Mr. Winters 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. ©2018

Luv Karen

Harriet looked down to the letter. Surely they must have made a mistake. Her father-in-law took the letter from her and read it. Captain Odell, his second son, had been killed in action. He guided a shocked Harriet to a chair then turned to his wife. “Percy?” “Percy has been killed in action my dear.” She collapsed into an armchair. Married four years but he’d only been there for her for a week at the end of her season before he was off to defeat Napoleon. Well she had a collection of monthly letters she supposed. She’d been left behind with his parents just for a month or two whilst everything got sorted out and they were planing to move to his estate on his return. Now four years later what was she to do? She had the income from the estate of course, the steward was trusted but she couldn’t see herself remaining with his parents. Her cousin’s daughter Charlotte would be sixteen now perhaps she could help prepare her for her season next year. She might even do the season with her and look for a new husband. It would certainly keep her occupied during her year of mourning.

She wrote and received an invitation by return of post. Her in-laws had expressed conventional sorrow at her leaving them but they had their own sons and daughters to look after. Her cousins welcomed her with open arms. Charlotte when she stirred herself from the stables was especially pleased to have someone nearer her own age to guide her. “I’ve been training carriage horses, some of them are really daft but others can read your mind.” “I thought you needed strong wrists for that?” “For a team of four or six and a heavy wagon yes but I start them off one at a time with a very light training cart and lots of praise. Briggs says I have the knack for getting them started.”

“Bloody animals, high strung and they nip or kick you as soon as you turn your backs on them.” The groom rubbed his leg gently then supped his ale. “Hush lad he’s just come in through the door.” Burt supped his ale in the Bush and listened to the squire’s son boast how fast he could drive with his new matched team. He’d managed the fifteen miles from the Red Cock in two hours and ten minutes. The time was unbeatable. He held the pub enthralled as he described every furlong of the way and how he’d feathered blind corners to gain speed. Sam turned to Burt, “It must have been a sight to see.” “It must have been at that. Is it my round or yours?”

A week later he was driving Mr. Winters back from London town and they pulled in to the Red Cock to pick up their own team to do the last stage. “Harry, do me a favour write down the time and date on this bit of paper for me and witness it.” The landlord did as he was bid. The game was on. They pulled away and Burt gave them their heads, he knew the road very well so knew when to draw back and when to push them.

As they passed the Bush he threw a weighted bag down to one of the bystanders and asked him to pass it to the landlord who looked at it then blinked. Looking at the church clock he scribbled the time and date down and his signature then posted it on the bar, ninety three minutes for the fifteen mile distance.

“You’ve made yourself a laughing stock and brought disrepute to the family name. Thrashed not just beaten by a minute or two but thrashed by a team of job horses and I know for a fact not one of them cost more than thirty quid. God you might have four bloody horses the same colour but to pay four hundred guineas for them and have them thrashed like that, by a bloody coachman for God’s sake. Another title might have been acceptable but not a coachman on a regular run. Did you take our groom with you when you looked them over?” “I take that as no. You thought you were a better judge of horseflesh. Get out and get rid of that high strung team as quick as you can otherwise they’ll be a reminder to everyone.”

Charlie lay back relaxed in his armchair. In front of him Ann and Liz were stretched out naked on the rug, Ann’s chest was glowing as Liz tongued her between her thighs. He wondered how he’d ever come across these two saucy maids and cast his mind back five years when Liz had tumbled into his lap as she was dusting. He’d slipped his arm round her to stop her from falling only to have it guided to her breast. Ann had put her head round the door. “After extra money then young Liz?” “Oh does it pay extra then?” “I’ve no money at present.” “I’ll take it in them share things then in the canal company.” “Me too.”

A pound’s worth of shares per week each. They were the highest paid maids in the land. Still they were well worth it. Inventive as well, he’d never had thought that two girls could bring each other to such a response. They pampered him and he was happy to enjoy their pampering. He found it relaxing after a long day tramping round muddy fields and chasing men to get things done. He didn’t wish either of them to fall with child but they were very, very inventive and found ways to keep him amused. This evening was special he could tell by the way they ran their hands over his body. Soon two tongues were slurping his pecker, Liz slurped as he ejaculated and caught his sperm in her mouth before kissing Ann who opened her mouth wide afterwards to show him what had been passed in the kiss.

“That canal thingy, is it finished yet?” “Well the first part is almost finished.” “Does it come with cottages?” “Why would you like one?” “Not alf.” “What she means is at twenty three she’s growing old, Mags her younger sister has had her first bairn and she wants one.” He leered at them. “Wiv a hubby to change the nappies.” He calmed down rapidly “Do you have a hubby picked out?” “Alf, he’s a farm labourer but he’s bright and can turn his hand to anything.” “So you’d like a cottage?” “Wouldn’t mind and a job for Alf, but not one on the barges when he’ll be away a lot.” “Lockkeeper?” “That’ll do nicely.” “I’ll have one as well, next to hers.” “There’s a mile between the nearest two locks.” “Twenty minutes walk.” “Do you have someone in mind as well?” “Alf has a pal so he’ll do me.” “We’ll miss looking after you though.” “And the silk dresses. Though I suppose we’d better leave them behind or Alf and Tom will get an idea of what we’ve been up to.”

Charlotte stood admiring herself in the mirror, seventeen, old enough for a season. “Harriet are you going to do the season with me?” “If your pater can find the money then you’ll get your season.” Charlotte looked glum, “A bad harvest and delays in building whatever he invested in can’t mean I get put off until next year can it?” “We’ll have to see what can be contrived.”

They had a family conference. The upshot was there wasn’t enough money to cover the cost of travelling to London for the entire family, to rent a house in a fashionable area and buy a complete set of clothes required from a fashionable modiste. However if Charlotte didn’t mind staying with her great-aunt Dorothea, who didn’t move in the highest circles and being chaperoned by Harriet they could just about stretch to a season if her father put off paying the bills until after the harvest.

Harry looked over his stock. He’d gambled and brought more than he could be certain of selling but with the discount he’d got by buying in larger quantities and the price offered in bringing it back in a full barge load he’d been tempted. Now as long as his dressmakers got paid and paid him before he had to pay his bills he’d be fine. If he managed to guess right on the fashion side he’d make a killing. If not well he could always go back to the barrow. For the moment though he needed to eat and you couldn’t buy on credit in the market. Judith she owed him a bob or two perhaps she could pay him at least a bit on account.

