Tom Brownings Schooldays

Tom Browning's Schooldays

By

Joel

Chapter FortyFive

Mr Pretyman smiled at us and then turned and went to the Masters' seats. I looked at Robin. He shrugged his shoulders. I could but surmise Mr Pretyman's instruction was in some way connected with young Freddy Neville. Perhaps he was not pleased that Freddy's grandfather allowed him to bring Prince to Ashbourne. It would be no expense to the school for the keep of the horse as the Colonel had given me a sealed note for Mr Darlow which I had passed to him when we arrived. It would be a promise to pay any expense. Also Natty was to be the groom in charge of our mounts and, like Robin before him, there would be a sum added to our accounts for his board and wages.

Before then we had our supper to enjoy. Tonight it was slices of fowl in a buttery sauce with sizeable baked potatoes. These were as I liked them and when cut open soaked up the sauce most admirably. Another favourite followed for the serving-boys brought out platters of slices of treacle tart which were oven hot and could not be eaten until cooled somewhat. Some of the unwary burned their tongues which had to be assuaged with mighty draughts of the small beer or plain water. Luckily George was not amongst the swearers as a few oaths were heard from those who stuffed their faces quickly. He was busy telling Maitland that he had completed his construe and calculations. Maitland was nodding his head and saying he had also made a good effort and smiled at Robin across the table. I guessed that Robin had been instrumental in that task. I heard then that Maitland's father had numerous hives set up as he had a great faith in bees and the production of their honey.

I was always rather wary of bees and more so of wasps. Our orchard had a a number of hives which Humbles the village beekeeper kept in trim. I had watched him many times with a clay pipe in his mouth blowing the smoke into an opened hive to extract the trays of honey-filled wax. He was a strange man who had many tales of the ways of bees. He was in charge of many other hives than his own and said if an owner died then the bees had to be told or they would swarm and go elsewhere. I had asked Lancelot if this was true and he said he was not sure but it was a common saying which all beekeepers vowed was a rule they had to follow.

Maitland then said he had brought two jars of honey which would be useful not only to sweeten our porridge but to ease a sore throat. I said honey was best mixed with a little vinegar if the cough was bad as it first eased the phlegm and then the soreness. He waved his hands at me and said he would be first to be treated if I knew that and other cures. Gordon was sitting next to him and said he trusted me as I had eased his swollen ankle. I thought I had better keep my mouth shut or my time would be taken being consulted about aches and pains. Still, if I wished to be a physician all this would be good experience. I would have to take care I did not make any mistakes. I knew there was a notebook in my box in which Lancelot had written the most common complaints and the questions I should ask before making a judgement.

Seeing Mr Pretyman leave as he shepherded the Pups and Whelps to their part of the House I and Robin followed him after saying we had been instructed to do so but that we would be back soon enough to partake of whatever was to be offered. I received a slap to my buttocks for that as I passed Cedric Branscombe.

Freddy and Lawson as two of the bigger boys were in the last ranks and as we approached Freddy turned and smiled at us. He and Lawson and another boy were then in earnest conversation until Mr Pretyman hearing them held up an admonitory finger. I surmised it was a rule they had to be silent on their way to and fro.

We waited just inside the closed porch as the lads filed in and were directed to their bedrooms by Mr Pretyman and their Matron. We saw two of the older serving-boys carrying clean chamber pots into the rooms as well. Once the boys were settled Mr Pretyman beckoned us in. His outer and inner rooms were quite spacious except his sitting room was filled with shelves of books with many others on the side tables or heaped on the floor. It reminded me of Uncle Digby Wright's study except there was no Curly! He motioned us to sit but like in Uncle Dodd's study Robin had to move an open book from the chair.

Mr Pretyman was straight to the point. "I understand you conducted young Neville from his grandfather's care to the School. I must say he is full of praise for your kindness. However, I am quite concerned he was allowed to bring his horse with him. In most circumstances boys are only allowed to stable their mounts when in middle school or above. I have found Mr Ridley gave special permission as the boy's father is concerned that the boy is too over-ruled by his mother. I tell you this in confidence, you understand?"

I nodded but Robin was more forthright. "Sir, Neville has told us of his mother's strictures on him and we noted how much he has enjoyed being with his grandfather. The horse was a special gift from his grandfather and should not be a difficulty being here. Prince will be well-looked after by our groom and I am sure Colonel Neville will have made provision for the care and keep."

Mr Pretyman looked at him keenly. I hoped that Robin had not overstepped any mark with being outspoken then he smiled.

