Tom Brownings Schooldays

Tom Browning's Schooldays

By

Joel

Chapter Sixteen

The Goodhew family were all up and I was greeted warmly by Jenny who said that Philip hadn't stopped talking about his London visit and she was sure he even carried on chattering when asleep. As Philip was munching on a thick hunk of bread liberally covered with butter and fruit preserve he was silent for the moment. Steven asked if I would like a dish of tea. I accepted and Robin poured me out a generous beaker of the steaming brew.

We all agreed the previous night had been a great success. Our band was especially praised. Mr Venables had agreed to teach James the clarinet and said when proficient he could also join. I mentioned old Miss Barnes had given Timmy a flute so they might be learning together. James smiled.

"I like him. We sat near Mr and Mrs Bottom and I was next to him and he asked me to tell him about the village and the people. He's very happy here and offered that I could ride his horse when I was bigger."

"Well, you'd better start on Old Nell," his father proposed.

I knew Old Nell. Nobody owned the old mare who had been left behind by a band of tinkers and she was allowed to graze on one of Squire Matthews's small pastures. All the boys had learned to ride bareback on the gentle old creature and no one ever took advantage of her good nature.

"Ask Bobby and he'll have her saddled ready for you," I suggested, "He'll take you round on her and you'll learn very quickly then you will have to borrow Silver."

James smiled. "I'll be ready for that at Easter when Robin's back."

Steven had finished eating and sat back in his chair "Your uncle says he wants to see Jenny and me this morning and then talk to the boys. Do you know why?"

He was looking at me and winked despite the number of witnesses. He knew and I knew, but neither could say anything until Uncle Dodd arrived. Luckily there was a clatter outside as he came across the cobbles driving Aunt Matty's chaise himself with the two lads bundled in travelling cloaks behind him.

There were the usual greetings and Jenny invited him into the parlour. He went through followed by Steven who had a rather knowing look on his face. The two boys stood in the doorway.

"I've heard about you," Robin said, "You'd better come in so we can shut the door and keep the warmth in." They stood rather sheepishly surveyed by the three younger Goodhews. "You were at the Feast last night and I saw you helping Mrs Reynolds and Nelly bring in platters. Are you two going to work for the Rector?"

"That we do not know," Liam said quietly, "It would be a good position but we think his reverence has other plans."

"Didn't you get your backsides whipped?" piped up young James, "Jackie Maynard says he saw two boys with their britches down running down the street."

"That is something we wish to forget," said Niall, "We were punished rightly and we know we have done wrong things. I hope we may be forgiven."

"Jackie said the man you were with will be in prison for years. He was a thief his mother said. Are you thieves like him?" Young James was in full flow.

"We have confessed our sins," said Liam and looked at me, "We have no desire to follow that man and his example anymore."

I had to speak up. "I was there when they were punished and also when they confessed. I think they are really forgiven for their sins."

Niall shot me a look. He mouthed silently but I knew he was saying 'Poor palsied Jock McTavish'.

I smiled at him. "Yes Niall, I'm 'Poor Jock'." The other three looked puzzled but both Niall and Liam laughed.

"I told Niall you were after we had been to that poor woman on Saturday," he said.

Robin look was even more perplexed. He hadn't heard all that story.

"Were you there when that baby died?" asked James, "We saw Uncle Dodd and old Briggs the gravedigger in the churchyard Saturday afternoon. Briggs said a few rude words as he tried to dig a hole and there was only a tiny box."

"The baby died before we got there," I said, "Uncle said he would make sure the little girl had a proper burial. I think I'd better tell you the whole story. But, first, do you know their names?"

"I heard you call him Niall," James said pointing at him.

"And this is Liam," I said. Then I turned and pointed at the three Goodhew brothers. "These three are Robin, Philip and James."

After that introduction the awkwardness began to disappear as Liam and I told the tale of the poor woman and the dead baby. Then he and Niall recounted some of their life story. James was obviously touched by the recitation of their years without a family.

"I would be quite lost if my mother and father went away and left me alone," he said, "I hope you find them again."

"It's been seven years," Liam said softly, "I can hardly remember them and all I know is we had a hard life before that in Ireland. The wrongs we've done were the only way we knew how to survive. I want to leave all that behind."

Robin had been particularly quiet. I think he was weighing up the sincerity of the pair. "And if you stayed and worked for the Rector you wouldn't want to thieve and go back to that life you knew?"

Liam shook his head. "We have lived a poor life so far and the Rector has given us hope. It is not just for me but Niall as well. We have had to thieve in many ways to stay alive. I doubt you've ever been so hungry that you've crept into a pigsty and eaten the swill fearful that the swineherd would catch you stealing from his pigs."

Both James and Philip looked as if they might retch. Robin looked straight at Liam. "I know that's true. You couldn't lie about such a thing." He went over and stood in front of them. "You will hear my tale and I think I'm the luckiest boy alive. If you are to stay in this village then I will be a friend when I'm here."

"I have already said the same," I said.

Philip and James didn't have to say anything as their father came through from the parlour just at that moment.

"All of you, come with me, we have things to discuss."

Uncle Dodd and Jenny were sitting side by side and were deep in conversation as we entered. Steven went over and stood by them. He went straight to the point.

"The Rector knows I want an apprentice and there is no one in the village who wants to be a stonemason. As you know it's one of the oldest trades and I'm proud to be a member of the craft." He looked at Liam closely. "You say you've repented of all the things you've confessed to which the Rector says are legion. Is that so?

Liam nodded. "That is so, sir, and I have the Rector and Master Tom as my witnesses."

"Yes, the Rector said that and he says you are truly repentant and you pray for forgiveness every day. He also says you did spend some time helping a mason in one of your stays in a Poor House but he finished his work and moved on. Is that true?"

