Date: Mon, 14 Apr 2014 22:39:22 +0100
From: Jo Vincent <joad130@gmail.com>
Subject: Tom Browning's Schooldays Ch 78
Tom Browning's Schooldays
By
Joel
Chapter SeventyEight
Naturally, such an exchange could only lead to merriment. Before anything
else Torquil then explained he had come directly from the Queen's Palace
where he had been in attendance on the Prince as Albert had to meet the Duc
de Broglie who was in residence. The Queen was worried about her son who
had a chill so her husband had to do her duty. I think we were all
impressed with Torquil's involvement with such high matters of State.
He merely smirked and said all he had to do was stand still and look
handsome. This set us off giggling again. He was handsome. He was my
brother! He turned to George who was smiling broadly. Torquil dipped his
head. "Sir, excuse my clumsiness." Of course, George was a Viscount's son
and outranked all of us in station. Torquil was showing due deference. I
knew George had met Torquil at his brother's wedding to Rosamund.
"Colonel Browning, I am plain George to that young brother of yours
and to your son, so may I be plain George to you?"
Torquil bowed his head and Robin and I giggled once more. I did not
dare make any quip. "As I know Geoffrey is your brother so George you can
be!" my brother said and put out a hand which was shaken vigorously by a
laughing George.
Torquil turned to me. "You, child, can be my batman. Help me divest
myself of this encumbrance!"
Child! Calling me that in front of George and Robin! I had been at
the receiving end of many a jest and trick at the hands of my elder
brothers but always with love and amusement on each of our parts. He must
have seen my hurt look. He put out a hand and laid it on my shoulder. He
shook his head.
"Tom, I did not intend to demean you. I am sorry for you are no
longer a young baby brother to be teased." He did manage to look forlorn.
What could I do but smile at him.
"And you are that big brother who still needs Nanny to help you
undress!" I stepped forward as he started laughing. I could see there
were at least two belts to unclasp to release the scabbard. I got no
further for I got hugged. While this was happening George and Robin in
fact managed to remove the belts and sword. Robin was holding up the
scabbard. Torquil let me go and turned to Robin and with a great laugh
enveloped his son in his arms.
There was a muffled cry from Robin as he almost dropped the scabbard
but George very deftly took it from him. I grinned at George who was
staring in some bewilderment at the tangle of belts attached to the
scabbard.
"I await the day when you are arrayed in such splendour!" I said.
"I should need more than a Nanny I am sure," he averred as Torquil let
go of his son.
"Come along to the Library." Torquil was in charge. "I wish to hear
everything." He took the scabbard and belts from George.
We followed him and were soon ensconced in easy chairs. Between us we
related all we could remember of the past few days. Torquil sat silently
as the tale unfolded. From looking most concerned he did move to a smile
when Robin told him of our meeting with the Prime Minister.
"You have been very brave," was his only comment when we finished. He
sat for a moment as if contemplating what he had just heard. "Terence
would not tell me anything this morning but that you had had an adventure.
I could not ask him more because of my duties." He looked at George. "Be
assured my Uncle Digby will make sure your family name is not besmirched.
He has aided two of my friends in freeing them from certain entanglements
which would have caused great problems for them and their careers." He
shook his head. "Nothing to match what you have told me, however." We
could hear that others were arriving and being escorted to the lower
drawing room. "George, I am told you wish to join the Regiment. Please
accept my invitation to visit the barracks at your convenience." He
smiled. "My Uncle William will be here this evening as well. Have no fear
for he also knows of your desire."
As Torquil stood so did we. I had not had opportunity to ask about
Elizabeth nor the babe, my new and only niece. I hoped he did not take
this to be remiss of me. He led the way out and we followed him to be
greeted by the sight of a phalanx of green and gold. Mr Purrett was in
full livery and was standing behind my Uncle Digby's wheeled chair. He had
my Uncle Billy and Lady Cornwallis - I mean Lady Browning as she now was -
beside him and a rather solemn Francis Clifford whose features brightened
when he saw us. Each of them was holding a flute of champagne. Other
liveried figures were distributing flutes to other guests. I saw Terence
standing with Captain and Mrs Isabella Bemrose. The Duchess was being
attended to by Jabez who had her ear trumpet in one hand and her flute of
champagne in the other as she searched in her even more voluminous
reticule. We were handed our own flutes by Paolo and Mehmet while at that
moment my sister and her husband came in accompanied by the twins. They
spotted us and rushed to greet Uncle Tom and Uncle Robin as they called us.
There was quite a cacophony of noise with all talking at once.
Antonio and Carlo appeared in miniature livery suits and bearing platters
of small tasty pastries. I wondered who was with the boys upstairs. The
last to appear was the old naval Captain.
I counted up that there would be eighteen seated with the two
youngsters included. Did my sister know of the rescued boys? Hatty did
seem rather bemused when she spotted Robin and me. I greeted her and her
husband and as the boys were chatting animatedly with Robin and looking up
at a smiling George I moved to the side of the room with them. I saw
Francis Clifford come to join the boys. The Reverend James then said he
had received a short letter from Uncle Digby this morning with a few
details which he had shared with Hatty. He said he would ask nothing more
this evening but if there was anything he could do we only had to ask. My
sister said the letter indicated we had rescued three boys, where were they
now? I quickly told them one was Timmy from Careby and the other two were
country boys who had fallen on hard times and all were upstairs. I said
there was much to tell but not this evening. I could say no more as
Terence and Torquil joined us and my sister was kissed by her other two
brothers. It was then I heard that Elizabeth and Amelia were both well. I
was commanded to visit them tomorrow and I was nudged by Terence. "Uncle
Tom," he mouthed.
'Captain' Topping in his other disguise as a liveried servant came to
the door and nodded to my Aunt Fanny who had also gone to help the Duchess
unravel whatever she had in her reticule. My aunt smiled at him and within
moments the gong sounded. My Uncle Digby was wheeled out first and Peter
and Philemon went over to the Duchess to escort her to the dining-room.
Robin bowed his head to Lady Browning while Francis Clifford did his duty
and escorted my Aunt Fanny. I took the arm of Isabella Bemrose and George
my sister Hatty Canning. A procession of lonely males followed us and I
received another nudge from my brother as I stood until Isabella was
seated. Captain Browning would have to be reprimanded in some way for his
unruly behaviour!
