Tom Browning's Schooldays

Tom Browning's Schooldays

By

Joel

Chapter TwentyNine

We knew we had to be back in good time for luncheon before setting out for the big parade. This would be at one o'clock and would be a simple repast as Rosamund had said a dinner this evening was planned for all the family. Branscombe smiled when I said he was now considered part of the family.

Decisions had to be made about our excursion. Branscombe confessed he had only been to London once before, so almost everywhere was new to him. I suggested we might just 'take the air' as it were and get whoever the driver was to take us hither and thither as long as he knew the way home!

I knew Jacobson would not be our driver as he was taking the Captain's coach for repair and leaving the boys to explore the British Museum. I thought we might go there but we would not have time to see that and ride around as well. Just before ten o'clock we made our way to the mews. There was the covered chaise all ready with Gregson to drive us and young Peters, back from the visit to his aunt, as his companion on the box.

Gregson smiled when I asked for his opinion for the route. "Leave it to me, sir, I take her Ladyship to many houses so I am well-acquainted with the streets and will make a good selection for you. If it is not too cold I could tell you about the places we pass through the small window."

Since driver, postilion and passengers were well-wrapped against the January weather we decided this would be a good idea. As it was, with a covered chaise, the small windows would get quite steamed with our breath. Outside, there was a haze and the usual stink of smoke and shit. After we had set off I told Cedric about the Duchess's request for a small cigar to counteract the smells. "She is not my idea of what a Duchess might be like," Branscombe said with a laugh. "Our Lady FitzWilliam is the grandest society lady I have met and I must say she is most affable. Her background is most humble but she does not have the airs of some other ladies I have met in my mother's company."

I did not enquire further about his views on equality but sensed he was a keen observer of the quirks and sensibilities of others.

We set off at a good pace and I observed we took streets which would lead us to Park Lane alongside Hyde Park. As before, I could see riders in the Park and there was a constant flow of horses and carriages along the Lane. Branscombe said he was not an experienced horseman but he would value some instruction and practice. I said Robin would have his Silver with him and there were always a spare mount or two in the stable at Ashbourne. His roommate Maitland had a good seat and we could remedy any shortcomings in his skills between us. He laughed and said I had all the makings of a stern schoolmaster. I shook my head. My desire was to be a physician and I would work towards that goal. He joshed me and said if he ever commanded a vessel I could be the ship's surgeon as long as I didn't drink all the rum. We laughed together remembering that flask of fiery liquor which he had produced and I had coughed and spluttered.

Once in Park Lane we bowled along at a reasonable pace and soon reached Oxford Street with it's rows of shops, inns and houses. Branscombe asked if we could stop when he saw a shop with a display of ladies' haberdashery, scarves and fripperies. I asked if he wanted a new chemise for his football playing and got a glare and a decided dig in the arm muscle this time. "I have three sisters to keep happy and I think a small gift from London will delight them. Lizzie and Bella were complaining they had no time to scour the shops but I have ten minutes rather than the ten hours they would need to find any objects they might desire."

He was out of the door and along the pavement in a trice. I got out, too, to stretch my legs. It gave me the occasion to ask Peters about his visiting. He said he was so pleased and grateful for that opportunity. He had such a good time especially with his two male cousins who were a little older than him. He had been taken to a Music Hall which had surprised him with the different entertainments put up on the stage. Singing, dancing, play-acting and comical turns, but he would have to be careful what he said when he got home as his mother might not approve of such places. He said both his cousins had good places as junior clerks in counting-houses but he wouldn't want to live in London. His reasons were the same as others had said. It was dirty, smelly and was not the countryside, with it's clean air and wide open spaces.

True to timing Branscombe was back within ten minutes bearing seven small parcels Seven? He said he had a lace handkerchief or a silken scarf in each. Three sisters, his mother, my mother, my cousin Rosamund and, surprise, surprise, one for Miss Letitia de Vere! She would be at the At Home tomorrow!!

"I found her most delightful," he said quite openly, "I don't think she has many friends. Her mother is an invalid and she has to be with her much of the time. Her father is kind as he takes her to as many functions as possible. As he is a busy man I think she will be with a chaperone tomorrow."

