Tom Brownings Schooldays

Tom Browning's Schooldays

By

Joel

Chapter SeventyThree

We knew we had tasks to do that day. My Aunt Fanny had laughed as she said my mother had sent her lists of requirements to be purchased for two boys returning to school. No doubt both would have grown and need a completely new wardrobe. This was true enough as even the clothes we had taken to France seemed now somewhat tight and wanting in the arms and legs even though we had possessed them over but a short period. After breakfast we were sent in a chaise with Paolo as our guide and mentor to the outfitters and the haberdashers where the lists had been deposited. The chaise was soon laden with parcels of shirts, jackets, trousers, boots, shoes, stockings, football and running togs and unmentionables which were taken up to our room by a couple of the young grooms when we returned to Charles Street. We delivered the annotated lists to Aunt Fanny who sent for a dish of tea and pastries for us while she checked all had been bought. She was satisfied all had been purchased and said boys were not quite as expensive creatures as girls! She said dinner that night would be quite formal so if we could still squeeze into our tail suits all would be well. She smiled as she said this and we both smiled back as she added that she was quite captivated with her present which was in pride of place on a table in the window space of the parlour.

We repaired to our room to find a grinning Jabez in our bedroom packing soap, soft paper and various other packages in our chests ready for our departure the next day. I got slapped fingers from a disrespectful servant when I attempted to open one of the wrapped objects.

"All will be revealed at Careby." the insolent creature informed me with a dismissive wave. "Not all are for you, nor for dear Robin. There are others worthy of benevolence and consideration than you. So, fingers off!" The short time in the Comte's company had taught him gestures which reduced us all to merriment. He grinned at us. "I am but obeying your aunt's instructions. She said her own conveyance might be rather laden. Boys do not need such space as ladies she informed me." He made large expressive gestures over the chest he was standing by. "My lady will be travelling only with Maria but will require a smidgen of space in your coach my dear sir." He burst out laughing. "I warrant there will be ructions when her carriage is loaded as I have seen two sweating grooms take chests down already this morning."

Both Robin and I were grinning at all this as well. We had seen how laden my aunt's coach had been on a previous occasion and I had been bundled in a corner on more than one occasion when travelling with my mother. But, only Maria, Aunt Fanny's maid, had been mentioned as accompanying her.

"Is Rosamund not journeying to Careby as well?" I enquired as Jabez took up some of our new parcels and arranged them neatly over the contents already in the chests.

"Your cousin has other interests as you are well aware," he said with an inclination of his head to one side. "She says she must stay with her father but..." No more was said. We knew Geoffrey Lascelles would be nearby. He held up a finger. "I must tell you that your cousin Mr Nicholas Wright will be travelling from New York to be at the ceremony and intends to visit Careby for Christmas with his companion architect, Mr Cornelius Button. They will also be visiting other notable establishments for Mr Button has not been to England before."

"He is American?" Robin asked.

Jabez nodded. "I am informed he is of an old and revered family who left these shores many years ago and wishes to experience the Old Country, according to Sir Digby."

That would be most instructive to meet him. Mr Martin had told us of the Pilgrim Fathers and the hardships they had endured in the first years of their arrival on that new continent. I could see that Robin was intrigued as well.

"Will they have slaves accompanying them?" Robin asked. "Would that not be illegal for we do not have slavery here?"

Jabez shrugged his shoulders. "I have not heard of any such arrangement. You have told me of that boy at Careby who is descended from a slave. Sir Digby says it is his opinion that many who work in mines and manufactories are no better than slaves except they might leave. Then he says he supposes some employment is better than none." He shrugged his shoulders. "We must wait and see. That black boy, John, I see in Lady Cuthbert's employ tells me he came to England as a small boy and is most happy in his position." He repeated the wriggling of a forefinger. "I tell you, Robin, he has your dear uncle beat in what he possesses!" He grinned. "I must not belittle him as that black lad will outdo me when he is fully grown I am sure!"

I grinned back. "How did you compare?"

He laughed as he explained those two meanings. "He was to be on duty here and had slipped and soiled his britches when alighting from her Ladyship's carriage. As we are alike in our body size Mr Purrett said I should lend him a pair of my britches so what could I do but help the lad change. His underclout did little to cover his proud possession and he was not shy as he confessed it was a constant object of admiration for his fellow young servants. He shares a room with three others, one of whom he said was called a mulatto as his father was white but his mother was black. He was but fourteen so John said and had some way to go in growth but also delighted in displaying his fine dark pizzle much to the amusement of the others." He laced his fingers together. "What could I then do but demonstrate the water closet and we stood side by side with britches open and drawers down. I think I bested him by less than an inch and he is near seventeen."

Robin was giggling. "You are fully grown and here is some lad soon to put you in second place."

Jabez leaned forward as if to cuff Robin. "I would rather be second to such a fine sight than hundredth in line like some other young fellow who will be glad of another half inch when he is seventeen."

Robin was not disconcerted. "I am happy with what I have. But let us return to proper discussion." Was Robin being prim and priggish? No! He laughed and asked more about Nicholas Wright.

Jabez said all he knew was what he had overheard. The pair had not only designed a number of fine houses and buildings around New York but were purchasing acres of land whenever there was any for sale with the profits from their endeavours. There was interest also in ground oil but Jabez was unclear what this was so I said we should consult Lancelot.

Our chests were more than filled so Jabez said he would acquire a wicker hamper or two as well as both his and Mehmet's possessions would be carried on our coach.

"I hope you won't lead Mehmet into any evil ways while you are at Careby," I said.

He laughed. "I am beyond boyish pranks but we have had merry times together haven't we? Mehmet says he does not believe half my tales but I give my word I will behave. No more church towers or Mistress Hine's wash house lines in full decoration I promise." Both Robin and I laughed at the memory of the full complement of the Hine household's undergarments being displayed flapping for all to see in the open air when previously they would have been dried discreetly within the confines of the wash house.