Liam replied immediately, "Yes, sir. I was with him for nigh on three months where he was facing a new house and he was showing me how to square a piece of stone and how to judge the best stone to be shown."

"And what type of stone did he use?"

"For the facing he was using Bath stone. A good yellow brown in colour. He said it was useful as it was a freestone which can be cut in all ways. It takes the weather well and is much used in the West Country."

"Did he tell you another name for it? The type of mineral it is?"

"Yes, sir, he said it was a limestone and one of many types. I believe he said the quarry which provides most is called Dundry."

Steven nodded. "Did he use any other freestones?"

"Oh, yes. Another limestone was white Portland stone which he said was more costly and he used that inside the house. Even though it is more expensive he said many important buildings in London are faced with Portland stone."

Steven smiled. "That is so, but many are being dirtied by the awful smoke and soot." Steven walked to a cabinet and picked up a small carving of a horse. "What is this one?"

Liam took it from him carefully and weighed it in his hand. "This is a heavy stone. I would say it is some form of marble which the mason said could be as precious as gold in the right hands. But it is limestone also."

"In the right hands, you say, you mean a sculptor no doubt?"

Liam nodded. "He said a good mason was the equal of any sculptor in his own way as a finished church or great house should be valued just like any statue placed and admired before it."

"I would agree but many do not see the craft in building." He laughed. "And did you know we have our own Lincolnshire limestone?"

"No, sir, I did not."

"It is used for roof tiles rather than slate. It is quarried near Stamford and I admit I use it as little as possible." He looked at Uncle Dodd, who had been listening intently to the interaction, then back at Liam. "Did you enjoy aiding the mason? Did it give you satisfaction?"

"Sir, I did enjoy my time with him. He never treated me as a miserable serf like other employers I have had the misfortune to encounter. He let me cut stone and showed me how to use a chisel as well but I did not have time to learn to carve other than to cut into a pencilled line very carefully. Yes, sir, I was very satisfied."

"And would you be satisfied to be a mason yourself?"

"Sir, I would not know if I had sufficient skill but it is a wonderful craft as I have seen."

"From what you have told me in answer to my questions I think you learned a deal in those three months. The Rector is willing for you to become my apprentice. I warn you, if I take you, it is a great task to make headway. It is a long apprenticeship. I could not sign you for less than seven years and there is much to learn." He smiled. "Your work will endure for many years and you will be judged on it perhaps a hundred and more years from now. You only have to look at the masons' work in all the churches and cathedrals which have stood for centuries. I would be willing for you to work with me for three months to see if you are suited. If you are we will make your indenture back from Christmas Day. Are you willing to try?"

The look on Liam's face was a picture. He was astounded no doubt at the trust which had been placed on him but he didn't hesitate.

"Sir, those were the happiest three months of my life and if that could be my future life I would be more than content." He looked at the Rector. "Sir, you could not have given me more hope than this, I will accept willingly but I must ask you that my cousin Niall is not forgotten. As the elder I am responsible for him."

I think that Liam rose further in all our estimations.

"You must have your life," Niall said, "This is such an opportunity you must take it. I will survive, no doubt."

Uncle Dodd stood. "Liam, I am proud of you with your concern for Niall. There may be plans for him, too. Liam Keegan, I ask you formally, are you willing to take this opportunity? The terms of your indenture will be underwritten by me."

Liam was close to tears. "Sir, you have already done so much for us. I promise I will repay your trust. I accept."

Niall rushed to him and hugged him. "You will succeed, Liam, and do not worry about me. You must take this chance and I will do all to help."

"Then you must start next Wednesday, two days after Christmas," said Steven, "And we have accommodation for you. This is a rambling old house and you will have the room next to Abel Munnings, my journeyman. He will be surprised, but pleased as well, as he is leaving our family in February. You will find I do not let grass grow under my feet. Decisions have to be made." He laughed. "And my sons all stand there with their mouths open like fish. Are you going to welcome Liam? He will be part of this family. We may be losing Robin for his new venture as a proper scholar but we can take on another willing learner."

Philip went over to Liam. "I will accept you as part of our family and I will see that you do not shirk!"

We all laughed at that, even Liam. He put out a hand. "I accept you as my overseer and I hope we may be friends, too."

Robin and James stepped forward. "It'll be difficult for you having him as a taskmaster," said Robin, "But I think you will survive, especially if you can answer all the questions he'll be asking." He shook hands and James did the same and smiled up at Liam.

"I'll see he doesn't get in your way too much," he said, "He's my brother and he's supposed to look after me but I know how to escape from him when I want."

Their mother stood. "I hope, young man, you realise what you are stepping into. At least you can help me keep these two in order. Poor Abel has had that duty and is to be free. You are now enslaved." She laughed as her sons put on hurt expressions.

"Ma'am, I hope I would be a good slave but I would rather be a big brother."

"That decides it," said Jenny, "As Robin will not be here you can help them with their studies. The Rector tells me you have some Latin and you read and calculate well."

There was a quiet 'Oh, mum, no!' from both the youngsters.

"Ma'am, I think we will learn much together."

Jenny went to the parlour door and called to the young girl who helped her in the kitchen to bring some cordial and beakers in. We toasted Liam and his new position and also Robin who would be leaving to join me as a scholar at Ashbourne. Uncle Dodd said he would take the boys back to the rectory as he had his Christmas Day sermon to write and if he started early he would write enough for at least an hour. Philip was not to be outdone.

"I heard last night that old Mrs Jennings is not well since her husband died. I hope she doesn't die as she always gives me and her great-grandson Jamie a sweet when we visit her."

