Tom Browning's Schooldays
By
Joel
Chapter SeventyNine
I woke early. It was only half-light but I had a pressing need for the jakes for my bladder was full. Robin and George were still fast asleep as I slipped out of bed and had that welcome relief. I did not let the water flush for the noise would have woken the slumberers but as I stood there by the pan I thought I would play a jape on George. I took several pieces of the soft paper and made a ball of them. There was water in the washbowls from the previous night so I dampened the wad and put it by the side of the bed in a place I judged would be where he would place his feet when he got out of bed. I was not afraid the boys would discover it when they brought us our hot water for if my bladder was full I had no doubt dear George would be bursting. I crept back into bed and heard the church clock chime six. I pretended to snore which caused Robin to turn away from me. The movement must have roused George who gave an almost anguished cry. He was out of bed in a moment and must have trodden straight onto the sodden mass. I heard a second cry of 'What?' before he rushed into the jakes and let fly the contents of his over-full bladder.
I had turned in the bed while he was pissing and opened my eyes slowly when he returned to his side. I saw him bend down and even in the dawn light I saw the look of puzzlement on his face as he regarded the now-flattened clump in his hand.
"Did you not have your wash-cloth?" I asked very quietly. "I would not have relished that dropping on me!"
He glared at me. He turned and took the offending object into the jakes. He was considerate as he did not let the water flush and Robin slept on.
He came to my side of the bed. "Did I...?" The question hung in the air.
"Most vigorously," I lied, "And a fine performance for all to witness."
"All?" he said quietly. "I do not remember other than being helped to undress by Jabez and Mehmet..." He paused. "...And then?"
He must have seen my twitching lips. I could not dissemble any longer. "Did you not examine it?" I said and had to snigger. "Did you think it was from the night before?"
George was not slow in coming to conclusions. "You?" he queried vehemently. "It was water?... ...And they did not witness?" I laughed for it was so. I was taken by the shoulders and turned in the bed and the coverlet was removed to reveal my nakedness. I received four sharp slaps to my arse-cheeks and then was enveloped in a great hug. "Oh, Tom, what relief and happiness I have had these past two days. Nay, in your company and that of all these other friends I feel I am free of all which has burdened me for almost half my lifetime."
This happy outburst had wakened Robin who turned and placed his arms round George. "Your friendship over this past year has been part of my freedom, too." Without a thought he bussed him on the cheek. George's smile was radiant. He bent down and repaid that kiss.
The pair of us dragged George back into bed and the three of us lay content and holding each other close in silence. We had no need to speak but each knew that ties were made which could not be broken.
Just as the church clock chiming seven was heard so our reverie was broken. Jabez and Mehmet came in without knocking and clanked their pitchers as they set them on the hearth. George leapt from the bed. "You noisy buggers!" he shouted and then as they stood side-by-side wondering at the outburst he clutched both to him round their shoulders. They in their grey livery, he in his nakedness. They both recognised he was not angered and smiled for he also bussed both on their cheeks before he let go of them.
"I shall be going today, but God willing, I will return in the autumn and will plague the lives out of you with all my demands. My demands of friendship, nothing more."
Jabez put out a hand and took George's. "Master Lascelles, I could not wish for more. I feel our lives will become entangled even further."
"Sir, my life will not be the same without your friendship," said Mehmet who held both of theirs in his own hand. He bent forward and his and George's foreheads met and pressed together.
Both Robin and I joined them and between us we pledged our full allegiance.
We heard then that Timmy was comforting the two waifs who were almost distraught over his leaving them, but Antonio and Carlo were there with Karem with promises that they had nothing to fear. I said we should go and see them before we left and George promised he would be an 'uncle' to them. Jabez laughed and said the imps were in awe of him already and he would have them as well as Jacob and Daniel as honorary nephews.
We washed, dressed and readied ourselves. We were in the breakfast room making sure we were well-fed before our journey when Mr Topping came in and said Master Francis Clifford had arrived. Although he had already breakfasted he did accept a small portion of egg, bacon, fried bread and a dish of tea which he said would fill any remaining holes. I could see that he and George would be firm friends. We had almost finished when Philip and John Harrison appeared. Naturally, they had to be offered further sustenance as Philip said they had already travelled some distance already. That is, across a few streets of London!
Robin, George and I excused ourselves and left the trio happily talking together with Philip already sketching something on his notepad. We made our way upstairs and found the room where the waifs and Timmy had been accommodated. Antonio, Carlo and Karem were there as well and the two youngsters were smiling with all the attention. Timmy was ready to leave and had a bulging bag with him. Antonio was the spokesman and said that he would make sure Daniel and Jacob were happy. They all embraced Timmy as we said we had come to take him to Careby. There were some sad looks then but George had a shilling apiece for each of the young ones and caused laughter when he said they had to spend it a penny at a time. He may have been a Viscount's son but four boys would not let him go before he had received a kiss from each. Karem looked on and just smiled his inscrutable smile. This broadened as I pressed a half-crown on him. "I will look after them," he murmured and bowed his head.
We returned to the breakfast room where Francis was gazing in wonderment at a drawing Philip had given him. He handed it to George who shook his head, also in amazement. It was just a few lines but showed a discernible Francis sitting on a harrow with the shafts up and attached to an invisible horse other than four or so faint lines for its backside. John Harrison was grinning. "He did say he went to Harrow!"
"'Tis the only harrow I know," said Philip and held up his hands, a pencil in one, his sketchpad in the other. What talent!