There was no mention of the events of the past days as the fine array
of courses was presented. The only comment came from Isabella who said she
had been visiting her sister and niece on Sunday afternoon and had noted
the busyness of the street, with the number of coaches and carriages which
were arriving and leaving. Her own coachman had difficulty in drawing up
and at least one of the larger coaches had an ornate coat of arms on its
door. No one remarked on this and conversation turned to a play which was
drawing the crowds. Though I had thought the Duchess a trifle deaf she,
nonetheless, heard that conversation from the other side of the table. She
launched into a most entertaining retelling of the play's plot and as my
New Aunt - for so I thought of her as that - had also attended a
performance she joined in, saying the audience had been most amused when
one of the actors had walked unknowingly into a chair which should not have
been there and fell flat on his face. This set the scene for tales of
other theatrical disasters witnessed over the years. I looked at Robin who
grinned at me as we could have told of young Lawson's apple slipping during
our final rehearsal and ending up as a large lump near the knee of his
tight hose until he rescued it and slid it back up into its rightful
position. It was sheer luck only Robin and I had noted its descent and
replacement. Robin did suggest he wrapped it in a handkerchief which could
be secured with a pin to his drawers. This, of course, made the bulge even
larger to his great delight! He was even mor delighted when we told him
that was called a codpiece.
I had noted that after the second course Jabez took Peter and Philemon
away. As they passed behind me I heard him whisper there was a surprise
for them upstairs. I surmised they would be meeting the boys. I saw that
Antonio and Carlo had also disappeared, no doubt already to be with them.
Convention was again put aside as the ladies did not retire as the
last covers were removed but remained and took a glass of sweet wine while
port was served to the gentlemen, including us. It was also noticeable
that no pipes or cheroots were lit in deference to my Uncle Digby's health,
for he remained in a chair at the table. Boxes of snuff were circulated
and each of us took a pinch. I did not sneeze this time and experienced
that strange tingle in my nostrils. There was an announcement that George
wished to join the Regiment which seemed to satisfy the curiosity of the
Duchess and the naval captain of our presence. As we rose to take each
other's leave I saw Uncle Billy in conversation with George who was shaken
by the hand as my Uncle bade him farewell. I did have a moment with
Francis before he followed my Uncle Billy and Lady Mary. He said we would
be departing for Careby on Wednesday. He was looking forward to the visit.
Wednesday? I could say nothing. So far, no plans of our travel back home
had been given us. It would mean we would arrive back on Good Friday if
all went well and we would then have fourteen or so days before Ashbourne
loomed. Oh yes, and Harrow for Francis.
I went with my sister to the front door and waited until Jabez and
James Canning appeared each carrying a very tired-looking boy. "Mama," I
heard one of them say, "May we have boys as well?"
Mehmet was with the Duchess and I saw him hand the usual small package
to her which was dropped into her reticule. He looked immense against her
frail-seeming figure as he handed her down the steps and to her carriage.
He received the usual sweet smile and something was pressed into his hand
as he bowed his head towards her.
We said goodnight to all who were leaving and I managed to give
Terence a retaliatory shove as he turned away from me at the top of the
steps. He did not stumble as I had hoped, for it was evident he was
expecting something of that sort to happen. "Be prepared," he whispered as
he went down to join Captain Bemrose and Isabella in their carriage. I saw
he had Caleb Bottom as his batman and he acknowledged me with a smile.
Torquil was the last to leave. He just had a few steps to walk along
the road but had Mr Purrett by his side. He shook us each by the hand. He
smiled at George. "I think the Colonel-in-Chief is impressed," he averred.
"He said he had received a letter from my Uncle Digby." As the
Colonel-in-Chief was my uncle also I would have expected him to have been
told something of our exploits but, other than the usual smile and
good-natured greeting, Uncle Billy had said nothing.
Jabez and Mehmet accompanied us up the stairs. We were well-fed and
tired and George was ecstatic. Each of the four officers in the Regiment
who had been present had more or less said he was sure of being
commissioned, none more so than Uncle Billy who had told him he would be
writing to his father. Lord Harford would be receiving a deal of
correspondence from London over the next few days!
With all that had been happening since we started our eventful journey
from Careby there was one thing which had been missing. I had till now had
no desire to shed my seed. But now that it seemed all our cares were over
that insistent urge was again upon me. I had not had opportunity to ask
Robin if he had taken pleasure since Careby. Oh, there would be three
again in the bed and even as I was shedding my clothes I was close to
shedding... I saw that the other two were engaged in chatting to Jabez and
Mehmet who were brushing and folding their tailcoats and trousers as they
discarded them. I would be first in the closet! Naked and clutching my
nightshirt I shut myself in. My unruly pizzle was beginning to harden but
I did manage to piss. After that it did not require many strokes before my
cannon fired its salvo. I was breathing heavily as I dropped the soft
paper which had caught my grapeshot into the pan. The water flushed that
evidence away as I pulled the nightshirt over my head. My breathing had
subsided but I was no doubt rather red in the face.
As I let myself out the other two had not missed me. George was
laughing over some quip he must have made to Jabez who was standing by him;
Robin was being helped to don his nightshirt by Mehmet. After that little
exertion and the dinner, of course, I was ready for bed. I climbed in on
the side I was used to and yawned. The others were quiet as they bade
goodnight to Jabez and Mehmet and both used the water closet quickly. I
was nearly asleep when they, too, climbed into bed and one of them must
have extinguished the gas lamps. I realised Robin was next to me with
George on the outside. They must have thought I was already asleep as
neither spoke to me. I was in an almost comatose state when I became aware
of slight movements beside me. There was heavy breathing from both my bed
companions. Both were taking care of the need I had also quelled just a
few moments ago. I kept still and allowed my breathing to be slow and
steady. There were sharp intakes of breath, first from Robin beside me
then from George, as that urgent release came. They must have come to bed
supplied with soft paper as I heard a quiet whisper from George telling
Robin to pass him his paper and he would drop it on the floor. No doubt it
would be well- soaked if they both had built up the reservoir I had let
loose!