"I am glad you know the circumstances and have told me so straightforwardly. I now have a request of you and Master Browning. Neville is a good pupil but is rather unsure of himself. He has good friends but like all young lads they can be mischievous and try to be older than their years." He looked at me as I was smiling, too.

"Sir, I witnessed the setting fire to the hayrick. Master Neville said he and the others were rightly punished."

Mr Pretyman laughed. "Perhaps I was a little hasty and four cuts each might have been excessive but it quietened the whole tribe for at least a week. It was a necessary action, though." I did not say it was most probably because Mr Gresham would have had cause to make a great complaint but reports back to him of the punishment would be sufficient to quieten him. He continued. "What I would ask would be your assistance in allowing Neville to ride out with you on occasion. I would prefer it to be with you though I know he would be safely looked after by any of the grooms if they were in charge of him. I hope you would not consider this to be an imposition but I think you would be allowed more time for this favourite pursuit."

Robin was more forward than me again. "Sir, I am sure we could manage him and see he comes to no harm. He showed he is becoming a steady rider on our journey here..."

Mr Pretyman laughed. "...But he did not ride the whole distance, eh?"

We could not lie! "He was very sore after the first day," I said. I grinned. "My cousin's best liniment was applied but we let him travel on the coach the next day. He could become a good coachman, too. He did ride the third morning when we were near the School."

Mr Pretyman was smiling broadly. "He confessed to me all that you have told. He had many good words to say about his fine treatment. Mr Martin tells me you wish to be a physician."

"Sir, that is so, I have had good instruction from my cousin who is our physician and he has encouraged me on that path."

Mr Pretyman nodded then turned to Robin. "And you, Master Goodhew, what is your ambition?"

Robin smiled. "To succeed as best I can at whatever I am able to do well. I cannot make any decision yet as I am only just embarking on what must be for me a great expedition."

"That is a most agreeable answer to a rather impertinent question," Mr Pretyman said, "Please be assured your Masters here have only your best interests at heart. I hear you are to be under the Reverend Martin and Mr Dimbleby as well. You will not be wanting in good instruction." He looked from Robin to me. "Remember, both of you, I am also here to help if there are things which you wish to discuss or have explained." He waved his hand indicating the loaded bookshelves. "There are many books here which need to be explored. Perhaps not many a young physician might need but there is much of general as well as more special interest for any seeker after knowledge." He laughed. "I sound like a rather poor preacher, eh? You do agree, though, that you would take good care of young Frederick?"

I was surprised he used his Christian name as it was the first time I had heard a Master do so for any of us. We both nodded and more or less together said we would.

"It just remains to make arrangements, then," he said. "I will make sure your own time is not hampered or lessened by your kindness. He is a good boy and has shown he has a good intellect as well, though we must not let him know that opinion." He stood and we did, too. "Thank you for agreeing. I bid you goodnight." He led us to the outside door where we found our caps and cloaks and silently we made our way back to the entrance of our part of the House.

We did not speak but made a diversion to the bushes beside the path. We both had a need to piss and did not wish to visit the dark and uninviting privy and the stinking trough! Our task finished we made our way to the door. We went through and passed Pullen's lair. He was sitting there with a tankard of some brew in his hand. His glance at us was merely cursory though he did shake his head after we passed. Perhaps in his maudlin state he thought he was seeing double! As we reached the top passageway we could hear laughter and talking from the end room. Robin whispered. "If it means more opportunity to ride I would accept that task."

"I would agree," I said in slightly louder tones. "I don't think young Freddy would be a burden and I am sure that George and Maitland would not begrudge him riding with us at times. I will speak with Natty tomorrow and make sure Prince is readied whenever the horse is needed." I remembered I had promised Natty some paper to write to his mother so I would take that to him as soon as breakfast was finished.

Robin reiterated that he was happy to comply with Mr Pretyman's request. "It would also mean an entry to that library of his. I would be happy to explore there."

We parted and he went to the noisy room. The door to my room was locked so George and Theo were already enjoying the others' company. I left my cap and cloak and checked that the fire was banked and not spitting sparks and went out locking the door again. On knocking at the end room a cheery voice bade me enter. The room seemed full of bodies and there was a cheerful fug of hot toddy, hot boy and a sweet cheroot which was being brandished by Collett. A pewter pot was thrust at me having been filled from a kettle resting on a trivet by the fire.

I looked around and there were nine of us now sprawled, standing or seated. I tasted the hot brew and gasped. It was a strong peppermint cordial with something added and really warmed me as it passed down my gullet. I said nothing though a couple of hands drew me in as Robin was telling of our meeting with Mr Pretyman.