I asked no questions but I sensed dear Cedric was a little smitten, just like the young men at Careby with Mary Ann Clements.

We continued our outing and turned left to Cavendish Square then on up Portland Place to the Crescent below Regent's Park. As there were few carriages about, Gregson drove around the Park and commented there was an enclosure called a Zoological Garden with wild beasts like lions and tigers in it. I wanted to stop but again there would not be time. We drove on and made a complete circle along roads which took us back to Oxford Street again. Even though it was nearing midday there was no sun and a horrid yellowish fog was all around. Poor Peters started to cough so when I saw an apothecary's shop I told Gregson to stop and went in and asked for a good remedy. I said my cousin, who was a physician, recommended ipecacuanha as a constituent for any draught to relieve a cough. I think the apothecary was rather amused at my precociousness but he agreed and said he made a mixture containing that substance with squills added, which he could advocate as providing a good measure of relief. As I said I hoped to study to be a physician, like my cousin, he gave me a paper with the receipt which he had followed in preparing the concoction. I paid for a six-fluid-ounce bottle which he noted should be taken as one teaspoon every two hours for general relief. As we didn't have a teaspoon in the coach Peters had to take a small swig straight from the bottle and that did stop the hacking. I think Branscombe was rather impressed with my knowledge as he had accompanied me into the shop to see I wasn't murdered and taken by the resurrection men to be cut up in Surgeons' Hall so he said! I laughed and said that sounded a bit more than circumcision. "That first!" he riposted.

It was noticeable, as the morning went on, that the number of conveyances increased greatly with many cabs plying for trade. We were going along gently when one uncouth fellow drove his battered hackney straight across our horses causing Gregson to pull them up suddenly. Gregson said nothing but the fellow let off a stream of oaths as another cab-driver beat him to the kerb, where a would-be passenger was waving his walking-stick to attract attention. Branscombe was jolted and two of his packages fell to the floor. He was more than annoyed. As we drew alongside the offender he drew the window down and let fly his own torrent of oaths. I heard among other things that the oaf was a 'fucking half-wit' whose 'brains were in his ballocks', that his mother owned 'a pushing school' where his sister got 'tuppence as socket money', and no doubt that was where the cabbie's 'prick had caught a burner'. Hearing such a tirade from a seemingly respectable young man the driver of the offending vehicle whipped up his horse and took off at such a rate he managed to almost lock wheels with a couple of quite innocent cabs. Gregson must have heard the rumpus and, wisely, drove on even more carefully. Branscombe was quite red-faced after that.

"That shit-filled loon! He might have turned us over," he said still rather heated. There was a moment or two of silence between us as I was a little bemused about some of the phrases he had used. "Tom, I must apologise. My temper gets the better of me at times."

I was more than amused. I had heard our grooms and labourers swear when things went awry and they were not aware the Master's young son was tucked behind a tree or haystack. I knew a fair number of words I should not use in polite company but Branscombe's outburst had taught me a few more. I knew 'whoreson' and 'arse' but had not heard 'arse-worm' before, but thought of Lancelot's cure of young Eamonn's itchy hole. The meanings of most of the phrases he had used passed me by though I could guess at some. I hoped I could ask him more. At the moment it was not possible as another commotion was beginning. Gregson reined the horses to a halt as two uniformed Peelers grabbed a young unkempt fellow. A lady had started screaming and her gentleman companion was hopping on one foot and shouting. Gregson turned on the box and informed us that the thief had grabbed the lady's reticule and had kicked the man in the shins to distract him but the fellow must have been watched by the constables. "Too many of these cut-purses around," he said, "That's why it's not safe for ladies or gentlemen to carry things which can be easily grabbed." I heard Peters shout from his position on the step at the rear, "There's another!" Looking out we saw another youngster, no older than me, dash from a shop doorway pursued by three shop-lads one of whom was waving a broom. We didn't see if he was caught as Gregson sensibly drove on.

We were certainly seeing London at it's best and worst! I think we were both now looking out to see if there were more miscreants! But there were no more excitements as we turned into North Audley Street and made a circuit of Grosvenor Square marvelling at the size and opulence of the houses. Branscombe puffed his cheeks. "One can only wonder who owns all these and what station in society they hold. My father says he could never afford a place here although he spends enough making our house even bigger. He's going to have to spend more when I tell him about your father's plans for a jakes in every bedroom."