I was awake early, even before the arrival of our hot water. I slid
out of bed and went in the semi-darkness round the other side and spied the
discarded lump of paper. I thought I had better not try to play a jape on
the still-sleeping pair with it in case it was not Jabez who came to wake
them. I needed the water closet so being good-natured I deposited the
still- damp mess before I let my water flow. Seeing the paper and thinking
of my companions and our efforts the night before set me aflame and my
juices soon spurted once more. I sat and eased myself and then flushed all
away.
It was still early for I heard the church clock chime six as I
rejoined the others and dozed again. It did not seem long but the clock
was striking seven as the door was opened and Jabez and two of the grooms
came clattering in carrying the usual pitchers of hot water. They were
followed by Mehmet bearing clean shirts, undergarments and stockings. I
roused myself and sat up. I was sure Jabez made a noisy entrance on
purpose because it had the desired effect and a grunting, bleary-eyed
George protested loudly. He did not swear greatly, for I was sure Cedric
Branscombe would have done so, but he consigned Jabez and his minions to
the fires of Hell and Damnation for spoiling a most wonderful dream. He
must have remembered the depositing of the paper during the night and also
slid out of the bed, but most carefully. I wondered the content of his
dream as his nightshirt betrayed a certain excitement on his part. Or, at
least, on a part of him! It was noted by the grooms who, as they departed,
had broad smiles and were nudging each other. As they were no more than
our age they would have good experience of such arousal and would, no
doubt, have a tale to tell their fellows. It was fortuitous I had removed
the still-sticky mass from the floor for it would have been noticeable and
would have provided more material for gossip for, no matter what station
they might be, lads are lads!
After George had completed his tirade he did look somewhat puzzled. I
had vacated the bed again and was standing by the bowls on the side table
so saw him looking on the floor and even lifting the draped coverlet. Some
ghoulie or ghostie must have entered the room during the night and spirited
the evidence away, or had it only been some dream of pleasure? He shrugged
his shoulders and came over to where Jabez was filling his bowl with hot
water.
I had already removed my nightshirt so was naked. George did the same
and I noted he was no longer aroused. The puzzlement must have been enough
to diminish his need. He was quiet now and we washed and dried ourselves
in silence. From the look on his face Robin had not been pleased with all
the commotion. He crawled from the haven of the bed and joined us. He was
not abashed as he discarded his nightshirt and displayed that morning
excitement we all experienced most frequently. I saw George glance at the
more than boyish length which, as Robin washed, softened and drooped.
Mehmet had been busy laying out our clothing while Jabez had handed us
our towels. I knew Jabez was having a deal of difficulty in not sniggering
outright at the sight of two usually quite voluble boys silently making
sure bellies especially were well-washed while a third was grinning to
himself.
As we finished and Mehmet started to hand us vests, shirts,
underclouts and so on Jabez cleared his throat. "Gentlemen, may I be
permitted to inform you of matters for today and tomorrow." I stared at
him. How formal! We continued dressing as George put his hands up and
flapped his ears to signify Jabez should continue. Jabez's lip curled a
little in response to that gesture. "First, the boys and Timmy will be
taken to the tailor and outfitter all at the expense of Her Majesty's
government..." He got no further for we all laughed and George shouted
'Hear! Hear!'. Jabez bowed his head. "Second, a visit to the barracks
will take place at nine thirty for those interested in military matters or
not." George was smiling most contentedly at that. "Thirdly, Mrs Torquil
Browning and Miss Browning will receive callers at twelve thirty and
luncheon will take place at the Browning residence during that visit." It
was my turn to smile. Not only for the prospect of luncheon but I would be
seeing my sister-in-law and my niece! Jabez then made a show of counting
on his fingers and not knowing how many things he had numbered. "Fourthly,
Master Philip Goodhew and Master John Harrison have been commanded to
attend at four o'clock precisely. Finally, the return to Careby will begin
at nine o'clock tomorrow morning." He looked at his hand again. "I have
forgotten. Breakfast will be served as soon as you wish for the carriage
will leave at nine o'clock." Mehmet, as usual, was not approving of
Jabez's seeming insolence but he did smile when I looked at him and raised
my eyebrows while grinning. George did not say anything though the
reference to Philip and the Harrison boy must have puzzled him. I surmised
he was much more interested in either the visit to the barracks or the
prospect of lunch! And breakfast now!
In the breakfast room Paolo was standing by the serving dishes and
pointed to a folded newssheet on the table. He said Mr Topping had put it
there for us to read. There was a sensational headline which stood out in
large black type.
DEVASTATION AT BANKSIDE
George picked the newssheet up and read aloud what appeared under it:
'It is reported that an abandoned warehouse on the quay has been
destroyed, it is thought by the discharge of a quantity of
gunpowder.
We have no information of the possible perpetrators though activity
of a sinister nature had been noted over the past few weeks with
cries
and shouts around the already derelict structure. A respectable
witness
said several men of a seemingly foreign nature had been seen in the
vicinity shortly before the occasion of the collapse of the
building
though none remained after. One opinion is that wild beasts may
also
have been kept in captivity there at some time as several cages
were
lately removed though no animals or carcases were evident.'
He breathed out heavily as he finished reading. "I feared there might
be more." He shook his head. "We must be thankful for small mercies." He
put the newssheet down and Robin peered at it.
"There is little truth in it. Gunpowder, yes, but what quantity?
That old crone had thought it to be haunted and said she heard cries.
Would we be among those seemingly foreign men, or were they the captors?"
He did smile then. "Perhaps in time to come we might show Timmy and the
boys their description." He held George's arm. "I am sure that account
will satisfy any curious person who may have heard rumours."
The removal of a body and the debris strewn around was not alluded to.
I surmised the respectable witness would have been either Mr Topping or Mr
Pemberton and whosoever wrote the paragraph had to be satisfied with the
meagre information. It was also interesting that no mention had been made
of the murdered boy found off the quay some days earlier. No connection
had been made between the two events.
Breakfast was soon over and we had to ready ourselves for the visit to
the barracks. We looked again like the young gentlemen we were in our
elegant suits with dark capes and our new top hats as we entered the Mews.
Uncle Digby's finest coach was there, newly polished, with four of the
greys harnessed and Mr Churcher with Jacobson on the box. Only the best!
Mr Topping was to accompany us. He said we would go through Curzon Street
to Park Lane and turn into Piccadilly to reach Hyde Park Corner thence down
Constitution Hill to drive along the front of the Palace to reach the
barracks through a back entrance in York Street.
