Tom Brownings Schooldays

Tom Browning's Schooldays

By

Joel

Chapter TwentySix

The next three days flew by. Although I had not reached my bed much before half past three the previous night I was awake as I heard the church clock chime seven. I stretched, not quite wearily as I had not tired myself dancing. What had fatigued me was gazing and chatting so much with more than a couple of glasses of champagne between the chat or the gazing. I thought back to the evening and felt very happy as I had really enjoyed the spectacle, especially the dancing and the music with the colours of the swirling frocks catching the light of the many decorated lanterns. I thought of Jabez and Mehmet as the two Genies with their attendant kittens who had brought such an exotic flavour to such a spectacular occasion with their flamboyant costumes. As I recalled all the smiles and thanks as people went to their coaches I thought my Aunt must be so pleased with the gaiety and pleasure it had given all who attended.

However, my reverie was rudely disturbed by the thrashings of some monster in the bed beside me. I had quite forgotten that Jabez had stripped off his garments as I was busy in the jakes and as I rolled into bed had slid in the other side and was snoring even before my eyelids closed. I had been so tired I hadn't donned my nightshirt and as I turned and bumped into the now-passive body I realised Jabez was unclothed, too.

I turned to face him and thought I would examine him more closely now he was quiescent and in my clutches, so to speak! I felt below and cupped his ballsack in my palm. At least I tried but as I captured one large ducks-egg sized ball so the other slipped off the edge of my hand. His colossal pizzle was limp and as I slid my hand under it's length I swear it lay from my fingertips to well above my wrist. My hands, like my feet, were not small so I surmised it must be a good six inches when in it's present state. He must have been well asleep for, even as I drew the fingers of my other hand along the length to feel it's girth, it did not respond. Carefully I drew his covering skin back and moved down the bed. My mouth was soon positioned and very gently I licked that bulbous end. The leviathan stirred and as I took just that fatness into my mouth and washed it with my wet tongue so it began to harden. As it lengthened so I stroked it with one hand then gripped it with both and began a slow movement back and forth.

Jabez was now awake and put two gentle hands on my head and felt for my face and ears and caressed me so softly and whispered that I should take care as he felt his juices ready to be released. I increased my stroke and moved my tongue around that head more forcefully until with a mighty thrust of his hips and a sonorous grunt his pizzle left my grasp and I was drenched with spurt after spurt of his thick cream. My cheek was covered and I knew some was in my ear and over my hair. His jerking hips meant my head was belaboured by the heavy truncheon as the final drops fell and all was spread over my face. I knew dear Jabez could produce a fountain but this was even greater than I had experienced already on this visit.

He put his hands down and helped me up to face him. "I do not think I have ever been woken so kindly and lovingly as that." It was too dark for him to see my streaming face but I put a hand up and took some of the cream on my finger and placed it on his lips as I stretched up to share that gift with a kiss.

We shared that drop and then he wiped more of his outpouring from my cheek with a hot tongue. We shared that, too, and I tasted his youthful liquor fully which seemed more saltier than my precious Robin's sweeter seed.

"For you now," he whispered and drew the coverlet away so he could go down in the bed to find my oh-so-rampant prong. Like Jabez I needed no more than a few strokes as his warm mouth and tongue did wonders to my very sensitive end. I felt those deep-down surges and flooded his mouth with my own offering. Perhaps not so much as his but freely given with great feelings of contentment and affection for such a friend.

Without a word we shared again and hugged each other under the now drawn-up coverlet. We lay, still, listening to each other's breathing and gently stroking each other's backs for several minutes just savouring each other's presence.

"May you and Robin share many times like this," he whispered as he nuzzled my cheek. His own cheek was rough - he was no longer the beardless youth I had known before. "My Mehmet and I have the greatest love and pleasure when we share like that. I am so grateful and proud that you and I are able to do the same."

I kissed his rough cheek. "Jabez, you have been my friend for so many years I cannot forget that. We have shared many boyish adventures and now we have sealed our friendship further. I would wish you and my Robin will be able to be together some time just as we have been. I know he has valued your friendship in the past and he does not forgot friends."

We lay clasping each other for more minutes until the clock chimed the three- quarters. "I had better stir myself though Mr Tolliver said I was excused from anything other than seeing you were washed clean and dressed," he said and slapped my bare bottom. "From what I found on your face you need a good wash as you are likely to be covered with more white plaster than some of those ladies last night. Did you see that fright in that great wig? If she could have smiled her face would have cracked!"

