This is a puzzle- appreciate your input!

[DavidG02]

Isnt the connection between Margaret and Arch and Frank ?

[jettejjane]

Isnt the connection between Margaret and Arch and Frank ?

Not really looking into names  at present but yes i see what you mean, just wondered what the card was all about, especially the writing on the back. The connection between names will probably not be unlocked, but fingers crossed uncle Archie may hold the key. Although that is not my immediate priority just the card fascinates me. I don't think searching for the names will help explain the card.

[groom]

It's obviously a home made card, I still think it could be some sort of in joke between friends. From the way Margaret signs it "with regards" she sounds more like an acquaintance than a relative.

[jettejjane]

It's obviously a home made card, I still think it could be some sort of in joke between friends. From the way Margaret signs it "with regards" she sounds more like an acquaintance than a relative.

Yes, I agree on all counts. Probably have to be there to understand! The Castigas reference was the first puzzle, then obviously which Arch.  Bearing in mind Uncle was called Archie by family and was born in 1931 so if it is indeed 30's or 40's he would be quite young and it seems more fitting for a child. Dad was referred to as Arch. Now uncle is older he is Arch!  I keep changing my mind on who was the recipient.  The formality of Regards Margaret lends itself to Grandad more so than a little boy.

Think I am going round in circles here! 

[groom]

I agree about the formality pointing to your grandfather rather than uncle, especially if it was found amongst his things. It is obviously from an adult by the writing, and I think in those days, if writing to a child, she would have referred to herself as "Auntie Margaret" whether she was related or not. Even up to the 50s we addressed adults either as Mr or Mrs and their surname, or as Auntie or Uncle. All our neighbours  were aunties! Also I don't think she would have used "with regards" it would either have been just "from " or "with love."

[mazi]

I wonder if "Castigas" is a reference to the child's teddy who took the blame for the child's misbehaviour, as in   I didn't spill the milk, teddy did.

It could be that Margaret is an old family friend who knew Arch as a little boy and is reminding a now much older Arch of his childhood.

Agree it may be wartime as Christmas cards were hard to come by then.

[jettejjane]

I wonder if "Castigas" is a reference to the child's teddy who took the blame for the child's misbehaviour, as in   I didn't spill the milk, teddy did.

It could be that Margaret is an old family friend who knew Arch as a little boy and is reminding a now much older Arch of his childhood.

Agree it may be wartime as Christmas cards were hard to come by then.

I like your way of thinking.

[larkspur]

Could Frank be a jokey term for the wife of Arch?

[jettejjane]

Could Frank be a jokey term for the wife of Arch?

Sorry a categorical no!  Grandad didn't do jokes or sense of humour! Thankfully his 3 sons made up for it in spades!