It was on that journey that Mr Topping revealed he had held a
commission in a field regiment but had joined my uncle's entourage, as he
called it, on the recommendation of his Colonel. George was fascinated
with his story as he wanted to know if he felt being a servant was
demeaning.
"Sir, it is only one part of my employment," he said with a laugh.
"It is better than even being on the stage. I have played a number of
roles over the ten years I have been with Sir Digby and being a liveried
servant is somewhat the easiest." He shook his head. "I cannot say what
enterprises I have been engaged in but you have seen one such just the last
few days."
"Disguise would seem an important detail, for we have seen you as
three characters in this short time," said George. "A servant, a vagrant
almost and the gentleman you really are. A play actor in more ways than
one."
Mr Topping smiled. "Remember you have also played a part in
disguise." Both Robin and I laughed at this because we had, too. "When
you become a soldier of Her Majesty that will also be a form of disguise.
You will show a public face in your uniform but beneath you will be that
person you always have been and will be. That is something to remember for
it is all too easy to allow that disguise to take over and it can almost
destroy one's character."
George was nodding. "Sir, that is so true. My father has an
acquaintance who even though retired many years still parades each day in
an old outdated uniform much to the amusement and also the disgust of most
of the County. My father tolerates him as he is a good shot but does not
take kindly to his boasts and swaggering manner."
"I have met many like that," Mr Topping said, "There is almost a
blindness which prevents them seeing that they are no more than a
caricature."
This was something I had not thought about but even amongst
schoolfellows there were some who showed evidence of such behaviour
especially some of the braggarts in Pratt's House. I could not imagine
George to be like that.
Part of this journey would be new to me. I had not before been driven
past the Royal Palace and we joshed George that he would be on duty there
quite soon. He did look a little apprehensive then for we were delayed
somewhat by a troop of mounted soldiers who were returning to Knightsbridge
from guard duties at the Palace and took precedence over a carriage full of
mere civilians. The delay was not too long for we were able to drive
through the gates to the barrack square some minutes before we were due.
We were directed towards a stable where we disembarked. I noted that Mr
Topping remained in the carriage.
My brother Terence was waiting in the company of a senior officer to
whom we were introduced. He was a full Colonel and seemed to be quite
impressed by George's bearing and sturdy figure. Of course, he knew
George's brother Geoffrey who was busy with his troop at the barracks near
Canterbury. I was next in line and the Colonel asked if I intended joining
the regiment in company with my brothers and my uncle. It was difficult to
find a polite response but I said I had set my path towards being a
physician. He smiled and said he had heard that from my brother and I
could always have a place as surgeon to the Regiment. Robin was not
introduced as Torquil's son but just as Master Goodhew. He was not asked
what his desires might be for at that moment a small mounted troop with
lances came from behind the stables and our attention was drawn to them.
The Colonel explained there were a dozen riders and this troop was
newly-formed with recruits who had been in the Regiment barely two months.
We heard that there were many young men, especially from good farming
stock, desirous of a place because of the poor living now to be had from
the land. There was need, therefore, for more officers for this Regiment
and others, too, were expanding. He was adamant that only gentlemen
recommended by serving officers would be allowed to buy the required
commission to join the Regiment. He brushed his moustaches then and
smiled. He wished us well and strode off.
Terence turned to George. "You have been weighed in the balances and
not found wanting. Colonel Johnson would have given you short shrift
otherwise." The pair grinned at each other.
George bowed his head. "Captain Browning, it is my greatest desire to
join you and my brother. I will need careful training but when I set my
mind to a task I try to succeed as I hope that young brother of yours will
confirm."
I could not belittle George by some quip about Latin declensions but
could only agree. Even when he found the going hard in his schoolwork he
made every effort to overcome the hurdles.
"George, you will be in command as soon as you have your commission,"
I said. I could not resist it. "You have shown your mastery already for I
am commanded each day at Ashbourne..." I did not finish for again we were
distracted. This time by two pairs of heavy horses drawing large cannon
urged on by running soldiers who did manage a salute as they passed an
officer.
As they went by with a great clatter over the cobbles Terence
explained they were from an artillery regiment and were preparing for a big
parade in Hyde Park to commemorate a royal birthday next week. He wasn't
sure whose birthday but the gunners would have plenty of beer after to
clear their throats of the smoke from the gunpowder. He suggested we might
need a little sustenance ourselves this morning as well but we must see the
stables first.
If I thought our stables were busy these were busier still. Each of
the troopers not on duty was tending to his mount under the eagle eyes of
sergeants and corporals who were checking manes, tails, coats and all the
harness which was either being fitted or was being polished assiduously by
a number of young lads. We were told these were bandboys who played the
fifes and would be enrolled as troopers once they were grown or were of a
proper age. Terence had a cheery word with them and I could see he was
respected by all for his interest.
Near the stables was the farrier's yard and there we met Amos Barker.
He was busy shoeing a fine mount so didn't see us as we approached. When
he looked up his eyes opened wide in surprise and he doffed the leather cap
he was wearing. We greeted him and had to tell George this was another
from Careby and he would meet his brothers on our return there. We asked
about Abel and were told he had been sent to Canterbury to be responsible
for the regimental office there.
As we left him George said it seemed that Careby supplied most of the
personnel of the Regiment. He had seen Caleb Bottom attending on Terence
the night before and been told he was Jabez's brother. "Only the best for
us," Terence said, "And Careby has the finest!" He did stop and look at
George. "And Garthorpe of course!" They grinned at each other again.
We watched from a raised dais as troopers rehearsed manoeuvres of
various kinds which interested George much more than us though we could
appreciate the precision and proficiency of the riders. Terence was
explaining to him the names of the particular movements which would be
essential if ever in battle. There was a display of riding with lances and
another where the use of sabres was practised. Robin asked about riding
into battle if faced with cannon such as we had seen. "That is all part of
being a soldier," Terence said, "You ride towards your adversary even
though your life is in danger. There are not only cannon but rifles and
pistols to face but we rely on our speed and dexterity with sword and
lance. God preserve us we do not have to go to battle but we must be
prepared." He smiled at me as he said that. "Be prepared," I thought.
