cywrain

Lord Gilbert Beaufoyle found keeping up the reputation of a dissipated young fellow quite excessively tedious – had less time than he would have liked to wrestle with the intricacies of the Basque language – but duty called and there was some likelihood that as he went about these exploits might come across some intelligence about this matter of a Society extortionist.

However, had not found out anything of material value, and was spending a quiet hour of self-indulgence at Mulcaster House with Lécluse’s Grammaire Basque, when he was interrupted by the entrance of his younger brother Steenie.

Gillie?

Hmmmm?

You know Bertie – Bertie Fawsley –

Mmmmm. Fawsley was one of Steenie’s versifying set and contributor to that poetical rag Helicon – sure one was amazed that issues ever appeared!

–  Well, Elkington – oh yes, he was Elkington’s younger brother – goes give a party at Vasterlake, and is very desirous that I should prevail upon you to attend.

Gillie yawned. Oh lord. What a horrid bore. I suppose you have no idea who the other guests are like to be?

Though he was fairly confident that at least the Ladies Leah and Inez would be not among their number, since they were both at present assisting the electoral activities of their families by showing civil at balls, handing teacups, &C. Also fancied that Elkington stood rather aloof from the Nuttenford/Offgrange connexion, so they might not have been invited even in less political times.

Steenie shrugged. Said somewhat about Frimleigh, did you not encounter him in Dresden or somewhere like that?

Vienna, said Gillie, with an inward groan. Frimleigh was a young fool, now gazetted in a cavalry regiment, whom he had no desire to re-encounter.

Trelfer – Nottinge – Taskerville – the Coombes – I do not know who else.

Not Blatchett and his leech?

Steenie shook his head. Elkington never could stand Blatchett and Bertie gives him out very pleased at this opportunity to convey the cut.

Gillie sighed. Well, I suppose 'tis only civil to accept.

Steenie left in high spirits.

This was an interesting invitation. Here there were three at least of the victims of the extortionist – Nottinge because of his eccentric dressing habits – Taskerville on account of certain letters from Lady Whibsall – Mrs Coombe, he collected, was the lady obliged to pawn certain family jewels to cover her losses at Lady Venchall’s card-parties –

He fancied the delicate hand of Sir Vernon was in it somewhere. Dared say had been at Winchester with Elkington’s father – or played cricket with him – or some such – mayhap some family connexion –

Well, he should see what he should see.

Perchance it had nothing whatsoever to do with Sir Vernon, he thought, when Elkington came up to him remarking that he had some conceit of himself as a fencer, but would be entire honoured to try a pass or two with such a renowned swordsman as Lord Gilbert.

And really, Elkington was by no means inept with a rapier, but Gillie had a reputation to maintain, though went a little easier on him than he might have done.

Felt obliged to recount the tales of his exploits with Magyar Hussars and Cossacks – Elkington sighed and said had been still quite young when was sent on his Grand Tour – the most tiresome prig of a bear-leader – prosing on about historical sights – entirely tedious –

Over the next couple of days, the conversation took another turn that gave Gillie to suppose Elkington had his own motives for the invitation. That very fine young woman, Lady Isabella. One supposed that His Grace had had approaches –

Gillie grinned and said that having been out of the country since Bella was a chit still in the schoolroom, knew very little about how matters went there. O, yes, she was quite recovered from the chill she took after that very rash endeavour of Blatchett’s – indeed she was a fine healthy creature –

He apprehended that Elkington took his hoyden little sister in considerable admiration, and that this was not just a question of counting up her points of eligibility!

And does not simper and titter –

For as Steenie had gloomily observed on their arrival, there is Trelfer’s giggling ninny of a sister, that has the emptiest head in all of Society. At least we are safe from her wiles – unless she hopes we might establish her interest with Essie –

Gillie, however, wondered about Lady Gabrielle Mallafrey. Did she not somewhat over-act the simpleton? He thought that once or twice he had caught a certain slyness in her expression. But indeed, had one heard the womenfolk in one’s family and friends expatiate upon the Marriage Market, one conceived that a young woman might fly a deceptive flag to catch an offer, since too many men seemed to find silliness in a woman positively charming. When allied to what he supposed were acceptable looks.

Over cards that evening he looked around the table. Frimleigh, that spoke in the affected style common to cavalry officers, and kept his distance from Gillie. Nottinge, with those very splendid whiskers, must make quite the bearded lady when he donned a dress. Phineas Taskerville trying not to gaze in the direction of Lady Whibsall, that was seated at an embroidery frame while Sir Francis was at the card-table. Mrs Coombe was a surprisingly competent player, that gave him to wonder about how straight the play was at Lady Venchall’s little gatherings. Trelfer, that had assured Gillie that he did not blame him for Lady Leah’s defection, could see that Lord Gilbert had done nothing to encourage her, but would then go sigh a great deal over the lady, to whom he was still devoted.

There were others in the company whom he still had to sound out.

Somebody in the party, however, was the extortionist, or in the plot. For Gillie found that those incriminating items with which Sir Vernon had supplied him, had disappeared from the place – concealed, but not too concealed – where they had been amongst his things.

The next move, he supposed, would be the note of ransom.

He was not sure how he could come at seeing how that was placed.

The following afternoon 'twas a fine sunny day and most of the party were about the gardens, that were displaying to great advantage. Several of the gentlemen had repaired to the bowling green, that was in a most excellent state, and there was already money being laid.

Gillie had not precisely sneered at this recreation but had contrived to let the company suppose that for him 'twas a very tame sport.

Tea, he fancied, would shortly be brought out –

He caught, from the corner of his eye, the sight of the edge of a skirt whisking into the concealment of the shrubbery. Casting his eyes about the assembly, he found that was not, as had immediately suspected, Lady Whibsall, seeing her husband entirely engrossed in bowls, at which he had a fine conceit of himself and the twist in his wrist, sneaking off to an assignation with Feckless Phineas. No, Lady Whibsall and Mrs Coombe, that had become quite sworn sisters these past days, were sitting on a rustic seat and deep in gossiping upon their respective nurseries.

Gillie, yawning, drifted into the shrubbery himself and soon came to observe a female figure, moving very surreptitious towards a back door of the house. He followed.

Was that really Lady Gabrielle? Could it be that she was about an assignation? For surely, was it a matter of having the headache or such would have informed the entire company before withdrawing.

He still pursued.

To the wing in which the guests were housed.

The corridor on which his chamber was situated –

And, by God, that was where she was bound.

He silently followed her in and observed her about inserting a note into the place where the quack’s letter and pamphlet had been concealed.

He closed and locked the door, and cleared his throat.

Lady Gabrielle started, turning around, colour rising in her cheeks. Lord Gilbert!

Lady Gabrielle. He strode across the chamber and took the hand with the note in it. A billet-doux? But how charming – I had no suspicion –

He plucked it out of her trembling fingers and unfolded it. Ah.

It was the handwriting familiar from the notes of demand he had already had sight of.

He looked at the lady. All affectation was gone.

Why, he asked, are you doing this? Is somebody making you?

Lady Gabrielle plumped down on the edge of the bed and burst into tears – no matter of pretty beguiling drops but racking sobs and blubbered face. Gillie handed her a handkerchief.

Eventually she handed the sodden thing back, looked up at him and said, for my daughter.

Your daughter?

