Tom Brownings Schooldays

Tom Browning's Schooldays

By

Joel

Chapter SixtyEight

I think we just stood and stared at each other as the door closed behind the twins. "What does that mean?" asked a rather bewildered Robin. "How does he dispose of them?"

I merely shrugged my shoulders in good imitation of the gesture which the twins often made. "It is something to enquire about on the morrow," I said. I imagined that unwanted servants could be sent on their way to beg on the streets but then realising that the Comte could not be as cruel as that. "There must be a simple, or perhaps, not-so-simple explanation given what we have learnt so far of this household." I grinned at him. "I might venture to ask my father if we might have an organ at Careby Hall."

Robin shook his head. "Grandfather would merely say you can tramp down to the village and find some willing serf to pump the church organ for a ha'penny!" He grinned back. "I would be a willing serf, my dear!" he said in exact imitation of the speech of the Comte and waved his hand likewise.

This made me laugh. Robin was excellent at mimicking others but it was a skill he would have to be careful in employing. "You must not do that when the twins are present," I almost chided him, "They are most fond of their uncle and he is a generous man." I fingered the silk of my shirt which had been cut and stitched with such care. There was an embroidered edge to the sleeves and around the buttonholes in the same shade of blue as the shirt. "Perhaps we might find caps like the one Uncle Philippe was wearing this evening. My father has smoking hats but nothing as colourful as that. I would buy him one if I knew the size of his head."

"I think we should all have them," Robin declared, "I would feel most grand sitting at dinner with my shirt on as well."

I grimaced. "We have but one silk shirt each. They seem rather delicate for much wear. How are they laundered? I know my mother has Mrs Clements to take care of her gowns but I have never enquired if any are silk."

Robin yawned. "I must get to bed and leave all this 'till the morning."

That set me yawning, too,. We stripped off our finery and folded our shirts neatly ready for our bags to be packed in the morning. We would be wearing our new pantalons and these had been laid out ready for us. After we had availed ourselves of the commode Robin said he would snuff the candles so I clambered into bed first and found this was as soft and enveloping as the one at the Duvallier's. Within moments Robin had joined me and after a sweet kiss we both slept.

My dreams were abundant. Father always said cheese made you dream. If so, those we had sampled at the evening dinner must have worked their magic. They were most happy dreams. I relived our journey so far with all the sights and sounds especially of the excursions around Paris and meeting my new relations. My Robin and the twins were there, smiling and friendly, even loving. The Duvalliers, and now Uncle Philippe, had made our visit most enjoyable. I heard the sweet sound of the organ mingled with the cries and twittering of the birds in that aviary. I could but wish for the rest of our time in France to be so enjoyable but underneath I sensed some turmoil and cause for worry. This did not manifest itself in my dreams as I must then have fallen into a deeper sleep.

Again we were awakened by a rap on the door. Fabrice brought in a steaming pitcher and announced in clear English that it was now seven o'clock. We had slept well and long. There was no time for anything except a kiss and it seemed that the excitement of the journey to come prevented our unruly pizzles from demanding their usual attention. After washing we dressed in our new attire. We could not decide whether to wear our white shirts outside or tucked into our pantaloons. In the end we said we were smarter having them tucked in as we then could show off the fine brass buckles on our belts. Robin's had an engraving of a stag and mine that of an eagle.

On descending to the breakfast room we found all the others assembled. Both Lancelot and Jabez were in their linen suits and the twins were dressed as we were but with red bandannas knotted round their necks. After greeting them ... l'etiquette they handed us two of the same and said they were useful for wiping our faces free of sweat. Lancelot said they were most appropriate as the French often had a dog or two running behind their coaches and... He did not finish as two younger lads than the usual servants brought out flagons and set them on the table, bowed and went off giggling. We didn't giggle but gave dear Lancelot a well-deserved sneer. The breakfast was as we had experienced before. New, fresh bread with an abundance of cheeses and thin cut cured meats with a great bowl of various fruits including sweet-smelling pˆches, or peaches, which I had sampled before but never of this quality. The flagons were of a sweet cider and Lancelot said we would have two or three of these on the coach but only for relieving a dry throat.

As we were eating Lancelot informed us we would start at nine o'clock and make our way across Paris towards the road which would take us to Villeneuve St Georges and Melun and then to Fontainebleau where we would stay the night. It would not be a difficult journey and we should arrive well in time to inspect the royal Chƒteau de Fontainebleau. Martin said he thought the palace was mostly intact as it was where the Emperor, Napoleon, had signed his abdication some thirty years ago. Lancelot, as ever, was most informative and narrated how the Revolutionaries had sacked the palace, which had been the royal hunting lodge with a great forest surrounding it. Various monarchs had added to it sumptuously as the years went by. When the Revolution began the furniture had been sold or had disappeared but Napoleon had set repairs in place and furniture had been returned to make it a residence fit for an Emperor. After his abdication, and losing the battle of Waterloo, Napoleon had been sent to Elba in exile from there.

Alain wondered if we might be allowed to enter the gates but even if we could not there was a forest to explore with many lodges so Lancelot said. I did not say that we should not tarry too long there as we had tasks to complete and saw Robin's unsmiling face so knew he was of like opinion. It was at that moment the Comte came to the door of the breakfast room. He was dressed as if ready for riding with white buckskin breeches and high-topped boots but had only a shirt with a white cravat at his neck and no jacket.

"My dears, I see everyone is prepared," he said and placed a bundle of papers and books untidily on the table while we stood and bowed and moved vessels and plates away from his clutter. He motioned that we should sit and finish our repast. He, too, took a chair and two of the servants brought him a prepared platter of various cheeses and meats and a salad of green leaves and cut tomatoes. "Pray allow me to eat with you," he said and without more ado forkfuls were quickly consumed. Fabrice poured him a tankard of the sweet cider and was rewarded with a pat on his backside. What could we do but follow his example and continue eating and drinking. That is, without the pats as our tankards were refilled!