"I should see some work has been done while we have been away," I said, "Steven Goodhew said he would have the grounds surveyed for the piping and trenches dug if the ground has not been too frozen."

"Steven Goodhew?" he asked, "Is that..." He paused.

"It is the man who has truly been a good father to Robin," I said. "He is the most upright and kind person one could wish to meet. He is a master stonemason and I have spent many hours watching as he dresses and carves stone with complete artistry. He is a craftsman much in demand for the good work he does."

"And didn't Robin wish to follow in that trade?"

All things were now being made clear with what had been said and done over the past few weeks. "I think there has always been plans for Robin and his future," I said, "He and I have been almost raised together. We have been tutored side by side by my uncle the rector. He has never treated us differently from each other. Robin has a keen interest in mathematics and I am better somewhat at Latin and Greek. But he is no slouch at any sort of study."

Branscombe was nodding. "What I have seen and heard of him I think he will make an admirable companion for Maitland and me." He laughed. "Even before that pretense you and he played Maitland had said how alike you two were and he was always full of praise for that young groom who cared so well for Perseus."

I thought of Maitland. He was also a true countryman like me and Robin. I thought they would get on well together.

We were almost back to Charles Street and I had much to ask Branscombe but as soon as we arrived and had stepped out another coach drew up. There were cries of "Uncle Tom! Uncle Tom!" as two small boys were out of the door as the coachman opened it. Paul and Philemon were in full voice.

Young Philemon stood in front of me. "We're going to see all the horses. Mama says we have to behave like gentlemen, though. Father said that might be difficult and I did not know what he meant."

"It means you have to stand up straight and not chatter too much," I said.

Paul looked up at me. "You sound like Mama."

Branscombe was laughing. "Am I to be introduced?"

They both solemnly shook hands with him as I introduced them. My sister hadn't emerged from the coach and sat there smiling and shaking her head.

"A hand, please, Tom. I slipped on ice yesterday and have a sore ankle."

Both Branscombe and I stepped forward and assisted her down.

I leant forward and kissed her cheek. My, I was now as tall as she was. "Not too much damage?" I asked as she carefully walked to the open front door by my side. "I have some good liniment in my apothecary's box."

"Good liniment? Made for father's horses no doubt. No thanks!" As she reached the bottom step she turned to Branscombe. "I am sorry I haven't greeted you, Cedric, but I was more concerned with my injury and my dear brother's no doubt well-meant offer."

Cedric bowed his head. "Ma'am I am most delighted to make your acquaintance again. I can assure you that the liniment is good as he has applied it to several of our fellows who have suffered hurts at football."

Hatty sniffed. "Football indeed! I went head over heels and twisted my ankle on ice. I have seen football with those boys in the choir. I suppose it is good for boys."

"Can we play?" Paul asked.

Hatty wagged a finger at him. "When you two are bigger."

He looked rather downcast. "Mama, you always say that. When we are bigger."

"When will that be?" Philemon asked.

Branscombe leapt to their defence. "You'll be big enough, soon, I warrant. There is nothing like a good game of football to make good friends of your fellows." I think the twins were good friends with Branscombe now!

Before our chaise clattered off to the stables I thanked Gregson for the excursion and gave Peters the bottle of mixture for his cough. He thanked me, too, and I said he was to be careful to keep to the instructions.

As usual there was a row of footmen ready to assist as we ascended the six steps to the front door. Mr Pemberton stepped forward and took Hatty's cloak and passed the boys' coats and hats on to Mr Partridge. My aunt's maid was also waiting and guided Hatty and the boys off to meet Aunt Fanny. Our cloaks were also removed and handed on. Mr Purrett said we would find a hot posset in the breakfast room and that luncheon would be served promptly at one o'clock while carriages would be ready at ten minutes to two. I knew I could eat fast.

Paolo had some steaming tasty brew which he said was made of herbs from Italy. It certainly warmed us before we went up to my bedroom. Cedric was ready for the jakes he said and beat me to the door. I was almost hopping up and down with a full bladder before he had finished and let me enter as he emerged. I left the closet door open and pissed as loudly as I could and heard him laugh. "Our little stallion, eh?"