Another tempest threatened. At length she said, I have a daughter – Fleurette – seven years old – living in Brittany with my former governess, Mme Huguet –

Gillie, feeling as if he had been punched in the stomach, sat down himself.

The tale came out. Some eight years ago, before their father had died, the Mallafreys had been staying with their grandfather Lord Emberry. That in those days had not been quite so much of a recluse as he had latterly become, so there were some several other guests.

And one night there was an old man came into my bed and told me to keep quiet and hurt me – and that I was not to tell. And some months later Mme Huguet noticed things, and informed Mama, and so I went to Brittany with Mme Huguet, give out for my health and so that I could improve my French –

– and before Mama died she arranged to send money to Mme Huguet to keep Fleurette, and I try to go see her when I can but I am penniless, and now she grows such a great girl the expenses are more, and we do not want to put her into an orphanage –

She put her face into her hands. Do I marry I will have a settlement I daresay, but what can I do?

Gillie patted her shoulder and said, he saw that she was in a desperate hard position, but was not confident that putting other people in fear of disclosure of their secrets was a proper course. Let him think upon the matter.

What he thought was, Lady Bexbury.

Beth Ollifaunt went over to the window, to peer out upon the very pretty sight of Highgate – sure, Chloe had writ in her letters that 'twas entire a village upon the northern heights above Town – a deal of woods about, and 'twas no distance at all to the famed Hampstead Heath – and yet no trouble at all to get into Town, there were omnibuses –

O, this was an adventure! Mama had come to Beth upon her return from school remarking that the house was going to be a-bustle with election matters, very tiresome – the boys were not coming home yet from Meg’s – dear Agnes Lucas had offered that she might send the little ones to the rectory, quite the kindest thing – and here was Chloe suggesting that would it not be a prime thing for Beth to come stay with the Lowndes, that extended the warmest invitation, that she enclosed?

Well! One saw that poor Papa would be entire preoccupied over the business, and Mama sighed and said, election or not, the theatres still had to be managed, and likewise the manufactory –

A tap on the door and came in Chloe.

La, little sister, not properly unpacked yet?

Beth jumped. O, just, what is the phrase? orienting myself.

Chloe grinned and came over to point out various sights of interest. Then began to assist in the task of putting away things in the various presses, that smelt agreeably of lavender and cedarwood, whilst gossiping of family matters.

 This done, Chloe plumped down to sit upon the bed and pulled Beth down beside her. You know, of course, why Mama thinks it entirely best to have you away from Ollifaunt Hall?

Beth shook her head.

La, said her sister with a grin, 'tis because there will be a deal of tiresome old chaps about the place –

I know that!

– and you are just at that age when tiresome old chaps will go be about pinching cheeks and chucking under chins and maybe proceed to bestowing an uncle-some kiss or so, the wretched creatures, and during an election 'tis obligatory to be tactful to 'em and not stamp on their foot or thrust an elbow into their ribs –

Horrid beasts!

Chloe sighed. 'Tis not the like of a cricketing-party, when they may be asked to leave. No, in the interests of the nation, Mama and Papa must be civil. So go about to remove temptation. Well, my pet, now that I have conveyed you that enlightenment –

That certainly made Beth to consider over the behaviour of certain country neighbours!

– let us to the more agreeable task of going make civil to the Lowndes.

Sure 'twas some time since she had been in company with the Lowndes offspring – la, before the Ollifaunts had made their family voyage to the antipodes! – so was somewhat of a matter of becoming reacquainted.

And what she observed – mayhap had been too young to apprehend before? – was that, did the young Ollifaunts make a deal of theatre and plays, the young Lowndes were engaged in making family newspapers and magazines, and even had a small printing-press! Vaisey – Gervase – was editor-in-chief – now that Ferry goes to the college in Gower Street and also starts to learn the business – and his sisters Ella and Bessie and Alexi were the reporters – and Ella quite immediate began to quiz Beth so that she might write her up –

And Bessie offered that they might like to partake of their astronomical observations, for they had a very fine telescope mounted in an attic – for of course Mama is very noted for her pieces on what to look for in the skies –

And o, but they must have seen the Southern Cross!

There was lemonade brought – much nicer at this time o’year than tea – and cakes – and then, o, it was the most exceeding thing! a caller was announced and it was Uncle Josh!

That was quite the favourite of their uncles, even when he did not come bearing the offering of a visit to the Zoological Gardens. Even Chloe became most thrilled at this prospect, for being a Fellow of the Zoological Society, Uncle Josh had the entrée to places that the common public never saw.

Oh, there were a deal of excursions! There was going over to Highbury, where her brothers were staying with Auntie Meg, and seeing how they were and exchanging news, as well as reacquainting herself with the Knowles cousins. And there were Rosina and Elvira that took an opportunity to interrogate her a little in private over the Miss Barnards’ school – for they had a governess, and an array of visiting music teachers, and 'twas all very well, but here is Mama goes talk very fondly of her schooldays, and we wonder should we go petition to be sent there –

I daresay, sighed Elvira, we might keep up at least some of our music –

We have no complaints of Miss Hartingale, said Rosina, not precisely, but she seems entire delighted now that Frank is of an age for the schoolroom –

So Beth went boast a little upon the school, that was by no means about ladylike accomplishments but sound mental training, and was there girls wished to proceed to studying the classics or the higher mathematics, why, that could be arranged, just like drawing-lessons &C. They made envious groans.

There was also going to visit Uncle Quintus and Auntie Sukey that lived right in the centre of Town, just north of the bustle of Oxford Street – 'tis the coming-up area for the medical profession – and see how her rooftop garden came on.

It was a little of a disappointment that because Uncle Harry was obliged to go to Firlbrough about election matters they could not take a jaunt out to Blackheath.

But there were visits to the sights – to the theatre – and quite ecstasy! to call upon Miss Addington in her dressing-room – to the shops – O! so much that one might buy did one have the money!

One afternoon they were having a quiet day, and Beth was about inditing a letter to her parents when a caller was announced. They all looked up a little put about, for all had settled to various pursuits – writing up the family newspaper &C that had been a little neglected in the whirl of dissipation – but the mood entire changed when came in to the parlour Lady Bexbury.

She went over to kiss Beth and to apologize for not coming to welcome her to Town before – had to go into the country about various tiresome matters – but to make up for this neglect, why do you not come pass a few nights with me?

O, it surpassed everything! To be a guest in Auntie – great-aunt, she supposed – Clorinda’s pretty Mayfair house – so close to the Park – the fascinating bustle of the mews –

She looked at Chloe and Chloe nodded.

O, quite more than she could have hoped! And just mayhap, she could ask Auntie Clorinda about certain matters that she was anxious to do, but was not at all sure how to encompass.

That very nice woman,  the mother of her brothers’ friend Walter Frinton, had not only give her very good advice on how to arrange her collection of playbills, but had subsequently sent Beth the most elegant set of portfolios in which to keep 'em – 'tis a line this stationery company in which I have an interest is bringing out. And Beth wanted to know was there some way she might show her gratitude.

Auntie Clorinda thought this entirely proper – now, what you might give her, that is most out of the common, would be a couple of pots of Euphemia’s very exclusive preserves, that are not manufactured by Roberts and Wilson because the ingredients are rare – that only a favoured few are given – pineapple and ginger, and mulberry –

Then Leda Hacker said, how might it be that she took Beth a visit to the Johnson Agency? – after she had near expired with delight, Beth acceded to this charming plan.