Dinner was indeed formal but also most enjoyable. My sister Hatty was there with her husband, the Reverend James, and her sons who had demanded to see their 'Uncles'. Luckily we had purchased some small wooden farm animals in the bookshop in Paris and they were handed over with much delight from the pair. My brothers were in attendance and Mrs Torquil Browning looked most resplendent in a billowing blue gown. Billowing for obvious reasons. The Honourable Geoffrey Lascelles was most affable and he and Rosamund kept smiling at each other. He said 'young George' as he called him was desirous of joining the regiment when he left school next year and needed a good recommendation. Robin was not daunted when this was said to us and replied immediately that he sat well but would profit from a better saddle for his present mount, Barbary. Geoffrey laughed and said that could be remedied if he would take charge of the arrangements with the saddler in Ashbourne village. He would see that a promissory note was delivered in the morning before we left. Other officers, including Captain Bemrose and Marmaduke Hastings were present and kept the old naval captain from next door entertained. The Duchess was ushered in with Mehmet guiding her on his arm and holding her silver ear trumpet ready for her to place round her neck on its ribbon. Lastly, my Uncle Billy and Lady Cornwallis arrived with a young lad our age in tow. He was her nephew, Francis, and had been left on her hands while his parents travelled to Canada where his father was to be a Governor of a province for Her Majesty. He soon joined in conversation with us and we found he was at Harrow School. He was most jealous he said when we told him we had just returned from France. Though also a Honourable himself he was no snob and we were soon exchanging stories of our schools and then telling him some snippets of our journey.

As usual the food could not be faulted and we made Francis both squirm and laugh at our description of the tureen of snails as we sat either side of him. He was a country lad like us, as his father had an estate in Norfolk, and said his strangest meal was to eat squirrel baked in clay which the sons of one of the farming tenants had prepared. I knew that squirrels and other vermin were mentioned as being in the pot of some of our village poor but being baked in clay sounded intriguing. Signor Bartoli's meats were more refined that evening!

Our journey had to be recounted once again and there was great approbation when small glasses of the monks' liqueur were circulated. Francis rather gulped his and had to be patted on the back as it quite took his breath away. Lancelot was toasted for having donated that fine brew and Uncle Digby said it was wasted on old dons at High Table. Captain Bemrose said it certainly wouldn't be wasted in the Mess and it was the finest he had ever tasted. Lancelot would make his fortune with his air-purifier and supplies of that liqueur I was sure!

The merry party broke up near midnight and both I and Robin were bade goodnight with handshakes from the men and a kiss from the ladies. Francis asked if we might meet again sometime as his parents would be away some three years which would take him up to the end of his schooldays and entry to University. He was destined for Cambridge and thought himself to be a fair scholar. Lancelot overheard him say this and recommended he take matriculation for St Mark's as we would be there and so would be the St Mark's Fire! I said we would no doubt visit London where he lived with his Aunt Mary during his school holidays. He did say he was rather in awe of my Uncle Billy who had promised to have a trooper supervise his riding and I said I would ask my mother if he might visit Careby as well.

Robin was very happy as we made our way to our bedroom. Both Torquil and Elizabeth had been most warm towards him. He knew he was welcome within the family and Elizabeth's kiss had been another seal of acceptance. Torquil was quite open with him and said again it saddened him if Robin thought he had been neglected but he knew of the debt which he owed to the kind heart and care of Steven Goodhew who had taken on the role of father to a son not his. Our own love for each other flowed in abundance that night and two content and fortunate boys slept sound.

We would be departing by ten in the morning so we were told we need not rise too early. However, there was much scurrying in the corridors so we thought it wise to vacate the bed though no valet was here to help us. Hot water had been left while we slept and was still warm enough for a quick wash of all our needful parts. There were parts which would not lie still until attended to side by side in the jakes. Neither of us could help it and missed the pan so there were giggles as the first sheets of soft paper were used to mop up errant juices. Further sheets, of course, were employed in the more usual way as we eased ourselves. I had been first as Robin remembered he had placed the parcel containing the 'Fables of Aesop' for his brother on the shelf in the tall chest and needed to put it into his chest which was already stacked high.

I had just finished washing and was drying my front when there was a quiet rap on the door. I knew who it might be and called out 'Enter!'. It was the two youngsters, Antonio and Carlo, carrying even more small packages.

They eyed two older, naked boys and young Carlo pursed his lips. We had been judged, no doubt, against their brothers, cousins, probably Mehmet and Karem and even Jabez. Antonio looked at his brother, then bowed his head. "Sirs, our grandfather has asked if these might be taken for Mr Jabez and Mr Mehmet. He knows their birthdays will be soon." He smiled at me. "There is a parcel also each for you and Master Robin and he sends his greetings."

I said we would be most pleased to take them and to thank him most heartily. As Robin took the parcels from them I retrieved a sixpence each for them which made them smile more. I bent down and almost kissed both on their foreheads but forbore as they might wonder at such an action. I did say "Be good and make sure you pay attention at school and learn." I knew that Aunt Fanny paid for their attendance at the National School and maintained that servants should be able to read and write well.

"Please sirs," Antonio said as he slipped the coin into a pocket, "We have been instructed to help you dress." He sniffed. "Will Mr Jabez and Mr Mehmet return?" He looked quite woebegone over their departure.

I assured him they would and asked why he wanted to know.

"Please sir, we would all be most sad if they did not," was his heartfelt reply.

Both had been trained well. With little ado they laid out underclothes, stockings, clean undervests, shirts and cravats. As Robin and I covered our nakedness, which the pair eyed even more openly, so they laid out on the dressing-table our combs and hair brushes. They insisted they would comb and brush our hair and as I sat in front of the mirror on the table I noted even more growth by my ears and above my lips. I would need a shave before presenting my untidy self to my mother! I said this to Robin who matched me in those patches of hairiness. Antonio was ready with an answer.