As soon as his last forkful had been consumed he began separating the pile into sheets and books. Sitting by him I could see the sheets were of various songs and short pieces of music but had no idea what the books might contain. This was revealed when he opened one and I saw the name Couperin and as he turned some of the pages I surmised that the music I saw were compositions by that composer. I did not know the name and did not ask for he took up another thin book and this time I saw the name Dandrieu. He put these two books aside and looked at the sheets of paper. Some were printed but others were written by copyists.

"Now, Tom my boy," he said addressing me. Luckily I had finished eating so was able to pay attention without my mouth full. "Let me show you and Robin some of our French music which I am sure you will not know." He beckoned Robin over and Alain vacated his chair so Robin was next to him. He opened the two books and said the composers were both born in the late years of the seventeenth century. They wrote much music for the Church but also for enjoyment of players in their houses. There was music here both for the organ and for other instruments, either singly or in groups. He opened a third book and said the music printed here was by a German named Telemann. He said he was a most prolific composer but he had chosen a collection of his instrumental duets which he recommended for our attention. The sheaf of separate pages he said were pieces which 'his boys' practised to improve their skills. Fabrice got a second pat as he came forward and refilled the Comte's tankard. "Fabrice is most proficient on the cello are you not, my boy?"

Fabrice smiled and bowed his head. "Merci, Monsieur," he said quietly, bowed again and walked away.

"I have a leather case these can be placed in," the Comte continued. "I hope you will find as much enjoyment in them as I have."

What else could we do but thank him. All stood as he did. He said he would not take his carriage ride until he had seen us depart. He asked Martin if Claude had his pistol with him. I noted he called our coachman by his name. Martin confirmed that both Claude and the postillion, Pierre, were armed.

The Comte must have seen the look of concern which appeared on four of his guests' faces. He held up a hand. "I am sure there will be little danger but you have a long journey through forests and one never knows what might lurk behind the next bush."

"Uncle, father says that the foresters have been ordered to clear trees which grow too close to the roads while on the roads through the countryside the trees are spaced evenly to give some shade," Alain said.

Martin was still somewhat concerned. "Father did say we must watch out for any fast-moving small coaches which can be upon you in a moment."

The Comte dismissed this with another wave. "My boys, do not worry. If anyone with evil intent sees you are alert and showing a weapon then they would have second thoughts." He held up a finger. "I suggest you ride in turn at the back with your lad. I suggest you have three on the box as well."

We would have Claude with Rowley Roberts there and if it was hot and stifling inside there would be willing volunteers for a seat on the box.

Lancelot thanked the Comte for his hospitality and that he would see that his cousin and nephew would be well-practised by the time of our return. The Comte laughed and said from what he had heard the evening before we had the makings of fine musicians and was looking forward to our return. We also thanked him and he shook each of us by the hand and bussed his nephews on their cheeks.

We repaired to our rooms to make a last use of the commodes and to see that our bags and chests were taken down to be loaded on the coach. We nudged each other as we emerged from our room to see Fabrice and Valentine carrying the wicker basket between them from Lancelot's room. "Did Lancelot sleep with that beside him in bed?" the impudent Robin asked. I giggled.

We followed the lads down and out as they made their way to the mews by the side of the house. The coach was ready, polished and shiny with the four horses looking trim and well-rested. I had noted that the horses here were shorter-legged and much more rugged than those we used to draw our coaches in England. With six aboard and much luggage we would have six to draw at home but here only four were harnessed.

Jabez was standing talking to the Comte who seemed to be treating him as an equal. We were beckoned over and the Comte said our music and instruments were safely stowed inside and we were shaken by the hand again. He also added we would not starve before we reached Fontainebleau as his chef had packed a hamper for us. All were now assembled with Lancelot in deep conversation with Claude who I heard say, in French, that he was familiar with the road out of Paris and the road to Fontainebleau but it would be busy with travellers. I managed a quick word with Rowley who was smiling and saying how much he was enjoying his travels so far. He praised Claude and declared he was an excellent coachman. He laughed and said the lad, Pierre, had taught him to say 'please' and 'thank you' in French and how to ask for a flagon of wine. I screwed my nose up at him and said I hoped he would not be drunk driving the coach and overturn us. The insolent wretch prodded me in the back and said he knew what un pourboire was and he would inform my father if his son did not treat his servants properly in that regard.

I did compliment him on his attire as he was comfortably dressed in a good white shirt with light britches, boots and a wide-brimmed straw hat. He said Mr Johnson had equipped him in company with Claude and young Pierre so there was no difference between them. Claude pointed to the box and the pair mounted as the six passengers arranged themselves inside. Lancelot said we should take turns outside once we had navigated the streets of Paris.

The Comte waved us farewell with his four acolytes by his side. That was another mystery. There seemed to be no older butler in charge of the household. Still I had my own mysteries to solve once I had Jabez on his own!

The streets in Paris were just as busy as those in London so our progress was slow but afforded the opportunity to see the sights as we struck out on the rue St Germain towards the river and the bridge we had to cross to find the road to Fontainebleau. One sight we did see after the crossing was the Place de la Bastille where the prison had once stood from which the prisoners were set free when the Revolution began.

Both Lancelot and Martin had maps and we were told we would pass through another gateway to Paris called the Porte d'OrŠe which would lead us immediately onto the Route Nationale num‚ro Six to take us through the Bois de Vincennes. By now the sun was beating down on the coach and as we reached the outskirts of the forest I joined the pair on the box while Robin took the second position at the back.

