Date: Mon, 3 Mar 2014 20:53:14 +0000
From: Jo Vincent <joad130@gmail.com>
Subject: Tom Browning's Schooldays Ch 73

			 Tom Browning's Schooldays

				    By

				   Joel

			   Chapter SeventyThree



We knew we had tasks to do that day.  My Aunt Fanny had laughed as she said
my mother had sent her lists of requirements to be purchased for two boys
returning to school.  No doubt both would have grown and need a completely
new wardrobe.  This was true enough as even the clothes we had taken to
France seemed now somewhat tight and wanting in the arms and legs even
though we had possessed them over but a short period.  After breakfast we
were sent in a chaise with Paolo as our guide and mentor to the outfitters
and the haberdashers where the lists had been deposited.  The chaise was
soon laden with parcels of shirts, jackets, trousers, boots, shoes,
stockings, football and running togs and unmentionables which were taken up
to our room by a couple of the young grooms when we returned to Charles
Street.  We delivered the annotated lists to Aunt Fanny who sent for a dish
of tea and pastries for us while she checked all had been bought.  She was
satisfied all had been purchased and said boys were not quite as expensive
creatures as girls!  She said dinner that night would be quite formal so if
we could still squeeze into our tail suits all would be well.  She smiled
as she said this and we both smiled back as she added that she was quite
captivated with her present which was in pride of place on a table in the
window space of the parlour.

     We repaired to our room to find a grinning Jabez in our bedroom
packing soap, soft paper and various other packages in our chests ready for
our departure the next day.  I got slapped fingers from a disrespectful
servant when I attempted to open one of the wrapped objects.

     "All will be revealed at Careby." the insolent creature informed me
with a dismissive wave.  "Not all are for you, nor for dear Robin.  There
are others worthy of benevolence and consideration than you.  So, fingers
off!"  The short time in the Comte's company had taught him gestures which
reduced us all to merriment.  He grinned at us.  "I am but obeying your
aunt's instructions.  She said her own conveyance might be rather laden.
Boys do not need such space as ladies she informed me."  He made large
expressive gestures over the chest he was standing by.  "My lady will be
travelling only with Maria but will require a smidgen of space in your
coach my dear sir."  He burst out laughing.  "I warrant there will be
ructions when her carriage is loaded as I have seen two sweating grooms
take chests down already this morning."

     Both Robin and I were grinning at all this as well.  We had seen how
laden my aunt's coach had been on a previous occasion and I had been
bundled in a corner on more than one occasion when travelling with my
mother.  But, only Maria, Aunt Fanny's maid, had been mentioned as
accompanying her.

     "Is Rosamund not journeying to Careby as well?" I enquired as Jabez
took up some of our new parcels and arranged them neatly over the contents
already in the chests.
     "Your cousin has other interests as you are well aware," he said with
an inclination of his head to one side.  "She says she must stay with her
father but..."  No more was said.  We knew Geoffrey Lascelles would be
nearby. He held up a finger.  "I must tell you that your cousin Mr Nicholas
Wright will be travelling from New York to be at the ceremony and intends
to visit Careby for Christmas with his companion architect, Mr Cornelius
Button.  They will also be visiting other notable establishments for Mr
Button has not been to England before."

     "He is American?" Robin asked.

     Jabez nodded.  "I am informed he is of an old and revered family who
left these shores many years ago and wishes to experience the Old Country,
according to Sir Digby."

     That would be most instructive to meet him.  Mr Martin had told us of
the Pilgrim Fathers and the hardships they had endured in the first years
of their arrival on that new continent.  I could see that Robin was
intrigued as well.

     "Will they have slaves accompanying them?" Robin asked.  "Would that
not be illegal for we do not have slavery here?"

     Jabez shrugged his shoulders.  "I have not heard of any such
arrangement.  You have told me of that boy at Careby who is descended from
a slave.  Sir Digby says it is his opinion that many who work in mines and
manufactories are no better than slaves except they might leave.  Then he
says he supposes some employment is better than none."  He shrugged his
shoulders.  "We must wait and see.  That black boy, John, I see in Lady
Cuthbert's employ tells me he came to England as a small boy and is most
happy in his position."  He repeated the wriggling of a forefinger.  "I
tell you, Robin, he has your dear uncle beat in what he possesses!"  He
grinned.  "I must not belittle him as that black lad will outdo me when he
is fully grown I am sure!"

     I grinned back.  "How did you compare?"

     He laughed as he explained those two meanings.  "He was to be on duty
here and had slipped and soiled his britches when alighting from her
Ladyship's carriage.  As we are alike in our body size Mr Purrett said I
should lend him a pair of my britches so what could I do but help the lad
change.  His underclout did little to cover his proud possession and he was
not shy as he confessed it was a constant object of admiration for his
fellow young servants.  He shares a room with three others, one of whom he
said was called a mulatto as his father was white but his mother was black.
He was but fourteen so John said and had some way to go in growth but also
delighted in displaying his fine dark pizzle much to the amusement of the
others."  He laced his fingers together.  "What could I then do but
demonstrate the water closet and we stood side by side with britches open
and drawers down.  I think I bested him by less than an inch and he is near
seventeen."

     Robin was giggling.  "You are fully grown and here is some lad soon to
put you in second place."

     Jabez leaned forward as if to cuff Robin.  "I would rather be second
to such a fine sight than hundredth in line like some other young fellow
who will be glad of another half inch when he is seventeen."

     Robin was not disconcerted.  "I am happy with what I have.  But let us
return to proper discussion."  Was Robin being prim and priggish?  No!  He
laughed and asked more about Nicholas Wright.

     Jabez said all he knew was what he had overheard.  The pair had not
only designed a number of fine houses and buildings around New York but
were purchasing acres of land whenever there was any for sale with the
profits from their endeavours.  There was interest also in ground oil but
Jabez was unclear what this was so I said we should consult Lancelot.

     Our chests were more than filled so Jabez said he would acquire a
wicker hamper or two as well as both his and Mehmet's possessions would be
carried on our coach.

     "I hope you won't lead Mehmet into any evil ways while you are at
Careby," I said.

     He laughed.  "I am beyond boyish pranks but we have had merry times
together haven't we?  Mehmet says he does not believe half my tales but I
give my word I will behave.  No more church towers or Mistress Hine's wash
house lines in full decoration I promise."  Both Robin and I laughed at the
memory of the full complement of the Hine household's undergarments being
displayed flapping for all to see in the open air when previously they
would have been dried discreetly within the confines of the wash house.

     Dinner was indeed formal but also most enjoyable.  My sister Hatty was
there with her husband, the Reverend James, and her sons who had demanded
to see their 'Uncles'.  Luckily we had purchased some small wooden farm
animals in the bookshop in Paris and they were handed over with much
delight from the pair.  My brothers were in attendance and Mrs Torquil
Browning looked most resplendent in a billowing blue gown.  Billowing for
obvious reasons.  The Honourable Geoffrey Lascelles was most affable and he
and Rosamund kept smiling at each other.  He said 'young George' as he
called him was desirous of joining the regiment when he left school next
year and needed a good recommendation.  Robin was not daunted when this was
said to us and replied immediately that he sat well but would profit from a
better saddle for his present mount, Barbary.  Geoffrey laughed and said
that could be remedied if he would take charge of the arrangements with the
saddler in Ashbourne village.  He would see that a promissory note was
delivered in the morning before we left.  Other officers, including Captain
Bemrose and Marmaduke Hastings were present and kept the old naval captain
from next door entertained.  The Duchess was ushered in with Mehmet guiding
her on his arm and holding her silver ear trumpet ready for her to place
round her neck on its ribbon.  Lastly, my Uncle Billy and Lady Cornwallis
arrived with a young lad our age in tow.  He was her nephew, Francis, and
had been left on her hands while his parents travelled to Canada where his
father was to be a Governor of a province for Her Majesty.  He soon joined
in conversation with us and we found he was at Harrow School.  He was most
jealous he said when we told him we had just returned from France.  Though
also a Honourable himself he was no snob and we were soon exchanging
stories of our schools and then telling him some snippets of our journey.

     As usual the food could not be faulted and we made Francis both squirm
and laugh at our description of the tureen of snails as we sat either side
of him.  He was a country lad like us, as his father had an estate in
Norfolk, and said his strangest meal was to eat squirrel baked in clay
which the sons of one of the farming tenants had prepared.  I knew that
squirrels and other vermin were mentioned as being in the pot of some of
our village poor but being baked in clay sounded intriguing.  Signor
Bartoli's meats were more refined that evening!

     Our journey had to be recounted once again and there was great
approbation when small glasses of the monks' liqueur were circulated.
Francis rather gulped his and had to be patted on the back as it quite took
his breath away.  Lancelot was toasted for having donated that fine brew
and Uncle Digby said it was wasted on old dons at High Table.  Captain
Bemrose said it certainly wouldn't be wasted in the Mess and it was the
finest he had ever tasted.  Lancelot would make his fortune with his
air-purifier and supplies of that liqueur I was sure!

     The merry party broke up near midnight and both I and Robin were bade
goodnight with handshakes from the men and a kiss from the ladies.  Francis
asked if we might meet again sometime as his parents would be away some
three years which would take him up to the end of his schooldays and entry
to University.  He was destined for Cambridge and thought himself to be a
fair scholar.  Lancelot overheard him say this and recommended he take
matriculation for St Mark's as we would be there and so would be the St
Mark's Fire!  I said we would no doubt visit London where he lived with his
Aunt Mary during his school holidays.  He did say he was rather in awe of
my Uncle Billy who had promised to have a trooper supervise his riding and
I said I would ask my mother if he might visit Careby as well.

     Robin was very happy as we made our way to our bedroom.  Both Torquil
and Elizabeth had been most warm towards him.  He knew he was welcome
within the family and Elizabeth's kiss had been another seal of acceptance.
Torquil was quite open with him and said again it saddened him if Robin
thought he had been neglected but he knew of the debt which he owed to the
kind heart and care of Steven Goodhew who had taken on the role of father
to a son not his.  Our own love for each other flowed in abundance that
night and two content and fortunate boys slept sound.

     We would be departing by ten in the morning so we were told we need
not rise too early.  However, there was much scurrying in the corridors so
we thought it wise to vacate the bed though no valet was here to help us.
Hot water had been left while we slept and was still warm enough for a
quick wash of all our needful parts.  There were parts which would not lie
still until attended to side by side in the jakes.  Neither of us could
help it and missed the pan so there were giggles as the first sheets of
soft paper were used to mop up errant juices.  Further sheets, of course,
were employed in the more usual way as we eased ourselves.  I had been
first as Robin remembered he had placed the parcel containing the 'Fables
of Aesop' for his brother on the shelf in the tall chest and needed to put
it into his chest which was already stacked high.

     I had just finished washing and was drying my front when there was a
quiet rap on the door.  I knew who it might be and called out 'Enter!'.  It
was the two youngsters, Antonio and Carlo, carrying even more small
packages.

     They eyed two older, naked boys and young Carlo pursed his lips.  We
had been judged, no doubt, against their brothers, cousins, probably Mehmet
and Karem and even Jabez.  Antonio looked at his brother, then bowed his
head.  "Sirs, our grandfather has asked if these might be taken for Mr
Jabez and Mr Mehmet.  He knows their birthdays will be soon."  He smiled at
me.  "There is a parcel also each for you and Master Robin and he sends his
greetings."

     I said we would be most pleased to take them and to thank him most
heartily.  As Robin took the parcels from them I retrieved a sixpence each
for them which made them smile more.  I bent down and almost kissed both on
their foreheads but forbore as they might wonder at such an action.  I did
say "Be good and make sure you pay attention at school and learn."  I knew
that Aunt Fanny paid for their attendance at the National School and
maintained that servants should be able to read and write well.

     "Please sirs," Antonio said as he slipped the coin into a pocket, "We
have been instructed to help you dress."  He sniffed.  "Will Mr Jabez and
Mr Mehmet return?"  He looked quite woebegone over their departure.

     I assured him they would and asked why he wanted to know.

     "Please sir, we would all be most sad if they did not," was his
heartfelt reply.

     Both had been trained well.  With little ado they laid out
underclothes, stockings, clean undervests, shirts and cravats.  As Robin
and I covered our nakedness, which the pair eyed even more openly, so they
laid out on the dressing-table our combs and hair brushes.  They insisted
they would comb and brush our hair and as I sat in front of the mirror on
the table I noted even more growth by my ears and above my lips.  I would
need a shave before presenting my untidy self to my mother!  I said this to
Robin who matched me in those patches of hairiness.  Antonio was ready with
an answer.