We had to say farewell to my Uncle Digby. He was flanked by Mr Topping and Mr Purrett as he sat and surveyed us. He looked rested and did not have that pensive air of the past few days. He made no direct mention of our adventure but he had a special word with Timmy saying whatever had happened must be placed in the past and he could only foresee a useful and worthwhile future for him. The younger boys with Timmy and Francis then left us for my uncle had more to say to George, Robin and me.
George was pleased for my Uncle Digby observed with a smile that any tailor's bills and any others for purchases we had made would be sent to Her Majesty direct for payment so his father, or any of us, would not have that expense. He asked if we had the signed proofs of purchases from the outfitter and the hatter. We had and passed them to Mr Purrett. Robin whispered that he would like to see Her Majesty's face as she looked at the bill, especially for boy's drawers. My uncle heard that and picked up a sheet of paper. "Was ist das?" he said in a high-pitched voice which made us grin for we had heard that the Queen spoke German almost all the time.
My uncle then confided that all our new clothes and those for Timmy and the waifs would be charged to a special account according to a letter he had received from Mr Summerson. He also told us that he had had a personal note from Sir Robert commending us and suitable sums were being calculated for our 'expenses'. He emphasised that word and remarked that the government always used words in their own way. We would have to wait and see what might be determined. He said to George that he expected to see him again in the autumn and to me that my cousin Lancelot should arrange a visit soon. He nodded towards Lancelot's device gently blowing away in a corner. He handed me two letters, one for my father and one for my mother. I already had one for my mother from Aunt Fanny who had sent a message to us at breakfast saying she wished us all a safe journey. He shook us each by the hand as did Mr Topping and Mr Purrett. We left the study in a much happier mood than on the fateful occasion when we arrived.
Our carriage was loaded and waiting for us with Terence, in plain riding dress, chatting to Mr Churcher and Caleb, also in britches and jerkin, laughing with Jacobson, our driver-to-be, over something. Terence gave Philip a friendly cuff on greeting and said he wanted another picture from him to give our mother. He pointed to Caleb, in his plain dress, "I must watch what I say now in front of Sergeant-Major Bottom!" So Caleb had received his promotion!
With that Mr Topping came out from the house and handed Terence a leather satchel. Nothing was said but my brother had an errand to perform. He passed the satchel to me and I was told to keep it safe and Mr Topping added it was to be taken from the carriage on any stop we made.
We did not have any of the greys harnessed but four fine geldings who, with careful handling, should last the journey, at least to Bedford. It was not quite nine o'clock when Terence and Caleb mounted their steeds and Jacobson and Jemmy Trodd took their places on the box. Seven boys inside the coach tried to peer out of the windows all at once as Mr Churcher gave the order to 'Drive on'.
I saw George close his eyes as we trundled out from the Mews into Charles' Street. I nudged him for the front door of the house was open and four young boys, Antonio, Carlo, Jacob and Daniel, under the supervision of Karem, waved us farewell. George smiled and waved through the open window. "I feel content now," he said quietly. Timmy was smiling, too, and he was going home, content as well.
The journey progressed without incident. We chatted together incessantly and there were books and cards also to while away the time between stopping for calls of nature, food and drink and beds for the two nights. Each of us played at being postillion at the back of the coach for the weather was good and we could watch the world go by as Francis Clifford said. Poor Philip moaned at times for he saw things he wished to draw but the jolting of the coach made it too difficult for him to control his pencil on the page. Our last few miles were slowed by drovers on the road with cattle and sheep so it was late on Good Friday afternoon when we arrived at Careby Hall.
News had reached the Hall that we were on our way. We had stopped to view the completed almshouses where two of the gardeners were setting out small plots. They said a procession was planned for Easter Sunday for the buildings were to be blessed by the Rector and the first old folk would take occupation on Easter Monday. The boy who was with them must have been sent across the fields to tell of our imminent arrival.
Our father was in the courtyard with Mr Bottom and several grooms who were ready to take over the carriage. Father was greeted first by Terence who had leapt from his steed and embraced him. Caleb received a hand raised in greeting as he bowed his head. We seven rather dishevelled youngsters tumbled out and stood wriggling and stretching our arms and legs for a day's journey meant cramped limbs from the confines of the coach.
"What is all this!" my father roared looking at us all in a row, "'Tis a ladies' tea-party lost its way?" He turned and pointed back to the driveway. "The Varley Arms is that road!" Mr Bottom had heard my father before so looked on wryly. The grooms were grinning. Terence took no notice and he and Caleb led their mounts away.
Both John Harrison and Francis Clifford looked aghast at the outburst. George sensed my father's humour. He knew the family were all stitched from the same cloth! He went up to him and bowed his head. "Sir, I have returned those two young maids who flitted to London Town and found some others who would prefer country air!"
The two 'young maids' pushed him out of the way. "Father, I do believe your eyes are weaker..." I got no further as my father enveloped both me and his grandson in a great hug. He said a welcome to George over our heads. I had not managed to pass him the letter from Uncle Digby. That would have to wait.
He let us go and surveyed the other four who were now standing still and staring. Before either John or Francis could be introduced my father took Timmy into his arms. "My boy, you are safe. I have heard terrible things, but you are safe." I saw both he and Timmy had tears in their eyes as he stood then holding Timmy at arm's length. Mr Bottom stepped forward and took Timmy's hand, smiled, and embraced him, too.
I waited and then brought Francis Clifford and John Harrison to my father and introduced them formally. They relaxed for he said they were most welcome but he always had to see if young colts were lively. A voice came from behind the pair. "There's me, too." It was young Philip. "Please, sir, her Ladyship said I should give you this." He held up a roll of paper. He was trying to suppress a grin. My father unrolled it and stared. Philip pointed at the paper. "Her Ladyship said you wished you had a statue like that for you could hang your hat on one arm and your cloak on the other." I stared, too. It was an exact copy of Curly but with a hat and a cloak as he had described. I looked down. No, there was nothing covering his delicate appendage which was in full, but small, view. I almost said there was a ledge for gloves as my father let out a roar of laughter.