I didn't use much French in conversation with Claude as he wanted to practise his command of English. I found him to be quite correct in his speech and I found myself both telling him about my home at Careby and asking him of his life in Coquelles. He was the second son of an owner of an orchard. Both he and his brother had had to do some service militaire as they did not have the money to buy themselves exemption. At least, that was how I translated it, for Claude had to say all this in French. He said he did not want to be a regular soldier as his cousin was. Claude said this cousin had even been to Africa but he had not returned to Coquelles for some four years which upset his mother. I said my two brothers were soldiers and Rowley rather startled him when he said my uncle was a General and a knight. He was reluctant to talk after that so I had to tell Rowley later he must be careful as Claude was obviously wary of anyone who might be de l'aristocratie. Rowley was insolent again and smiled and said he might join this revolution he had been hearing about and I would have to watch out for my neck. As we were both having a piss behind some trees he nearly wet his britches for I more than patted his arse and he let go of his pizzle. He said he would see it wasn't only my head to be cut off but then they would have to set the hounds to find it! We both giggled at that as I shook my last drops off. "Thass not a dog with a rabbit," he said. "And what's that but a caterpillar on old Thatcher's cabbages!" I riposted pointing at his most lengthy possession. We returned to the coach in good humour.

We had stopped at near midday to rest the horses and give them some feed but also to sample the good things in the hamper as feed for ourselves. There was enough for all and Martin had to borrow Pierre's knife which he kept in a sheath by his side to slice one of the fat sausages. I had opportunity to better Rowley again as I pointedly looked at his front then at the sausage and shook my head. He sneered at me! Insolence once more!

The journey continued and Lancelot and Jabez decided they would be the extra coachman and postillion until the next stopping-place. This gave me the opportunity to question the twins about their Uncle Philippe disposition of his servants. Martin laughed and said it was very simple. Their uncle had interests in two of the new restaurants being opened in fashionable parts of Paris. His servants were well-trained and at least six were now employed most successfully in them. As the restaurants also had small orchestras to entertain their clientele so at least three were employed as musicians. Alain said they had nor visited either of the establishments but their father had and said they were becoming very popular with those in society who wished to be seen! I was rather puzzled at that. Martin then explained that Paris was copying such places as Vienna where there was what was termed 'caf‚-society' in which people, ladies in particular, paraded their wealth and standing in the newest fashions in clothing and jewellery. He asked if this was also so in London? I said I did not know but I would ask my Aunt Fanny when I returned to Charles Street. I did say that I had gathered from overheard conversations that people in London 'dined-out' most frequently at other people's houses.

Time passed quickly with this chat and it was within two hours when we approached the chƒteau and its surrounding small town. As we drove towards the great gates there were three men all dressed in black finery even with plumed hats. One demanded to know if we had seen the physician who had been sent for. Of course, someone said we had a physician with us. I think they were astonished that he was the second postillion! However, the three men showed great excitement at this and the gates were flung open and one climbed onto the back of the coach as well and harangued Lancelot with much gesturing. I gathered that un Ministre d'tat was in residence and was in great pain with la colique and needed attention. Lancelot explained he was English but held une Licence from Paris. He would be most willing to examine the patient. The gentleman looked so pleased I thought he was about to buss Lancelot on his cheeks. He jumped off the back and commanded Claude to drive the coach straight to the entrance to the chƒteau. Lancelot had jumped off, too, and got into the coach waving his hands in good imitation while we sat and laughed. He had his box of medicaments under his seat so as soon as we stopped he was ready to follow the man. Naturally, I followed the pair and left the others telling Jabez what the man had said. By then the other two men arrived and they were puffing and panting as they had run behind the coach! Perhaps they might benefit from our bandannas?

I heard Martin asking if they might be allowed to enter as well but Lancelot, the man and I were already within a door leading through into a decorated corridor such as I had never seen before. There was no time to stand and stare as the gentleman hurried in front of us and we mounted a wide curving staircase where another corridor led us to the door of a bedroom. We could hear moaning from within. There was no introduction other than a torrent of rapid French from the man with the hat though I did catch a phrase I translated as 'an English physician'. What was most noticeable was the bowing and scraping, as it were, from someone I was judging now as a rather obnoxious little man.

I looked at the bed which was in disarray. The rather rotund occupant was in a white nightshirt and there was evidence of him, as Lancelot had said before about many patients with colic, having been 'sick at both ends'! The smell was atrocious and a servant in splendid livery was waving burning lavender while a second was trying to remove a stained sheet.

Lancelot whispered to me that he did not think the gentleman needed a purgative but he would suggest his balm. I took his apothecary's box from him and saw a table with little upon it. I placed the box down and using the key which Lancelot had passed to me opened it and located the required bottle. I waited while Lancelot addressed the groaning man who then held both hands to his belly and then pointed both at his mouth and backside. I tried to concentrate but all I could fathom was there had been un grand diner the evening before and all the other guests had gone hunting or shooting or departed for their homes and he was left to suffer. Lancelot decided it was best to administer his soothing balm first and question the man later. I saw there was an array of fine crystal glasses on another table and after making sure they were clean I poured some four fluid ounces, by my judgement, into one of them. Lancelot took the glass from me and instructed the gentleman to drink the medicine lentement, slowly. He pulled himself up the bed while the two servants rushed to him and put pillows behind his back. He stuck his nose into the glass first and sniffed. He seemed satisfied he was not about to be poisoned and did as he had been told. He sipped slowly and sighed and drained the glass. Lancelot took it from him and gave it back to me and whispered 'two'. I knew he meant me to pour two more fluid ounces which he then gave to the man to drink.