I was ready to comment on his output of whitewash rather than good plaster but had to giggle as Branscombe had nudged me when the hideous wig appeared atop a very slender lady announced as Lady FitzWilliam. She was beside a very rotund gentleman who was a member of the House of Lords. Yes, her face was whiter than white and her lips hardly moved as she greeted and talked to people. Branscombe said they were neighbours and that she and his mother attended many functions around Canterbury. However, his mother was irked because, although she was an Honourable as the daughter of a Viscount, Lady FitzWilliam, had only been a lady's-maid before marrying, but as the wife of an Earl took precedence. I think he was rather amused at his mother's pretensions. He said that Lady FitzWilliam was quite delightful but had suffered burns when her boudoir hangings caught fire and so had to cover her face and head. I quietly said to Jabez I agreed it was a hideous wig but there was a reason as the poor lady had been burned in an accident. "Sorry", he whispered, "I did not know."

I gave him a further hug and said I was ready to be cleansed but needed other release first. He slapped my bare rump again and said there were two copper pitchers standing in the hearth which should have enough warm water for a rinse of essential parts. I felt down and tweaked his pizzle, as he had accused the old Duchess of that action, and said my essential parts were to be cleansed before that was dipped in my washbowl. I received another slap and was told to make sure I wiped my backside thoroughly as he didn't want to have to deliver soiled linen to the laundry-maids as he was sure they inspected every item and he didn't want to hear their chant of 'Tom, Tom, dirty bum!'. I tweaked his weapon again and said that no doubt they inspected his sheets for stains and two of them were needed to pound them in the dolly-tub as they were so stiff each week. "More like each day," the rogue said, "And with Mehmet as well they take twice as long!"

I just tweaked again and told him of the first night at Ashbourne and the damp washcloth. He laughed. "I knew all boys were the same." He was quiet for a moment. "I'll tell you a secret." He drew my head closer to his. "That Captain Hastings...." I nodded remembering it was Rosamund's beau. "....He takes solitary pleasure every night he stays. Again in the morning I would guess as I have to dress the bed when he leaves and it is still damp."

"But he's not a boy..." I began.

Jabez sniggered. "...makes no difference if he's grown and it's the same with most young officers that have slept here. Boys are boys even if they've grown up. Now you, it's time for up!"

I was bundled out of bed and we tussled a bit giggling but he was stronger than me and I was almost bodily lifted towards the jakes. As he set me down I got another slap. "Take your time and I'll see the water's hot. Just the washbowl today, with plenty of soap, and you'll be clean as a new penny."

I took my time and revelled in the luxury of the comfort and warmth instead of the chilliness and stench of the privy at home. Still, perhaps at Easter we would have that contentment.

Jabez was most attentive to my toilet when I was ready. The light from the gas lamp showed I had traces of his output in my hair above my ear. "Better wash that out or you'll be boasting your little pistol can fire a shot three feet and all the time it was mine close up!"

That was something else to find out. I had noted that no matter which boy's seed I had seen, all seemed similar. I knew mine and Robin's matched and that Jacob's and Isaac's were alike both in copious amount and appearance though whiter and creamier at times. My experience in the inn with Rowley and young Timmy when we and Robin returned from Ashbourne showed me that even an older lad and the dark-skinned boy were no different in display as we mixed the liquids together. Although Jabez produced a goodly amount I noted when beside mine on my belly the two pools were of the same whiteness and fluidity. If all looked much alike I wondered what made the differences between us all as I knew that seed was needed to produce a child.

As I hadn't made some remark to counter his jibe Jabez realised I was contemplating something. "So, you are silent and your ready tongue is still, what ails you?"

I grinned at him as he held up a washcloth ready to dampen and cleanse my hair of his residue. "Nothing ails me, my friend, I have a very fine pistol and as you well know I have a good range in firing, but let me ask you something. I know you have seen many boys produce their seed. I have, too, in my shorter life, but I have noted that no matter who the boy may be what they produce looks most similar. A little whiter, or creamier, or more liquid, or even a greater amount, but there is not a great difference. I must tell you that even Timmy, who is very dark and has the blackest pizzle ever, spurts seed no different from Robin or me."

Jabez looked at me quizzically and I had to tell the tale of that fateful time at the inn which I was sure was planned by Rowley and Robin.

Of course Jabez laughed and said he was also sure whatever happened was schemed by that pair. "But to your question. I have seen a good dozen and more but have not thought to examine what they have produced more closely." He laughed again. "It is only inquisitive boys like you who ponder such things. But then, how are we to learn and understand things if not for the likes of you and your cousin." He nodded. "Tis a pity if you could not ask him. He's a physician and must know about such things. And I have thought of something. Does the seed of Lords and gentry look different from us lesser classes? You may be gentry but what you squirt doesn't clank with riches." He sniggered. "I would say it is more weak and watery than that of mighty Jabez Bottom!"

I snatched the washcloth from him and slapped his backside with it. "You are older than me you fiend! You have had more practice at the act and I know mine has become more plentiful and thicker these last few months." He was trying to get the washcloth from me but I managed another slap. "And I can tell you that Robin and I have surpassed that number you so proudly boasted you could perform in one day! It was most easy and, no doubt, we will surpass it again."

He laughed and managed to wrest the flapping cloth from me. "I wager there was naught to show once you exceeded five times. Even my sixth was but a mere gobbet but then even my ballocks do not match that old ram of the Squires and he can service a flock of ewes in one day."

"Ah, so you have tried to outdo that beast and failed. What did you do? Hide in the hay loft and peer out at his rutting while you tried the same with your pizzle in your fist each time he thrust at a new mate? You managed six and he was on his dozen, eh?"

I got the slap that time but he was laughing. "True, it was in the hay loft for most that day but I did not peer out. I was too intent on my own pleasure just as you are on each occasion. Now, let's get you clean!"

Our sport was over for the moment. Jabez set to and filled the wash basin with water which was now hot. I willingly submitted to his insistence that he washed me and was lathered with a good soap he said he had found after Captain Hastings had stayed one night. "I wager he used it to wash away anything remaining on his belly and chest after his little pleasure." He sniggered. "I can say 'little' as one night he was rather foxed with drink and stripped off all his clothing and flung it at me and tripped and fell onto the bed and displayed himself as his drawers fell to his knees. I warrant you have more length to show than him even though he may outdo you in use and amount." He dried my back as he went on. "It would be good to examine his outpouring. He is the grandson of an Irish Earl and we could see if there are coronets and shamrocks floating in his slime."

I giggled. "Just as there are rakes and hoes in yours and horseshoes in mine."

He nodded as he turned me and began to lather my front. "Yes, I just heard a clank where that water washed that spot on your belly. I did not know if it was some of mine or a smidgen of yours. I will have to borrow your Uncle's magnifying glass when next you spurt."

"My goodness, Jabez," I said, "My cousin Lancelot has a new microscope which magnifies things even more. He has shown us tiny animals that are in pond water which you cannot see in the jar. I know he has looked at blood so I wonder what we might see if we inspected this other fluid."

Jabez was quiet for a moment. "I have heard about that instrument. I went with your Uncle to the Royal Institution last year when he attended a lecture there. I stood at the side and the man spoke of new discoveries in plants and said he was able to see things by using his microscope. I did not know what he meant but when we returned I ventured to ask your Uncle what it was and he told me. He said that on one of our journeys out he would take me to see a shop which supplied such things but he has not been well enough to make more than the most important visits and I have not dared to mention it again."

I thought a moment. I expect Aubrey Bayes would know of such a shop. I would ask him and perhaps on one of our drives we might be able to explore such an establishment and Jabez would see one close to. I couldn't say anything for the moment as Jabez was wiping the lather from my face and had handed me a towel to dry myself. As soon as I had finished I told him of my plan. He said he would be so pleased and as a reward of sorts washed my pizzle and balls for a second time which roused it and made him laugh.

"My Tom, you do outdo the good Captain I am sure. And you say that Timmy shows even greater length than you? You say he is dark-skinned and his pizzle is black? I wonder if he is kin to the black boy Lady Cuthbert has as a servant. He is a well-made lad of sixteen or so but I have not had opportunity to examine him. But not quite true. I did see him relieve himself in the jakes on the servants' floor but it was too dark to discern size or colour. He is likely to be here for the next At Home on Thursday afternoon and I will make every effort to inspect him."

I shook my head. "Jabez, you will tell me next you intend to see what he can produce."

"I warrant that would not be too difficult. I have found no boy who has refused a hand to help them with their needs." He snickered. "True. You know those Coppins brothers? Good Baptists who are told it's a great sin to touch themselves and get beaten by their father if discovered. Those two shut their eyes and frig each other but are also glad when another helps them as they stand with their hands behind their backs so they do not have to touch their own evil pricks. They think there is no sin in either action as they are not touching themselves. It makes them so grateful when another offers. Still, their stupidity makes good sport for others. I know wagers have been made on which one will spurt first and I have heard that Jesse Packer wins the most as he has the fastest stroke."

I knew the pair. Some years older than Jabez and employed on the most menial tasks as the whole family was well noted as being rather light in their wits. Their father was a hedge cutter and ditcher and the pair wandered the fields as bird-scarers when the corn was ripening which annoyed many of the young boys who were deprived of a penny or two as these grown lads not only flapped their arms and hollered to frighten the crows and rooks but also chased the youngsters away. Other times they cleared fields of stones or helped the road menders fill the ruts. I had not known of their fear of sinning and their ways of salving their consciences, nor of the contests.

"Jabez, it could be said it is evil of you and others to make a mockery of them, but if they are so foolish what harm is there."

"No evil at all. All I know is that there is no boy of my acquaintance who has not pleasured himself from the time his pizzle first hardened in his fist and no amount of praying, reciting verses, or beating, will stop his actions. Take the pleasure and pray after perhaps. I say the Good Lord would not have given us such feelings if we should not enjoy them."

As I well knew the great feelings of pleasure I got not only from my own action but also when I was with others, especially my Robin, I could not disagree with Jabez's sentiment. Unfortunately with all that talk, or maybe from the washing and drying of my unruly prick it was standing proud once again.

Jabez shook his head. "I do not know what we can do with you, Master Tom. I think you must get dressed as we need our breakfast."

I looked down at him. He was also stiffening. "Jabez, all boys are the same as you say." I knew we had not better indulge our passions again so I turned away and found the package of undergarments. "Here, a present for you for your kind attention to my needs." I passed one of the tighter fitting garments to him and picked one for myself. "That should help keep you decent and not flopping from side to side in those britches of yours."

He grinned and bowed his head. "I think Mr Pembridge and Mr Purrett like seeing how it does it's dance. They will be disappointed as these will hold it steady. I must say the looseness does tend to make it rub and that is a signal for it to thicken..."

He stopped as I grinned at him and shook my head. "...That thing of yours has rarely been asleep since it began to grow! And I wager it is deliberate for you to tease that pair."

He shook his head. "It is not a tease for them. They are content with their own companionship. They have never made any advance even when we have discussed my own feelings." He paused. "My Mehmet tells me he has to beware as there have been many times when he has been massaging at the Baths and the man has stretched out a hand and stroked his leg or thigh. He says he moves away and shakes his head. He is worried about his young brother as Karem seems to enjoy any caresses he receives. Mehmet has warned him that he should take care that such actions can lead to unwholesome suggestions but Karem says he is not worried and he is often rewarded with a coin or two when the man leaves the Baths. I know men go into the small rooms to rest and some have suggested that Mehmet might give them a more private massage in there. He has also been asked if he would visit the man at his home for more money but he has always refused and tells them his father would be angered if he did so as his employment is at the Baths. Now he is no longer there all the time with his brother he worries Karem might be inquisitive and come to some harm if he takes up such an invitation."

I was inquisitive myself. "What harm might there be?" I asked.

Jabez shook his head. "Mehmet tells me there are some rooms at the Baths which are locked and he has never been allowed to enter them. He thinks some men like to be beaten and have other cruel things done to them and there are two other men who call themselves masseurs but do not work at the three tables in the big room. They are not English but I do not think they are Turkish, nor Russian like Serge." He grinned. "I have seen them wrestling together as a show for the customers and they have even more muscles than Serge."

I said I hoped I would be allowed to see the Baths, perhaps when Jabez and Mehmet collected the next supply of oil. Jabez shook his head.

"I have discussed it with Mehmet and he does not think your Uncle will allow a visit. There is a strict rule Mehmet says that boys under eighteen are not admitted even if they want massage."

"Why is that?" I asked, "Karem is certainly not eighteen and you and Mehmet are only just that age."

"Mehmet's father supervises his sons and I am trusted to collect the supply," he said almost curtly and paused again. "I think I have told you enough. I think we should dress and go for breakfast."

I realised there must be more but kept silent as we donned our clothes. I did have another query which I expressed as I finished lacing my shoes.

"I noted that Mr Tolliver was in charge both at the dinner and the Ball..." I started

"...And realised that Mr Tuckwell was not in attendance. Is that not so?" he inquired.

"Exactly," I said. "I suppose it was in case he might be recognised."

Jabez nodded. "That is so. It is safe for him to be around the house with the family and the other servants but when there is a gathering, such as a dinner or last night's Ball, then he keeps to his rooms or visits close friends. He did the latter last night and is expected back later this week."

"You say 'his rooms'?"

Jabez grinned. "You could not expect him to languish in an ordinary servant's room after his exploits with your Uncle and his own family connections. He has his own quarters at the far end of the corridor. There is no door here but an entrance off the back stairs. He lives alone and has even more books than your Uncle. I know this as I am given lists to take to booksellers, all in your Uncle's name, of course."

"A strange man," I said, "Does he hide away like that because he shot the two in Florence?"

"I do not know except that he is sometimes absent for some weeks and I can only think he is still engaged on government business. I have not enquired. It would not be my place to do that but I expect I might be informed because of other things." He stopped. "Now to breakfast."

Jabez was being more open with me than he should, I thought. I hoped that any errands he might be given were not dangerous.

There was no one at breakfast other than myself. Still, there was plenty prepared and a still-tired Paolo served me poached eggs and kidneys with the soft white bread delivered each morning from a baker's nearby. I asked him if he had enjoyed the Ball. He smiled and said he liked the music but had been kept busy serving the supper and helping to clear away after. There was still some clatter and he said the small tables and extra chairs were being collected as they were needed by another family for their own entertainment tonight.

I had almost finished a second plate with ham slices and a capon's leg when my father appeared. He groaned. Not because I was there but he said his feet ached and he had drunk too much of the champagne which had made a deal of gas in his stomach. It was provident that Paolo had gone out to bring in another dish of eggs as he shifted on his chair and outdid Mr Plummeridge at least in the loudness of the fart he produced. I dared not laugh. "Boy, it is uncommon for you not to have commented," he said as he shifted again and a second, slightly quieter bass trumpet was heard. "Let it be a warning to you, do not take more than four or five glasses of that delightful brew."

"I think I had three," I said, "How many did you have?"

He grunted. "Sometimes boys ask the stupidest questions. Do you think I counted them up on my fingers?"

"And toes?"

Paolo reappeared at that moment. I knew I would get a rejoinder at some time. Father pointed at the assembled dishes as Paolo looked at him and lifted a plate. "Something from each to start as I intend to spend the morning riding." He turned to me. "And you are entertaining so your mother says."

I explained that Aunt Fanny had invited the Harrison boys and I had a present from Philip Goodhew of a drawing for John Harrison and I thought I might let the other two choose one each of the books I had from the shop but I would have to ask Uncle Digby's permission for that.

He nodded. "As long as it is not that Diary of Mr Pepys. I want to read that once we are home though I might look at it on Thursday when you and your mother are at that concert. That is, if your uncle does not want to play backgammon."

As he started eating I had another dish of the rather strange tea and shook my head when Paolo asked if I wanted more of the food. Father was eating steadily. "My sister Matty says she must do something for that boy. Fetch the drawing and let me see it."

I scurried off and brought down the roll of paper. I was instructed to flatten it as he did not want to touch it with greasy fingers. I said I had shown it to Uncle Digby and he had remarked how well it was drawn especially the way Philip had depicted the boy's hair.

My father felt in a pocket and brought out a magnifying glass. I knew he really needed spectacles but said this instrument was just as good as he didn't need to get close to a horse to judge it's capabilities.

He scanned the page for some time. He was nodding as he put the glass back in his pocket. "That boy has talent. His father can sketch and he has done paintings as well but I think young Philip has a master's touch already." He smiled. "Plans for him. Not only for Robin."

I wondered what that would mean.

Breakfast over and father was off. He said he was meeting one of Uncle Billy's officers who was going to take him on a circuit of Westminster to see all the new building on the outskirts of the City and then to luncheon at the gentleman's club. "I shall be out of the way so your mother can visit her shops. I am sure my pockets will be empty before this week is out!"

I was left to my own devices. Jabez had disappeared so I went up to my bedroom and had the luxury of using the jakes again. I had just finished when there was a rap on the door and the other two older Bartoli lads were there. They had to clear the hearth, stoke up the fire, make my bed and generally clean the room. I asked if there were no parlourmaids to do these jobs and the older one smiled and said other than her Ladyship's and Miss Rosamund's personal maids all the household servants were male. I suppose I should have noted that from previous visits but being a boy I hadn't been aware of such things. Food and a bed to sleep in were all I needed and however such things were prepared, served or cleaned would not be of interest. Now I was older I was noticing more and thinking more.

To keep out of their way as they carried out their duties I fetched my cloak and hat and went out to the mews. It was a hive of activity. Rowley was there brushing down one of the greys and Natty was busy polishing an array of harness. Two young stablelads were wheeling out a laden barrow of straw and muck. I watched as they went off into the side road. Rowley saw me looking. "There's no good midden here or a field to spread it on," he said. "Mr Churcher says unless they find a way of taking all that away the place'll soon be buried in it especially with all those Hackney cabs and omnibuses they've got as well."

I said I'd noted the crossing sweepers and the piles against the kerbs. "It ain't only that," he said, he lowered his voice, "Think of all the piss as well. I reckon each of these makes a good gallon or two o' that which they collect here for some stinking tannery by the river but many just let loose in the street. It's that and some twenty pounds of shit a day from every horse. No wonder the whole place reeks and that's from me and I've been with horses since I can remember."

"And this is winter-time," I said, "What's it like in high summer?" My previous visits had always been around Easter time but knowing what our big midden was like in the heat, flies and all, London must be one awful stench. He'd said about collecting all the piss. I knew there was a collection from the houses in our village for the cloth making and the fulling mill in a nearby village. Luckily there was no tannery near us but I had smelled the one we had passed on our way to Ashbourne.

"Mr Churcher says most of the gentry leave and it's just the poor buggers like us that are left." Rowley grinned at me. "I'll be more than glad to leave this place. It's interesting, but not for the likes o' me. Anyway, my instructions are to take you to Gower Street this afternoon. I know that so I don't think you'll be lost."

"And you'll have Natty with you as a guide," I said as the lad was all ears with what had been said.

"Oh, Master Tom, I would be so glad and I do know it. It's by that museum place and if I'm allowed Mr Churcher says young William can show it me. He says it's full of wonders."

"You'll beat me then, Natty. I haven't been inside it yet. You must tell me what to look for."

"I can go?"

"Of course. You deserve a bit of time other than riding on the coach. You've seen plenty being there."

He face was wreathed in a great smile. "I've seen so much I'll have to remember to tell my mother. She's been no further than Stamford and she thinks that's big enough. I do but dream about what I've seen here. And last night with all the gentry and their coaches I could never imagine it. Your Uncle must be so famous. I hear there were Lords and Ladies aplenty."

I couldn't disappoint the lad. "There were one or two, and a Duchess." I felt in the pocket of my jacket in which I had placed the three small packets she had given me. "She gave me these," I said, taking out two, "I think you and Rowley should have one each."

I handed them to them. Rowley smiled and put his away. Natty turned his over and over. "From a Duchess," he breathed, "I must give this to my mother. She'd never 'a believe me." Rowley, bless his generous heart, took out his packet.

"Here, Natty, you have mine. You deserve one if you are keeping that for your mother."

"Rowley, I was given three and I still have another from the other day when she was here for the dinner. You have this one." I handed over the third.

That reminded me. If the boys were visiting perhaps they might prefer sweetmeats rather than a book and I would have to take something for Mrs Bayes.

I asked Rowley if he knew of a shop where I could buy some things like these before the boys arrived. He nodded. "I know just the place. There is a confectioner's in a big shop on Piccadilly and it will take no time to ride there. Let me get Mr Churcher's permission to take you there. You must ask your uncle or mother as well."

I went back indoors and the door to Uncle Digby's study was open and he was already there with Topping. I tapped on the door and was welcomed in. Of course, I was asked if I had enjoyed the Ball. I said I had and had been commanded by my Uncle Billy to be on parade on Wednesday. They both laughed and Uncle Digby said that should be some experience. I then explained why I had disturbed them. Uncle said he had every faith in Rowley's ability to see I got what I wanted and he and Mr Topping were very partial to peppermint humbugs!

I scurried off to my room and retrieved my purse and took two half sovereigns in my pocket. On returning to the mews I found that Natty was already saddling my Blaze who neighed as soon as I appeared and stamped a front hoof almost in greeting. Rowley was preparing his mount and we were soon off. It took no more than a few minutes to reach Piccadilly riding into Hertford Street and Down Street. Rowley pointed out the shop I needed and said he would get a boy to hold the horses and would come to the shop with me. The lad he chose looked quite raggedy but I noted his hands and face were clean. I just hoped our horses would be there when we returned!

Rowley led me into a large shop and pointed to where the sweetmeats were. I had never seen so many different kinds before spread out here under glass-topped counters or in serried ranks of labelled jars. None were like the poor specimens I was used to at home. I started by asking for the peppermint humbugs and bought a whole pound. I saw packets of chocolate like the ones the Duchess handed out and asked for a dozen. There was an array of boxes of bonbons and I chose one which I could give to Mrs Bayes and then picked out a selection of other sweets for the Harrison boys and to take home for Robin and his brothers. My purchases were wrapped and a very solemn-looking Rowley took charge of them. I felt very rich when I handed over a half-sovereign and received a handful of change. Shopping in London seemed quite different from the dingy shops in Careby.

The boy was standing there talking softly to the two horses. They were quiet and he had done his job well. He looked no more than twelve or so and I wondered if he had ever had any schooling and what prospects he might have. I gave Rowley a silver threepenny piece and said the boy deserved it. I think Rowley thought it too much but handed it to the boy whose face lit up in a smile. He bowed his head and thanked us profusely but his London accent was hard to follow. As we rode back to Charles Street by a different route Rowley said he was always amazed how many boys there were ready to hold horses or to sweep at crossings and had wondered what positions they might have when grown. I felt I should learn more about how ordinary people lived. I knew I was supposed to be gentry and my station in life would be mapped out if I studied at Cambridge and became a physician. I supposed my life was easy. I wondered what a poor boy like that would make of his life.

I was brought to earth very suddenly as before we turned along Half Moon Street we had to stop as a richly ornamented hearse with two coffins in it, one large and one much smaller, approached very slowly. Three mutes preceded it carrying staves festooned with large black bows. Their tall hats had swathes of black ribbon hanging from them. The hearse was followed by four coaches with black blinds covering the windows and the horses were also draped in black. We raised our hats and bowed our heads and could hear a church bell tolling some way in the distance. As we set off again Rowley was shaking his head. "It's not only the poor where tragedy strikes. I wager that was a mother and a child and I caught a glimpse of the grieving husband in the first coach with two older children. Mr Churcher says many have been taken with the cholera in London this year. That woman I took back to Boston had lost more than those two in Careby. Her mother said there were two others died before they were a year or so. She said that man was a wastrel and she hoped he wouldn't make the journey to Boston but she would see her daughter and the other children wouldn't end in the Poor House."

I was lost for words. I had wondered about the scrofulous boy. Lancelot said there was no known cure, just superstition. I knew people died at all ages. The church bell tolled most weeks for someone. Mostly they were older people, like old man Jennings, but I had known young men who had died through accidents especially where heavy wagons had rolled over them, or a horse had bolted and kicked out. I had heard of cholera and the fever which set in so quickly at any age. But there were those who seemed just to waste away. Mother Caudle's youngest daughter had grown steadily weaker even though I knew Aunt Matty had taken good broths and nourishing foods to try to strengthen her. Lancelot had said he thought it was a malady of the blood but knew of no good treatment. Though she had been a grown girl in her twenties it took only two men to carry her coffin from the lych gate into the church. Lancelot was quite open about his inability to treat many things especially fevers though he made sure all the children in the village were given the vaccine to prevent the smallpox. I had the scar on my arm as did Robin and his brothers. Lancelot had said that Good Queen Bess had caught that disease and covered the pits on her face with white plaster. The lady at the Ball had her face whitened but Branscombe had said it was because she had been burned.

I was glad when we reached Charles Street and Uncle Digby's house. I had presents to hand out later and Rowley gave me the parcels when we had dismounted and a stablelad had taken hold of Blaze's rein. I couldn't reward either yet as the parcels were tightly secured with fine string and my fingers were cold. After getting rid of my cloak and hat I carried them up to my room and managed to untie them. I laid my purchases out. Perhaps Uncle Digby and Mr Topping wouldn't want a whole pound of humbugs so I set out six for each of them. I thought two each plus a packet of chocolate for the Harrison boys would suffice so I put the rest of the goods in the closet on a shelf.

I went down to see if Uncle Digby was not too busy and to find out the time. I had the twelve wrapped humbugs in a piece of the paper they were originally in. The clock in the hallway said half past ten so I would soon have to be ready to meet the boys. Aunt Fanny said they should come for morning tea. Where could I take them in the house? How long could they stay? Should they meet my mother and the others? Would there be some sustenance for them? I also remembered that Branscombe might need a bed. Questions for uncle to answer. He was alone when I rapped on the open door. He, as usual, was busy with papers and documents but he waved me in.

"My work never stops," he said as he pushed the document he was reading aside. "Pull the bell-rope, please, I need some tea." I did as bid and then set my package on his desk.

"As requested," I said, "Peppermint humbugs. Mr Topping is not here but I would like him to have some, too."

Uncle unwrapped the paper and laughed. "These are surely my favourite and I haven't had one for some years." He looked closely at the wrapping around one. "Oh, Fortnum's I see, I am privileged.! You have certainly shopped with the nobility and gentry." He pointed to the printing on the piece of paper. He must have seen my rather dejected look. Was he making fun of me? "You did well entering there. It is a temple to luxury and visited by all who wish to make the best purchases. Your Aunt cannot pass it without seeing what new delights they have." He smiled. "Half for me and half for him, eh?" I nodded. All was well.

"Uncle, the boys are due at eleven. Where may I take them?"

"I would say the parlour. Your aunt said she would receive them there with some delicacies as she knows boys are always hungry. But bring them here first and we can present the lad with his drawing. I want to compare the two."

One of the older Bartoli boys appeared. He must have known what the signal was as he was carrying a tray of tea things.

"Paolo, is all prepared for the visit this morning?"

Paolo bowed his head as he placed the tray on the desk. "Sir, all is ready. Our instruction is there should be sufficient for four boys and to wait for the bell from the parlour." He poured a cup, turned and left.

Four boys! And sustenance! Yes, I was always hungry! Uncle grinned at me.

"I assume you have something for the others as well as the drawing for the young one. They can also choose a couple of books each from here." He indicated the heaps and the filled bookcases. "And you had better remove that stupid piece of gauze from my favourite statue or they might think I'm an old prude!"

Yes, Curly was still sporting the flimsy covering to his young prick.

"And I suppose you will tell them of Terence's tale?"

My gills reddened as he made stroking movements with his hand in the air.

He laughed, not I hoped at my discomfiture. "Terence was told the same when he was a young lad. I had to scold Mr Tuckwell for telling him that story but we have laughed about it many times since with him. Poor Terence was seen rubbing vigorously after that on several occasions and he did confess he had told you the same. Am I not right?"

"Yes, uncle," I said and could hardly suppress a grin.

He grinned, too. "We knew. A little hair powder doesn't fall away on it's own accord. Hair powder is very useful. It can show if a door handle has been turned or a window latch disturbed. It can tell if a key has been used from a bunch. As I have said before, it is the little things which can be noticed and can inform."

I would retaliate. "Uncle, does that mean your nephews have been spied on?"

He laughed. "Touch my fine fellow! I think I may have met my match!"

"Uncle, I would be willing to learn from all your experience. I can see that ruse would be most useful. I will remember it."

He waved his hand at me. "Bring all you need down here and don't tarry as I'm sure they will be spot on time."

So, I had been led astray by Terence, who had been cozened himself, and my actions had been noted. I would have to take more note of what people say and what might follow. However, I thought I was learning fast!

I went upstairs and retrieved the drawing and the assembled sweetmeats. On returning I found Uncle Digby had finished his tea and the tray was gone. I put my parcel and the paper-roll on the space. It was the only clear place on the desk and I noticed the humbugs had gone. Into a drawer I supposed. I then asked about accommodation for Branscombe. He said Mr Topping would deal with that. Quick instructions were given when Mr Topping appeared. He said he would send a stablelad with an invitation to come as soon as he wanted later this afternoon after his parents had left London on their return to Canterbury. A room would be prepared. I would have Jabez as my valet but he could also act as Branscombe's valet as well if Mehmet was not available.

We had just finished when the hall clock struck eleven and I heard the front door being opened. There was a gentle hubbub as coats and hats were doffed. I was standing by the desk when Mr Pembridge came to the door.

"Master Arthur, Master Edward and Master John Harrison, sir," he intoned, not quite as unctuously as Mr Tolliver at the Ball.

The three boys looked slightly nervous as they were ushered into the room. They looked at Uncle Digby, then at me and then three sets of eyes stared for a moment at the now undraped Curly. It was young John who broke the silence.

"Sir, we are very pleased to be invited. My brother Arthur has a small present for Lady Wright." His eldest brother made a movement to silence him but Uncle Digby smiled.

"Of course you are welcome. I am sorry I was not able to meet you at the Cathedral but we had better make proper introductions. As you have guessed I am Tom's Uncle." He laughed. "And for that matter I am Robin's great-uncle."

The eldest boy stepped forward. "May I introduce myself and my brothers, sir. I am Arthur," He bowed his head, "My brother Edward," He bowed his head, too. Young John was not going to wait.

"And, sir, I am John who is always being told to behave and keep quiet." He bowed his head and grinned at the same time. From the looks the other two had on their faces young John would be dealt with later.

I thought I had better say something. "And you know I'm Tom."

Arthur had a small parcel. "Sir, my mother sent this. I think it is a preserve for which our cook is renowned."

Uncle pointed to the desk. "Leave it here for a moment if you can find a space. We will be going along to the parlour soon and my wife will be there but Tom has something to deal with first."

I picked up the roll of paper and flattened it and almost knocked a pile of papers on the floor as I spread it on the table. The boys came forward to look. I did, too. The likeness was there. Young Philip had caught John's look exactly. There was no doubt who the boy depicted was. My Uncle was looking from the boy to the drawing. He shook his head. "That boy has great talent," he murmured. "You must treasure that," he said more loudly.

"I will, sir," the lad said, "That is a present far beyond anything I have ever known."

"I feel quite envious," Arthur said, "Philip did draw all three of us together but to have such as a present is most generous. I will see it is kept safely."

Uncle said we should go along to the parlour. Pembridge wheeled Uncle Digby out and we followed. Aunt Fanny, my mother and Rosamund were waiting seated on chairs by a table covered with tapestry and other needlework.

More introductions ensued with the handing over of Mrs Harrison's present. Within moments trays were brought in and tea and the most delectable tidbits were handed round. Yes, boys are always hungry and there was little talk until much had been consumed.

The boys were used to adult company so were soon chatting and I found that Mrs Harrison and Aunt Fanny sat on the same charitable committee and Rosamund knew a cousin of theirs who had taken dancing lessons with the same master. My mother must have approved of them as she said they should visit Careby in the Summer. Edward said he would be very glad to be in the country as London was most uncomfortable when it was hot. I forbore from asking if it was because of the stink of horse shit as I was being on my best behaviour. I liked the boys, too, and I hoped they might be able to visit.

All too soon it was midday and the boys had to leave. We went back to Uncle Digby's study and I handed over my parcel of humbugs and chocolate which were accepted with smiles of delight. My uncle said the boys should choose any books they wanted and their eyes opened wide and there was quite a scramble. I saw John choose a book of printed drawings from the British Museum as well as a book of engines and another of boats. The others picked books which would be useful at school they said. John screwed up his nose at them when they said that. "I can borrow them as well," he said, "They won't be reading them all the time."

John's parting words as he solemnly shook hands with my uncle as they said farewell were "I like your statue and I expect Philip would like to draw him. He did one of me like that but he tore it up." I wondered if young John's pizzle was more sizable and if he smiled when he stroked it, sans hair powder!

To be continued.

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