He kept getting the better of me with digs and gibes. I enjoyed them, though, as he treated me quite as an equal and not as a younger boy. He must soon be seventeen, I thought, if he had that ring in his cods when he was sixteen. Could I ask to see it? No. It must be quite a secret as George hadn't ribbed him about it and he would have done if he had known. I thought that I had been told as Robin would no doubt see it when in the confines of their room. But what of others? Branscombe played football and got as muddy as others like George. Did he bath alone? Perhaps the ring was small and not too visible. I did not know and I wished to know!

"Tell me about that ring. Is it very big?" My question was blurted out.

He curled his lip at me and laughed. "You have waited long enough, young Tom, to ask that. Watch!"

His trousers were swiftly unbuttoned. The leg of his underdrawers was raised and a large, low-hanging ballsack was revealed. There was the ring. About the size of a ha'penny piece and shining silver. I could see it was not quite closed, but the tiny gap would not have allowed the skin to have passed freely through it so how had it been fitted?

He was one step ahead of my questioning. "It was more open than this when Jake pierced me and slid the ring through," he said pointing to the gap, "But pincers were used to make the ends touch once I was used to it being there. See, it moves easily." He rotated the ring and it slipped through his skin readily.

"Did it bleed?" I asked, now wanting both to know how the piercing was done and to turn the ring myself but daring not to ask such things.

"A little, but Jake chose a place with no visible vessel. He said I was lucky as I had good loose skin, too. He told of others whose sacks were close up and more difficult." He smiled and must have gauged my desires. "Jake heated a cobbler's brad-awl in a candle flame and then when it cooled somewhat Reuben held me tight while Jake made the small hole. The ring was on in a trice and I just felt a little pain." He held the ring steady. "Here, you may touch it. I beg you not to pull on it but move it gently. Maitland with his great hands is very gentle and I might persuade him to visit and let Jake pierce him, too." He laughed. "Travis would do well to have one the size that I have seen through the nose of a bull. It would suit him as there is no fellow with bigger cods than him that I have seen."

Very tentatively I reached and held my finger and thumb the distance apart and with great care held and turned the ring. It did not snag but passed quite freely. I let go and smiled at him.

"Thank you," I said, "You have satisfied my curiosity but I think you could have had one as you said for Maitland. It would be like our neighbour's prize bull has in his snout as well." I made a ring then with my finger and thumb well apart. "And perhaps hang a church bell from that!"

He snorted. "I show you and you make mock!" He was laughing, though, and buttoned himself after that fine demonstration.

"I am not mocking but I ask you not to persuade Robin he should have the same. Knowing him he would outdo those Arabs and want a round dozen and all the bells as well."

"At least we would not lose him on a dark night," he said, "We would hear him in the distance."

"And then keep us all awake when he turns over in bed," I added.

"And you?" he asked, "You have no desire to have one fitted?"

I shook my head. "I expect I might be required to lance or put broken bones together but I have no desire to allow myself to be cut or pierced."

He nodded. "Yes, I suppose if that is to be your profession you will need to have such skills. But, Tom, I would ask you not to tell all and sundry what I have shown you."

"You have told me because of Robin?"

"Yes, that is so. At present only Travis and you know of my adornment and I wish it to be between us unless some occasion befalls where I am undone as it were!"

We turned to less interesting matters. He looked through the piles of books I had acquired on this visit. "I suppose I must read those your uncle has kindly given me. The one on ships will be my first and at least my father will see me with my nose in a book for once."

Time soon passed as we chatted on. I found he had been pierced during the time his parents were away visiting relatives. He laughed when he said that he walked almost bow- legged for a few days and had to make sure he kept a bandage round his ballocks to stop being rubbed by his undergarment. Luckily all had healed by the time his parents returned and they were not told. I thought him both brave but also foolhardy as he might have caused pus and rot to occur as Lancelot said that was often a result of a cut or injury. I did not tell him this!

He then questioned me about my knowledge of the mixture I had bought in the apothecary's. I said the main ingredient to ease the cough would be the ipecacuanha, but the squills would help to loosen any phlegm or tightness. I then had to explain that both were extracted from plants. The first from a plant of the Americas as far as I knew and squills was prepared from something like a small onion which I had seen dried and kept in a jar in my cousin's cellar room.