"So you think I should visit her? But I don't want a sweet," Uncle Dodd said with his usual straight face, "I know, perhaps I should appoint you as my curate and you could give the sermon on Christmas Day, nothing less than half an hour, though. They used to have the ceremony of Boy Bishops so you could be the Boy Curate. Let me think of a text. I know. 'How sweet are thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!'. I leave you to find a way of fitting that to Christmas just as well as you have fitted the pipes in your drawings for Tom's father." He wrinkled his nose at Philip who, from his expression up till then, was not sure if he was serious or not after his plan to keep Uncle Dodd's sermon short had misfired..

"Oh, Uncle!" he said, "You always get the better of me. Last time when I tried to get out of all that history of Caesar's Wars you said it was better than having to read all of Mr Gibbons's books which you put on the desk in front of me!"

"But that's what uncles are for and I promise you my sermon will not be more than ten minutes."

Steven was smiling and nodding at this exchange. "The boy never stops, does he? But he can be useful at times." He patted Philip on the head. Philip looked up at his father and grinned. "I have read of those Boy Bishops -" he went on. "- A strange custom but long gone now. A good riddance I would say as this scamp would turn the whole place upside down with his schemes."

Uncle Dodd laughed. "Of that I'm sure. But we must be off. Liam, I hope you will be settled and we must plan for Niall. Thank you, Steven, for your patience and Jenny for your forbearance and advice." He turned to face Philip and James. "I will see you two in my study for more instruction in that noble tongue on Wednesday and Robin will have his own work to do, no doubt. I wish you farewell."

We all followed him and the two boys to the door. Liam was smiling and looked very happy as Uncle Dodd whipped up the old horse and they trundled off.

We went back inside. Steven was nodding. "I was impressed with that boy. He may have been a rogue but I can see that was his defence against a hostile world."

Philip went up to his father. "I think he will be a good apprentice. I could see his eyes when you were questioning him. He wants to do well. I must remember his eyes. I think I will try to draw him."

I would have to go too. I looked at Robin and winked. I said my father wanted to talk to Timmy as he had had a letter from Lord Harford about the horse and, as Robin knew Timmy better than anyone, perhaps he should come as well.

His parents agreed and Jenny said that if there was much to talk about then no doubt Robin would stay. Just what I wanted to hear!

I thanked Steven for giving Liam a chance and he smiled and said he thought the boy had strength of character. Jenny laughed and said she thought that he would be a match for Philip who just stood and sneered and waggled his head until his father gave him a friendly cuff to the side of his head.

"Tom," he said, "You would not wish to smuggle a small servant back to Ashbourne in your saddlebag, eh?"

"He's a mite too big for my saddlebag but he would fit in my chest and could be sent on the mail-coach to be collected by a couple of the grooms."

"Huh!" the imp protested, "That would mean I'd have to be his servant as well!" He pointed to Robin. "No thanks. I shall stay here and annoy everyone as usual."

He got cuffs from three boys and all he did was laugh!

I collected Blaze from the side of the outhouse. The kitchen girl said she had put out a bucket of clean water for him. I stroked his muzzle and he neighed.

As Robin's Silver was in the stable at the Hall we walked and talked the near mile to the mansion. We laughed about the antics we had witnessed at the Feast. Dear Isaac would be teased about his drunkenness and told he should be renamed Noah as he was seen with his nakedness revealed as he pissed against the wall of the lock-up in the High Street.

We discussed the two lads and agreed that Liam would probably be a good apprentice and wondered what Niall might do.

Robin looked pleased. "Dad was getting worried 'cause Abel is off up North and wants to get married and there was no one who wanted to be apprenticed. My brothers aren't interested and that lad Jesse Flagge hasn't the sense needed but he is a good labourer and has the strength of an ox. So, we must wait and see!"

It was nearly time for lunch when we arrived back at the stable behind the Hall. Bobby said he had a headache as he'd supped more ale than usual and Mrs Gray had told him to keep out of the kitchen as he'd farted and made the maids laugh when he went in for his victuals. "Couldn't help it. My belly's all awry what with all that rich food, too." He couldn't help the fart which he then produced and we made a hurried exit as it overpowered even the smell there.

Mrs Gray looked as if she hadn't slept and had all the scullery maids and lads cleaning pots and pans returned from the feast. "There's only cold cuts and bread," she said above the clattering, "Some fool forgot to stoke the fire when he got back." Poor Benjy was getting the blame. Anyway, he wasn't around and nor was Timmy. We went through to the diningroom where Mr Clements, also looking weary, was instructing Benjy, Timmy and young Eamonn on the correct way to lay the tableware and glasses for the Christmas Day dinner.

I might be the master's son but Mr Clements just pointed to the door. "Breakfast room!" was the instruction.

Still there was plenty and Robin and I made a good lunch and were just finishing when my father came in. "Trust the pair of you to pick out all the best. I suppose I'll have to make do with the leavings!" He filled a plate as we sat in silence. "Lost your tongues? No apologies and no gossip?"

"Father, I'm sorry if we've deprived you of greatly needed sustenance but we are growing boys and you...." I stopped as I dodged a large hand aimed at the side of my head.

"You've been listening to your mother. Just because the cloth in my trousers has shrunk in the waist through getting wet in the rain I am told to stop eating. I am not getting fat, I am just a little more expansive. It suits a man."

"'The justice, in fair round belly with good capon lined....," whispered Robin and also dodged, but the other way.

"...And you will be the whining schoolboy, my lad," Father said, "Don't forget I did my time at Stamford Grammar School and was on the stage there in that play."

"As Rosalind?" I asked and moved sharply.

He just laughed. "Boys these days have no respect for their elders." He held up an arm and made a fist. "Even though but fourteen I was a brawny Charles the Wrestler and squeaked my way through the part until I was carried off and cried because the wretched Orlando, twice my size, had squeezed me..." He twisted his face. "...I will not say where as it may give you ideas of wrongful advantage."