“She’s with a client right now but you can wait in the office. I’ll get you a cup of tea whilst you’re waiting.” Alice led him to a small office with a chair and a desk. “It’s Harry.” “Wanting money no doubt. Keep him occupied for twenty minutes or so I’m expecting Mrs. Walsh in then and she’s good for something on account.” Alice returned with a mug of tea and some small cakes that were kept on hand to serve the more favoured clients. She wondered how on earth she could keep Harry occupied for twenty minutes. There was a pack of cards on the shelf. She reached up to lift them down and glanced through the peephole that showed what was going on in the changing room.

Lady Violet was getting changed and her new dress was one of Harry’s materials. “Harry come and have a peep at Lady Violet in her new dress. We’ve made up some silk we had from you.” Curious Harry had a peep only to see Lady Violet get undressed as she changed. “Your undergarments will show with this neckline so I suggest you get changed into something slightly different.” Lady Violet removed her chemise and undressed above the waist and allowed the assistant to help her into low-cut stays that helped support her breasts but didn’t cover them. Alice eyebrows lifted at the sight of Harry’s arousal. Well it would keep him occupied. She gently brushed her hand over his cock out of curiosity more than anything else and it responded to her gentle touch. “Let’s have a butcher’s then.” She whispered in his ear. Harry moved over and Alice quietly gasped at what she saw. Turning she whispered once more “Cor blimey she’s practically starkers and that Chantal is running her hands over her Bristols.” Harry gawped once more. “Now it’s best if we get your nipples hard so you can see the effect they might have under the dress.” He fumbled then slipped his hands over Alice’s breasts and squeezed them gently imitating Chantal’s movements. Alice froze to start with then she could feel herself starting to warm up. She undid her blouse to give him easier access. “What’s she doing now?” She whispered “She appears to be covering Lady Violet’s breasts with her mouth. Alice gave a groan and Harry moved his hand up over her mouth. Alice opened wider and ran her tongue over his fingers. Then she undid his fly buttons. All pretense of she wasn’t enjoying this as much as he was gone. She gently wrapped her fingers round his hardness and ran her thumb over the end.

“Now this particular shade would look very good against a flushed skin. Shall I demonstrate?” Lady Violet whimpered and Chantal stroked her body in ways that soon had her moaning softly. Well if Lady Violet moved in the first circles wearing his materials that might be very profitable. He looked down at Chantal’s hand on Lady Violet’s thigh and the way her skirt was ruffled up. She couldn’t possibly be? “Have a look and tell me what’s she’s up to?” Alice peeped through the peephole and saw Chantal’s finger had disappeared up inside. She pulled away “She’s got her finger up her.” “What like this?” Harry slid his hand up Alice’s thigh and his finger into her moist welcoming slit. “My you are wet.” He turned and kissed her and Alice felt herself melting. “Now just look in the mirror and see how the colour goes beautifully with your skin colour. A bit of rouge on your nipples and your husband will soon have you back to bed.” “He’s too elderly for that. I don’t think I’ll ever be satisfied.” Harry’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as Chantal knelt before Lady Violet. He moved out of the way so Alice could have a gawp. “You could knock me down with a feather she’s bloody eating her.” “Eating?” “Well giving her a good licking. I’ve heard of it but thought it was a fairy story.” “Will she like it?” “Bloody hell yes. She’ll be able to keep it up longer than the average cock plunging in and out. Just the thought of it.” Alice gave a little shudder and her final squeeze on his cock brought Harry off as well.

“We’d better get you tidied up before anyone comes.” “You mean again?” Alice gave him a saucy look. “How fast can you get it hard again then?” They’d just finished tidying up when Judith arrived. “Hello Harry, Alice been looking after you has she?” Harry coloured up and mumbled something incoherent. “Lady Violet is in I’m surprised Alice didn’t show you the peephole so you could see her in her new low-cut dress. If you have a quick peep through the hole into the dressing room she should be visible. It’s there so I can keep an eye on things.” She took in the guilty faces in front of her. “Chantal’s been up to her tricks has she? Still come back on Thursday about eleven. She’ll be back then to try on her new nightwear. You know that gossamer stuff you got for us. You should see it made up. Of course it needs the right young body to show it off to best advantage. Now then I can let you have a couple of quid on account since Mrs. Walsh has just paid me a bit towards my bill. Shall we say an extra five percent discount and you can spend an hour in my office three times a week with the door locked with Alice? Alice, you get half by the way.” “Alice sends word when to come an’ I get tea and them fancy cakes an’ all?” Judith kissed him on the cheek. “But of course and I’ll make sure it’s Chantal assisting.”

Harriet sat quietly in the pew and looked round at the church. She wondered about all the people who had attended services here over the last hundred years. At the end of the service she listened to the banns being read. Interesting both Ann and Liz were getting married. She’d have to stop by and exchange gossip.

She saddled up and rode across to Mr. Winters’s modest four bedroom home with a stable in the back. “Good Morning Burt is this the famous team that thrashed the Squire’s son’s record?” “The very same Mrs. Odell. Mind you it weren’t hard work him being a bit gormless when it comes to driving a carriage. Still it were a grand run and I was lucky no sheep were being herded that day. Now would you like to feed them each a carrot?” He passed her a handful and Harriet fed one to each different coloured head as they poked out of their stable. Mr. Winters or Charlie as Ann and Liz called him was an oddity, he paid his bills on the nail but didn’t attend church. Chapel she’d heard say. According to Ann and Liz he spent his time looking at muddy fields even though he wasn’t a farmer. He certainly wasn’t on her cousin’s calling list.

Burt stabled her horse and Harriet entered the kitchen door to find Ann, Liz and Charlie having mugs of tea round the kitchen table. “Dropped in for chat have you? First put wood int' 'ole, love, it's blowing a gale and Charlie’s nesh these days after his trips down south. Now sit thyself down and I’ll make you a brew and help yourself to a havercake or two.” “The pair of you are looking in fine fettle, both of you finding fellas and deciding to get wed at the same time? And what will Charlie do for servants when you leave?” “Well the clock’s ticking if we want to have children and Charlie offered two lock keepers’ cottages on the canal. As for the other my fourteen year old sister and her friend will take over, not everything but enough. Mind you I think its time Charlie got wed meself. He needs someone to look after him. Want to take him on?” Charlie smiled at her. “Not just at the moment.” She said looking down at his muddy boots. “Oh I clean up right enough. You could do worse.” Charlie sat back a little and let the girls catch up with the gossip. “How’s life with Charlotte? Is she to get a season or not?” “Her dad’s proper skint and even the mail coach fare down to London is considered expensive.” Charlie got up and wondered off returning with a map that had a pencilled line drawn on it. “Have a gander at this luv. If I could build a canal across that strip it would save me money and make the journey shorter. The steward said no chance but want to have a natter with her dad about it? I can either buy it from him or give him shares in the canal if that works better for the entail.” Harriet took the map from him and said she’d enquire.