Was introduced to Mr Johnson himself! that made most exceeding civil – and then was took to the filing-room, where Miss Frinton ruled, and they found her busy with Dickie Smith explaining the system –

Beth was in the greatest envy of Dickie Smith, that could not be that much older than she was, and employed in the agency. Miss Hacker beckoned him out, and Beth made a bob to Miss Frinton and said, was most exceeding grateful for those fine portfolios – the very thing for her playbill collection – and hoped Miss Frinton might like these exclusive jams –

Miss Frinton, colouring a little, declared that that was quite the kindest thing – she and Walter and her mother would greatly relish 'em – and mayhap Miss Elizabeth would care to see somewhat of her records?

Oh, bliss! Very educational instructive, and 'twas a delight to talk to one that had such very fine notions about keeping records, and about stationery, and oh, she did hope that once this tedious business of the election was done, Mama and Papa would invite the Frintons to Ollifaunt Hall again. Miss Frinton asked most proper about the family and their doings – heard somewhat from Walter of course –

Came in Leda Hacker with tea and biscuits.

O, cried Beth, la, I have stayed far too long – kept you from business –

They assured her 'twas a pleasure to have her company and to take tea afore departing.

The thing she had hardly dared to hope for – that she might go visit the famed actor Hywel Jenkins – Lady Bexbury took quite easily. La, I visit the poor fellow – you know he is now an invalid? – every month or so, convey him treats –

Here they were, a little out of Town – he was sitting by the window, and even now though he must be quite old, one might see why Mama remarked that he was quite the handsomest man she had ever set eyes upon –

And Beth recounted the family tale of being the Roman mob while he declaimed Friends, Romans and countrymen from the Raxdell House staircase.

So he turned a little, and smiled, saying, today was one of his better days, and gave the speech.

It was glorious.

O, Hywel! cried Auntie Clorinda with a little sob in her voice, then blowing her nose.

Humphrey Thornton could sometimes hardly believe he was not dreaming. After a fortnight or so being congratulated in the bosom of his family and shown about the locality to be boasted upon, had proceeded to Yeomans. For they had said that even though 'twas somewhat of a holiday for the children during the summer months, one should not lose all discipline and 'twould be in order to keep up the habit of a few lessons – and there was also Miss Roberts putting him in the way of literary work – reviews &C – and he would be earning, that was a consideration for the son of a country doctor, that had made his way through Oxford on scholarships and prizes.

His father had enquired, was Miss Ferraby any connection of the physician of that name? – he was her brother? – and the famed explorer and zoologist was another of her brothers? – and Miss Roberts was the sister of that noted botanist? One had quite the greatest confidence in such an establishment.

And, Humphrey had been moved to add, the famed Mrs Veriker is part of the household and eminent savants come call upon her.

So here he was, at this beautiful mansion with its well-kept gardens and charming small park and feeling as if he were in some fairytale, and did he pluck a flower from the wrong bush, or ask the wrong question, there would be a clap of thunder, and he would find himself alone in a howling desert.

The orphans such lively yet well-mannered children – not all, he apprehended, entirely orphaned, Jamie’s father being in the Americas, Theo the son of Ellen, the governess, and one apprehended that little Hari was the offspring of some connexion of the Dowager Duchess of Humpleforth in Bombay, that she was having brought up and educated in England. The rudiments of education already well-established by Ellen – Mrs Marshall – along the principles Miss Ferraby proclaimed.

Mrs Veriker quite the most wonderful of women – as he had told his father, much visited by other botanists, and with an extensive correspondence but also, as Verrie, a beloved honorary grandmother to the children.

Miss Ferraby a little frightening – Hannah Roberts also somewhat daunting, but already becoming the most helpful of mentors in the matter of literary life – must, she said, bring you along to the Lowndes Sunday literary teas – a little quiet at present of course –

He was like to expire with ecstasy – the Lowndes literary teas!

And he was not the only one of their set that found his place in pleasant pastures. While one did not suppose St Wilfrid’s East End parish quite met that description, Wood’s letters therefrom were entirely enthusiastic – work to one’s hand – what an excellent shepherd to his flock is Lucas – what a fine helpmeet is Lady Agatha –

Smithers ensconced in lodgings near the Temple in the anticipation of pupillage with Geoffrey Merrett, that acclaimed barrister, when the law-term opened, and meanwhile provided with work in the form of copying and devilling.

Averdale finding that his duties as secretary to Lord Trembourne came to encompass a great deal he had not expected – matters all round having been sadly neglected under the father in spite of the efforts of Lady Undersedge – but sounded to be enjoying himself.

Shallock, one feared, did not find his lot quite so agreeable – a deal of dreary matters to do with now being the heir – though, he wrote, at least being in mourning precluded any possibility of immediate hunt for an eligible bride, although he was already, one could only say, being shown the studbook.

Humphrey shook his head. Though, the thought struck him, here was his brother, courting a young lady from another medical family, all considered this a very eligible connexion, a most prudent match. Much about the same thing, he supposed. Had there not been somewhat of a flirtation with one of their sister’s friends, that was bound for a governess?

He passed the very fine taxidermied wombatt, that was the like of a household god to the children, that they swore on, descended the stairs, and entered the parlour, where Miranda was instructing Hari in the names of the ivory elephants.

Oh! Humphrey bowed deeply, blushing. The Dowager Duchess of Humpleforth was seated in one of the easy chairs, looking on with amuzement.

She rose and shook his hand. Mr Thornton, well met. Archie – South Worpley – desired me to convey to you this – she took an envelope from her reticule – inviting you to Maraston Towers to convoke about butterflies. As the Towers will be entirely crowded with the Duke’s political set, Archie and his friends are joining my little party in the Dower House –

Humphrey gulped and stammered a very grateful acceptance – would go write at once – how exceeding civil – he and Mrs Veriker had already had some notions about a butterfly garden –

She gave him an enchanting smile. Darling Verrie – I must go see her – I hope she is flourishing?

So, here he was, feeling very much beyond his depth, descending from the trap that had been sent to collect him from the nearest station, at the handsome portico to the Maraston Towers Dower House. That would have seemed daunting enough, but then one saw Maraston Towers itself looming and casting its shadow.

His modest luggage being taken care of – the door opening – bouncing forth therefrom a – one supposed that was one of Her Grace’s mongeese – mongooses? – that came to investigate what was ado, sniffing about his feet and offering to climb up his leg. Came out, past the somewhat flustered butler, Mr Josiah Ferraby, grinning broadly.

He stooped down to pick up the mongoose. Mr Thornton! We met at Lady Bexbury’s. Do you come in and take tea while I go find some secure place for this truant. I hope you left my little sister in health?

Humphrey mumbled something civil, and agreed that he had left Miss Ferraby in quite flourishing condition.

There was a rather terrifying deal of company in the drawing-room, though when he was capable of more sober reflection he realized that there could not be above a dozen individuals at most there, including the Dowager Duchess herself, Lord South Worpley, that handsome young black harpist Lydia Marshall, and others he did not know.