We were both giggling. "Yes, Terence said you told him that, too, and you were a gallant in Romeo and Juliet and you tripped over your cape and tore your hose," I said.

"At least I wasn't Titania like your Uncle William the next year," he said forking a large slice of roast beef into his mouth.

"Uncle William?" I almost gasped. I couldn't imagine my idol, my mustachioed giant of an uncle, the bemedalled hero of skirmishes against Bonaparte in a role as Fairy Queen.

Father was enjoying himself. "My young brother at thirteen was the prettiest boy in the school and wore a green dress which he stole from your grandma's closet. She forgave him and kissed him in front of all his fellows when the play was over." His chest was heaving. "He said that was more frightening than any battle he's ever been in!"

"And who were you?"

He looked archly at us. "A stately Oberon, of course!"

We all dissolved into laughter. Father as the Fairy King!

We had sliced off large slices of an almond tart and father took the remains, almost a half.

"Do not tell your mother but it's too good to be left!"

We watched as he devoured the lot, crumbs and all. He waved a fork at us. "If you mention Falstaff..."

We had just stopped laughing even more when Mr Clements appeared at the door. "You wished to see the boy Timmy, sir." He must have wondered at all the hilarity and was being particularly formal.

Father wiped the crumbs from his lips with the back of his hand as he hadn't picked up his napkin.

"Thank you, Edward, take him to my study and we'll be there in a moment." Mr Clements strode off. "Fetch the book, Tom, I have the document in my study."

I rushed off up to my room and retrieved the book. Father and Robin were chatting as I returned. "I hear that Irish lad is to be apprenticed," my father said as I held up the book, "Alfred says he's a good lad and I trust his judgement. He's got quite a few of the youngsters out of trouble in his time. Anyway, to more good works."

We followed him along the corridor and found Mr Clements being questioned by Timmy about a map on the wall. "...And that's Africa..." he was saying as we entered. He stopped and said to father that the boy was inquisitive about places and hadn't seen such a good map before.

"We'll see he looks at it when we've finished," my father said and Mr Clements bowed and left the room.

Timmy looked a bit apprehensive but I held the book out to him and his eyes opened in wonderment. Father told him the book was a gift and that we had heard old Mother Campion was well and she wanted him to have it and he should treasure it. He said that Lord Harford had also sent a proper document about the horse and was sorry for the way he had been treated and misused. Timmy began to sniff as he held the book.

"Please, sir, I am not sad, but all this is too much for me."

I handed him my handkerchief and he dried his eyes.

"Timmy," my father said, "You must be a special boy for all these things to happen to you. Robin tells me you have such a way with horses which I have seen and Mrs Bottom has said you know almost more about herbs than her husband. My wife has great plans for her garden and you must work on learning more. This book has many descriptions and you must ask Dr Lancelot about some of their uses."

There was the sound of hurrying feet outside. It was Lancelot looking rather hot and bothered even on this cold day.

"I'm sorry to interrupt, Uncle Sam, but more bad news. It's that poor family. The scrofulous boy died this morning. He was very weak and his throat was swollen and he died in his sleep. I can't find my father. I have written the certificate." He stopped to catch his breath. "Uncle, I've come to ask a great favour. I want to send the rest of the family back to Boston, especially the children, to the grandmother there. I think the mother will be strong enough to travel and the other three children are much better. The father will have to stay in the lockup. If my father can arrange the burial for early tomorrow morning they could be on their way after that. May I beg a coach and driver?"

I knew my father had a soft heart. He was visibly moved by the news as we all were. That boy was younger than us and was now dead. The family had lost two children in just a few days.

"Lancelot," he said without hesitating, "Young Rowley Roberts will drive. We'll see if two of the grooms will go with him. That young Peters boy comes from near there and he can be left with his parents for Christmas. He can borrow a steed and can be back well before New Year." He turned to Robin and me. "You go and search for Uncle Dodd. Tell him the news and warn Briggs he'll be needed again and that son of his can help to dig. Then Rowley needs to be warned. He'll be at his father's cottage and he can get Peters and another." He turned back to Lancelot who had slumped down on a chair. "The lad was baptised I suppose?"

Lancelot nodded. "Yes, his brother said he was."

Father looked pensive. "That poor babe would be in unconsecrated ground." He looked at Robin and me. "Just mention that to your uncle. The pair should be together. Take the certificate." Lancelot took the pad from his satchel and gave me the paper. Father turned to Timmy. "You tell Mrs Gray Dr Lancelot needs food and drink. That's true, eh, Lancelot?"

"I had no breakfast and I had to see two others before coming here and I'm famished."

We rushed off to get cloaks and hats and decided we would see if Uncle Dodd was at old Goodwife Jennings's first. "Earning a sweet, eh?" Robin said. A quip to lighten a sad occasion.

Luckily his horse was tethered to a tree by her gate so his quiet chat with the old woman was disturbed. Both were upset, too, over the news. "This is a bad time of year," he said as he looked at the death certificate, "At least we can lay the poor child to eternal rest. Take this to Thatcher so he can enter it into his register." I knew that all the births, deaths and marriages had to be written in books now kept by someone called a Registrar, because of an Act of Parliament, and dear Lemuel's father was ours. This was as well as the parish registers which he also completed as he was the Parish Clerk as well.

As we left the cottage I mentioned the boy had been baptised but the baby hadn't. He smiled. "Tell Briggs there will be a quiet removal. He will understand." I knew that Mr Oliver the village carpenter would have been warned and would have a plain coffin ready. It would be big enough for two as the babe was just a tiny scrap.

We found Rowley at his father's cottage. He said he would look forward to the drive to Boston and would get Peters and another lad as companions. He would be back Christmas morning ready for his mother's roast goose. I said the woman's mother lived in Church Street and he said he knew it having had to collect goods from the harbour more than once.