“You could give her a ride in your coach when next you visit London?” Suggested Ann. He looked at Harriet, “Two of you at most, and one small bag, two pillows and a rug each. I travel light and I travel fast and yes I have business to attend to in London this week.” When Harriet left he went out to the pigeon loft and released a pair of pigeons to fly to London.

Charlotte’s father took shares in the canal for his part of the bargain and two days later as the sun’s rays first lit the sky Harriet woke Charlotte and with her maid’s help had her quickly dressed and waiting by the front door. The small light coach arrived with Charlie at the reins. “In you get.” Bert helped them arrange themselves in the coach as Charlie drove off putting one pillow on the bench to sit on and the other for them to rest their heads against.

He handed them a warm sausage in a roll for breakfast before putting his head on a pillow to cushion him from the corner and was quickly asleep. An hour and a half later they drew up at the Red Cock and the team was quickly changed. They set off this time with Bert driving and Charlie in the coach. Charlotte smiled as they passed the clock, “Well we beat the squire’s son’s time at least.” Charlie looked puzzled so Harriet took up the tale. “The squire’s son was boasting about having driven his new team from the Red Cock to the Bush, a distance of fifteen miles in two hours and ten minutes. Next thing I hear is a sheet of paper witnessed by the landlord of the Red Cock and the landlord of the Bush giving a time of ninety-three minutes by Burt was nailed up on the bar. Of course I’ve never seen it myself but it was the village gossip for many a day.” “Burt didn’t mention anything.” “I understand the four hundred guinea matching team were sent to auction shortly afterwards.” “Poor lad, do you think I should offer him my team for four hundred guineas?” “A mixture of a bay, chestnut, grey and a black doesn’t look like a fashionable team.” “They work well together though, I must speak to Bert about upsetting the gentry.”

He settled himself in the corner and dozed until the next change of horses. “You there.” The groom looked up. “Yes sir.” “I’ll be having those.” Charlie was stood by the coach and shook his head. “Begging your pardon sir but those are not available.” “Do you know who I am?” “No idea.” “Sir Francis Yeatman, now I’ll have those horses for my coach if you please.” “They’re Mr. Winters’s private team sir, just stables them here for when he travels. I’ll find you a team from the stables shortly sir.” Sir Francis motioned to his coachman to take the horses. “I don’t think you want to do that. Horse stealing is against the law.” Charlie helped attach the team and they drew quickly away, leaving Sir Francis shaking his head in disbelief at a mere commoner having the audacity to stable his own teams along the road.

“Does he have his own teams stabled everywhere?” “No just on the road to London.” “It seems very extravagant.” “It’s just his way. He says they’ve paid for themselves a dozen times now.” “Where will he stop for the night?” “If there’s snow or heavy rain he’ll stop otherwise we’ll drive straight through the night. They’ll be expecting us in London.”

Late in the evening they pulled up at a farm and were welcomed to eat whilst the horses were changed. “You’ll be wanting my Joe to drive you I expect?” “We’ll leave you Bert in exchange?” Harriet looked up. “Oh Bert’s my brother and Joe doesn’t mind a quick trip to London town, there’s some business or other he wants to attend to.” “But isn’t he tired?” “He thought Charlie would be coming through today so had a nap this afternoon. You’d better press on if you’re to catch the mail.” Harriet had thought they were travelling in a private coach all the way but it seemed they were to finish the trip by mail coach.

They set off and at the next change of horses asked after the mail. “Just gone by not ten minutes ago.” Charlie took the reins and they set off in pursuit soon they slowed the pace down and then the mail coach pulled over to let them pass. “We haven’t changed to the mail coach?” “Bless you, that’s not the reason we wanted to catch up with them. No driving at night is not so easy so we’ll take a spell leading with the mail following us then he’ll take a spell leading on the section with the bends since he knows the road better than we do. That way we’ll both travel faster, especially at night when there is less traffic on the road.”

Eventually they pulled up at a large terraced house in London in the early morning. “Out you get and Joe will take the carriage round to the mews.” Harriet felt as if she never wanted to set foot inside a coach again. Dobbs opened the door “Two guest rooms for the ladies. We travelled straight through so find them a maid and a bath each.” “Thank you and how can we ever repay you?” Charlie blinked then called out “Sally!” Sally came scurrying out. “Want to try your hand at two evening dresses for this evening’s do?” Sally looked them over. “It’ll take more than one pair of hands.” “Can it be done?” “I’ll need two other seamstresses but yes it can be done.” “See to it then.” “Permanent jobs? I’ll need to offer them an inducement seeing as it’s near the season. Emma might but she’s a widow wiv two children.” “It’s a big house so go ahead.” Once in their allotted bedrooms Sally took their measurements and left them and Harriet and Charlotte collapsed on the bed.

Harriet and Charlotte slept most of the day, but in the late afternoon they were disturbed by the seamstresses for fittings. Harriet looked at her evening gown, not perhaps what she would have chosen herself but it would do. “Did you really manage to create this during the day?” “We had a bit of help with some of it but yes once we got started it seemed to fall into place. It’s what I’ve always dreamt of rather than sewing buttons back on.” Harriet looked surprised. “A button came off his favourite shirt so I was added to the staff and hired to sew it back on.” “It seems extravagant.” “Oh I do other repairs for the staff and make the occasional shirt. It’s not a bad life, I have a roof over my head and food in my belly all year round but the thing I like to do best are dresses. There now I’ve pinned it up so it shouldn’t take long. Hopefully Claudette will be here to sort your hair out before dinner. Do you want a snack beforehand?” “Why is the food so poor?” “No but Claudette mentioned her last didn’t like to appear to have a good appetite when dining. Jean-Paul is preparing something special tonight so it should be perfection itself.”

Claudette appeared shortly afterwards with a tray of tea and small snacks. “You missed lunch so I thought a snack would help. I’m Claudette and if it pleases you I’m to attend to you madam.” “Are you part of the household?” “Only if you approve. I was turned off without a reference when it became apparent my last charge had eloped. Sally knew me so I’ve been called in on short notice madam.” “Well if you drop the madam in private I’m sure we’ll get along.” She took a sip of tea. “Delicious.” “Jean-Claude will be pleased the blend met with your approval.”