After he had made his bow to Her Grace – and desired not to stand upon ceremony, this was Liberty Hall – South Worpley took him about to make introductions, and he was finally provided with a cup of tea, that came very grateful. Presiding over the tea-service was South Worpley’s sister Lady Augusta Dalistet – one saw the resemblance at once. The dullish brown hair – the somewhat protuberant blue eyes – a nose that was, alas, rather unfortunate in a female face –

She determined his preferences in the matter of tea, poured him a cup, and remarked that he must be Worps’ butterfly friend?

Why, said Humphrey, I apprehend we have that interest in common –

She remarked that she was glad that that her brother took up such an attractive topic of study – had heard of fellows that became interested in spiders – she shuddered – and one that he may pursue at home – she cast a glance at Mr Ferraby, that one must fancy was discoursing of his adventures to a fascinated group –

Perhaps not the time to mention Mr Enderby’s account of the quite spectacular appearance of the butterflies he had seen in Brazil!

But I hear you were at Oxford with Lord Peregrine Shallock, that I suppose we must now be titling Talshaw?

Humphrey conceded that he had indeed been at Oxford with Shallock – part of the same set – rather put about that this matter of succession meant that he was obliged to renounce a College fellowship – very clever fellow – did not neglect sporting prowess but did not make an entire cult of it –

It was very similar to when his sisters had heard of some new fellow in the locality and wished to know what he was like!

The following day South Worpley offered that he might care to take a stroll round the menagerie? Humphrey apprehended that Ferraby was purposing taking groups – should not be entire crowds, that will upset the creatures – in the afternoon, and that this private invitation was, perchance, to discuss the butterfly house proposal without interruption.

In fact, he discovered, this was a matter of further interrogation about Shallock – the question a brother might ask about a possible suitor – had his friends not already heard his plaints about the business of matrimony? One must suppose that he was already being measured up by prospective wives, the poor devil.

No, there was no question of any existing attachment – Shallock – Talshaw – had been in the expectation of taking up this Fellowship – had never been in a wild set at Oxford – dedicated to study –

They leant on the fence of the enclosure in which a rather sullen porcupine was resting, failing even to rattle its quills at 'em. South Worpley remarked that of course the new Talshaw would not at present be attending balls and soirées, but he supposed that a fellow of intellectual interests would be going about to lectures &C?

Humphrey agreed that Shallock was in the greatest anticipation of drinking in the wisdom displayed at antiquarian and archaeological societies, expatiating a little upon the dig in progress at Worblewood – also fancied that the occasional private music party could not be objectionable – his sister Lady Lucretia Grigson quite the greatest friend of Lady Rondegate, that one heard much acclaimed for her talents –

They walked on a little to a paddock where a few goat-like creatures were nibbling at the grass.

South Worpley gave a deep sigh and enquired whether Thornton found women a great mystery?

Humphrey, that had sisters, female cousins, and was also acquainted with their friends, and was now surrounded by the Ladies of Yeomans, did not think that the female sex was really such an obscure matter, but made a sympathetic noise.

This led His Lordship to disclose his troubles with Lady Inez Offgrange, that had seemed so perfectly eligible, the most serious and sensible of creatures, devoted to botany – one had the encouraging example of her sister Lady Rollo Beaufoyle – wonderful looks, the finest dancer –

Goes be quite besotted with Gillie Beaufoyle –

Humphrey apprehended that South Worpley found himself in need of a confidant – he doubted that he would have any profound advice to give, but mayhap could provide a sympathetic ear.

It was really rather hard to mourn Talshaw, his sister Cretia – Lady Lucretia Grigson – thought. He had not been an amiable elder brother – somewhat of a bully and ever standing on his position as heir – and they had seen little enough of him during their childhood as he was about the education proper to his station. So he was no great loss – whereas she felt she would have been saddened had it been Grinnie or Lucie. But furthermore, being in mourning was quite the greatest bore – so many things she might not do – obliged to wear black, that did not suit her in the least –

Though she must admit, she was not missing a deal of glittering social occasions at present, since so much of Society had gone out of Town to be about election matters, so she did not have to read accounts of balls and soirées &C with pangs of envy.

But also a deal of philanthropic activity was not occurring, with such leading figures as Dumpling Dora – Lady Pockinford – gone into the country to their husbands’ estates – so there were no drawing-room meetings or fancy bazaars that only the most exceeding strict could deem unsuitable for a lady in mourning to attend. One lady remaining in Town was Rachel Demington – her husband was travelling about the country in order to address meetings upon agricultural matters connected with the election – and she was arranging working-parties to prepare for the Seamstresses’ Summer Workshops. So Cretia might go to those, and feel she was doing useful work whilst also exchanging gossip with such other ladies as remained.

One could not, of course, go ride in the Row at the fashionable hour! But Vicky Jupp had come to Cretia saying, had gone consult Lady Jane Knighton on the matter – a lady of the most exacting! – that had said she could not see any objection to riding at a quieter time o’day in one of the less-frequented parts of the Park – had done the like on Queen Maud, that Lady Bexbury had very kindly kept in her stables, during her mourning year for the late Admiral – take a groom or a chaperone –

Oh, Vicky was entirely invaluable! Here she was, went read the classics with Lady Jane, and had thought to enquire about that. Really, she did not know what she would do without Vicky. For being dragged about the Season by her sister Rina – Lady Iffling – had been a very poor guide to the ways of Society, in particular the society she now found herself among. Not Rina’s set of – one could not even call 'em friends, they were ever backbiting and scandalmongering about one another – playing at cards and getting up flirtations –

Rina had been wont to dismiss this set as bluestocking dowds but they were rather more stylish than Rina herself. The Duchess of Mulcaster might understand a deal of very strange tongues and be able to converse with savants but was ever in the crack of fashion. Mrs Geoffrey Merrett went to the college for women in Bloomsbury and was considered an entire leader of style – that, said Vicky, is my sister 'Sina, Miss Thomasine at Mamzelle Bridgette, makes Janey – they were at school together – as it were her flagship.

So interesting! Vicky knew who everybody was, and their relations with one another. She also knew what everybody was talking about, and conveyed this to Cretia so that she did not appear a ninny when these matters came up over the teacups. Advised her on what books to read – marked pieces for her in the newspapers and journals –

And such a horsewoman! Fancied it might have been Lady Bexbury’s notion that 'twould be entire in order, did Cretia take early morning rides in the Park, for Vicky to ride with her. So she took Berenice, and Vicky took Artegall, and one saw that Vicky was the most competent of equestriennes. Vicky, when Cretia commented on this, giggled a little and remarked that when she was younger had had somewhat of an ambition to be a rider at Astley’s – we were all three of us about the stables from when we could crawl –

Imagine! The elegant Miss Thomasine!

So they returned from their ride – indeed, it was much more pleasant at this time o’day rather than the fashionable hour at this season when was so horrid hot and close – and saw their mounts conveyed into the hands of the grooms, and went in to change. Vicky grinned, and said, had no doubt but that Miriam would have a fine substantial snack for 'em in the library, to sustain 'em in discoursing over the day’s business –

Cretia grinned back saying that indeed seemed quite a while since they had breakfasted!

When she was dressed in mourning-dress suited to the hour, she went into the library, and there was Vicky, the secretary rather than the horsewoman, looking at the diary and sorting through the letters on the tray, that must have been delivered while they were out.

