Gladys by Karen Blayne

Oh by the way red tape first. Copyright 2014

Be warned these short stories contain mature content or naughty bits and as such may corrupt you if you’re under 12, 16, 18, 21 or 25 depending where you live thus they are not suitable for you so put them back on the shelf and let them age for a year or two.

They were sort of scribbled for fun. They were first posted on asstr.org. If you’ve paid money for this book just be aware the author has not received any payment. In fact no one has permission to charge money for this book and copyright is retained by the author. Asstr.org accepts donations if you’re feeling rich or even if you’re not.

Luv Karen

Well the harvest was in, the weather had been bad, dry when it should have rained and rained when it should have been dry. Her dad had always complained about the weather as far back as she could remember, if only they’d had two more days of sun at the right time the harvest would have been better but even Gladys could see the barn only held two thirds of what it normally held when they gathered in the harvest and with the new babe that had just arrived it wasn’t enough for all the family.

Still she was a big girl now of fourteen, her friend Jessie had got a job at the big house as a laundry maid and she’d mentioned they’d mentioned the need for a scullery maid so she’d put on her best dress and knocked at the kitchen door. Jesse had said they were having a dinner party that night so she was hopeful, six shillings and eight pence a month same as Jesse and she was to share a bed with Jesse. Still as Jesse said they were given two dress lengths of material a year and they got fed as well, better than nowt. She even managed to sneak a few bits of leftover food back to her family which was welcomed with open arms.

The old baron died and his widow died only a month later. The lawyers arrived and nothing could be done until the new heir was found and took up his responsibilities, as far as anyone knew he was fighting in Spain or they thought he might be. Unfortunately he was carried off by fever and it was some months before the news reached the lawyers who tried to trace the next in line. At the house life continued as normal for Jesse and Gladys, there were still dishes to wash up, ironing to be done, trays to be carried carefully up the poorly lit back stairs with its uneven treads perhaps slightly less than if the family was in residence, one footman left and wasn’t replaced but neither really thought there was much difference to their work load.

“Post for you sir.” A letter from the lawyers had caught up with Major James Burges in Spain informing him he was now Lord Baynes. He read the letter then took it to his commanding officer. “Well there’s no question you must go back, I hadn’t realised you were in line? Or why you hadn’t brought your colours? Not that I’m complaining mind you’ve done very well rising through the ranks.” “Well I knew there was a remote family connection but hadn’t thought there was any chance of me inheriting and I was more comfortable in the ranks than I would have been buying my colours.” “Can you take a couple of days to explain your duties to Regimental Serjeant Major Jenkins and I suppose we’d better appoint another RSM and I’ll send the dispatches back with you and you can sort your discharge out with Whitehall.” James nodded and walked back to his office come store room that was in a farmer’s barn and had his command gather round.

“I’m now Lord Baynes so I’ll be leaving you in a day or two. As normal a warrant officer will be promoted to quartermaster and so Regimental Serjeant Major Jenkins will be the new quartermaster. Q can you sort out anything that needs my attention so the handover will go smoothly.” His Quartermaster Serjeant saluted smartly.

On board ship he shared a cabin with Colonel Sanders who was going back to report to the war office. There were a few injured commissioned officers who looked down upon him as having come up through the ranks and hadn’t been in the front line but Colonel Saunders soon put them right with a few well chosen words saying what would their troops have done without powder and shot. No it was his belief that logistics or making sure the correct supplies got through that won battles and wars. Why did they think they’d been sent to attempt to cut off the enemy’s supply lines so often? James had always been naturally cautious and simply said he was carrying papers back to the War Office rather than let it be known that he was the new Lord Baynes. When they arrived back at Portsmouth Colonel Saunders suggested they travel onwards to London together and he offered to put James up in the family home for a few days whilst he got his affairs sorted out.

“My darling brother David how wonderful to see you. What perfect timing Felicity’s ball is tonight and with all the fighting going on spare men are thin on the ground to say the least and here my darling brother turns up with an unmarried officer.” She turned smiling to James “You are unmarried aren’t you?” Colonel Saunders turned to James “And this is my sister Chloris, note no mention of how are you just the basics, we’re more cannon fodder for her cousin’s ball.” “I’m sure I don’t have an invitation and wouldn’t like to intrude.” “I’ll send a note to Felicity by footman and I guarantee you a personal invitation within the hour. Now would you like something to eat, David your valet can find James something to wear tonight can’t he?”

Later that evening James found himself at Felicity’s ball. He soon found himself introduced to a number of Felicity’s female friends all perfectly groomed in their white or pale dresses to make the most of the candlelight. He signed his name on four or five dance cards and hoped he could remember their faces and which dance was which. The talk seemed insubstantial mainly on dits and gossip. “I like you I can tell you all my old gossip and you haven’t heard it all before.” Said one smiling debutante, “Besides I can relax with you.” “Why can you relax with me?” “Oh that’s easy it’s just a dance but if you had a title then I’d have to watch my tongue and mother would be worried if you didn’t ask me for a second dance, plus she’d want to know every word you said and everything has to be so calculated.” “Calculated?” “Why certainly, Lord Norris for example only cares for his horses. Mama had a special tutor in for me so I knew how to sound interested in horses in such a way as to let him demonstrate his knowledge whilst I had a fascinated look plastered on my face. Would you like to see my fascinated look?” She looked intently at him just as if he was pronouncing words of wisdom and fluttered her eyelashes. Then she grinned, “Good isn’t it, I practised for hours in the mirror. You know the whole town is agog to spot Lord Baynes, we know he was in Spain and mama thinks he might be back soon. She has bribed one of the clerks at his man of business to let her know the moment he arrives at his office in town. She thinks to sneak in and pounce on the poor man before he knows his way around town.” “It doesn’t sound as if the poor man stands much chance.” She tilted her head slightly “Well he doesn’t really, there are so few eligible men this year Susan Horlock managed to get herself compromised last week by ripping her dress on the terrace and Thomasina Tindale is quite desperate, it’s her one and only season you understand so she has to marry or remain a spinster. My maid told me that Thomasina’s ball gowns all have weakened seams so they’ll fall apart at the slightest provocation.”

After that James kept himself to the quieter young ladies on the edges of the ballroom who didn’t wear such elaborate dresses but even these had a gleam in their eye and seemed to be weighing him up in terms of how much he might be worth.

The next morning after delivering his dispatches to the war office and resigning his commission he found his way down to his father’s solicitor and man of business and explained he’d prefer not to go and claim his inheritance in person since he understood one of the clerks had been bribed to spread the word of his appearance. Could someone do it for him and he’d prefer to keep his identity quiet after attending a society ball and seeing how desperate the debutantes were becoming. “Perhaps a letter of authority as your Lordship’s secretary? It could give you the authority and access to the funds whilst keeping your lordship’s identity undercover. Oh by the way may I invite you to dinner tonight, just the family, the wife and daughter?” James flashed him a look. “I was joking, my daughter is happily married with two small children but the haunted look on your face was priceless. I’ll send one of my more trusted clerks to summon the other solicitor to my office for this afternoon shall we say at 2 pm?”

Armed with his precious letter of authority he set off from London on horseback the following day. He brought a nondescript cob and rode slowly north and west taking his time sampling English beer, the local cheeses, traditional cooking such as roast beef with the trimmings, all the things he’d missed in Spain. He stumbled across a horse fair and late in the afternoon purchased a pair of huge Shires just because he liked the look of them, well that and because there didn’t seem to be that much demand for heavy farm horses and the price was right.

Arriving at the village inn he caused a stir especially when he asked after Lord Baynes estate. “No good trying to sell your horses there my good man, the lawyers have put a cap on spending money. Besides the agent is a bit old fashioned and if the animal wasn’t born on the estate he can’t see the point of spending good money on it. No you’d be better off heading north a mile or two and seeing Mr. Belthorpe, the Squire’s agent. He has a much more open mind.” He brought a round or two of drinks and sat quietly listening as the workers gave their opinion about the state of the estate and what needed doing to set it to rights. Bella the barmaid managed to brush her breasts against him each time she returned to the bar with the empties, her eyes full of promise of the delights in store for him if only his purse strings would loosen slightly.

The following morning he departed early from the inn and approached the estate. The cattle seemed skinny and scrawny as he rode by, the hedging had seen better days and the cottages looked as if a splash or two of paint would do no harm which seemed to confirm the pub’s opinion of the estate the previous evening. He rode his cob leading the two huge shires on a loose rein behind him round past the house into the stable yard and dismounted. A pair of stable lads hurried to lead his mount and the big farm horses away. He strolled over to the kitchen door and knocked and when a maid answered asked to speak to the steward. “Oh he’s busy right now but the housekeeper is free. Who should I say it is?” “James Burges, secretary to his lordship.” She ducked a quick curtsey “If you’d like to come this way sir I’ll lead you to Mr. Mason the butler.” As they passed through the kitchen James was startled to hear the French language being spoken rather loudly. After fighting the French for numerous years and seeing the injured coming back from the battle front he found he had a strong gut reaction to pick up the nearest cleaver and use it. He paused and regained control before following the maid who’d paused herself and turned to look back at him.

As he waited he overheard two servants whispering, “What’s the new one like then?” “I heard his side of the family was in trade.” “Not so good then.” He handed his letter of authority to the butler who raised his eyebrows. “When may we expect his lordship?” “I’m not at liberty to say. I’m merely doing a tour of inspection so could you arrange for the house and estate ledgers to be brought to me shall we say in the library.” He held his hand out for his letter which was returned to him. The young maid had been hovering in the background motioned him into the library. “Would you like me to bring you a sandwich and perhaps a mug of ale?” “I’d prefer coffee if you could manage it and a sandwich would be nice.”

He sat and poured over the ledgers, as far as he could see the estate wasn’t very profitable for its size, not only that but the household expenses seemed excessively high. He looked up when he’d finished to see the butler and steward waiting to see if he needed any clarifications. “I see the income from the estate is just about matched by the expenditure in the house. We do seem to have a large number of servants?” “Over fifty inside servants plus a dozen stable hands and a dozen gardeners and a French chef. The previous Lord Baynes liked to throw house parties and entertain on a grand scale.” The butler announced grandly. “Well there haven’t been any for over four years now.” “Well we didn’t like to cut back, not knowing the new Lord’s wishes.” “The estate will basically become just a farm and the inside staff will be cut back. It can’t really be much of a surprise to you after more than four years with no family in residence.” He looked down at the ledger and searched out the two lowest paid servants. “Find me Gladys and Jessie.” These two were ushered into his presence. “Right you’ll do, the rest of you pack your bags and you’ll be paid up until the end of the week.” “That’s not much notice.” “You’ve had it easy for the last few years so be thankful for small mercies. Organise yourselves for references and I’ll write out something for the senior staff.” “Does that include me, the estate steward?” “It includes everyone other than Gladys and Jessie. Looking at the books I’m afraid we can no longer afford you.”

An hour later he found his way to the kitchen with Gladys and Jessica and put on a kettle to brew tea. “Now to start with your pay is doubled, £4 a year is far too low. Now then can you go through the house and write down anything that might need attention?” “I can’t read nor write.” “I can read but they never taught us writing.” One more thing to do he thought, he looked at their uniforms. “You look as if you could do with new dresses.” “We haven’t had any dress lengths at Christmas for two years, the lawyers wouldn’t sanction the money.” “We’ll get you some dress lengths then, I assume you can sew?” “My sister Molly is better.” “Well we’re saving on lots of the other staff so tell her she’s hired then, same rate of pay.” “Who’s going to feed them horses? My younger brother Jed could do it.” He looked at Gladys and thought how young she looked so heaven only knew how young her brother would be. “Well they aren’t going to feed themselves so I suppose so. Go and collect our new members of staff and don’t you dare think that we need anyone else. I’m off to see the Squire’s steward and see if he can offer any advice.” He hung a saddle bag with the ledgers across the cob and set off in the general direction of the Squire’s property.

Lady Buchannan sighed, Garrett was now thirty and still unmarried, not surprising when his mother kept throwing flighty young debs at him without a thought in their head other than the latest fashion. No now his older brother had died Garrett needed someone with a head on her shoulders not one of these simpering idiots. She thought hard and recalled Louisa, now she would have been ideal, but it must be twenty five years since she married her clergyman and left the ton behind her. “Thea, do you remember what happened to my second cousin Louisa? The tall bluestocking who buried herself in the country?” Her companion thought hard for a moment. “Garrett I presume? She had a daughter some time ago but she was never presented. Louisa might be too old for him but her daughter might not be. How will you do it? Louisa was always very independent and I can’t see her daughter being anything different.”

“We need to access the daughter but how? Chantele perhaps?” “Isn’t the living on the Baynes estate?” “Oh you mean.” “Precisely.”

James paused at the rectory to pay his respects. A voice from the garden hailed him “Hello are you Lord Baynes’s secretary then? I’m Sally, the rector’s daughter.” “I’m James and as you mentioned Lord Baynes secretary.” “I hope he’s coming to take up residence sometime. Papa misses his French chef dinners so much. We used to be invited regularly when the house was entertaining. You look military, an officer?” she hazarded. “Quartermaster.” “Oh dear he won’t like that, promoted from the ranks, he likes his officers titled. Oh well at least I won’t be encouraged to set my cap for you.” He continued to the house and soon it was obvious that the rector’s daughter’s words were true. The rector felt quite put out that the formal indoor staff had been dismissed and the new lord gave no indication for entertaining on the same scale as the old. He continued his journey.

“Hello, Dad’s expecting you.” Isabel peered out the door behind him “You didn’t bring the Shires then?” James remembered once more that this was the country so everyone would have heard about the comments in the pub last night. “No I didn’t bring the Shires.” “Well you’d better come through to his study, at breakfast time he mentioned he thought you’d be here today with or without the Shires and when we heard you’d dismissed the most of the staff he said there was hope for you yet even if the rector’s nose would be put out of joint.” “I know I’ve just met Sally and the rector.” “Sally’s OK but the rector is a bit patronising for me, and don’t tell anyone I said that.” She warned then turned and led the way to her father’s study.

“Isabel tell your mother we’ll have a guest for lunch and dinner.” “Will I be staying that long?” “We’ve ten years of neglect to go through and I doubt you’ve much farming experience so yes it will take most of the day to go through even the basics.” “And you’re willing to spare me the time?” “It’s Isabel’s nineteenth birthday in a month’s time and the only place to hold a decent dance other than a barn for miles around is Lord Baynes’s ballroom at the hall.” “But won’t your employer object to you spending time like this?” “Oh didn’t I mention both your estate and ours need a new bull and ram, and we only need one of each for both so we’ll use your money to buy them.” “A fair exchange is no robbery. I just wonder if it’s a fair exchange.”

By lunch time James’s head was reeling from all the information being thrown out at him. There was a lot more to running an estate than he’d thought. He was taken to inspect the kitchen and admire the new enclosed range that was designed to burn coal. “Now the advantages are it uses less fuel than the old open fires and it is designed to burn coal which burns at a higher temperature than wood. It can also burn wood. Also by burning coal you can convert a lot of the woods over to open fields and thus grow more crops.” “And let me guess a barge full of coal would keep both estates going for the year.” “Well we could get a better price buying in bulk in the summer and with your two Shires to haul it from the canal to the cottages, need I say more?”

Over the evening meal Mrs. Belthorpe looked across at James. “Has he totally confused you?” “Well some of the finer details I’ll need to straighten out but on the whole I think I’ve a much clearer idea of what I’ve got myself into than before.” “Anything we haven’t covered?” “I think the only thing we haven’t covered is where to find an intelligent governess but I didn’t think Mr. Belthorpe was the ideal person to ask, perhaps yourself?” “Miss Ophelia Forward perhaps?” contributed Isabel. “Well her charges were sent off to school last week and I know she wants to stay in the district to be near her sister, yes I think she would be my choice as well.” “Isabel I think it might be an idea if you were to take James over his estate and point out what work needs to be done.” “You’d be better at it than I.” “Yes but I don’t have the time to spare and besides you know the cottagers better than I.” Isabel pulled a face “Is Thursday morning at 9 ish convenient?” “I’ll look forward to it.” James grinned.

The next morning found James at Miss Ophelia Forward’s sister’s house. He’d hitched the Shires up to wagon not knowing just how much luggage Miss Ophelia Forward might have. “Thirty pounds a year to teach three young ladies, yes I think I could manage that and it’s local too you say?” “The Baynes’s estate.” She examined him closely “Who gave you my name?” “Miss Isabel Belthorpe suggested you and her mother agreed with her choice.” Ophelia visibly relaxed. “Well no time like the present is there I’ll put my things together and then we’ll be off.”

When they arrived at the hall Ophelia looked round. “Do I recall all the servants were dismissed?” “Not quite all. Gladys fetch the rest. Now we have a large number of bedchambers to choose from since the hall was previously used for house parties or if you prefer to climb more stairs there are various servant’s rooms in the attics but they aren’t as nice.” Gladys, Jessie and Molly stood at the end of the hall. “And here are your charges.” “But they’re servants.” “So they need the three Rs.” “I should have known there was a catch, five pounds a year more than the going rate.” She took in a deep breath, “But it’s near my married sister so yes I’ll do it.” “Wot’s the three Rs then?” Asked Jessie, “Reading, Writing and Arithmetic.” “Arithwhat?” “Sums.” “Don’t need no sums.” “No? Right everyone outside on the wagon we’re off to market.”

As they passed one of the cottages and saw a woman hanging up her washing in the garden he had a thought and pulled up. “What’s her name?” He asked Gladys. “Mrs Durham.” “Mrs. Durham may I hire you for the day I need to do some shopping in town and need some advice. I’d be willing to pay you ten shillings for your time.” Jessie looked at him “You’re mad that’s two weeks wages for her man.” Mrs. Durham looked across at Gladys. “It’s alright he’s harmless but just has these odd starts.” James put his hand in his pocket and pulled out some change and handed to her. “Willie take this tanner and your sister up to next door and give it to Mrs. Jones. Ask her nicely to look after you today and feed Sam his supper this evening. Oh and you’d better go tell your dad he’s to eat next door tonight.” She climbed up onto the back of the wagon and James continued his journey.

“Now did I mention that it’s Miss Isabel Belthorpe’s nineteenth birthday in a month’s time and her parents are holding a dance in our ballroom to celebrate.” The three girls sat up and looked at him. “We’ll need dresses.” “I thought as much that’s why we’re going to the fabric warehouse to get you some dress lengths.” The girls were excited and chatted merrily away about their conquests they’d make at the dance for the rest of the two hour journey. James meanwhile spoke to Mrs. Durham about who lived on the estate and in which cottage and how many children they had.

Once in town he parked the wagon at the back of the warehouse. “Now then pop in and see if you can find some suitable material. I’ll follow in a minute or two after I’ve sorted out a little job I’d like Mrs. Durham to do for me.” He escorted Mrs Durham into the hardware store a few doors along the street. “We’d like to look at some coal burning enclosed kitchen stoves please.” He turned to Mrs. Durham “Now take your time but go through them and sort out which would be the most practical. I’ll sort the girls out at the warehouse then return for you.”

He addressed himself to Gladys, Jessie and Molly “Have you each sorted out which material you’d like?” They pointed out which they each liked the best. “Right I understand its 25% off if you buy a complete bolt.” The salesman nodded and James did a quick bit of mental arithmetic. “So here’s a bit of paper with the amount you have to spend. Now everyone on the estate needs a length of coating for a new winter coat. All the girls and women get three dress lengths all the men and boys get enough for two pairs of trousers, two shirts and a smock. If there isn’t enough money then you don’t get your dress lengths so do the sums.” The salesman grinned and Miss Ophelia Forward gave a full hearted chortle. The three girls looked at each other in dismay. “Don’t forget a skilled seamstress can often get eleven dresses out of the same length if it’s in one piece as ten separate dress lengths by careful cutting.” Added the salesman helpfully, he got glowered at by Jessie for his trouble.

“Oh and Miss Forward your dress lengths come out after everyone else’s.” A much more serious face appeared on Ophelia as she stopped laughing and started to help the girls with their sums. “Now how many dress lengths do we need and how many do we get on a bolt?” She asked.

James drew the salesman to one side and asked about what wool they had. Eventually he ended up with several large bags which were put to one side ready to be collected when the girls had decided which material should be ordered and how this could best be done in bolts. The salesman took pity on them and offered them some remnants and end of bolts at a discounted price which caused the girls to start over in their calculations.

James left and wondered back to the hardware store where Mrs. Durham had settled on a model with two ovens, one for baking and a cooler one suitable for bread rising plus it had a built in hot water kettle that you could get hot water out of by just turning a tap. “How much installed.” The salesman wrote down the figure and prepared his speech about easy payments he knew how often the sale was lost when told the price. “I suppose they’re cheaper by the dozen.” James asked raising his eyebrows. “25% off our already low price.” The salesman joked back. “I’ll take two and a quarter dozen then.” The salesman was aghast “You’re joking aren’t you?” James smiled and quietly replied “No.” “Oh dear.” The salesman disappeared into the back of the shop and the proprietor came out. “Which estate?” “Baynes.” “If I arrange for them to delivered by canal can you get them to the cottages. I assume these are for the estate cottages?” James nodded and the proprietor scribbled away on a bit of paper. “I’ll offer you half now, a further quarter when half are installed the final quarter on completion?” “Done but heaven knows what my builder associate will say, still it’s his bloody son who offered the 25% off wasn’t it.” He said more cheerfully. “Since your cottages might not be used to coal they’ll need a lump hammer each to break up the coal lumps and coal scuttles as well. I’ll order one of each for each stove shall I? At 25% off our normal price of course.” James turned to see Mrs. Durham looking wistfully at some cooking pots and pans. “They’re so much cheaper than in the village.” “Well in for a penny in for a pound, pick out half a dozen, no make it a dozen and give half to your neighbour. A dozen plates and mugs as well?” Mrs. Durham moved quickly before he could change his mind. “I suppose you’d like 25% off these as well?” James smiled “I never could resist a bargain. Could you deliver them to the warehouse two doors down? In the next thirty minutes care of Miss Forward. Now Mrs. Durham, I’m parched so why don’t we have a nice cup of tea across the road at the tea shop. Perhaps even a slice of cake.”

Mrs. Durham just sat at the table with its freshly laundered tablecloth. “Well I never thought to be sitting here today drinking tea and eating cake without having to worry about the washing up. If I’d only known I could have worn my Sunday best. I think it must be quite the finest day in my life. Now then young sir what are you up to?” “Well we need to switch the estate over to coal for cooking and heating so I can send the timber in the woods to the saw mill. That needs new stoves and I’m no expert on stoves so hence I needed you. There will be resistance to change but hopefully you can explain the advantages to the cottagers in ways I couldn’t.” “Have I time to look round the toy shop, Willie would like a top of his own and I daresay Jane would like a doll as well.” “Take your time we won’t leave without you, just come back to the wagon when you’re ready. Let me tempt you to another cup of tea first.” Mrs. Durham looked ready to refuse but then gave into temptation and another slice of cake.

James meandered through the cattle market and a mare put her nose out hoping for a slice of apple as he went by. “She likes you sir, here feed her a slice of apple.” The young hopeful girl place one in his hand. The mare’s big eyes looked hopefully at him and nibbled it up when he held his hand out flat. “There’s a pair of sheepdogs an all that go with her, always sleep in her stable.” The girl who couldn’t be above ten sounded hopeful now, the two dogs looked up at him sleepily but seemed fit and healthy as far as he could tell. “Mother and I are off to London as soon as we’ve sold them. We’ve sold the sheep already.” He fumbled in his pocket to find the right sort of coins. “Where’s your mam then?” The girl nodded towards a woman chatting on the corner who came up as soon as the girl beckoned. The transaction was soon concluded. Emma would take them round to the back of the warehouse and tie the cob to the back, the dogs would ride in the back.

“So have you sorted everything out?” “Just about, Molly thought if we mixed in some of the panels of the skirts in different patterns we could make the dresses look different whilst still keeping to bolt lengths and we’ve even managed to include some material suitable for unmentionables.” James nodded his approval to the list. “Now you’ll need scissors, needles, thread, and such but they don’t come out of your budget amount, Oh and while I think about it enough material for a couple of those divided riding skirts.” “Riding skirts?” “I assume you ride and my cob may need exercising occasionally.” Ophelia shrugged her shoulders and decided to humour him picking out two lengths of suitable material. The salesman threw in a few knitting needles as well just in case as he put it.

Ophelia gave him a look when she saw the cob tied to the back of the wagon. James shrugged “She was a bargain left at the end of the market day.” They loaded the wagon up Mrs. Durham sat in the back in a world of her own with her precious plates, pots and pans, pinching herself from time to time to make sure she wasn’t dreaming. The sheepdogs were dreaming of summer days and herds of sheep to play with. The girls were lost in their thoughts of how the perfect dress would capture the perfect male of their dreams and James wondering how he was going to disperse all the material he’d brought on impulse without it seeming to be charity.

The solution came to him as they arrived at the back door after they’d dropped Mrs. Durham off at her door with her packages. “Right pick out the ones you want for the dance and let’s take everything else up into the attics.” The girls looked at him as if he was mad. “You too Jed get carrying these bolts upstairs. Now then I want every unmarried girl over fourteen on the estate here in the great hall tomorrow evening at say five o’clock can you arrange that for me.” Well he was paying the wages so what he said went shrugged Jessie as she struggled with yet another bolt of cloth up the stairs.

“It’s Miss Isabel Belthorpe’s nineteenth birthday in a month’s time and to celebrate her parents are holding dance here in the ballroom. Everyone on the two estates will be invited but I’d like you to have new dresses for the occasion if we can manage it. We’ve got some material here.” He pointed to the material by Gladys “But we need more so have a look in the attics and see if there are any old dresses that could be reworked or any material lying around.” You could see there was a lack of enthusiasm in the crowd but they climbed the stairs slowly anyway.

Miss Ophelia Forward gave him a glance of admiration. “I hadn’t realised you could be so devious.” “Thank you I think.” James was educated Ophelia thought apprising him but then the idea of marrying someone who would just have their own room in the house just didn’t appeal. Better a farmer at least she’d rule the household, a girl had to be practical. A few minutes later lengths and bolts of material were carried into the ballroom by the chattering excited girls. Even a few old dresses and skirts that had been found in trunks were carried down the precious lace trimming would be reused to adorn the new dresses, the skeins of wool were carried down as well.

“I think if you’d like to select the material you’d like then tell Miss Forward which one you’d like she can take note of it then we can plan out how to cut them out to minimise wastage.” Needless to say the instruction in practical arithmetic were the most popular lessons as designs had an inch added on the hip here or an inch or two shortened or lengthened in the skirt there.

They were sat around in the kitchen as none of the other fires were lit, the two sheepdogs were on the hearth rug. Jessica’s ankle was bound up from slipping on the back stairs, James had decreed that until they had orders to the contrary they were to use the front staircase since at least the steps were even and the lighting was better than the back stairs. “Good heavens.” Exclaimed Ophelia reading the paper that had arrived that morning barely four days old. “They’re talking about raising the age of consent to thirteen mind you when you think about it sixteen would be more appropriate.” “That won’t suit Lord Sand, likes his maids young he does. Eighteen and you’re finished, too old for his tastes.” “Sixteen seems rather old doesn’t it?” Enquired James, “Well the outcome is often pregnancy and I really don’t think a girl of even sixteen is really mature enough to be a mother, twelve most certainly not.” “I’ve never thought about it that way before I suppose you’re right but they’d never get the age of consent raised to sixteen not with Lord Sand and his cronies sitting in the house of lords.” “I wonder what Lord Baynes expects of his maids thirteen and up?” James wondered what to say “Well I suppose since I’m acting on his behalf I’d better put you all through your paces so I can recommend one to him.” He twirled his imaginary moustache. “Fat chance.” Said Molly putting her tongue out at him.

James picked up the paper and was soon engrossed in it. “It seems a waste not to shine the place up just for a dance, couldn’t we have some sort of party in the grounds in the afternoon with an egg and spoon race and stuff?” There was no sign of life from James as he had his head in the paper that had arrived that morning. “You have to get his attention first.” murmured Miss Forward “In fact it’s about time I taught you how to wind a gentleman round your little finger and not get pregnant.” Molly, Jessie and Gladys looked up interestedly.

Ophelia first moved behind James and gave him a gentle neck massage. He relaxed, closed his eyes and the paper dropped to the floor by the side of the chair. After some five minutes of this Ophelia progressed running her fingers lightly down his shirt and undid a couple of buttons sliding her finger tips under his shirt. Gradually she worked her way down his chest undoing another button then caressing him before moving on to the next one lower down. Jessie took a deep breath to hide her shock as Ophelia undid James’s belt before starting on his fly buttons. Before long her tongue was flickering gently up and down his length. She paused for a moment “Jessica ask your question again.” Jessica dutifully asked for the egg and spoon races and such. James hesitated not quite aware of what was being asked. “Here you take over.” Ophelia stepped to one side and Jessica knelt in front of James. “Just very lightly kiss the end then tell him you’ll finish him off if he makes the right decision on the games.” Jessica lowered her head with less finesse than Ophelia but more enthusiasm in fact Ophelia had to motion to her to stop before James started spurting. “Now ask him again.” “If we get games then I’ll finish you off.” It was more a demand than a request but James nodded anyway. Fortunately he recovered quickly enough that Gladys could try her hand as well. Of course she seemed to have a natural ability to sense just what James’s reactions were and as a result Gladys was teased by her ability to get James to agree to anything so she was often asked by the others to refer questions to James.

“And just where did you learn such things? I thought governesses were supposed to be the height of respectability.” Ophelia glance round “Well if I have your promise not to spread the word beyond these four walls.” Each swore faithfully in turn before she resumed her tale. “The family had been invited to a house party so I was included to look after the children. When we arrived there were a number of children and a group were tormenting a puppy so I did my authority act you know the one that all good governesses develop to control small children and puppies.” “‘Just what do you think you’re doing!’” “Precisely, well it had the desired effect but afterwards the hostess approached my mistress and asked if she could borrow me for the next fortnight for a small project, she’d make sure my charges were well looked after and so I was lent to the hostess no questions asked. That’s when I learnt what my special project was.

Her brother had come back from the fighting but seemed to have lost his will to do anything and he was my project, chaperoned, aided and abetted by none other than her ladyship’s personal French maid I was to see if I could bring him back to the land of the living. The task was to be confidential I could tell no one about it and I haven’t until this day. He had had a very authoritarian governess whom he related to quite well and of course being in the military he’d got used to obeying orders. So her idea was I would structure his day and see if I could bring him out of his shell. It seemed a crazy idea to me but whatever for the money she was offering I was willing to try. It was Colette who noticed that when I used my authoritarian voice Lord well I’ll simply call him Albert, got a hard on, so we experimented, Colette suggested the riding crop and having him bend over to give him the full impact but really it was my voice that controlled him. We worked him turn and turn about, I structured his mornings, often we went riding together. We started with him on a leading rein believe it or not but gradually he started to take a bit more interest, and whilst I planned out his next day’s activities in the afternoon Collette structured his afternoons. One day she had him dress up in ladies clothing, another she spent the entire afternoon in bed with his head between her thighs. Collette taught me how to arouse him with my mouth to save getting in the family way. We certainly brought him out of his shell. Eventually as my employers were about to return home and I was given the choice to stay on or return. I opted to return but was given a very nice thank you present that should keep me very comfortable in my old age. His sister introduced him to one of those horse mad young ladies who liked to train them personally and I heard Colette joined them when they got married as his wife’s personal maid.”

“Gather round girls, Jane’s Great Aunt has arranged for you all to visit London. Now you know we haven’t enough money or the connections for a season but we thought you might like to visit London and see a play and all the ton in their finery.” The speaker had a blissful look about her. “I remember passing through once when I was young, so many stores and such variety and the people, well the less said the better I’m sure you’ll have your own impressions. Anyway you’ll be visiting a Mrs. Corbet who is a housekeeper to a great lord but she writes he’s normally in the country at this time of year so you’ll be passed off as extra staff but don’t worry you won’t have to work very much unless there is a grand dinner when its all hands to the deck. Now I’ve spoken to your parents and they are agreeable. To keep expenses down Sam the carter will drop you off at the estate then you’ll travel by the estate wagon carrying fresh food into London.” The three girls all clapped their hands and did a little jig. “You did it ma, you did it.” “Well there isn’t as much money for you to take as I’d like but at least you’ll see the sights. Now your pa wants you to visit the London warehouses and choose the material for the shop to carry for next season. He’s hopeful of getting some bargains so don’t let him down.”

Gladys saw them coming through the kitchen door, three ex-soldiers by the look of them who’d seen better days. She rather fancied the one in the middle. They knocked and Gladys bade them “Come in and sit yourselves down.” Then she took a ladle and ladled them out a plate of stew each and put a plate of bread in front of them. “Ex-soldiers looking for work are you?” The one who‘d been in the middle nodded as they stuffed the food down them as if they hadn’t eaten for a day or two. “I’ll go and see if we’ve room for you but we let go most of the staff two weeks ago.” They looked so crest fallen as she left them until she turned and gave them a smile as she slipped out the door.

She found James in the library and without a word knelt down before him and ran her fingers up his thighs until she could undo his fly buttons. He looked up from his ledgers. “Let me guess you want me to agree to something.” She lifted her head “Well I could ask you directly?” “I prefer the ritual.” Her head started to bob up and down in its normal way until she could sense he was only a moment or two from release. She raised her head. “Three ex-soldiers are in the kitchen looking for work so I said I’d ask you.” She lowered her lips once more and swallowed his sperm rather than get it on her freshly laundered pinafore. “So can they stay?” “I think so, I’d better come down to the kitchen and inspect them hadn’t I?” Gladys nodded. When he arrived in the kitchen the three men stood up at attention. “Names, rank and regiment.” “Serjeant Smythe, Corporal Ayres, and Private Gadsden of the 60th Foot, King's Royal Rifle Corps.” “At ease, I’ve no idea what you can do but you’ll make yourself useful under the command of Gladys, billet in the stable block, five shillings a week for the next three months then we’ll see how useful you’ve been. If you’re any good you’re hired for the year.” Gladys’s jaw dropped, hiring them for 365 days would give them settlement in the village. Most single labourers would be hired from the end of Michaelmas week till the beginning of the next Michaelmas so avoiding the grant of legal settlement. James turned to Gladys “You’d best see about new clothes and boots for them there should be enough material around.” He returned to the library. “So serjeant are we be having a job or no?” “It depends on pleasing the lady I’m thinking.” “I never was verry good at that you’ll not be delegating such a delicate task to me now serjeant.” Gladys looked them all up and down “Well if you’re to please me the first thing to do is put you in the bath so I can see what’s under all the grime.” “To be sure I had one only last year.” Serjeant Smythe made his presence felt, “If it’s a question of food and a bath or no food then bath time it is me lads.”

Gladys pulled out the tin bath and placed it in front of the stove. “Drop your clothes off in a pile and I’ll get you some fresh clothes from amongst the servant uniforms for the moment for when you’ve bathed.” Jessica perked up. “Do we get to look at them all in their nothings and take our pick?”

The next morning the three men came into the kitchen for their breakfast. “What have you got work wise for us this morning then?” “Depends what you can do.” “Well I laid a few hedges in my time and it looks as if you have a few that need doing.” volunteered Burt, the private. “Hedges it is and you can supervise the others to work with you.” “Wot me tell the serjeant and corporal wot to do, that’ll be a change.” Burt grinned as he said the words. Good-naturedly the three set off towards the hedges that Gladys thought needed the most urgent attention.

Chantele accompanied by three seamstresses arrived that afternoon. “Lord Baynes?” “I’m his secretary.” Chantele handed him a letter which he read then reread. “I see you are to be accorded the facilities of the house such as they are so please step inside. You have a package I’m to deliver?” One of the seamstresses stepped forward and handed what appeared to be a parcel of material. “Ophelia could you sort out some rooms, guest rooms I think and give Chantele any aid or assistance she might require.” He himself took the parcel down to the vicarage. “Looking through the books I see we have slightly underestimated what we should be giving you for tithes. I trust this will be acceptable as a make weight.” He handed the package and took his leave. “Well mama is it three fresh trout or a pair of geese?” The vicar’s wife unwrapped the package and found a half dozen dress lengths of a material suitable for morning gowns. “Well a little unusual for a tithe perhaps but they should make up nicely. Would you care for one or two?” The all important questions of who would make up the dresses or the pattern to be used would be decided after more deliberation.

Two days later Ophelia and Chantele paid Sally a visit at the vicarage. “Chantele, a dresser, is staying with us for a few days whilst her affairs are sorted out.” “Oh where are you from?” was the polite question. “Paris but these are troubled times and I have a little ennui at the moment.” “What she means is she likes to sew.” Sally wondered what it might be like to have a more fashionable frock as opposed to the more practical clothes she wore everyday. The material was brought out and Louisa’s daughter was very carefully measured. The completed dress arrived three days later about a day later as a letter requesting a certain sized maid reached Lady Buchannan.

“Towers do we have a maid who is this size?” Towers looked at the measurements. “I could arrange to find one.” An hour later a bemused maid from two houses along the terrace stood in front of Lady Buchannan. “This is Diana my lady who is the precise measurements apart from shoe size. Lady Aldridge was open to us borrowing her in exchange for your French chef for three dinners she will be giving shortly.” “Very well just arrange that I’m eating out on those evenings.” “Very good my lady, and the maid?” “She’s to join Chantele on Lord Baynes estate.” She peered the girl “She’s slight enough, have one of the grooms take up pillion within the hour.” She waved her dismissal.

When Diana arrived she was startled to be given a bathe then dressed in silken underwear then the first dress was slid over her head. “I’m a good girl I am, madam didn’t say nothing about me getting dressed up.” Chantele rattled off a stream of French and when Diana looked puzzled one of the seamstresses translated it as “You happen to be the same size as the girl we’re making these dresses for so you’re standing in for her fittings.” Diana was reassured by these words and was even happy to sew the odd seam herself.

Lady Buchannan wrote a special invitation to Garrett’s mother, the Dowager Lady Owen, inviting her to the ball Lady Buchannan was giving and suggested she might like to come up to town bringing with her any suitable young ladies to attend the ball. If anything would flush Garrett to his country estate she felt sure the sight of his mother together with suitable young ladies should do the trick nicely.

Another letter this time for the rectory was waiting at the inn when the housemaid called to see if there was any post. The missive was carried back and the rector broke the seal on the back. “How splendid, recognition at last. We’ve been invited to spend a few weeks at Forde Abbey I suspect it’s with a view to see if we might suit the living there.” “And if we don’t prefer it to our current abode at least we’ll be living at someone else’s expense.” added his wife after spending the morning doing the household accounts. When Ophelia and Chantele called later in the day the house was in an uproar with much discussion being made about whether they needed to take one or two of the maids with them, Sally was murmuring she didn’t need one rather than be saddled with young Beth who invariably pulled her hair when brushing it. “Perhaps I could be your dresser? It might be interesting to look over the Abbey and you never know someone titled might be interested in employing me.” offered Chantele which was promptly accepted by Sally as a way to avoid sharing a maid with her mother, not that she had any aspirations to being a fashionably dressed young lady.

Charity struck a chord something to do with the parish. “Miss Forward can you think where I can find a curate until something is sorted out about the living? Preferably one who isn’t connected to a noble family but who could relate more to the villagers.” Ophelia didn’t have to think hard, Matthew, Magdalen’s older brother should be finishing his studies about now. “I could give you Magdalen’s brother’s address and you could see if her brother is interested.”

Matthew arrived a week later and was delighted to hear that although he was to be curate he would be allowed to retain the customary fees for weddings and such as providing a certificate that the late deceased had been buried in a wool shroud which paid a shilling and was proof against the £5 fine for not doing so. For a wild moment he imagined himself rector of the parish which paid very well with its tithes, some parishes had vicars with the tithes going to the lord of the manner or someone else. It was certainly a fine six bed roomed vicarage and he could get used to having a carriage and five servants at his disposal. He hoped that a new appointee to rector would be delayed for a few months and even then as curate it was at least a job which for someone without connections such as himself was not always as easy to find as one might like.

He was a little worried by the visit from the church wardens in their capacity as overseers of the poor. A northern mine owner had approached them looking for apprentice miners and he was willing to take any boys or girls eight or older the parish had in care without payment as apprentices. He’d heard tales of the conditions of children working in the mines which he was sure must be exaggerated but even so he was uneasy in his mind even though it would mean a reduction in the poor rate. He’d visit the big house and see what they had to say.

Not thinking he arrived at the kitchen door at lunch time with the four children, well three were old enough to be apprentices but Joan’s younger sister always went with Joan no matter where she went.

“So you see I whilst I can’t deny it would be cheaper for the parish to have them apprenticed at no cost I can’t help feeling they’d be better off in the village.” “We ain’t got no apprentice farm labourers at the moment.” Piped in Molly looking to James. “Right then the girl can be apprenticed as a farm labourer and the boys as kitchen maids.” Ophelia glared at him and handed the children a bowl of stew each. “Oh I don’t mind, I has to bring in the cows at sun up anyway, but what about me sister? She stays with me?” “I’ll get the Parish Indentures drawn up then and sworn before the Squire as Justice of the peace. Two farm labourers for the boys, kitchen maid for Joan and possibly scullery maid for Joan’s sister?” James nodded. Gladys slipped Joan’s sister a fresh slice of bread and butter “You’ll like it here in the kitchen it’s nice and warm in winter.” Ophelia glanced at Matthew, he was looking a bit undernourished so she passed him a bowl of stew and slice of bread as well. “Any chance of the parish contributing to the apprenticeships?” “They’ll go for the cheapest option so no, and if you’re taking Joan and her sister you’re the cheapest option on the table at the moment.” James nodded glumly as Joe slipped a bit of stew to one of the sheepdogs lying under the table.

At the same time as the rector and family were leaving the rectory a second coach carried off Chantele’s three seamstresses and Diana and the all important dresses they had been preparing down to Forde Abbey where they were soon secretly established in the guest wing.

When Sally and her family arrived at Forde abbey they were greeted at the front door by a very superior butler who directed her parents into a reception room but indicated she should wait in the hall. Returning he said “I’ve asked Gillian to look after you as I’m sure you would prefer that to looking over the ecclesial matters.” Gillian stepped forward and curtsied “If you would care to follow me.” They ascended the grand staircase and Gillian led the way to a large south facing room that was warm and very comfortable with a view across the estate. “Your dressing room is through the door on the right, we have a bathing room two doors down. You must let me know if the staff can do anything to make your stay more comfortable.” “I must say I feel I’m being treated like royalty.” “Oh no Miss, royalty set the house at sixes and sevens so we generally like to place them a little further down the corridor that’s a little more inconvenient in the hope they won’t stay too long.” There was a knock at the door and a footman carrying a tea tray entered. “We thought you might like some refreshment Miss.” He placed the tray down on a nearby table and retreated.

Later Gillian gave her a full tour of the house. It seemed immaculately maintained and the staff seemed delighted to explain their duties and talk to her about their part of the house. Sally was surprised when she was taken down to tour the kitchens as well. “Ah mademoiselle Sally, could you sample these three dishes for me?” “Which do you prefer?” “And these three.” “Ah bon.” Gillian whispered to her “You’ll have to forgive Phillipe’s obsessiveness about everyone’s tastes.” At the stables the head groom gave her some apple slices, “Jenny hasn’t been exercised as much as she should be recently, if you like her she can be made available whenever you wish.” Sally was delighted with Jenny and Jenny was delighted with anyone who fed her slices of apple.

 That evening at dinner she met a member of the family for the first time. “I’m Lady Damara the present Earl’s great aunt, I understand you’re here to inspect the living, have you visited Lower Puddington, it’s very handy for the Cathedral. I’ll arrange for someone to take you to the rectory tomorrow and you can meet the locals. Stay for a few days to get to know the place. Perhaps your daughter would like to remain here to keep me company whilst you sort things out?”

Next morning Gillian arrived with three cups of hot chocolate. “I thought I’d bring one up for Chantele and myself.” Sally was startled for a moment, the idea of drinking chocolate with the servants still her mother would never find out. “Well yes that sounds like a good idea. When would Lady Damara like me to attend her this morning?” Chantele came in and sipped her cup of chocolate. “I don’t think she would really, if you have dinner with her that will keep her happy. This morning she’s doing something mysterious in the greenhouse.” The three sat round drinking their chocolate. “I could take you for a conducted tour of the estate on horseback if you like?” Sally nodded her agreement and Chantele disappeared only to return with two riding outfits. “These are split skirts if you’d care to try them so you can ride astride.” “Really I can’t think what mother would say. I don’t know if I dare.” “It’s only on the estate and your mother is away. Let’s try them out, they have to be more respectable than breeches and a long coat which is what I wear sometimes when riding. We can stop off for a bite to eat at the kitchen on the way down.”

That evening Sally was surprised when Gillian joined Lady Damara and herself at dinner. “We are a little more informal when it’s just family and Gillian can bring me up to date with estate matters. Thinking of which I feel we should have a small informal dance to entertain our guest, Gillian could you arrange it, not on the weekend of the full moon as everyone arranges their entertainments then but perhaps the weekend before so there will be some moonlight but not enough to encourage people to travel too far so just nearby locals I think and yourself of course. Not the Saturday either, just in case we want to dance a few minutes beyond midnight, we must be sensitive to Sally father’s position. I think we could manage fifteen couples to dine first though.”

Jane was throughly enjoying her time in London, Mrs. Corbet had supplied a footman plainly dressed to escort them since she thought that a liveried footman might draw too much attention. Jane and her two companions drew many admiring looks as they promenaded through the London parks even with their escort and often an off-duty footman would come along as well. Accompanied by Mrs. Corbet Jane carefully selected material for her father’s store. Mrs. Corbet looked thoughtfully at the wholesale prices Jane was obtaining suggested buying a few extra yards of fine dress material and something suitable for the staff all of which was paid for with a draft drawn on Jane’s father’s bank. “You don’t think he’ll mind?” asked Harriette “No he won’t mind too much I’m still well below budget as the prices are much better than I’d expected.” They had one of the footmen with them so carrying the extra material back wasn’t an issue. When they returned to the house Mrs. Corbet disappeared returning with a lady’s maid from three doors down. “So could you make something up in the first stir of fashion?” The maid looked over the three girls and then the material before nodding. “I’ve always thought that every young girl who comes to London should have at least one fashionable evening gown made up and Yvette has consented to make you one each in return for two dress lengths for her charge who is coming out this year.” A London evening gown, the girls were thrilled even if they didn’t have a chance to wear them it would be something to remind them of their time in London.

One dreary afternoon Jane entertained her friends on the piano in the music room. She was impressed with the Broadwood and with its six full octaves rather than the five octave piano they had at home but it took a little getting used to. Mrs. Corbet slipped into the room and sat at the back to enjoy the impromptu concert before it was time for the three girls to return home.

That evening two of Garrett’s friends descended on him through dense brown fog that looked as if it was about to turn into a real pea souper. “Master Garrett you’re never going out in that, not tonight. I’ll have cook prepare your dinner at home.” “We’re off to a musical evening tonight to admire the ladies.” Joked one of his friends. Mrs. Corbet thought quickly, “Well that’s not a problem dinner will be served with three young ladies and you can have a concert afterwards. Now have a glass of sherry whilst I get cook organised.”

She dashed upstairs to Jane’s room where she found the three girls “It’s foggy out so I thought it best if his Lordship was to eat at home tonight. So you’re dining with his Lordship and two male friends tonight so best get your new evening gowns on. I’ll send Mary to help you dress.”

The three girls made their way downstairs and into the drawing room where they were met by Garrett and his two friends who each had a glass of sherry in their hands. There was a noticeable silence which the girls correctly interpreted as the three gentlemen were too stunned for words. “Do we get a glass of sherry too?” Jane asked politely. “Gosh yes where are my manners, Garrett were you hoping to keep these three beauties to yourself?” “I’ve never met them before.” His housekeeper arrived “Jane, Jessie and Harriette are to be treated with respect and you are not to fill them with Sherry and Madeira do you understand.” Garrett nodded carefully and his housekeeper left. “However I’m sure one glass of Sherry before our meal and a glass of wine with it would be most welcome my lord.” added Harriet daringly. The three girls were in the mood to be admired and the three gentlemen were in an admiring mood. Jane wondered if they would be able to keep their end of the conversation going over the meal but Jessie soon proved that a few well chosen questions soon had the boys boasting of their prowess in driving their curricules and riding their horses. After the meal they all moved into the music room and had an impromptu concert, Jane played for them, each member in turn performed their piece and if Jessie’s was a song that was a bit on the warm side no one really minded. Harriet curled up in Dominick’s lap and gently kissed him to see if a title made any difference to a kiss. Jessie curled up in Warwick’s lap and Jane sat and talked to Garrett. Eventually at four o’clock in the morning Dominick and Warwick thought they really should go home and staggered off to bed.

“Good morning my lord.” “Upshall is it really before noon?” “It is indeed my lord.” “Upshall why have you awoken me at this ungodly hour? and it had better be good mind if you don’t wish to find yourself on the street tout suite.” “Your mother and two protégées arrived earlier this morning so I’ve packed and ordered your carriage to be ready in the mews with your luggage and a hamper from the kitchens my Lord unless you’d prefer to wait and attend your mother.” “Good lord no, backstairs clear?” “Yes my lord, Mrs. Corbet is feeding them refreshments in the breakfast room as we speak.” “Upshall you’re a life saver.”

“Hurry girls there is a coach leaving for the estate in a few minutes just grab your things and go and sit in the coach.” To travel back by coach rather than in the estate wagon would be a rare treat. The girls jumped out of bed clambered into their skirts and blouses, things were stuffed haphazardly in bags before running downstairs to the coach. Once inside hair brushes came out and they rearranged themselves.

Garrett climbed into the coach and was surprised to find the three maids he’d dined with the previous evening sat in a row with their backs to the horses. He raised his eyebrow in question at Upshall. “Mrs. Corbet’s instructions were to return these three to the country before your mother decided they were too pretty to be maids.” Garrett nodded “Besides we’d had our visit to the London and seen all the sights so its time to go home.” Added Jane. “We’ve managed to get to Astley's Amphitheatre of Equestrian Arts, to the Exchange to see the animals, to climb the Monument all the way to the top and to see the ravens at the Tower of London.” added Harriette. Jane looked at Garrett “I think he’d appreciate hearing all about it at another time, he looks as sleepy as we feel.” Everyone curled up under their travelling rugs and tried to doze.” Garrett looked up to see Jane and Jessie looking distinctly green. “Perhaps if we rearrange ourselves so you two have the two window seats facing forwards?” He lowered the window a fraction at the same time to let in a bit of fresh air. Harriette declared she was comfortable where she was so Garrett ended up with Jane and Jessie on the seat with him in the middle. Upshall moved to take the corner with his back to the horses. “Or would you prefer this corner my Lord?” he hesitantly asked. Jessie placed her hand on his arm under the travelling rug. “I’d prefer it if you stayed here to keep me warm.” Jane nodded in agreement and the journey continued with Garrett slipping his arm round Jessie’s shoulders and Jessie sliding her hand down possessively over his thigh under cover of the rug.

Dominick presented himself at Garrett’s London home the next morning with his curricle hoping to tempt Harriette with a drive in the park. “Good morning Wexley.” He greeted Garrett’s butler at the door, “I’ve come to offer Harriette a drive round the park.” “Oh how delightful Sir. I’ll just get my bonnet.” Dominick looked confused at the quite different young lady who was apparently called Harriette who had just turned to fetch her bonnet. Wexley took pity on him, “I believe the other young ladies have left for the country estate early this morning shortly after the young master’s mother arrived with two proteges.” He continued in a slightly louder voice “Unfortunately the Master left for the country before he could meet his mother’s delightful guests.”

“Are you quite sure you don’t want me to save you a dance or two?” The false Harriette asked as they tooled round the park. Dominick kept his head down and pretended not to see one or two friends in the parade, the one who he stopped and spoke to before thinking since he had arranged a race with the following day he introduced her as one of Lady Owen’s proteges then mentioned he had an urgent appointment out of town the next day so the race would need to be postponed. “But you’ll miss the ball.” “Can’t be helped I’m afraid business before pleasure.” “What a terribely strange thing to say.” She fluttered her eyelashes at him in a very practised way. He tooled her back before returning to his rooms and packing a bag with clothing suitable for the country and was soon on his way stopping only when it grew dark to have dinner and stay the night at a wayside inn.

“Are you one of my mother’s protégées?” Garrett asked as he saw Sally curled up with a book in the library. She looked up from reading Evelina, “Well I might be who is she?” “The Dowager Lady Owen?” “No I can’t say I’ve met her.” “Thank heavens for that. Who are you?” “I’m Sally, my parents are looking over the living at Upper Puddington or was it Lower? Anyway with a view to seeing if they like each other.” There was a tap at the door and Hendricks walked in carrying a tea tray. “I thought you might care for some refreshment Miss.” Garrett looked on with amazement, he’d never known Hendricks demean himself to carry a tea tray to a guest before, nor had he seen any of those fancy cakes outside of the housekeeper’s room before either. “Tea perhaps there is a spare cup for you and we seem to have even more tiny cakes than usual this morning.” Garrett sat himself down and quickly swallowed two of the cakes shaken by the way the staff seemed to have accepted Sally. “I’d better retire before someone thinks I’ve compromised you by being alone with you.” “On no need Gillian is chaperoning me somewhere.” Gillian raised herself from her arm chair that had been facing towards the window and gave him a curtsey. “Good morning my Lord, father will be expecting you to call on him.” Sally raised an eyebrow and Gillian giggled, “Oh dear I didn’t express that very well did I? I should explain my father is Garrett’s steward and is looking forward to discussing sheep with him rather than anything else, although I’m certain he’d be willing to listen to an offer.” she teased smilingly.

Garrett was a little shaken by the fact that Gillian seemed happy to be Sally’s chaperon, although she was officially part of the staff she was as she said his steward’s daughter and was far more likely to be found assisting with the accounts or out inspecting the estate than in the house acting the part of a maid.

“I understand there is to be an informal dance with dinner beforehand on Friday my lord.” “How informal?” “Very the invitations went out before anyone knew you would be present.” “Ah you mean only local families, well it won’t do to slight them by not being present and if the county set aren’t present so much the better. We’ll delay our departure for a few days then Upshall and attend.” “Very good my lord, I’ll let Gillian know since she is organising it.”

“Dominick how wonderful to see you. Was I expecting you?” “No I just dropped by I’m visiting my great Aunt in the neighbourhood.” “A mere thirty miles away?” Dominick grinned, “Well I thought I’d drop by and see how Harriette was.” “I’d best call Gillian as I’m not certain where she is.” When Gillian came she glanced at Dominick and grinned. “Caught a London beau has she? I’ll better guide you to her home.”

Harriette’s father opened the front door and took in Dominic at a glance. “Welcome lad welcome. Come to see Harriette have you well step this way.” He led the way down the hall and into the kitchen where Harriette wearing her oldest dress covered with a large apron and her hair covered with a cap was busy baking. At the sight of Dominic she froze, “Likes to cook and bake does our Harriette.” He cut two generous slices of sponge cake that was cooling on the table and handed one to Dominic, “Try a bit lad.” As Dominic tried the cake he continued “Have you a job then?” Dominic shook his head, “Well never you mind Harriette’s hand comes with a pair of looms so the pair of you won’t starve. I’d like to fire her off before her sister becomes of age. Less difficulty keeping track of suitors that way.” He glanced at his daughter who was becoming very flushed. “I’ll just pop out and do a spot of gardening whilst you two settle matters between you.” “Father!” As he slipped out the door he called back “I think she needs a reassuring hug.” “I’ll kill him, what are you doing here anyway?” “Well as your father mentioned having no job your pair of looms will save us from starving.” “Oh be serious for a moment and be careful you’ll get covered in flour.” Dominic kissed her anyway. “You can’t want to kiss me I’m in my oldest dress and looking like the wreck of the Hesperus.” He beamed down at her “You look perfectly wonderful to me. Besides I adore sponge cake.” They were just in the middle of a kiss when Hesper her young sister came through the door, “Harry why does father say I have to be on my best behaviour and why are you kissing that man?” “We’re getting married shortly.” “So?” “People who are about to get married have to kiss its obligatory.” “Yuk I’m never going to get married and who’s had a slice of cake before me?”

Harriette’s father came through the door “Sorry about Hesper, have you decided if you’re staying for supper and if you want the banns read this Sunday? We can put you up in Harriette’s room” Harriette turned a deep shade of red at this “Harriette can always sleep in with Hesper.” “No that’s all right I can beg a bed at the manor, besides my valet likes his French cuisine and they have a French chef up there but I’d like to accept an invitation to sup with you tonight.” “Are we getting married?” “Well if you’ll have me, I’m only a younger son but I have a small estate that will keep us from starving.” She put her head to one side in a questioning manner “Well I suppose the only way to get more kisses will be to marry you so yes, shall we tell father he can get the banns called then?” He nodded and kissed her again.

Sally was more shaken by meeting Garrett than she let on and that evening before dressing for dinner she asked Chantele which dress she should wear looking through the meagre collection she’d brought with her. “To impress I take it?” Sally nodded distractedly. “I suggest you bathe first to relax yourself then I’ll lay something suitable out on the bed.” Sally did as she was told and came back to discover a charming evening gown laid out for her inspection. “It looks perfect but should I wear it? Where did it come from?” Chantele shrugged her shoulders and replied in rapid French dressing Sally as she did so. Finally Sally looked in the mirror and saw not a rector’s daughter but a beautifully gowned lady. She decided not to ask any more questions but to simply enjoy the evening.

The next morning once more gowned in a frock she hadn’t seen before she was sat eating breakfast when Garrett arrived and picked up a plate. Hendricks entered the breakfast room and cleared his throat addressing Sally, “The stables were wondering if you’d like Jenny saddled up since it’s such a pleasant day and she is in need of exercise.” Sally replied “That would be a marvellous idea.” “Have them saddle up Badger for me as well.” added Garrett.

At the stables Garrett watched as first Badger then Jenny and Pascoe were led out. “Won’t the ladies require side saddles?” he remarked to the groom. The groom grinned “I can change them fast enough if need be.” Then Sally strolled forth from the kitchen door dressed in her new riding habit and stepped on to the mounting block as the groom brought her mare alongside. She quickly swung her leg over and moved forward so Gillian could mount her mare. Gillian followed suit, and glancing over her shoulder at Garrett “I think we’ve shocked him in our divided skirts. Chantele produced them, I think they’re very practical but I’m sure they’ll be the talk of the neighbourhood if anyone should see us.” Garrett looked up at them, from one side their skirt looked almost like a normal riding skirt but from the other it looked the same. He shook his head as the groom led Badger to the mounting block and then they were off riding together.

The day was pleasant and Sally’s parents were due back from Little Puddington the next day so Gillian suggested a picnic carrying food in saddle bags to which the other two agreed.

Gillian heard the moans and thought she really ought to be playing chaperon, so sat up and glanced at the two lovers. “So is it to be banns or special licence then you two?” “What?” “Well you can hardly expect no one to gossip when Sally looks thoroughly kissed and you both go back with bruised lips. Every maid in the house will know what’s been happening. If your mother finds out you’re rusticating she’ll descend on us with half a dozen mindless blondes to tempt you.” “Oh lord.” “Let’s face it she’s the best of the lot and the staff like her.” “Oh well I suppose it had better be Lower Puddington’s living and Sally’s hand at least that way we won’t see them every Sunday.” “Do I get any say in this?” asked Sally quietly. “Oh we’ll let you say I do at the appropriate time.” Sally launched herself at him and pummelled him with her fists. “Would you like a riding crop as well?” asked Gillian helpfully. Laughing Garrett slipped his arms round her and kissed her ignoring the kicks she was dealing at his shins. “Will you do me the honour of accepting my hand in marriage?” “Maybe.” “Only maybe? What about my reputation?”

Eventually they reached an agreement and trooped off back to the house.

Isabel rode by on Thursday morning as promised and slowly she and James rode around the estate. At first she seemed a little tense around him but over time she started to relax in his presence. Certainly the cottagers were pleased to see her as they knew the squire’s estate cottages were kept in better repair than their own and she could explain to James what was needed or more importantly which task or repair needed to be done first. Sometimes Isabel would suggest that if the materials were supplied the cottagers might do the repairs themselves rather than wait for the estate carpenter to get round to it. James arranged for the estate carpenter to have an assistant as it became apparent the list of repairs was more extensive than he’d first thought. They had a list of general priorities that had been drawn up by her father but this got refined as they took local needs, desires and resources available into account. As they left the last cottage behind she turned to him “Well finally after two weeks of riding round the estate that’s all the cottages seen to, we’ve noted all the hedges that need laying, I think we deserve the rest of the day off and I’ve a picnic lunch for two tied on the back of my saddle and I know of a nice shady spot down by the stream.” “Sounds delightful lead on.”

They sat side by side and had cold chicken, a pork pie, an apple each washed down with a swig of cider. It was a warm day and James lay back on the grassy bank. Isabel lay down besides resting her head on his shoulder and they both were content in companionable silence. It was James who woke up first and was touched to find Isabel curled up asleep on his shoulder. He felt flattered she trusted him enough to fall asleep on his shoulder. He lent across and kissed her gently on the forehead. “Wake up sleeping beauty.” “Oh my did we fall asleep?” “Just a little afternoon doze.” She lazily pulled his head down and kissed him on the lips. “Don’t you dare tell my mother I’ve slept with you whatever you do. She still has ambitions about me marrying some prince or other who will arrive at the garden gate, ask for a glass of water then be so struck by my beauty he marries me out of hand.” “And your ambitions for a husband?” She tilted her head to one side and thought about it. “Someone kind like you perhaps? You taste nice anyway.” She jumped up “We’d best get back before a Royal prince arrives at the garden gate asking for his glass of water. Mother wouldn’t like me to miss him.”

Ophelia enjoyed riding and on her half day off she paused on the way back from her sister’s to past the time of day with old Mr. Sutton. “Nice weather we’re having.” She spoke slowly and loudly to him. “It is that but I’m getting too old for this game now Nelly has died. I was thinking a nice warm cottage will do me better than the farm house but beggars can’t be choosers and the farm isn’t doing quite as well as it could. Have a think and see if you can find someone to buy me out young lady.” “You could mention it down the pub?” “What and have the entire village know what I’m thinking. Besides which I’m in a better bargaining position if they come to me. Why don’t you find yourself a nice young man and settle down?” Ophelia poked a very unlady like tongue out at him and he had the audacity to laugh at her.

When she returned she found Jessica and Gladys looking very serious together with another girl who could only be Jessica’s sister. “Oh miss we don’t know what to do Charlotte’s been turned off as a lady’s maid.” “What happened?” “I was sick in the morning at breakfast for two days running, its early days yet but the housekeeper suspected I was in the family way, so I was turned off.” “Do you know who the father is?” “One of the visiting London swells who came courting my mistress’s sister, but he don’t want to know, I’m ruined.” James had stepped in behind Ophelia “It doesn’t show at the moment and I’m certain Ophelia could do with a lady’s maid so that’s the short term.” “I should never have taken the post, I was in two minds about it but Jack didn’t have any immediate prospects and I thought I could put something away in my bottom drawer.” “You mean Jack what’s learning his trade from the Squire’s steward.” “Yes but he’ll never look at me now.” “I don’t understand how you could.” exasperated Charlotte turned to James, “Kiss her, and fondle her breasts.” James looked at her, “It’s for her own good if she doesn’t know what to expect or how treacherous her body can be, she’ll be ripe like me.” Charlotte accepted the kiss and was a little hesitant when James slipped cupped her breast in his hand. “Remember he’s your boss, you’re conditioned to do whatever he says.” Jessica bowed her head and placed her hand over James. Charlotte let them cuddle for a full thirty minutes. “Now tell me what you’re craving for.” “Something in me. I never dreamt the feeling could be so strong.” “Finish her off nicely with your tongue on the rug.”

Ophelia slipped out the door, and mounting her cob cantered over to see Mr. Belthorpe. “Good day to you Sir could I have a word in private?” He nodded her into his office. “Sit thyself down lass and let’s be hearing what’s trouble.” “Mr. Sutton would like to sell up and I thought that Jack might be the ideal person to go over the farm and see what the value of his stock and tools would be.” “And young lady?” “And Charlotte’s been turned off after one of the London swells had taken advantage of her so if Jack was to take on the tenancy and Charlotte.” “Well I’d miss him no mistake but yes I’m agreeable but it has to be what he wants to do mind.” “I thought if he looked over the farm for a start we could cross the other bridges as they come up.” Mr. Belthorpe nodded, “I’d best tell the wife but no one else for the moment. Off you go and look after your side of things.”

“Jack can you do a valuation / inventory of Sutton’s farm over the next few days?” “Is he thinking of giving up the tenancy then?” “There’s a possibility but the first step is to see what his stock and so forth are worth and keep it to yourself. Just let Mr. Burges know the round figure.” “I’ll make a start today.”

“Well looking things over you’ve a fair bit of fixture and fittings besides the cattle and sheep. You know if I had the money I wouldn’t mind running this farm myself.” “It’ll need at least two of you lad, I should know things were a lot easier when Nelly was around.”

Jack rode round to the stables and after leaving his mount with a groom entered the kitchen door to ask after Mr. Burges. “Oh you mean James, why don’t you take a mug of tea and go and sit in the sitting room whilst I find him for you.” Charlotte was quickly found and sent to entertain Jack whilst they persuaded James to leave his ledgers for a moment or two. “Charlotte I hadn’t heard you were back?” “Well back but with child so I’m keeping a very low profile.” “How did it happen?” “One of the London swells. I wish I’ve never left to be honest I only did it to save a bit of money up for us.” They sat holding hands not saying a word which is as James found them when he walked in twenty minutes later. “So how much would Sutton be after for his fixture and fittings then?” Jack named a fair price, “Well I’ll need someone to pay the rent for the farm, are you willing to take it on?” “I haven’t the money.” “It’s Charlotte’s dowery if you’ll take them both.” The couple looked at each other. “Do you mean it?” “What would Lord Baynes say?” “He’d say I have the authority and rely on my judgement and I suspect if he was to write to whichever London swell it was parents they might be willing to contribute a mite to the cost of bringing up the child.” Jack and Charlotte hung together in a blissful hug. “I take it as a yes then.” James commented as he slipped out the room.

Ophelia read the letter out loud from Chantele, “Lady Buchannan’s success in finding a match for Garrett has made her feel young again and she feels she wants to continue the good work. She’s already discovered which solicitor Lord Baynes has instructed and her spies have identified one of solicitor’s clerks who might be open to a bit of female flattery. One of the maids has been instructed to get friendly with him.” She paused and looked round at the others. “If I was a betting women I wouldn’t put much on Lord Baynes chances of remaining undiscovered for long.” James sought to change the subject. “Gladys can you find me a shepherd? Young Joe has decided he’d prefer to be apprenticed to a shepherd so he’ll need a married shepherd to board him.” “Which cottage would they get?” “Which one would you like? And I’ll throw in the pair of dogs purely to keep young Joe company since he’s so keen on them.” James returned to his ledgers and Gladys looked puzzled for a moment. Ophelia whispered to her “Don’t forget a good shepherd makes as much as butler so how does Gladys Smythe sound? ” Gladys opened her eyes wide “If Smythe was married would he do?” “Well he’s a quick learner, so yes I suppose so, but only if he’s married mind.” “I’ll just slip out to the stables.”

Next morning James took the trap out of the stables which was unusual as he normally preferred to ride, Ophelia couldn’t help feeling something was happening so had Jed saddle up her cob and she discreetly trailed him to the rectory where she saw Matthew join him in the trap. Then they trundled on to the Squire’s steward’s cottage.

Isabel was in the side garden cutting lavender to dry, James paused by her whilst Matthew wondered round to the kitchen. “You’re looking very pretty today.” Isabel looked at him, she was in her old gardening dress for heavens sake, either he was after something or he was besotted. “What are you after?” “Oh I thought your hand in marriage.” Isabel frowned, “Mother had hopes of a title, there’s a rumour of an unmarried baron only seven miles away. For my part I’d be delighted but we’ll see what dad says I don’t want to be estranged from them.” She lent forward and kissed him on the cheek and led him by the hand into her father’s study.

“Oh dear trouble with the two of you holding hands.” He looked at James “Have you told her your full name?” “Not yet.” “You’d better have before I give my approval, marrying out of class can be a problem.” “Dad I didn’t think you were such a snob. I know James works for his living but he’s quite well educated.” “You could call him Lord Baynes rather than James.” “Oh Lord.” “How did you guess?” “A secretary would have had to think before agreeing to buy a bull and a ram. I assume you have a special license?” James nodded. “Isabel I think you need to change your dress and be downstairs in ten minutes to be married.” “I can’t get married in ten minutes time.” “How long do you think it will be before the Squire’s wife catches on? I give her thirty minutes then she’ll be here and I’ll be out on the street.” “I’ll be down in five.” “We’ll wait for you in the front parlour.” “I could use a good steward myself if you need a place.” Dad stepped into the kitchen. “May slip out and grab any of the workers you can see and bring them all into the parlour fast as you can, the rest of you in the parlour if you please and that includes you Matthew and Ophelia. Mother if you could slip upstairs to Isabel’s room I think she’d appreciate it.” Something was happening they could sense it in the air.

Isabel scrambled into her best dress and hastily ran down stairs followed by her bewildered mother. “Right now we’re all assembled Matthew I’d like you to perform the marriage ceremony between my daughter and Lord Baynes.” Matthew looked startled, “I haven’t got my bible with me nor have we read the banns.” James passed him the special license and the family bible was quickly found. “This seems most irregular milord.” “Just remember the living is mine to bestow where I will and that the Squire’s daughter will be unhappy when she hears about it so the quicker the better.” “Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here today in the presence of these witnesses..”

After the very short but legal ceremony the happy couple slipped out to James’s trap and Ophelia approached Matthew kissing him on the lips. “Oh dear how very forward of me. Just think of the Squire’s daughter itching to get her hands on the vicarage.” He looked thoughtfully at her “I could read the banns on Sunday.” “Hadn’t you better ask the squire’s daughter first?” He looked puzzled for a moment “I should have proposed to you first shouldn’t I?” She stood there waiting expectantly “So will you marry me?” “Oh my how unexpected, still I’d better say yes so I can get a few more kisses hadn’t I?” This time Matthew kissed her properly. “You know the old saying things run in threes I wonder who the third will be.” “Oh that’s easy Gladys came to see me early this morning about having the banns read.”