     "Please sir, Paolo shaves both Mr Jabez and Mr Mehmet.  Should I fetch
him?"

     Robin replied to that by saying Paolo was no doubt busy with serving
breakfast but after that and before we left would be most convenient.

     We finished dressing and looked ready for travel.  Although the
weather was hot we had decided not to wear our pantalons until we were on
the road as they were not 'London wear'.  We thanked the youngsters and
Robin added another sixpence each before they scurried off and we descended
to have breakfast.

     Lancelot was already there and was looking at a list.  He explained an
extra box of remedies had been delivered that morning.  Not only that but
he had received confirmation that a demonstration of his device would be
made at the Society of Apothecaries and also, he hoped, at the Royal
Institution.  He smiled and said he would be travelling back to London when
these occurred and so be able to be at the wedding of Rosamund and Geoffrey
Lascelles at the same time.  I felt both pleased for him and downhearted
that Robin and I would not be able to attend any of those events.  He said
he hoped to have a reply soon from either his friend or my sister in
Edinburgh.  He knew the particular address Marie Forsythe was living at,
Rose Street, which was in a most genteel district below the Castle and was
popular with doctors, lawyers and high class merchants for their
residences.  It was near where my sister lived.  He said he had lodged with
his friend's family while both were students at the University.  His
friend's father was an apothecary and had his premises off Grassmarket on
the other side of the town.

     Breakfast over Paolo escorted us back up to our bedroom.  He was
equipped with razors, towels and soap and soon had us neat and tidy about
the jowls.  The shilling passed to him was most gratefully received.  We
were ready now to depart on our journey home to Careby.  The coaches were
ready and seemed quite laden.  We set off first as we had to get to St
Albans in good time to make sure there was proper accommodation at the
Peahen for my Aunt.  The horses were fresh and seemed tireless even when we
made our way up Barnet hill.  Lancelot, as usual, was full of knowledge and
told us of the Battle of Barnet in 1471 when Warwick was slain and Edward
the Fourth was victorious.  Lancelot amused us when he said the battlefield
was most likely where the Barnet Horse Fair was now held!

     We reached St Albans earlier than anticipated so I hired three mounts
to take Robin and Jabez with me to see the land my father had given Robin,
my brothers and me.  Lancelot said he would stroll into the town and Mehmet
could accompany him.  I did not know the exact location of those messuages
which were ours but all the land in that direction looked well-tended and
the stock feeding were in prime condition.  Robin was shaking his head in
disbelief that any of this fine land could be his.  "You will soon know
when the rents are paid," said a canny Jabez.  We did not stop other than
to take quick refreshment in an inn as it might have seemed impertinent for
two young lads to lay claim to several acres each of such good land.  Both
Robin and Jabez were most impressed with the town itself.  There seemed to
be some most imposing residences in the main street and there was a
colonnaded Town Hall which dominated a market place.  We did not venture
down Holywell Hill to view the ruined abbey though we could see its tower
and spire.  I was able to show my knowledge by saying the town was an old
Roman settlement.  I had remembered what my father had said.

     We were just returning our mounts when my Aunt Fanny's coach appeared.
All was bustle then, as everything had to be secure for the night, for I
counted at least seven chests or boxes lashed to the outside of the coach.
I was not allowed to peer inside as my aunt said there was nothing there to
interest young men!  Young men!  Not boys any longer!

     We found Lancelot and Mehmet deep in conversation in the inn's
parlour.  It was very like our journey across France.  Here was a servant
being treated as an equal.  Again, I knew Mehmet was more than a lackey.
He had skills and a presence which was not of one with low status.  I had
not studied his clothes but saw now that they were of high quality.  His
father did not stint on supplying his son with good tailoring.  Jabez had
also followed us and was welcomed by Lancelot who indicated he should be
seated beside him.  I found that Lancelot had been questioning Mehmet on
the various muscles, ligaments and tendons which he manipulated in his
massages.  He explained that he had to study each person's structure and
make instant decisions most often how he might relieve pressures, taut
muscles, sprains, strains and even twisted limbs.  I think we were all
impressed with his knowledge and the clear way in which he revealed what he
knew.  Lancelot was especially nodding as Mehmet described how he had
restored movement to an old gentleman's gnarled fingers holding Lancelot's
hand and indicating that the middle fingers were joined together by
underlying ligaments.

     "These I had to loosen but I persevered and he now has full movement
where before he could hardly hold an empty beaker," he said quietly without
pride.

     "I must experience this," said Lancelot as he followed with the first
finger of his other hand the ligaments described.  "I have a number of
patients whose hands would benefit from such treatment.  Mehmet, you must
accompany me on my rounds and give advice."

     Mehmet smiled.  "Sir, that I will willingly do and I would hope to
learn further from you."

     I studied that fine young man and knew that he and Jabez were a good
match.  I could see from the looks they now exchanged how there was a great
fondness for each other.  I could but hope that their friendship would be
allowed to flourish.  I was certain my aunt had recognised their inherent
qualities and that was why she had suggested they both accompanied her to
Careby.  My Uncle Digby had made it evident in his trust of Jabez and I was
sure he would rise to greater heights in whatever tasks he would be set in
the future.  I only hoped I might succeed in my own desires.

     Our conversation continued until we were disturbed by a waiting-man
who said that our dinner would be served in the private dining-room.
Lancelot ushered us all through, including Jabez and Mehmet and we found my
aunt already there with her maid.  Maria would not stay but excused herself
and said she would take her meal in her room as she had some needlework she
must complete.  I wondered if she might think Jabez and Mehmet were acting
above themselves but she took both of them by the hand and said she would
see them in the morning ready for them to escort my aunt to her coach.
From her demeanour I knew this elderly lady was fond of the pair as well.

     As Aunt Fanny was the only lady present we had to, perhaps, eat more
slowly but the food was of the highest quality.  A fine capon, sliced red
beef and a smoked ham were given short shrift by all and there was good ale
for the men and wine for Aunt Fanny.  Lancelot saw our aunt to her room.
He returned and, to our amusement, he and Jabez had a churchwarden of
aromatic tobacco each.  Mehmet shook his head and said he had tried smoking
but he preferred to keep his chest clear as he knew many of the visitors to
the baths suffered from poor breathing through their love of tobacco.

     Lancelot asked how he made that judgement.  "There is a clear
difference, sir, between those who do not smoke and those who have a pipe
or cigar in their mouth most often," he averred.  "My father has observed
this as well and says he has avoided the habit though the great majority of
his friends do smoke and there is a prevalence of coughing and wheezing
among them."

     "That is a most useful observation," Lancelot said.  "I had not come
to that final conclusion as most of my patients in the village and around
only smoke when they have a penny or two for tobacco." He laughed.  "Old
skinflint Charters tries to grow his own but his wife burned his last crop
in the range as she said the stink was too much for even her to bear.
Remember she was a tanner's daughter so must be used to evil smells!"

     "But this tobacco is most sweet smelling," Jabez said as he let a
stream of pale smoke from his open lips.

     Lancelot nodded.  "This is from that old departed colony of ours."  He
laughed.  "I must write and ask dear Nicholas to pack a quantity in his
belongings when he visits."

     Our talk then turned to the forthcoming weddings and I expressed my
disappointment we would not be able to attend any as both Robin and I would
be at Ashbourne.  Lancelot said he would make sure we would be supplied
with enough coinage to make our own celebrations.  I said I wondered if
George Lascelles and Cedric Branscombe would be allowed to leave school to
be present on their occasions.  Lancelot said they had closer relatives
involved so it may be so.  "Let us have a glass of port to celebrate in
advance and hope for a safe journey tomorrow," he proposed and this was
carried out with no abstentions!

     Our beds called and the two boys on the previous visit preceded Robin
and me up the stairs.  I could but ask.  "Is the old ranter still
misbehaving himself?"  They giggled and said their daily disposing of the
basins had made him finally desist and he had turned his attention to the
White Hart further down Holywell Hill but as the footpath there was much
heaped with horseshit his pissing added little.

     We slept well and were ready for breakfast and the next stage of the
journey.  That night in Bedford we dined and slept well again and reached
our destination in the afternoon of the next day.  There was the usual
bustle on our arrival. We were first for we had left my Aunt Fanny's coach
some three miles behind us as she wished to stop and visit a friend she had
not seen for over two years.  Grooms were called to unload our coach and I
watched carefully as my chest was unstrapped from the roof and then saw the
barrel of wine carefully removed from its place within the coach.  As this
was happening so Jabez was greeted most heartily by the young men who knew
him well.  What was most noticeable was the deference the same young men
showed to Mehmet.  Here was an unknown quantity!  A young man himself but
showing such bearing and also an undeniable bodily strength.  There were
glances between the grooms as they were instructed by Mr Clements himself
to take the pair's belongings up to the Green Room.  This was a bedroom
often occupied by overnight guests who had, perhaps, indulged a little too
freely in the wine my father had over- generously provided.  It was not a
palatial room but comfortable.  So Jabez would not be accommodated in his
parents' house by the gardens.  But then, Timmy had the other bedroom
there.

     Mehmet was staring about him as he said he was not used to the clean
air and the brightness of the country, nor of the massiveness of our fine
house.  Jabez had, of course, spent much time in Careby Hall and had slept
many times in my bed to keep me company.  Now he was a guest as it were and
laughed and said he would nanny Mehmet as he had had to do with me.  I
think Benjy was a little awestruck at such a change in apparent station and
Eamonn was sent to make sure their clothes and possessions were properly
unpacked and put away carefully.

     We knew Benjy was curious about Mehmet but also by Jabez being treated
no longer as a servant.  I said very carefully that both were in my Uncle
Digby's employ but were at a higher level than ordinary servants.  Robin
said that should suffice and Benjy was not to gossip.  Here was someone
else who not long ago was a groom, but now within the family as an equal.
Poor Benjy was a little bemused!

     He soon was more relaxed and talkative.  Rogers, the ex-Constable was
gone.  He and his family had moved to his father's house in Erasmus Dodd's
parish.  That is, Erasmus's old parish as there was a new vicar appointed,
for Erasmus would be taking up his Fellowship at St Mark's within weeks and
was now at the Rectory with his parents.  There was some other excitement
as Mr Enoch Barker the blacksmith was to be the next Constable though now
well into middle age. The proposal was that Isaac Barker would take over
from him once he attained full age.  He and his brother, Jacob, would move
into the Constable's house and be responsible for any no-gooders kept in
the cells there.  They would still work for their father but receive a
small wage also from the Parish rate.  Both Robin and I laughed at this
news.  Any miscreants would soon learn to behave if confronted by that
sturdy pair!  The next news was quite startling.  The swearing rogue who
had been sent on his way after his stint in the lockup had been found dead
in a ditch not twenty miles away.  It was assumed he had lain there
undiscovered for some days until a farmer inspecting his crops had been
drawn by the barking of his dogs to investigate their agitation.  A sum of
money had been collected and sent to the wife who was now with her mother
in Boston with the surviving children.

     We had not been in our room long and had unpacked just one of our
chests when we heard the commotion as my Aunt Fanny's coach arrived.  We
thought it best to keep out of the way and go down to the parlour once a
decent interval had elapsed.  I heard our unreliable grandfather clock
strike four so judged that was a reasonable hour to beg for food and drink.
Robin said my gluttony should be sated as I had just eaten two pieces of
some chocolate fudge which had, fortuitously, come unwrapped as I took it
from its resting-place among the other good things tucked away in the
bottom of the chest.  "And what might you be chewing," I said as I made a
long nose at him and gave him a companionable slap to his arse as I made my
way to the door.

     My Aunt Fanny was already in the parlour with my mother.  Of course
Robin and I were given great hugs and kisses by my mother and were silenced
with a raised finger before we could launch into any tale of our
adventures.  "Your cousin Lancelot was kind enough to announce his arrival
to me and said you both were well.  I suppose a mother and grandmother can
wait to be greeted!"  I knew she was not angry because both she and Aunt
Fanny burst into laughter at our rather downcast looks.  I did not tell her
about the portrait of Agnes Le Ferreur.  That would be presented this
evening at dinner!

     She indicated we should be seated and there was a trolley with cups
and plates and a selection of good things.  "You had better eat and that
will keep you quiet while I hear news of London and all that is happening
there."  I knew better than to reply to that and Robin and I busied
ourselves making sure Mrs Gray would be kept busy baking more!

     As talk was of shops, clothes, theatres, fashions new and fashions
out-dated we asked to be excused as soon as our plates and cups had been
emptied to our satisfaction.  Both my mother and Aunt Fanny smiled and our
tales would be told when we were alone with my mother.  Robin, however, was
rather concerned that he had not been to see the Goodhew family.  Dinner
would not be until eight o'clock as we had heard my father was in Stamford
and would not return until then so we rushed to the Hall stables where
Bobby was tending at least six mounts including Blaze and Silver.  He
wanted to know about our travels but we said he would hear all if he rode
out with us on the morrow as we wished to show our guest Mehmet some of our
countryside.  "Is he that big fellow?" Bobby asked, "Your father said I
should get a good strong horse ready for him to ride."  That explained the
number in the stable.  Another would be for Jabez.  We confirmed that
indeed Mehmet was big and he would need a sturdy mount.  Blaze and Silver
were glad to see us we were sure.  They whinnied as we stroked their
muzzles and Bobby saddled them.  We cantered along the Hall drive and then,
more sedately, rode to the Goodhew residence.

     News always travels fast.  Our arrival had been noted and the family
were waiting for us.  We had to distribute our gifts first.  Philip was
open-mouthed at the fine present of the coloured pencils.  He was almost
ready to depart for London as his years of study would begin in September.
James peered at his two books in French and gave us a searching look.
Robin hugged his half-brother and said there were illustrations in the
Fables which should help his understanding.  I knew my mother would
continue with her teaching as she had with Robin and me.  Jenny wept openly
when she unwrapped one of the porcelain vases.  It was a present from both
of us Robin said.  I dared not say it was a gift from Mr Johnson as he had
refused to accept any payment for the four he had given us.  I included
Robin in that as he had been a companion for 'the ruffians' as well!  We
had neckerchiefs and handkerchiefs for Steven and also for Liam.  We told a
little of our story without causing his mother concern over the bandits.
Steven had known of Lancelot's mission and we were able to confirm that a
suitable resting place had been found.  We had to hurry away so as not to
be late back at the Hall but Philip's last words as we bade all good night
was that the cellar in the Hall had been cleared of much lumber and Uncle
Dodd was ready to explore the hidden rooms.

     Benjy had come to our room while we were making sure we were clean and
tidy and said the table for dinner that night was set for two more than the
family.  Both Jabez and Mehmet had places so we went along to the Green
Room to tell them this and allay any fears they might have of being seated
where before they would have stood behind the chairs.  I think they were
rather ill at ease at first but did smile when I said they had both charmed
a Duchess and we were of much lower station than she.  However there was no
need of worry as the four of us, preceded by Benjy carrying the two parcels
I had given him though I carried another, entered the Library.  Here were
all the Dodds together with my mother and Aunt Fanny and all greeted us
warmly with smiles.  I had no chance to greet my mother other than to stand
by her for at that moment Mr Clements came to the door with my father who
bustled in.  We four boys were standing and were joined by Lancelot and
Erasmus but before we could even bow a greeting my father rushed to his
seated sister and knelt and kissed her hand.  "Fancy my dear," he said
using the pet name I had heard him use before, "A welcome breeze has
entered this house on your arrival!"

     My Aunt Fanny gave him a playful tap on the shoulder with the fan she
was holding.  "Sam, you amaze me as usual," she said and leaned forward as
he bent down and received a kiss on his cheek.  "You have always had a way
with words.  Father said you would have been better as a huckster on the
market-place than a mere country farmer."

     "A country farmer!" he said with mock dismay, "A country gentleman,
perhaps."

     My mother was laughing.  "Not a genteel man, though!"

     "Louisa, I am hurt."  He made a pout and looked around as the rest of
us were trying not to laugh or were looking bewildered at the exchange.  He
jumped up having seen Mehmet and went straight to him after a cursory
acknowledgment of the rest of us as we stood and bowed our greeting.

     "Ah, Mr Sevinc, I am glad you are with us.  I have a great ache where
my purse rests as one son tells me he requires a new uniform and another
son costs me dear with his fees for school and all that clothing he
requires now he grows like a bean up a pole.  I need your close attention
as it is most painful to feel one's purse emptying so fast that I am weak
with the worry of it!"

     Poor Mehmet just stared at my father who was enjoying belittling
either Torquil or Terence and me.  I saw that Jabez standing next to him
gripped his hand in companionship.  I could not think of some riposte but
Lancelot leapt to our defence.

     "Uncle Sam, I would say that Mehmet could help cure your bodily pains
as he has with Uncle Digby but I am sure those other pains are but figments
of your imagination and I could recommend a host of quacks whose remedies
would remove more of your money which would cause you even more distress."

     Uncle Dodd was laughing.  "Sam, you old rogue, do not embarrass your
guest."

     Mehmet had collected himself after the onslaught and those statements.
He bowed his head again.  "Sir, I am most honoured to be received within
your house and I will recommend a suitable regime to help relieve some of
your bodily hurts but I am unable to suggest ways of reducing your other
worries.  My father has told me that money comes and money goes and
happiness follows that pattern but not always at the same time."

     Erasmus was amused at this.  "I would agree with your father most
whole-heartedly".  He turned to my father.  "Uncle Sam, is that not a
philosophy you could adopt with no hurt to your purse as it is freely
given.  Whatever other demands are made on it I am sure should not diminish
your affection for any of your sons and happiness in seeing their progress
in this world."

     My father was silent for a moment.  I stepped forward.  "Father may I
present you with a token of your son's and grandson's great affection for
you.  It has been carried without being broached from Riom where Mama's
great-uncle kindly gave it to us filled with the finest wine from his own
vineyards."  I pointed to the barrel which had been placed by the doorway.
I had been perplexed over some suitable gift for my father and thought this
would be perfect.  I had asked the grooms to place it by the Library door
when the coach had been unloaded.

     My father looked at me questioningly.  "All the way from Riom?  Is
that some foreign place where grandmothers are grown?"  Father was in a
playful mood.  Whatever his errand in Stamford must have been pleasant.

     My mother was laughing.  "Husband dear, leave the boy alone, you know
full well all that history.  I saw the barrel there and wondered.  It will
be of the highest quality for my mother has always spoken highly of her
family's vineyards and their products."

     My father shrugged his shoulders.  "If you say so, my dear."  He
turned to me.  "Thank you, son, for such a gift for I am sure you and your
companions must have eyed it wondering if it might be drained and the empty
barrel be presented as a convenient footstool."  He turned to Jabez.
"Jabez, tell me is that not so?"
     Jabez was not flummoxed.  "Sir, that barrel has been carefully
carried.  We have not wanted for refreshment of any kind, especially of
good wines and ale.  Master Tom and Master Robin have been minstrels - as
in days of old - and their playing has reaped their reward and ours, too!"
He looked at Lancelot who was grinning at the exchange.  "Dr Lancelot has
practised his craft also to the advantage of us all."  Jabez bowed his head
and also tried not to grin.  "Monsieur le Comte de Roanne was kindness
itself and your son and grandson acquitted themselves handsomely in his
orchestra which was appreciated by some of the highest quality in Paris."
This riposte did silence my father who had no knowledge of that part of our
adventures.

     Uncle Dodd was laughing openly.  "Jabez, you have whetted our
appetites for more.  I propose that the barrel is broached and Mr Browning
should share his gift with thirsty mortals at dinner."  I could see Mr
Clements at the doorway shaking his head slightly.  Lancelot must have
noted his agitation.

     "Father, it would be better to let the wine rest after its travels.  I
can vouch that the bottles we had at dinner with Mr Johnson were excellent
but I would allow a day or so for the larger quantity to settle."  He
looked at my father.  "Uncle Sam, that is my opinion."

     My father was not quietened for long.  "So, nephew, I have to delay my
tasting of whatever that barrel might contain?"

     "Uncle Sam, I have a present for all which is resting in the
diningroom.  That should be sufficient for tonight."  As I was standing by
his side he nudged me.  "It is a liqueur like no other."  Oh!  St Mark's
was to be deprived of yet another flagon of its Fire!  My father realised
he was beaten so waved his hands and all were then seated except me.

     I picked up the parcel I had brought down and went to my mother.
"Mama, as well as the present for father I was given this to pass to you."
I undid the paper covering the small portrait of Agnes le Ferreur.  My
mother stared at it in amazement.

     "Is that my great-grandmama?" she breathed.  There were tears in her
eyes.

     My aunt sitting next to her looked at it as she held it forward.  The
sconce on the table behind them illuminated it more than the light from the
window.  "It is the image of you, my dear.  I can see the likeness," she
said quietly.  "Show the others."  My mother handed it to her and she
passed it to Uncle Dodd who nodded as he looked at it.  Erasmus was next
and my father waited patiently until it was given to him.

     "My dear," he said, "That likeness is there.  Does your mother have a
copy?"  My mother shook her head.  "It would be good if she could see it."

     My mother smiled.  "It must go to her."  Lancelot was nodding.  If he
was going to Scotland he would be able to visit Chester on his way.

     I was not finished.  I signalled to Benjy who was also standing by the
door.  He came forward with the two parcels he had carried down.  I
presented one to my mother and the other to Aunt Matty Dodd.  "These are
from all those travellers to foreign parts," I said in imitation of my
father.  The two decorated porcelain vases were unwrapped and there were
cries of approbation as they were examined and held up for general
approval.

     Robin stood and went to where my father was seated.  "Grandfather,
please accept this as a token also from foreign parts."  I had not realised
but he had brought down the package in which the embroidered hat was
wrapped.  There was laughter and clapping as my father removed the paper
and the elegant round hat was displayed.  He placed it on his head.
"Worthy of any Gentilhomme d'Angleterre," Robin said with a quite perfect
accent.

     My father smiled and put his arms out and hugged his grandson.  "As
good as a barrel of wine," he said as Robin was held tight.

     Mr Clements bowed toward my father who nodded to him.  It was a signal
for our footmen to come in bearing trays of glasses of sherry and plates of
nuts and small pastries.  There was a moment's quietness as we sipped and
sampled, then my mother asked Lancelot to tell of our journey.  This
continued throughout dinner with Robin, Jabez and I taking up parts of the
story and it more or less finished as we toasted our companionship and safe
return with a glass of St Mark's Fire.  My father had been silent during
all this time.

     "That is a story to be recorded I am sure but to a little more news.
I do not wish to dampen all your happiness but my business in Stamford
today concerned my future in this County.  It has been suggested I stand as
a Member for Stamford at the forthcoming election."  There were gasps
around the table as we had remained there.  He smiled.  "However, I have
refused the offer and my school friend, now Mayor of Stamford, will stand
instead."  He wagged a finger at us.  "I saw the looks on your faces just
now.  Were they dismay at my first announcement and relief when I said I
would not be spending time in London?"

     Uncle Dodd was clearly most amused.  "You are behind times, Sam.  I
was approached some two months ago and asked if you should be asked.  I
said you would serve most faithfully if you agreed and were elected.  I was
sure though that you would refuse though I had hopes you might rise to be
Chancellor of the Exchequer and propose a special stipend for impoverished
clergymen.  I did not add that though I have news of my own."

     Erasmus was laughing now.  "Father, let me announce that."  He stood
and raised his glass.  "To the Reverend Dr Alfred Dodd, our Archdeacon to
be!"

     Glasses were refilled and raised.  I wasn't sure of the role and
duties of an Archdeacon but remembered that the previous one had been
judged a strange fellow.  No doubt Uncle Dodd would fill that position with
his usual straightforwardness.  He stood now and bowed.

     "Thank you one and all," he said with his usual smile.  He looked at
my father in his place at the top of the table.  "Sam, I too will have a
new hat.  I am informed by the bishop's secretary I must begin to appear in
it once I have received his Lordship's blessing and ride to inspect all the
parishes under my jurisdiction."

     Erasmus laughed.  "It is most handsome.  A tall hat with strings
attached.  I remember trying on the old Archdeacon's hat when a boy.  It
fell down below my ears and I would not aspire to such eminence."
     His father held up his glass.  "Another toast.  To the new Fellow of
St Mark's!"

     It was Erasmus's turn to bow his head.

     It was now late and all looked tired.  Jabez and Mehmet had acquitted
themselves well and I saw my father take them both by the arm as he bade
them goodnight.  He whispered something to Jabez which made him nod and
smile.  I would not ask.  It was a private thing.  They were smiling as
Benjy led the four of us up the stairs.  We also bade them goodnight with
hugs of friendship.  Mehmet whispered to me.  "I am most privileged to be
here."  I whispered back.  "We are privileged to have you as a friend.  Be
a good companion to Jabez."  His hug told me all.

     Robin and I were weary but that did not prevent us showing our love
for each other as we settled in bed.  We wondered if Jabez and Mehmet were
enjoying the closeness we felt for each other.  I asked Robin if he had
noted that gesture of Jabez's in holding Mehmet's hand to give him
confidence.  He had and said there was no doubt of the great fondness
between them.  Our fondness for each other took over then and twice before
we fell asleep our love passed between us.

     The following days were busy for each of us.  Jabez had taken Mehmet
to meet his father and mother on the morning after the arrival.  His mother
was overjoyed at seeing her younger son once more.  His father was pleased
he had found good employment but seemed a little hesitant over his rise in
station.  Jabez said his father had told him he must not allow that to turn
his head.  He should always remember he was a representative of an old and
respected family.  Jabez was adamant he would never forget his roots.  Of
course, young Timmy was introduced and showed the pair his work in the
garden.  There was no doubt both Jabez and Mehmet were taken by the
goodness of that young lad.  Timmy had a companion worker.  The young lad,
Paul, the one who had been treated for his injured hand by Lancelot, was
busy making sure the ripening apricots were well-watered.  He looked most
happy and said he was to be employed now in the gardens.

     We found Mehmet to be a most delightful companion as he and Jabez
accompanied us on other visits and rides.  That afternoon we visited the
forge to congratulate Mr Barker and Isaac on their new positions.  Mehmet
was most amused at being offered a situation as blacksmith in place of
Isaac Barker when he became Constable.  Isaac almost chased Robin from the
forge when he suggested Mehmet should be the Constable instead.  Mehmet
said that being a blacksmith might be another trade for him.  He then
astounded us as he stood by the anvil and flexing his legs lifted it easily
to be level with his chest.  When he settled it down again Isaac was full
of admiration and praise and confessed it took both himself and his brother
to lift that very heavy object.  Jacob whispered he would wish to see
Mehmet naked to judge his muscles.

     The fulfilment of this desire was to happen that particular day.
Later that afternoon we made our way down to the pool by the river as it
was particularly hot.  Timmy had been fetched from the gardens to accompany
us and we all stripped naked and dashed into the water.  As we frolicked
who should appear but Isaac and Jacob riding and leading two mounts to be
taken to the Varley Arms.  Two other naked youths joined in the splashing
and diving.  Truly Mehmet did outdo both Isaac and Jacob in the size of his
muscles.  I wondered though at the sight of his pizzle.  I saw his naked
acorn but his length was no more than either Robin or me and he was some
four years older.  I did note that when lying in the sun later, after Isaac
and Jacob had left us to deliver their charges, Jabez was holding Mehmet's
hand and there was a definite thickening and lengthening before he turned
over to hide himself.  Timmy had been watching, too, and his peg also began
that motion.  This was a signal for Robin and me to attack and tickle him
which we knew had even more effect as he squirmed and twisted under fingers
on his ribs.  Jabez was no slouch and was soon making Mehmet wriggle and
writhe under his hands as well.  There must have been a nod or two in our
direction as Robin and I were then on our backs struggling against the
weight of Jabez and Mehmet across our legs and the probing fingers of Timmy
who was taking his revenge.  Lastly Jabez was set upon and his mighty
weapon was at full stretch as four other lads made him a quivering wreck of
laughter.  Four lads sat back and each displayed their own erect rods of
differing dimensions.  Though Jabez beat us all young Timmy was next and
from my view Robin, Mehmet and I equalled in our length other than for our
covering skin.  Timmy could not contain himself.  He looked Mehmet straight
in the eye. "Mehmet, you match my statue!"

     Mehmet was puzzled until Robin told of the naked African carving given
to Timmy by old Miss Barnes.  Mehmet looked down at his own circumcised
stem.  "I must examine that," he said.  Our unruly Jabez could not forbear
from suggesting a comparison should be made.  I was glad Robin did not
disclose his calculation of possible length as I was sure Mehmet did not
exceed five and a half inches and might be discomfited.  Though Mehmet saw
the statue that evening and admired the artistry in its making there were
no other comments made, though rude Robin held up six fingers behind his
back.

     Another day we did visit Miss Barnes who we knew had a liking for
Jabez as he had been such a good boy, in her opinion, when he was a
youngster and his mother worked in the house.  She was captivated with
Mehmet and showed him a log of one of her father's voyages which had taken
him along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and mentioned he had visited
the port of Antalya on the Turkish shore.  I hoped she might have presented
him with one of the marble carvings!

     One day at luncheon Lancelot came hurrying in, hungry as ever he said,
bearing two letters.  He had received replies from my sister and his friend
in Edinburgh concerning Marie Forsythe.  There was glad news but also sad
news.  Mr Forsythe, her late husband's father, was a respected lawyer and
Mrs Forsythe was well-known for her involvement in all layers of polite
Society.  James, the three-year-old, was well and thriving and bright and
cheerful according to Peggy, my sister.  He was loved and the grandparents
doted on him.  Lancelot's friend, also a doctor, knew the family well and
wrote that the boy was forward for his age but Marie had a weak chest and
was confined to her room at times.  Alistair Duncannon's diagnosis was that
she most probably had consumption but was being well-attended to by her own
doctor a member of the Faculty of Edinburgh's medical college.  Lancelot
said he had written that morning to the Fontanes in Paris and had been
quite open about Marie's condition.  He said if she was sickening then the
clean air of Scotland would be better than the smoke and stink of Paris.

     Mehmet was also kept busy as my father received a massage at least
three mornings a week.  Both Robin and I were also eager recipients of his
ministrations and lay side by side as he pummelled and pressed, squeezed
and pounded our muscles and was not disconcerted when we turned over
displaying our taut members which received our own kneading when he left
the room.  Mehmet and I accompanied Lancelot on many of his visits to
patients and I learned a deal about how muscles and ligaments were attached
to our skeletons.  Mehmet loosened a number of withered and stiff fingers
and limbs and Lancelot confided that Mehmet had skills which he could only
copy secondhand.

     Robin spent much time with his brothers especially when they were
being taught by Uncle Dodd.  Robin commented that both Philip and James
were good scholars and enjoyed learning.  The two youngsters joined us on
several hot afternoons and bathed in the pool.  Mehmet was a special
favourite as he could pick up both, one under each arm, and dash into the
water where they were dropped and then they harried him as they darted like
minnows grabbing at his arms and legs as he swam away from them.

     Philip made a number of chaste drawings of our naked cavorting but
said he had many images remembered which incurred several slaps to his own
bare backside and injunctions from Robin not to draw anything he could not
show his mother.  He smiled and agreed!

     We knew the cellar had been cleared of much of the lumber and Uncle
Dodd said he had been saving his own exploration until we were all present.
It was dark and musty as we descended the stairs into the cavernous space.
We had a candle each and had to beware of still remaining boxes and old
furniture and marvelled at the pillars and arches holding up the house
above.  Uncle Dodd said this was only one of four cellars two of which he
knew were almost empty. The other was where father kept his wine locked
away!  Philip led the way to where the iron door was.  It had been locked
but a key had been found which fitted the lock and slowly the door was
opened.  The creaks were unearthly and I for one had shivers up my spine.
The door led to a small triangular antechamber containing nothing but a
rough bench and an iron-runged ladder leading up.  Philip had already
ascended this with Uncle Dodd watching and it was safe.  We were told there
were identical rooms on the ground floor and on the floor above but, again,
all there was in each was a rough bench.  Uncle Dodd laughed.  "Nothing of
value.  If there had been anything it was cleared when that door was
locked.  This was a Priest Hole but we do not know if a priest ever used
it."

     We were allowed up two at a time and I wondered what it would have
been like to be a Catholic priest in those troubled times.  I thought of
all those who had been caught and killed and recalled what the twins had
said about the slaughter of the Huguenots in Paris and the wholesale
slaughter during the Terror.  Where was the goodness of God when all these
wicked acts were happening?

     I was quite glad to be out of that cellar and vowed I did not want to
enter it again.  However, Uncle Dodd and the two young Goodhews were down
there again another day as some of the boxes were locked and might contain
things of interest.  Locks were prised open and moth-eaten old clothing or
tattered books and documents were in some with discarded pewter and pots in
others.  However, one did reveal treasures.  This was a sturdy wooden chest
and had two locks.  Inside was a carefully wrapped bundle.  Uncle Dodd said
he held the candles as Philip lifted it out.  When they tore away the
decayed woolen wrapping there were two portraits face to face.  These were
the portraits of my grandfather and grandmother which had been thought
destroyed.  My father was overjoyed when he returned to the house that
afternoon to find them displayed in the Library.  That evening there was a
great celebration with all present, including the Goodhew family, for my
father decreed that champagne was in order.  Uncle Dodd and Philip were
toasted for making that great discovery.  It was uncanny that the family
likeness had been handed down.  My aunts resembled their mother and my
father had the features of his father.  I could also see my brother
Torquil's eyes and my brother Terence's nose and mouth most definitely in
their grandfather's face.  Jabez poked me in the back.  "It won't be long
before some young whipper-snapper will have those fine whiskers, eh?"
There was more merriment as the small portraits of the four brothers and
sisters were set below those of their father and mother and it was decided
that my Uncle Billy would be given his for a wedding present!

     Of course, the barrel of wine was broached and bottled under the
supervision of Mr Clements. It appeared at several of the dinners my
parents presided at when friends and neighbours were entertained.  Squire
Matthews was particularly delighted with its quality and was always ready
with an empty glass.  Twice when he was present after that the wine was not
in evidence!

     Our holidays from school were coming to an end much too quickly.
There was no news of young Freddy accompanying us back to Ashbourne.  We
had ridden out to Moss Hall with Lancelot to see Colonel Neville who said
the lad was happy now at home which confirmed our suspicion the Colonel
knew of the mother and her previous strictures.  She must have changed her
opinion of the boy now she knew of his particular talent.  No doubt we
would hear more once we were back at Ashbourne.  We noted that repairs had
been made to the mill and that a cart was loaded with gravel from the river
bed so the Colonel's finances would be helped with the income from these
enterprises.

     At the end of August Philip Goodhew was taken to London by his father
to begin his years of study at the Royal Schools.  We heard he was happy,
too.  The Harrisons were to be his guardians and from his father's report
young Philip had already made his mark with the presentation to his tutors
of his portfolio of drawings he had prepared over the past year.  His
progress would be followed with great interest.

     My Aunt Fanny and her entourage would be remaining at Careby until the
beginning of October when she would then return to London.  Jabez had been
kept busy in that he had received a letter from Uncle Digby with
instructions to take a package to an address in Grantham.  No one asked him
what he knew about it but I had been inquisitive enough to listen to the
conversation when he asked my father if he knew the address and if he might
borrow a mount.  My father gave him some instructions on the place he had
to visit and also passed him some coins as he would have to stay overnight.
I heard one word of the conversation which interested me - it was
'railway'.  Our own interest in this was also whetted by rides out as far
as the excavations and bridges being built on the route from Grantham
towards us.  We were told once the surveyors had finished from Essendine to
Peterborough we could expect the navigators to start preparing the ground
for the rails and crossings through Careby sometime next year.

     The fateful day came for our own departure and Robin and I set off
accompanied by our faithful Natty Dyer as our groom on that now familiar
journey to Ashbourne.  Rowley Roberts and Peters were our coachmen though
Robin and I rode Silver and Blaze alongside Natty on his Kerry.  Our chests
had been packed and there were presents included for our fagmasters and
friends as well as two succulent hams each to share with our schoolfellows.
The journey passed uneventfully and as we approached Ashbourne so other
coaches and riders hailed us and greetings were passed.  We said farewell
to our coachmen once our belongings had been unloaded.  We entered the door
to Ridley House to find no Pullen.  I noted the room was newly painted and
the air seemed fresher.  There was much laughter coming from the stairway
as we went up.  Wonder of wonders!  There were boys openly pissing into the
shining metal troughs in the small rooms by the stairs on the ground floor
and the first floor.  The Vespasians - as we were told they were now called
- had been crafted and installed while we were away.  I parted from Robin
as we reached our top floor and made our separate ways to our rooms.  The
door to the room I shared with George and Theo was open.  I waited and
looked in as my approach must have been announced for there standing side
by side were my fagmasters arrayed in the short gowns and mortarboards with
their staves of office as Praepostors!

To be continued:


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