"I see if I need a cure I should consult you," he said.

I shook my head. "Only for simple things. I have only the knowledge from the instruction of my cousin."

"But you would seem to know as much as that old quack my father has when he coughs and splutters. All he suggests is to let blood which my father refuses as that was the death of my grandfather so he says. Father says they could not stop the bleeding and the old man collapsed and died soon after."

I said my cousin did use leeches but at least they only removed a small measure of blood. I told him of the boy with the injured hand and how Lancelot used hot salt water to cleanse the wound and that the cleansing power of salt water was something he had learned sailors swore by.

Branscombe smiled. "I will have to ask Jake if he has heard of that but I would not have liked to dip my ballocks in a pot of hot salt water."

After laughing at that we were ready and waiting when the luncheon gong was sounded. We were polite and waited until my aunt followed by my mother and sister with the boys had entered the small dining-room. My uncle was wheeled in, then my father appeared full of good spirits. He praised the way he had been massaged by Mehmet saying it was an art I could learn to keep him spry into his old age. Uncle Digby said he should employ a good valet who could ease his aches and pains rather than burden me with yet another task.

"That boy has yet to earn his keep," my father said, "That school, his clothes, his food and drink will keep me poor for years to come and that doesn't include lazing his way through more years of idleness at Cambridge, no doubt."

I kept my mouth shut and I felt Branscombe stiffen behind me. Paul and Philemon had stopped their chatter, too.

"Sam, you are an old rogue," my uncle said with a laugh, "Give Tom his due. He has solved a problem for me. He will be an asset to this household again by his playing tomorrow. You're an old rogue and a crosspatch!"

My father snorted. "I cannot say the boy is a genius, can I, Digby?" He thrust out a hand as he advanced to where I and Branscombe were standing. He gripped Branscombe's left arm and grabbed at his right hand. "Here, my boy, do not let my harsh words dispirit you! Shake my hand!"

Father was acting the fool! Poor Branscombe did not know how to answer straightaway.

I stepped to his side. "Father, that lens you use is not enough for your poor eyesight. I have not grown five inches overnight," I said, "To help your privation I may spend money on good spectacles for you so you do not mistake a lamppost or another for me."

He clapped Branscombe on the shoulder. "Listen to that little rogue," he said, "He cozens me out of fifty guineas and now he answers me back." He laughed. "But I miss him when he is away."

Branscombe had collected himself. "Sir, I have also noted his ready tongue," he said, "But I would say there is no harm in that. I have enjoyed his company just these few days and I know he has already put some of his money to good use." He laughed. "I think I will get used to him as a brother-in-law."

Father laughed, too. "Good! I have to say these things to make sure his hat still fits." He turned to the silent twins. "And I have stopped your chatter, eh?"

"Grandpapa," Paul said with a very solemn face, "We thought you were chiding Uncle Tom. Are you being unkind to him?"

My father bent down to their level. "No, I wasn't. I was pulling his leg," he explained, "I was teasing him. He knows me better I think."

"That's funny," Philemon butted in, "Daddy says things and teases us and he says the same. He says he is just pulling our legs. It's difficult to understand because he doesn't really pull them."

My sister Hatty laughed. "I have to keep explaining all sorts of things they hear or read."

I knew exactly what she meant. I had phrases to ask Branscombe about like 'dance the Newgate hornpipe' or 'drunk as a brewer's fart' which he had used when castigating that cab-driver. At least I could guess at the first and the second wasn't difficult. Some of the others he used I needed help on!

Still, we had to eat. We were quite a happy gathering as we arranged ourselves around the table. The footmen served us first from platters of cut hot meats and there was a dish of sliced potatoes cooked in cream and butter as well. I sat with Paul and Philemon on either side of me and Branscombe was next to Paul. I think they felt very grown-up being in older company. There was little chatter but Paul was most excited about seeing his uncles and all the mounted soldiers.

"I think I would like to be a soldier," he said, "I could have a horse then."

"What about being a sailor?" Branscombe asked him, "You might have a ship then."