I could see that both the servants and the man, now holding his hat, were looking anxiously towards the bed. As he finished his second draught I stepped forward and took the glass from him. I think he was rather surprised to see me and rewarded me with a great eructation and a look of relief on his face. He lay back on the pillows and closed his eyes. He sighed again, belched a little more quietly and then smiled. Lancelot quietly asked him what he had eaten the night before. From what he said I knew the culprit was the dish of shellfish he had consumed and no one else had. I knew in England we said that oysters and suchlike should only be eaten if there was an 'r' in the month but someone had sent a barrel of sea-creatures of which he was very fond and it was July!

Lancelot's Balm had worked its magic yet again. I heard my cousin instruct, yes, instruct a Minister of State, that he should be careful with his diet. He should take nothing but dry bread and perhaps some soup until the next day with plenty of warm tisane which, no doubt his chef had in abundance. He should then take another draught of the medicine before retiring to bed this night.

The man wanted to know if he should be bled or blistered but Lancelot said it was not necessary. If his own physician advised it then he should not take that advice. I found this from Lancelot later. The man looked relieved from what Lancelot had been saying and said he now had no pain. Lancelot asked if he might examine the man to see if there was any other trouble. The other three were dismissed from the room and I watched as Lancelot palpated the man's stomach and belly, through his nightshirt though I knew he preferred to have his patients unclothed while undergoing this procedure. I noted as the covers were removed from him and his legs were exposed that he had a loose bandage on his leg which had slipped and revealed an ulcer. Lancelot noted this, too, and asked how long it had been there. He shrugged his shoulders and said deux ans peut-ˆtre, two years perhaps. It did not pain him he asserted and his own physician had advised l'onguent du mercure but he had not persevered with it. Even I knew what that was used for!

Lancelot said he should rest and that the soiled bed should be stripped and the sheets changed. I think the man was pleased with Lancelot's manner and his efficiency, nor had Lancelot been obsequious like the man with the hat. Being now much recovered he enquired more about Lancelot and then nodded towards me. Lancelot said I was his cousin and wished to be a physician, too. He then said we were in France with friends to locate my relatives. He made no reference to the ducal head. The man asked me to call the others back in, of course assuming I was as fluent in French as Lancelot. I got his meaning and went to the door and beckoned them in. The two servants helped the Minister from his bed to a chair and a screen was placed while he washed and donned a clean nightshirt. Lancelot meanwhile repeated to the other man his instructions about food, drink and the medicinal draught for the night. I noted that Lancelot poured in a few drops of the poppy juice before handing the almost empty bottle to the man. This extra would help the Minister to sleep. Lancelot asked me if I had any shit on my hands and said we should also have bowls of hot water to remove any unwanted debris. We washed and waited until the Minister had finished his toilette.

Once settled again in a clean bed the Minister said we should be paid and entertained. Lancelot said it was his duty and also his privilege to serve as a physician in the country from which he had learned so much for his profession. The Minister smiled and said it was his privilege to meet such an able physician. One of his servants was instructed to bring a box to the bed. It must have been a heavy strong-box from his effort but it was less than a foot square on its top. A number of coins were counted out and placed in a leather purse which was handed to Lancelot. The Minister than smiled and put coins into another bag and this was handed to me. "Pour le jeune m‚decin" he said. Oh my, my first fee and I had no licence!

There was more conversation with Lancelot. The Minister wanted to know where we had stayed in Paris. He laughed when Lancelot told him it had been with le Comte Roanne. He said he knew him well and we should visit him when back in Paris. It transpired that he wasn't married, either, but his sisters kept house for him and they lived the other side of the river Seine behind le Jardin des Tuileries, near the rue de Tivoli, the Comte would know where. But now, we had permission to look at rooms which were open and to have our dinner served here and not at the inn nearby. One of the servants was despatched to make sure the inn had sufficient accommodation for us and to expect us later. The man with the hat led us down to find the others who were happily quaffing tankards of cider and eating cakes and pastries. We found he was the senior servant, the 'major-domo', or chief butler I assumed.

When he left us Lancelot and I were cross-questioned on what had happened but we were most circumspect in our description of the Minister and his treatment. Neither of us said we had received payment for I still did not know what was in the purse given to me. It was safely in my pocket and the contents would be counted later. After this repast our company was taken along the long corridors by other servants and shown some of the rooms, all very sumptuously decorated. Almost all had shutters closed over the windows so it was difficult to discern much in the gloom of them. It seemed that the chƒteau was almost deserted other than the horde of servants who seemed to be doing very little but chatting to each other though they stood respectfully aside as we approached. I was sure the chatter recommenced threefold after we passed. I must say I would have tired even more if we had visited all the two thousand or more rooms which one of servants said were in the chƒteau. The opulence almost made one dizzy and I could see that the others were less than impressed by all the extravagance.

It was as we were being escorted back towards the room in which we had eaten that we heard hallooing and the sound of horns. The hunters and marksmen were returning but did not enter the part of the chƒteau we were in. We were told we would dine at eight and that we should make ourselves comfortable in the salon next to where we had been before. This room was bigger than the salon at the Comte's house and was even more decorated with paintings of swirling clouds and figures on the ceiling as well as many portraits on the walls. There were numerous armchairs and sofas so, after peering at several haughty-looking bearded and bewigged gentlemen we assumed had been courtiers or ambassadors, we took seats. With the coach journey and now the excitement over the suffering Minister I still had had no chance to talk to Jabez. I could see he was on good terms with the twins who were conversing with him most civilly and as an equal. Again I would have to wait. I looked at Robin in a chair opposite me. He had leaned back and had closed his eyes. I saw that Lancelot was still standing and had taken a book from an open cabinet so I got up and walked over to him.

