What a splendid thing it was to arrive at Hatfield in the hazy autumn sunshine. As we gathered in the early evening, champagne in hand, surrounded by old friends and new, I reflected on the many joys of being a member of the House – and of course the benefits associated with being on the Board of Benefactors. We had a real treat in store. It is hard to overstate the impact of The Marble Hall: the famous portrait of Queen Elizabeth I dazzled us all as we gathered to hear the Marquess of Salisbury talk about Hatfield House, and connections to Christ Church. With exquisite ceilings above us, and the chequered chess-board marble beneath our feet, we were magically transported to past worlds, as if in Wonderland ourselves. As an English Literature graduate, I should perhaps have known about Lewis Carroll’s visits to Hatfield, the inspiration he found there, his affection for it, and the story he had written for young Cecils when he visited, the original of which was on display together with other remarkable letters marking the connection between Hatfield and the House.

Following Lord Salisbury as speaker was the charismatic architect, Ptolemy Dean, who has designed an extension to Christ Church’s library. Mr Dean is well known for restoration and new creation and particularly for his brilliance in fusing sympathetically the ancient with the contemporary (take for example his “steam punk gothic” tower at Westminster Abbey). The model on display in the Marble Hall for the library project that evening was interesting and much admired. We await Ptolemy’s creation springing to life at Christ Church – a very exciting prospect.

With thanks to the Marquess of Salisbury (Robert Cecil, 1965, History) and Lord Charles Cecil (1968, History) for hosting the event. Photos are available here.