"Please sir, Paolo shaves both Mr Jabez and Mr Mehmet. Should I fetch him?"

Robin replied to that by saying Paolo was no doubt busy with serving breakfast but after that and before we left would be most convenient.

We finished dressing and looked ready for travel. Although the weather was hot we had decided not to wear our pantalons until we were on the road as they were not 'London wear'. We thanked the youngsters and Robin added another sixpence each before they scurried off and we descended to have breakfast.

Lancelot was already there and was looking at a list. He explained an extra box of remedies had been delivered that morning. Not only that but he had received confirmation that a demonstration of his device would be made at the Society of Apothecaries and also, he hoped, at the Royal Institution. He smiled and said he would be travelling back to London when these occurred and so be able to be at the wedding of Rosamund and Geoffrey Lascelles at the same time. I felt both pleased for him and downhearted that Robin and I would not be able to attend any of those events. He said he hoped to have a reply soon from either his friend or my sister in Edinburgh. He knew the particular address Marie Forsythe was living at, Rose Street, which was in a most genteel district below the Castle and was popular with doctors, lawyers and high class merchants for their residences. It was near where my sister lived. He said he had lodged with his friend's family while both were students at the University. His friend's father was an apothecary and had his premises off Grassmarket on the other side of the town.

Breakfast over Paolo escorted us back up to our bedroom. He was equipped with razors, towels and soap and soon had us neat and tidy about the jowls. The shilling passed to him was most gratefully received. We were ready now to depart on our journey home to Careby. The coaches were ready and seemed quite laden. We set off first as we had to get to St Albans in good time to make sure there was proper accommodation at the Peahen for my Aunt. The horses were fresh and seemed tireless even when we made our way up Barnet hill. Lancelot, as usual, was full of knowledge and told us of the Battle of Barnet in 1471 when Warwick was slain and Edward the Fourth was victorious. Lancelot amused us when he said the battlefield was most likely where the Barnet Horse Fair was now held!

We reached St Albans earlier than anticipated so I hired three mounts to take Robin and Jabez with me to see the land my father had given Robin, my brothers and me. Lancelot said he would stroll into the town and Mehmet could accompany him. I did not know the exact location of those messuages which were ours but all the land in that direction looked well-tended and the stock feeding were in prime condition. Robin was shaking his head in disbelief that any of this fine land could be his. "You will soon know when the rents are paid," said a canny Jabez. We did not stop other than to take quick refreshment in an inn as it might have seemed impertinent for two young lads to lay claim to several acres each of such good land. Both Robin and Jabez were most impressed with the town itself. There seemed to be some most imposing residences in the main street and there was a colonnaded Town Hall which dominated a market place. We did not venture down Holywell Hill to view the ruined abbey though we could see its tower and spire. I was able to show my knowledge by saying the town was an old Roman settlement. I had remembered what my father had said.

We were just returning our mounts when my Aunt Fanny's coach appeared. All was bustle then, as everything had to be secure for the night, for I counted at least seven chests or boxes lashed to the outside of the coach. I was not allowed to peer inside as my aunt said there was nothing there to interest young men! Young men! Not boys any longer!

We found Lancelot and Mehmet deep in conversation in the inn's parlour. It was very like our journey across France. Here was a servant being treated as an equal. Again, I knew Mehmet was more than a lackey. He had skills and a presence which was not of one with low status. I had not studied his clothes but saw now that they were of high quality. His father did not stint on supplying his son with good tailoring. Jabez had also followed us and was welcomed by Lancelot who indicated he should be seated beside him. I found that Lancelot had been questioning Mehmet on the various muscles, ligaments and tendons which he manipulated in his massages. He explained that he had to study each person's structure and make instant decisions most often how he might relieve pressures, taut muscles, sprains, strains and even twisted limbs. I think we were all impressed with his knowledge and the clear way in which he revealed what he knew. Lancelot was especially nodding as Mehmet described how he had restored movement to an old gentleman's gnarled fingers holding Lancelot's hand and indicating that the middle fingers were joined together by underlying ligaments.

"These I had to loosen but I persevered and he now has full movement where before he could hardly hold an empty beaker," he said quietly without pride.

"I must experience this," said Lancelot as he followed with the first finger of his other hand the ligaments described. "I have a number of patients whose hands would benefit from such treatment. Mehmet, you must accompany me on my rounds and give advice."

Mehmet smiled. "Sir, that I will willingly do and I would hope to learn further from you."

I studied that fine young man and knew that he and Jabez were a good match. I could see from the looks they now exchanged how there was a great fondness for each other. I could but hope that their friendship would be allowed to flourish. I was certain my aunt had recognised their inherent qualities and that was why she had suggested they both accompanied her to Careby. My Uncle Digby had made it evident in his trust of Jabez and I was sure he would rise to greater heights in whatever tasks he would be set in the future. I only hoped I might succeed in my own desires.

Our conversation continued until we were disturbed by a waiting-man who said that our dinner would be served in the private dining-room. Lancelot ushered us all through, including Jabez and Mehmet and we found my aunt already there with her maid. Maria would not stay but excused herself and said she would take her meal in her room as she had some needlework she must complete. I wondered if she might think Jabez and Mehmet were acting above themselves but she took both of them by the hand and said she would see them in the morning ready for them to escort my aunt to her coach. From her demeanour I knew this elderly lady was fond of the pair as well.

As Aunt Fanny was the only lady present we had to, perhaps, eat more slowly but the food was of the highest quality. A fine capon, sliced red beef and a smoked ham were given short shrift by all and there was good ale for the men and wine for Aunt Fanny. Lancelot saw our aunt to her room. He returned and, to our amusement, he and Jabez had a churchwarden of aromatic tobacco each. Mehmet shook his head and said he had tried smoking but he preferred to keep his chest clear as he knew many of the visitors to the baths suffered from poor breathing through their love of tobacco.