"This is a fine edition of MoliŠre," he said holding up a volume bound in dark red leather. "It is 'Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme' which I saw performed in Paris when I was a student. I recommend you to read it for it is good French and has wit and humour." He struck a pose and read most elegantly in a strong questioning voice: "Quoi? Quand je dis 'Nicole, apportez-moi mes pantoufles, et me donnez mon bonnet de nuit' c'est de la prose?" Here he bowed low and assumed a different quite humble voice. "Oui, Monsieur." He stood upright again and drew a handkerchief from his sleeve which he flourished and said with great passion "Par ma foi! Il y a plus de quarante ans que je dis la prose sans que j'en susse rein!"

He had caught the twins' attention and they laughed and clapped their hands. "Monsieur, continuez, je vous prie!" Martin called out.

Both I and Robin had also understood that whoever was speaking had not realised that for all his life he had been speaking prose. Jabez smiled at Lancelot's antics but I wondered if he had understood the French. The performance was most refined and Martin wanted Lancelot to continue. However, he demurred, but said it would be a good entertainment to present the play at Ashbourne.

Alain shook his head and said that few of our fellow pupils knew any French and that Monsieur Lagrande had only a bare dozen in his regular classes. Robin and I had attended two of these but even we surpassed the majority in them and Monsieur Lagrande had said he would endeavour to find further time for us next year.

Martin then said until this last year there was always a Winter play and a Summer play performed at the school but the master who had directed them had sadly died and none of the other masters wished to continue in his place. The plays were always by William Shakespeare and I was reminded of my father's tales of his days at the Grammar School in Stamford and his and Uncle Billy's roles in those dramas performed there. Alain said he had heard Mr Martin say a new master or two would be joining the school in September for the other's pupils had swelled the numbers in his and other masters' rooms. It would be hoped that one of them might take over the task.

Lancelot was getting agitated. He left the room hurriedly and returned a minute or so later smiling. "If you require une maison pour les n‚cessiti‚s de la nature it is within the door guarded by a servant that way." He pointed to the door we had entered by and indicated we should then turn right. He was not the only one who required a 'house of necessity' as I had heard such a privy described and we departed one by one to gain relief. The servant was ready and opened the door for me with the customary bow. Even though the walls and floor were tiled and the ceiling ornamented with a cherub blowing a trumpet, there was still the general stench of a well-used hole in the ground. I did not tarry though I wished to see what coins I had been rewarded with. I returned the bow as I went out and entered our salon to general laughter as Martin was asking if the artist might have had a sense of humour with such a picture as that with the cherub having half-closed eyes and puffed-out cheeks. I did not say I had answered his trumpet call with one of my own!

I sat with Lancelot but Robin joined the others. Alain had discovered a card table further into the room and was brandishing a pack of cards and wished for four to play. This was most convenient as I had more to ask Lancelot and said I had gathered the Minister wished to know if he should be bled or blistered, 'fait la saign‚e ou appliquez un v‚sicatoire'. Lancelot said he advised neither as he had found that loss of blood most often caused yet more weakness and distress. He had said as much when discussing treatments with Madame Fontane. Hot cups in his opinion only transferred pain from one place to another and he had seen little relief in that procedure either. I ventured to ask about the ulcer. Lancelot looked from me to the four card-players. They were far enough away not to hear our conversation. "That disease he has is marked by such signs." He leaned forward. "I know you are aware of that dread infection for you have read my book with its description." He smiled at my reaction. "You must learn to replace books exactly as you find them." I smiled lopsidedly back. "Yes, it is the Great Pox," he confirmed. "I did see more evidence when he turned in the bed. He has dry pustules on his ankles and feet and there was another bandage I am sure on his other leg." He looked pensive. "There is a puzzle here. I learned that such ulcers appeared then mended and it was later that those other signs were evident."

I could not answer as my knowledge was scant. I had read that such ulcers were painless which the Minister had confirmed was so. "You cannot question him more," I said "His own physician will be in attendance by now and you may, perchance, meet him."

Lancelot shook his head. "It may be difficult. Some physicians do not take kindly to what they see as interference and with such an important personage..."

"...Your interference brought him relief and that should satisfy any other physician," I said hotly.

"Yes, it was my duty," Lancelot said. He did smile then. "Have you counted your reward?"

"No," I said and laughed. "That was my first fee."

Lancelot looked at the four round the table and saw they were concentrating on their game. He drew out the purse he had been given. He unloosened the strings and five gold coins slid into his hand. He looked startled. "He must have made a mistake!" he exclaimed, "This is one hundred francs! And in gold!"

I felt in my pocket for the small bag he had given me. This revealed one gold coin and two five franc pieces. "I have thirty francs," I said quietly. I had calculated from his statement that each of the gold coins was worth twenty francs. If in English pounds I would have near twenty-five shillings but the gold coin must be worth more than a sovereign as it seemed bigger. I was rather bemused.

"A most generous man," Lancelot said equally quietly. "We must keep these coins safely." We both replaced our coins in their respective bags and stowed them into our pockets. We sat and rested and I marvelled at our good fortune in seeing this building even though through the suffering of one of its occupants. As we sat so servants came in with glasses of some cordial and one whispered to Lancelot that our dinner would be ready in but ten minutes. It would be earlier than expected as more guests were arriving unexpectedly. It was then there was a clattering and an elderly man accompanied by two servants came into the room and stared about him. Lancelot took one look and shot up out of his chair.

"Professeur Cartier, quelle surprise! Comment allez-vous?" Lancelot went to the man and shook his hand.

The man laughed. "C'est vous exactement, Lancelot Dodd!" He pulled the rather taller Lancelot to him and hugged him.