Dutifully she opened the missive from Mr Grigson, that was at present staying with his uncle Mr Grilsinger and his mother in Lincolnshire at Carlefour Castle, that they were leasing from Lord Trembourne. Were now quite entirely in local Society, and one apprehended that there was a deal of a desire for balls and dinners at the Castle during the election! Her husband expressed his hopes that she was well, and not finding time hang too heavy – pleased to hear that her acquaintance with their neighbour Lady Rondegate continued to flourish – various news and gossip – &C&C.

Excellent well. She nibbled on a piece of bread pudding, having developed a taste for this somewhat plebian delicacy. One from Mama at Worblewood – entirely good news, Myo in quite the best of health and spirits – they were all becoming archaeologists – Grinnie fancies he may have to come to Town about business, hopes he may beg your hospitality –

A scrawl from Rina, that must be rather discontent to have Iffling back at Anclewer.

She put the letters down. Vicky looked up from the letters that were to do with various matters to do with philanthropic enterprizes –

Had a commission from Lady Bexbury –

Lady Bexbury?

– wondered had you ever attended those card-parties Lady Venchall and Mrs Bramby hold?

Cretia groaned. O, I was positively dragged to 'em by Rina – did not play myself, barely had enough pin-money to cover little needful matters – but Rina did, said it was something to relieve the tedium of the days –

So you might have the entrée?

I suppose I might, but they ever struck me as very dull – I suppose mayhap did one play rather than spectate might be different – She wrinkled her nose. O, I daresay these days I can afford it –

Vicky lifted her eyebrows and remarked that indeed, one was a little astonished that there had not been somewhat in the way of exceeding civil invitations! – young woman married to an exceeding wealthy husband – that spends a deal of time about matters of business –

Cretia snorted. Wondered why Lady Bexbury took an interest – mayhap some young friend or relative that had been lured into playing higher than she could cover?

Later that day Cretia dressing in suitable mourning walking dress – lord, she was already entire sick of black! – in order to go parade in the square gardens, very exclusive. As she had hoped, she found there Zipsie Rondegate, that had previously assured her that Dr Ferraby thought that a little pedestrian exercize, providing that there was no noxious fog and the weather fine, was quite the most salutary thing in her condition.

Here was another friendship! Most agreeable to be neighbours, and discover what an amiable creature Zipsie was, when not struck by the nervous shyness that had afflicted her while on the Marriage Market. Married to a very well-looking young husband that appeared to doat upon her – dressed in a style that entirely suited her by Mr Maurice himself – everywhere acclaimed for her music – and now to be already in this happy condition!

They kissed one another on the cheek and enquired after one another’s lawful wedded.

O, Rondegate has gone down to Wepperell Larches – makes a bachelor party of it with Sallington and Julius Roberts and Mr Davison – some notion about gardens though we suppose that the local gentry will say they have ever been thus and so, and go grumble upon all this mania for improvements.

Cretia giggled and said, la, at Carlefour Castle, they just added on some new device as each Lord Ketterwell was struck by something he saw on his Grand Tour, so there is still a quaint knot garden, but also an Italianate garden &C&C, exactly like the house.

Zipsie said gardens were all very fine and well, but must take a deal of keeping up, even did one have gardeners – much preferred having this square to walk in rather than having to contemplate over rosebushes and shrubbery &C, and fret over lawns.

And oh, to grow more serious, have lately had a letter from Granda in Heggleton, goes grumble somewhat about Ollie – for he had quite the greatest notion to a match 'twixt Ollie and Thea, would have done something handsome for 'em – but here is Ollie goes get up a flirtation with an actress – even if 'tis a young lady we knew in childhood.

Cretia exclaimed at that.

O, we did not know 'em well, even though Mr Dalrymple –

Mr Dalrymple, the old quiz?

– the very one – is one of Papa’s oldest friends. But he is not married to Miss Richardson –

– the acclaimed thespian?

– Quite – even though they live exceeding domestic with his mother and her famous pugs and their children. But they were invited to parties at Raxdell House, and we encountered 'em there – sure, Zipsie said with a wistful look, Orlando Richardson had very engaging manners – and here is his sister Rosalind Granda fears has designs on Ollie. Here we thought Ollie was pulling round after that business with the fast set he was in –

But la, I am sudden become entire ravenous! Might we go in and desire tea? I have an immense craving for your Miriam’s lemon cake.

Cretia linked her arm into Zipsie’s and said of course.

Coming in one afternoon, at an hour when he hoped he might avoid tea-table company, he met Mrs Knowles on the stairs on her way out, made civil – for she was not only an excellent musical friend for Zipsie, her husband was a chap that one would very much wish to know better and be on good terms with. Known for quite the soundest advice in financial matters – had saved a deal of his acquaintance from bad investments – very well-connected –

Mrs Knowles smiled at him and said, Lady Rondegate was looking exceeding well, but hoped she was not over-doing – those boisterous sisters of hers were very good-hearted creatures but –

Cecil grinned. Their exuberance can be a little wearing! And this performance for Lady Abertyldd’s birthday makes demands –

Mrs Knowles gave a genteel snort. I apprehend that young Oliver still lingers in Heggleton – was he in Town he might take some of the burden of rehearsals from her –

Why, his grandfather writes that he comes around to showing very responsible over learning about their business, and matters to do with the election.

Her mouth quirked. That is something! – for although Ollie was no longer embroiled with that dangerous fast set had still been something of an idle wastrel about Town – but I must be upon my ways.

Cecil bowed over her hand as they made their farewells. He proceeded to the music-room, that was where he supposed Zipsie would have been entertaining Mrs Knowles.

There was, indeed, evidence of tea and the crumbs of cake!

Zipsie was sat at the pianoforte, picking out a tune – good lord, it was Clo Marshall’s 'Oo does 'e think 'e is?

She turned and smiled. Do you ring for tea, should you care for some – or something stronger, mayhap?

A very small brandy and soda would come very agreeable, he conceded, and went to ring.

When this had come, along with a bowl of smoked nuts, and he had refreshed himself, she swung around on the piano-stool and said that he had found her out in trying to work out one of those very pleasing tunes she had heard him playing when she passed the smoking-room t’other day.

Why, he responded, raising his eyebrows somewhat, 'tis one of Clo Marshall’s songs –

Oh, I have heard so much about those, from Ollie and Folly, but they say very unsuited to ladies’ ears – she snorted in a most unladylike fashion – mayhap the words are vulgar? but the tunes are very clever, I am not at all give to wonder that they are whistled everywhere.

She grinned. La, one is told that the errand-boys in Vienna went about whistling the tunes from Mozart’s operas! There is a deal of nonsense about low taste –

He looked at his wife. There was really something most out of the common about Zipsie. That had ever found conventionality somewhat constraining – one saw that being married and freed from the edicts on the conduct proper to a young lady that had not yet attained that state was most congenial to her –

Why, the words may be somewhat vulgar – in the cant of the lower orders, Cockney – but not in the least coarse – very amuzing – Miss Marshall has a great talent for presenting 'em – fine voice –

Zipsie sighed. I daresay 'twould not be proper to go attend one of her performances?

He considered upon this. My dear, I can see ways that it might be contrived, but as things are at present, fancy 'twould be a little imprudent.

O, entirely, she sighed. That was one of the reasons for Mrs Knowles’ call – to give me the sound advice on the management of my condition that she had had from her mother – has not everybody cried up the late Lady Ferraby to me as the entire paragon in such matters?