Lancelot asked how he made that judgement. "There is a clear difference, sir, between those who do not smoke and those who have a pipe or cigar in their mouth most often," he averred. "My father has observed this as well and says he has avoided the habit though the great majority of his friends do smoke and there is a prevalence of coughing and wheezing among them."

"That is a most useful observation," Lancelot said. "I had not come to that final conclusion as most of my patients in the village and around only smoke when they have a penny or two for tobacco." He laughed. "Old skinflint Charters tries to grow his own but his wife burned his last crop in the range as she said the stink was too much for even her to bear. Remember she was a tanner's daughter so must be used to evil smells!"

"But this tobacco is most sweet smelling," Jabez said as he let a stream of pale smoke from his open lips.

Lancelot nodded. "This is from that old departed colony of ours." He laughed. "I must write and ask dear Nicholas to pack a quantity in his belongings when he visits."

Our talk then turned to the forthcoming weddings and I expressed my disappointment we would not be able to attend any as both Robin and I would be at Ashbourne. Lancelot said he would make sure we would be supplied with enough coinage to make our own celebrations. I said I wondered if George Lascelles and Cedric Branscombe would be allowed to leave school to be present on their occasions. Lancelot said they had closer relatives involved so it may be so. "Let us have a glass of port to celebrate in advance and hope for a safe journey tomorrow," he proposed and this was carried out with no abstentions!

Our beds called and the two boys on the previous visit preceded Robin and me up the stairs. I could but ask. "Is the old ranter still misbehaving himself?" They giggled and said their daily disposing of the basins had made him finally desist and he had turned his attention to the White Hart further down Holywell Hill but as the footpath there was much heaped with horseshit his pissing added little.

We slept well and were ready for breakfast and the next stage of the journey. That night in Bedford we dined and slept well again and reached our destination in the afternoon of the next day. There was the usual bustle on our arrival. We were first for we had left my Aunt Fanny's coach some three miles behind us as she wished to stop and visit a friend she had not seen for over two years. Grooms were called to unload our coach and I watched carefully as my chest was unstrapped from the roof and then saw the barrel of wine carefully removed from its place within the coach. As this was happening so Jabez was greeted most heartily by the young men who knew him well. What was most noticeable was the deference the same young men showed to Mehmet. Here was an unknown quantity! A young man himself but showing such bearing and also an undeniable bodily strength. There were glances between the grooms as they were instructed by Mr Clements himself to take the pair's belongings up to the Green Room. This was a bedroom often occupied by overnight guests who had, perhaps, indulged a little too freely in the wine my father had over- generously provided. It was not a palatial room but comfortable. So Jabez would not be accommodated in his parents' house by the gardens. But then, Timmy had the other bedroom there.

Mehmet was staring about him as he said he was not used to the clean air and the brightness of the country, nor of the massiveness of our fine house. Jabez had, of course, spent much time in Careby Hall and had slept many times in my bed to keep me company. Now he was a guest as it were and laughed and said he would nanny Mehmet as he had had to do with me. I think Benjy was a little awestruck at such a change in apparent station and Eamonn was sent to make sure their clothes and possessions were properly unpacked and put away carefully.

We knew Benjy was curious about Mehmet but also by Jabez being treated no longer as a servant. I said very carefully that both were in my Uncle Digby's employ but were at a higher level than ordinary servants. Robin said that should suffice and Benjy was not to gossip. Here was someone else who not long ago was a groom, but now within the family as an equal. Poor Benjy was a little bemused!

He soon was more relaxed and talkative. Rogers, the ex-Constable was gone. He and his family had moved to his father's house in Erasmus Dodd's parish. That is, Erasmus's old parish as there was a new vicar appointed, for Erasmus would be taking up his Fellowship at St Mark's within weeks and was now at the Rectory with his parents. There was some other excitement as Mr Enoch Barker the blacksmith was to be the next Constable though now well into middle age. The proposal was that Isaac Barker would take over from him once he attained full age. He and his brother, Jacob, would move into the Constable's house and be responsible for any no-gooders kept in the cells there. They would still work for their father but receive a small wage also from the Parish rate. Both Robin and I laughed at this news. Any miscreants would soon learn to behave if confronted by that sturdy pair! The next news was quite startling. The swearing rogue who had been sent on his way after his stint in the lockup had been found dead in a ditch not twenty miles away. It was assumed he had lain there undiscovered for some days until a farmer inspecting his crops had been drawn by the barking of his dogs to investigate their agitation. A sum of money had been collected and sent to the wife who was now with her mother in Boston with the surviving children.

We had not been in our room long and had unpacked just one of our chests when we heard the commotion as my Aunt Fanny's coach arrived. We thought it best to keep out of the way and go down to the parlour once a decent interval had elapsed. I heard our unreliable grandfather clock strike four so judged that was a reasonable hour to beg for food and drink. Robin said my gluttony should be sated as I had just eaten two pieces of some chocolate fudge which had, fortuitously, come unwrapped as I took it from its resting-place among the other good things tucked away in the bottom of the chest. "And what might you be chewing," I said as I made a long nose at him and gave him a companionable slap to his arse as I made my way to the door.

My Aunt Fanny was already in the parlour with my mother. Of course Robin and I were given great hugs and kisses by my mother and were silenced with a raised finger before we could launch into any tale of our adventures. "Your cousin Lancelot was kind enough to announce his arrival to me and said you both were well. I suppose a mother and grandmother can wait to be greeted!" I knew she was not angry because both she and Aunt Fanny burst into laughter at our rather downcast looks. I did not tell her about the portrait of Agnes Le Ferreur. That would be presented this evening at dinner!

She indicated we should be seated and there was a trolley with cups and plates and a selection of good things. "You had better eat and that will keep you quiet while I hear news of London and all that is happening there." I knew better than to reply to that and Robin and I busied ourselves making sure Mrs Gray would be kept busy baking more!