Maitland was most sincere when Robin finished. "You will do well with Mr Pretyman," he said, "He is a good man and has many interests. My first fag-master Cobbold was kin to him and spent much time with all those books of his. He is at Cambridge now and will be a dry and dusty don there I am sure." He held up his pint pot. "I malign him. He was most merry when a little spirit passed his lips and he had plenty of old country songs to sing."

George laughed. "They were not always for the ears of us young lads. D'you remember 'Oh, when I was a bachelor early and young'? He burst into song and in his good voice sang that line and then continued:

"'I followed the weaving trade

All the harm that ever I done

Was in courtin' a fair young maid.

I courted her in the summertime,

And all through the winter too,

And the only thing I ever did wrong

Was to to save her from the foggy, foggy dew.'"

Everyone cheered when he got to the end of the verse and a couple banged their tankards on the table. There was a rapping on the wall from at least one of the inhabitants in the next room.

Maitland had been singing along with the last few lines and was grinning broadly. "That's a fine old song. Cobbold said he had heard an old man sing it in the local tavern in his village somewhere Suffolk way." He laughed. "But you can't have that at the Sing-Song, George. Remember those last lines..." Here he song out lustily:

"Now I am a bachelor and I live with my son

And we works at the weaving trade.

But ev'ry single time that I look into his eyes

He reminds me of that fair young maid..."

He stopped and looked at Robin. He need not have worried as Robin was not disconcerted but was smiling.

"I have not heard that song but it only tells of what has befallen many," Robin said and raised his own tankard.

I looked at Branscombe who nodded. He had a 'cousin' and I still had not told Robin of what I had learned about Aunt Fanny and Mr Tuckwell. But then I could not tell him as Uncle Digby had instructed me not to do so!

George had also noted the possible faux pas and Robin's dismissal of it. He looked at me and smiled. "There is another sweet song Cobbold used to sing. He said he got it from a broadsheet his father had purchased in London. It will be most appropriate for me as it is called 'Seventeen on Sunday'."

Theo laughed. "That is true and I have not forgotten it." He stood up from his seat by the table. "For the benefit of all who do not know, my good friend here, the Honourable George Marchbanks Lascelles will be that ripe old age of seventeen on Sunday the twenty- first of January in the Year of our Lord eighteen hundred and forty-four!"

Branscombe clapped George on the back after we had raised our tankards and brayed our congratulations. "I knew it was near and as we are having such a celebration I hear after the Sing-Song would it be too much to indulge ourselves again on the Sabbath?"

"I venture we combine the two," said Collett who seemed very merry already this evening and was clearly enjoying his posset and his cheroot. "We would be less likely to incur the wrath of the Godly ones below us if we celebrated tomorrow."

'Godly ones'? I surmised they meant Porter and Frobisher who were in the Sixth and were Praepostors. I had only seen them walking down the stairs to the diningroom, hearing them rattling their canes on the banisters to warn us of lights-out, or looking sternly at us in Chapel as we entered and left. Both had black trimmed beards and wore top hats which were never at a jaunty angle like those of many of the senior pupils. They did not join in football or the Hare and Hounds meets and were followed around by their fag who seemed as morose as they. He was at least George's age and sat on the second table at our meals with scarcely a smile on his face and, I think, was in Mr Carstairs' room for his lessons. I think his name was Laidlaw and someone had said he was an Archdeacon's son and destined for the Church.

"Oh, you mean Prots and Frobs," said Maitland, "They're probably deep in prayer hearing us enjoying ourselves anyway. They certainly won't be attending the Sing-Song as they have special permission to visit that ranting Tabernacle in Ashbourne on a Saturday evening and they drag poor Laidlaw along with them."

"Are they Dissenters?" I asked, wondering if they were of Zebediah's ilk. I also doubted that the Tabernacle mentioned was the one Shem attended as that was not in the town.

Maitland grunted. "Only for the last two years. They're all clergymen's sons but the pair went to a revival meeting on the green in Ashbourne and are holier-than-thou now. Laidlaw was dragooned to be their fag and is so under their influence he's no longer the lively lad he was before. He's in Carstairs' room and I am told he never says a word and Carstairs lets him be."

George went to the kettle and replenished his tankard. "Let's give them something else to be holy about. We'll celebrate tomorrow night but I wish to hear Maitland sing now." He waved his tankard. "Come on, my lad, let's hear about the pretty fair maid! You know all the words and I'll join in when I can."

