, I’ve got this window to finish. Just put a sock in it. If you’re stressed about a few pieces of glass, go and get a cleaner.”
“Veronica, I will not be talked to like that.”
“Whatevah.”
Plus ça change.