I tried to translate the rapid French which now flowed back and forth. I realised that by calling the newcomer 'Professeur', Lancelot must have known him from his student days. He must have been one of Lancelot's teachers. From the gabble I caught the word 'chaise' and 'tourner et retourner' which must have meant his carriage had been in some trouble. I looked more closely and could see his fine jacket had a split and his shoulders had been dirtied. There was a moment's pause and the pair were laughing together. They then became more serious and I realised Lancelot was relating his treatment of the Minister and the Professor was listening intently. From his vigorous nodding I knew he was agreeing that Lancelot had been correct in what he had prescribed. Once this narration was ended the Professor asked him who his companions were. I was first as being the nearest. The Professor had little English but smiled when I was introduced as Lancelot's cousin.

"The young doctor, eh?" he said most clearly. His English then deserted him and the pair laughed as he then said in French that was how the Minister had described me.

The others were then called over and each was introduced and each bowed and were shaken by the hand. I must say I liked the Professor. He had such a smile and I heard him say his sons were now seventeen and fifteen, like us and the twins, and would be most pleased that 'Oncle Lotto' was in France. I laughed inwardly as he must have been known by the name his brother Erasmus called him at home.

It was then that two other liveried servants came to the door. They bowed deeply when they saw the Professor and one said that dinner was ready to be served. Lancelot explained quickly to him that we would be dining earlier than the others in the chƒteau and, of course, in a separate room. The Professor clapped his hands and said he had had no luncheon and had no desire to dine with the horde so could he dine with us? I think the servants were rather disconcerted but the Professor led the way with Lancelot and we followed sedately grinning and nudging each other. If I had been bemused earlier dear Jabez was in that state now!

I managed to sit beside Jabez but did not ask any questions and merely said I hoped this journey was proving to be exciting for him. He smiled and said every day was a new day for him. He did whisper that there was much to tell.

We did find that the Professor and Lancelot were more than just acquainted. Lancelot had lodged with the Professor's sister when a student in Paris and, as I had surmised, the Professor had been one of his tutors. As the Professor and his family had lived next to the sister his sons were constant visitors to their aunt and Lancelot had been adopted by them as another uncle.

I was looking forward to dining in a royal chƒteau and I was not disappointed. With the Professor present there was no stinting on the courses and we had good wines served, too. This was so after he had demanded that a different white wine should be served as the one being poured was 'pisse de chŠvre' - 'goat's piss'!

Towards the end of our repast we could hear the noise of the others who were assembling for their own dinner. The Professor said he was glad he did not have to dine with them as he would be questioned about all their ailments, real or imagined. We did not tarry when the meal ended as we had to make our way to the inn for our beds. The Professor bid us all 'adieu' and said he must see if Lancelot had poisoned his patient and shook hands once again. His final words were that I must come to Paris to learn how to be 'un mŠdicin exceptionnel'.

The journey to the inn was not so speedy as I would have imagined. Claude, the coachman, was determined for all of us to see as much of the paths and gardens so we took a circuitous route and had a great laugh as we passed a statue of a lady with four pissing dogs around her plinth. I decided that if my father would not let me have an organ at Careby Hall I would demand a statue and its attendants just like that!

The inn was most commodious and well-appointed and there was again much bowing and scraping for the English Milords. I do not know what the servant sent to obtain our accommodation had said but we were entreated to have wine and to sit in the garden which was most admirable. There was discussion between Lancelot and Martin as they consulted their maps on the next part of the journey. Mr Johnson had marked clearly the point where we should look for the signpost for Grez to find the monks. It was decided that only Lancelot and Martin would approach their abode in case they might be intimidated by all of us appearing and thinking they might be robbed or even ousted.

We four boys shared a spacious room and the large bed. Of course, I was questioned about the Minister and his ailment. I said only of the colic and that Lancelot had given him relief with his elixir. They were much amused with the Professor who had enquired if they were to be physicians. He had praised Lancelot who he said had been an excellent student and most knowledgeable from his previous studies in Cambridge. I was proud of my cousin and how he had not been servile in the presence of the Minister who had recognised his competence and rewarded it handsomely. It was a lesson for me to learn and to emulate.

The extra wine had made us sleepy so it was with relief we found the bed to be comfortable and within moments we were slumbering. I woke early as my bladder was full. It was another fine day and after using the commode I sat in my nightshirt and looked out of the window. We were raised enough so there was a clear vista and I could see we were within the surrounding forest which stretched to the horizon. I saw that Martin had left his map on the table by the window so picked it up and was engrossed in it when another bladder-full boy joined me. It was Robin and we exchanged a chaste kiss before he made use of the commode.

We sat side by side and looked at the map together while surreptitiously feeling each others rampant pizzles under our nightshirts. "No more," he whispered, "Or the map will be more than wetted."

We traced our fingers then down the roads marked and saw we would take the Route Nationale Num‚ro Sept out of Fontainebleau and have but six or so miles to traverse before we would reach Grez. After returning to the main road we would soon be at Nemour where the road followed a river to Montargis. We saw that Mr Johnson had placed a cross against the next town, Briare, which would be our hoped-for stopping place for the night.

It was peaceful sitting as we were, side by side, with just the quiet snores from the twins and the sounds of birds in the trees. We put our arms around each other and smiled and rubbed our cheeks together. I realised we were growing, for there was now a roughness where just six months ago our cheeks were smooth. I smiled as I remembered the words 'bearded like the pard' which had puzzled me when I had first read them. Perhaps that play by Mr Shakespeare would be one for Ashbourne. There would be no lack of laughter at the 'whining schoolboy' and I wondered who might sing 'It was a lover and his lass'?