I had been unaware that Maitland also had a fine voice and he showed his prowess at singing as he started the song and George joined in.

'How old are you my pretty fair maid,

How old are you, my honey?

She answered me right cheerfully,

I'm seventeen come Sunday...

Maitland held up a finger and pointed at George who sang the second stanza by himself:

Will you take a man, my pretty fair maid,

Will you take a man, my honey?

She answers me most girlishly,

I dare not for my mummy...

Maitland held his face in his hands as if wearing a bonnet and the next verse was his:

But if you come round to mummy's house,

When the moon shines bright and clearly,

I will come down and let you in,

And my mummy will not hear ye...

It was George's turn again...

So I went down to mummy's house,

When the moon shone bright and clearly,

She did come down and let me in,

And I lay in her arms most dearly...

They both sang the last lines...

So now she has her soldier-man,

And her ways they are quite winning,

A bonny bairn sits by her side,

And she sings to him while spinning.'

There was quite an uproar of clapping and whistling as the pair bowed and then raised their tankards.

Angus Gordon was laughing most heartily. "Aye, 'tis a merry song wi' nae a doubt and many's the bairn like that. Is'nae a verse to begin wi' a sodger-lad?"

Maitland nodded. "That's true but the verse we started with tells her age." He laughed. "I cannot say I know many wenches of that age...."

"...Nor have you known any, eh?" asked Collett most lewdly, I thought.

Maitland held up a finger. "I confess that is not within my experience yet." He lapsed into silence and Collett did not continue. George was looking between me and Robin to see if we were perturbed by the exchanges. It was Theo who then spoke.

"Angus, will we see you with the swords tomorrow?" Gordon thrust up a leg and wriggled the foot and ankle I had anointed and then nodded. "Why, then," Theo continued, "Perhaps we might hear a Scotch tune or two now." This was directed at me.

"I will fetch my flute," I said putting my tankard on the hearth, "But Robin will play as well." I grinned at him and scurried from the room before he could say anything. I could hear a general hubbub from the room as I retreated down the passageway. My flute-box was ready on the shelf so it took just a few moments for me to retrieve it and rush back to the other room. Robin had his violin case open and everyone was staring as he deftly tuned the strings even without the fork he had been given. My flute was soon assembled and I blew an A which he also bowed and we were together.

I mouthed to him 'the Reel' and we set off and soon all were clapping or stamping their feet to the rhythm with Gordon leading us all with his finger waving in the air. We played the tune twice and there was even more noise when we finished. The commotion had roused neighbours to investigate so there were thumps on the door and another six or so tried to gain entry.

"What's all this?" demanded a big lad who was said to be a mighty cricketer and was in the next room to Maitland and company. "I thought the Sing-Song was tomorrow night?"

Over much noisy repartee they were invited to bring in beakers or tankards and the kettle was drained. As the crush was rather great Robin and I went into the passageway as neither of us wanted our instruments damaged by flailing arms or clumsy bodies.

"A quieter tune," Robin said and began the first few notes of 'Fairest Isle'. The effect was almost immediate. The din subsided and many began to hum along. Robin grinned at me and shook his head. "That has soothed our savage beasts." I wasn't certain if that was correct as Uncle Dodd had quoted with a different word when the chatter dwindled if my mother played her fortepiano after our evening dinner at times. I wondered where Robin might have heard it?

During our time outside the room the kettle must have been replenished and more rum and peppermint toddy was being heated by the fire. It was quite stiflingly hot in the room so the door was left wide open and still more came along exploring what was happening. Of course, the first announcement to all was that it was to be George's birthday on Sunday and there would be a great celebration after the Sing-Song. From the grins and looks between our fellows I surmised there would be liquor and tidbits in abundance. We heard two others would be celebrating their fifteenth or sixteenth birthdays in the coming week. Lewdness was in the air as remarks were made that May must have been a warm month in all those years. I did not dare say that March last year was a cool month but did not prevent Lemuel Thatcher making merry with Sarah Rogers!

Our evening's merriment was drawn to a close as ten o'clock drew near. There was a sharp rapping of canes on the stairway and Branscombe let fly with a quite fervent oath directed at Frobisher and Porter whose ears would have shrivelled if they had heard it. They, of course, were exercising their duties as Praepostors to see we were settled ready for bed. All laughed and as each filed out to go to their rooms Robin and I were congratulated on our playing. Angus Gordon, with Aubrey Byers and Collett were the last to leave and Angus said he hoped we could play for Farquar and him tomorrow afternoon. Robin grimaced as George had said there was hope for a game of football. But then, Chapman the accordion player would probably not know the new melodies and he would have to attend, too.