As we walked towards the Officers' Mess George thanked Terence for his
time and also for all he had shown us. In the Mess we must have been
expected for Captain Bemrose was there with two other officers and they
indicated we should be seated with them. Uniformed waiters then brought us
cups and plates and it was then the first time either Robin or George had
sampled coffee which they were told was a favourite beverage in gentlemen's
clubs and the coffee houses in the City of London. I had tasted it on a
previous visit to London and was pleased for I had enjoyed it then. George
was rather silent at first but relaxed for he found Captain Bemrose was
familiar with his part of northern England and was related to the Radcliffe
family. As it is with the gentry the other two officers also found
connections, perhaps somewhat remote, between families or estates. We knew
we should not tarry too long for we had to return to Charles Street. It
was then that my brother Torquil came in and as a Lieutenant Colonel he was
greeted with due deference, even by two Majors who were older than him and
sitting separately from us.
After greeting George he turned to me. "Well, brother, have you
decided a soldier's life is for you instead of doling out potions for
sneezes and bellyaches..." He did not wait for me to reply but turned to
Robin who was eyeing him quizzically as he was in a plainer uniform than
the night before. "And you, my Robin, a place in the Regiment?"
"Thank you, sir, but no. I would rather be like Archimedes and think
of other ways of defeating one's enemies."
Torquil laughed and it was George's turn to look quizzical. "He
placed curved mirrors to set fire to the sails of the enemy ships, is that
not so?" Torquil asked and laughed again. " It is one of the few things
which excited me at Ashbourne for Mr Ridley told us that tale. Parfitt
said it was too good to be true but to try the power of the sun's rays
Collinson set fire to Pullen's britches with a lens for he had no curved
mirror. Of course, Pullen was asleep after a rather heavy luncheon of
small beer and brandy."
George smiled at that and I saw Captain Bemrose grin at the telling.
It was my experience that Pullen and his tankard were seldom separated
other than when he slept or was applying his cane to a pupil's arsecheeks!
"Pullen is no more at Ashbourne," George said which caused Torquil to
stare. "He is in an almshouse and we have a new Usher who neither drinks
nor beats pupils unfairly." I had not heard George make a judgement on
Sharpin before. I knew he approved of him for I had seen him give him the
time of day if he was in his cubby hole and pass him a coin with a smile.
With Pullen the passage of a coin had been to prevent unjust punishment to
any in his view in our House.
Torquil shook his head. "That wretch caused many of us schoolfellows
sleepless nights after he had reddened our backsides. I do confess to
being in his firing line on many an occasion deservedly but at other times
I was, perhaps, the nearest." Oh, Torquil, you have confirmed again your
lack of scholarly ways! He shook his head. "It was difficult to better
him. We tried many times but he always managed to find the perpetrator.
He knew just by looking at us who had stuck a toad in his tankard or hung a
pillowcase of cow pats from the back of his chair. Collinson got ten
strokes for the burning as the fool set the lens as a monocle to play the
goat imitating some fop of a tutor we had who sported one."
We took more coffee and George commented how tasty the pastries were.
Another reason for him to join the Regiment! There was a little more
general chat, mainly between the officers about the Easter Hunts they would
be attending and then it was time for us to leave on our next mission.
George was shaken by the hand by the three officers as Torquil escorted
Robin and me to the door of the Mess. "You will be seeing Elizabeth and
Amelia now," he said with a smile, "Give them my love..." He turned to
each of us in turn. "...and it is yours, too." He patted us both on the
back. "Uncle Digby said last night that he cannot praise you too highly.
You have shown you are true Brownings. True soldiers!"
Mr Topping said we had time to return by the road around St James's
Park through to Pall Mall and drive up St James's Street and view the
house. He said he did not advise visiting it as it needed much repair and
cleaning. George was satisfied with that for he was more concerned with
other matters and was quite voluble on the journey back. He was determined
he wanted to join the Regiment and was telling Mr Topping all he had seen
this morning. I said from the welcome he had received today and what was
said last night I was sure he would gain the required commission. "It will
cost my father a deal but as he paid for Geoffrey I am sure he won't
begrudge me," he declared.
"If he doesn't you could enlist for a trooper," said cheeky Robin.
"You will then have a free uniform and a good horse at no expense. Do not
forget there will be the half guinea or so promised to us from the
government and you could then have a tailor improve the fit of the
britches. If it is more I am sure Tom and I will lend you another sixpence
or even a shilling." He put his hands together in contemplation. "As a
trooper you won't need all that yellow braid. I saw that in the window of
the upholsterer's and it was thruppence a yard best quality. Think of the
money your father would save." He didn't continue for George grabbed him
and held him tight.
"And you would write and tell him all this I aver!" George tried to
shake him but both dissolved into laughter as did Mr Topping. "My father
is no skinflint I am sure but I know his eyebrows raised when he heard what
he had to pay for all Geoffrey's needs. The dowry helped on Geoffrey's
marriage but I know ready money is a constant worry for him." That was an
interesting observation as I realised my Uncle Digby must have settled a
good amount on Rosamund on her marriage especially to a Viscount's son.
George sat back in his seat having let a chuckling Robin go free. "I
am confident my future is secure. My father would not have suggested the
visit to the barracks..."
Robin had not finished! "...Unless he was of the opinion it might
deter you from contemplating such a future."
George just laughed. "You wretch! I shall have the desire to use a
cane on your backside like that scoundrel Pullen." He shook his head. "I
am so pleased we can josh each other in this way. I can but hope I would
find such good friends in the Regiment." He held a finger up. "I have but
one more term at school. I will be eighteen shortly and feel I am getting
old too soon."
It was true. Both Robin and I would soon be sixteen. Two more years
at Ashbourne. What would that future hold? We had had excitements enough
just this last week or so but also good memories of our visit to France.
We stopped for no more than a minute outside the house in James's
Street. George peered out of the window and commented it looked like many
other houses and that short viewing quite satisfied him. Thus, we arrived
back at the Mews both in good humour and good time before we had the visit
to my sister-in-law and niece. Mr Topping bade us good day and went into
the stables with Mr Churcher. I had had the foresight before we left for
the barracks to ask Jabez if a bouquet might be purchased for us to take as
a present. A most beautiful arrangement was ready for us even as we
entered the door. Jabez was a wretch, too, for he stood holding it with
his other hand outstretched. Mr Pembridge was beside him and slapped his
hand. "There is little control over servants these days!" Mr Pembridge
said with a smile. He knew we were quite aware that he was no servant
either.