Claudette had Charlotte enter Harriet’s room. “It’ll be easier for me to do you both together. Now hair first then we’ll lower the dress on to you.” Sally sat by the side as Claudette worked her magic with both girls hair. “Charlie has some nobs coming tonight so it’s posh foreign food to soften them up. I suspect you’re part of the softening up process.” She looked them both over. “You’ll do.” Charlotte pouted “Only do, I was hoping to break a few hearts tonight.” “You might even manage that now off you go to the drawing room.” They descended the stairs and Harriet had to look twice at Charlie in his evening suit. “My you do clean up nice don’t you? Perhaps I’ll marry you after all.” Charlotte stood shocked at the banter and Charlie turned to her. “Do you think we have time for a turn round the garden so I can roll in the mud?” “Better not, you might get a spot on my new dress.”

The guests arrived, all male bar one who brought his wife. “Mrs. Odell how nice to see you again. Is your husband with you?” “Unfortunately he died at Waterloo.” “My condolences my dear. I should have moved faster and proposed before he did. My only excuse was that light blue dress you wore to Almack’s was so stunning that before I could move he’d whisked you away in a waltz.” Harriet laughed gently, “Careful or you’ll find yourself a married man.” He backed away quickly. Harriet threw herself into hostess mode making sure she spoke to each guest. Charlotte looked overawed. “They’re so old.” She whispered. “Yes but they have money, just think what a dash a young widow with money could cut me dear.” Came a voice from behind. Charlotte turned and placed her hand on his arm and looked up at him sweetly. “But could you keep up with a young wife sir. Think of the exertion.” He groaned and smilingly Harriet added “Shall add your name to the list of eligible suitors then Sir? I warn you now Charlotte loves to be up bright and early, discuss her day’s activities over breakfast and positively adores being escorted whilst shopping of course.” He was saved by the butler announcing dinner was ready.

Harriet noted there were both footmen and maids serving the meal. Sally, Emma, Lucy and Claudette amongst others had all been pressed into service. She noted that although she warranted a footman the male diners seemed quite happy to be served by a pretty maid. “So are we to expect an announcement of your nuptials shortly?” “Well I’ve offered myself but Mrs. Odell hasn’t accepted yet. They are neighbours who will be staying with Charlotte’s great-aunt shortly for the season and her father has been kind enough to allow us to cut across his meadows saving us two locks and three furlongs of the canal.” “We are indebted to him.” “So bring her along to my daughter’s do tomorrow night.” Harriet was interested to see the discussion centred on finance and progress being made in the canal and other projects. Charlie gave a report on the progress they were making and said they hoped to be earning revenue on the newly opened section of the canal by the end of the month. At the end of the meal Harriet stood and the three ladies withdrew to the drawing room whilst the port circulated.

“It is nice not to be the only female present and to be able to discuss more important things such as fashion.” “Why are we the only three?” “Well my brother-in-law passed away last year and it took my husband six months to sort out the finances and as a result he wants me to understand a bit more about our finances. We have the estate of course but to spread the risk of a bad harvest we invest in other things.”

Charlie saw the last of his guests to the door. It had gone better than he’d hoped but the cost per yard of the material was shocking. He’d do better on the morrow. “Sally sort out two more evening dresses.” “For tomorrow evening?” “But of course.” Early the next morning Charlie assembled his female staff together with Harriet and Charlotte. “Harry’s been slow paying but he has a warehouse full of material so I thought we’d see if anything took your fancy and it would clear a few invoices.” Charlotte blinked and supped her tea. “Did we really have to get up in the middle of the night?” Harriet hushed her but she continued to gently moan on the way there.

Leaving the others in the coach Charlie entered the warehouse as Harry was opening the door. Charlie riffled through a sheaf of invoices as he stepped through the door. “Morning Harry.” “Well it was until you turned up with that lot.” “Harry you’re just a little slow paying.” “I’ve a bit of a cash flow problem at the moment, end of next month any good? Or you can have it in stock, plenty of that.” He gestured to the overflowing shelves. “Thing is my customers’ clients haven’t started to settle their bills for the season yet and until they do I’m sunk. I’ll give you trade prices.” He added brightly.

Charlie turned and gave a whistle and the girls trooped out of the carriage. “Harry has offered trade prices to settle some outstanding invoices so see what you can find to your liking.” “What’s he think we are a pack of dogs whistling like that?” Murmured Charlotte to Harriet. She looked at the front of the dilapidated warehouse. “Doesn’t look very imposing does it?” “Hush, he’s been good to us so far.” They entered the warehouse and looked at the shelves stretching away covered in material. “Now ladies take your time. There are three isles to look through.” Harry looked them over. “Doing the season are they?” Charlie agreed. “Almack’s or the fringe? If it’s Almack’s I’ve got some new stuff just come in that I wouldn’t mind being shown off there.” “Well Mrs. Odell certainly has attended in the past.” “T’other?” Charlie frowned “You could put in a good word and show my stuff off.” “I can’t guarantee anything but as you say I could have a word. They’re attending Lord Elmsley’s ball this evening so not quite fringe.” “Top drawer then.” Harry turned to Claudette “Bring them into the office.” The office was cramped but at the back was a collection of the most lovely silks Harriet had ever seen. “Right girl what do you think?” Claudette looked over the material then beckoned Sally and together they marvelled at the material. “I’ll let you have this at half price on the understanding you’ll wear it at Lord Elmsley’s ball and if you get to Almack’s you’ll wear it there.” “Five dress lengths each?” “Sounds about right.” “You’d best find me another half dozen I can use as a sweetener.” Claudette picked out the material she thought would look best and held it against the two girls. “Agreed?” “I don’t think we should accept it but it’s too beautiful to resist.” Charlotte nodded in awe.

“So how much can I spend?” Asked Claudette. Charlie showed her the total amount and she looked questioningly at Harry. “Spend the lot, I’ll still make some money on it even at trade prices and with a bit of luck and showing that material off in the right places both I’ll make more money and so will Charlie for transporting it.”

Claudette, Charlotte and Harriet set to with a will choosing material and having it set aside on the counter top. Harry kept a running total. “You’ve a bit still to go. Now why don’t the rest of you maids take a look through the remnants I dare say Charlie won’t mind.” Harry grinned at him as Charlie pulled a face. Sally, Emma and Lucy merely gave him saucy looks as they dived through the remnants. Claudette eyed Charlie up, “A bit of shirting perhaps?” “Go ahead and pick a few dress lengths out for yourself.” He added in a resigned voice as he peeled off a few notes from a roll of flimsy. “Have a few to pay your staff and buy a bit of food. I’ll have it back off you at the end of the season.”