George was in quite a merry mood though he had not taken enough to be drunk. As we stripped ready for bed instead of putting on his nightshirt he donned the striped football shirt I had given him. This, of course, was shorter than his nightshirt so he was displaying his now quite hefty drooping cock and ballocks. Theo was shaking his head. "George, dear boy," he said quietly, "That is to be worn when exercising your prowess with a single ball..." Oh, so Theo was capable of a mild lewdness as well. This only caused George to cavort more and to sing the first verse of 'Seventeen come Sunday' again. A rapping on the wall silenced him and with a grin he stripped quite naked and his nightshirt was pulled over his head. "Bed!" he announced but helped me arrange my truckle bed. He pulled up the coverlet, saw my washcloth secreted there, sniffed and made a wry face but said nothing. I knew what he meant!

After Theo had extinguished the candles he said the usual short prayer and my second night of my second term began. I waited and for sure there were the usual sounds from above. What could a young boy do but join in?

I do not know how George could judge the time so precisely. It was a minute or so before the clock struck six that my covers were pulled off me and I was rolled onto the floor. Theo was complaining as he said he was awoken from a wonderful dream. George said there was no time to dream as he felt his stomach was somewhat disordered after three tankards of Maitland's brew and the cake he had consumed as well. Theo was quite forthright and warned him I was not to physick him if he over-indulged this night after the Sing-Song. He might be seventeen on Sunday but there had to be a limit to what he swallowed whether solid or liquid.

George turned on Theo and held him over the bed and pulled his nightshirt up and restrained him by laying almost over him so he was fully displayed. Even in the dim morning light I could see that Theo was well-made and as George tickled him so he flopped from side to side and gradually thickened until he was upright.

"That is your lesson for today," George said, "Do not complain. We shall still be first down, so up, my lad, and you can lead the way and we can follow that fine signpost!"

I had not experienced Theo being treated in this way before but he had obviously enjoyed George's handling. He hurriedly pulled off his nightshirt and his lengthy 'signpost' was soon covered by his trousers and shirt. As usual we were first in the privy though George had delayed his arrival by waking at least three other rooms. Once ensconced the noise which came from George's stall was evidence that his stomach had been somewhat disordered but was now free of any discomfort from the pleased sighs which we also heard.

Young Potts had plenty of hot water ready and was enjoined by George to make sure there was a good supply in the copper if the football game took place in the afternoon. "Thet'll be roight heated for thee, Mr Lascelles," he said, "Thet auld snow be all but gorn and thet'll be a mess o'mud I warrant."

George would not be put off by a layer of mud as we had witnessed before. Theo held up a finger. "You are to bathe completely if you play or no one will wish to be near you at the Sing-Song."

George gave him a good-natured sneer. "I shall use that fine soap our youngster has provided and you may sniff my armpits." Theo grimaced and continued washing.

"I hope there will be sufficient of that soap...," I started saying.

I was too near to avoid the flick to my rear from George's towel. "If I hear more I shall make you the judge before and after!"

Theo laughed. "Beware, Tom, he is powerfully un-fragrant as I am made aware quite often."

George just shook his head. "I am a boy and cannot help those odours. Good exercise makes for good sweat and that is not always sweet! Ha! That is also good! Sweat and sweet."

"That is alliteration," Theo said with a grin at me, "I swear our George is sweet without sweat."

He was the recipient of the towel flick this time but George was grinning, too. "Hurry and swiftly wash your swarthy arses or receive another switch!"

We were both impressed. Theo shook his head. "George, you always amaze me. There is more in your head than a good helping of pease porridge."

George had let his trousers down and after dousing his own arse liberally with the hot water in his basin he was now vigorously drying himself. "Though I say it myself there is more to this old carthorse than some would allow! Thank you for reminding me of what that rogue said about my thinking!"

I was too busy cleaning myself to make a remark but was struck by what George had just said. I could but surmise it was something the disgraced Master who had been George's Nemesis had said.

Poor Theo was contrite. "I am sorry George I should not have said that..."

George waved a dismissive hand. "...Worry not it is all in the past. That scoundrel has gone."

We were joined then by others who had been roughly awakened. George had his trousers still around his ankles which made him an easy target for several slaps to his well- formed buttocks. Angus Gordon was one who administered a couple as did the big cricketer who had spade-like hands.

George yelped and almost tripped as he jumped out of the way of more whacks. "Why punish me when you have profited from no stench?" He rubbed his bare backside. "Parkyn, I shall have your hand-prints for the next week I am sure!"