Lemuel's father was a crotchety old fellow and grumbled at more work to be done as he took the certificate, and the weather was not good, and his small-holding only had a few cabbages left for selling. That was a hint and I bought two and paid two pence which I knew was more than double the price.

Briggs was quite different. We were invited in and given beakers of a strong peppermint cordial which he said kept the colds and the ague away. I believed him as the mixture certainly cleared my breathing. I would have to ask Lancelot about that as I had not experienced it before. Briggs said he grew a patch of the herb at the bottom of his garden so this was something morealso to tell Timmy.

Our tasks done we rode back to the Hall and stabled our steeds. Bobby was still complaining of his head so I gave him a cabbage to take to his mother to boil as I said it was a good remedy for drunkenness. Grooms should not call their Master's son 'a stupid little bugger' but I said I forgave him as he was not in a right state of mind because of the ale. Robin said he wasn't involved although we both ran as even with his headache and his crooked leg Bobby could move fast with a riding crop in his hand.

We couldn't tell my father we had accomplished all our errands as he had gone off to the main stables but we found Timmy with Lancelot in the breakfast room engrossed in studying the book.

Lancelot was more rested but rather excited as he pointed at the book. "This is most valuable," he said as we entered and peered down at the page which showed a drawing of some herb called valerian. "I have seen this book in my College library and studied it when I registered as an apothecary. I have told Timmy we shall work through it together especially where it says how to make tinctures and infusions. We must make plans to get many of these particular herbs as I know many of them are rare." He laughed. "A journey to Cambridge to the physick garden must be planned." He pointed to Timmy. "I have to go to collect things from my College and you will come and we will see what we can beg, borrow, or steal! No, I have always found the curator to be most helpful."

Timmy looked rather bewildered. "Don't worry, Timmy, just make sure we are with you when he shows you his dungeon with all the bangs and flashes and strange smells," I said, "But, I promise you, you will learn much. We have, haven't we, Robin?"

He didn't actually groan but I knew the sight of that severed head still plagued him.

"Sir, I want to learn and you have shown me even this afternoon things I had not understood," Timmy said to Lancelot, "This herb...," he pointed to the picture of valerian, "...Mother Campion said is useful but also dangerous, but she would not say why."

"The Latin here 'in medio' suggests one should be careful. It is useful in small doses for easing the stomach, in a slightly larger or stronger dose to help a person to sleep, but, after that 'middle' then it is dangerous and care would have to be taken. I tell you, Timmy, care should always be taken unless you prepare the dose yourself or trust your apothecary. That is the reason I like to prepare my own remedies."

Timmy smiled. "I understand and I ask that you teach me the correct things."

We left them and went up to my room. I had to show Robin our Christmas Box from Uncle Dodd. He was very impressed as he said that a lexicon like that must have been very costly. "And much better than a new shirt or pairs of stockings for young scholars," he said in perfect imitation of Uncle Dodd.

Robin joined us for dinner that night and we had to tell my mother all the happenings. She said she would tell Mrs Clements to arrange for a hamper of food to be prepared for the family and to send a message to Rowley to collect it before leaving.

A sad day for some as well as a happy day for others. Robin and I talked about this as we prepared for bed. We were so thankful our own lives seemed set. Benjy came up to tell us the two boys were better. Eamonn's rash had gone and he definitely wasn't scratching his arse anymore and young James had a healing scar on his hand. He said he would be at the Hall over Christmas but Mrs Clements said he could be with his parents for New Year as the family would be away. Yes we would, and I felt a bit sad as I would be in London and Robin would be here.

I think I was much happier when we shared our love for each other that night. Twice we shed our boyish seed and I fell asleep much more contented. Early in the morning before it was light I put more logs on the fire to keep us warm and woke Robin with the tenderest of kisses and as he nuzzled me he said just as I had missed him he would miss me. We lay side by side and in the flickering firelight watched each other as we raised our companion soul to that pinnacle where joyous release was the goal. We slept again until Benjy woke us. He was rather excited.

"Another fire," he exclaimed, "A house in Wood Street I think. I wager some fool did not guard their grate." Yes, this was the third one since we'd been home. Luckily those others had been easily doused and only furniture had been damaged and no one was injured. This one sounded worse as Bobby had been awake in his room above the stable and saw the flames as the thatch on the cottage must have been well alight even with the snow on it.

We said we would go and investigate later in the morning as we wanted to see Isaac and Jacob at the forge anyway. Benjy left us and what could we do but have another but much lengthier release together as even two willing boys had used up much of their reserves of strength and especially their juices in the three previous occasions of the night.

I more or less staggered out of bed after resting awhile from the final exertion. Still I was glad we had been able to spend the time together. My Robin. My dearest friend.

He was not my dearest friend then as he prodded me in the arsecheek with a sharp finger. "You have worn me out with your demands of the night," he said. Then he giggled and slid out of the bed and took me in the warmest embrace, our lips touched, our mouths opened and our tongues duelled. We drew apart and he felt down to the softness between my legs. "I do not think we have the power of our mighty Jabez with his five times boast. My touch is always enough to rouse you but now the serpent sleeps." I pressed myself against him. There was no hardness there either.

"Jabez's boast was five times in a whole day. Our efforts were four in less than half a day," I said, "I wager we could beat that boast if we put it to trial."

He laughed. "I take the wager and we have many hours before the clock strikes nine tonight because it was after that hour we were in bed last night."

We shook hands and pizzles on the challenge and vowed that Jabez would be beaten!

The water that Benjy had brought was still quite warm as he had set the pitcher by the grate. We needed that in plenty as we had not cleaned ourselves after any of our outflows.

"We shall need a deal of good food today," I said as I laid down the towel from drying my belly. "It must be like putting plenty of good logs on the fire to make a good blaze, the food is the fuel for our lusts."

