Hi, Still trying to figure out an entry I came across in the 1881 census ; came across this one today - In Whitehaven a 53 year old widowed woman keeps a lodge. Next in the "household" is a 33 old married male "boarder". The next 2 appear to be husband and wife, John Carlton age 23 married "lodger" & Mary J. Carlton age 24 married "lodger". Next after Mary is Agnes Wilkinson "Mother in law", widowed and age 50. Then 2 more lodgers. Questions - 1. You don't suppose a 50 year old is mother in law to a 53 year old? I've always read relationship was to head of house ; but have seen enough returns to know quirks and eccentricities (of the enumerator) can creep in. 2. Is it just "change of pace" or is there a difference between "boarder" and "lodger". And please don't tell me I'm grasping at straws - I already know that. :>) David