Parkyn turned to Angus Gordon. "You must lend him your Scotch kilt for tonight and as he twirls my handiwork might be displayed. You made a fine show when you danced that Reel last term!"

Of course, I was standing as I played whereas the spectators were seated and thus had a different view which must have included a display of thighs and buttocks. Oh! If buttocks were on show... My thoughts were interrupted then by the appearance of the trio from the end room. Robin looked only half awake. I wondered if he had imbibed more of the hot posset after we had left. Branscombe looked a little red-eyed and drowsy, too, though the usual quieter Maitland began whistling the tune of 'Seventeen Come Sunday' as soon as he saw George.

George was struggling to raise his trousers as another couple of slaps were administered this time by Maitland. "A fine piece of rump steak, that!" he averred, "You had better keep that well covered or Thacker might take a slice or two for delivery to a valued customer!"

"I'd pay seven good pence a pound for that," said Parkyn, "But it needs to be well- hung..."

That statement was greeted by a hoot of laughter from the older lads. I remembered what my brother had said! George was not outdone in repartee.

"Then we shall have to see what Mr Thacker can produce for this evening without recourse to my tenderest parts," he replied with a cursory wave of his hand. This produced more hoots.

"I wager any part of George would be as tough as old boots," said Branscombe. "Our cook has a good marinade, though, which softens meat enough even for my grandfather who has hardly a good tooth in his mouth."

"Branscombe," said George in as stern a voice as he could muster though he was grinning, "I must wish you well in your sea-faring days that you do not get ship-wrecked on a cannibal isle. I can see them all clamouring for a taste of a good Englishman fit for the pot!"

Branscombe bowed. "I thankee, George, for that compliment. But now I must cleanse myself if you haven't made use of all that hot water."

I was ready to depart but waited a moment as Branscombe finished washing and drying his hands. His trousers were carefully lowered but his shirt was too lengthy to allow a sight of his cods. I looked at Robin who nodded and winked. Oh, he knew!

George was also done and threw his towel at young Potts who caught it and nodded. It would be washed and dried ready for this afternoon if there was a game of football.

As we reached the entrance door Pullen was seated looking most sullen. George had a coin in his hand which he held up. Pullen removed his battered cap and George tossed the coin at him which he caught most adroitly even though his hand was quivering.

As we went up the second stair Theo said quietly. "That's a sign that the drink is taking him." He made the same movement of his right hand.

George was nodding. "Our factor dismissed one of our bricklayers after Christmas as he has the shakes even more. It is his boast he has drunk every man in Garthorpe and the next village under the table many times. It is a curse that so many of the workers spend so much time and money in the taverns and beer-houses." I knew my father and his overseers had very strict rules about workers who might drink to excess.

We had reached our room. Theo sat and poked at the embers of the fire. "We shall no doubt see some drunkenness tonight. I hear that Jopling and his friend Ormston have brought a good few bottles of brandy and claret between them to entertain those sots in Pratt's. It will stop the pair from being hounded by some of the ruffians there now Jack Lascelles is no longer a resident."

George gave a snort. "That cousin of mine did everyone a disservice by protecting that pair from Fairclough and his cronies last year and Jopling is every bit as evil now."

I had heard of Jopling being the instigator of such things as the bullying of Henderson in Bartleby's room but it seemed that he had been the target of bullies before. I had thought of Joplin as no more than a foppish fool. Would George say more? It was not to be as the talk then turned to what arrangements we should make for this evening. I would have to enquire another time.

We did a further calculation and decided that at least fifteen would need sustenance so eight pounds of Thacker's good sausages might suffice. Theo said he would see what tartlets and pastries Mrs Williams had in her shop. George said he would arrange for two gallons of sweet cordial to be supplied as well and there would be addition to that as promised by both Maitland and Gordon. There would also be small beer and cordial at supper and others would have their own supplies for the Sing-Song.

At breakfast there was much talk of the state of the football field. Winstanley was approached and said he would make a personal inspection to see whether it would be safe to kick and scrummage. There was also discussion of the Sing-Song and Winstanley was consulted again. He sent one of the monitors round to find who might contribute and there were approving looks when I said that Robin would also be playing for the Scotch dances and that we would play two or three other tunes if need be. Maitland was nudging George as he said he would open the Sing-Song with 'Hearts of Oak' as that was a great favourite of all.

We waited in the warmth of the diningroom until it was time to make our way to Chapel. The five-minute bell began to toll so we collected cloaks and hats and made our way along the wide path. As we approached the main door there were two or three standing and reading what was on the notice-board placed outside. This usually just displayed reminders of games to be played by the various Houses or announcements from one of the Masters who would be taking a catechism class. Today there was a special notice tacked there signed by the Headmaster.

'Special Commendation' it read:

'On Thursday last a most regrettable situation was brought to a satisfactory conclusion through the quick thinking and good efforts of two of my House.

I therefore commend Lascelles, G. M. and Maitland, G, T. for their actions.

A. Ridley, Headmaster.'

George and Theo were leading our group and there was a clamour from those already by the board wanting to know what it was all about. George shook his head as he read it.

"It was something anyone would do," he said quite softly.

Maitland had come up behind him. "You were brave, George." The questioning increased and more was needed. "Gresham's bull was loose and young lads were in danger. Mr Pretyman got them safely away but George kept the animal engaged until Gresham's hands came and dragged it off." There was an approving mutter from the listeners.

"But you, my dear fellow, ran like the wind to warn those lazy varmints!" George turned and spoke directly to Maitland. "If you had not found them quickly that maddened beast would have been through and causing havoc. No one is safe when bulls run amok."

We had to make way as a file of Pups and Whelps from at least two Houses were being shepherded by their Masters. Mr Pretyman then came in view with those from our House as well. As he came to the group by the board he pointed at it and smiled at George and Maitland. "You did well, thank you!" No more was said as we all had to enter the Chapel or be late!

The rest of the morning went quite speedily. Mr Martin gave us quite easy passages to construe and let us consult each other. Robin jabbed me in the ribs as I leaned over him to check what I had scribbled. He whispered that I should do my own work and not spy on his. I got my own back when we had a computation to do and the silly boy had copied down a six instead of an eight which I noted but did not tell him until he had tried to complete the sum.

Mr Martin allowed us out early as soon as we had all finished. There was much questioning from the others about the Sing-Song and they all said they would not miss it. We twitted Robin that as he was a new-bug he would have to sing, play and probably dance the Hornpipe as well. Simpson said he would sing 'Fairest Isle' by Mr Purcell. Both Robin and I smiled as we had quietened the rowdy gathering the night before with that tune. We said we would be most happy to accompany him. He looked rather surprised when Robin said he would be playing his violin. I think he wondered if he might be in tune!

At luncheon it was announced that there would be a football game and it would be against Prior's House. George was so pleased and was rallying a good twenty to play. Robin shook his head though Maitland and Branscombe said they would join in. He said he would prefer to go for a ride but would play another day. I said I would like to exercise Blaze. I saw young Freddy looking our way so went to the table where Mr Pretyman was sitting and bowed my head in greeting. He smiled as he looked up and I craved his pardon for interrupting his meal but wondered if Frederick Neville would be allowed to ride with us on our proposed outing. He agreed and beckoned young Freddy over. He looked so pleased when he was told to be ready by two o'clock and scurried back to his place to give his friends such good news. I beckoned Japhet, who was clearing dishes, and asked him to take a message to the stable to warn Shem and Natty that our mounts would be needed. I also gave him the paper I had promised Natty for him to write home to his mother. A penny piece slipped into his hand would suffice for those tasks and any other errands I might need for the week.

In our room as George and I were getting ourselves readied for our activities Theo said he would stroll across to see George get muddied and wished me well looking after the infant. I think he meant Freddy not Robin! George was busy putting on his football togs and said he was sorry if my gift got too dirty but he was sure Japhet's mother would wash it as good as new. Theo said he was to make sure he washed himself the same as soon as the game was over. I said as I was riding I would stink of horse and get filthy from the muck on the roadway so I had better have a bath as well after. In fact, I thought to myself, I would try to return before the football game ended to have a share of the hot water first. I took a clean shirt and towel and my school britches to the washroom after I had collected Robin who did the same.

Young Potts was already stoking the fire under the copper. He smiled when we said we would try to be first. "Aar sirs, I'll mek sure thass auld water be good and steaming fur ye!" That would be worth a penny for him, too!

Laughing together we then made our way to the stables. Young Freddy was already there and talking animatedly with Natty who had saddled two of the horses with Shem dealing with Prince. Freddy was a nimble lad and quite easily used the mounting block and was most eager to start. Shem said the road was almost clear but advised against trying any of the meadows as the ground was quite waterlogged. Two others asked to join us. They were in Mr Carstairs' House and said they usually rode out by themselves. I found they were Nevison and Jocelyn and were friends as their families were neighbours somewhere in Cambridgeshire. From their stance and their riding I surmised they were country lads. They confirmed this by saying they joined their fathers and brothers in hunts across their land most regularly. They were most amused when I said young Freddy Neville had been bloodied on his first hunt just last year and both said they had received the same treatment when they were eight years old! We found they were both now fifteen.