"Our lusts! That is a fine word and there are no others as lusty as we, I say!" He caught me again in a second tight embrace. We giggled together for both serpents stirred faintly.

"I may be as lusty as you," I said, "My spirit is willing but my flesh is weak so I must rest awhile."

He brushed his lips against mine. "I do not think the Holy Scriptures mean quite that but I know your reason. I have a soreness there which I know will go in an hour or so."

"A good hour," I said, "We'll aim at this afternoon."

"And what bullseye will you aim for?"

"Whatever you desire," I said as winsomely as my play-acting would allow.

"We will see," he said, "Now to breakfast. We have many things to do."

We finally got dressed and made ourselves tidy. My hair was now to my shoulders and Robin's was only a mite shorter. I had taken to peering in the mirror glass each day but could discern no moustache nor hairs on my cheeks though with black hair I knew they would be evident. Robin said he wasn't worried but that would mean an extra expense in getting shaved as he didn't want to look as black-bearded as Zebediah. Jacob had said when I was at the forge that Zeb was proud of his dark young beard and had said he was sure he would be like an Old Testament prophet when it was longer. The only thing that will not be longer is that cock of his said his brother, that has not sprouted further since he was sixteen and making free in the privy at all times. As he had spied on Zeb since we didn't question him on that fact.

My father was in the breakfast room when we appeared. He had already been out and down to the stables and called us a pair of lazy idlers for spending all the day in bed. I could hardly say we had not been idle but made the excuse we had looked at the lexicon Uncle Dodd had given us. This was true but we had only looked to see if the Greeks had a word for 'arse' and found they apparently did not. Robin suggested 'backside' but it was not there. I knew that 'back' was 'noton' and it was given. We both said 'bottom' almost simultaneously and found 'pundax'. So Jabez would also have a new name 'Jabez Pundax'!

As Robin and I filled our plates father said he had seen the cottage which had burnt. Luckily the snow on the thatch had melted and helped to put out the fire but he had seen how helpful the neighbours had been in throwing up buckets of water. I asked whose cottage it was and he said it was one of the labourers who worked for Squire Matthews who would not be pleased to have to pay for repairs. Robin said the village should have one of the pumps like they had at Ashbourne mounted on a cart. He said it had been used when a cottage by Figgis's inn had caught fire and the fire was out in minutes.

"You must find out about it and perhaps we should have a contrivance like that here." father said, "These fires are costly as I well know. You remember those stupids oafs who left a fire unguarded and went off to the inn?" We nodded. That was a blaze! The cottages either side of the grooms' cottage were badly damaged. "Of course one of those belonged to Squire Matthews who made certain I paid. Luckily Grindcobbe found he hadn't maintained a retaining wall but it was still expensive. That reminds me. He'll be here before luncheon so I want you here as well so make sure you wash your faces." A slight sneer from both of us. "He's bringing the contracts for the sale of the horses to the omnibus companies." He smiled. "Should be a penny or two in that."

"It'll pay for the jakes, I suppose," I said.

Father shook his head resignedly. "All expense. Best we can hope for is a good harvest next year."

"But the feed for the horses is grown easily, isn't it?" asked Robin.

"Yes, we have plenty of grazing land and the hay grows well anyway. I might lay more to beets as we could have a few more hogs as well. It's the cereals which were bad. More barley this time, I think. Must see what Cobblers can produce, too."

"Have you decided who will manage the farm?" I asked.

"That's something to be discussed with Grindcobbe. I don't want to do too much just in case there is a claimant in the long grass. He says I'm not too worry as any litigation would take more than the year and I have the deeds."

All this business talk made me feel I was getting more grown-up. I had heard my father talking man-to-man to my brother Terence about the farm and the stud but this was the first time he had spoken openly to me about such things. Perhaps he though I might want to be a farmer if I didn't like being a physician. He was also including Robin in the conversation which was interesting.

"Robin said there was more pasture in the deeds. How far does it extend?" I asked.

"When you've finished filling your bellies you can look at the maps in the Library. I'll be in my study at ten sorting out with Grindcobbe whether we can afford roast goose or just watered gruel for our Christmas dinner next year. Do not be late."

We had our orders but there was still plenty of time to eat to recoup our strength and also to look where our lands stretched.

Full at last we went to the Library and found the Cobblers Farm maps rolled up on the floor under the desk. They were most detailed and we found the extra land on the second map was a thin strip running more than a mile or so by the river to the North of the farm including the fork of two roads. I said to Robin we should ride out and have a look at it some time. He suggested we could do it tomorrow if we had enough strength after besting Jabez. I pointed out that was leastways only twice more. Anyway, we had a good twelve hours to deal with that small problem. I sniggered and added that he wasn't the stout-hearted champion I had always assumed him to be if he tired so easily. Ouch! Why is it that a sharp punch to the top of the arm makes it go numb? I thought 'I will repay saith the Lord'.

As we had almost two hours before appearing at my father's side we went up to my room. The maids had been in to tidy and to make the bed and the boys had removed our pot. I lifted the covers and luckily we had left no evidence of our efforts of the night on the sheet. Being industrious I showed Robin the pages of calculations to be done before returning to school. We worked separately but he was quicker than me on several of the questions and I wondered which form he would be placed in as he was more than my equal in mathematics. He said he had enjoyed that hour as it made him think.

I was a little better than him when we tested ourselves on some Virgil. He said he needed to work hard especially with irregular verbs like nolo, volo and malo. I knew these as we had made a list of their uses: 'I do not wish', 'I wish' and 'I prefer'. I explained that nolo should be thought of as being made up of ne and volo. So the present tense is nolo, non vis, non vult, nolumus, non vultis, nolunt.

He laughed. "Easy when you know!"

