Date: Tue, 4 Dec 2012 17:41:04 +0000
From: Jo Vincent <joad130@hotmail.com>
Subject: Tom Browning's Schooldays  Ch48

			 Tom Browning's Schooldays

				    By

				   Joel

			    Chapter FortyEight



     "I would like to play number Seven, sir."  Mr Skrimshire motioned me
to sit on the bench.  I looked at the two manuals and the stop-knobs
arrayed each side.  I counted quickly.  There were twenty in all.  Ten for
the Swell and nine for the Great and one for the Pedals which I would not
use.  I saw there was both an Oboe on the Swell and a Trumpet on the Great.
Taken in all, the organ was just a little bigger than the one at Careby
though I noticed it had a Sesquialtera of three ranks rather than of two
ranks on our Great.  Mr Skrimshire watched as I selected a full chorus on
the Great with Flutes at eight and four foot on the Swell which I coupled
to the Great.  I nodded at Herbert who began to pump and I began the Largo
making sure I was ready to play the Echoes on the Swell.  I was so pleased
that I was able to reach the end of that movement without any mishaps.  I
added the Oboe on the Swell for the second movement and had the box half
open to begin the Vivace on the Great.  As this progressed I opened the box
a little more but closed it down when I came to the Echo passages where I
had to change manuals.  When I got to the last fourteen bars I managed to
pull the Trumpet stop and opened the Swell box to make the ending as
thrilling as I could.

     I sat back and placed my hands on my lap.  I heard a murmur from
behind me and Mr Skrimshire came up beside me.  "I will hear Master Goodhew
now."  He must have turned to him.  "Tell me which one you will play?"

     "Sir, I will attempt number Eight.  The one in A minor which also has
two sections, a Largo and a Vivace as number Seven."

     I slid off the bench and Robin took my place.  We grinned at each
other and I was amused at his use of the word 'attempt'.  He would play
perfectly, it would not be a mere venture.  He saw which stops I had
employed and added the second Diapason to the Great and took off the
Trumpet.  Full Organ again for the opening Largo and he made the dotted
rhythms sound most grand.  For the Vivace second movement he drew a two
foot stop I hadn't noticed on the Great and this helped to emphasize the
differences between the loud and soft passages.  As I had done he also drew
the Trumpet stop to add brilliance at the end which it did for the final
sixteen bars after the pause.

     There was a respectful silence for a moment or two but Branscombe
could not contain himself.  "That is as good playing as one could wish
for!" he said, "I had heard Master Browning play the pianoforte at Lady
Digby's At Home so I knew he had skill on the keys as well as with his
flute."  He went up to Robin who had turned on the bench when he heard his
fag master speak.  "And you, Master Goodhew, are a great credit.  It puts
us all to shame that we have not learned to make such music."  He bowed to
Mr Skrimshire who had a smile on his face.  "Sir, I hope I have not spoken
out of place."

     "My boy, that was well-deserved praise," he said, "I heard them last
night and was impressed then by their playing, as I have said."  He looked
from Robin to me.  "You have acquitted yourselves most creditably.  I think
there will be a repeat before and after this afternoon's service."  He
patted me on the shoulder.  "I would be obliged if you would take my place
at the organ before the service and perform all of Number Seven. Such
playing will quieten any murmurings I am sure."  There was a murmuring of
assent from the four listeners.  "Master Goodhew, you will complete the
service." He held up a finger.  "That Vivace on Full Organ and, if you
dare, add our Pedal stop from the G sharp after the second quaver run to
the end."  He prodded my arm.  "And you are not to be let off the ordeal.
That last Adagio is but a few notes and needs to silence all the chatterers
for Mr Ridley to begin so your feet must be active, too."  He looked at
Branscombe who was grinning and nodding his head.  "Do you concur that they
should play?"

     "Sir, please do not take it amiss when I say there will be more than
the usual attention paid when our fellows realise who is playing."  There
was more than a murmur of 'Hear!  Hear!' from the other three.

     "Sir, I did not know how they would fare when I drew your attention to
what Master Browning had told me," Theo said, "My opinion that they would
succeed has been more than justified.  I now regret I had not taken up my
mother's offer to have the music master who taught my sisters take me for
lessons on the fortepiano, too.  It is a skill I now regret not having."

     "Then with Herbert's help they will succeed."  Mr Skrimshire pointed
towards the lad.  "There will be need of good wind, my boy," The brawny
youth smiled and nodded.  He turned his attention to us.  "I will be here
at half past three and we will practice where your feet must fall.  I could
see you have good knowledge of those endings so it will not be difficult to
match your feet with your hands I am sure."  He smiled.  "Thank you for
giving such great pleasure to us.  There will be more no doubt."

     Robin took down the music book from the rest and walked with me and
the others out of the Chapel.  When we all emerged both Robin and I were
patted on our backs and congratulated.  I felt we might have been hugged
also by George and Branscombe, they looked so pleased.  I walked with Robin
along the path and felt so proud for him and for me.  As we entered the
doorway I realised that when I was with my Robin I had no thought for my
tempter, Henry Radcliffe.

     George was not to let me dwell on any triumph.  As we went into our
room he began to grumble.  "The pair of you have prevented me from going to
the stable to see how Barbary is faring.  We cannot ride today so I was
just minded to talk to the beast as at least he might understand good
English rather than that Latin which I must attend to."

     "I thought you had completed your prep.  What other do you have?"
asked Theo.

     "There were two more lines on the other side of the page which I had
forgot," he admitted, "They must follow on from that about the bees."  He
scrabbled through the small pile of pages which he took down from his part
of the shelf.  "It is here somewhere.  It was only that Culshaw asked me if
I had found what some word that sounded like buckle meant.  It was good
that Mr Ridley entered to begin the service so I did not show my ignorance.
Ah, here it is!"

     Both Theo and I looked at his neat writing.  I read it out.  'Aut
errans bucula campo decutiat rorem et surgentis atterat herbis.'  The word
like 'buckle' must be 'bucula' which I knew was 'heifer'.  The first words
were easy 'Nor straying heifer...'.  I did not say that as Theo wanted
George to do his own work.  I also had work to do.

     The organ at Careby had but an octave of rods for the feet and Aunt
Matty had said we should concentrate on making sure our fingers were
dextrous.  Of course we delighted in pressing two or even three of the
pedal keys at the same time to make a good grunting or even farting noise.
This when Aunt Matty was not present or we would have had either our ears
boxed or be forbidden to play.  The organ in the Chapel here had at least
two octaves of rods and I knew they followed the pattern of the keys on the
manuals.  I opened the music book and looked at those last four notes, G,
D, then an octave D below and the final G.  With the slowness of the Adagio
it meant I had time to place my feet from left to right, then left and
right on the last note.  If I could gauge the distances I was sure I would
succeed.

     As Theo was intent on helping George with the trampling heifer on the
dewy grass I went to see if I could talk with Robin.  Maitland and
Branscombe were playing at backgammon which was not allowed in many
households on the Sabbath, according to my brother Terence.  We had played
it many times while he was recovering from his broken leg - even on the
Sabbath - though I knew my father played only on weekdays with Uncle Dodd.
They must have been rather penitent at having been discovered for Maitland
said they were not wagering on any outcome.  That, he said, would not be
allowed even in the most dissolute of families.

     "You know of such families?" teased Branscombe, "Do they thrive in the
North as I know of none in our Canterbury?"

     Maitland snorted.  "My dear fellow, I conjecture there must be such
persons but I know only the best of Society which must be of a level of
your acquaintance and that of the Archbishop!"

     "I have not met the Archbishop so do not know what company he may
keep.  If you had kept watch you would see you have just missed the
opportunity of taking all my possessions had I wagered them on a Wednesday
rather than nothing on a Sunday!"

     I whispered to Robin so as not to disturb them that he should look at
the those last few bars.  He nodded and whispered back he had them under
his fingers so would concentrate on how he might place his feet.

     Maitland must have been distracted by our whispers for Branscombe won
again.  We were told to go and find another place to gossip and only return
if we were silent.  We made our way downstairs, found the cubbyhole by the
washroom and closeted ourselves in there.  Before Robin could open the book
I confessed my feelings for Radcliffe to him and hugged him so tight he
almost dropped the volume.  I hurriedly told him of waking with the boy
nakedly entwined with me and that both of us were aroused.  I forbore from
saying what a fine long pizzle it looked when erect.

     Robin was smiling as he held me tight as well.  "You are not the only
one to feel that attraction.  I confess to you I would have relished waking
that way.  I had a great desire to hold his arm much longer and when I saw
his britches open and that lengthy pizzle on show I knew I should leave.
Then we met on our way to breakfast this morning and what could I do but
show friendliness by sitting with him" He leaned towards and kissed me.
"There, my dearest Tom, that is my confession.  We must take care we are
not misled and make each other upset.  I would have him as a friend,
perhaps, but I have you..."

     "...A friend, that is all," I whispered to him and we held each other
for a few more moments.

     Robin was the first to move.  He let go and we moved apart.  "Let me
see what I have to do."  We found an old bench under a small high window
and sat together while Robin ran his finger along the notes in the last few
bars at the end of his piece.

     "You can see I have but nine notes to play," he said.  I followed his
finger with mine.  "How should I put my feet for those first three?  G
sharp, A then the F above.  Those last ones I can move my feet for each one
to the final A."

     "Perhaps those first two with your left foot just moving between them
and your right foot for the F."  He was nodding.

     "Then left, right, left right, left and right for that final note!"
He moved his feet on the dusty floor.  "We could draw the rods on this
floor and imagine them and move our feet accordingly."  He leaned down and
rubbed his finger in the dust and I knelt and drew the rest of the set for
him.

     "This shall be our practice organ," I said looking up into his face
and flashing eyes.  "There is that other organ we have..."  I was giggling
now remembering George's rudeness.  I told Robin then of that comment and
that George had been reprimanded by Theo.  "Do not worry for Theo has the
same nightly desires as all of us..."  I stopped.  Although Robin had said
he had seen the silver ring in Branscombe's cods he had not revealed
whether there was evidence of what might occur when the candles were
extinguished.

     "...And so do my masters," he whispered.  He giggled more.  "And their
bed squeaks in that rhythm we know so well!"

     I was kneeling before him.  What could I do?  I had quenched my own
desire this morning without him.  I was with him now and I needed to make
amends.  I leaned towards him and as I unbuttoned his britches I confessed
my thoughts again for Henry Radcliffe and how I had that immediate need and
the great desire I now had for him.  He was already erect as I sucked and
laved that most wonderful stem of his.  He held my head so tenderly as I
moved back and forth until with almost a sigh he gave me his sweet juices
to savour.  I took them all and then stood and our lips and mouths met and
shared his offering.  I had thoughts now only for my Robin.

     He stretched his arms around me as we parted from that tenderest of
moments.  "Tom, whatever thoughts we have of that boy we have each other
first!" he whispered.

     He buttoned himself and together we laughingly stepped on our dusty
rods.  "If these were real I warrant we would make a good showing," he
said, "Let us leave this until we see Mr Skrimshire this afternoon." I
agreed and we left that little room which I now knew could be a welcome
trysting place.  I had noted there was a catch on the inside so others in
the past must have tarried there!

     We made our way upstairs and Robin said he wanted to consult Aubrey
Bayes for Mr Martin had passed him a sheet with two difficult calculations
on it which they had to prepare for Mr Dimbleby.  I said I had not seen
Aubrey in Chapel but had seen Collett speaking beforehand with Mr Dimbleby.
We went to their room and all was made clear as we stood outside.  There
was someone in the room who was coughing loudly.  I knocked and Fraser came
to open it.

     "Ah, young Tom, has Dr Dimbleby sent you with some good draught for
the puir wee lad?" he asked.

     I explained we had not seen Dr Dimbleby and it was Robin who wanted to
discuss some mathematics with Aubrey.

     "I wouldna enter just the now," he said, "My opinion is he took a
chill on that awful coach and it is on his chest.  Collett has asked Mr
Dimbleby for a remedy from his son and I was thinking you may have it."

     There was some commotion downstairs with a shout of "Get out of my
way, you damn fool!  You should know I'm the doctor not some thief!"
Pullen must have roused himself to act as the guard dog he should be but
had made a grave mistake.  Dr Dimbleby soon emerged at the top of the
stairs carrying his leather doctor's case.  He spied me on the landing.

     "Ah, young Browning, have you examined the patient yet?"  He saw
Fraser standing at the open door and must have gauged his worried look.
"The boy?  That is him coughing?"

     "Aye, sir, he retches as well and is heated," said Fraser standing
aside to allow Dr Dimbleby to enter the room.  Being more than inquisitive
I followed rather hesitantly leaving Robin outside.  He whispered he would
be in his room.

     Bayes was not in his truckle bed but lying on the main bed covered
with blankets and the feather coverlet.