The clock chimed.

Fie, I should go dress for dinner! – do you dine at home the e’en?

Indeed I do.

He rang for another small brandy and soda before going to change himself, musing upon whether they should give a dinner-party afore Town was completely deserted – might one invite the Grigsons? Lady Lucretia was in mourning for her brother, that was, it was give out, no great loss, but a quiet dinner party would surely be permissible? The Knowles – unless they were going out of Town to one or other of their family connexion – had he not heard that the Demingtons still lingered? – mayhap the Samuels –

It was a very reassuring sight to observe with what great appetite Zipsie ate her vittles at dinner! He remarked upon this, at which she grinned. Law, do I not feel sick, I am quite ravenous, 'tis one or t’other all day. Either nibbling a little dry toast, or devouring a beefsteak. Mrs Knowles tells me that matters are wont to regularize in due course, that I am glad to hear.

That minded him that she had said that there was another reason for Mrs Knowles’ call – I hope, my dear, that is she soliciting you to perform at her musical soirées, you will not be overdoing –

O, she did mention that, mayhap, when Society finally returns to Town, and I will be feeling more the thing, that would be on the cards, but what she was concerned about was Thea –

Thea?

This matter of Miss Billston’s songs of Sappho, that are indeed quite exquisite, and that are entirely suited to Thea’s voice, but Mrs Knowles came about to apologize for being pressing on the matter, and hopes has not embarrassed Thea, knowing how very strict Lord Pockinford’s views are, and Sappho not only being a pagan poetess, but noted for her passionate devotion to women.

Cecil blinked.

Alas, she says, here we were, brought up in the Raxdell House Phalanstery, acquired rather broader notions concerning who might rightly love who – observed fine examples of female devotion –

What?

Zipsie looked at him. Why, there are Miss McKeown and Miss Lewis, have been the dearest of friends this entire age – Lady Jane Knighton’s fine affection to Miss Addington – the Ladies of Attervale and of Yeomans – and she told me, there was quite the deepest devotion 'twixt the late Lady Ferraby and Dowager Lady Bexbury.

Is it not give out they were related?

O, beyond any mere feeling for kindred! But, alas, there is Lord Pockinford, that speaks out against sisterhoods, that seem a very sensible solution for ladies that do not marry, and would one fears feel the same about ladies that find mutual society, help, and comfort with one another rather than a husband.

Cecil stared at his wife. This was quite the revelation, both about these happy female couples, and Zipsie’s entirely commonsensical feelings about 'em.

He gulped. I have observed, he said at length, that there may be similar devotions between men….

'Tis indeed rumoured, said Zipsie, but does one mention it one is cautioned not to speak thus, because of the injustices of the law.

She fell silent, frowning. After some minutes, she said, I have observed that you and Mr Davison sort exceeding well together – come about on excellent terms – fine manly friendship?

Cecil looked across the table at her and then down at his hands. He swallowed. Indeed I come into a more than usual, one may only call it fondness for him, and he to me. But – he also greatly likes you – and we would not for the world do anything you liked not, Zipsie –

She paused again, arranging the orange peel on her plate into patterns. After a considerable while she cleared her throat and began, sure I have found marriage a great deal more agreeable than I anticipated, and you far exceed my expectations in a husband! Very much was, o, this is a thing I am obliged to do. But –

She blushed. I was talking once to Aunty Dodo, when I was somewhat younger, and said it must be a fine thing to marry a musician – I had something of a girlish admiration then for Uncle Casimir – and she sighed, and said, music can be a demanding mistress and then put her hand to her mouth and begged me not to disclose what she had said to Mama. But while I may not be a composer to compare with Uncle Casimir, nonetheless, I am, I find, a musician.

And there was a conversation I had lately with Mrs Lucas, that happened to remark that she kept a space in her life for poetry – there she is, the fondest of wives and mothers, doatingest of grandmothers, &C – said that as she went about her day kept by her ivory tablets to jot down lines or thoughts she had, for such time as she might give her mind to composition.

So while I do not think I will ever become one of those ladies that goes dally with gentlemen that are not my lawful wedded husband, there is something that is a passion – that I fancy might at times preoccupy me in ways that some husbands might resent, for whom one is supposed to forsake all others, and I daresay that would include the muses.

Also, she said with a grin, there is Mr Davison has that very snug fellowship at Oxford, 'tis not the like of setting up some Miss in a villa in St John’s Wood like Lord Iffling and decking her with jewellery. She giggled at his expression. La, Lady Lucretia disclosed to me certain family matters over the teacups one day.

Zipsie, said Cecil, you are quite magnificent and a paragon amongst womankind. And, he thought with an inward grin, as well as a fine musician, the grand-daughter of Sir Oliver Brumpage, he had noted that when she was about the household books!

Zipsie wrinkled her nose and said, she fancied she was what they deemed an odd specimen.

He opened to her the project of going to Wepperell Larches – bachelor party including Sallington and Julius Roberts – giving it out that I have some notion to making a Persian garden –

She raised her eyebrows. Then said that 'twould certainly look somewhat less particular. And minded that they, too, were bred in the Raxdell House Phalanstery.

So delightful to be going out of Town to dear Worblewood! thought Myo – Hermione, now Countess of Trembourne. Oh, there had been a deal of fuss and bother as to whether 'twas prudent for her to undertake the journey in her condition, but as ever, Dr Ferraby had been entire soothing – the good roads there were these days – modern fine-sprung carriages – 'tis not the old tale of being jolted and tossed from side to side – almost as smooth as taking the railway – providing due care is taken –

So due care was taken and they proceeded at a very cautious pace and there was no matter of being tossed about. Indeed, so calm was the entire proceeding that dear Nora looked a deal less pale and sickly than she usually did when traveling.

Sure they would be quite the party at Worblewood! Jimsie and herself – darling Mama – Nora her sister-in-law, Lady Eleanor Upweston, in mourning for her late father – her brother Grinnie, Lord Peregrine, that she supposed they should get into the practise of calling Talshaw? now he was heir – once their school-terms were over, her younger brother Lord Lucius – Lucie – and Jimsie’s brother Lewis – and they were in anticipation of a visit from that agreeable Yorkshireman and archaeologist Mr Chilfer, with the prospect of digging in the field where it was believed there might be a Roman villa lying beneath.

While Surgeon-Major Hicks would be calling from time to time, to see how she did with the exercizes he had prescribed for her lame leg, and she fancied Lucie and Lewis would quite badger him for tales of the campaigns in the Punjaub – Hicks would oft declare his admiration for the Sikhs, first-rate fighting men, and 'tis a very admirable religion they follow –

Mr Averdale, that would be coming for a probationary period as Jimsie’s secretary, a thing sorely needed. Having left Oxford loaded with academic honours, to hear Grinnie tell it, had gone be admired in the bosom of his family for a little while before he came to Worblewood.

But Myo had quite the greatest confidence in the Tilburys, that were butler and housekeeper, to have everything in the way of bedchambers and sitting-rooms &C already well under hand, while Mrs Apcott, she fancied, would quite delight in feeding a pack of hungry young men!