I said I had been lucky when Mr Ridley had questioned me as I knew that 'malus' was 'bad' and 'malum' was 'apple' with 'mala' as 'apples'.

"Oh, I have much to learn. But I remember 'malum' also as 'an evil', 'propiusque malum est'."

I remembered another. "'Mala' can also mean 'jaw'. It's near the end of that Book Twelve. The hound 'snaps his jaws', 'Increpuit malis'."

We both decided that we would have to work together as much as possible.

"Theo is a good scholar," I said, "He and I have worked on many passages together especially in the Greek."

Robin made a wry face. "Perhaps we could work on some before school begins. I need to try for more vocabulary."

"And we must both try to help poor George. He is no longer in that pit of darkness but Mr Prior is a taskmaster."

He did smile then. "I shall never forget 'a wise young groom'. I vow I'll help him as much as I can, especially he can borrow Silver."

"I think George will spend more time on the field playing football on our afternoons and you must try as well."

I had already said I was not so interested in that game but Robin said he had kicked a ball with the grooms but did not know if there were any special rules.

We laboured on until one of the twins rapped on the door. "Mr Grindle is here," he said "The master is ready for you."

I heard Robin whisper 'Mr Grindcobbe' to the lad as we left the room.

Mr Grindcobbe was alone and greeted us warmly as we entered the study. "So, Robin, you survived the onslaught of my nephews, eh?"

"Especially young John, sir," Robin replied, "He kept us most amused, though."

"Yes, I am always happy to be in his company but he says he does not wish to be in the Law when he is older. But, he still has many years to decide what he will do."

Father came in then and must have overheard the last. "And what will these two decide? Sent to the Colonies no doubt as neither the Church or the Army will have them and pity the press-gangs are finished as a time before the mast would teach them not to be idle!" Father was in a very good mood.

"Father," I said, "We have good skills. We shall go to London and play our flute and fiddle on the streets for pennies and say farewell to Lincolnshire."

"Good, I shall be glad to see that happen otherwise your poor mother and I will be reduced to living in genteel poverty. That is, unless I can sell a good few of these old nags of mine to pay for schooling and food and clothing...."

"...Genteel?" mouthed Robin, "When has a Lincolnshire farmer been genteel?"

"Boy!" my father said, laughing, "One lad is enough for repartee." He turned to Mr Grindcobbe. "I thought that my son Terence had a sharp enough tongue on him. He kept me much amused while his leg was healing and now I have these two."

Mr Grindcobbe smiled and looked even more like Mr Pickwick in the illustrations. "My two sons at home are the same. I hear remarks I am not supposed to hear but it is very open between us."

My father nodded. "True. Terence does not tarry to speak his mind and I would rather have a lad like that than one who skulks in the undergrowth and hides his feelings and opinions."

"My opinion is...," I said slowly, "...That we should discuss the matters Mr Grindcobbe has come all the way from Stamford to deal with and leave sons and their misdemeanours in the undergrowth!"

My father sighed as Mr Grindcobbe laughed. "What that son of mine means is that the sooner we finish business the sooner he will be at the table again!"

Business it was. There were seven contracts to be perused. All had different clauses of stipulations and requirements. In total there were arrangements for the delivery of somewhere near two hundred or so horses, in sound wind and limb, over the next fourteen months with promises of further orders if the supply was as required. Mr Grindcobbe said he had seen similar contracts and these were not too onerous. The inspection of each horse before delivery, but on site of the omnibus company, was as expected and judging the information from his agent in London he was sure the price offered for horses as specified was fair. Also this price could be re-negotiated on either side before each delivery.

I didn't quite see father rubbing his hands but from what he was whispering to Mr Grindcobbe sounded to be a very fair price. Christmas goose rather than thin gruel!

Robin and I were sent to the Servants' Hall to find father's secretary and accountant who were waiting there to be called as witnesses to signatures. While father and the others signed the various documents Mr Grindcobbe asked about Niall.

"Your Uncle has asked if I require another scrivener and I am pressed with work and must employ another. The problem is few youths wish to make it a profession and fewer have the skills. You know the boy he speaks of, would he be suited?"

"I have seen him write and he is neat and makes a fair hand. I expect Uncle Dodd told you of his previous life and I think he has truly repented and needs a position where he can use his skills," I said.

Mr Grindcobbe nodded. "I value your judgment. I have found that a boy will speak the truth about another and you have confirmed what your Uncle has said. I will give the boy a trial of a month or so if he is willing to come to Stamford. I will only work him during good daylight hours as eyes are precious and I do not approve of employers who make their clerks work by poor candlelight. I will see the boy at the New Year and will tell your Uncle this."

I thanked Mr Grindcobbe and was surprised when father's secretary spoke up.

"If the boy wants employment until then I can use a scribe to copy all the letters I have to prepare for these contracts. We have a good number of other purchasers also at present so there is a deal of correspondence to produce and copy."

Father had also been listening. "That would be a good solution. Mr Temple is pressed for assistance and we could assess the boy's competence for Mr Grindcobbe as well. You boys can take a letter to Uncle Dodd and he can tell the boy to be at the stables at eight tomorrow morning. I think you could collect him and introduce him to Mr Temple for that time. Mr Temple can agree his money."

Oh! An early rising but a good opportunity for Niall. I must make certain we are not too worn with besting Jabez or father will not be pleased!

Mr Grindcobbe was ready to go but was taken off to the breakfast room for a dish of tea before leaving to get back to Stamford for a meeting with another client. Mr Temple had the sheaf of contracts and was smiling. "I think we shall have a good year as I know Mr Jarvis has an adequate number of horses for the first few contracts and he has many contacts to make the numbers. As long as our competitors don't find why we need so many we are quite safe."

Robin and I nodded. The contracts were not to be discussed, especially with anyone whose tongue might be loosened in the inn, in fact, not at all!