We rode to the crossroads and they said there was another lane leading back to the School past a farm which we could take if we turned onto the left hand road. Nevison said it was used by the farmer for his carts but we had to take care as there were a number of side- turnings. We negotiated all but were glad to get past the farm as two large mastiffs were chained to the gate and barked loudly as we approached. Nevison said we were not to worry and called out to them and they quietened.

"We have two like that to guard our farm entrance and they are more bark than bite," Nevison said, "But I do not suggest you go up to this pair. Franklin the farmer says he has them trained but they took the seat out of the britches of some pedlar who was rather unwary."

I said my father did not have dogs because of the danger they could be to horses.

Jocelyn said he agreed but they were even worse when they were around sheep. Their shepherds were instructed to shoot any dog which strayed onto their land since two dogs had made havoc with several ewes losing the lambs they were carrying.

We were very comradely on the ride and each said we should make this a regular occasion. Both Jocelyn and Nevison were solicitous of Freddy who they realised was not a seasoned rider. He was clapped on the back when we returned to the stable and blushed most demurely when they praised him.

Freddy was concerned that the general aroma of horse would be on him. He thought his room-mates would not take kindly to that. As there was still shouting coming from the football field I knew there would be hot water ready and we could bath in peace. I looked at Robin who must have been making the same judgement.

"If you are quick you can bath with us," Robin said, taking the initiative.

Freddy was delighted. He was then rather concerned as he didn't have any clean clothes. Robin said that as soon as he was dried he could dress quickly and go back to his room and change there.

There were several good-sized hip baths in the washroom so we would have one each. As soon as we arrived in there young Potts began ladling water into three of them. We all stripped quickly and I made sure I was well-lathered with my soap. When rinsed off I got out and dried myself. Freddy had no soap so I offered to lather his back. Poor boy! Having hands massaging him and seeing one, then another naked boy as Robin emerged, he could not help what happened. Robin winked at him as Freddy stood with his hands protectively in front of himself. "Here catch this," Robin said and threw the towel at him. Of course Freddy couldn't let it drop into the water so like Radcliffe he was exposed to our view. Like Radcliffe he was not disconcerted as we had seen him in that state on the journey. I helped him to step from the bath and dried his back for him.

"I don't suppose you've had that done for you since you were younger with your Nanny bathing you?" I said.

He looked up at me and smiled. "And this didn't happen then!" the imp replied.

"Thass a roight thing happens to all in here," remarked young Potts who had been watching all our antics with a wide smile on his face.

I noted there was cheering now from the field so the game had ended. "And we had better go," I said hastily pulling on my clothes and stepping into my riding boots. "You too, young man, or Master Lascelles will probably redden that backside of yours for stealing his hot water."

Freddy was disconcerted then and scrambled to get his britches on without his underclout just as several very muddy fellows came tumbling into the room led by George. "What's this creature doing here!" George shouted but was laughing as he slapped a still naked backside with a distinctly muddy hand. Poor Freddy!

However young Potts was there with a washcloth. "You do wipe thass muck orff with this, young sir."

The moment passed as George was more intent in getting clean. His muddy togs were off in a trice and he splashed into the soapy water I had left. "More hot water!" came his stentorian cry and young Potts was there with his ladle. We beat a hasty retreat as the water from the copper was being ladled over naked bodies and the floor was soon awash. Two of the other baths had been commandeered by two other even more muddied oafs, probably Branscombe, Maitland, or even Parkyn, as each was quite unrecognisable. We rushed Freddy to the door of his part of the House and bade him farewell.

He politely thanked us and said he and some others would be at the Sing-Song. He had a sweet smile as he said he and others of his friends might have to sing.

I followed Robin into his room as we knew his room-mates were still bathing. After closing the door we hugged and kissed but could do no more. "We must find time and place as I thought of our being together when in my lonely bed last night," Robin whispered as he nuzzled my ear. As we stood apart he smiled. "And you kept a secret from me. I have seen the ring and Branscombe said he had shown you. Maitland has decided he wants one and it is something to consider, isn't it?"

I said nothing. But...

To be continued:

P.S. Don't forget, running the Nifty site costs money so if you enjoy reading the stories please consider a contribution to cost. See main page for details. Thanks. Jo