It was a considerable relief, she must inwardly confess to herself, that being in mourning for her late elder brother she might eschew a deal of going about in local society. Jimsie, in spite of being in mourning himself for the late Earl, would be obliged to go about somewhat, in particular with the election impending. But she might lead a pleasant quiet life in a place that was very dear to her heart – walk a little in the grounds – consider upon the gardens –

Doubtless her father, Lord Saythingport, would be entertaining the local Tory interest at Roughton Arching, that marched with Worblewood, but indeed, her condition – Jimsie’s mourning – would preclude having to have much to do with 'em – Jimsie was very much a recruit to the Mulcaster set, that were radical even among the Whigs!

So here they were, already entirely comfortably settled – Mama had a sitting-room of her own but chose mostly to sit in Myo’s lovely Dutch parlour with its view to the gardens, and while they had picked out a fine light upper room for Nora to be at her lace-making, she found that Myo’s parlour was entirely eligible to the purpose! –

Jimsie went have serious convocation with the steward, and the keeper, &C.

And, such a pleasure! Here was one of the Roughton Arching carriages drew up, gave them a little pause – but down stepped Grinnie, in mourning of course, and Tilbury bustling about instructing the men where to take the trunks –

Grinnie kissed his mother and Myo, bowed very elegant over Nora’s hand, shook Jimsie’s hand, and they drew him into the house.

Lord, this is a deal better! he said, looking around. Had to go do the proper thing and be received as heir – introduced about Father’s set, what a tedious crowd they are – Sir Robert Peel is the very devil to 'em, worse than Russell – at least they did not have their daughters with 'em, 'twas a bachelor party, but there was a deal of discourse of the young ladies –

They came to the Dutch parlour, where by some positive alchemy coffee had already appeared.

That is being somewhat vulgar beforehand, Mama remarked.

Grinnie snorted as he sat down and accepted a cup. O, Father has been exhorting me on the importance of matrimony and the wise choice of a spouse – and how to weigh the several factors of breeding, or interest, or a fine portion – 'tis enough to make a fellow declare himself an admirer of Newman, but to fancy he did not go far enough and become a monk.

Really, Grinnie! said Mama, smiling. Or mayhap that Mr Grigson could put you in way of some very wealthy Celestial lady with exceeding tiny feet?

Grinnie blushed a little as they all laughed. Or perchance, he went on, that one had been converted to the views of Miss Ferraby – but anyway, I have conceded that I will think upon the matter.

They all agreed that there was no harm in thinking on the question – and, Nora ventured, reading over the form of matrimony in the Prayerbook as to what marriage should be, thought those words very beautiful. She then mumbled into a confused blush.

Myo was rather glad that Lucie had not yet joined the party, for was still given to schoolboy humour and would, she feared, have been like to suggest a deal of unlikely ladies as potential brides.

A few days later Mr Averdale arrived, followed shortly by Lucie and Lewis, and then Mr Chilfer.

Such an agreeable man! thought Myo. Nothing of the coarse or encroaching about his manners – one apprehended that he was entire welcomed by those that had antient ruins on their estates to assist at the diggings, in Yorkshire and elsewhere, had acquired a deal of polish or mayhap 'twas native good breeding.

Became quite the greatest favourite of Lucie and Lewis, that even abandoned the trout-stream in order to participate in the excavation – that they were exhorted to undertake very gentle and careful – while he and Grinnie had the most scholarly discourse concerning the Roman occupation and its withdrawal from the shores of Britannia. While Grinnie confided his regret at having to renounce his Oxford fellowship, Chilfer declared that one might do a deal of fine work outside college walls, mentioning certain names.

While Jimsie and Averdale were most exceeding conscientious about getting affairs in order, they too would stroll out to the field to see how matters went – for there had been finds, mostly pieces of pottery, but also a coin or two, that was deemed very encouraging.

One afternoon they had all come indoors to the parlour for tea, as rain showers threatened. Tilbury came in with his card-tray, saying, with a very blank expression, that two ladies had come to call, was Lady Trembourne at home?

They hardly needed to look at the cards to guess that here was Dowager Lady Balstrup – one dared suppose the other lady was La Signora Umberti – returned to Attings from her travels about the country and going to and fro among her neighbours to see what was the news with them.

So they came in, and introductions were made.

Mr Chilfer enquired was La Signora any connexion of the late scholar and patriot, Il Professore Umberti? Had quite religiously read his writings – even managed to make his way through the ones writ in his native tongue with the aid of a dictionary –

La Signora with a slight tearful choke admitted that she was the widow of the late Professore and recounted the tale of their exile following the events of '30.

That had been very fine in the late Lord Raxdell! exclaimed Chilfer – La Signora added testimony to the generosity of the Dowager Marchioness of Bexbury –

That would be the widow of the antiquarian? – La Signora nodded, and mentioned that she had been most conscientious about placing his collections in the British Museum – had read his writings. Greatly inspired by them and those of Il Professore with the greatest longing to go visit those parts – but alas, the cares of business – mayhap, someday, when he could confide the papermill to his son’s hands –

La Signora declared that did he purpose such an excursion, she was still able to provide letters of introduction – had recently done the like for her former pupil Emmy Reveley, now Mrs di Serrante –

As the company desired to know had she lately had any news from the di Serrantes at Naples, came in Averdale, that looked somewhat taken aback. Introductions were made and Lady B, as was her wont, immediately started interrogating him about his family. La, it turned out that the Averdales, country squires in a very modest way in Staffordshire, could by some means be shown to have some remote connexion to the Balstrups. Mama smirked and leaned over to murmur on Myo’s ear that sure the College of Heralds ought to consult with Lady B whenever they were about making up pedigrees!

When he was finally released to be made known to La Signora, he apologized for not being able to address her in Italian – I am able to read it, but alas, have not had any instruction in speaking that tongue.

Lady Balstrup intervened to say that she had learnt Italian, along with French and German, as a girl, and now she and Signora recreated themselves with reading to one another in those tongues, and sure they would be delighted should any of the Worblewood party care to join 'em.

Mr Averdale looked very longing.

Myo sat up a little and said, sure they were very took up with this excavation – when the weather was a little finer the ladies should come see how it went – and of course her husband Lord Trembourne and Mr Averdale were very busy with the cares of the estate –

Lady B looked knowing, for the late Earl’s lack of attention to business while spending a great deal on quacks and spaws was common gossip.

– but sure it could only be beneficial to have a little rational recreation as a break from those labours.

Grinnie reached over and squeezed her hand. 'Tis an excellent argument. I will go put it to your husband.

How very thoughtful of Grinnie. Really, he became so quietly confident – so responsible – in all things so unlike their deceased brother.

It was very gratifying, Julius Roberts considered, to be warmly welcomed entirely in the capacity of an esteemed fellow scientist at the Oxford Botanic Garden! For although he had made some several visits to Oxford over the years – been desired to look over various College gardens – perchance examine some manuscript account compiled by a Fellow in past time – he had ever had a somewhat uneasy feeling that he owed that hospitality to the connexions made by way of the club for fellows of the disposition in Town. And mayhap because he was known a close friend of Beauf – Lord Sallington!

But it was very pleasant to talk botany and plants and hothouses and this fine matter of bringing a historic garden into more modern ways and not to feel that his interlocutors’ thoughts were also upon his lovely dusky arse. Sure Chumball, and others of his set, never went be encroaching, but one could not ignore that there was a certain yearning in the air!