What could I do but find a single penny loose in a pocket. Jabez
simpered as I placed it in his paw which he immediately closed. He then
handed the bouquet to George who took it quite uncomprehendingly and looked
at it and then back at Mr Pembridge and to Jabez.
"No, sir, 'tis not for you," the rogue said with such an ingratiating
tone, "Though those blue flowers do match your eyes so prettily."
Mr Pembridge's chest was heaving as George stared again at both. Once
more he had to make a rapid adjustment. It was Robin who spoke.
"George, let me take the flowers or you will crush them to pieces."
He stepped forward and the bouquet passed to him. George was shaking his
head.
"This household," he murmured. He had already taken off his hat and
was ready to remove his cloak. "I must assume I will have to find a
hanging peg myself for this..." He held up his top hat. "...And for my
cloak."
Jabez bowed his head and took the hat from him. "Sir, if you will
follow me I will show you a suitable peg for your cloak." George turned to
me as I was snorting with laughter.
"I blame you, Thomas Browning, you brought me here..." I thought he
might be angry. "...But I have learned so much for which I am grateful."
He was laughing now and swung round to face Mr Pembridge. "Each moment I
have been in this house has taught me not to make judgements from my past
life. You were a soldier, too?"
Mr Pembridge nodded. "Second and third sons are often required to
take up arms for their sovereign." George grinned at that. Mr Pembridge
continued, "A mere lieutenant though, but I had some years serving at the
Paris Embassy and elsewhere before I entered Sir Digby's employ." Jabez
had said he was fluent in French and we had heard he had been in Marseille.
I wondered what role he was playing there and what had been his disguise?
My musings were interrupted by George who echoed my thoughts.
"Another play actor, too?" George asked rhetorically. "I would hope
to hear more of any exploits once I am in London again."
Mr Pembridge shook his head. "You have been privy to certain actions
which had to be taken. You have been asked not to divulge whatever you
have learned and that is true for all here in the house for anything we
do."
George nodded. "I understand. It would seem there are many matters
which it would be better not to know about. Sir Digby has been most open
with us but what we have seen or heard is only part, is that not so?"
"That is correct. We have pledged our allegiance to Her Majesty and
her government and we are under command to investigate persons, or events,
if it is considered they might be of some danger to our country or, even,
to others."
Robin had been listening intently. "This is but part of our history.
There have always been dangers to the state and the pursuit of those who
might be its enemies. We have heard of how Guy Fawkes was captured and
that intelligence has always been sought from merchants and travellers."
Mr Pembridge laughed. "You are being polite. I would say our history
shows the reliance on spies and paid informers. I will say no more!"
I wanted to know more but knew I could not ask. It was at that moment
the grandfather clock in the hallway struck midday. Our hats and cloaks
were taken from us by the servants - by those in that guise - and we rushed
upstairs to tidy ourselves for the short walk to the other house.
Jabez followed us and asked if there was anything we needed. "The
closet!" was George's more than polite reply as I, too, was in desperate
need of a piss!
Once we were all relieved Jabez said he would accompany us as our
trusty bulldog as there might be rough fellows about. George gave him a
playful nudge. "Our bulldog will carry the bouquet in his jaws, eh?" He
got a slight sneer in response and Jabez got another nudge.
We assembled again downstairs and collected our hats and cloaks
ourselves much to George's amusement and Robin insisted he would carry the
flowers. Again a great welcome. Mr Tolliver was at the door with Mr
Partridge, who I had forgotten had been another of Uncle Digby's retainers.
Behind them was the boy William who had grown even in the short time since
I had last seen him. We took off hats and cloaks and George deliberately
handed his hat to Jabez who bowed his head and took his cloak as well.
Jabez remained in the hallway as Mr Tolliver accompanied us up the stairs
to a bedroom where Elizabeth was in bed, propped up and looking most
healthy. There was a young nursemaid who stood and bobbed her head when
our entry was announced. By her side was a crib in which, I assumed was
the infant, Amelia.
"Do come in," Elizabeth said. We each went up to her. Robin and I
leaned up and kissed her cheek but gallant George lifted her hand and
kissed her fingers. He had to be introduced properly but Elizabeth stopped
me in full flow by holding up a hand. "Tom, my brother has already said
what a good friend Master Lascelles is to him so I feel I already know him.
That is, if I understood football which I have been told is his favourite
occupation."
George was smiling. "Ma'am, that is so, Cedric has skills on the
field of which he should be proud." Ho, ho! I think that was the first
time I had heard George refer to him by his Christian name.
Elizabeth laughed. "I am glad girls are not expected to rush about as
he does in all weathers." She looked over at Robin who was standing silent
and solemn and still clutching the bouquet. Elizabeth was his stepmother
and had readily accepted him as Torquil's son. He saw her smile and
stepped forward to hold up the bouquet.
"Please accept a small present," he said and his handsome face
returned the smile. Elizabeth took the sweet-smelling nosegay from him.
She looked at the three of us and thanked us. I waited for another sally
but she turned on her pillows and handed the bouquet to the nursemaid who
pulled a bell-rope near the head of the bed. A parlourmaid appeared at the
door and took the flowers away to be placed in a suitable vase.
We then had to inspect the babe: my niece and Robin's half-sister. I
had seen a number of these small creatures when in Lancelot's company and
he was making visits to his patients. They all looked the same whether of
high station or low. Generally red-faced and ready to scream when
disturbed or hungry. Amelia was no different, though while we peered
attentively she, at least, remained placidly asleep. Elizabeth said she
was settled for she had recently been fed. Robin made some remark that he
often felt sleepy after a good meal which made Elizabeth laugh.
"I concur, my dear, it is the same with me. That and poor
conversation!" I realised my sister-in-law had a ready humour. "I am so
pleased to see you. I am bored but that doctor says I must rest for
another three days. Tell me, there has been so much disturbance in the
street with carriages arriving and departing. No one here will tell me who
or what. My sister Isabella promised to find out more but she is not
visiting me again until tomorrow. I think she finds the shops more
interesting."
I looked at George. He nodded slightly. I would make my story short
and sweet. Or as sweet as possible. I said we had heard that a boy from
Careby had been kidnapped and were sure he was in London and that was why
we were here. He had been found with two other captured boys but other
more disturbing matters had been uncovered and my Uncle Digby had informed
the authorities which accounted for all the visitors.