"No, I wouldn't like that. I think you have to get wet and I don't like being put in the bath. Especially with him!" he pointed at his brother, "He splashes me and when I can't see he pulls my..." He stopped and went bright red. No one said anything though I nearly guffawed and I saw my father sitting opposite take a deep breath. I thought that small boys in baths and larger boys in the river are just the same!

There was a moment's silence and my mother, bless her heart, changed the subject. "Digby," she said addressing her brother-in-law from almost the other end of the table, "Do you still correspond with Captain Frampton? I wondered recently if he still...." The embarrassment was over. As I forked in another mouthful I looked sideways at Branscombe. He was trying not to laugh as well. Something to discuss later!

There was just time for us all to find room for a delicious fruit-filled pie and a helping of something my aunt called a trifle. Sweet slices of sponge cake in a fruit jelly covered with a thick layer of custard made from beaten eggs, milk and sugar. It was superb.

We then had to hurry as time was passing. Arrayed in our cloaks, hats and gloves we went down the steps to the roadway where three conveyances were waiting. Not only that but two troopers in full uniform with red cloaks and plumed helmets were on fine horses and were ready to lead us. As a special treat we four boys, my sister and mother were ushered into Uncle Digby's best coach with four of the greys harnessed. Our own coach came next and my mother and father with my aunt and Rosamund entered that. The covered chaise was for the ladies' maids; the two Italians and one French. I saw that Rowley was driving our coach with my missing valet, Jabez, as his companion on the box. A smiling Natty was next to Peters who was driving the chaise. We had a full complement of Mr Churcher with the reins and Jacobson next to him with Gregson and William on the steps behind. With a crack of Mr Churcher's whip we were off.

The twins couldn't keep their eyes off the two mounted soldiers. I whispered we would be seeing many more and they should look and wave to the people as we passed. There were few around as we processed from Charles Street into Berkeley Street. Of course there were many more as we turned into Piccadilly and then, horror upon horrors, we turned to go down St James's Street to reach Pall Mall and then the Mall. I shut my eyes as we passed the house where Black Jack was incarcerated. Branscombe did not know of this so was pointing out other things to the twins. I felt better as we turned into the tree-lined road at one end of which was Buckingham House and at the other the Horse Guards Parade where we were headed.

What a sight as we approached. Two detachments of mounted troopers rode out and escorted us onto the parade ground where there was a raised closed stand with seats for viewing the proceedings. As we drew up there were shouted orders from mounted officers with drawn swords held upright in front of them. We could hear a band of fifes and drums in the distance which grew louder as the carriage doors were opened and we descended. Two unmounted troopers led us to the seats. I recognised one. It was a sergeant in flowing cloak carrying a silver-headed cane. I could hardly greet him but I would be able to tell his brothers when I returned to Careby. It was Amos Barker the brother of my friends Isaac and Jacob at the forge. I wondered if I might also see Abel the other brother.

Sergeant Amos Barker bowed his head when he saw my father and mother and I heard my father say a quiet word of greeting to the young man who had once been his apprentice clerk. I got a smile as he ushered me to my seat but all was done in silence except for the roars of the officers directing their troopers, the clatter of the horses' hooves on the sand-strewn ground and the band merrily playing away.

A very fine figure rode up to the stand on a huge and quite magnificent black stallion. It was Uncle Billy. He must have had his full uniform on but it was covered by the large flowing cloak which all the men on parade were wearing as there was a bitter wind. It was a good thing there were braziers to keep us warm in the stand. He raised his drawn sword in greeting and the twins were even more excited. Paul couldn't help it. He called out 'Uncle Billy, it's me!" and waved frantically. Beside Uncle Billy was his aide, my brother Torquil, who could hardly keep the smile off his face. It was Philemon's turn. "Uncle Torquil, I'm here!" A wave from him, too. Luckily there were more shouted orders from the officers and Uncle Billy turned his mount as the first detachment rode up to prepare for the inspection. Before any more orders were given a very splendid coach, with what could only be a Royal coat of arms on the doors was driven up, and stopped beside Uncle Billy who turned and saluted with his drawn sword. Whoever was in the coach must out-rank him, I thought and wondered who it could be.