The coach was so full of material that Claudette had Charlie sit in the corner then suggested to Harriet she sit on his lap to save space. When Harriet protested she shrugged her shoulders and said “I’m riding with the coachman on top, the maids will walk home. There is more fabric to fit in, so it’s either Charlotte sits in his lap or you.” Harriet sat on Charlie’s lap, Charlotte squeezed in besides him and Claudette packed in a few more packages of fabric around them.

When they returned Claudette discussed with Harriet and Charlotte about which material and design the two important dresses would be best given the limited resources they had to make them up. Harriet felt it was better to leave it all in Claudette’s capable hands and Charlotte nodded in agreement. With the three seamstresses, Claudette, and even Harriet and Charlotte lending a hand the two evening gowns came together. In the late afternoon both were sent to have a rest and lie down before the evening’s entertainment.

They seemed to queue for the best part of an hour before their coach drew up at the red carpet and they stepped down. A large umbrella and an awning overhead protected them from the light rain that was falling as they stepped out of the coach. They climbed the steps into the house, Harriet with her hand on Charlie’s arm and Charlotte coming up behind. “Your invitations sir?” asked the butler. “I don’t have one but if you check with Lord Elmsley you’ll find I’m expected.” The butler turned to Lady Elmsley who frowned then he nodded to two footmen to step forward. Harriet wondered if they were about to be ejected. “Mr. Winters, I’m so glad you could make it.” “Mr. Winters? I’ve never heard of a Mr. Winters.” “I invited him last night. I should have mentioned it to you I suppose.” He turned back to Harriet “Welcome Mrs. Odell, if it wasn’t my daughter’s ball I’d say you are the belle this evening, leave her a few hearts left unbroken if you please.”

Charlie led Charlotte out and Harriet stood at the side and watched them before noticing the gentleman who stood before her. “Forgive me but I’ve forgotten your name.” “Shame on you Sir Percival, it’s Mrs. Odell now.” “Ah yes I recall it all now. I must offer my condolences.” “Thank you sir.”  “Are you doing the season?” “I’m really chaperoning my cousin Miss Yates.” They passed the time with small talk until Charlie returned Charlotte to Harriet. “Enjoy your first dance?” “Definitely.” Harriet performed the introductions and Sir Percival led her out on to the dance floor. Charlie produced a list of names, “Any chance you know any of these? And could you arrange introductions?” “Well Miss Juliana Hervey is stood over there. I knew her sister when we did our seasons together.” “Lead on my dear, lead on.”

“So how are you finding this evening?” “Thrilling sir, it’s my first ball.” “It is fashionable to say one is bored.” “I do apologise sir for not saying you were boring.” Sir Percival blinked and almost missed his step. “Dash it all you aren’t supposed to tell your partner he’s boring.” “But I didn’t. I quite distinctly remember apologising for not saying it.” The dance drew them apart and on the sidelines his sister looked delighted at the confusion on his face. She edged round to Harriet and curtsied. “Hello I’m Lydia, Sir Percival’s sister. Just who is the delightful girl who’s partnering him at the moment?” The curtsy was returned “Hello I’m Mrs. Harriet Odell so you may call me Harriet. I’m chaperoning Miss Charlotte Yates who is partnering your brother.” “It’s the most animation I’ve seen in him in a long time.” Harriet’s eyes twinkled. “I wonder what is being discussed?”

“How on earth did you manage to remove the look of innuendo from his face?” “Oh easy I apologised for not telling him he was boring.” Lydia turned to her brother. “Yes well I was saying it wasn’t the thing to tell your partner they were boring.” “But I didn’t.” Protested Charlotte. Lydia laughed “You poor misunderstood thing.” She turned and met James’s eye. “Come and rescue the poor girl.” “We’ll have this out later, save me the supper dance.” Sir Percival stormed off and James led Charlotte on to the dance floor. “Well you certainly ruffled his feathers. I haven’t seen Percy so animated for years, well done.”

Harriet kept on eye on Charlotte and worked her way through Charlie’s list of girls he should lead out. Seeking an introduction here and there herself first before lining them up for him. It was odd the way that once he had danced with one she was asked to dance more often. Finally they reached the end of the list. “So who were they?” “Duty dances with daughters and nieces of my investors. Still I hear a waltz now so would you do me the honour?” “Charlotte?” Lydia was nearby “I’ll look after her for the moment.” “Charlotte hasn’t been approved for the waltz by the patronesses of Almack’s yet.” “But since it is very unlikely she’ll ever be approved for Almack’s does it matter?” “I must show you a list of my investors sometime.” She was shocked by his words and he’d whirled her off on to the floor before she caught her thoughts. “The first dance I’ve enjoyed all evening.” “Thank you sir. I take it you’ve said that to all the girls?” “God heavens no, for most dances there isn’t that much chance to talk to your partner and secondly most are so nervous the wrong word might shock them.” Harriet relaxed and with Lydia there to keep an eye on Charlotte managed a dance or two herself. She did however find time to seek out two or three less popular young ladies and introduced them to Charlie who dutifully led them onto the floor.

Charlie was on hand as the supper dance arrived and with Sir Percival partnering Charlotte she felt safe enough to have a second dance with him. Lydia and James made up a merry table of six of them. Sir Percival didn’t manage his private word with Charlotte due to the general conversation and witty remarks that were soon flying around and across the table. “It’s no good you know if you want to talk to her you’ll have to invite her out driving in the park.” Sir Percival looked at his sister then invited Charlotte to drive with him in the park the following afternoon. His offer was graciously accepted after Charlotte enquired Harriet’s permission.

After the dance Sir Percival scrambled to find a pair of matched bays. He dropped into his club and was fortunate enough to hear of a pair going for a song apparently the seller had found them too nervous for London. Probably just a ham handed driver he thought. Two or three members scurried over to the betting book as they heard him commit to buying them.

Next morning as Charlie wondered down for breakfast. “Dobbs have we opened a florist or some such?” as he gazed at the floral tributes that seemed to fill every available spot of floor in the hall. “I believe it is customary for young ladies to receive them after a ball.” Charlie shook his head. “I’m in the wrong business or maybe not I wonder where they come from and how they are transported? Are they all for Charlotte?” “Mostly but there are more than a few for Harriet as well.” Charlie felt a bit grumpy for some reason and wondered when Charlotte’s great-aunt Dorothea would be arriving.

