Ellan Vannin Arms, Douglas, Isle of Man, 1932-34 (b/w photo)

On the back of this photograph John James Frowde writes, "First open view of the Ellan Vannin Arms. I noticed for the first time, when taking this, a feature that also struck me in the case of the big house no 11 Seneschal Lane. To-day any builder arranging windows will have them spaced at regular intervals. In the case of a 'gable' roof he will have the windows (arranged symetrically - illustration given / my words to show intention) but the old lads, that designed these ancient houses, had other ideas. As note the 'within' print. And I think they were right. There is too much regularity of roof line and of other matters these times." Additional notes: '"It is often the departure from the obvious that satisfies the artistic sense.' This reads like an aphorism by Puddenhead Wilson, but, strangely enough, by me." : "21 withdrawn pro tem. Overenlarged and too dark - to do again. But 22 almost similar subject, but sharper film. Simple explanation of the cross on the E.V. Arms roof. The Museum have it nothing churchy, but a fine bit of sandstone weather coping." (Simple illustration.)