Fish in the Sea by Karen Blayne.

Oh by the way red tape first.

©Karen Blayne 2018.

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.

Mary held her mother's hand and peered at the little girl in front of her as she came out of the family pew. She curtsied to Lady Kilburn as did her mother then smiled at the girl besides her. An answering smile came back which was noticed by Lady Kilburn. “Ann, you will attend me this afternoon at three o'clock and bring your daughter with you.” “Yes my lady”.

That afternoon mother and daughter dressed in their Sunday best presented themselves at the kitchen door. “Hello Ann sit yourself down and have a cup of tea and a mug of milk for Mary I daresay you're here to see her ladyship.” Ann nodded nervously, her husband had died recently and she knew she wouldn't be able to keep the tenancy of the farm.

They chatted for a while then a footman arrived and indicated that her ladyship was now available. Mary looked up from where one of the maids was helping her to mix a batter. “You stay with Betty.” Her mother commanded.

She was shown into the small reception room that was used to conduct the business of the estate. “What do you think of taking Robert to husband and keeping the farm?”. “I'm not sure he'll accept another man's child.”. “That is my concern also. However she is nicely spoken so I propose she becomes a companion to my daughter. I'll find her a suitable post when the time comes and she'll be able to visit you from time to time.”. Ann looked undecided. “You can't run the farm yourself and I'm not sure what other options are open to you. It would be very difficult to come back as a maid. Think it over and if you do decide to accept I'll give you a pair of Shires as a dowery.”

That night she slept on it and the following morning she went to talk it over with Robert. She found him hedging and sat down besides him. “So what happens to the farm?” Asked Robert. She looked taken back at his directness. “That's why you're here isn't it?” “Well yes.” “Are we to be wed then?” “Are you asking?” “I'd prefer not to have to support another man's child or I would have spoken before.” He'd all ways been very direct had Robert, but he worked hard and kept his word. He didn't drink heavily and had a way with horses. She could do worse and with a pair of Shires the work would be easier. “Mary is to live with Lady Kilburn as companion to her daughter if it works out. My hand comes with a pair of Shires and the tenancy of the farm.” It was Robert's turn to look taken back. “She's being generous. So we'll be wed then if you're agreeable, quietly to respect your mourning.” “I'll speak to the vicar and get the banns called then?” Robert nodded “And if Mary doesn't suit we'll take care of her never you mind but it's a chance of a lifetime for her.” Anne wondered just what advantages it would bring to Mary but good food, clothes and a warm bed were well worth it at least.

Mary settled in quite quickly. She had a slight local accent but she'd been well corrected by her mother and soon the shared governess had corrected her speech so she could speak the refined King's English as it was known which would be so essential for Cynthia to speak when she came out. Nothing could be worse for her chances than to have a country accent. Now with Mary to play with the chances of her picking up the local accent were remote. Cynthia's brother was ten years older and playing with girls was beneath him.

Mary and Cynthia learnt their letters and numbers in the morning but in the afternoon Cynthia was taught deportment and needlework both of which were deemed unnecessary for Mary so the staff took her under their wing, her mother had been one of their own. Besides they knew that she'd be dependant on what she knew not how well she could curtsy. She visited her mother and stepfather once a week and saw them in passing at church. She was bright, the housekeeper taught her everything she knew, Mary absorbed it like a sponge. The stables likewise, both girls were taught to ride but Mary seemed to be able to get the best out of any horse she was given which was fortunate as she was often given whichever horse needed exercise. At eight she was driving a farm wagon at harvest time. By ten she was trusted with a dog cart for running errands such as looking in on the workers to ensure they had all they needed. By twelve she knew her way round the still room and the steward took her with him around the estate.

To make up the numbers for the dance sets Mary joined in with Cynthia and her dancing master. She found it helpful if she used a set of chess pieces on the chess board to show how the couples moved in the dance. The minuet was the most challenging with its tiny mincing steps and Mary had to dance it with the dancing master so that Cynthia could study the movements. It was difficult not to over do the flourishes and burst out into giggles but the dancing master was a hard task master and eventually both girls had perfected the dance.

  Mary remembered some of the comments that her stepdad had made and asked pertinent questions. “Well good question no doubt it would be better but would it pay better than summat else? A new bit of machinery for example?” Cynthia's governess looked bemused. No one had ever bothered with working things out on paper before. “How much would a new ram cost? And how much more wool would we get?” It was different to working out how much material you needed for a dress.

When the travellers arrived she went with the steward to see what work they could do around the estate. The steward mentioned they were useful at harvest time and other times when they needed more man power. Mary applied herself to spotting jobs they could do that would benefit the estate which pleased the travellers since it gave them more work and in turn they taught her to speak both Romani and Polari. “Sometimes it’s helpful to be able to talk and exclude bystanders.”

The steward set aside a small fund which she could use as she chose to better the estate. The following year he ploughed back the extra profits into some of her other projects.

Lord Kilburn was puzzled he'd been over at the Squire's for dinner and over the port after the meal the other landowners were lamenting how poor their harvests had been because of the weather. He'd get to the bottom of this had his steward been cooking the books to make himself look better?

“Henshaw, the squire and the others tell me it’s been a bad harvest this year but according to the books we've not done so bad. Been making mistakes adding up have you?” Henshaw shuffled his feet. “It's all in the barn like it says or in the hayricks.” “Right man let's inspect.” To Lord Kilburn's amazement the barns were full. “So why? I'll have an explanation if you please.” “I've never really thought about it but we've made a few changes since Mary starting asking questions.” “Mary?” “Your daughter's companion. To broaden out her education I thought I'd take her over the estate to show her how it all worked. She's bright and notices things. It started off with little details and then she asked about buying a new ram like the squire and I said it would be costly and might not make a profit but blow me down she came back with a sheet of paper with the sums on it showing it would make money. She'd done the sums with the governess. So after that I got her to do the sums for a few other projects. It was odd really some you might have thought would work didn't and some others did. Often it was the smaller ones that were best.” He looked sheepish. “Go on man there's more, isn't there?” “Well we had a bit of cash on hand so I let her decide what to do with it. Half the profit for her projects went back into the estate and half into her project fund. I know I shouldn't have done so without your say so but it started small as I said and just grew. She asked questions of some chef or other about which breed of cattle he would prefer and why. We get paid more for the tenderloin off those animals than we were getting for an entire beast before. She's got an eye for how we do things as well and organising things.” “So I can replace you with an abacus then can I?” The steward thought for a moment “No it seems to be a mixture. You have to know both, the land, what can grow where, and do the calculations.” “Right enough said for now just carry on as you are.” The steward sighed a breath of relief.

Lord Kilburn looked at his son. “Are you sure you want a commission in a calvary regiment?” “All my friends are buying commissions and I'll be safe enough.” Well thanks to Mary there was enough cash on hand to equip him with a string of horses and pay for Cynthia's come out and it was what he wanted to do. “Here's a letter for my man of business in London. Give it to him and he'll sort you out an allowance. What you do with it is your own business. You'd best be off this afternoon before your mother gets wind of it.” “Thanks Pater.”

Lady Kilburn looked at her husband. “Martha writes her son has brought a commission in the same regiment as our son?” “Has he?” “I didn't know that Lionel had brought a commission?” “Probably a better way to spend his allowance than gambling.” She wasn't going to get any more out of him and she certainly wasn't going to let Martha know it was the first she'd heard about it.

“There's a carriage coming up the drive slowly.” “Are we expecting anyone?” Lord Kilburn enquired to his wife. “Not that I'm aware.” “No doubt we'll find out in good time.” There was a knock at the door. “I have an injured officer in the coach with a letter in his pocket that had this address on it.” Hargraves peered into the coach and his face went white. He staggered back to the front door where Mary stood peering out. Mary peered in the coach Lionel, a very poorly Lionel by the looks of things. It was Mary who summoned the footmen and arranged Lionel should be carried up to his room. Hargraves knocked on the drawing room door. “It's your son my lord back from the wars but he looks gravely ill.” Lady Kilburn came to her feet and dashed to take a look as Lionel was carried very gingerly up the stairs.

He'd been taken aboard a merchant ship that was exchanging goods with a fishing boat from the French coast. A storm had blown up and his batman who had been caring for him was washed overboard. Finally when the ship had docked Mr. Kershaw, the owner, had sent him home in his own carriage.

A doctor was sent for and expressed it was in the hands of God now, but it fell to Mary to organise his nursing. Slowly he recovered.

Lady Kilburn glanced at her son looking on Mary favourably. That connection must be stopped in the bud. “I can see you're much better now my dear. Your father will arrange for a new valet for you and we'll have you on your feet in no time.” That evening she spoke to her husband. “It's time for Cynthia's season. I see no reason to keep her governess on and with Lionel taking an interest in Mary I think rather than find her a position within the house or returning her to her mother I'd rather pension her off providing she moves away from the area and out of Lionel's eye. We owe her for saving Lionel's life so I thought perhaps thirty guineas a year pension?” Lord Kilburn peered over his glasses at his wife. “Thirty, well yes normally that would be quite generous but she has been instrumental in increasing the yields from the estate by a goodly sum. Three hundred would not be out of line.” Besides she was a pretty thing. Lady Kilburn blinked. So much? “How much has she increased the estate income then?” “At a rough guess I'd say more than four thousand a year.” Lady Kilburn sat herself down in a chair. “Are you sure? You hadn't said anything.” “I went through the books with the steward right enough. Some suggestions were a few pounds saved, others were more than a few pounds. She's made suggestions to the tenants so they're paying more rent as well.” “Take Cynthia and Lionel off to visit the market tomorrow morning and I'll get rid of the other two whilst you're gone.”

The next morning Lord Kilburn took his two children off to market with a promise of a meal at the Royal Swan. Lady Kilburn looked through the post, One of Mr. Kershaw's neighbours had written. Mr. Kershaw's family had been taken ill. Only his son was left and he seemed depressed as the illness had carried off the girl he was due to marry as well. The physician thought that good country air might help. The smog from the factories wasn't helping his lungs, the perfect excuse for Mary.

She rang the bell and summoned Mary and the governess. “Cynthia is leaving for her season tomorrow so thank you for assistance Miss Layfield here is a purse of fifty pounds and a reference for you. I wish you luck.” Miss Layfield curtsied and left the room to pack her belongings. “Mary your services will also no longer be required so here is a purse of fifty pounds.” She'd thought about guineas but couldn't bring herself to give the extra shillings away. “There will be a pension of a further fifty pounds per quarter which will give you an independence. However it is conditional on you moving away from the estate until my son is safely married.” Mary wasn't quite sure what to say. Two hundred pounds a year was an enormous sum to her. Lady Kilburn picked up another purse and passed it across. “I'd like you to do one final thing for me. Mr. Kershaw's family was taken ill and only his son is left alive. I'd like you to travel to Droylsden then escort him to the estate at Milldale that his father was thinking of buying so he can convalesce. Apparently he is very depressed so anything you can think of to cheer him up would be welcome especially as his father saved my son's life.” “I heard that the Ratledge's French chef is unhappy, if he liked French cooking?” Lady Kilburn sat up straight, one in the eye for that upstart Mrs. Ratledge. “Offer him twenty pounds to cook for a month do you think?” “I hear he has two assistants so five pounds each as well for the month with the chance that Mr. Kershaw will keep him on?” Lady Kilburn rang the bell. “Have Hargraves bring me another purse of thirty pounds.” “You'd better take the small travelling coach and be on your way before the family return. Hargraves will show you the hidden pockets for carrying money.” Minutes later pausing briefly at her mother's to tell her the news and to reassure her she wasn't in the family way after she left thirty pounds with her she was off on her travels.

Seth was driving and Rufus joined her inside with a pair of pistols which he stowed in pockets in the side of the coach “out of drafts” as he put it. They soon arrived at Mr. Ratledge's home and Mary slipped in through the open kitchen door where she spied the French chef with his arms round one of his assistant's waist with one hand wandering upwards to cup her right breast and the other wandering down between her thighs. She tapped on the door to announce her presence but was ignored as the chef nibbled the side of Alma's neck.

A second maid came in through the other door. “Guillaume Mrs. Ratledge has ignored your suggestions and sent down her own menu for tonight.” Guillaume snatched the scrap of paper and peered at it. “She wants Toad in the Hole and Spotted Dick to follow. It's impossible to get hold of decent frogs’ legs in this forsaken country never mind whole toads and just where am I supposed to find an infected dick?” One of the maids ran her fingers over his crotch suggestively and Guillaume's face went white. “No out of the question.” Mary broke into laughter. “She's teasing you Guillaume. Toad in the Hole is sausages baked in a batter and Spotted Dick is a type of English pudding.” Guillaume looked slightly appeased. “And what do you want?” “I have a depressed patient who needs cheering up.” One of the maids wiggled her hips suggestively “and I thought your superb French cooking might do the job. Twenty pounds for a month's work with a possibility of a post at the end.” The two maids looked affronted “And five pounds each for your assistants.” Emma smiled “We accept.” Guillaume looked affronted once more then Emma whispered in his ear. “You are right. We shall never be happy here I go and inform the heathen Mr. Ratledge he is to lose his French chef.”

“You cannot ask a French chef to prepare these Toads in the Hole and Spotted Dick dishes. You need a mere cook for these.” Mr. Ratledge looked up “I'm sorry you feel that way.” He passed a purse across the desk “Your pay until the next quarter day. You'll be wanting to leave immediately no doubt? If I can assist in anyway?” “Pas du tout. It is not necessary.” Guillaume stormed off to the kitchen. “Come we must pack and be on our way.” He turned to Mary “You have room for us in your little carriage?” Mary nodded. Upstairs Mr. Ratledge dreamt of steak and kidney pies. It had been so simple to switch the menu. Now just as long as his wife didn't find out what exactly had transpired. It was time to disappear and visit the Golden Goose tonight to have a nice quiet game of dominos.

Rufus removed himself to sit besides Seth and picked up the shot gun and laid it across his lap. “Expecting trouble are we?” “No but there are enough gold coins tucked in purses around the carriage to be tempting.” “Best drive through the night then rather than be robbed at an inn?” “It's near enough full moon so two hours driving two hours dozing?” “Good enough.” Rufus called down to Mary “We'll travel through the night to get there faster.”

They paused to change horses. Seth was given a bag of crowns to get the best out of the stables when they changed teams. They might not have a crest on the coach but it was surprising how often a crown to the stable lads would produce the best of the stables. Inside Guillaume sat facing forward as Mary took her usual place facing backwards. Guillaume had two rugs wrapped round himself and Emma. Mary had no clear idea of what was happening under the rugs but Emma didn't seem to be complaining at the attention she was being given. Besides her Alma closed her eyes and snuggled down under her rug. At midnight with the roads clear Mary took her turn driving whilst Seth took her place in the swaying coach. Alma snuggled up to him. “We'd be warmer together under two rugs.”

Rufus saw the horses' ears twitch so handed the reins across to Mary, “Push them hard.” He commanded as he pulled out the shotgun and levelled it at a bush by the side of the road. Mary brought the team up to a gallop in the moonlight. Not her favourite thing to do on a road she didn't know but she caught a glimpse of metal in the bush where a footpad was hiding with a pistol. His original plan was to step out in front of the coach and demand they stop but at the speed they were travelling the horses would have trampled him before anyone could stop them. He had a single-shot pistol. If he shot the driver, the guard would continue to drive the team. He'd seen them swap the reins. If he shot the guard, the driver would continue on their way. He dithered and then his chance was gone. Never mind it was only a small coach. One with a crest on the side would offer better pickings.

They slowed down back to a canter. “Footpad?” Asked Mary “I think so. You get to recognise a good place for an ambush in the army and the horses had heard something.” At the next inn they saw a coach with a crest on the side about to travel back over the highway they had just come from. “There might be a footpad about a mile back just over the brow of the hill. On the left of the road as you head that way.” “Thanks for the warning.” “Oh jolly good a spot of sport. Two horsemen quietly on the flank in position first do you think? Nice and slow to tempt him with a spot of singing as if we're drunk.” “A fiver I shoot him first.” “You're on old chap.” “Footpads don't last long do they?” “Nah. You've got to be pretty desperate to go that route.”

Finally exhausted from their travels they arrived at the Yates household where their patient was awaiting them. Mrs. Yates was stood in the hall behind the maid who had admitted them. “Mrs. Yates, I'm Mary come to collect Mr. Kershaw's son although I suppose now he is Mr. Kershaw.” “That's right lass come right in and sit yourselves down in the parlour. I wasn't expecting you so soon.” Mary looked down at her dust covered dress “The kitchen might be more practical.” Mrs. Yates laughed “I dare say you're right at that but come in and make yourselves at home in the kitchen.” She led the way back into a gleaming kitchen with a large table and the very latest range installed. Guillaume's eyes widened. “You have a dinning room here?” “Of course we can seat twenty comfortably.” He turned to Mary “If we leave in the morning you would be rested and this evening I could serve up a meal of a lifetime for these people?”

Mrs. Yates looked doubtful. “He's a French chef who likes to cook Haute Cuisine for dinner parties. I understand he's very good.” “Very good, pas. C'est superbe, magnifique.” Guillaume started. “Hush lad” replied Alma “He does get carried away sometimes but I think we should indulge him.” Mrs. Yates's cook looked affronted at the thought of someone taking over her kitchen. “We'll do you right and let you prepare two dishes under his direction.” Voiced Emma. This was too tempting to be taught how to prepare two French dishes properly. She turned beseechingly towards Mrs. Yates.

“One dinner party coming up but let's hope they don't feel too insulted by being asked at the last moment.” She guided Mary apart to the small office she did her accounts in. “You look far too young to be entrusted with the responsibility of Mark. How did Lady Kilburn come to entrust you?” “Well I've been a companion to her daughter but she's off for her season now and my role is done. When she had her deportment and needlework classes I used to work with the steward doing the accounts and doing the sums to see if an investment was worthwhile.” Mrs Yates eyes lit up. “You young lady are going to dazzle my son this evening.” “I've no social graces at all. I’m afraid.” “One of the neighbour's daughters has set her cap at him so you're going to give her a little competition.” “I haven't the dress or anything for it.” Mrs. Yates rang the bell and had her maid come to her.

“Mary stand up please and turn. Walk across the room and back.” “Now then Peggy do you think she could outshine Edwina?” “In the right dress.” “No expense spared an evening gown by tonight at shall we say seven?” Peggy looked thoughtful. “She'll need a rest beforehand to look her best. I'll take her measurements and I thought perhaps the blue silk Mr. Yates had brought back for a sample? It would bring out the colour of her eyes.” Mrs. Yates had had her eye on that sample for herself but with her son's happiness at stake it would be sacrificed.

“I'd better show Mark to you.” Mrs. Yates led the way to Mark's bedroom. As they entered Mark had a coughing fit. Mary looked him over. “I have my jars from the still room but really he's not fit to be moved.” “But with the cough on top of everything else I'm afraid the first smog we get and it will be enough to kill him.” “Smog?” “The smoke from the mill and coal fires combined with the fogs we get up here to give a smog. You can't see your hand in front of your face sometimes and it's a killer.” “So we really have to move him?” The fresh air will help his recovery. I can borrow a large comfortable carriage and if you move him slowly it might be enough.” “I had some good results with one of Cynthia’s great Aunts when we let her have water that had been boiled and cooled before she drank it.” Mrs. Yates wondered about it, if the water was clear surely it was pure. “We can always try. I’ll have one of the maids replace the carafe by the bed.” Mary went to lie down and ponder about the wisdom of moving or not moving Mark.

The afternoon was spent with every available maid hemming and sewing. Mrs Yates even helped out herself and borrowed two maids from next door. The staff was delighted to help out. Mr. Yates's valet even demeaned himself to hemming. They had no hesitation in helping out if it meant Edwina would not become their mistress. Guillaume prepared a chicken dish in sauce that Mark would find easy to swallow. Emma took it up once it was ready and spoon-fed Mark.

Just after six the dress was pronounced finished. A bath was transported up to Mary's room and Mrs. Yates's personal maid took Mary in hand. By seven thirty Mary stood before the mirror admiring herself in her first adult evening gown. “You've worked a miracle.” She murmured. “Now it’s your turn. Remember Edwina's weak point is conversation and Lucian's interest is the business.” Mary made her way downstairs not making a grand entrance as she knew Cynthia had been trained to do but in her own quiet style. She entered the drawing room and Mrs. Yates motioned her across to join her. “Now Lucian this is Mary. I want you to look after her tonight. Now I'll leave you to see to Mrs. Liptrot.” Lucian looked most put upon. Mary couldn't resist putting her hand on his arm and fluttering her eyelashes at him in her best imitation of Cynthia. He looked revolted for a moment and then his expression changed as she started to giggle.

“You aren't an empty headed young lady are you?” He asked suspiciously. “Well I try not to be but the temptation was too much you must admit not to present you with what you were expecting to see.” “So who are you?” “Mary, and I was a companion to Lady Kilburn’s daughter until recently but whilst she was having department lessons I was working with the steward to see which projects offered the best return.” “But you can’t be certain how things will turn out, can you?” “No but you can do sums to estimate what the probabilities will be.” Lucian looked puzzled. “Throw a dice and it’s a one in six chance a one will turn up.” Lucian nodded. “Throw two dice and although its one in thirty-six a value of two will turn up for seven you have more possibilities, one and six, two and five, three and four etc.” A look of interest came over Lucian’s face and they started a deep discussion on how to apply the concept to business projects.

Edwina frowned as she saw Lucian paying attention to another female. Then she remembered she didn’t look her best when frowning. She gracefully glided across the room to arrive in front of Lucian. “Good evening Lucian.” She voiced forwardly. “Good evening Edwina I don’t believe you’ve met Miss Ward.” Edwina turned and graciously asked where she’d found the delightful material and which dressmaker had made Mary’s dress. “It’s just something one of the maids threw together from a spot of silk that was lying around when I mentioned I hadn’t brought anything with me suitable for this evening.” There was a shocked silence from Edwina how could anyone dismiss an exclusive silk dress with such casualness? Lucian caught her expression and guided Mary to meet one of his male friends who he thought would be interested in this new idea of applying probabilities to business problems.

“I think you’ve shocked her. I suspect the some silk that was lying around is very exclusive since I suspect its one of father’s samples that arrived yesterday although I must say it’s made up very well. Somehow I detect the hand of Peggy in this?” “Possibly I’m not terribly good on names. Numbers are so much easier.” He threw back his head and chortled. Across the room his mother was approached by Lottie, one of the matrons. “Victoria just what have you been up to?” “Oh the dinner, a French chef turned up at the door.” “No not the dinner I mean where did you find the girl that Lucian is talking to? I caught part of the conversation and it wasn’t about the latest fashion. Numbers for heavens sake but she seems to have caught his attention much to Edwina’s dismay. She’s not a merchant’s daughter because I’ve being running them all through my head.” Victoria gave a smile “She has done rather well don’t you think.” “Well it’s a lethal combination looks, well dressed and intelligence. So when is the wedding to be?” “Oh not for a few more years yet but at least she’s shown Lucian that women can have brains as well and hopefully make him think more clearly when he sees a pretty face.”

Dinner was well received. The diners drifted in and sat where they pleased and Lucian was pleased enough to sit Mary besides him. Lottie slipped in besides him before Edwina could do so. After dinner Mary slipped away upstairs to pack away her first evening gown and to go to bed early. The plan was to slip away at daybreak so they might reach Wilmslow or perhaps even as far as Macclesfield in the daylight. Rufus and Seth led the way with Guillaume and his two assistants in the small coach. They’d ensure their welcome that evening carrying an introductory letter from Mrs. Yates to one of her friends.

Mark and Mary travelled more slowly in the comfortable travelling coach that Mrs. Yates had arranged. Mark was wrapped up in rugs to keep him warm and Mary had dosed him with a mixture to ease his cough. As they travelled Mark looked cold so Mary unwrapped the rugs and wrapped it round both of them. Mark seemed slightly more comfortable.

Lucian descended into the breakfast room and selected a mixture of bacon, kidneys and eggs. “I think your impromptu dinner party went off very well last night.” “I thought so too.” “The girl I was chatting to last night?” “Edwina?” Asked his mother mischievously. “No not that one, the intelligent one dressed in dress of exclusive silk whom you asked me to look after.” “Oh Miss Mary Ward?” “Yes that’s her name. Do you think I should call on her?” “Be difficult since she left the house with Mark at first light.” “Surely not eloping?” “Not in Mark’s state of health. No she was sent by Lady Kilburn to collect Mark and deliver him to an estate somewhere in the south. Are you going to pay a call on Edwina this morning?” “Edwina? No I don’t think so. Are there other girls that are intelligent as well as beautiful?” “A fair number and they wear better than the others who are just beautiful.” Lucian nodded thoughtfully. “You did it deliberately didn’t you?” “What love?” “Introduced me so I’d compare Edwina to her?” “But I didn’t forbid Edwina to you now did I?” “True enough.” He popped another half rasher of bacon in his mouth and thought he’d never understand the female mind although finding one who understood about profit and loss was interesting to say the least.

At Macclesfield Mary thought Mark was doing better or at least not coughing so much. They carried him off to bed and Guillaume’s delicious dishes once more helped tempt Mark to eat a little. That evening Mary sat down to dinner with a table for thirty. Guillaume was in his element. Rather than travel on Sunday they rested for three days and Mark was noticeably brighter.

Their next stop was at an inn. Word had got round that Guillaume would be preparing an evening to remember and the inn was crowded. Guillaume and Mark would get their own rooms but the three girls would need to share. Mary took her meal in Mark’s room so she could keep an eye on him and feed him bits from her plate. Downstairs the wine flowed freely and the inn keeper’s wife gloated over the evening’s takings.

After quietly reading a book by candle light rather than join the boisterous company downstairs, Mary took a last glance at a dozing Mark before deciding to retire for the night. She stepped into the shared room only to see Alma and Emma embracing each other and kissing passionately before the bed. Mary stood there in a state of shock. “Emma darling I think you’ve shocked her.” “Just think its three of us in a bed tonight. She’ll soon come round to our way of thinking once you run your silver tongue up her thighs.” Emma turned to Mary who was blushing furiously “She’s very good you know. We only let Guillaume think he’s all we care about but really it’s just us being together.” “We’ve been rubbing ourselves up against him now for three years learning all the secrets of his trade.” “But aren’t you afraid he’ll...” Mary couldn’t bring herself to say the words. “Not a chance. As soon as he feels two tongues on his spotted dick he comes seconds afterwards.” Mary felt faint. “Are you coming to bed then?” Asked Emma. Mary picked her bag up and backed up through the door. She heard Alma’s giggles behind her. Well there was more than one double bed in the inn. She quietly changed into her nightgown then slid in besides Mark. She saw the anticipatory gleam in his eye “Not a chance my love. You don’t have enough energy to even attempt it.” He looked so sad and she felt so flattered she rolled across and kissed him on the cheek. Then she stretched her hand out on his chest and fell asleep exhausted after her long day.

Next morning she woke up and had a feeling she wasn’t alone. Then she opened one eye to find herself snuggled up to Mark. Oops then she recalled last night and the two girls. Did girls really behave like that in such an unnatural way? She slid out of bed then keeping her back towards Mark she got dressed before descending the stairs to see if there was any breakfast going.

“Through here this morning.” Emma called and Mary followed her voice to the kitchen. Alma was making scrambled eggs whilst Emma was frying bacon. Guillaume was sat at the table eating his way through a traditional English breakfast complete with fried bread much to Mary’s surprise. “He says not all English food is inedible.” “But you must tell no one I eat such food. It would not be good for my reputation you understand.”

When they eventually reached Milldale the staff, such as they were, were prepared. Mark was assisted to a comfortable armchair by a fire and provided with a cup of tea served by Polly, a very pretty maid.

Mary was shown through the bedrooms so she could select the most suitable. She chose a pleasant guest room for Mark with a separate dressing room to which she had a small bed moved for herself. It wasn't quite as spacious as the master bedroom but had the advantage of an interesting view from the window and the early morning sun.

When she joined Mark, she mentioned she'd selected a room for him but if he'd rather have another one he had only to say. He made a small movement with his hand to indicate his acceptance before closing his eyes and having a little doze.

Mary slipped away and made her way down to the kitchen. “Is everything to your satisfaction?”. She enquired of Guillaume. He shrugged “C’est suffice for a small meal but for a proper dinner party it is too compact.” Behind him Alma smiled. “It's not what he is used to but for family meals it will work.”.

Mary relaxed a little and turned to address the housekeeper. “And on your side?”. “The remaining staff would like to know if he is going to purchase the estate. It would give them some stability.” “Remaining staff?” “A few have left with the uncertainty although no one locally is hiring.” “You know that his family and fiancee died of the same fever that he is recovering from. The doctor says he is not contagious any longer but suffering from depression. The air in Droylesden is not so good for his cough and it's hoped the fresh air and good food will make the difference but if he doesn’t find the will to live then he won’t exercise his option to buy so we want him to be comfortable and to show the estate at its best so you’d better hire a few replacement servants then.” She hoped she hadn't overstepped her authority but he needed cheering up. “I wondered at the French chef.” “He's here for the month and then we'll see on both sides I think.” The housekeeper spread the word about Mark’s depression. When Polly heard she made her mind up to cheer him up, will he, nil he. She slipped into drawing room where Mark was half dreaming in a comfortable arm chair. She started by slipping off his slippers and giving him a foot massage. Well she hardly dare ask Robert to give him one but she knew the effect it had on her when Robert had given her one once when she had complained of aching feet.

He didn’t look quite as near death as when she started. She grew bolder and perched herself on one of the arms and reached into to work her magic on his shoulders. She’d nearly got carried away when Robert had done that to her. She’d almost forgotten her mother’s warnings until the last minute. Soon she was stroking the side of his neck. She lent in to breathe tenderly on his ear before nibbling it. Mary pushed open the door quietly so as not to disturb Mark. She was fascinated by what she saw. She closed the door quietly and sat in a chair in the hall determined to stand guard. If anyone could cheer him up Polly would manage it.

Polly heard the door close to and thought nothing ventured, nothing gained. She opened the front of her dress and eased her nipple between Mark’s lips rubbing it from side to side until she had a reaction and his lips closed in on it. She felt his tongue gently lick her nipple. There my lad tell me you’re depressed now she thought.

When Mary heard sounds as if Polly was stepping towards the door. Quickly she stepped away to speak to the housekeeper. Could Polly be reassigned to just look after Mark? And where was the nearest place to buy dress lengths of silk? Somehow she felt Polly deserved a silk dress or two for her efforts.

An hour later Polly was sent in to see if she could tempt Mark to eat a little food specially prepared by Guillaume. She found that if she kissed him after each mouthful as a reward he could be tempted to swallow the odd morsel or two.

That evening Mary after changing into her long cotton nightdress thought she’d looked in on him. He looked as if he was sleeping nicely curled up on the far side of the bed. Mary slid in besides him just in case he needed nursing in the night. At daybreak the next morning she awoke and returned to her bed in the dressing room next door just before the first maid came to light the fire in Mark’s bedroom. Angel sneaked in through the open door and padded over to the bed. She leapt up and snuggled down under the warm blankets.

Later Mary took his breakfast in. “Hello Angel like a bit of bacon then?” Angel jumped down from the bed and wrapped herself round Mary’s legs purring. “That’s my breakfast.” Mark declared indignantly. “You wouldn’t begrudge a poor starving pussy cat a nibble of bacon would you?” “I would if it’s my breakfast.” “Feeling brighter then this morning?” Mark glowered at her and sat up to eat some breakfast before Angel had all the choice bits. Mary thought a bit of competition for food had had an awaking effect. “So how long are you here for?” “I was asked to stay a month whilst you convalesce.” “And then?” Mary smiled to him “I haven’t made my mind up yet.” “You have choices?” “I’ll have you know I’m a young lady of independent means.” “Would you consider staying a little longer?” “I might.” “Could I offer you a position?” “I rather like my independence so I’m happy to stay as a guest for a little while whilst you recover your strength.” Well it was something at least. She lent over and kissed him on the forehead. “Guillaume?” He queried. “Well he’s paid for the month by Lady Kilburn with his two assistants but I suspect you don’t offer enough opportunity to display his talents.” “So I’ll lose my French cooking?” “Maybe not. His two assistants I think would be happy to remain and they have picked up how to prepare most of his dishes over the last three years.” “See what you can arrange. I’d mentally budgeted £70 a year.” “For that sort of money I’m sure they’ll be happy to oblige.” He glowered at her again. “I hope that’s for the pair of them, not each and let’s hope out never gets out I’m paying a female so much to cook my food.” Mary smiled to herself as she left the room. He was on the way to recovery.

She spoke quietly to Alma and Emma in their room. “Do you like it here?” “You mean would we like to stay?” “It’s a nice room for us to share rather than be in the dormitory.” “She means she likes the privacy and the double bed.” “I’m authorised to offer you £35 a year each if you’d like to stay.” “Guillaume thinks it’s too quiet. He won’t stay.” “But you could handle the cooking between you?” Emma brightened up. “We could.” Alma questioned “But could Mark accept two females of his staff being in love?” “If we can handle Guillaume I’m sure with tongues on his pecker the master will agree to anything.” “We could serve him lunch?”

Later that morning an experienced valet arrived with a letter of introduction from Mr. Yates. “Just you leave him to me Miss. I’ll see he’s comfortable.” “Polly has had some success in getting him to eat and I think Emma and Alma were going to serve him lunch.” Hazarded Mary. “I daresay we can work together. I’m better at dressing and undressing him and seeing his clothes are in good shape and I dare say the young Misses are better at persuasion.” He took in the bed in the dressing room. “I daresay you’ll be more comfortable being on call at night in the dressing room than I so with your permission I’ll speak to the housekeeper about where I’ll rest my head.” Mary nodded. It would be easier to spread the load.

Emma and Alma entered Mark’s bedroom carrying second trays. “I thought Polly was my personal maid?” Alma bared her breasts. “Anything she can do we can do twice as well.” “I think we ought to feed him like a baby.” Alma looked at her aghast. “No?” “You wouldn’t mind being baby fed would you?” Enquired Emma. Mark acquiesced and Emma took a spoonful of honey and dribbled it over Alma’s breast. “Lick it all up nicely and you may have seconds.” Alma gave her a look then positioned her left breast into Mark’s mouth before it started to dribble down her dress. “See he’s getting something down him.” Emma picked up a whisk and started on a bowl of cream. “I think you’ve licked that one clean. Seconds?” asked Alma and this time dribbled honey over her right breast before letting him lick it clean.

“We thought we’d eat with you. If you eat up all your food like a good boy we’d cover your dick with cream and lick it off slowly.” Emma took a baby carrot between her lips and fed it into Mark’s mouth. Alma bent forward and licked a drop of sauce from the corner of his mouth. It took Mark nearly half an hour to be fed his lunch as each morsel was placed in Alma’s or Emma’s lips first then passed to his. “Think he’s eaten enough?” Alma nodded her agreement and together they exposed his erection. Emma covered it with whipped cream and the two girls slowly and gently licked it clean. “I wonder why the tip tasted salty?” Remarked Emma and Mark shot his load into her mouth. Alma opened her mouth “Let me taste?” And a mixture of Mark’s sperm and whipped cream was transferred from one mouth to the other, followed by a long lingering kiss. “We didn’t shock you by kissing did we?” Mark was throughly shocked but wasn’t going to admit it. “When we curl up in our double bed, Emma has her head towards the top and I lie the other way round. Then we start to lick each other.” It took Mark a moment or two to realise just what Alma meant. “When we’ve both come then we cuddle in each other’s arms and go to sleep.” They left him in mild shock that two attractive girls could do such a thing.

“I think Emma and Alma were trying to shock me. They don’t really sleep together do they?” He asked Mary. “Of course they do.” “But they were slurping my.” He hesitated to name the body part thinking Mary might be innocent. “Girls who like girls best can read males and respond appropriately. It’s not difficult they just don’t get aroused. Polly has a much harder time she responds to your arousal and I suspect it’s all she can do to refrain from grabbing your private parts and guiding them inside her.” Mark looked taken back. He hadn’t been in control with Emma and Alma as much as he had thought. “So it’s all a game to them?” “You enjoy them playing with you though don’t you?” She lent forward to the poor confused Mark and kissed him on the cheek.

Mary had her suspicions about the estate carpenter remembering her time talking to the Romani gypsies she addressed him in Polari. She led him up to the attics to where Alma and Emma were waiting. “I’d like to give them some privacy so we need to partition a room off but can we ensure any noise is kept to the minimum?” “Emma’s very noisy sometimes.” Chirped in Alma. “So two beds?” “Certainly not, one big one. It’s cold in winter and I have Alma to keep me warm.” The carpenter got his chalk, rule and slate out and marked out the floor. “If we put in a wardrobe on this full wall that will keep the noise down. You don’t need a fireplace, its south facing and that wall over there is the drawing room chimney breast so that will keep it fairly warm. Put rugs on the floor and felt pads under the bed legs to absorb sound and vibrations. It’ll take a few days’ work.” Mary gave him the go ahead. He switched to Polari and asked if any two members of staff could have the same arrangement. “Above the carriage house?” Sam nodded.

Three days later the steward made his presence known. “If we're to get a crop in this year, I'll need some direction.”. He looked towards Mark who in turn looked towards Mary. “Well don't look at me. I’m not a steward or landowner. I don't have the in depth knowledge.”. “You can hardly know less than I. Take one of the horses out and inspect the estate with the steward then we can talk.” Mary put her tongue out in a very unladylike gesture. She did however agree to be shown over the estate.

Mounted on a rather inferior horse from the stables, the better stock had been sold off to pay wages, Mary was escorted over the estate. She recalled rather more than she thought she might and asked a few pertinent questions to the steward much to his surprise, when she got back Mark asked her if it looked in good shape. “It could do with a bob or two spending on it but it’s not too bad. I think with three or four thousand spent in the right place it could become quite productive. The tenants’ equipment is rather antiquated and although it’s their responsibility if we lent them a few things we could put their rent up next year to compensate.” The steward looked taken back he was after fifty pounds or so to do the most pressing work. Mark dismissed the steward with a glance. When the door had closed “Draw up a full list of work that needs to be done then go and see the lawyer. Pass him a copy and say in view of the work that needs to be done and money to be spent offer 10 percent less than the option price and see what he says. If he accepts fine if he counters accept the counter. He’s over a barrel because if I don’t exercise the option he won’t get a crop in so that’s a year’s income lost so its worth trying.”

As she set off to the small office to make the copy she passed the dining room and glanced in. There was Polly looking out of the window with Robert stood behind her with his arms wrapped round her waist. “Give us a kiss then Polly.” “What just the one? When have you ever stopped at one kiss? Anyway I’ve work to do.” “Brightening the new owner’s life up for him?” He bent forward and nibbled her ear. Mary silently pulled the door so the gap was smaller to give them a bit of privacy but couldn’t refrain from watching from the doorway as Polly twisted in Robert’s arms and murmured “Just the one then.” Before kissing him on the lips, the kiss lasted a long time and she was breathless when she came up for air. “Robert did you close the door too?” He shook his head. “Well I didn’t.” Let’s hope it wasn’t the housekeeper or we’ll both be looking for new jobs. You’d best slip out first and I’ll follow after doing a bit of dusting.”

That evening after supper Polly and Robert took a gentle stroll in the evening whilst both had a bit of free time. “”I don’t want you falling with child with the new master in fact I’m not happy about you spending time with him at all.” Polly crossed her fingers “I won’t fall with child. He’ll get no further than you will without a ring on my finger.” Robert gave her a look that suggested that was much too far. “Look at it this way if he stays depressed how long will it take for him to die? I’ve seen it before once someone has lost their spouse they quite often don’t last long they just fade away. He hasn’t lost his spouse true but he was about to get married and he has lost his family. If he dies off then it’s unlikely the skinflint lawyers will allow anything more than a caretaker staff here and that means no job for the likes of you and me. We’ve families to think of as well. Mine needs more food on the table and that won’t happen whilst the steward has no funds.” Robert reluctantly nodded his agreement and Polly lent into him to give him a kiss to make him feel better. Life was so difficult, it wasn’t as if she and Robert should a chance of being able to afford to get married besides it was a bit of fun to be able to tease the new master.

“I was expecting something like this but three pages.” The solicitor raised his eyebrows looking down the second sheet. “He’s trying it on.” “True but to get a crop in this year you’ll need to either find some cash or another buyer.” “Split the difference?” “I have authority to accept that. Here’s his signature on an offer at 5 percent less.” “Well it’s a reasonable offer and I have authority to accept.” He pulled out a signed letter of acceptance from his drawer. Mary wondered at the ways of the world of business.

After speaking to Mark she sat down with the steward and together they came up with a sketched out plan that took into account the limited manpower, time and money available. “We’ll have a problem with Muddiman. He can be a bit set in his ways.” Mary thought back to the young pretty maid, Polly that was it. “Do you think Polly could wind him round her little finger?” “That one she could wind any of them round her little finger.” “We’ll leave it to Polly to get his agreement then.” “That’ll work for but not for the Dunkleys. His missus gets a bit jealous.”

Mary put her head of out the small office. “Duncan can you gather up the housekeeper, Stan from the stables and Polly?” She sat back in her chair and awaited the arrivals. “Duncan you might as well stay as well. Mr. Perkins and myself have been going over the estate. We need to make some changes but that isn’t always easy to do. Mr. Kershaw has made some funds available and we’ve drawn up a list of where they can be best used. The tenants in particular are behind the times.” She passed her copy of the sheets of paper she’d handed to the lawyers. These were passed round some were slower readers than others. When they were all done she asked for comments. “Where do I come in?” Asked Polly who had ambitions of being a parlour maid. “Muddiman.” “What that dour old man?” “That dour old man is a tenant and we need him to use a seed drill.” “What’s a seed drill? Why would you want to make holes in seeds?” “Mr. Perkins the steward mentioned it placed the seeds in a row so you needed fewer of them and it would be easier to weed.”

The housekeeper looked across at Polly “You could wind him round your little finger. Just mention they’ve ordered too much seed and you could get him some for free but he’ll have to use a seed drill to spread them out a bit.” “Free that’ll hook him. Yeah all right but what’s in it for me?” “Five percent of his rent next year.” Mentioned Mary. Polly looked puzzled. “More than you’ll earn any other way except on your back.” Added the housekeeper. “And if he was to use some of this here fertilizer stuff that would increase it even more.” Added Duncan knowledgeably remembering his upbringing on the farm.

Next morning Mary was just having breakfast when a distraught Polly accompanied by the housekeeper. “He were just lying there. All cold he was.” “I’ve sent the grooms up from the stable to see what’s up. He lived by himself so it could have happened at anytime.” “All them cows were stood at the farm yard gate mooing away.” Robert came into the room behind them. “I’ll get changed then go and see to them with your permission.” Mary nodded. They needed a replacement tenant quickly. “Does Robert know his way around a farm?” She asked the housekeeper. “Well he was brought up on one but his elder brother was to have it and so Robert came to join the staff. Warmer in winter and there’s always food on the table.” Polly looked up. “Polly it takes two to run a farm properly. Think you could wind Robert round your little finger?” “You mean...” “You could have the banns read on Sunday.” Added the housekeeper just so there was no doubt. “It’s a bit scruffy.” “There’s a carpet or two in the attics and if you don’t mind some old furniture there might be something suitable as well.” Mary held her breath whilst Polly pondered. “I couldn’t bring myself to ask him out straight. That would be too forward.” Mary thought of just how forward Polly had been with Mark. “Leave it with me, just act surprised when he asks.”

Mary put her heavy cloak on and walked down to the farm. She found Robert in heavy boots looking round the yard. “I’ve just fed and watered them but someone will need to look after the stock before you get a new tenant but I’m not sure who’ll you’ll get.” “It would best be someone local, married I suppose, who’d know how to farm. I wonder if Polly would know of anyone.” “Polly?” “Could you ask her for me?” Robert nodded and went to find Polly.

“Polly, Mary asked me did I know of anyone local who could take over the farm. Someone married she said.” “Have you seen the plans Mr. Perkins has drawn up? He thinks they could double the income by drilling holes in seeds. No I didn’t get that right, seed drill I think he called it.” “I wouldn’t mind having a go myself.” Polly held her breath. “You’d need to be married.” “Well girl the farm house has seen better days but shall we give it a whirl?” “Best see the vicar for the banns then?” “Aye we’d better have.” “And there might be a few things in the house attics we might be allowed if we ask nicely.” Robert looked at her innocent face beaming up at him and had a feeling Polly had already been planning it all out long before he spoke.

They came to the stables herding a herd of horses. “Heard we need some have you?” “We’ll talk to the lady.” “The lady?” “Mary I think you call her but we’ve dealt with her before.” Mary was summoned and they switched to Romani. “Gyorgy how nice to see a familiar face.” “We heard the estate had been sold and were thinking you’d need more horses since we brought the old ones some time ago.” “What do you have?” Gyorgy had them brought forth and put through their paces. “Are we haggling over each one or do you have a round figure?” “There’s work?” Mary nodded “We’ll find you work.” Gyorgy mentioned a figure. “I’ll need Mark’s agreement but that shouldn’t be a problem.” Many popped her head round the door. “Gyorgy wants to sell us some horses. It’s a fair price.” “I’ll come down and see.” Suddenly he takes an interest in life? Obviously he thinks himself a good judge of horse flesh Mary thought to herself. Still if it got him moving and downstairs so much the better. She slipped his arm over her shoulder and helped him as far as the banisters. There he could hold on to them with the other hand. Determinedly he staggered down the stairs and out the kitchen door where one of the maids pulled out a plain wooden chair for him to sit on.

Gyorgy and Mark looked each other over. “So he thinks he knows horses?” Gyorgy asked Mary in Romani. She shrugged her shoulders. Gyorgy led the first horse past Mark, it seemed to slump at the shoulders, then he turned round and with a few words of encouragement led the same horse past again this time the horse looked much brighter. He looked enquiringly at Mark. “Enough. I admit I can’t tell the difference between one in health and one not.” “You might get a better bargain at a horse fair if you know horses very well but these are all Irish ones of good quality and worth the asking price mentioned to the lady. You’ll be wanting ploughmen for the next few weeks we can turn our hand to that and whatever the lady would have us do.” Mark mulled about difference he made, the lady it seemed had everything in hand and feeling miffed and not quite like tackling the stairs again decided to take himself off to one of the drawing rooms. Where Polly fussed over him tucking a rug around him and finding him something to nibble.

Mary followed him in. “You could do with more staff. A number have moved on since no one has been in residence.” “As you will.”

“Polly are there any titles here abouts?” “Fancy marrying one then?” “No but I was wondering about Guillaume. It’s a bit quiet here for him.” “I’ll mention it.”

Two days later a crested coach rolled up to the front door and a haughty servant approached the front door and wrapped on the door. “The Earl of Kennet requires a first class French chef for his house party. I have come to collect him.” The footman bade him enter and showed him to the small drawing room used to conduct business. Mary was sent for and she sent for Guillaume. “Guillaume is here to assist us for a month but should he wish to work for you then I feel something can be arranged.”

Guillaume arrived and wished to know about the new post. He turned to Mary. “I like the idea but I feel committed to you for the month.” “Alma and Emma can meet our needs here so I suggest you take the opportunity and dazzle the house party.” “D'accord.” Mary hustled him outside and into the waiting coach. Emma and Alma brought up his equipment from the kitchens. Harold packed his bags and brought them down and within the hour he was on his way.

Mary spoke with Alma and Emma. “How will Guillaume get on without two assistants?” “Oh that’s been taken care of Joan and Peggy will be arriving at the earl’s kitchen door shortly. We’ve briefed them all about his expectations and what sort of job they can expect once he’s shown them how to prepare French dishes.” “But..” “They’re very close friends of ours.” Mary said no more.

“I don’t think that Barry is at all interested in females.” “You mean he’s one of them unnaturals?” “Think he must be. I caught him speaking that Polly stuff to the carpenter.” “You mean Polari.” “Yeah well Polly Polari what’s the difference it’s all the same it means less men to flirt with.” “We could bet Alice she couldn’t get him hard?” “Dead easy money.”

“I bet you sixpence you couldn’t make that new footman grow hard.” Sounded a silly bet to Alice still sixpence was sixpence. “I’ll go and find him.” Ellen and Jane burst into giggles the moment Alice had left them. Mary came across an embarrassed Barry as Alice was trying to kiss him and rub his crotch to get him hard. “Ellen playing her tricks again?” “Well she bet me sixpence I couldn’t get him hard.” “Ewan come and give Barry a kiss please and grope him.” Ewan raised his eyebrows but did as he was bid. “Now then for threepence Barry do you think you could think of Ewan whilst Alice stands there?” Barry nodded. Ewan gave him another fondle until Ellen and Jane appeared round the corner. “Alice you mustn’t flirt with the footmen when they’re on duty. Barry looks extremely uncomfortable.” Mary exclaimed looking down at Barry’s crotch.

Ellen and Jane disappeared back round the corner. “I’d never have believed it if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes and to have Mary take her to task as well.” “Never mind that sixpence is three days pay.” They looked at each other gloomily. They’d thought Alice was too inexperienced to recognise that Barry wasn’t interested in girls and they were on to a sure thing but they dipped in their savings and paid up. Barry and Ewan spent their share on ale down at the pub and toasted both Mary and Alice.

Ellen and Jane noticed later that both Ewan and Barry were both friendly towards Alice and couldn’t understand it at all. Mary had a quiet chat with Alice and suggested she avoid any bets with Ellen and Jane in future.

“Are we paying our staff too much?” “An odd question?” “Well we seem to have engaged a dozen or so in the last few months all very experienced and they all seem happy to work here.” “So you haven’t noticed anything else about them?” Mark scratched his head “Well they do seem to turn up in pairs and many seem to talk cant.” Mary clapped her hands “Well spotted. You didn’t seem to mind Emma and Alma’s relationship. Well the others have similar relationships and the word is out that your estate is not as bigotried as some.” “You mean we have a bunch of fairies working for us?” “Omi-palone is the term I might prefer to use. Fellatio isn’t against the law and anyway as long as you don’t actually know they’re buggering each other does it matter? The work gets done and they’re very loyal. Fewer maids end up in trouble.” Mark shrugged his shoulders. He supposed it didn’t matter that much to him just as long as no one told him and even if they did it would be necessary to prove that both penetration and ejaculation had occurred, plus two witnesses would be required to prove the crime. He thought they would be pretty safe.

Lady Kennet was sitting thinking carefully about the house party they were about to host. The Kilburns of course, hopefully Cynthia would coax a proposal out of her son but who else. She needed a few more unmarried men to give her son a bit of competition plus a few unmarried girls as well. She had a thought who was it they’d enticed Guillaume away from. She’d heard he was unmarried and there was money and land there if nothing else. The absence of title meant he wouldn’t interest Cynthia but he might well do for one of the other unmarried girls who were getting a little desperate. Guillaume would know his name. Those people from the north that her husband had mentioned something to do with investments, the Gannets of course now who else could she invite to entertain her hunting guests?

Notes were exchanged. Mr. Kershaw had a guest staying with him? The invitation was extended to cover his guest. Mary frowned. “You want me to go with you to a grand ball being given at a house party?” “I have your invitation here.” “I’m not sure I should go?” “Why ever not? At least I’d have someone to guide me as to which fork to use.” “I’ll need a chaperon.” “The Squire and his wife have been invited as well so we can all travel together.” It would be a chance to wear her blue silk dress again. “Well what can I say?” “We set off in a week’s time. Now all I have to do is learn a few dances.”

Mary had the ballroom opened up and Mark was drilled every evening for three hours. The servants throughly enjoyed themselves as Mary insisted on dancing with a full set. Mark seemed to enjoy the waltz best, Mary wasn’t so sure it would be danced but if it kept him happy. She insisted though that he dance some of the dances with other partners. Polly’s eyes shone when he waltzed with her.

Mrs Yates looked round, “Well Peggy it looks grand well enough but it looks like chamber pots and footmen carrying up cans of hot water if I want a bath.” “Aye well you can’t expect water closets in the country but I heard tell Guillaume is in charge of the kitchens so your dinner will be good at least.” “I wonder if we could tempt him with a new range and more dinner parties. There’s a lot more money and people back home than to be found in the country.” “I’ll drop a word in his assistants’ ears.” “Has he still got the same shameless pair?” “Emma and Alma? Nice girls in their way but I hear he has another pair now who are just as shameless. Since it’s the grand ball tomorrow, you could have a bath today before the rush?” “Fair enough.”

They took the travelling coach setting off early in the day to allow for delays. Mary’s precious blue silk evening gown hung was in a bag inside the large coach so it wouldn’t get crushed. Mary sat besides it next to the Squire’s wife’s maid who was to look after them both. The journey was at least dry but the highways were dusty and it seemed to find its way into the coach no matter what they did to keep it out.

Peggy was just returning to see to her Mistress when she spotted Mary being shown to her room to freshen up. She spoke briefly to her mistress. “Mary is here and I assume she’s here for the ball.” “Can we do anything to help her?” “Mrs. Yates might be able to command a bath but the lowly Miss Ward not.” “Do what you can Peggy. Spread a few coins about and I’d like my bath immediately.” Peggy curtsied and quickly stepped away. She first collected Mary and brought her back to her Mistresses’s chambre. “If you just like to sit here behind the screen for a moment or two.” Barely five minutes later a bath was carried into the room, followed by four footmen carrying cans. Peggy saw them out. “Now Miss, a nice refreshing bath I think.” “Peggy you’re a miracle worker the maid I spoke to said there was a shortage of hot water for baths before the ball.”

Peggy spoke to Mark and mentioned Mary would be down in the company of Mrs. Yates and both would meet him in the drawing room before dinner. “Mark has never seen you in your blue evening gown has he?” Mrs. Yates inquired as Peggy put the final touches to Mary’s hair. “I don’t believe he has. Peggy you’re a genius.” “And my son will be there as well. Oh I do look forward to this evening’s entertainment.”

They descended the grand staircase together. Mrs. Yate’s son was waiting to escort his mother into the drawing room. Mary felt a throughly feminine glow inside as she held his attention as she descended slowly. “Lucian I do believe you’re supposed to greet your mother.” Lucian shook himself and glanced at his mother who was looking throughly entertained. “Do I need to remind you this is Miss Ward whom you have met before.” Lucian signed her card for the supper dance and a country dance before entering the drawing room. “Mary, I was looking through the estate books and noticed your pension was down as £50 a quarter when it should have been £75. It’s been corrected and you should get the £75 in future. Let me know if there are any problems.” Mary thanked him with a smile.

Lady Kilburn drew her breath in. “Oh dear, I do hope Lionel has forgotten her.” “Is she unsuitable in some way?” Inquired Lady Kennet. “No money to speak of and I was hoping for an heiress for Lionel. She nursed him back to health when he returned from the wars so one can’t be too harsh and in that divine dress she’s lethal. Where are you sitting her?” “She was to be down with the youngsters. But Harold can be pressed into service.” Nothing must go wrong with Isaac and Cynthia.

Lady Kennet swopped “Miss Ward my husband mentioned he’d be delighted to meet you.” Mary was carried off to meet the Earl himself. “Harold dear, Miss Ward whom you were asking to speak to?” The earl caught the look in his wife’s eye. He obviously hadn’t been given a delectable young lady who looked as if her dress might slide off her shoulders at any second to talk to unless it was to steer his son out of harm’s way. Mary spoke first “How marvellous to speak with you directly. I’d been wondering about cross breeding Swaledale sheep using a Teeswater ram and I know you have some experience with both breeds.” “I think I favour using a Wensleydale ram myself. Had some good results. Mind you I still keep a small flock of Merino for the very fine wool you can get. My wife is partial to woolens made from them.” They were deep in a discussion about the different characteristics of the different breeds and what sort of land they were best suited to when dinner was announced. Lady Kennet made a few adjustments to the place settings and Mary found herself sitting next to the Earl. On the other side of her was a Gentleman farmer who had been experimenting with manures and was keen to expound about the advantages of using aged manure over fresh. Lady Kennet wondered if shed been too hard on the poor girl having to sit and listen to all the boring farm stories. Still she was well behaved and looking as if she was taking an interest when she must be bored to tears.

After dinner the ladies left the gentlemen to their port. Cynthia approached and was delighted to see her friend. They sat gossiping until the men arrived. “Isaac meet an old friend of mine Mary who I’m sure has spaces on her dance card.” Mary looked up at this blatant hint. “It’s all right Cynthia and I are very good friends.” “The waltzes are mine by the way.” “Cynthia there are three waltzes.” “So they’re all mine.” “Should I congratulate you know or later?” Mary asked Isaac with a twinkle in her eye. “Shall we see if I’m still speaking to her after the second waltz?” Isaac teased. “Would the minuet be acceptable?” Mary curtsied gracefully as Isaac signed her dance card. Mark had strolled across to them and Mary introduced him to them. “And no before you hint I’m not familiar with all the dances especially the minuet.” “But a country dance or two at least?” Cynthia fluttered her eyelashes and held out her card. Lady Kennet arrived with a Miss Annabelle Huckle who was deemed a suitable match for Mr. Kershaw being the third daughter of a second son.

Lady Kennet ushered her guests through to the ballroom and the first minuet. Mary took her place opposite Isaac and very carefully and elegantly danced the minuet with him. Mark watched in awe as Mary gracefully and correctly danced the complicated dance. “I don’t think I could ever master the steps.” He remarked to Annabelle. “You mean you haven’t taken dancing lessons?” Replied Annabelle in shock. “Mary had me practising for the last week but I only know some dances not all.” Annabelle took pity on him. He was quite pleasant really apart from his odd accent and mama had mentioned he was quite wealthy enough to purchase his wife every luxury. She knew her duty. Together they quietly discussed which dances he knew and before he knew quite what was happening her dance card was signed for two dances including the supper dance. She almost nudged him for a third but thought she’d see how the first two went. Perhaps after supper she could persuade him out on the floor again?

Mary’s flawless dancing of the minuet together with the fact she was ineligible meant she was inundated with introductions and requests for dances. She managed to keep all her waltzes free by scribbling an indecipherable name against them.

Mark was feeling a little miffed. Lady Kennet seemed to have an endless supply of young ladies that she brought across to him and pointedly introduced. Mary beckoned him with a smile “If you’d like to ask me to dance this waltz is free.” “I thought I’d never get to dance with you.” “It’s very formal so if you dance more than two dances with the same person that’s tantamount to an offer of marriage and an acceptance.” “Good grief. It’s a social minefield and where does Lady Kennet find all these empty headed young ladies?” “They’re taught to simper and defer to superior masculine judgement.” “Well they seem dull to me. You never defer to me?” “Ah but Cynthia was taught the social graces in the afternoon whilst I spent it with the steward.” They twirled and Mark remarked “I think your dress shows rather too much of you.” Mary smiled to herself “There are other dresses here that are far more revealing.” “Yes but you’re not wearing them.” “Would you like me to take it off then?” She teased and smiled at his confusion. “I’m free for the next country dance?” she spoke questioningly. He led her into the nearby set that was forming up.

Annabelle thought she’d better remind him it was her dance next so stood close to him as he chatted to Mary. Mary was carried off by yet another young Lord and Annabelle stepped forward in front of him to remind him of her presence. They stepped on to the floor and Mark had to concentrate a little to ensure he remembered the steps. Well until Annabelle tried out her small talk and confounded Mark completely. Fortunately Mary was close at hand so nudged him in the right direction. The supper dance being a waltz he found easier with fewer people to keep track of as they moved around him. Over supper he found Annabelle’s interest in himself flattering until he saw a pattern in her questions and diverted the conversation towards herself. As he led her back to the dance floor after supper they started to play another waltz. “I think you mentioned this was one of the dances you’d learnt?” She simpered. Alarms bells went off in his head. Three dances were dangerous. “You’re so right I must find Mary.” He deposited her with her mother and caught Mary’s eye.

“Well if you’re quite sure?” “I’m sure besides you come with £200 a year and every little helps.” They swept onto the floor and eyebrows were raised. “Apparently I’m not to get my £200.” “No matter.” “It should have been £300 so it’s been adjusted.” He bent forward and kissed her lightly which caused all sorts of gossip. Annabella’s mother turned to her and murmured “There will be other fish in the sea.” “I think he was the goldfish though.”