The girls arrived shortly afterwards chatting about all the floral tributes they had received. “What shall I wear when I go out driving with Sir Percival?” “It had better be one of your old dresses, Claudette seemed to think it was more important we had something for when the morning callers arrive.” “He’s probably more interested in you than your dress.” Murmured Charlie from behind the paper. “What time do we expect morning callers then?” “Oh sometime this afternoon.” Dobbs came in with the post sorted into two piles. Those for Charlie and a flattering number of invitations for Charlotte and Harriet.

“Lord Turner.” Announced Dobbs as he opened the door to Charlie’s study. Charlie blinked “Have you come to call on the girls?” “No, no just to yourself and to thank you.” “For what?” “Leading my daughter out last night.” “Dobbs grab Harriet if you please.” Shortly afterwards Harriet arrived at the study door. “Did I lead out Lord Turner’s daughter last night?” “I slipped in one or two that weren’t on your list.” “Why?” “Well once people had worked out that you were dancing with investors’ daughters and so forth it meant whoever you danced with would have a reasonable dowery and so become very popular.” Lord Turner laughed “You mean he didn’t pick his own dance partners?” “I had a little list that seemed to have been enlarged.” Lord Turner turned to Harriet “In that case I thank you instead. It certainly turned the trick and she was in demand most of the night after your dance together.” He reached in his pocket and drew out a card. He passed it to Harriet “Scribble your name on the back and Charlotte’s if you please. I’ll expect the pair of you to attend my daughter’s ball and we’re having a small dinner party before hand so come and get fed. You may bring Mr. Winters as escort.” He turned back to Charlie, “My man of business has been instructed to place twenty thousand with you by the way. I’m sure you can find something useful to invest it in. Good Day.”

Dobbs was in his element as the ton came to pay their morning calls. He seldom had chance to show his talents off. Only when Charlie was in residence and had a dinner party. Still on the other hand it was better paid than many of his fellow butlers who worked for a title. He announced every title correctly and with relish. Charlie caught sight of several young ladies with their chaperons as he crossed the hall. Afterwards he asked Harriet why they attended. “It’s sign of Charlotte’s success. They know her partners will be attending and she can’t talk to them all at once.” Charlie shrugged the ways of the ton were definitely odd.

Sir Percival looked over his new pair as he drove the curricle to pick up Charlotte. Well they looked the part although he wasn’t crazy about them shying at every little thing. His groom had ridden with him but now stood at the horses’ heads as he went to the door to find Charlotte waiting for him. Charlotte was in raptures over the pair “What are their names?” “Nip and Tuck.” She dug in her reticule to find an apple and a knife. Soon slices of apple were being scooped up from her palm. “Tuck here’s yours as well. Now then you are a pair of beauties aren’t you.” She fussed over them and eventually Sir Percival handed her up in to the curricle where she picked up the reins. “You wouldn’t begrudge me the pleasure of walking them to the end of the road would you?” “They’re a little nervous.” “So I’ve noticed but I’m sure they’ll be fine.” She talked to them gently and described the road ahead to them before nudging them to a slow walk. “There my beauties it’s very inconsiderate of the lady to wear such a large hat isn’t it but I’m quite sure a pair of big brave lads such as yourself can manage to walk past it.” Sir Percival noticed his new pair responded well to her gentle reassuring words and were noticeably less nervous than they had been before. Charlotte held them to a steady walk until they reached the park “Now lads let’s show them how a trot should be done. Hooves up, Nip eyes front if you please.”

“Carew isn’t that Fletcher’s folly harnessed up in Percy’s curricle being driven by a girl?” “What the ones he was driving when he broke both arms and a leg?” Graham raised his glass “Good grief you’re right. Think we should keep an eye on them to see the crash?”

“James I think you’d better let me drive.” “Why?” “Because if Charlotte is the only one driving a curricle in the park today the gossips will start.” “You want to protect her?” “She’s driving my brother.” “But he rarely takes females up never mind letting them drive. Do you think he’s teaching her?” “In the five o’clock parade? No and he thinks himself a better driver than he is.” “Righty oh then.” He pulled his curricle up to the side and they changed places. “You do know how to drive I take it?” “I was taught by my big sister so yes I do know how to handle a pair.”

Lydia drew up James’s curricle alongside Percival’s “Do come to tea tomorrow afternoon and we can have a good gossip without my boring brother being there.” She flipped the reins gently and pulled away before her boring brother could make a comment beyond “Dash it all.” “She’s teasing you.” “If ever a fellow was put upon by his sister.” “I think its time to return now. This pair have been very good today but I think they need to return to their stables. Have you had them long?” “First time out. I was beginning to think they were a mistake on the way to pick you up.” “They’re just a little nervous that’s all. They need lots of fuss and praise then they’ll be fine but eight o’clock in the morning might be better for them than five o’clock until they settle down.” “I take it you know about horses?” “Just a little, my family raises carriage horses and it was my job to introduce them to the training cart. I could work Nip and Tuck up if you like but these fashionable gloves aren’t ideal for driving in.” She dropped them down to a walk once they’d left the park and talked to them all the while she was driving them to give them confidence.

After dropping her off he brought the pair to a trot once more but after they had shied for the third time and his groom asked him seriously if he should lead them back to the stables he relaxed and let them walk at their own pace.

“I don’t know what to make of her?” “Who brother dear?” Replied Lydia “Miss Yates.” “Got under your skin has she?” “Her dresses are different and I can’t think of any other woman who would take a pair of nervous horses through the five o’clock parade. Speaking of which what shall I do with them?” “Fletcher’s folly?” “Yes.” “Well they seemed to trot nicely for Charlotte. You could ask her advice.” “She’s offered to work with them to overcome their nervousness in the park each morning at eight.” “So?” “I’d be a laughing stock if it got out.” “Ask her to wear a mask?” “You think I should then?” “I suspect she could do it and they do need some help. Think of the look on Fletcher’s face when you sail past him in the park.” “I’ll ask her then and the dresses?” “Oh simple, the cream of the ton pay enormous sums to the finest dressmakers. Each has their own signature so it’s recognised the wearer can afford such dresses. Charlotte’s great-aunt is not part of the inner circle and Charlotte’s dowery will be merely respectable so she’ll be looking for a husband in the second or third sons.” “Seems a waste. She’s quite bright. How did she end up at the exclusive Elmsley ball then?” “Something to do with Mr. Winters.” “Mr. Winters but he hasn’t even got a title.” “Yes he’s in trade but he makes money for his investors, lots of lovely loot and Lord Elmsley is one he has made lots of money for.” Lydia smiled to herself and thought if she wasn’t so enamoured of James lots of lovely loot might just compensate for a title. Charlotte found herself invited to help Sir Percival with his new pair each morning. Harriet smiled to herself as well when she heard.