     "My mother says when there is fever to keep well-covered," said
Collett who was standing at the head of the bed and wiping Bayes' flushed
face with a soft washcloth.

     Dr Dimbleby went to Aubrey and put his hand on his forehead.  "That is
so, my good fellow."  There was a pause.  "Yes, he has a chill and fever I
would say and sweats.  You are doing well," he said to Collett.  Aubrey was
coughing now.  "His throat needs easing and we do not want that to descend
into his chest.  First he needs a potion to ease that throat."  He took
Aubrey's hand from under the coverlet.  "Can you hear me?"

     Aubrey coughed and very hoarsely said he could but it hurt to talk.
Dr Dimbleby squeezed his hand.

     He turned to me.  "And what would you prescribe, young sir?"

     Was I being tested?  I must take care.  If he was feverish and in a
sweat he would need liquid.  Good, clean water.  Lancelot always said not
to trust some wells as he had experience of the flux in patients if the
water was brackish or stale.  Lancelot did say good boiled water was often
best.  I knew there was good clean water from our well but would note the
other to Dr Dimbleby.  Then to clear his throat he would need something
emollient.  Honey with a drop or two of the poppy juice and perhaps a
little ipecacuanha added to clear the phlegm.  I thought that a hot
compress to the throat might help as well.  Not so hot to scald like those
children I had heard about.  I said my piece and Dr Dimbleby nodded.

     "You have been taught well.  I would concur with each of those
particular remedies."  He turned to Fraser.  "Please arrange for a good
amount of cool water for him to drink and also to bathe his temples.  We
shall need a pan for heating water and some linen for the compress.  I will
make a mixture for him in the meantime and young Browning can assist me in
that task."

     Fraser took up his cloak and hat and went out and down the stairs very
quickly.  Collett asked what might he do and Dr Dimbleby said to continue
and he could later bathe Aubrey's face and brow.

     Dr Dimbleby opened his case and took out several bottles and
containers, which he placed on the desk after pushing books and papers
aside.  I recognised some of the names, 'Ipec', 'Squills', 'Laudanum',
'Liquorice', 'Oil of Cloves', 'Cream of Tartar'.  Others I was not so
familiar with, 'Balsam of Tolu', 'Salix Tincture', 'Nitre', but had seen
them amongst my cousin's many different potions and remedies.

     "We will wait on giving him a good draught of water before pouring
anything else down his throat," he said.  "We will make two remedies for
today."  He turned to Collett.  "You, my friend, should be in charge of
administering them when I am not here.  I am sure Master Browning will
assist."  He looked at me.  "You are in a room nearby?"

     I said I was next door and he nodded.  I watched with interest as he
took up his measuring jars and stirred together a first mixture of some
Ipecacuanha with Liquorice and a drop or two of Laudanum.  "I would add
some honey but I have none," he said.  I smiled.  I knew a source.

     "Please, sir, I can obtain some in a moment."  I went along to Robin's
room and knocked.  Maitland was there and I asked if he would be willing to
allow Dr Dimbleby some of his store of honey to provide ease for Bayes'
throat.  I added I had seen he had a good supply of Oil of Cloves which
would ease his toothache.  I was being cautious as I knew I only had a
small amount of that tincture.

     He followed me back to the other room bearing an earthernware jar
which he gave to Dr Dimbleby.  "May I take a little to keep to mix in
later?" he asked and Maitland assented.  Maitland waited as the first
potion was completed with the addition of two good spoonfuls of the honey.
Dr Dimbleby poured some of the honey into an empty glass jar and then the
mixture he had made into another.  He had just finished when Fraser came
hurrying back with two pint bottles of water.

     "I got this from the kitchen," he explained. "The water is still warm
but has been boiling ready for the potatoes for our luncheon.  The boys
will bring more later.  They will bring linen and a saucepan as well.  I
will go down and see they do not tarry. "

     "That is good," Dr Dimbleby said taking one of the bottles and handing
the other to Collett. "Here, hold him up and give him two full beakers of
the water."  Between them Collett and Maitland did as they were bid.  Poor
Bayes did look quite flushed.  "Now, two good spoonfuls of the mixture, my
boy.  Swallow it slowly and try to keep it in your throat as long as
possible."  Bayes nodded and after all had been taken from the spoon he
smiled.  "I feel eased already," he said but then coughed.

     Dr Dimbleby held up a finger.  "Do not talk for that will set you
coughing."  He held up the bottle.  "He is to have a spoonful of this in an
hour and then another after you others have had your luncheon."  He patted
Bayes' arm.  "No food for you, my boy, until that throat is less sore.  A
bowl of soup later will suffice."  He turned to his array of jars on the
desk.  "We shall need something for this evening and to help him sleep."
He smiled at Collett.  "It will also help you sleep as I hope his coughing
will be eased."

     I noted this time he added more drops of Laudanum to the honeyed
mixture which I knew would make Bayes drowsy.  He also add a little of the
Balsam of Tolu and I wondered what was the reason for that.  I would not be
questioning yet but it was something to ponder.

     He finished and shook the bottle and held it to the light from the
window.  He addressed Collett again.  "You must make sure this is shaken
and he is to have two spoonfuls of this when it is bedtime.  I will return
in the morning to see him recovered, I hope."

     He was looking at Maitland who was screwing his face and grimacing.
"You have the toothache I would say.  Is that not so?"

     Maitland nodded.  "Sir, it gets worse.  I though Master Browning had
cured it last night but I was foolhardy and bit too hard on a crust this
morning."

     Dr Dimbleby turned to me and smiled.  "And so, young Dr Browning, what
did you prescribe?"

     I said I had applied a little poppy juice to the tooth and the gum and
had advised because of the jagged and broken nature of the tooth he should
have it drawn.  I added that if I had known the ache had returned I would
have applied some of my Oil of Cloves to see if that eased the pain.

     Dr Dimbleby beckoned Maitland to stand close and asked him to open his
mouth.  The rough edge of the tooth was quite visible.  He nodded.  "You
were treated and advised well and that young ruffian has deprived me of my
fee. He can treat you further today but when I come to see this lad
tomorrow you can be taken to Ashbourne in my coach where you will find
there is a first-rate young man who will remove that in a trice."  He saw
the look of almost horror I had witnessed when I had suggested the tooth
should be drawn.  "I will dose you after so there will be no pain.  In
fact, I may dose you before as well at no extra cost."  He laughed.  "Teeth
are horrible creatures and they catch us unawares many times.  Look, even I
have had to lose three of mine."  After displaying his open mouth he took a
fob watch from his waistcoat.  "I must be off.  I have a less than urgent
call to treat at least three fellows from Mr Pratt's House who I suspect
were rather too free with their intake of tainted liquor last night.  I
then have to call on two others in Carstairs' who are also racked with
coughing.  I will hurry back and supervise the hot fomentations for this
lad's throat."  He tapped his watch. "I must not be late as I am lunching
with my mother and father and I will report to him that all should be well
here."

     I stepped forward and held his case open as he placed the containers
carefully into it.  He smiled at me as he strapped it shut.  "Two drops of
Oil of Cloves now for this young gentleman from your compendium and I will
be here also in the morning by eight o'clock to see this boy."  He turned
to Maitland.  "My man will drive you to Ashbourne then and you will have a
potion to take with you.  He will bring you back as well so do not fear you
will have to walk!"

     With that he took up his hat, gloves, cloak and case and hurried off.
I looked at Aubrey Bayes who was now lying with eyes closed.  My opinion of
Collett had risen.  Both he and Fraser had shown a caring attitude to their
fag which showed an underlying kindness of heart.  Maitland had to be
treated now so I said he should follow me to the room next door where my
store of remedies was in my chest.  Two drops of the oil were soon
administered with a grinning Theo looking on, but George was absent.
Maitland said he was most indebted to me and would think of some good way
of repaying me.  He then related to Theo how Aubrey Bayes had been treated
by Dr Dimbleby and I had been praised indirectly.  I said I had only done
my best for him.  I wondered then how the debts would be paid for Dr
Dimbleby's treatments?  When Maitland left saying he was sure his ache was
better I asked Theo his opinion.

     "I am sure there will be an addition to the account sent to his
father.  I am sure any charges would be there as an extra like the care of
your mounts in the stables or the charge for the coach for pupils
travelling to London or elsewhere at the end of term."  He pondered a
moment.  "I doubt if Dr Dimbleby is as expensive as some of the physicians
I have heard of in Peterborough.  I must not malign Dr Skrimshire, our
master's kin, but he is well-thought of and thus can command a good fee.  I
have heard he will not shift for a member of the gentry for less than five
guineas which they pay willingly and promptly."  He laughed.  "Even if they
do not pay the haberdasher or their wine merchant for at least six months."

     "You mean that if they do not pay he will not attend?"

     "He would send a message he is otherwise engaged and they learn their
lesson the first time that happens and the rest of the motley crew know he
is a person not to be trifled with."

     I grinned at him.  "I like that description, 'a motley crew'.  I
should not say but my father has used even stronger language when some
overbearing neighbour has riled him.  Mostly by their incompetence in
dealing with their mounts and their care."

     Theo snorted.  "My father has to deal with all sorts and conditions of
men as you might imagine and there are some who try his patience more than
others.  I can assure you they are not the meanest of men but those who
think their positions in society owe them more than a measure of
attention."

     This was interesting.  I did not know of Theo's father's antecedents.
Was he of the gentry himself or from good yeoman stock?  I knew that the
famous mathematician Isaac Newton came from a village in our own county of
Lincolnshire and that Horatio Nelson was a clergyman's son.  These men had
achieved greatness entirely through their own efforts though had been set
on quite different paths.

     He continued.  "My hope is that I may find a niche for myself in some
pleasing occupation.  My father says it is for me to choose.  I have no
desire for the Church and I am not particularly fitted for the Army nor the
Navy.  My brother is still suggesting I follow him into the Law and I may
do that, but I have time to decide."  He nodded his head.  "You have made a
decision and I praise you for that.  Our friend George is certain on his
path and I can see him in the future commanding some great regiment."

     I laughed.  "With trumpet, fife and drum..."  We both imitated what we
had seen of militiamen marching proudly up and down.  I laughed even more
at Theo strutting up and down by the side of the bed.  It was then the door
opened and George returned.

     "What's all this," he demanded.  He must have seen my happy face.
"The boy looks like the cat that has been at the cream!"  I had to compose
my face or I would have roared with laughter at his statement.  I was the
cat who had had the cream!  My thought was of those moments with my Robin.
I could hardly say that dear George had made such a true statement.
Luckily Theo told of Bayes having to call on Dr Dimbleby's services and was
confined to his bed until the morning at least.  He then asked where he had
been after they had finished his extra construe as it was rather a long
time for a straight piss at the trough.

     "I wondered when you would ask," he said and gave Theo a slight sneer.
"I certainly went to the trough first but then strolled to the stables to
see my Barbary and all those other mounts suffering from neglect not seeing
their owners.  My entry did make them more cheerful I am sure and more so
when I went around with a bucket of carrots."

     "Like the good stablehand he could be," I whispered to Theo but
George's sharp ears caught it.

     "I will ignore the cheekiness but I would willingly spend more time
with those noble and not so noble beasts.  There was a poor woebegone
creature who looked at me with such soulful eyes for his master had more or
less deserted him to make merry on a box of squeaks and groans."

     "That I have done this morning," I said with an uplift of my chin, "I
hope I will repeat it again this afternoon for my enjoyment and you will
have to listen again.  I am sure my Blaze has the keen attention of my
groom who would not neglect his duties for one moment."

     George was shaking his head but grinning.  "Boy, you never cease to
amuse me.  I doubt any other fag would be so bold in making statements as
you do.  I learned early not to answer back when I was your age.  I felt a
belt on my arse once and that was enough to keep my thoughts to myself."

     I was somewhat chastened.  If a son of a Lord could be thrashed
perhaps I should hold my tongue and not comment so freely?  "I apologise,"
I said, "I am being too forward but I meant no offence.  I must admit I
have been allowed too much freedom at home which makes me free with my
tongue."

     "Do not fret, Tom," Theo said, "I have more than enjoyed your
statements and rejoinders.  I only wish I sometimes had your quickness of
reply. We are a happy trio and I am glad you joined us."

     "That is so, Tom, I would be saddened if you did not respond to my
jibes," George said with an even broader grin.  "From what I hear your
friend Master Goodhew has the same characteristics.  Branscombe has only
the most complimentary things to say even after only a couple of days."

     I nodded.  Both Branscombe and Maitland had warmed to Robin
immediately and their patronage of him was assured.

     The morning had passed most quickly for the clock now struck one.
Time for Sunday luncheon.  George was ready and my stomach needed filling,
too.  We gathered hats and cloaks and made our way downstairs.  After his
altercation with Dr Dimbleby, Pullen must have resorted to the bottle
again.  He was asleep and snoring and was in no state to apprehend a thief
or any sort of intruder.

     "That man is so stupid," George said as we stepped out onto the path
to the dining hall.  "He has a good position here but makes a fool of
himself so easily.  Mr Ridley must know but does nothing.  He should be
pensioned off and put in an almshouse in the village.  Except, of course,
Gresham has those in his keeping, or so I have heard."

     "Perhaps that incident with the bull could be used to make a point of
issue," Theo said.  "I would be willing to raise it with my father
especially if I say it is a concern of ours that Pullen should not be
inconvenienced because of ill-health."

     "Theo, you have the kindest of hearts," George said holding onto the
folds of Theo's cloak.  "Do not hurry so."  We paused a moment.  "If it
were my decision Pullen would have been cast out long ago.  He is a poor
wretch now as we can all see.  That would be a just solution and would
spare old Bartleby's reprobates many a cut with that cane of his."

     I dare not say that he had merited that approbation himself until
recently!

     "It would be interesting who we might have to endure instead," Theo
said and began to walk on.  "Another old salt, perhaps, who is used to
wielding a rope's end to liven up the powder monkeys."

     "I do not know where you get those thoughts but there would be one
young monkey for him to practise on," George said giving me that sneer of
his.

     "Branscombe tells me his father's servants are all old sailors.  He
might know of a replacement," I said, ignoring another jibe and thinking it
should be one skilled in piercing cods ready for rings even though the
action might be painful.  It could be a fashion for the school instead of
the tassels for our caps.  One ring for Carstairs' House, two for Prior's,
three for Pratt's and so on with perhaps a full half-dozen for Ridley's for
its importance.  But then how would we know which House a fellow was in?
Then fashion would have to be to display one's cods on full view
constantly.  These lubricious thoughts of an entire school of naked pierced
boys were dispelled as we reached the door and the welcome aroma of
something roasted wafted out, at which George's attention was directed.

     "Mrs Partridge said she had two fine pieces of beef for the spit today
and there will be potatoes roasted in the fat I'm sure," he said rubbing
his belly.  "If young Bayes is not here we must prevent Collett feasting on
his share."

     "An extra piece for you, eh?" Theo said as we divested ourselves of
our outer garments and joined those already ready to sit.  Mr Pretyman's
young charges were already seated for they were usually marched in on time
and were already being served with their portions.

     "I hope those infants haven't been given all the best parts," George
said as we noted the serving-boys ladling out roast potatoes and thick
brown gravy for them.

     "You will have sufficient," Theo said, "Sit down and do not gape with
your mouth open!"

     "I am but noting the redness of the beef.  I am most partial to a good
cut of red beef," he replied, "I am glad we are early as we shall be served
next."

     By this time all the House was tramping in and settling.  Grace must
have been said for the Pups and Whelps as we had our plates filled with no
more ado.  George was sighing happily as Japhet placed a thick slice of the
beef tinged with redness on his plate.  Both Theo and I were treated
accordingly and I spooned three well-browned potatoes beside it.  All that
and the accompanying hot gravy was most satisfying.  A good helping of a
steamed raisin pudding followed and when we were finished Mr Pretyman stood
and announced we should now write our letters.

     The tables were cleared and ink pots, pens and paper appeared though
many had brought their own.  I had my two already completed letters in my
jacket pocket and while the others were settling I went over to Robin along
the row where Branscombe was instructing him in the procedure.  I waited
until he had finished and handed Robin the one I had written to Natty's
mother.  I asked him to complete it and hand it back as I would pay the
postage.  Branscombe did not enquire to whom it was addressed but said not
to write too much on each of his sheets or he would be bankrupt by
half-term.

     I managed to complete the page to my parents, another to Aunt Matty
and Uncle Dodd and a final one to my Aunt and Uncle in London.  Mr Pretyman
was rather overwhelmed by all the letters handed to him as it was the first
Sunday of term and everyone had to inform all and sundry of their safe
arrival.  I wondered about Aubrey Bayes whose mother would be expecting a
missive before the end of the week.

     The usual games and pastimes then occupied everyone as they finished
writing.  I played two games of Noughts and Crosses with Theo.  I was most
gratified when I won the first one.  I did not tell him I followed the
rules told me by Robin, which I found worked.  I did let him win the second
which satisfied both of us.  It was then nearing the time for Robin and I
to go the Chapel to meet Mr Skrimshire so I gathered him and we went up to
Mr Pretyman who was still counting up the postage costs.  I asked
permission for us to go to the Chapel.  He wanted to know why we were to be
so early.  Was it to be members of the Choir?  Robin was ready with the
answer and said we were to play the organ.  Mr Pretyman laughed and said we
were full of surprises and waved us out.

     I retrieved the book of organ pieces I had left with my hat and cloak
in the lobby and we went along the path to the Chapel.  "Do not giggle when
you think of those rods," Robin whispered as we reached the side door which
the Masters used.  I rapped on the door and it was opened immediately by
the lad who had pumped the organ for us.

     "Ah, sirs," he said raising a hand to salute us in greeting, "Mr
Skrimshire is a-waiting.  He has been making many a good tune and is
resting awhile."

     He led us into the vestry where Mr Skrimshire was sitting looking at a
music book.  We bowed our heads in greeting and he told us to leave our
cloaks and caps on hooks where the masters and clergy placed theirs.  I
felt rather important.  He held up the book.

     You have heard of Johann Sebastian Bach?" he asked.  We both nodded.
Aunt Matty had played at least two pieces by him.  "He is a great composer
but this organ is not sufficient to do justice to his magnificence.  We do
not have sufficient pedals to be able to play most of his works."  He held
the book towards us.  I could see the three staves repeated on the page
four times over and these looked full of black notes. "We are not blessed
here in England with many instruments capable of full performance of these
glorious preludes and fugues."  He was smiling.  "Perhaps I may persuade
the governors to have the organ augmented but we must make what we can with
what is before us.  Let us go in and you can find your feet!"

     In no time we had both practised our new skill and, other than one
missed note on my part on one repetition, we both fitted our feet with our
hands in those last bars.  It was decided that we would turn the pages for
each other instead of relying on the member of the choir who usually turned
pages for Mr Skrimshire.  I was ready seated on the bench with stops drawn
well before the five-minute bell was rung.  I looked at Herbert and nodded.
He pumped slowly and carefully and when the mouse showed the windchest was
full I began.  I took time over the opening and found my fingers were
steady as the sound filled the Chapel.  I did not feel apprehensive though
I could hear the entry of all my school-fellows.  I change the stops ready
for the Vivace and I was so pleased with the sound especially when the Echo
passages contrasted with the Great organ.  As I approached the final Adagio
I placed my feet ready and saw Robin had his hand poised over the Trumpet
stop knob.  He drew it as I began that last phrase and the sound blazed
out.  I held the last chord and took hands and feet off the keys together.
Mr Ridley was at the lectern and the service began.

     I slid off the bench and Mr Skrimshire took my place to play for the
hymn.  When that was over he pushed in the stops he had used and beckoned
Robin.  He took Mr Skrimshire's place and while Mr Ridley drew the service
to a close chose his stops and I placed the book on the music rest open at
Number Eight.  He played that Vivace with such aplomb and accuracy and I
drew two more stops at the end for the Adagio.  His feet were exact and his
final chord sounded out loud and long.

     Mr Skrimshire was full of praise as Robin then stood by my side after
pushing in the stops he had used.  "My boys, I must look to my laurels!
But here is Mr Ridley."

     As he approached I could see he was shaking his head - in amazement I
hoped.  We were praised again and told we must have extra tuition with Mr
Skrimshire if he was minded.  He was smiling and said he would be most
pleased.  Both Robin and I thanked Herbert for his efforts and I saw Mr
Skrimshire pass him a coin or two.  That was something I must do in the
future.  I looked down the Chapel and saw that it was now empty and a
couple of the servants were extinguishing the candles.

     Feeling very pleased we collected our cloaks and caps and left by the
side door.  Of course our fag-masters were waiting for us.  We were thumped
on our backs until we were winded.  Branscombe especially was most
complimentary and congratulated us both before the four of them escorted us
along to a side path which, though winding, led to the rear of Ridley's
House.  We had hardly gone a few yards in the gathering dark when George
let out a most uncharacteristic expletive.

     "What the hell is that?"  He was pointing into the shrubs lining the
path.

     There was a recumbent figure curled on the ground his cloak lying away
from him and he was sobbing.  It was Jopling!


To be continued:

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