There was no time for questions as gradually more rows and rows of mounted troopers assembled and then the parade began. Each detachment wove in and out as they went through intricate manoeuvres all executed precisely and, to us observers, without fault. At one point a dozen troopers passed us with four bearded riders leading them, each with a large hammer held and resting on their left shoulder. They were wearing thick leather coats and aprons and I knew they were the regimental farriers. One was Abel Barker but, as I had never seen him with a beard, I didn't recognise him. I then knew which one he was as a leading farrier close on our side reached the middle of our stand and moved his hammer from his shoulder until it was upright like the officers with their swords. I would have plenty to tell the brothers especially about the thick black beard their twenty-one year old brother now flaunted!

As each file of troopers passed my uncle and the coach the officers raised their swords and the troopers smartly turned their heads on the order 'Eyes right!'. It was all in all a magnificent display as it wasn't only Uncle Billy's regiment on parade but also another cavalry regiment wearing blue cloaks

It seemed all too soon the parade was ending. The ornate coach was driven off and Uncle Billy turned to us and saluted us all again. We must have been watching the cavalcade for almost an hour but the time had flashed by. By half-past three the usual yellowish London fog was descending and it was darkening. Our own carriages re-appeared. We re- entered them and were driven round the edge of St James's Park through Storey's Gate to the barracks. On alighting we were escorted to the Officers' Mess to be feted with hot cordials and an array of pastries and cakes. My brother Terence soon entered with a whole covey of officers now without their heavy coats and all 'hung like lampshades'. There was a sudden hush as two very stately figures appeared with their staffs and trumpeters played a fanfare from somewhere above. One was Uncle Billy in a very elaborate uniform accompanied by Torquil as his aide. Something new about Uncle's rig was a red water-silk sash from right shoulder to left hip, and a silver star on his breast. The other officer who preceded him was even more senior in an even more decorated uniform and coloured sash. A voice rang out "Pray silence for His Royal Highness Field-Marshal the Duke of Cambridge." We all stared. Then the voice shouted "Pray silence for Her Majesty's faithful servant Major-General Sir William Browning."

I think all our party froze. A Royal Duke! And then this announcement. My Uncle Billy had received a knighthood!

Both came over to us. All the ladies curtsied as the Duke approached with his equerry beside him and all us men and boys bowed our heads. He was smiling and greeted us most affably and clasped my father's hand after acknowledging the ladies and the rest.

"Mein goot fellow! No doubt you are surprised," he said with a marked foreign accent and beckoned to my uncle. "Your brother vas vith Her Majesty ziz morning and I vas pleased she used mein sword to dub our new Knight of the Bath. The parade this afternoon vas in his honour and you did not know!"

"Your Highness," my father said, "I am both surprised and astonished but then he is my brother for whom no honour would be too great."

The Duke laughed. "I told Her Majesty so, too."

He turned to my mother and aunt. They were introduced by Uncle Billy who stepped forward beside the Duke. He went down the line as all curtsied or bowed again. I and Branscombe received glances under lowered brows then he looked down and smiled at the twins.

This was a signal to young Paul. He looked up at what could be a rather stern figure. "Please sir, I would like to be a soldier when I am grown." The Duke cocked his head as perhaps he was a little deaf. "Do you live in the Queen's Palace?" the little lad asked, "That is a big house."

The Field Marshal, the victor and loser of great battles, was, perhaps, not used to small boys' questions so openly asked but he was a real gentleman. "I vish you to be a soldier, my friend," - he pronounced it like 'freund' which I found out later was the German word - "and I do not live at the Palace. Mein house is in Piccadilly. It is not as big as the Palace." He smiled again and his bushy eyebrows twitched. Young Paul bowed his head again. Philemon, for once, was silent.

He moved away and spoke to his equerry as he made his way towards the assembled officers who were also to be greeted by him. Uncle Billy was left with us and his face was wreathed in a great smile. Father stepped forward and clapped him on the back. "Well, little brother, you have outdone me as I knew you always would. The great pity is our father could not have lived to share this triumph but you have most decidedly deserved it."