Mr Temple wrote a letter to Uncle Dodd and took it for my father to sign. We were sent then to the Rectory and all was arranged. Niall was also employed.

We rode then to the forge as we wanted to see the brothers and suggest the change of name for Isaac. First we looked at the burnt cottage. The thatch had been pulled off with the rakes and there were several men bringing straw and reeds for it to be thatched anew. Two women were busy taking out clothing and other chattels which had not been burnt and carrying them into the cottage next door where the family had been taken in by their good neighbours. We gathered that a stupid son had forgotten to set the guard to the fire and some spitting embers must have dropped onto a cloth rug.

Isaac and Jacob were busy as usual. A row of young horses were at the rail and I guessed these would be the basis of the first contract. Isaac was not pleased when I asked if his head was better.

"My father said I deserved a good thrashing and if I wasn't so big he would have given me it," he grumbled, "I am not used to ale and that Mary Ann said my feet did not follow the music of the dance. Girls do not know how difficult it is for a lad to take ale and dance at the same time."

"And those who take too much have to leave the dance and empty themselves wherever they find a quiet corner," I said.

"And display themselves to all like Noah who was uncovered and showed his nakedness," said Robin, "We think you require a change of name."

His brother laughed. "That would be good. But he also complained he could not find other wenches to dance with him. I said if that thing of his was a proper length he could tie ribbons to it and lie down and the minxes would clamour to dance around his Maypole."

Isaac swung the hammer he was holding and hit the bare anvil a mighty blow and winced at the same time as if the sound jarred his aching head. "If I hear you again, brother, your skinny cockling will be hammered until it lengthens more than the two inches you are so proud of!"

Jacob was in a merry mood. "Then there is no wonder that you cannot measure correctly as you have not matched the two arms of the weathercock for Squire Matthews."

His brother dropped the hammer and advanced on him. "I'll use my pincers on your ballocks if you're not quiet. I did the right measures as the paper said. It was the Squire's agent who put it wrong." He grabbed his brother and bent him over the anvil. As all Jacob was wearing under his leather apron was a scrap of cloth tied roughly round his waist his bare arse was in full view. Three resounding slaps were delivered but Jacob still laughed as he put his hand back under Isaac's own apron. He was released immediately as Isaac bellowed.

"So you might sound like the Bull of Bashen when your ballocks are in my grasp," laughed Jacob, holding on. "Tiny cods you may have but they still make you squeak when they're tweaked."

Robin and I were laughing as the squeak was rather more than a mouse might make and we both knew that Isaac's 'tiny cods' were well-rounded and hung low especially in the heat of the forge.

"Let the poor boy go," I said, "He may be wounded in the stones and not allowed to appear in the sight of the Lord if you pinch too hard."

"Stones, stones?" said Jacob who must have given another squeeze to his squirming brother who roared again, "They're no more than little pebbles. I've seen bigger stones in old man Archer's plums and we've had a few of those when he hasn't been on the lookout for naughty boys!"

He let go and Isaac stood up adjusting his breech clout. "If I wasn't a good, kind brother to that wretch I would have him in the quenching trough to cool him down."

Robin moved out of the way. "Perhaps your sore head prevents you meting out such retribution which..."

He hadn't moved far enough. Isaac lunged and grabbed him and, sturdy as he was, lifted Robin as if he was a rag doll. "My head does not ache," he said, shaking Robin like a terrier with a rat, "I can still make an impudent boy repent."

Robin was laughing. He had received the same from Isaac before. "I repent! I repent!"

He was lowered and slapped on the back with one of Isaac's not very gentle pats. "You are forgiven but I had better give the Master's son a good hiding or he will think he can tease the lower orders without repayment." I laughed and made a long-nose at him and this was my undoing. "I am not wounded in the stones but...." I was too stupid to move so was grasped in a vice-like grip. "....my little Lord will be shaken so if his little ballocks haven't dropped they will be helped and clang together like bells in the belfry." I was bounced up and down and if my poor balls didn't shift in the tightness of my britches I think my teeth rattled instead!

"Thank you," I said as he set me down, "I will examine myself tonight to find if your treatment has made a difference."

Isaac held a finger up. "And make sure that is all or I will have Zebediah preach his one and only sermon at you for you will be unclean." He raised his voice into Zebediah's whine. "And if any man's seed..." That was as far as he got as we heard the clatter of hooves on the cobbles of the forge courtyard. Both sons hurriedly picked up hammers and I took hold of the bellows handle which was just by me. Robin was also quick and held up a length of iron as if he was handing it to one of them ready to be made into a horseshoe. We heard the rider dismount and then talk to a couple of horses tethered to the rail. Their father came striding into the forge.

"Working hard, I see," said Mr Barker, who wasn't fooled for a second, "Or gossiping like a gaggle of old women?"

"Both," said cheeky Robin, "We were asking if they enjoyed the Feast but Isaac has little memory of it."

Isaac was ready for another attack but just shook the hammer at him as his father laughed. "Boys will be boys, I suppose. As long as his mother does not find how much ale he quaffed he is safe. Anyway, a good headache tells a lad to either reduce or, better still, to resist the temptation. I know full well as in my youth there were few who could match my pursuit of the next tankard until their grandfather found me dead drunk by the anvil and tossed me in the village pond to sober up. I had to confess before the Elders at the Chapel and that put an end to my carousing. Let them find out the hard way is my motto. Eh, Isaac?"

"Yes, father," he said quietly, "All in moderation or not at all."

Their father laughed again. "Get to work, then. And you two clear off before you dirty yourselves. I don't want your mothers complaining about soiled clothes."

We laughed, too, as Mr Barker's bark was a deal worse than his bite. We sauntered out and untethered our mounts. "To your room," whispered Robin, "And no moderation!"

To be continued: