The Parlourmaid by Karen Blayne

Oh by the way red tape first.

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. ©2019

Luv Karen

Lord Sinclair sat on his horse on the hill top and looked over his estate. Pity they’d not been blessed with a son. The title would go to a distance relative but not the money and the estate they’d stay in the family and hopefully his daughter would marry sometime and bear him a grandchild or two. He could see the new canal being dug, somehow he thought it would never be finished and the cost so far, he shook his head. No they’d run out of money that was for certain. He looked across the Earl’s estate, his own steward itched to bring in new methods but he couldn’t afford to buy the Earl out. Especially if Gilly was to have her season. He wasn’t so sure about it but his wife was getting adamant where else was Gilly to find someone suitable.

Jed looked round the inn and saw an old acquaintance, barely that really he’d been two years above him at school. Now what was his name? Slade that was it. He walked across to greet him but Slade was looking glum. “Do you remember me?” Slade looked up “Jenkins?” “Got it in one. You’re looking a bit down?” “My patron put two thousand down on a sure thing. It would have been as well but he came down at the lost fence.” “So?” “We’re out of funds old chap. A canal three quarters built and no money to complete it.” “How much do you need?” “Ideally twenty grand. If the horse would have come in at ten to one we could finish the job. If he’d just handed the money over I could probably finish the job somehow.” Well he had funds, the family manufactory had just been sold to a competitor for a very nice price who thought they could combine the two works and hoped the markets would remain buoyant. He’d seen expansion plans go astray before as unforseen problems sent the costs spiralling up.

“Is your backer broke? No but he’s only got the estate now and the rent money coming in so he won’t starve but there’s many a workman that will.” “If I can find you ten grand could it be finished?” “Chancy, you need a contingency fund.” “We could talk to your patron and see if he’ll sell his share? How much has he put in so far?” “You mean how much has he spent?” “Exactly.” “One hundred and thirty one thousand two hundred and thirty two pounds plus a few shillings. Originally it was estimated to cost seventy five thousand but that was before the project hit a few problems and I took over.” “Offer to buy him out for sixty thousand and see what he says. I’d like to check on the progress first of course.” Slade brightened up. “I’ll see him first thing in the morning.”

Eventually Jed ended up with sixty percent of the shares of the new company that owned the canal. The original owner had accepted twenty percent and the workforce and suppliers had accepted another twenty percent in lieu of wages and supplies. Jed crossed his fingers and hoped his faith in Slade wasn’t misplaced but he’d always seemed sensible and seemed to understand the business of building canals. He let him get on with building the canal apart from monthly progress meetings.

“Bloody workers trouble is they’ve built canals before and know what to look out for. It’s Mr. Slade are we doing this and Mr. Slade how are we tackling that until I don’t know if I’m coming or going sometimes. Still with their money on the line they have come up with a few ideas that save time and effort including putting off building the lock keeper’s cottages until the canal is completed. It’s going faster than I expected though.”

Together they’d held back money to meet any contingencies but the canal was proceeding much more smoothly as the workers anticipated problems before they arose. Mentally Jed had a contingency fund as well as the one Slade knew about which meant for the moment Jed was short of cash. His inheritance was now either all tied up in the canal, the contingency fund and in a farm with water logged fields he’d brought up cheap on the canal’s route. The large farm house wasn’t bad but he needed funds to hire workers to drain the fields down to where the canal would be and for that he had to wait until the canal paid its first dividend and the contingency fund was no longer needed.

“So now you’ve come into your inheritance my lord have you given a thought to what you’d like to do?” Lord Haskett thought for a moment. “At the moment, get a away from London. There are too many unmarried girls and their mothers around.” “True but having them all in one place gives you a more choice.” “Three dances before getting engaged is hardly getting to know them. No I thought I’d buy a horse or possibly a pair and just go north and admire the countryside. I’d heard the lake district is very attractive.” “Lord Sinclair breeds them and is on your way north. You could do worse than have a look.” “Let me guess he has an unmarried daughter?” “Most do but you might find Gilly more interesting than many. Now I’ll write you a letter of introduction and you can carry my latest report back to him which will save the postage.”

Lord Haskett decided to catch the mail to the nearest town then see about transport once he got there. There was nothing much to keep him in London despite having received a stack of invitations to balls and routs. Strange how they’d started to arrive the day after he’d been invited to the solicitors to find out something to his advantage. They set off in the evening and travelled through the night taking advantage of less traffic on the highways.

After the second night on the mail catching sleep when he could Lord Haskett was half asleep when he was dropped off at seven o’clock in the morning at the Red Lion. At least he could have breakfast there. By nine o’clock unshaven and bleary eyed he rode up to the big house with his bag tied on behind the saddle. He rode round to the stables and a groom took his horse recognising it as one from the Red Lion. “I’m after buying a horse and I have some letters for Lord Sinclair.” He said simply to the head groom. Gilly came up behind him dressed in an old riding outfit. “I can show him what is available before dad comes out to discuss price if you like.” The head groom passed the letters to an underling and they were conveyed back to the house.

“Bring out Tick.” She commanded and a groom ran to obey her command. Out came Tick, a very large splendid Shire horse. Lord Haskett gave her a look. “Something smaller perhaps?” She asked innocently teasing him. “I should have said I’m interested in a riding horse for myself shouldn’t I?” “I have ridden Tick before now but only when harnessed to Tock and pulling a full hay wagon and I must confess that was when I was younger.” “And not a grey hair showing.” Gilly frowned at him. “Being more serious are you after a string of hunters or just something to hack?” “Something to hack I think.” “Tom bring out Eclipse and Rós saddled.” She turned back to him I think the best thing to do is to go for a ride then I can see if Eclipse would suit you. I suspect he will but we have others.” They mounted up and clattered out of the yard.