"Philip, I aver 'twas Sir Digby who primed you with this?" he said, "Then my dear sister would have aided and abetted him. Is that not so?"
Philip's grin told all. There were smiles all round as the others looked at the drawing.
More were coming into the courtyard. Benjy and Eamonn were with the twins and the boy Paul. They were followed by James Goodhew who rushed over to his brothers. My father was laughing and waved his arms at us and shooed them all indoors. Mr Bottom said something to Timmy and he joined the disappearing horde. I hurried over to Mr Bottom and said Timmy would need to see Mrs Bottom and my mother. He said his wife was waiting in the kitchen and he would be at home with Caleb in due time. "That boy is a treasure. I have prayed so hard for him to be safe and he is. Praise the Lord!" I just said there was much to tell and Caleb would know. At that moment Caleb came back and father and son went off together. Two most upright countrymen. The courtyard was now clear except for my father.
He looked at me and smiled as I held out the letter from Uncle Digby. "Is that from Digby?" he asked. I nodded. "I have received one already which says you three have been most brave. I will hear more privately no doubt from Terence but see your mother now who has been mightily worried." I received another hug and my good father also had another tear in his eye.
I hurried into the side entrance to the Hall and peered into the breakfast room which was laid out with all manner of delicacies and was crowded with boys either beginning to eat or serving the good things. I had a duty to perform. I had to see my mother so went along to the parlour. She had Timmy and Mrs Bottom with her. Both my mother and Mrs Bottom were in tears with Timmy looking on and I heard him say he was safe and was most content and pleased to be home. They both looked happier with that statement.
I went over and knelt by my mother's side. She put a hand on my shoulder so I leaned over and she kissed me tenderly on the forehead. "Oh, Tom, I am so glad to see you safe and sound. My sister says how brave you boys have been. Our Timmy is home, too. 'Tis Providence it is Eastertide. There is much to celebrate!"
Yes, we did have much to celebrate but I was troubled on one hand. Even Black Jack must have had a soul and he was now consigned, no doubt, to an unknown pauper's grave. I was not sure of the 'Raging Fires of Hell' which Zebediah and the other ranters consigned all us sinners to. There was no doubt that Black Jack was a sinner, so where was he now resided? I would confide my concerns to Uncle Dodd who was sure to give me good counsel on this and set my mind at rest.
I was holding the two letters from Aunt Fanny and Uncle Digby. I handed them to her and she said she would read them later. I stood up and bowed my head to Mrs Bottom in greeting. Her smile was radiant in reply as she held onto Timmy's arm.
My mother looked over to Mrs Bottom and she, too, was smiling. "Margery, you will have a houseful with Caleb home," she said in her firm voice. "We also have much to do for the Village Dance on Monday. I suggest that as Timmy and Benjamin are good friends and the other boys will be here, too, then Timmy can share Benjamin's room."
My mother wanted Timmy to feel even safer. Timmy was quite overcome. "Please, ma'am, I do not wish to be a nuisance," he whispered.
Before my mother could reply there was a quiet rap on the door. It was Benjy who had young Paul, the boy who had been with Timmy when he was kidnapped, with him. Paul looked wide-eyed when he saw Timmy and then bobbed his head to my mother. She smiled at him. "My boy, I know you have been most worried but Timmy is home now. You have tended the garden well while he has been away so I have heard. Go down to the kitchen for I am sure Mrs Gray will have something for you." Young Paul was happier now and bobbed his head again as Benjy led him off. My mother had his welfare at heart even more as further instructions were given. "Margery, the boy needs new boots, send him to Mr Venables in the morning." She smiled again. "My husband's account."
My instructions came next. "Tom, send Benjamin back here when you go to the breakfast room. I am sure you need food after that journey." She laughed as she knew I was fond of my stomach. I was most polite. I bowed my head both to her and to Mrs Bottom again and gave Timmy a surreptitious wink which did raise a smile. I had chatted to Timmy a deal on the ride home and found his greatest desire was to make his way in life as an apothecary. I was determined to do whatever I could to help that wish come true.
The breakfast room was a hive of activity with Benjy and Eamonn busy pouring beakers of tea or handing plates of pastries and cakes around. I gave my mother's instructions to Benjy who had a large teapot in his hand. Here was I, the master's son, having to pour my own beaker of tea and also to replenish George's, Robin's and Francis's. But we had found Francis to have no side and though also a Viscount's son like our George he treated us all as equals. He was smiling as he held out his beaker for more. I saw he wanted to say something so we moved to a less-crowded part of the room.
"I was wary of coming here," he said, then shook his head as if in wonderment. "I have been lonely in London but I know I will not be anymore. This seems such a happy house and you have good friends."
I said we would have plenty of entertainment before he left to return to Harrow. I surmised my brother Terence would remain here until that time and they would travel back together. Francis said he was a good rider and I promised we would be out and about in the countryside as much as possible. We rejoined the others and found that Philip and his brother James would be sharing an upper room here at the Hall for Steven Goodhew was having changes made to their house and his workshop. James laughed as I was told this as they were also having a proper water closet made and it would be the first in the rest of the village. Mr Flaxman at the Varley Arms also wanted to see designs so Philip would be busy drawing! I said if he misbehaved he would be put in the Priest's Hole which earned me a sneer then a smile. We also found that George and Francis would be sharing the room next to ours which meant I and my dear Robin would be alone and able to share all our intimacies with each other to their fullest extent.
As all the food had now been consumed we made our way upstairs to our allotted quarters with instructions from Mr Clements not to emerge until the dinner gong sounded. I knew that Steven and Jenny Goodhew would be at the table and I hoped their dear son would be in his fine London apparel. Philip had travelled, like the rest of us, in everyday wear of cloth britches and jacket. Tonight, I hoped, he would appear in his yellow, I mean, ochre trousers!
Robin and I accompanied George and Francis to their room. George was smiling and happy and set to sorting out his chest of belongings which had been left behind here before our London adventure. He was so pleased with his new tailcoat and trousers which he thought he might wear this evening. Robin said he hoped he would be wearing his new drawers the Queen had paid for. We had to explain that to Francis, who had not been present when Uncle Digby had jested about the payment, and he was mightily amused. "I would wish to see you on your first parade in Her Majesty's presence. I believe you have the command 'Draw your swords!' or would it be 'Show your drawers!'" Poor George. He said he now had three tormentors!
Two very happy boys went along to their own room. It had been readied for us with hot water on the hearth and we knew we could open the windows without admitting the London stench and foul air. We stripped and washed ourselves and also decided to dress in our London finery. We also had our French sprigged waistcoats which we found neatly folded side by side in a drawer. We dressed except for our tailcoats and reminisced over the journey back. We knew now that Francis had a ready wit and on the journey had kept us entertained with the absurdities of some of his fellow pupils who seemed quite suited to be in Pratt's House if they had been at Ashbourne. He was quite candid when he averred that anyone lower than a Viscount's son such as he would be the butt of subtle and unsubtle cruelties meted out by older pupils whose only concerns in life were of their own superiority as seniors or of the next Hunt or Shoot they might be invited to. He had shrugged his shoulders as we chatted one night in our shared room at the inn. "I must admit I have felt a cane or two across my arse even from my inferiors, though elders." He had grinned then. "I also admit I bought three penn'orth of jalap from the apothecary's and I believe two of those had sorer arses than I from adding some of that to the hot cordial they had on the trivet!" I explained to a puzzled Robin and George that jalap was a powerful purgative and Francis said he had learned its properties for he had been dosed with it when he was shit-bound at the age of seven.
We had much to ponder over the happenings of the past few days and decided we should each write an aide-memoire for not only were we sure we would be asked to explain further but also we needed to keep our own record of events. We had just made this decision when Benjy came to the door full of apologies that we had no valet to assist us. He had been preparing the dining room with Mr Clements for there would be a good number at the table tonight with all the boys, my mother and father, Terence, the Goodhews and my Aunt Matty. He did not think Uncle Dodd or Lancelot would be here to dine, at least not until later. Uncle Dodd was riding out to visit sick parishioners and Lancelot was doing the same for patients. "Your uncle looks most fine in his new riding habit as Archdeacon," Benjy said. "Your father has provided a good new mount for him for old Queen Bess is now quite ancient." My uncle had named the horse that for it had a touch of white about its neck like the ruff in a portrait of the Queen he had shown us.
When the gong sounded we were ready to descend to the dining room. It seemed Terence was in charge of all us boys for he had us standing to attention, military-wise, behind our chairs when my mother and father, the Goodhews and Aunt Matty entered the room. There was a great burst of laughter when my father said he was minded to send for the bird scarers for he had not seen so many hungry crows in a while all with their beaks agape. My mother, from the other end of the table told us to sit and Terence murmured 'And gullets will be filled!'.
It was Good Friday so we knew we would be served fish. The first course was soup. A most substantial vegetable soup with cut loaves of fresh bread. There followed two entrees of differing fish with potatoes seethed in milk and cream and a topping of grated cheese, or potatoes mashed with cut chives added. We older lads had been allowed a glass of white wine with the fish with the others having a cordial. Following that course Mrs Gray had made a great favourite of coloured jellies in three different shapes; one was new and looked like a castle turret having piped cream around its base. There was an almond sauce and a frumenty with eggs and a hint of rum to accompany those. A little merriment occurred for a dish of candied figs and other fruit was placed on the table to end the meal. Terence remarked that he remembered our old Nanny giving him ripe figs when he was young and he had disgraced himself. There was no need for him to say more as all knew those effects which might also occur with the preserved fruit. My mother gave him a sharp look and I think my father was minded to make some comment but merely winked at Timmy who seemed somewhat perturbed by such levity in the presence of older folk. Francis and I exchanged grins for figs were not as powerful as jalap but we all partook of the selection even if our bowels might be eased!
As we were finishing so Uncle Dodd and Lancelot appeared. Both looked weary for each had ridden some miles on their visits to parishioners or patients. They soon cheered for while the rest of us sat and chatted and had a little more wine or cordial their dinners were served. I was sitting next to Jenny Goodhew and had realised that Liam was not present. She told me he had gone to Stamford to celebrate Easter with his brother, Niall, and the Roman Catholic family he was lodged with. She said with all the upheaval in the house and workshop it was a good opportunity for him. I could tell from her manner that Liam had become another son to her. I also saw she was constantly looking at Philip across the table and smiling.
We did not tarry long after that for the day had been long with the final part of our journey. However, plans had to be made for the morrow. I knew we had to keep away for there was much preparation to be made for the Village Dance on Monday. My father said there were plenty of sweet old nags such as Invictus and Spartacus in the stable for boys unused to riding. I did not dare interrupt and say that the pair he mentioned were the biggest and strongest of stallions and I knew of no one who could or would ride them willingly. The Goodhew boys and Timmy had grinned when my father said that for it was known that only Mr Jarvis and two or three of the senior grooms ever took charge of them especially when they were put to service a mare. I knew even my father was wary for they had never been properly tamed. But they were the sires of hunters which were renowned for their strength, staying power and ability to take a fence or hedge without flinching. It was decided George and Francis would take what was on offer and we would ride out to explore where the railway work had reached. Terence said he had to ride to Stamford but would care only for Caleb's company. I surmised the satchel contained documents for Mr Grindcobbe.
George did say as we filed upstairs to our beds that he was pleased that Robin and I would be together without him sleeping on the edge or in the middle. I got a playful nudge when he said that. "I must hope that young Francis does not snore." I forbore from mentioning washcloths or soft paper.
There can be no doubt that Robin and I took every advantage of our being alone that night. We had not yet reached a full consummation of our love-making with each other. It was with some trepidation I mentioned it that night but Robin said he did not think he was ready for such a step. We would be sixteen at the end of the month, perhaps when we were seventeen. He was quite content with our closeness and togetherness and I was more than happy with that. Our present love-making needed no preparation other than to make sure we were clean under that circlet of skin we both possessed. I was apprehensive, too, that the immediacy of our passion might take almost a second place to the concern of being clean elsewhere. I had to ask and Robin concurred it was a torment for him though we needed at some time to make that final decision. It could wait as our ardour took possession and no soft paper was required!
Eight mounts were required in the morning. Of course, Robin and I had our Blaze and Silver and Timmy was reunited with Tarquin who stamped and snorted when he appeared in the Hall stable. Bobby Brewer said he had ridden him each day and had whispered in his ear that his master would be home soon. Timmy held the great horse round its neck in greeting and it responded by soft whinnies and rubbing its head against his shoulder. George and Francis had geldings while John Harrison, Philip and James Goodhew had well-schooled ponies. None of them had tricky Grace and her companion! We decided to strike north along roads and lanes which would eventually lead to Grantham. We were not destined to ride that distance but soon found where the surveyors had marked out the straight path for the rails at Little Bytham and were ready cutting at Swayfield. We found a quiet inn and made short work of the fine rabbit stew the goodwife had simmering on a trivet by the fire. She said that the preparation of the railroad had brought more custom but that many of the men employed on the cutting of the route were very rough. Her husband kept a shotgun ready by the bed for they were afeared of night time burglary for a cask of good ale had been stolen from the inn a bare mile away.
On our journey back we took the road through Castle Bytham and saw a signpost to Witham. I remembered my father had expressed an interest in a farm there which had a strange history of the Knights Templar with underground tunnels. I mentioned this and Francis Clifford pricked up his ears. He pointed to the signpost.
"There is another Witham I have heard of which is also a Templar place. My mother's family have land there and it is in Essex. It is also near a village with the same strange history you have described. I think it is called Cressing. There are buildings which she says go back in history though I have not seen them." He shook his head. "I know little about it though she says there are stories of secret tunnels as well."
I then remembered my father said he was no longer interested in the land but I thought we could make another excursion in this direction and explore what might be there. I would have to consult my father first. We were tired but happy as we rode into the courtyard at Careby Hall. All complained they were saddle-sore, none more so than the youngsters though both I and Robin also had aching bums! We dare not complain and said that we would ride out to follow the Easter Monday Hunt which would be setting off from the Squire's mansion. Each of us was more than pleased when we had our soreness eased with my store of gentle wintergreen. George said I was more adept than the old quack they had for he was sure he would have advised the use of the strongest horse liniment!
We heard at dinner that evening it was expected that a good fifty or more riders would be mounted with at least sixteen couples of hounds. Riders from as far north as Harlaxton and Ropsley nearer Grantham were expected for the work on the railway had disrupted plans for any Hunts across the land there. A number had already reserved beds at the Varley Arms and my father said they would be attending the Village Dance as well. "Too many men and a lack of ladies," was my mother's comment.
Sunday was Easter Day and we all trooped to Church where Francis and George were much amused to see Robin and me in the gallery with the other members of the village band. I was so pleased because Timmy also joined us with the flute that Miss Barnes had given him. The service was shorter than usual though we did have that fine hymn 'Ride on, ride on in majesty' but no sermon for we had to process to the Blessing of the new almshouses. I would say the whole village was in attendance with the Methodists and Baptists also joining in. My Uncle Dodd had provided a form of words which did not offend the ears or minds of the Dissenters and both the Methodist and Baptist ministers said a short prayer as well. Robin nudged me and whispered he was glad the Baptist minister did not go on at length as he did when in his own pulpit. A painted board was revealed with the names of subscribers to the enterprise and I was pleased to see that both Robin and I were there to be looked on in the years to come. It was a most happy occasion and with the accommodation here and in the older almshouses more than a dozen old folk would have a good place to end their industrious lives. Of course, Isaac and Jacob Barker were there with their father and the other Methodists, including Mr and Mrs Bottom. Isaac wanted to know when Lord Ticklebucket and Sir Percy Coneyfoot, meaning me and Robin, were going to honour them with their presence and they should bring anyone else who wished to know which end of a red-hot piece of iron was best to hold. Robin whispered that Sir Percy knew exactly where to place his piece of iron and he was sure it would be well-quenched. I think Isaac, who tried to suppress a grin at that last statement, was a little perturbed at the same time over the rudeness of such a sentiment on the Sabbath day!
Lunch that day was another substantial stew, this time of beef flavoured with herbs followed by an Easter cake with honey and walnuts. What we did not eat of that confection at that meal we finished for our tea at four o'clock! It was during the quiet of the afternoon that Robin and I wrote our remembrances of the past week. We read each other's scripts and agreed they were clear, concise and covered all the events as correctly as we could recall.
There was a full table again for our Easter Day dinner that evening. We heard that there would be near two hundred in the Assembly Halls for the Village Dinner and then the Dance the next night. Poor Mrs Gray and Mrs Reynolds would be responsible for many of the tarts and puddings and Mr Flaxman from the Varley Arms would be starting the roasting of a fat steer early in the morning. This would be done on a spit over an open fire in the field next to the Assembly Halls. Other persons would prepare the cauldrons of potatoes, carrots and preserved beans which would be heated on stoves also prepared outside with supporting bricks. We all decided to say many prayers for good weather!
On Monday morning we seemed to be surrounded by organised chaos. Not only were there riders arriving looking lost and enquiring where Squire Matthews lived but there were carts and drays going to the Assembly Rooms with tables, benches, flagons and beakers. As on the day before eight mounts were ready for us when we boys went to the Hall stables. We were again told the Hunt would be more than well-attended. My father also warned us not to ride too hard and he had a severe word with Terence who was instructed to keep back with us for no more broken legs were desired. A Captain of Horse being told what to do by Daddy! Terence would hear of this if he started to tease me at any time! As it was the Hunt was most successful for two foxes ended up in the hounds' jaws. We saw neither kill for Terence decided as it was near eleven o'clock and as we were near an alehouse he would treat us to a little sustenance. The goodwife there had anticipated the Hunt's appearance so there was a good selection of tasty morsels and a tankard of fine ale with no need to bother about the world outside. Eventually many of the riders did descend on us just as we finished our repast. The Hunt was over and hungry and thirsty people needed a little intake of ale before arriving back at the Squire's where further meat pies, cheeses, ale and even stronger liquors would be provided before the ride back to their homes or, for a few, a stay overnight at the Varley Arms. I wondered if Sir Montgomery Wagstaffe and his friends would be accommodated at the Squire's amid all the dust and dead flies! Without mentioning that to the others I was glad it was decided not to venture to the Squire's mansion but to stable our mounts and walk into Careby to see what was being prepared for that evening.
Of course, boys are ever inquisitive and we joined other youngsters who were gaping at the slowly rotating steer and asking each other if they would prefer a slice off the rump or the shoulder, 'arse or top end' would be more accurate. Once we had viewed the roast our group went into the Assembly Rooms though other lads had been told to make themselves scarce. Again backsides were mentioned in the threat that 'd'you get a kick up the arse if you don't!'.
In the cavernous building there were a number of grooms and farm workers helping with the heavy lifting and placing of tables and benches under the command of Mr Clements. Once he spotted us standing idle he directed us to hang strings of streamers and small flags from the beams. "Young monkeys are good at climbing," I heard him assert to George who was laughing loudly as Francis Clifford showed he was quite fearless atop a rickety ladder with Robin and me holding the other ends of the strings as he tied things securely. Mr Clements had no fear of the nobility and the Honourable Francis took orders with equanimity! As a reward we were allowed to sample a newly-broached cask of ale and pronounced it most drinkable.
During the afternoon decisions had to be made on suitable apparel for the evening. As Robin and I would be in the village band we would wear our Sunday best of black jackets, a white stock about our necks, black britches and black stockings with well-shined shoes. George and Francis would be at the top table in their evening dress of white tie and tailed coats. I had hoped John Harrison and Philip might wear their coloured trousers and neat jackets but Philip had thought his friends in the village might think him risen above his station. In some ways I and Robin had to agree with him. Robin said he should make his own decision. John said he wished to sit with Philip so it would be best for him to match him in choice of dress. Again, Sunday best was agreed upon. Timmy had no problems. He was to help Mrs Bottom hand out the platters and would wear the grey livery he was used to.
The Hall party assembled and we were driven in two carriages the short distance into Careby and arrived just as the church clock struck seven. The main Assembly Hall was packed and all were standing as the Squire's coach had arrived just before ours. Robin and I joined the other members of the band at their table while my parents, Terence, George and Francis went to the top table where visiting gentry were already assembled and others were entering and were being shown to their seats. As soon as the Squire was in his place he nodded towards my father who welcomed all to the gathering and then Uncle Dodd said a Grace before the meal commenced.
I was glad we had joined the table with the village band for we heard all the gossip. It was known that Mrs Rogers was expecting again. It was rumoured a certain red-haired young man had come from Lincoln last October and spent a day or two helping his father complete the Returns to be sent to the Bishop which the old fool had forgotten to prepare. The young man could not be expected to spend all his time scribbling so had gone riding out and had been seen in the next village, or at least his horse had been seen tied to a convenient sapling while Mr Rogers at the same time was holding forth and supping strong beer in the nearest alehouse. Old man Rogers always slept of an afternoon and Mrs Rogers had only young Lem, sorry, Emmanuel, for company... No more need be said. That and other tales were fine accompaniments to our portions of succulent roast beef with somewhat over-cooked vegetables. This was not to forget the couple of slices of Mrs Gray's almond tart and thick cream custard which followed to my satisfaction. Mr Flaxman's ale flowed as freely as the stories and all were laughing and well-content.
Once the floor was cleared the dance began. We had music sheets for two new dances, the polka and the Lancers. I knew of both from being at the Ball at Aunt Fanny's but they were considered to be new and quite daring for here. A dancing-master from Stamford had been hired to demonstrate the steps, especially of the polka, and there was much merriment as people were cajoled into learning the positions and the rhythms. The favourites were the old country dances and I saw that both George and Francis joined in so several blushing young ladies had their first dance with a member of the nobility. Mr Barker had conquered any qualms over the propriety of being in a dance-hall and was most adept in keeping the rhythm with his spirited playing on his bass viol. He caught the rhythm of the polka exactly with the emphasis on that third quaver before the fourth and I noted Jacob Barker had captured Miss Nose-in-the Air Hine for more than one dance. Something to josh him about when we visited the forge. Perhaps he and his elder brother should wear their leather aprons and no drawers for the next occasion and see how many young ladies that might attract!
There was much talk from George and Francis at breakfast the next morning about how much they had enjoyed the dance. "There are some most comely wenches in this village," was one of George's comments. I think one or two of those might have a similar opinion of our George as I noted he had to adjust his clothing after one of the more energetic country-dances where he had bowed and stepped his partner through the arches formed by the other pairs as we went through the tune three times over. Francis said that he had only watched before and the dances in Suffolk seemed much more sedate than here. He was most amused at the shyness of many of the young men where the girls were much more eager and were almost begging for a partner. My mother's concern about there being too many men was not borne out for of the ten who were staying at the Varley Arms only six sat at the top table and had plenty of partners for the dances. The four who did not attend had all had falls in the Hunt and were bruised and bloodied. Dear Lancelot had earned his fees attending on them before coming into the dinner. He said each was quite content for he had left them clutching large beakers of hot rum posset to alleviate their mostly imaginary pains! I think both George and Francis warmed to the good-natured jollity of the evening helped by a good intake of the ale which was poured in abundance.
Thus a quieter day was mooted. Robin said a visit to the forge was necessary for he wanted one of Silver's shoes seen to before any longer rides were suggested. His straight face belied the true reason for the visit. I had seen him at one interval talking with Jacob Barker and there were glances towards George and Francis. I would say a repeat of a previous performance was being planned. I would guess Francis would be the sacrificial victim this time as he was smaller than George who would have to be constrained once the play-acting commenced. As predicted the pair had been prepared for our visit. Again, the forge was over-heated and full of steam as we entered. There was much crashing and clanging of hammers on red-hot iron and the quenching added to the cloud of steam. I watched George and Francis staring at the scene and Robin and I managed to have George between us when Francis was seized and held lengthways in the air above their heads. He must have had some coins in his pockets as there was a clink or two as he was held high. The sacrifice to Baal was heard again and Robin shouted out they had the wrong bullock. Poor George stepped back and kicked against a heap of iron rings and plough shackles which clanged as Francis was lowered and left standing as the pair advanced on either side of the anvil towards us. George was not their quarry! Jacob lifted Robin and Isaac lifted me. We screeched to add to the clangour. There were roars of laughter from the pair as well for neither Robin nor I had thought we might be the butts of their prank. We were set down and there was laughter also from George. He had realised this was a replay of what Branscombe had told him without our knowledge. He had not mentioned this for the telling had slipped his memory. He said he was both highly delighted in seeing the three of us treated so and disappointed that he had not been thought worthy of being a sacrifice. The next moment he was in the air held lengthways like Francis who was reduced to great cackles of glee. Two scions of the nobility had been subjected to the most insolent behaviour imaginable but when recovered were highly amused with the treatment we all had been given.
"I near wet myself, then!" Francis confessed.
"...And me with laughter!" George added.
George then commented on the strength they had shown and I said he had seen their older and bigger brother at the barracks in the farrier's yard and Careby lads were renowned for their brawn.
"And one or two for their brains," George said and added, "For which I am glad."
Robin had been carrying a cloth bag which he had dropped when he was lifted. He opened it and produced the substantial remains of one of Mrs Gray's renowned almond tarts, a little crushed now but perfect to be shared. Both George and Francis being country lads at heart had visited their local forges many times and knew how important the blacksmith and the farrier were. They both wanted to pump the bellows and did so while Robin hunted around and found the coins Francis had lost. Two shillings and three sixpences. As we left I saw Francis hand a shilling each to the lads.
As we rode away Robin said Mr Barker, their father, was the village constable with the pair now living in the constable's cottage. No doubt when they were of full age they would become constables themselves. I was naughty and recounted the tale of Lemuel and Mrs Rogers, the previous constable's errant wife, and gave the gossip I had heard the night before. George said there were stories like that told in Garthorpe. Francis then said of a fellow in a village on his father's estate who had sired seven children on his own wife but was reputed to have had another six over the years from his hiring himself to work in other places. He laughed and said this fellow was also said to be red-haired in his youth and all his tribe matched him.
We had not ridden far when dark clouds began to gather so we made our way back speedily to Careby Hall. "Just in time for luncheon," remarked George. The rain settled in for the afternoon so George and Robin resorted to backgammon while Francis and I read books and talked together. He said he was unsure what he might do after his time at Cambridge. I commented he had plenty of time to decide and he smiled and said he would like to travel. His father had been on various missions for the government, even to Australia and to the southern parts of the Americas, and he had heard many stories of the different wonders he had witnessed. His father had refused to let him travel to Canada for he said he had to finish his education in England and he was agreeable to that but was determined to be off and explore the world after! I found he was an only son though he had an older sister who was married to the son of a baronet in Norfolk. My new aunt was his mother's elder sister and he enjoyed being in London but was lonely as he had no close friends who lived near. My Uncle Billy and Lady Mary had taken a house off Eaton Square and having only just moved there he had not had opportunity to invite any of his schoolfellows and he was unsure if he wanted to. I gauged he more wit than most of his particular class at Harrow for he said again that many had no interest in their school work.
The others appeared in time for tea and had been both to the Rectory where Lancelot had concocted evil smells and bubbling liquids much to John Harrison's delight and then to see the building work being done at the Goodhew's house and workshop. "There will be three more rooms," Philip declared. "I told father the new room downstairs needed to be a foot and a half wider or it would lose symmetry. That can be done for the old wall has not yet been taken down. He did agree with my judgement." Chests were heaving at that pronouncement. We would raise the matter at dinner!
We listened enthralled at dinner for Steven agreed with Philip about the room. Philip then went on to describe his visit to the studio which a Mr Pugin, who was responsible for designs for the new Houses of Parliament, had used. One of his drawing masters had taken him and two of his classmates and had said not to be too amazed by the strange shapes and patterns in the drawings they would be shown. "We are to visit the insides of the new buildings to see the carvings and painting. There is much decoration and the drawings we saw were very intricate." I was very taken with his use of language and the poise he showed in his general bearing.
We heard that John Harrison was to be in the junior team at Westminster School for cricket during the Summer Term. My mother remarked that her grandsons Philemon and Peter would be joining the school in September, but in the preparatory classes. John said he had started there, too, at the age of seven but had spent much of his time catching beetles and putting them in other pupils' pockets. He said he had been bored for his mother had taught him to read before he had joined his class. "It is better now as I like calculating and my father said he would find me a place in the Bank of England if I had no wish to attend university."
"That would be convenient for we could borrow five pounds if we were short," said Robin referring to his brother's prank of asking the gate-keeper.
"You would only be allowed it if you were of good standing," the cheeky lad replied and all laughed at that sally. Robin shook a fist at him but laughed as well.
As we left the table I managed to ask my father if we might visit the Templar farm. He said he was in two minds whether to bid for it for the price had been reduced. He would value an opinion. I felt very proud when my father said that and then he added with a wink that Terence had already suggested he would ride that way and so would be accompanying us. I did say two opinions were better than one which amused my father more.
The weather had cleared in the morning. The youngsters still had rather sore backsides or didn't want further aches so Philip and James said they would take John to visit the main stables and to go to the village as well. Philip did whisper he hoped they would find Lancelot at home for they wanted John to see more of the strange creatures he had in bottles and jars. I wondered if he might show them how to dissect foals' balls. Thus it was just Robin, George, Francis and I who saddled up with Terence to sally forth to explore the Templar Farm.
I noted that Terence held back for a greater part of our journey out for he seemed to be judging how well George handled his mount especially when he told us to take a route across some scrubland where we could gallop quite freely. It was evident to me that George had a good seat and he did not need to overuse his whip to get the horse's obedience to his commands. I was riding beside Terence for most of the way and I saw him smile and nod as George negotiated ditches and small hedges cleanly having anticipated what his horse should do. By taking this route we skirted the village of Castle Bytham and rejoined the road signposted to South Witham further on.
The farm stood a little way out of the village past the church which looked as if it needed some repair. I had not known that Terence had questioned Uncle Dodd who, after my father's initial interest, had made further enquiries about the old Templars' holdings in this region. Terence said that some excavations had been made at Witham by a reverend gentleman just a few years previous and he had found evidence of bones and burning but Uncle Dodd knew no more. He did say to look for the bell tower which was said to date back even before the twelve hundreds and the Templar times. We tethered our steeds and found the church open so explored inside which was rather dark and forbidding. Robin had spied a strange carved animal's head on the porch and inside there were more strange carvings on the walls with a rather ornate stone sink which Terence said was where the sacred vessels would have been washed in Romish times. I think we were glad when we came out into the sunlight and Terence agreed we should have a little rest in the local inn. This was close by the church and Terence said that Uncle Dodd averred that most often the village inn was next to the church ready for those who thirsted after righteousness! I had heard that before from the same source but I was staring for the inn sign said it was called The Angel. Uncle Dodd had told us before that the Templar inn in Grantham was called The Angel and it was a common name for taverns associated with the order.
The inn, though rather small and cramped, was more welcoming than the church and we supped a reasonable ale and had a slice of a raised pork pie before we set off to look at the farm itself. Robin chatted to an old fellow who was sitting in the inglenook who said it was known there were tunnels from the mounds where the abbey, as he called it, used to be. There was a cellar in the house just along the road which his father had repaired for he had been a bricklayer but he had not seen it himself though it was reputed to lie in the direction of the mounds. He shook his head and said he did not think the owner would take kindly to people wanting to see it. For that tangle of information he was rewarded with another tankard of ale to join the one he was already holding.
We remounted and took the road the old man had indicated. We did not attempt to ask at the house because there were two fierce dogs behind the gate which had a stout chain and padlock on it, too. As we rode on it became clear the land was poor. We saw a small and sluggish river which partially drained the land through which it flowed. The land was too water-logged to be put to arable use and, as the old man had said, the only things that thrived on the land were sheep and there was a poor return on them now. Francis Clifford was most forthright and remarked he could see why the land was for sale and he was sure it would be unwise to pay good money for it. Robin had taken his steed across a stone slab placed over a stream and his horse's hooves were sinking in the mire the other side. Terence declared he would advise our father not to buy however good the price may seem to be.
We were rather disappointed in not finding evidence of the Templars other than the story of hidden tunnels and a few mounds where buildings could have been but we felt we would be justified and honest in giving our negative opinion on the land. We decided not to frequent The Angel tavern again but to ride on and visit one in Castle Bytham before riding home to Careby after. The inn we found was much more comfortable and we enjoyed slices of ham with bread and a pickle almost as good as those made by Mrs Gray. We rested a while and set off some time after two o'clock for those last few miles to Careby Hall.
We had rehearsed what we would tell my father at dinner and rode into the courtyard ready to dismount hoping to find a groom or two who would be instructed to take the horses to the Hall stable. George and Terence were leading the way and they both pulled up sharply. A most impressive coach was being unloaded.
George whistled and turned to Terence. "Oh, my God, my father's here!" he declared and then sighed.
To be continued:
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