As talk was of shops, clothes, theatres, fashions new and fashions out-dated we asked to be excused as soon as our plates and cups had been emptied to our satisfaction. Both my mother and Aunt Fanny smiled and our tales would be told when we were alone with my mother. Robin, however, was rather concerned that he had not been to see the Goodhew family. Dinner would not be until eight o'clock as we had heard my father was in Stamford and would not return until then so we rushed to the Hall stables where Bobby was tending at least six mounts including Blaze and Silver. He wanted to know about our travels but we said he would hear all if he rode out with us on the morrow as we wished to show our guest Mehmet some of our countryside. "Is he that big fellow?" Bobby asked, "Your father said I should get a good strong horse ready for him to ride." That explained the number in the stable. Another would be for Jabez. We confirmed that indeed Mehmet was big and he would need a sturdy mount. Blaze and Silver were glad to see us we were sure. They whinnied as we stroked their muzzles and Bobby saddled them. We cantered along the Hall drive and then, more sedately, rode to the Goodhew residence.

News always travels fast. Our arrival had been noted and the family were waiting for us. We had to distribute our gifts first. Philip was open-mouthed at the fine present of the coloured pencils. He was almost ready to depart for London as his years of study would begin in September. James peered at his two books in French and gave us a searching look. Robin hugged his half-brother and said there were illustrations in the Fables which should help his understanding. I knew my mother would continue with her teaching as she had with Robin and me. Jenny wept openly when she unwrapped one of the porcelain vases. It was a present from both of us Robin said. I dared not say it was a gift from Mr Johnson as he had refused to accept any payment for the four he had given us. I included Robin in that as he had been a companion for 'the ruffians' as well! We had neckerchiefs and handkerchiefs for Steven and also for Liam. We told a little of our story without causing his mother concern over the bandits. Steven had known of Lancelot's mission and we were able to confirm that a suitable resting place had been found. We had to hurry away so as not to be late back at the Hall but Philip's last words as we bade all good night was that the cellar in the Hall had been cleared of much lumber and Uncle Dodd was ready to explore the hidden rooms.

Benjy had come to our room while we were making sure we were clean and tidy and said the table for dinner that night was set for two more than the family. Both Jabez and Mehmet had places so we went along to the Green Room to tell them this and allay any fears they might have of being seated where before they would have stood behind the chairs. I think they were rather ill at ease at first but did smile when I said they had both charmed a Duchess and we were of much lower station than she. However there was no need of worry as the four of us, preceded by Benjy carrying the two parcels I had given him though I carried another, entered the Library. Here were all the Dodds together with my mother and Aunt Fanny and all greeted us warmly with smiles. I had no chance to greet my mother other than to stand by her for at that moment Mr Clements came to the door with my father who bustled in. We four boys were standing and were joined by Lancelot and Erasmus but before we could even bow a greeting my father rushed to his seated sister and knelt and kissed her hand. "Fancy my dear," he said using the pet name I had heard him use before, "A welcome breeze has entered this house on your arrival!"

My Aunt Fanny gave him a playful tap on the shoulder with the fan she was holding. "Sam, you amaze me as usual," she said and leaned forward as he bent down and received a kiss on his cheek. "You have always had a way with words. Father said you would have been better as a huckster on the market-place than a mere country farmer."

"A country farmer!" he said with mock dismay, "A country gentleman, perhaps."

My mother was laughing. "Not a genteel man, though!"

"Louisa, I am hurt." He made a pout and looked around as the rest of us were trying not to laugh or were looking bewildered at the exchange. He jumped up having seen Mehmet and went straight to him after a cursory acknowledgment of the rest of us as we stood and bowed our greeting.

"Ah, Mr Sevinc, I am glad you are with us. I have a great ache where my purse rests as one son tells me he requires a new uniform and another son costs me dear with his fees for school and all that clothing he requires now he grows like a bean up a pole. I need your close attention as it is most painful to feel one's purse emptying so fast that I am weak with the worry of it!"

Poor Mehmet just stared at my father who was enjoying belittling either Torquil or Terence and me. I saw that Jabez standing next to him gripped his hand in companionship. I could not think of some riposte but Lancelot leapt to our defence.

"Uncle Sam, I would say that Mehmet could help cure your bodily pains as he has with Uncle Digby but I am sure those other pains are but figments of your imagination and I could recommend a host of quacks whose remedies would remove more of your money which would cause you even more distress."

Uncle Dodd was laughing. "Sam, you old rogue, do not embarrass your guest."

Mehmet had collected himself after the onslaught and those statements. He bowed his head again. "Sir, I am most honoured to be received within your house and I will recommend a suitable regime to help relieve some of your bodily hurts but I am unable to suggest ways of reducing your other worries. My father has told me that money comes and money goes and happiness follows that pattern but not always at the same time."

Erasmus was amused at this. "I would agree with your father most whole-heartedly". He turned to my father. "Uncle Sam, is that not a philosophy you could adopt with no hurt to your purse as it is freely given. Whatever other demands are made on it I am sure should not diminish your affection for any of your sons and happiness in seeing their progress in this world."

My father was silent for a moment. I stepped forward. "Father may I present you with a token of your son's and grandson's great affection for you. It has been carried without being broached from Riom where Mama's great-uncle kindly gave it to us filled with the finest wine from his own vineyards." I pointed to the barrel which had been placed by the doorway. I had been perplexed over some suitable gift for my father and thought this would be perfect. I had asked the grooms to place it by the Library door when the coach had been unloaded.

My father looked at me questioningly. "All the way from Riom? Is that some foreign place where grandmothers are grown?" Father was in a playful mood. Whatever his errand in Stamford must have been pleasant.

My mother was laughing. "Husband dear, leave the boy alone, you know full well all that history. I saw the barrel there and wondered. It will be of the highest quality for my mother has always spoken highly of her family's vineyards and their products."

My father shrugged his shoulders. "If you say so, my dear." He turned to me. "Thank you, son, for such a gift for I am sure you and your companions must have eyed it wondering if it might be drained and the empty barrel be presented as a convenient footstool." He turned to Jabez. "Jabez, tell me is that not so?"

Jabez was not flummoxed. "Sir, that barrel has been carefully carried. We have not wanted for refreshment of any kind, especially of good wines and ale. Master Tom and Master Robin have been minstrels - as in days of old - and their playing has reaped their reward and ours, too!" He looked at Lancelot who was grinning at the exchange. "Dr Lancelot has practised his craft also to the advantage of us all." Jabez bowed his head and also tried not to grin. "Monsieur le Comte de Roanne was kindness itself and your son and grandson acquitted themselves handsomely in his orchestra which was appreciated by some of the highest quality in Paris." This riposte did silence my father who had no knowledge of that part of our adventures.

Uncle Dodd was laughing openly. "Jabez, you have whetted our appetites for more. I propose that the barrel is broached and Mr Browning should share his gift with thirsty mortals at dinner." I could see Mr Clements at the doorway shaking his head slightly. Lancelot must have noted his agitation.

"Father, it would be better to let the wine rest after its travels. I can vouch that the bottles we had at dinner with Mr Johnson were excellent but I would allow a day or so for the larger quantity to settle." He looked at my father. "Uncle Sam, that is my opinion."

My father was not quietened for long. "So, nephew, I have to delay my tasting of whatever that barrel might contain?"

"Uncle Sam, I have a present for all which is resting in the diningroom. That should be sufficient for tonight." As I was standing by his side he nudged me. "It is a liqueur like no other." Oh! St Mark's was to be deprived of yet another flagon of its Fire! My father realised he was beaten so waved his hands and all were then seated except me.

I picked up the parcel I had brought down and went to my mother. "Mama, as well as the present for father I was given this to pass to you." I undid the paper covering the small portrait of Agnes le Ferreur. My mother stared at it in amazement.

"Is that my great-grandmama?" she breathed. There were tears in her eyes.

My aunt sitting next to her looked at it as she held it forward. The sconce on the table behind them illuminated it more than the light from the window. "It is the image of you, my dear. I can see the likeness," she said quietly. "Show the others." My mother handed it to her and she passed it to Uncle Dodd who nodded as he looked at it. Erasmus was next and my father waited patiently until it was given to him.

"My dear," he said, "That likeness is there. Does your mother have a copy?" My mother shook her head. "It would be good if she could see it."

My mother smiled. "It must go to her." Lancelot was nodding. If he was going to Scotland he would be able to visit Chester on his way.

I was not finished. I signalled to Benjy who was also standing by the door. He came forward with the two parcels he had carried down. I presented one to my mother and the other to Aunt Matty Dodd. "These are from all those travellers to foreign parts," I said in imitation of my father. The two decorated porcelain vases were unwrapped and there were cries of approbation as they were examined and held up for general approval.

Robin stood and went to where my father was seated. "Grandfather, please accept this as a token also from foreign parts." I had not realised but he had brought down the package in which the embroidered hat was wrapped. There was laughter and clapping as my father removed the paper and the elegant round hat was displayed. He placed it on his head. "Worthy of any Gentilhomme d'Angleterre," Robin said with a quite perfect accent.

My father smiled and put his arms out and hugged his grandson. "As good as a barrel of wine," he said as Robin was held tight.

Mr Clements bowed toward my father who nodded to him. It was a signal for our footmen to come in bearing trays of glasses of sherry and plates of nuts and small pastries. There was a moment's quietness as we sipped and sampled, then my mother asked Lancelot to tell of our journey. This continued throughout dinner with Robin, Jabez and I taking up parts of the story and it more or less finished as we toasted our companionship and safe return with a glass of St Mark's Fire. My father had been silent during all this time.

"That is a story to be recorded I am sure but to a little more news. I do not wish to dampen all your happiness but my business in Stamford today concerned my future in this County. It has been suggested I stand as a Member for Stamford at the forthcoming election." There were gasps around the table as we had remained there. He smiled. "However, I have refused the offer and my school friend, now Mayor of Stamford, will stand instead." He wagged a finger at us. "I saw the looks on your faces just now. Were they dismay at my first announcement and relief when I said I would not be spending time in London?"

Uncle Dodd was clearly most amused. "You are behind times, Sam. I was approached some two months ago and asked if you should be asked. I said you would serve most faithfully if you agreed and were elected. I was sure though that you would refuse though I had hopes you might rise to be Chancellor of the Exchequer and propose a special stipend for impoverished clergymen. I did not add that though I have news of my own."

Erasmus was laughing now. "Father, let me announce that." He stood and raised his glass. "To the Reverend Dr Alfred Dodd, our Archdeacon to be!"

Glasses were refilled and raised. I wasn't sure of the role and duties of an Archdeacon but remembered that the previous one had been judged a strange fellow. No doubt Uncle Dodd would fill that position with his usual straightforwardness. He stood now and bowed.

"Thank you one and all," he said with his usual smile. He looked at my father in his place at the top of the table. "Sam, I too will have a new hat. I am informed by the bishop's secretary I must begin to appear in it once I have received his Lordship's blessing and ride to inspect all the parishes under my jurisdiction."

Erasmus laughed. "It is most handsome. A tall hat with strings attached. I remember trying on the old Archdeacon's hat when a boy. It fell down below my ears and I would not aspire to such eminence."

His father held up his glass. "Another toast. To the new Fellow of St Mark's!"

It was Erasmus's turn to bow his head.

It was now late and all looked tired. Jabez and Mehmet had acquitted themselves well and I saw my father take them both by the arm as he bade them goodnight. He whispered something to Jabez which made him nod and smile. I would not ask. It was a private thing. They were smiling as Benjy led the four of us up the stairs. We also bade them goodnight with hugs of friendship. Mehmet whispered to me. "I am most privileged to be here." I whispered back. "We are privileged to have you as a friend. Be a good companion to Jabez." His hug told me all.

Robin and I were weary but that did not prevent us showing our love for each other as we settled in bed. We wondered if Jabez and Mehmet were enjoying the closeness we felt for each other. I asked Robin if he had noted that gesture of Jabez's in holding Mehmet's hand to give him confidence. He had and said there was no doubt of the great fondness between them. Our fondness for each other took over then and twice before we fell asleep our love passed between us.

The following days were busy for each of us. Jabez had taken Mehmet to meet his father and mother on the morning after the arrival. His mother was overjoyed at seeing her younger son once more. His father was pleased he had found good employment but seemed a little hesitant over his rise in station. Jabez said his father had told him he must not allow that to turn his head. He should always remember he was a representative of an old and respected family. Jabez was adamant he would never forget his roots. Of course, young Timmy was introduced and showed the pair his work in the garden. There was no doubt both Jabez and Mehmet were taken by the goodness of that young lad. Timmy had a companion worker. The young lad, Paul, the one who had been treated for his injured hand by Lancelot, was busy making sure the ripening apricots were well-watered. He looked most happy and said he was to be employed now in the gardens.

We found Mehmet to be a most delightful companion as he and Jabez accompanied us on other visits and rides. That afternoon we visited the forge to congratulate Mr Barker and Isaac on their new positions. Mehmet was most amused at being offered a situation as blacksmith in place of Isaac Barker when he became Constable. Isaac almost chased Robin from the forge when he suggested Mehmet should be the Constable instead. Mehmet said that being a blacksmith might be another trade for him. He then astounded us as he stood by the anvil and flexing his legs lifted it easily to be level with his chest. When he settled it down again Isaac was full of admiration and praise and confessed it took both himself and his brother to lift that very heavy object. Jacob whispered he would wish to see Mehmet naked to judge his muscles.

The fulfilment of this desire was to happen that particular day. Later that afternoon we made our way down to the pool by the river as it was particularly hot. Timmy had been fetched from the gardens to accompany us and we all stripped naked and dashed into the water. As we frolicked who should appear but Isaac and Jacob riding and leading two mounts to be taken to the Varley Arms. Two other naked youths joined in the splashing and diving. Truly Mehmet did outdo both Isaac and Jacob in the size of his muscles. I wondered though at the sight of his pizzle. I saw his naked acorn but his length was no more than either Robin or me and he was some four years older. I did note that when lying in the sun later, after Isaac and Jacob had left us to deliver their charges, Jabez was holding Mehmet's hand and there was a definite thickening and lengthening before he turned over to hide himself. Timmy had been watching, too, and his peg also began that motion. This was a signal for Robin and me to attack and tickle him which we knew had even more effect as he squirmed and twisted under fingers on his ribs. Jabez was no slouch and was soon making Mehmet wriggle and writhe under his hands as well. There must have been a nod or two in our direction as Robin and I were then on our backs struggling against the weight of Jabez and Mehmet across our legs and the probing fingers of Timmy who was taking his revenge. Lastly Jabez was set upon and his mighty weapon was at full stretch as four other lads made him a quivering wreck of laughter. Four lads sat back and each displayed their own erect rods of differing dimensions. Though Jabez beat us all young Timmy was next and from my view Robin, Mehmet and I equalled in our length other than for our covering skin. Timmy could not contain himself. He looked Mehmet straight in the eye. "Mehmet, you match my statue!"

Mehmet was puzzled until Robin told of the naked African carving given to Timmy by old Miss Barnes. Mehmet looked down at his own circumcised stem. "I must examine that," he said. Our unruly Jabez could not forbear from suggesting a comparison should be made. I was glad Robin did not disclose his calculation of possible length as I was sure Mehmet did not exceed five and a half inches and might be discomfited. Though Mehmet saw the statue that evening and admired the artistry in its making there were no other comments made, though rude Robin held up six fingers behind his back.

Another day we did visit Miss Barnes who we knew had a liking for Jabez as he had been such a good boy, in her opinion, when he was a youngster and his mother worked in the house. She was captivated with Mehmet and showed him a log of one of her father's voyages which had taken him along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and mentioned he had visited the port of Antalya on the Turkish shore. I hoped she might have presented him with one of the marble carvings!

One day at luncheon Lancelot came hurrying in, hungry as ever he said, bearing two letters. He had received replies from my sister and his friend in Edinburgh concerning Marie Forsythe. There was glad news but also sad news. Mr Forsythe, her late husband's father, was a respected lawyer and Mrs Forsythe was well-known for her involvement in all layers of polite Society. James, the three-year-old, was well and thriving and bright and cheerful according to Peggy, my sister. He was loved and the grandparents doted on him. Lancelot's friend, also a doctor, knew the family well and wrote that the boy was forward for his age but Marie had a weak chest and was confined to her room at times. Alistair Duncannon's diagnosis was that she most probably had consumption but was being well-attended to by her own doctor a member of the Faculty of Edinburgh's medical college. Lancelot said he had written that morning to the Fontanes in Paris and had been quite open about Marie's condition. He said if she was sickening then the clean air of Scotland would be better than the smoke and stink of Paris.

Mehmet was also kept busy as my father received a massage at least three mornings a week. Both Robin and I were also eager recipients of his ministrations and lay side by side as he pummelled and pressed, squeezed and pounded our muscles and was not disconcerted when we turned over displaying our taut members which received our own kneading when he left the room. Mehmet and I accompanied Lancelot on many of his visits to patients and I learned a deal about how muscles and ligaments were attached to our skeletons. Mehmet loosened a number of withered and stiff fingers and limbs and Lancelot confided that Mehmet had skills which he could only copy secondhand.

Robin spent much time with his brothers especially when they were being taught by Uncle Dodd. Robin commented that both Philip and James were good scholars and enjoyed learning. The two youngsters joined us on several hot afternoons and bathed in the pool. Mehmet was a special favourite as he could pick up both, one under each arm, and dash into the water where they were dropped and then they harried him as they darted like minnows grabbing at his arms and legs as he swam away from them.

Philip made a number of chaste drawings of our naked cavorting but said he had many images remembered which incurred several slaps to his own bare backside and injunctions from Robin not to draw anything he could not show his mother. He smiled and agreed!

We knew the cellar had been cleared of much of the lumber and Uncle Dodd said he had been saving his own exploration until we were all present. It was dark and musty as we descended the stairs into the cavernous space. We had a candle each and had to beware of still remaining boxes and old furniture and marvelled at the pillars and arches holding up the house above. Uncle Dodd said this was only one of four cellars two of which he knew were almost empty. The other was where father kept his wine locked away! Philip led the way to where the iron door was. It had been locked but a key had been found which fitted the lock and slowly the door was opened. The creaks were unearthly and I for one had shivers up my spine. The door led to a small triangular antechamber containing nothing but a rough bench and an iron-runged ladder leading up. Philip had already ascended this with Uncle Dodd watching and it was safe. We were told there were identical rooms on the ground floor and on the floor above but, again, all there was in each was a rough bench. Uncle Dodd laughed. "Nothing of value. If there had been anything it was cleared when that door was locked. This was a Priest Hole but we do not know if a priest ever used it."

We were allowed up two at a time and I wondered what it would have been like to be a Catholic priest in those troubled times. I thought of all those who had been caught and killed and recalled what the twins had said about the slaughter of the Huguenots in Paris and the wholesale slaughter during the Terror. Where was the goodness of God when all these wicked acts were happening?

I was quite glad to be out of that cellar and vowed I did not want to enter it again. However, Uncle Dodd and the two young Goodhews were down there again another day as some of the boxes were locked and might contain things of interest. Locks were prised open and moth-eaten old clothing or tattered books and documents were in some with discarded pewter and pots in others. However, one did reveal treasures. This was a sturdy wooden chest and had two locks. Inside was a carefully wrapped bundle. Uncle Dodd said he held the candles as Philip lifted it out. When they tore away the decayed woolen wrapping there were two portraits face to face. These were the portraits of my grandfather and grandmother which had been thought destroyed. My father was overjoyed when he returned to the house that afternoon to find them displayed in the Library. That evening there was a great celebration with all present, including the Goodhew family, for my father decreed that champagne was in order. Uncle Dodd and Philip were toasted for making that great discovery. It was uncanny that the family likeness had been handed down. My aunts resembled their mother and my father had the features of his father. I could also see my brother Torquil's eyes and my brother Terence's nose and mouth most definitely in their grandfather's face. Jabez poked me in the back. "It won't be long before some young whipper-snapper will have those fine whiskers, eh?" There was more merriment as the small portraits of the four brothers and sisters were set below those of their father and mother and it was decided that my Uncle Billy would be given his for a wedding present!

Of course, the barrel of wine was broached and bottled under the supervision of Mr Clements. It appeared at several of the dinners my parents presided at when friends and neighbours were entertained. Squire Matthews was particularly delighted with its quality and was always ready with an empty glass. Twice when he was present after that the wine was not in evidence!

Our holidays from school were coming to an end much too quickly. There was no news of young Freddy accompanying us back to Ashbourne. We had ridden out to Moss Hall with Lancelot to see Colonel Neville who said the lad was happy now at home which confirmed our suspicion the Colonel knew of the mother and her previous strictures. She must have changed her opinion of the boy now she knew of his particular talent. No doubt we would hear more once we were back at Ashbourne. We noted that repairs had been made to the mill and that a cart was loaded with gravel from the river bed so the Colonel's finances would be helped with the income from these enterprises.

At the end of August Philip Goodhew was taken to London by his father to begin his years of study at the Royal Schools. We heard he was happy, too. The Harrisons were to be his guardians and from his father's report young Philip had already made his mark with the presentation to his tutors of his portfolio of drawings he had prepared over the past year. His progress would be followed with great interest.

My Aunt Fanny and her entourage would be remaining at Careby until the beginning of October when she would then return to London. Jabez had been kept busy in that he had received a letter from Uncle Digby with instructions to take a package to an address in Grantham. No one asked him what he knew about it but I had been inquisitive enough to listen to the conversation when he asked my father if he knew the address and if he might borrow a mount. My father gave him some instructions on the place he had to visit and also passed him some coins as he would have to stay overnight. I heard one word of the conversation which interested me - it was 'railway'. Our own interest in this was also whetted by rides out as far as the excavations and bridges being built on the route from Grantham towards us. We were told once the surveyors had finished from Essendine to Peterborough we could expect the navigators to start preparing the ground for the rails and crossings through Careby sometime next year.

The fateful day came for our own departure and Robin and I set off accompanied by our faithful Natty Dyer as our groom on that now familiar journey to Ashbourne. Rowley Roberts and Peters were our coachmen though Robin and I rode Silver and Blaze alongside Natty on his Kerry. Our chests had been packed and there were presents included for our fagmasters and friends as well as two succulent hams each to share with our schoolfellows. The journey passed uneventfully and as we approached Ashbourne so other coaches and riders hailed us and greetings were passed. We said farewell to our coachmen once our belongings had been unloaded. We entered the door to Ridley House to find no Pullen. I noted the room was newly painted and the air seemed fresher. There was much laughter coming from the stairway as we went up. Wonder of wonders! There were boys openly pissing into the shining metal troughs in the small rooms by the stairs on the ground floor and the first floor. The Vespasians - as we were told they were now called - had been crafted and installed while we were away. I parted from Robin as we reached our top floor and made our separate ways to our rooms. The door to the room I shared with George and Theo was open. I waited and looked in as my approach must have been announced for there standing side by side were my fagmasters arrayed in the short gowns and mortarboards with their staves of office as Praepostors!

To be continued:

P.S. Please make a donation to Nifty to keep the cite running. Full details of how to make a payment are given in the link on the Nifty Home page. Thanks. Jo.