Inside the crumpled letters were transferred to a footman who in turn turned them over to the butler. The butler looked at them doubtfully they seemed a bit battered to him but he dutifully placed them on a silver tray and delivered them to his lordship. “Who delivered these?” “I’m not sure my Lord but I think he mentioned wanting to buy a horse.” His lordship read through the letters. “Take these to her ladyship. He’ll be staying at least one night and send Jane to me.”

Jane the parlour maid had been having a cup of tea in the servants’ hall but immediately left it half drunk whilst she hurried as quickly as possible to see what his Lordship desired.

“Ah Jane, Lord Haskett arrived a few minutes ago. He should be around the stableyard. Find Gilly and get her to put on a pretty dress before she meets him. See if you can persuade him to stay a day or two. I’m sure you know what to do. If he and Gilly make a match of it it’ll save the bother and expense of a season.” Jane curtsied and excused herself looking for Gilly’s maid, Lucy, who had been in the servants’ hall earlier.

“A Lord Haskett has come to buy a horse. Lord Sinclair feels it is an opportunity sent from heaven to get Gilly married off. So his Lordship commands get her into a pretty dress before she meets him.” “She went out for a ride.” The two girls looked at each other. “They might not have met yet?” “I’d best get out to the stables.” “And I’d better get out there as well. I’m to persuade him to stay for a day or two.” “Well don’t get in the family way.” “In this house it’s more get the way of the family.” The two girls left chattering and walked down to the stables.

“Dan have you seen Gilly at all?” “She went off with the gent who wanted to buy a horse to see how he rode.” “Oh bloody hell.” “You go back and go through her dresses. I’ll send her to you when she gets back and I’ll stay and see what I can do to persuade him to stay a while.”

Lady Sinclair rushed to her husband. “What do we need to do to keep him around until Gilly can catch his interest?” “It’s in hand. I’ve had Barnes organise a room and set Jane to persuade him to stay.” “Yes if anyone could do it Jane could but I don’t want Gilly eclipsed.” “Dresses?” “Nothing special you know what she’s like but I’ll speak to Lucy and see what we can come up with.”

“So what do you think of him?” “I’m buying a horse so you can’t expect me to sing his praises before we settle on a price.” Gilly laughed. “And I thought I could nudge the price up by twenty pounds without you noticing. Race you to the Oak tree in the distance?” “You’re on!” Gilly dashed off without warning and Eclipse took off hard after her. They raced across the field and were neck and neck until Eclipse just nosed ahead. “You let me win?” “You mean to nudge the price up on you again? But of course sir.” This time Lord Haskett laughed out loud. “We’d better get back and you can discuss the price with dad. We have a few others but I think Eclipse will suit you.” They rode back companionly discussing the weather and his trip on the mail coach from London. Soon they were Gilly and Nathaniel and he was telling her of his plans to travel on north visit the Lake district.

As they clattered into the yard Jane stepped forward. “Miss Gillian, Lucy and your mother await you. Lord Haskett would you like some refreshment?” Gilly’s eyes opened wide “Are you Lord Haskett?” “Yes I’m afraid I am.” “But you don’t look like a Lord?” She covered her mouth with her hand blushing at what she’d blurted out. “I’m sure once he has shaved and tidied up a bit he’ll meet your expectations.” Gilly dismounted and dashed off into the house. “Now my Lord if you’d like to follow me we’ll get you spruced up in no time.”

In the main hall they were met by Barnes who led them to the Blue room where a hipbath was waiting for him. “I assume your valet will be along later?” Nathaniel admitted he hadn’t got round to hiring a valet yet. “Never mind we can sort you out for the moment.” Jane shooed the others out of the room. “Now is there anything else I can do or do you require a footman to assist you?” “You could scrub my back for me?” Jane wrinkled her nose then went and turned the key in the door. “We’d better have a bit of privacy. Now then get in the bath and close your eyes.” “Why close my eyes?” “So I don’t get soap in them when I wash your hair.” Nathaniel undressed himself and got into the bath. There were some interesting rustling noises coming from behind him then a torrent of warm water came over his head and the next thing he knew he could feel her sensuous fingers on his scalp as she washed his hair. He relaxed he could definitely get used to this. Perhaps being a member of the aristocracy and having servants had some benefits he hadn’t realised.

She rinsed his hair off then he felt her hands on his neck and shoulders. “You’re supposed to find this relaxing and go limp.” “I do and my limbs are feeling distinctly limp.” A bare arm reached down into the bath. “This bit seems to be getting harder if anything.” She giggled. “I’ll just soap it up.” Nathaniel opened his eyes and saw a naked Jane fondling him. “You’re naked.” He accused. “Don’t get ideas it’s to save my dress from getting wet with soapy water.” “Why are you being so nice to me?” She put her head to one side “Let me see, a single male member of the aristocracy who isn’t a fortune hunter visiting a Lord with a marriageable daughter in the house? What possible reason could there be for wishing he might stay a day or two and get to know our Gilly better? But remember putting me in the club would upset Gilly so I’ll be nice to you to persuade you to stay a few days and get to know Gilly and Gilly to get to know you but not too nice. Right out you get so I can have a dip before the water gets too cold.” “Don’t servants get baths?” “Yes once a week and that was four days ago so I’m not above dipping in your’s whilst there are still some jugs of hot water around.”