Charlotte’s great-aunt Dorothea sent word she’d arrived in town so the girls were packed up and moved to their new more fashionable address. “Well girls I’m delighted to see you now we must put our heads together and see what we can do for clothes. You’ll need at least one maid as well between you and we need to get you a few invitations. Your mother wrote and said funds were limited which might restrict us little but I’m sure Mrs. Puddephatt will invite us to her entertainments.” Harriet spoke up “We have had one or two invitations already perhaps you can look through them and advise us which to accept?” She handed over a stack of invitations that had arrived for them at Charlie’s. Great-aunt Dorothea looked through them. “But these are from the cream of society. How on earth did you manage to get them?” “Oh Harriet charmed some old fuddies at some dinner that Charlie gave and they arranged the invites. I thought Lady Elmsley was going to have us thrown out but Lord Elmsley intervened and it was all right. The lobster patties were out of this world.” Great-aunt Dorothea sat down carefully. “Let me get this right you attended Lady Elmsley’s ball?” Harriet nodded “But what did you wear?” “Charlie exchanged some bits of paper, invoices did he call them, with Harry who found us some material to make up a pair of dresses. They were nice. I can show you if you like.”

Great-aunt Dorothea shaken got up and went to inspect the dresses. “Who made them?” “Claudette designed them, Sally, Emma and Lucy made them up with a few stitches from ourselves.” “And who pray is Charlie?” “Charlie is Mr. Charlie Winters to give him his full name. He does something in muddy fields and has investors.” “Trade, nothing could be more fatal than a connection to trade.” Great-aunt Dorothea exclaimed.

“Charlie do you have any more buttons to sew on?” “Nay lass why?” “Well there’s the four of us with nowt to do and you’ve paid us for the year.” “Can’t you go and run up a dress or two for the girls?” “If you like.” “We could take some of that material we had from Harry’s?” “Fair enough.” “But you can’t just make a present of it?” “Why not it’s not my colour besides they’ve earnt it. I had another new investor round today after dancing with his niece. No that’s their commission on the introductions and smoothing things over at the dinner party besides if we hadn’t relieved Harry of some material he’d had gone under. He brought twice as much material this year as last so if he sells it all good and well but if he doesn’t that’s factory workers out of work for next year, and a few boatmen out of work as well. No Harry’s a good customer when all is said and done.”

Claudette organised the coach and filled it with material. At great-aunt Dorothea’s house they entered through the kitchen door and spoke to the housekeeper. Who led her up to great-aunt Dorothea presence. “Begging your pardon madam but this young person is desiring a place as a maid.” Harriet entered “Claudette, how wonderful to see you. What are you doing here?” “Well once you’d left Charlie didn’t really need three seamstresses and a lady’s maid anymore so he wondered if we might run up a few dresses for you. He’s paid us for the year and we have Harry’s material sitting in the coach outside. There was mention of at least he wouldn’t have to feed us if you’ll have us.” Great-aunt Dorothea frowned. “He sounds encroaching.” “I think he said that Harry had overreached himself and if we hadn’t taken the material off him the invoices would have been worthless anyway and a few factory workers would have been out of work as well. Oh and he mentioned the blue silk might look better on you than on him.” “It’s still unusual for a man to pay for staff like this.” “He said something that it was commission for introducing him to a few new investors, dance partners? And smoothing the dinner party down as he put it.”

“Have we room for four new members of staff great-aunt Dorothea?” “Well I suppose if they don’t mind sharing one of the guest rooms. I think we can find a couple of beds but are you sure this person is capable of being your lady’s maid?” Claudette took a deep breath in but was stopped from whatever she was about to say by Harriet. “She turned us out very well for Lady Elmsley’s ball. Charlotte managed to catch Sir Percival’s eye.” “For one dance?” Humphed great-aunt Dorothea. “No two including the supper dance and he came to parade her the next day round the park at the fashionable hour.” “Sounds is if you don’t need me at all.” “Nonsense great-aunt we need you for guidance, besides you’ll enjoy watching all the young men make fools of themselves over Charlotte.”

Great-aunt Dorothea and her dresser inspected the material together with Claudette and decisions were made about how many gowns of which type Charlotte would require. Harriet as chaperon would need fewer but Claudette was determined to see them both turned out as they should be. Invitations were inspected and ranked according to desirability. Mrs. Puddephatt’s invitations could not be overlooked but there was a more relaxed view of how necessary they might be.

Charlotte went driving with Sir Percival early each morning and much to Great-aunt Dorothea’s disappointment he didn’t seem to be acting the part of a besotted lover. The only conversations she overheard seemed to be about how to calm a pair of horses down and get them used to London traffic. “Charlotte did I hear you taking Sir Percival to task over the way he handles the reins?” “He’s getting better. I’m teaching him.” “In my young day a lady would never dare criticise a gentleman’s handling of the reins.” “They would if they saw Percy with his green pair.” Great-aunt Dorothea closed her eyes and moaned.

Three days later whilst Lydia was still there they had a late morning call from the Countess of Sefton. Harriet admired her dress. “Thank you. Lydia your brother was kind enough to salute Lord Fletcher in his mother’s carriage in the parade yesterday. Poor lamb breaking two arms and a leg like that. I wonder why he crashed, it couldn’t possibly have been Fletcher’s folly as Sir Percival’s new team have been nicknamed could it? They seemed perfectly at home in the park yesterday. I wander if he’ll consider teaching one or two others how to drive a pair?” Charlotte bristled and the subject matter was changed to more general gossip inconsequential patter of on dits until it was time to leave. When she mentioned casually “Mrs. Odell I came to remind you we expect to see you once more at our little dance on Wednesday night. I have your voucher here.” She turned to Lydia “I understand your brother’s drive through the park yesterday earnt him ten grand from the betting book at White’s. I do hope we’ll see him at Almack’s. There will be many who will be anxious to see him once more.” Charlotte bristled grew pink with indignation. Harriet hurried to her side and laid a calming hand on her arm. The Countess of Sefton laid down two envelopes on the table and passed through the door. They had barely heard the front door close when Charlotte exploded.