I could hear sounds from below and it was soon when there was a rap on the door and our hot water was brought by two boys who could be nothing else but brothers. I found a five centime piece and gave it to the elder who accepted it most graciously and then showed it to his smaller brother who smiled and bowed. I think they would remember the generous young Englishman!

The others were awake and we were soon all washed and ready for our breakfasts soon after a church bell had chimed six. Though there were many travellers at the inn there were no other English as far as I could ascertain as we sat and listened to the chatter around us. Lancelot said that many would be travelling down later in the year to escape the cold of our winter, for the towns on the Mediterranean were more agreeable during those months. It was also agreed that we should start our journey early and rest during the midday heat as the horses would tire easily otherwise.

Our coach was ready and packed and we were on our way by half past seven. This was wise as there was a warmth in the air which would presage the later heat. We skirted the walls of the chƒteau and maps were ready as we passed through the village of Bourron. Alain was the first to spot the signpost and we drew up at a small hostelry where Lancelot and Martin enquired the way to the abbey. They must have convinced the innkeeper of their good intentions because he sent a lad with them as they set out along a pathway. We went into the inn where the innkeeper's wife, a jolly rotund woman, served us with tankards of that sweet cider we were all getting most fond of. A number of village children gathered and we were amused by their rather strange French and they were equally fascinated with 'les 'Glais', or 'les rosbifs' for Robin and Alain taught them 'nose', 'eye', 'ear', 'mouth', which was better than 'Froggies'! A centime or two delighted them even more. It was nigh on two hours before the trio appeared. The lad was given a coin and an amicable bond between the English and the French after their wars was established even more satisfactorily!

Lancelot was eager to continue our journey so held forth to us all when seated within the coach. The monks had been most welcoming once they realised Lancelot was not an emissary of bad news. They would welcome any assistance in aiding their enterprise and were most helpful in telling Lancelot of sources for some of the herbs and plants needed. He said he would send a message back to the Comte and suggest accommodation might be found for the monks and their apparatus in a more congenial setting and to get the Bishop's permission for this. He observed there were six monks and two lay brothers who seemed to do most of the work in keeping the still running. One monk was very elderly and had the receipt for their liqueur memorised and one of the others had managed to persuade him to divulge it and had copied out most. It was clear the other monks were almost unlettered and repeated their daily Office by rote with one breviary between them. They subsisted on the generosity of villagers as one did have knowledge of herbal remedies as well and acted as a physician for all ills. 'A poor and squalid life' was Lancelot's opinion.

With those hours gone we realised we would not reach our goal of Briare and we knew we must not tire the horses in the heat. We did have the advantage of the road following the course of the river so at midday we found a pool and at least dipped our feet in the water. We made our luncheon from bread and cheese and a flagon of cider and rested until we saw the labourers return to the fields.

Montargis was a mixture of old ramshackle houses with newer white-walled dwellings and seemed to be fairly prosperous. There was a good inn by the town square and after a fine dinner of capon and ham we settled to games of backgammon or whist until Martin suggested that Robin and I should entertain the gathering with some music.

If I had earned a wage for my efforts as a 'young doctor' I and Robin were rewarded equally handsomely with glasses of wine and coins after we had set off a merry dance for the travellers in the inn and townspeople who gathered outside. The innkeeper was most happy as his clientele increased and his last words as we put our instruments away well after eleven o'clock were that we could stay as his guests whenever we passed this way! We twitted Lancelot saying he was using us to line his pockets with all the money he was not paying out on board and lodging. I had helped in getting the sumptuous meal last night and tonight all had benefited by more ale and wine through our playing and Robin and I would have our bed for free!

Even though we had all imbibed freely the night before, we were up, washed and breakfasted by seven o'clock and began the journey again. The day was clear and sunny again and though we had left the side of the river the road was somewhat sheltered by the trees in their stately rows. Again we all took turns on the box or on the back and watched the road carefully for other travellers. We saw many carts laden with produce and even saw one cart which was netted with geese under. We stopped at a reasonable inn for an early luncheon and while the horses rested had our 'sieste'. We reached Briare and had a river by our side again. It was most tempting and all, except Lancelot and Rowley, stripped and jumped into the flowing water. I saw the twins and young Pierre take surreptitious looks at Jabez's mighty peg as he most unconcernedly cavorted in and out of the stream. Both I and Robin took turns in harrying him but he knew our tricks and twice I was ducked and had my privy parts in his hands. I managed to unskin his weapon in one attack so the head was exposed which made the others stare more. Not having shed seed for some two days caused me to be particularly rampant though within minutes of the start of our play all were quite erect. Poor Pierre was rather abashed and tried to place a hand over his own fair-sized pizzle but I tickled his ribs and Robin slapped his arse-cheeks which made him loose his hand to protect the rest of him. He was soon without shame and even elbowed Jabez so he took a tumble and spluttered with a mouthful of water. There were no cattle near nor any houses and the water was quite clear as it flowed rapidly so a mouthful should not do harm!

We were a happy group as we set off again having stood and let the water dry on us. Jabez gave me a wink as we were side by side when we pulled on our underclouts over unruly erect pegs. He nodded towards the twins who were trying not to stare too openly at the monster he was sporting. I knew there would be questions later!

We travelled for a good four hours more and came to a small town called Cosne. Here we decided to stay the night at any inn recommended. There was a neatly-suited gentleman who responded most politely to Lancelot's enquiry and suggested the establishment on the opposite side of the town square. He said it was kept by his cousin and we found it to be a good recommendation. It was nigh on eight in the evening and many of the inhabitants were taking the air and there were two caf‚s also in the square where numerous folk were sitting and drinking. After being shown our rooms and accepting them we sat in a sheltered courtyard overlooking another rushing stream and were served our dinner there. There was ample in each course from what looked like fine trout to capon to a boiled ham to satisfy all appetites. The cheeses were particularly splendid, quite aromatic and smooth on the tongue, and there was a good wine to accompany those. I was enjoying my experiences of French cuisine as the twins termed it. They said their father had travelled almost to every region of France and said each had its own specialities. He wanted not only to take wine from each but also to buy preserved goods and send them to London. He was convinced there would be a trade for such things.

"Saucissons, fromages," said Robin, "And that good bread!"

They laughed and said all the travellers praised the bread but it had to be freshly bought from the 'boulangerie' and they were sure that neither Mrs Williams nor the bakers in Ashbourne village could produce it to that quality.

We were talking together as Lancelot and Jabez were sitting away from us smoking a sweet-smelling cigar each. The twins said they were minded to try them, too, for they kept the flies and biting insects away. I told them of poor Freddy's predicament over being found smoking at school and they promised not to divulge that for they were just as guilty having brought several of their father's cigars and they had sampled them and felt unwell though they had given some to older fellows who relished them. Now they were older perhaps they would not cough and splutter!

We shared a room again and as I expected there was some chatter before Alain blurted out "That fellow Bottom has a most prodigious...". He stopped and reddened for both Robin and I set to giggling and held our hands apart some eight inches. Robin then looked at Alain and showed his thumb and forefinger some two inches apart! I shook my head and gave the twins the benefit of the doubt and held my hands near six inches apart which made them giggle, too.

Robin enlightened them. "We have known Jabez Bottom since we were small boys," he said with a great smile. "He was set to look over us many times when we were young and we have had many pleasing adventures with him." He did not say that Jabez had taught us that greatest pleasure of all boys but that was unspoken knowledge for he then told of some of Jabez's scrapes. Robin averred he had the greatest admiration for him for he was sure he would make his way in the world.

I think the boys were impressed as they had not guessed of his original lowly status but had surmised he was of gentle stock. "Your cousin has admiration for him, too, or he would not spend such time in his company," Martin said. "Our Uncle Philippe is a good judge of character so father says and he was most happy to converse with him." He smiled. "He was like an equal!"

I did not add anything for I did not want them to question more on Jabez's position nor why he was accompanying us. In any case I was without prior knowledge other than he had tasks to perform.

That talk of pizzles had immediate effect on four boys for when we undressed the sight of each other sent the usual signal to our groins. Alain was quite forthright. "We know each other well now and there is no shame between us," he smiled, "I am near seventeen and these urges are too demanding to dampen. Let us stand and dampen a towel instead!"

"I may be only fifteen but I find it true, too!" said naughty Robin and he was first to spread the towel and stand by it. Four boys grinned at each other and matched their strokes until four boyish gifts were given to the towel. I was so rampant I spurted first followed close by Martin, then Robin until Alain surpassed us all with five copious squirts which dampened not only the towel but his brother's legs standing opposite him. This set us all a- laughing and we held each other round the shoulders and vowed it was something we should repeat!

We bundled naked into the good bed and I slept soundly as I had found so often after that most-needed release. The cocks crowing awakened me in the morning and I was ready for the commode. Two trumpet blasts accompanied the next cock crow and woke both Robin and Alain. "That boy may pay the flute but he is not in tune with his arsehole!" Alain commented most rudely. I would have to reprimand Robin as he agreed with that ungrateful remark. They were both punished as Martin woke and outdid my effort. He stifled their protests by throwing the covers over their heads which caused them to complain of the mighty stink!

Their tussle in the bed continued even while lads bringing us hot water rapped on the door and then entered. The pair stared at three naked creatures grasping and grabbing and crowing and hooting enough to wake the dead. I was naked, too, and rose from my throne to more stares from them. I looked them over and saw they were somewhat of an age with us so must know what naked lads, even if English, must possess. Both were dressed in short dark blue smocks and short cloth trousers which did not cover their bare, brown knees. The clatter on entering was through the wooden soles of their shoes worn on their bare feet. The sight of such apparent disorder with good-sized pegs on full view unsettled one of the pair for he hurriedly picked up the empty pitcher from the night before and held it tightly to his own lower midriff. I smiled at him and the lad's cheeks reddened. I walked to the side table where I had laid out some of the centimes we had earned from our playing. I handed them two centimes each which meant the pitcher had to be held away and there was clear evidence of an erect pizzle. I merely nodded at him and though his cheeks reddened more he did not drop his eyes but began to smile.

I did see him again as he and his confrŠre brought platters from the kitchen while we breakfasted. I had a great desire to stroke those dark-hued thighs which showed a young forest of black hairs. He was there again as we mounted the coach for he held onto the leading reins of our foremost horses and stroked their muzzles gently. I though of my lust for our fellow pupil Radcliffe and felt the same pang. I smiled at him and got a smile back. I was brought to my senses as Robin prodded me in the back as he was waiting for me to climb the step. The others were still outside the coach and as we sat he remarked that I had a good eye for a comely youth and hoped he was one, too. Oh, Robin, I could not deceive you!

We were soon on our way and I was nudged and prodded by dear Robin who did all in his power to make me respond as that boy had. I listened to Lancelot who was reciting the next part of our route once again and that was sufficient to make any boy soft! Yes, we all knew we were heading for Nevers and hoped to reach Moulins for our stop this night. We were making good progress and were nigh on reaching a village called Pougu‚s where Lancelot said there was a noted miraculous spring when Claude called out that two carts were in collision and had spilled their contents over the road ahead. He had no sooner said that when we heard rapid hoofbeats and there was crack of a pistol from where Martin and Pierre were seated on the rear of the coach! Was this an ambush?

To be continued:

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