It was also agreeable to be away from the purlieux of Nitherholme and Fendersham Hall. It had been tiresome enough when Drew Fendersham and his cronies had been quite running wild about the countryside with their hound-trails and other pursuits – there had even been a midnight steeplechase or two, one was exceedingly relieved that there had been no broken necks. But now Lord Fendersham himself had returned – Elthorne, the hermit of the moors, that had at one time had a classical education, had chuckled and remarked, did not one mind upon Odysseus expelling the suitors from Ithaca?

While there was also an anticipation that Beauf would shortly be coming to Nitherholme: 'twould doubtless be a family party, with his father the Duke and very like his stepmother and assorted brothers, to support the Whig interest about the place.

Indeed, the place became a little desolate, not only lacking Beauf’s company while he was in Town about being a dutiful son and elder brother, but now that Polly Fendersham had finally left for Peru. He had been a little tempted himself to that jaunt – fancied that the Spanish Americas were a deal less perilous for one with some degree of African ancestry than the United States! – had read fascinating stories in Lord Offgrange’s account of his travels there – but he had work upon hand with his botanical study of the moors –

Besides, 'twould mean a deal of a long while parted from Beauf.

Julius smiled to himself. He would be going to Town, and while he would be staying with his parents, there would be opportunities to meet, even with all this bustling upheaval over the impending election. Especially as he apprehended that Lady Isabella was still recruiting in the country and thus not requiring to be squired around the events of the Season by an elder brother.

Hulloa! Roberts! I did not know you were in Oxford.

Julius blinked and emerged from his brown study, to observe Cuthbert Davison.

Davison! How d’you do? Have just been having a fine convocation at the Botanic Garden.

Ah, one might anticipate they would be glad to draw upon your understandings of plants! – do you stay long in Oxford?

No – go up to Town tomorrow, to assure m’mother the famed Seraphine that I am still in life and health, and not being starved by Mrs Dunstall. But what are you about these days?

Davison glanced from side to side. Why, I have a deal to tell you. How should it be, did I get my college buttery to put me up a pique-nique, and we might take a little excursion on the river? Now term is done 'twill be exceedingly peaceful.

By this, Julius understood that Davison had somewhat to communicate under discretion. And a jaunt on the river sounded a very agreeable way of passing the rest of the day. He nodded. That sounds delightful, he said.

So here they were, and indeed 'twas exceedingly peaceful. Davison turned out quite the water-man – oh, sure, I never turned out for the Eights but I have ever found rowing a pleasant form of exercize –

They came to an agreeable spot where they might moor the boat and be entirely private.

Julius was in no particular worry that Davison was still like to be yearning towards him: there had been a little awkwardness last year, when he had come visit in order to advize on the possibilities of creating a Persian garden at Nitherholme. Julius had occasionally enjoyed discreet brief passages with other men besides Beauf – surely justified by their frequent separations and, moreover, Beauf’s continuing liaison with Flora? – but it had been apparent that Davison was in hopes of rather more.

Indeed, it soon came about to be quite clear that an entirely new prospect had opened though one that did, one must admit, had its own difficulties –

Had been convoking with Lady Rondegate over setting certain ghazals that Mrs Lucas had turned into English verse, and the nature of Persian music, and how one might evoke somewhat of that – for one fancied English ears were not yet ready for the full effect – what a talented and intelligent woman was Lady Rondegate – most amiable – exceedingly hospitable – he had become quite an intimate of the household –

And he found himself developing affections towards Rondegate himself – that were, he fancied, reciprocated –

Julius nodded. Had been reported that Rondegate had been seen very little at the club of late and one had wondered whether, having married an agreeable wife, he was one that found he was less indifferent to feminine charms than he had supposed? They were, it was given out, a very fond couple, or at least, presented thus in Society.

But who knew better than he the way of these things? Though the matter was rather different when the lady in the triangle was that fiery creature Flora Ferraby, that disdained marriage and lived an independent life with the companionship of his own sister Hannah.

Well, that is a tangle! he said. 'Tis something to think upon – should wish to open the matter to Beau – to Sallington – 'tis a different situation with Merrett I fancy, Asterley is not part of his domestic circle –

I should not in the least wish to distress Her Ladyship, said Davison in anxious tones.

Why, the situation was indeed delicate – was not sure that he himself was the best fellow to advize – but should do what he might for others of the brotherhood. Would never forget the kindness a troubled young Julius had received in Venice from Marcello Traversini, a fine example to follow.

So once he was in Town, and had dispatched certain family dutifulness, including listening to Seraphine advancing the interest of these learned young ladies that there are these days, entire fitted as wives for men of science –

Took himself to the club where he was at last able to foregather with Beauf and have a most agreeable reunion. Then went dine together in one of the private rooms so that they might exchange gossip without interruption.

Beauf spent a little while complaining upon the turmoil that this election brought to the family – and here is Bella, of a sudden decides to take an interest in politics and make herself useful, well, I must concede 'tis a boon to have a pair of hands to odd tasks whilst I assist Papa, but she asks questions –

Julius grinned, and then gave a little of the news from Nitherholme. Beauf groaned. Shall have to go there, and make agreeable to Fendersham – no Polly, that must still be at sea, not even yet to Panama –

They agreed that they greatly missed her company.

And while I have all this upon hand, here is Rondegate, not only would desire me to come visit Wepperell Larches – that is in a part of the country that I fancy is still give over not only to the Tory interest, but to that part of it that considers Sir Robert an entire Judas – but in a great romantic complication –

Julius revealed that he knew somewhat of that!

Quite devoted to Zipsie – does not in the least sound to be in the Zellens’ situation – dislikes the thought of deceit, but how can one speak of these matters to a nicely-brought up young woman? Takes nothing away from her –

Lord, he went on, 'twas an entire different matter being brought up among the Raxdell House Phalanstery! Gave one a broader notion of the arrangements that were possible was there affection and kindness – along with an understanding of the necessity of discretion in the eyes of Society –

They fell silent. Julius thought of his mother’s considerable affection – not mere loyalty! – towards the late Lord Raxdell – had a fair notion that she had known how matters stood there 'twixt him and MacDonald: but doubted she would welcome any revelation that her own son was of like disposition.

At length Julius ventured that there was no possibility that Lady Rondegate had Sapphic inclinations?

Only, I suspect, towards whichever Muse 'tis that governs music! But she may have some apprehension that they exist – there is another impending trouble over Thea Saxorby being persuaded to sing the settings of certain lyrics by Sappho by that lady whom m’father refers to as that jealous hag Billston, for my aunt Jane, and the matter becoming bruited about –

How very fortunate, Julius remarked, that Lady Theodora’s brother Simon is somewhere on the high seas bound for Peru. But – Wepperell Larches, you say. Rondegate has said somewhat to me about the gardens – sadly neglected – would greatly appreciate my opinion –

Beauf chuckled. From what my aunt Martha tells me of their visit, you would find yourself quite besieged by the local gentry about their gardens and I daresay about what they believe to be some rare orchid that grows in their park –

Julius groaned. 'Tis ever some rare orchid that they wish to boast of. But 'tis an eligible plan – would Lady Rondegate be traveling with him?

I apprehend that she is in such condition that bouncing about in a carriage over the roads in those parts is not advized.

Ah. So, a bachelor party, then.

They looked at one another. At length Beauf said, I daresay one might be obliged to call upon the talents of Lady Bexbury in the matter, but – not just yet.