“She knew I’d worked that team then to have the effrontery to tell me Sir Percival had won ten thousand from my efforts makes me mad and to make it worse she’s hinting that he’s suddenly become more attractive husband material because he won the ten thousand is too much.” “Well the only way to get your hands on the money would be to marry him yourself.” Lydia casually dropped her bombshell into the conversation as she rose to take her leave. Charlotte paused and you could see her brain ticking over. Harriet picked up one envelope and turned it over before passing it to Charlotte. “Really? She wants me to pay ten guineas for a subscription ball?” She turned to her great-aunt “Can we afford it?” “Can we afford not to pay it is the question. Of course we can and must. Now I wonder why?” Harriet remembered the material that Charlie had asked for as a sweetener and it all became clear. “Charlie’s hand is in this.” She announced. “But he’s trade and nouveau rich. They’d never let him in.” “They won’t let him through the doors but he has connections though.” “I’d better make sure my brother is on hand to escort you hadn’t I?” Harriet smiled sweetly, Charlotte’s smile was more determined.

“Mr. Winters I need some more pin money so thought to visit my husband’s solicitor.” “I’ll come with you if I may.” “Certainly I suspect they’ll be patronising to say the least.” They made an appointment and arrived together. Charlie stood at the back of the room as the solicitor brought out the file. “Probate came through last week. Now as you can see the estate income isn’t very high but we’ve had an offer to buy the estate and if we invest the money in government bonds you’ll have an income of £500 a year.” “That sounds very reasonable and more than my allowance used to be but I’d like to just show the file to Charlie.” Charlie stepped forward and glanced through the file. It didn’t feel right. “There doesn’t seem to be any mention of investments here?” The solicitor took a look through and then turned to the shelf behind “Ah here we are, my clerk must have been behind with the filing.” “You’ve notified the bank that the account has been transferred to Mrs. Odell?” “You mean to run the bank account? We can take care of any bills and so forth I assure you.” “A letter if you please and you have receipts for the income for the last five years that have been paid into the account?” The solicitor went a little red in the face. “The income is noted in the file and will be deposited shortly if it hasn’t been already.” “A draft for the outstanding amount please.” A draft was made out and handed over. “Now I will mention the offer on the estate is only good until the end of the month.” “Thank you Mr. Dean we will get back to you before then.”

Together they went to the bank. “Mr. Winters how nice it is to see you again.” “Mrs. Odell is your customer today.” She handed over the letter of probate and the letter from the solicitor. “Yes well that seems to be in order. Now which gentleman will be looking after your affairs?” “I’ll be looking after my own affairs thank you. Now I have a deposit to make and I’d like to withdraw £100 if you please.” “That is rather a large sum.” “Mr. Winters can carry it for me.” “Now if you’d like to talk to one of our financial advisors?” “Not just at the moment thank you.” They walked to the till at the counter and the money was counted out and passed to Mr. Winters. Together they walked out and climbed into the carriage. “Thank you for coming with me.” “It was my pleasure Mrs. Odell. I’d like to show the estate accounts to someone who knows about estates if I may. Estate accounts are not my strong point.”

They sat down to a superb four course meal and Lord Talbot looked round the table. “Winters you might have one of the best chefs in town but I’m curious as to why I’ve been invited this evening. I doubt if either of these two young ladies wish to marry a penniless title so what are you after.” Charlie handed him the estate accounts. “I’m puzzled by them. The income is fine but the expenditures seem very high.” “Mrs. Odell’s?” Harriet nodded. He looked through them “Let me guess your husband married you and left you with his parents but you were to move to the estate when he returned from the fighting?” She nodded again. “If you look at the entries there are entries for new drains, a bridge, barns, cottages, farm equipment and roofs. My guess is your steward was instructed to take a run down estate and bring it up to scratch. Could be wrong of course.” “She’s had an offer of seventeen thousand pounds for the estate.” “If my guess is right its worth ten times that amount. I think you should go and inspect.” “Thank you. If you’re right I think I should pay you some sort of professional fee.” “That’ll be a first. Descended into the professions, my ancestors will be turning in their graves.”

Harriet left Charlotte and Claudette with her great-aunt and with misgivings about travelling at Charlie’s normal rate they set off. Sally sat quietly in the rear facing seat with a groom from Charlie’s London home acting as coachman. “John will see us there safely. I don’t have my cattle stabled on the Banbury road but it’s not so far to the estate we should do it in a day.” They rolled up as dusk was falling. Harriet looked out at the golden stone walls as they drove up the drive and came to a halt at the front door which opened on their arrival. “Mrs. Odell welcome to the manor. My husband thought we’d be seeing you soon.” “Have we met?” “Bless you I was just one of the crowd at your wedding. I’m Mrs. Jenkins and my Sam was there to receive your husband’s instructions about his new estate. Now in you come. It won’t take a minute to make up some beds although we aren’t fully staffed I can have a few girls come up from the village within the hour. I’ve sent young Tom off to fetch my husband from the top meadow and bring him home.” A border collie put its nose out inquisitively at the visitors. “I hope you like dogs. Rascal here is semi-retired now but Sam likes to keep him around the place to train the new dogs. He’s become a household pet and lives in the warm kitchen these days but the younger working dogs we keep in the stables.”

Harriet entered and was shown over the house. “We salvaged what we could and Alf does a bit of carpentry in the winter time but you’ll be wanting to chose some new furniture at least if you were to live here. We’ve been living in the manor house rather than the steward’s cottage for it does no good to not keep a house aired, mind you I’ll miss the kitchen range and the water closets when we move back.”

Sam, Harriet and Charles sat round the table and Sam explained what had happened. “Captain Odell had me look round for an estate that could be improved and I found this one. The owner had been in poor health for some time and had died more than a year before, since then it’s been hard work with all the improvements but it’ll pay off in the long run. Well it has been, the income’s up now to what it should be and most repairs and improvements are finished so the expenses will be down here on in.” Harriet looked at the income “So we can expect an income of eight thousand a year?” “More or less, depending on the harvest. We might be able to push it up a little in time there are some new breeds I was planning to try out.” “It seems not quite right to take my husband’s money in this way.” “Oh your father-in-law matched your dowery and your husband had a bit of money left over after buying his commission and his kit so I’d say your dowery paid for a good part of it.” “I hadn’t realised it was that much.” “Well its worth quite a bit more than seventeen thousand pounds at least.” “True enough but the idea of one bad harvest is a bit frightening. Perhaps I should take you up on your offer of marriage if it’s still open?”

Charlie looked up from the map of the estate. There was a quarry not far from the canal, now one of these new tramway things would be ideal. “The canal up north is pretty well complete. The major decisions have been made and we are less than a day’s travel from London.” He tilted his head to the side “You aren’t bad looking either.” Harriet picked up a cushion and thumped him with it. Sally slid in through the open door with a bunch of freshly picked flowers which she thrust in his hand. “You’re supposed to mention loving her sir.” Harriet continued to thump him, “I knew I’d forgotten something. Yes love if you’ll forgive me for being flippant it would be nice to get married.”