Elizabeth smiled. "That is all you can tell me, is it not?" My
sister-in-law was very alert.
George cleared his throat. "Ma'am, there may be more, but..."
Elizabeth held up a hand. "I have no need to hear more." There was a
hint of a grin. "No doubt my husband will know." She smiled. "But no,
Torquil is the soul of discretion and I am satisfied with what you have
told me." She turned and instructed the nursemaid to pull the bell-rope
again. "I am now disobeying that doctor's orders. If you will excuse me I
will rise and dress. Perhaps, not too formally. We shall have luncheon
together downstairs, that is if you deign to dine with a lone female." She
laughed. "Do not say anything, my mind is made up." She raised both hands
as if to shoo us out.
At that moment young William appeared and was given instructions to
take us down to the parlour and to find her maid. He was rather conflicted
with the two sets of instructions and as the house seemed to be of the same
construction as my Uncle Digby's I said we could no doubt find the parlour.
"Thank you, sir, I will find Prudence in the servants' hall and send her
up."
I led the way down the stairs and found the parlour easily. It was
sparsely furnished but did have a chaise-longue and a rather uncomfortable
padded chair. George and Robin commandeered the chaise-longue and I had
the chair. George was grinning and Robin had a smirk on his face.
"Branscombe's sister is most lively," George said as soon as he was
settled. "He has said she speaks her mind and he has been grateful for
that in the past when his father has made undue demands on him. I do not
have sisters so I find it difficult to know how I might respond."
I laughed. "My sisters are most forthright, too. My brother-in-law
at St Paul's says that Hatty would make a good Dean or even a Bishop
without any of the double-talk he has had to deal with!"
George was nodding. "I must admit I found her a delightful companion
at dinner. She did not hesitate to tell Terence that he had not known that
Geoffrey Chaucer was a poet when he said he thought my brother had been
named after him as he was a most-renowned soldier." He nudged Robin.
"There is no need to grin. I do know who Chaucer was as my mother said
Geoffrey was not named for him but for our grandfather."
I knew why he was grinning. We had found a copy of the 'Canterbury
Tales' in Uncle Dodd's library and he had said it was among the first poems
written in English. I had turned the pages but it was not English as I
knew it. I did find the 'Miller's Tale' and Robyn was the miller. Even
his name was spelled differently! When we asked Lancelot about the book he
laughed and said it was good we could not read it as it was full of
rudeness. He would not explain but said to ask him in ten years time! We
were thirteen at the time! I did persevere and found 'And at the wyndow
out she putte hir hole' and then 'But with his mouth he kiste hir naked
ers'. I was sure Mr Chaucer could not spell so gave up after that and
decided to wait as Lancelot said! Seven years now to go!
We did not have to wait long now as William came to the parlour door
and said that luncheon was ready to be served. Elizabeth was already
seated in the diningroom and chatting to Jabez who was evidently well-known
in the household. She assigned us places with Robin on her right and
George on her left. My place was next to George. We were not disappointed
as the food was good and well-prepared. Another relative of Signor
Bartoli, Signor Bertini, was in charge of the kitchen and Elizabeth said
she hoped they might employ Antonio and Carlo when they were older. We did
not say about the two waifs for I could not say to her what their fate
might have been.
It was a most happy occasion. She did not tire of hearing of life at
Ashbourne for Robin told her of the play and the Sing Songs. She said she
and her sisters had received their education from governesses who had
varied from erudite to useless. She was of the opinion she could construe
Latin prose as well as her brother though had never dared tell him. George
said that no doubt she would find Robin better company in that exercise. I
dared Robin by my look to make some comment in that language though he did
not. It was she who also looked at him and then said "Robine, nasus et
oculi patrem referunt" which made him redden and I could not help but
snigger. She turned and patted George on the arm. "I apologise both to
you and for the embarrassment I have caused our Robin." It was a true
description. His nose and forehead had been handed down by his father.
George had recovered his composure. I doubt if he had ever heard a
lady speak Latin. I must admit I had only heard my Aunt Matty make remarks
to my Uncle Dodd, usually when he was being absent-minded or absorbed in
his books. I recalled her asking 'cenabis hodie domi?' when he had been
distracted one afternoon over a request to visit another of the clergy in a
nearby parish. He just shook his head. "Nescio," was his response. She
had just smiled at me. "Then Tom will stay and dine with me. Mrs Reynolds
has a shoulder of lamb roasting in the oven." I was partial to good roast
lamb and remembered that invitation as well as the Latin!
"I have little Latin," George said resignedly. "It is only with the
help of Tom and my good friend Theo I survive."
"I prefer good books in plain English," Elizabeth said with a laugh.
"I fear many would not be to boys' liking." We did talk then of Mr Dickens
and a new story he had written about Christmas and a poor family which she
said we must read and Sir Walter Scott's 'Ivanhoe' where even George nodded
sagely. So luncheon finished most happily on that note.
All three of us were kissed as we took leave of her and we were
commanded to visit again as soon as possible. Jabez was waiting in the
hallway for us and was carrying a capacious cloth bag. He said there were
some pastries for the boys in the parcel specially made by Signor Bertini.
He was sure there would be more at my aunt's but with young Philip and John
Harrison there as well it was advantageous to have the extra supply.
George sniffed as if to catch any aroma and Jabez handed him the bag as he
passed Robin and me our hats and cloaks. George was laughing. "How would
one reprimand a servant in that heathen tongue?"
"Ego tibi subirascor!" said Robin immediately, "Sed, sunt sua cuique
vitia!"
It was my turn to laugh for George looked quite astounded and turned
to me. "I judge you know what he said. Why laugh?"
I explained that Robin had said he was annoyed at me but that everyone
had their faults!
"Monsieur, ... qui la faute? Le mƒitre ou le serviteur? Cette une
demande int‚ressant," Jabez asked.
George shook his head at hearing Jabez speak in French and raised his
hands in defeat. Again I had to translate and said that Jabez had asked
who was at fault, the master or the servant. I said I had heard servants
at Ashbourne reprimanded through no fault of their own. Robin declared he
had been the recipient of more than one rebuke when he was a groom in the
stable at Ashbourne but he knew he had done no wrong. I wondered if I was
being too forward when I said that those of higher station did not relish
confessing to their errors.
George looked rather downcast. "I admit my own short temper at
times." He smiled then. "Jabez, please take this bag for this poor
creature needs his cloak and my less than dutiful fag will no doubt
complain if I do not shift for myself."
I was quicker than him and retrieved his cloak and helped him put it
on. My, I was almost as tall as him now and two years younger. Robin
bowed and passed him his top hat. George made some comment that we would
be repaid for our impertinence but no doubt we would set Mehmet on him. He
held up his fists like a prizefighter then shook his head. "He is another
young man who has skills and a bearing to be proud of. I would value his
friendship, too."
With Jabez also cloaked we made our way back and George looked towards
the end of the road. Two boys were sweeping the crossing. We saw a
passer-by give one a coin. "I must learn more for I feel I have lived with
my eyes closed," George said quietly.
Mr Purrett opened the door as we arrived. There was a young male
servant standing by him whom I did not recognise. The young man bowed his
head as we passed. We could hear much laughter coming along the corridor.
Mr Purrett was smiling. "Master Goodhew and Master Harrison are here. They
arrived early but her Ladyship was ready to receive them. I will go to
announce your own arrival."
Jabez greeted the young man who had accompanied the boys on their
journey here. I heard him say he had carried a portfolio of this week's
drawings. Jabez must have known him well as he then grinned. We doffed
our hats and cloaks and as soon as this was done Mr Purrett returned and we
followed him to the parlour.
My aunt was seated with John Harrison in front of her holding up a
large sheet of drawing paper. Philip was pointing to a most accomplished
portrayal of a young man in an old-fashioned cloak and feathered hat. I
recognised immediately it was the handsome servant waiting outside. I
heard the last of Philip's description. "...he said I should not make
shadows without showing carefully how the light descends..." He stopped as
he espied his foster-brother Robin. My aunt was smiling as they embraced.
"Oh, Robin, I was told you were here,." he said as they parted and smiled
at each other.
After George had been introduced there was the telling of Philip and
his progress. He did look the young artist. He had on a smart short
tail-coat and yellow trousers with a fine ruffled shirt. He corrected his
brother on his description of those nether garments and said they were
'ochre'. I could see that John Harrison and he were the greatest of
friends. John had almost the same apparel but his trousers were of a
brownish hue. We heard Philip had sold several portraits in pencil to
ladies who had visited the School of Art. His clothes and John's had been
purchased with his earnings! The master-in-charge had told him recently he
could begin learning water colour after the summer. He smiled and said
many people wanted a water colour of their residence or garden. The boy
was showing he was also a man of business! My, Oh My, and he not yet
fourteen!
I think George was quite overwhelmed as he leafed through a dozen or
so drawings laid out on the table. He was shaking his head almost in
disbelief. It was then that Jabez brought Timmy and the waifs into the
room. It was Philip's turn to look overwhelmed. He had known Timmy at
Careby and had drawn him at work in the gardens. They embraced, too, and
the two fair-haired boys looked on and Philip said he must draw them as
well. I noted he had already been sizing our George up. What would he be
depicted as? A Roman Emperor no doubt! A Curly with a sizeable....! I
had to stop myself having such thoughts!
My Aunt Fanny was clearly enjoying herself. Though always correct her
kind heart showed itself in her relationship with all these boys. I could
see Philip was a particular favourite but she did not exclude John Harrison
who, though he had a mischievous grin at times, was clearly a good boy at
heart. My Robin looked on and I could see he was so proud of his brother.
There was a rattle outside and Mr Purrett and the Harrison's servant
appeared pushing trolleys with stands of pastries and tartlets and jugs of
cordial. Antonio and Carlo came in behind them and handed plates and
beakers around which were rapidly filled. A grand tea party was then in
progress. Philip came over to Robin and me and said he was so happy and he
had been told he and John Harrison would be coming to Careby with us for
the rest of the Easter vacation. This was also news to us. We certainly
wouldn't be returning in the curricle!
It was near half past five o'clock when the assembly broke up. Philip
and John were taken to see my Uncle Digby before they departed and more
laughter was heard. I spoke to Timmy who was both happy and sad to return
to Careby with us. He had been assured the two boys would be cared for as
he had become most fond of them and he had been told he was welcome at
Charles Street at any time.
It was a quiet time after all had left. I felt it would not be
opportune to ask my Uncle Digby if the strange table might be demonstrated
before dinner as there was still activity around his study. That would
have to wait until we and George were in residence again! I was sure that
would not be long for if he was to be bought a commission it would be for
September, no doubt, and we might be here in London to see him receive it!
That is if we were invited. My brothers would have to be commanded!
Dinner that evening was with just my Uncle Digby and Aunt Fanny at the
table with us three. We heard then that Terence would be riding with us to
Careby with Caleb as his attendant. They would ride and we would be
conveyed in a commodious coach for it would be filled by seven lads,
including Francis Clifford, who would be joining us in the morning. I did
not enquire how the curricle might be returned.
It was not late when we repaired to our bedroom for we would have a
long day travelling tomorrow. Jabez and Mehmet had already laid out our
nightgowns and there was hot water on the hearth. Jabez said they would
wake us at seven which would give us good time to wash, dress and eat. This
last with a nod towards George who, having consumed four glasses of wine
and one and a half of port was quite ebullient. I think he had to restrain
himself from leaping at Jabez and bussing him but did put his arms round
him as if to steady himself. "I will miss this place," he said. "And you
and Mehmet. Oh! my legs seem a little weak." What happened next was
hilarious as George lay back on the bed and Jabez and Mehmet stripped him
completely while he burbled on happily. He needed the closet so between
them they lifted him and almost carried him and deposited him on the pan.
Luckily he did not need to shit and Jabez was spared a task he had aided me
with when I was very young! The room was warm from the fire in the grate
so George was placed, still naked, in the bed and the pair left Robin and
me to ready ourselves for slumber. Luckily, Robin knew how to turn off the
gas lamps for we, too, had got into bed naked and with George beside us
snoring we kissed and shared our love and those juices which soon flowed
copiously.
To be continued:
P.S. Please make a donation to Nifty to keep the site running. Details
are on the Nifty Home page. Thanks. Jo.