A barrister and member of the shipping law company from Topsham in Devon, many of whom were living in the grand houses in Leigham Court Road and Streatham Common. Herbert is recorded at "Brooklands" in Streatham Park.
He married the actress Vivien Leigh and they remained married from 1932-1940.
They would have Vivien's only child, Suzanne and remained close friends their entire lives.