He dried himself on a fluffy towel and watched Jane in the bath. “You could make yourself useful and wash my hair.” He scooped up a jug of water and added some hot to it before pouring it over her head. Then he worked up a lather in his hands and washed her hair. He poured a jug of water over her head to rinse it off then lathered up his hands and proceeded to wash her body giving her first her neck and shoulders special attention before lowering his soapy hands to her breasts. “Enjoying it?” He whispered in her ears as he nuzzled them gently. She covered his hands with her own although whether to stop him caressing her or guide him to her more sensitive spots she really couldn’t say.

His soapy fingers ran down her tummy and brushed through her hair. “We have to make sure this part is especially clean.” “We do?” She whispered “We do including the insides.” As his soapy finger entered her and wiggled around Jane started to breath in gasps. He finally rinsed her off much to her disappointment and they dried themselves on the big warm fluffy towels. “These are nice.” Jane said much to herself as anything else. “You mean servants don’t normally get to use the guest towels.” “Oh we do, once they are ten years old.” She laughed. Nathaniel looked at her wet tangled hair. “I’ve a hair brush somewhere if you don’t mind?” She sat on a stool and he brushed her hair out starting at the ends then getting closer to the roots. Jane sat there and lapped up the attention.

“I think we’d best get you downstairs to meet the family.” Nathaniel tied Jane’s apron strings behind her back. “Thank you my Lord. Although the nibble wasn’t strictly required.” “All part of the service Me Dear.” “That’s what I was afraid of.” She perched her cap over her damp hair and led the way downstairs to the drawing room where the family were seated. “Lord Haskett.” Announced Barnes. Lord Sinclair took in the damp hair of both Lord Haskett and Jane, that should do the trick he thought.

“You clean up nicely my Lord.” Blurted out Gilly. “So do you.” Gilly was sat behind her mother so pulled a face that only Nathaniel and Jane could see. “How did you get on with Eclipse?” “I haven’t quite made my mind up yet. It depends what else you have and the price might come into it.” “Nathaniel was saying he was thinking of travelling on to the lake district but I wondered about showing him our local beauty spots and he said he wouldn’t be adverse to the idea.” Her mother noticed the use of Nathaniel’s first name and was cheered immensely by the informality. “I think it’s a splendid idea and Gilly can show you round.” “Accompanied by her maid at all times of course.” “I don’t think Lucy rides.” “Well never mind Jane can accompany you.” Jane was horrified she’d never even ridden a horse but she didn’t dream of questioning his Lordship’s orders.

Jane slipped away and spoke to the housekeeper. “I’ve been instructed by his lordship to see to Lord Haskett’s comfort and I’m to chaperon Gilly whilst she rides out with him. I’ve never ridden a horse before but I daren’t say anything. Could Mary help me with his clothes Madam?” The housekeeper looked thoughtful “I’ll send Mary to you in his room and you can explain to her what she needs to do.” “Thank you Madam.” The housekeeper walked upstairs to speak with her ladyship’s dresser and between them they dug out an old divided skirt her ladyship had worn years before.

Twelve year old Mary knocked at the door and was admitted by Jane. “I’m to keep his Lordship’s clothes in order?” “I’m not much good with clothes but I hoped you might be better.” “If it’s a choice between cleaning grates out or sewing a lose a button on even I can sew a button on.” She looked round the room. “Normally if he had a valet he’d sleep in the dressing room.” “I’m not a real valet.” “No but if we both slept in there you’d be on hand and your reputation would be safe and I’d be well away from the grates other than his lordship’s of course. I can see to his room as well.” She offered.

Nathaniel came up to dress for dinner. He raised an eyebrow at Mary. “Mary will assist me in keeping your room and clothes straight and that is all.” “I could warm his bed with a warming pan.” Offered Mary. Nathaniel tried to keep a straight face and Jane remonstrated “You should be careful when offering to warm a gentleman’s bed. He might take it as an invitation for something quite different.” “Whoops.” Mary put her hand over her mouth. “I never thought.” “And you sir shouldn’t have even thought about it.” Jane looked sternly at Nathaniel. “You caught the idea as well.” He accused. “Get undressed and don’t say another word. Mary has your Dinner Jacket laid out for you.”

Nathaniel turned to Mary “Is she always this bossy?” “Only if she likes you.” Nathaniel gave Jane a tap on her bottom as he left to go down for dinner. When he’d left the room Mary remonstrated “He tapped you on the bottom.” “He’s done worse than that. His lordship’s instructions I’m to ensure he stays for a few days so Gilly can get to know him better so he knows he can do anything with me apart from putting it up me.” “Well if it’s in aid of Miss Gillian then I suppose it’s all right and when did servants have any choice?”

The next morning after delivering Nathaniel down to the breakfast table Jane went to the servant’s hall for her porridge. “When you’ve finished Jane there’s a skirt in my room that might make your riding today a bit easier.”

Jane dressed in the long split riding skirt and headed out to the stables. “Now Jane since you haven’t ridden since you arrived I’m going to assume it’s your first time?” Jane nodded. “Lady is getting on a bit but she should be able to keep up and she taught Miss Gillian to ride so she knows her way round new riders. We’ll start off by making friends, so feed her this carrot.” Lady daintily munched her carrot then put her muzzle out asking for another. “She can be a bit greedy but two carrots won’t hurt her.”

“Right now then we’ll use a mounting block and on you hop. Just put your leg over and I’ll adjust the stirrups.” “Now we’ll just walk round the yard with me using the leading rein just to get you used to the idea.” Jane was walked round the yard twice and the head groom gave her instructions as she went. “You’ll do.”

Gilly and Nathaniel came out together and were soon mounted although Gilly had to say hello to Lady first. Nathaniel was given the lead of a packhorse. “Don’t lose him he has our lunch on his back.” Commanded Gilly. They walked out of the yard together Jane trailed Gilly and Lady was quite content to let the other horses lead. “Jane sit upright and hold the reins lightly otherwise you’ll ache by the time we get back.” Commanded Gilly.

They walked across the first field, Gilly took the pack horse as Nathaniel opened the gate to let them through. Jane sighed a sigh of relief and at Gilly’s look admitted having seen Gilly’s normal style of just jumping the hedge once or twice she hadn’t been looking forward to it at all. The second field was large meadow. “Is it safe to canter?” Asked Nathaniel who was always cautious on unknown land. “It’s safe enough.” Gilly looked back at Jane, “Hold the saddle horn if it feels unsafe don’t pull on the reins.” Jane said a little prayer and closed her eyes for a moment. “Lady canter.” commanded Gilly, and the other three horses took off, Lady responded to Gilly’s voice command and when Jane opened her eyes she found she and Lady were cantering. After an hour’s enjoyable canter Gilly led them to the top of a hill that had a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside. “It certainly covers the distance. It must be all of twelve miles we’ve come.” Marvelled Jane who only walked so although she’d seen the hill in the distance she’d never actually climbed it before.

Nathaniel tied up his and the pack horse to a tree then helped Gilly down. Finally he helped Jane off her horse. Jane set out the blanket on the ground and brought out the flasks of cool drinks. “You might as well sit with us Barnes isn’t around.” Jane glanced round first to ensure Barnes really wasn’t lurking in the bushes before lowering herself on to the blanket. “It’s nice here.” She said relaxed and not thinking servants should only speak when spoken to. “It is.” Replied Nathaniel, “I might have missed this view if I didn’t have a local guide.” “Think I could set myself up as a tour guide then?” Asked Gilly. “Well if you did you could charge five shillings a day.” Mused Nathaniel. “As much as that?” Asked Jane to whom five shillings seemed to be a fortune. “You have to allow for rainy days and bad weather.”

Jane relaxed and laid her head on Nathaniel’s shoulder. “What are you up to?” He demanded “I’m being a good chaperon. If I lie on this shoulder I can go to sleep but Gilly will be safe from being ravished since you only have one arm free.” “And if I lie with my head on your other shoulder Jane will be safe from you ravishing her.” Gilly lay her head down on Nathaniel’s other shoulder. “Did I hear somewhere you were supposed to entice his Lordship to stay a day or two?” “Those were your dad’s instructions.” “How would you set about that?” “He’s male it’s easy.” “Tell me?” “So basically flirt with him. Snuggle up to him then give him lots of light touches like this.” Jane ran her fingers lightly over his cheek then followed it with some light kisses “And if you’re feeling very brave you could undo a shirt button and slide your fingers lightly underneath.” She suited her actions to her words. Gilly feeling very brave slipped her fingers under Nathaniel’s shirt and across his chest. Jane closed her eyes and dozed off in the sun. Dreaming of a life of luxury when someone else would put the picnic out and gather up the plates afterwards.

She awakened by an odd noise as if Nathaniel and Gilly were kissing. “I’m going to open my eyes on the count of three and I hope everything I see will respectable.” She counted to three slowly aloud then opened her eyes. The two of them were looking very guilty and lips were looking bruised. Oh well a bit of cold water now and they’d be back to more normal colour by the time they returned. She got up and unpacked the picnic basket from the pack horse busying herself whilst the other two tucked themselves in. Three chicken legs, cook must have been feeling kind, fresh rolls and butter and a few slices of ham. She lifted out a plate “Would you like to come and choose or would you prefer to let me have my choice first?” Nathaniel scrambled across quickly with Gilly close behind. “A gentleman would let a lady have first choice.” “Good job I’m a Lord and not a gentleman then isn’t it.” Gilly gave him a hard shove and filled her plate first. Jane waited until the other two had chosen before filling her plate with leftovers.

Jane noticed a cloud with a rain shower underneath far away. “If you had a fast horse you could let people know it was about to rain so they could bring their washing in before it started.” Nathaniel thought about it “You mean predict the weather? The gardeners can do that now.” “Yes but only from which way the wind is blowing. If it’s from the east there will be no rain, from the west there might be rain.” Gilly thought it was an interesting idea but too expensive in horses to be practical.

They cantered home Jane riding more confidently on the way back but finding riding with her legs apart over the saddle distracting to say the least.

Back at the stableyard Jane waited for Nathaniel to help Gilly dismount then he turned and helped her down. Her body responded to his touch as she slid down in his arms. When she tried to take a step or two she found her muscles ached. “Aching?” Queried Nathaniel. She nodded in reply. “I’d best command a bath then when we get inside.” She nodded understanding a mere servant couldn’t command a bath when desired and resigned to letting him scrub her back.

“So do I go first?” Asked Nathaniel “You’d better be quick or I might join you and there isn’t much room in a hip bath. “Quick it is then.” Nathaniel had a very quick dip in the bath then helped Jane by washing her back for her. He spent time soaping her breasts. “You seem very sensitive this afternoon.” “Now I know why ladies ride sidesaddle. The saddle was brushing me in sensitive places.” “Down here?” He asked innocently. “Exactly there you rotter.” “I could stop.” “Don’t you dare.” He nibbled her neck as he soaped her. “There all done. I suggest you lie on the bed.” He spread a towel out over the cover and Jane reluctantly lay face down on it. “Now I can get my revenge for exploring fingers this afternoon.” Jane relaxed has his fingers worked their way through her muscles. Her toes had never seemed quite so sensitive before and before she knew what was happening she felt a small internal explosion. She bit her lip and hoped he hadn’t noticed just how much effect his fingers had on her body. Still if it kept him around for another couple of days who was she to complain.

His fingers worked their way up her body and a sort of comfortable hazy feeling came over her. “We have to get you changed and downstairs or I’ll lose my job.” Or something else more important she thought to herself. Nathaniel helped her dress and if his fingers lingered over smoothing her dress over her breasts she didn’t object too much.

The next day they rode out again, this time in a different direction without the packhorse and picnic basket.

“Miss Gillian, what a pleasure it is to see you with your young man.” “I’m not sure he is yet. I haven’t made up my mind.” “Do I get a say?” “Get along the pair of you. Now then you’ll be wanting to look over the house I dare say.” “If it’s not too much trouble.” “Trouble certainly not.” The housekeeper turned and called out to Sally, “Sally love put a cake in the oven. Miss Gillian’s come to call with her young man.” Nathaniel looked at Jane who just innocently whispered “You don’t think that men ever have any say in important matters do you?”

She guided them over the Hall showing the each room in turn “I can take the covers off if you like but I’m sure you’ll be wanting your own furniture although some is quite good.” Gilly blushed at the remarks as she mentally rearranged the furniture. She took them down to the kitchens “Of course with his lordship being in London for the last ten years the kitchens in particular have been neglected. Really the house needs a family living in it.” “Let me guess you’ve love a new range?” Interjected Nathaniel. “Well yes it would make keeping a cook easier. Agnes has dreams but don’t we all?”

“What’s the estate like?” “Well Sam was saying he’s been told not to spend more money on anything not essential but Sam can tell you that story. Now let’s take you up to the nursery. It’s on the second floor above the guest rooms of course but it has a lovely view across the estate.”

They admired the nursery suite with its play and school room, children’s bedrooms and rooms for a nanny and nursemaid. Later as they descended they were shown the bedrooms including a quick peep at the master bedroom. Finally they returned to the drawing room where Sally had pulled off some of the covers so they could sit down in comfort. “Straight from the oven so mind your fingers.” Sally remarked as she place a plate full of small cakes on the table. “I’ll be back with tea in a moment.” Nathaniel picked up a small cake and had a nibble. “It tastes very good.” “Agnes will be pleased to hear that. She doesn’t get to cook for guests very often these days. Now Sam usually drops in the kitchen for a break about this time so I’ll ask Sally to send him along.”

Sally came back with the tea tray and placed it ready for Gilly to pour. Sam came in a few minutes later as everyone including Jane was drinking tea. Gilly poured him a china cup full. “Going posh today are we?” “It’s in honour of Miss Gillian and her young man.” Nathaniel frowned at this. “You wouldn’t like to buy the estate would you?” “I might be interested but I hear its been neglected.” “Nowt but a bit of brass would soon put right. Have you enough?” “Plain speaking indeed but I’ve just inherited two hundred fifty thousand pounds so would that be enough?” Sam sat up straight. “It might well be. The Earl draws some four and a half thousand a year from the estate but he’d like five. So he’d need say a hundred and sixty thousand or so in the Consols to get that income. Offer him say a hundred and eighty thousand and that would give him an increase of ten percent over what he gets today.” “But why would I want to do that?” Sam frowned. “The estate is behind the times. I’ve asked for funds to invest but the answer has always been no. So I’ve done a little bartering. The books reflect the money side right enough but we had one tenant leave and with the improvements I’ve made to the breeding stock we’re about to see some payback with one thing and another plus the new canal will mean better prices I think we could double or even treble the income and that means better wages for the workers and more money in the village and to be honest I’d like to see Miss Gillian in the house.”

Nathaniel took a deep breath in. “Show me the books.” Jane whispered in Gilly’s ear “Shall I ask for the banns to be called?” “Best wait, although it does look interesting.” She whispered back. Gilly peered over Nathaniel’s shoulder as Sam took him through the books. Even she could see the list of outstanding repairs that hadn’t been seen too was quite long. “I’d like a list of the repairs but not in your handwriting. It might help my man of business close the deal and I’d ask you all to keep very quiet about it all until everything is finalised.” The housekeeper and Sam both agreed. “I’ll mention to Sally and Agnes to keep quiet as well.”

They took a quick guided tour over the estate on the way back and confirmed what the steward had told them. As they left Jane dared to ask the question “So is there to be a wedding?” “If the sale goes through and Gilly will have me I see no reason why not. So Gilly lass whilst thou have me?” “Is it just the estate or me you’re after?” “I couldn’t live without you and I thought having an estate near your parents might just influence you in my favour.” Gilly nudged her horse next to Nathaniel’s and kissed him briefly on the lips. “I think we should keep it quiet though until we know about the estate. Things have a habit of getting out and it could put the price up. Besides I’m not sure my conniving parents deserve to know in advance.” “So cold and formal unless we’re out riding with Jane my love?” Gilly smiled, they understood each other so well.

Nathaniel sent a letter off to his London solicitor instructing him to make an offer and close if he could. Giving him instructions that he was to use his judgement but go to a hundred and ninety thousand pounds as the upper limit. He treated Gilly more formally and she cast her eyes down at the floor more often than not. Jane was amused by the pair of them and continued to act as chaperon as they explored the countryside keeping well way from the Hall.

“Well what do you think?” “I’ve spoken to Lucy and she doesn’t seem to want to wear her best dresses nor have new ones made up. Something about he’ll have to take her as she is. So I’m not sure if she’s willing to have him nor if he’s willing to offer.” “They’re taking their time about it.” “Well I wish they’d make up their minds.” “I’ll speak to Jane.”

“Jane are they going to make a match of it or is he just living here at my expense?” “I wouldn’t rule a match out of the question but they’re both cautious and are taking their time. After all it is a lifetime they’ll be together My Lord.” “True enough. Keep chaperoning them then.”

Anne peered through the window of the butchers. There was that man again who’d brought Freezywater Farm. All the locals knew nowt grew there still he was buying sausages. She liked sausages. There he was again buying spuds she wondered why.

Jed pulled the frying pan out and placed a couple of sausages in to fry gently. He looked up to see a pair of eyes looking hopeful at the open kitchen door. He thought he’d better put in two more sausages. Then he lifted out a two plates and placed a baked potato split open with a knob of butter on top on each plate. When the sausages were done he put two on each plate and put them both on the table. The little girl’s eyes opened wide as he motioned her to sit down and eat. Wordlessly she stood at table then scoffed her food.

Afterwards whilst Jed had a coffee she looked round and took the plates to wash them up using the last of the hot water from the kettle. Then she started on the kitchen. Tidying it up and taking a duster to those places she could reach. Jed stepped out into the garden and sat down relaxing and listening to the birds. Eventually the girl slipped away into the evening and Jed returned to his bed.

Next morning the girl was in the kitchen when he came down. She’d cleaned out the grate and lit the fire. She even had the kettle on. Jed pulled out the frying pan and soon had bacon and eggs for the two of them cooking. “I can’t afford a maid.” “But you could feed me?” He nodded. “Food and board until quarter day when I should have some money.” She nodded thoughtfully. “You going to bring in spuds and things from the garden?” Jed blinked being town bred he’d never thought about storing things over winter. He’d just always brought things from a shop. Anne looked at him. “You know this is a farm and farms grows things to eat?” “What sort of things?” “There’s a chicken run for eggs, a pig sty for pigs, a kitchen garden with enough vegetables to feed all the workers.” “I haven’t got any workers and I doubt I could look after pigs myself.” “I’ll go get my sister to come and tell you about what a farm is.”

She came back twenty minutes later with her sister. “Anne tells me you’ve brought the farm, have no money but are buying food from the village shops?” “Well yes I suppose so.” “She mentioned you might have money on quarter day?” “I hope so.” “The quicker you get the farm running the better it is for all concerned.” “I can’t afford workers at the moment.” “No but you can feed them over winter and that’s what matters. Now how much cash have you got?” Jed admitted to a few pounds. “You’ve a wood shed full of wood and a kitchen garden full of root vegetables that can be dug up as required. You’ve apples and pears to pick and put into winter storage. Which is better than most.” She looked round the kitchen “It’s a good sized farm kitchen pity it hasn’t a range but it will do.” “Is a range better then?” “Keeps the kitchen cleaner, burns less wood, some burn coal but that’s too expensive round here.”

“What would you suggest?” “Winter is approaching so buying a milk cow and a few piglets will be cheap. Anne tells me you have turnips and so on to keep them going over winter. Sam does odd jobs but for regular food and a bit of warmth he’ll work for you over winter and take some money when you have some.” She crossed her fingers being soft on Sam. Jed thought it over. “Would a horse cost much? I think I saw a wagon in the barn.” “We could manage.” “So just Anne and Sam?” “Well I have another sister available and dad’s out of work at the moment?” “Is there enough food for them all over winter?” “More than enough.” “Well then go ahead.”

He wrote a letter to Slade asking him to see if he could obtain a range and to top the barge up with coal. Slade knew the suppliers for the canal and with a bit of luck one would sell ranges.

A week later Anne came running into the kitchen. “There’s a man with a big barge looking for Freezywater farm.” Jed looked up “We’d best all get down to the quay then. Can you ask Sam to bring the horse and wagon down to the canal? And ask your dad to come down as well.”

On the wharf they looked over the barge. There sitting on top of the coal was a range. “Fanny is that what you were after?” “Well yes but it’s a bit bigger than I imagined.” “Mr. Slade sent up a crane as well for the wharf. If we get that off first and set it up the range will come off more easily.” It took the combined efforts of the four men plus Fanny, and Alice hanging on to ropes to get Fanny’s precious range unloaded from the barge and loaded on to the wagon whilst Anne stood at the horse’s head and kept him steady. Anne led the horse back to the farmhouse with Fanny and Alice alongside to see it didn’t slip.

The others started to unload the barge of coal. They set up a plank and had two wheel borrows to wheel the coal out of the barge but even so it was hard work and took a long time. Finally Sam looked over the pile of coal. Well over sixty tons he reckoned. Thirty hundredweight should last the farm house over winter but what to do with the rest. “If I could find a buyer how much would you sell it for?” Jed did his sums, he’d make a good profit at a third of the going price of the dealers who carried it on pack horses. Soon Sam became a coalman delivering coal to those who wanted it at a very reasonable price.

Nathaniel’s solicitor wrote back to say he’d brought the deeds for a hundred and sixty thousand guineas since he’d offered in pounds but guineas were preferred. Nathaniel shared the news with Gilly away from the house. “So an offer to your father?” “Yes but a sort of cold formal offer and I’ll be seen to think about it before accepting.” Jane was well bribed by Nathaniel to stay very quiet.

Nathaniel sort an interview with Lord Sinclair. “My London solicitor has purchased an estate for me. It has an average income of four to five thousand a year for the last five years so since I need a wife to sort out the house and furnishing I’d like to offer for Miss Gillian.” “Has she agreed?” “I haven’t made a formal offer to her. I thought it might be better from yourself?” “I’ll see what she says.” “Thank you my Lord.”

His wife was through the door practically as soon as Nathaniel had left. “Has he offered?” “Yes but he didn’t seem terribly enthusiastic. Said his London solicitor has purchased an estate and so he needs a chatelaine.” “You’d better not mention that to Gillian. Still see what she says.”

Lord Sinclair walked up to Gillian’s room, and entered when bid. “Lord Haskett has made an offer for your hand.” “Well it would avoid the bother of a season.” “I’m not quite sure how to put this. His London solicitor has brought him an estate and I assume that’s where you’ll be living once you’re wed. He mentioned it has brought in four or five thousand a year for the last few years so it would give you security but on the other hand our estate will pass to you when I die so that’s not so critical.” “But you were hoping we’d make a match weren’t you?” “Well yes, he’s not a fortune hunter it just seems a bit cold.” “We could have a big wedding?” “Does that mean you’ll accept his offer.” “I hope I’m a dutiful daughter.” She said meekly. “I’ll let him know then and talk to your mother about the wedding date?” “Thank you Papa.”

“Well?” “She’s accepted the offer.” “But?” “I can’t decide between the pair of them which is the colder fish.” “We’ll have a big wedding anyway even if I can’t see my darling have a season.”

As Fanny got organised so the farm became self-sufficient especially with the extra income that came in from Sam selling coal which Jed thought was a excellent thing seeing as the canal needed lock keeper’s cottages building, extra cranes on the wharfs to handle the higher than expected traffic and a new stone bridge to replace the temporary wooden one they’d put in to save time and money. Still the canal was earning money now even though the engineer had recommended extra side ponds and twining one of the locks to save water. Those improvements could be put off for a day or two.

At the big house the guest list was drawn up. Every title for miles around and the more prosperous gentry who had the means to travel to the wedding as well. “The coal merchant farmer?” “Really one must draw the line somewhere.” A separate list was made of the tenants and labourers on the estate. Henri looked over the lists then at his kitchen. The tenants would be a open roast, an ox certainly and possibly a pig as well. The others would need more elaborate dishes if he was to maintain his reputation and they would need more bread than could be easily baked. Jane would know what could be done. “I heard in the village that one of the farmers has a new range and has been baking bread for his workers. Rumour has it he is short of cash for Fanny has been seen bartering for goods at the store.” “Good we will inspect.” Henri commanded a gig and the two of them drove over to Jed’s farm.

“C'est superbe!” exclaimed Henri as soon as he saw the range. Fanny looked on bemused. “I need to try it to learn its secrets but it will do.” Jane explained to Fanny that the wedding needed many dishes some could be prepared in advance and some on the day. “Henri would like...” “Non Henri must have.” Henri walked round the range inspecting it closely. “Twenty pounds?” Suggested Jane quietly. “I’ll ask Jed.” She disappeared and found Jed with his feet up reading the paper. “The big house needs more kitchen space and since Henri has cast his eye on ours I’m afraid nothing else will do. We really ought to keep in with the big house even if we aren’t tenants.” Jed walked into the kitchen. “I need staff for the day and beforehand as well.” Henri looked around the kitchen at Fanny, Alice, Jed and Sam. “You are all hired for the day and to help set up beforehand.” Fanny opened her mouth to protest. Henri decreed “Jane see to it I have fifty pounds budgeted.” He pulled open cupboard doors and inspected the contents. “Now I will prepare lunch.” Jed looked at Fanny and Jane, both of whom shrugged. Well fifty pounds was fifty pounds at the moment and as Fanny had mentioned it would be better to stay on the right side of the big house. Lunch was excellent. Henry was pleased with the range and undertook to teach Fanny and Alice how to prepare a number of recipes for him. Cakes and bread for example could all be prepared beforehand.

Jane worked directly under the housekeeper to arrange the big event. Jed, Sam and the others were put to work building trestle tables and benches for the tenants and workers. Jed didn’t mind working with his hands and was pleasantly surprised by the way Jane managed to get things organised so the workers didn’t run out of planks of wood or tools. Eventually everything was in place. One of the gardeners quietly made a small sacrifice to the old pagan gods to appease them and ensure good weather.

Lord Sinclair led his daughter up the church aisle listening to the guests whispers and speculation as he led her to the alter. He stood to one side and the service began. It was only when he heard the words “You may now kiss the bride.” and he looked across at his daughter’s radiant look of adoration and her new husband’s look in return he and the congregation grasped this was a love match and not an arranged marriage.

The happy couple were toasted and speeches were made. Eventually they slipped away to the large travelling coach that was drawn up in front of the house. Lady Sinclair leaned into the coach “Have a good journey and don’t travel after dark. Oh but when will I see you?” “You’re invited to tea tomorrow?” A suspicion crossed her mind “Where?” “We brought the Hall from the earl. Nathaniel hoped our steward or rather old steward might have some ideas on how to improve it. Bye mother dear.” Gilly closed the door on her shocked mother. Lord Sinclair slipped his arm round her to hold her up. “What’s our daughter done now?” “They’ve only brought the Hall from the Earl and Nathaniel wondered if our steward might have some ideas for improving it.” “Improving it, we’ll run them together. The pair of imps and Jane come to that not letting on I’m sure she knew something.”

“I think that farmer who sells coal owns a coal mine.” “It’s not as good as a title but think of the money so better than a second son. What’s his name again?” “Jed, he’s working here as a footman today.” “So?” “I’ll compromise him.” “Sally it could be dangerous.” “I’ll be fine just dash in when you hear my scream.” Jane could hardly believe her ears. She slipped away thanking heaven that no one noticed servants. “Jed you’re wanted upstairs.” She led him to Nathaniel’s dressing room, closed the door before kissing him on the lips. Interesting worth another kiss sometime. “Mary look after him. He’s not to leave the room under any circumstances.” She turned to Jed, “Two of the less bright guests were talking and one thinks you own a coal mine so are worth compromising so stay here and Mary will look after you. I’ll speak to Barnes to let him know what’s going on.” She slipped from the room as Jed sat down and looked at Mary. “If you’re going to marry anyone Jane is worth thinking about. She’s a dowery of nearly a hundred pounds now which will come in handy for putting the farm to rights and she can read and write.”

Downstairs she reentered the room where Miss Henshaw was. “Girl, send Jed the footman to me.” She saw Barnes in the hall. “Miss Henshaw has ripped her dress and is asking for Jed’s presence but I feel yourself accompanied by a maid might be more suitable.”

Jane stepped into the drawing room and ran her eye over the refreshments. There was a loud scream from next door and the guests rushed to see what had occurred. There they found Miss Henshaw sobbing with a middle aged maid wrapping her up in a shawl and hustling her upstairs. “Miss Henshaw thought she saw a mouse.” The maid announced. Lord Sinclair looked at Barnes who was stood just inside the door. “A mouse Barnes?” “Whilst I feel sure Miss Henshaw was mistaken my Lord I would suggest no further questions are raised on the subject but you might like to speak to Jane quietly.” “Trying to compromise someone was she but who? Oh well never mind the wife’s maid will no doubt find the truth out.” “In this case I hope she doesn’t my lord.” Barnes muttered to himself.

Lady Sinclair summoned Jane. “A mouse Jane?” “I’m afraid I wasn’t in the room at the time.” “A mouse that ripped Miss Henshaw’s dress?” Jane grimaced. “I overheard Miss Henshaw mention she might try to compromise a member of staff so thought Mr. Barnes was best placed to handle the matter discreetly my lady.” “Thank you Jane, you may go.” Why on earth would Miss Henshaw wish to compromise a member of her staff? One of the world’s mysteries that would never be solved. However for the moment Jane had averted a scandal during her daughter’s wedding celebrations and for that she would be rewarded.

Jane stepped back into the dressing room. “Dealt with but I think it might be safer if you returned home.” “Mary suggested if we got married it might save another compromise attempt.” Jane looked him over. “She also mentioned a dowery of nearly a hundred pounds so if you don’t mind a farmer who knows very little about farming and sells coal on the side?” He left the question in the air and Jane sat down. “Well it should give me more control over my life. Fanny mentioned you treat your servants and workers well and I hate to think what Lord Sinclair will ask me to do next to keep a guest happy. I had hopes of visiting London with the family when Gillian went down for her season but there’s little chance now. Do you own a coal mine by the way?” “No I don’t own a coal mine.” “Well a hundred pounds will buy some of these new farm implements the steward is always bragging about and your kisses are nice.” She paused and looked at him “I’d better have you I suppose.” Jed drew her onto his lap and kissed her. “You won’t expect me to cook for you will you? I’m not much good at cooking I’m afraid, more doing the social bit and seeing guests are set at ease.”

“I’ll expect you to oversee the house though?” “That’s reasonable.” “Think you can lure Henri away?” “If you have sixty pounds a year to spend on a chef. He gets forty five at the moment but with your range I think he’ll come.” She joked. “I don’t own a coal mine but I do own most of the canal so starting next quarter day we should see an income of some five thousand pounds a quarter and the contingency fund will be available since the canal is just about finished now which is another hundred thousand so we can afford Henri and since I have business in London from time to time we’ll need a house there and Henri to prepare meals when we travel.” She looked at him “You’re serious?” “I’m serious and I suspect we’d better find a place for Mary as well.” “I’m not certain I can be a hostess and entertain the aristocracy in London.” “You’re intelligent and that’s what counts. Most won’t be aristocracy of course other than the ones who want to invest. We will get to visit the theatres though.” “Best get the banns read quickly before anyone else finds out.” “I’ll speak to Henri after our wedding.” “Do it before I rather enjoyed his catering of this wedding although I think ours will be smaller.”