My mother and aunt both kissed him and he kissed his niece Rosamund. There was general laughter when Philemon wanted a kiss, too. Torquil lifted him and my other brother, Terence, who had left his fellow officers, hoisted young Paul. This left Branscombe and me. We were both shaken by the hand and both murmured our congratulations. I thought this was something more for Branscombe to convey to his mother. A meeting with a Royal Duke and a newly knighted Major-General. But then, his mother had danced with Uncle Billy!

There was an air of general excitement as our party returned to Charles Street. Somehow the news had spread, I assumed from Jabez, Gregson and the others, and there was a row of smiling footmen to greet us. Of course, Uncle Billy was still at the barracks as there was to be a celebratory dinner there so Torquil and Terence were absent, too. No matter, dinner that evening was superb. As usual Signor Bartoli had conjured up the most delicious dishes which followed one after the other until the table was laden. There was champagne to start and wine followed wine. The old Naval captain came along and was disappointed Uncle Billy wasn't there but was persuaded to stay nonetheless. He and Branscombe were soon deep in conversation. My brother-in-law appeared, too, and the boys vied with each other to inform their father about everything seen and heard including that the 'Dook' from Paul and the 'Duck' from Philemon, lived in a house not as big as the Palace and Uncle Billy had been given a bath by the Queen. My sister would have a task to enlighten them on that last matter! Later two very tired boys were taken off, young bellies full, and slept on the couch in the parlour while the grown-ups, who included Branscombe and me, carried on with chat and the ladies did not retire but sat on.

Before dinner when I was in my bedroom Jabez was in a rather quiet state to begin with though he was full of praise for my Uncle Billy's knighthood. I tried to question him but he would not be drawn but promised to tell me more before I left London for Careby on Friday. "I have been on an errand," was all he would say. As he hadn't said it was anything to do with Black Jack I assumed it was something else. Like us he was full of admiration for the great parade and the honour bestowed on my Uncle. His face relaxed somewhat when I told him about my seeming spat with my father and the way he had alarmed Branscombe. "He has a merry wit," Jabez said, "Mehmet tells me he was laughing all the time he was being massaged. He certainly enjoyed that and said it had eased all sorts of aches. Mehmet was rewarded handsomely. A whole half-guinea. Your father is so generous." He laughed. "It must run in the family. Perhaps you country bumpkins don't know the true value of money."

"Remind me not to part with any of my hard-earned coins to unworthy vassals in the future," I said with as much of a sneer as I could muster. As usual I couldn't maintain it but I did manage to say, "Perhaps he will receive due recompense for the massage I shall receive in the morning. I think Master Branscombe will be generous as well as he is as much a bumpkin as I am."

Jabez dropped to his knees and held out his hands imploringly. "Please, my Master, be kind to your poor slave." He wrinkled his nose. "It's no good begging as your britches have the longest pockets and probably holes at the end." His nose twitched. "And we know what they are for!" The naughty boy then made very rude movements of his right hand and fist.

"And where did I learn that?" I asked being more than amused as I had seen that last play-acting before and had practised those movements myself many times.

"Your humble servant, no doubt," the imp replied.

We had a good laugh as he raised himself and dusted his knees.

I said I would miss him once I returned to Careby and then to Ashbourne but I hoped he would not get involved in anything where he might be harmed.

He smiled. "I think your uncle has my best interests in mind whatever tasks I am set."

I was thinking of that when Jabez came with me to my bedroom after dinner but I had no chance to discuss such things. Branscombe had gone along the corridor with Karem and had said he was tired after such a busy and interesting day. I thought he was also a little bemused by wine as he had downed a full glass of champagne and at least four glasses of other wine with the courses at dinner. I had to admit I was just one glass behind him but I had only half glasses. Little prig, I thought.

Anyway, I was ready for my bed and again Jabez said he would not stay. I was too tired to demur and try to chat about his business with Uncle Digby so sleepily went to bed and slumbered soundly to be woken by a gentle zephyr blowing across my cheek.

"It's morning, my little Knight," a quiet voice whispered in my ear, "thy bath will be ready soon." I woke with a start. I had been dreaming of being with Robin but that went as my eyes opened.

My only response was a screwed up face and a growl. That was met with a laugh.

"I thought you would never wake." Jabez must have risen some time before as he was dressed already in a good shirt and his livery britches. "It is past seven thirty and your snores have kept the servants awake most of the night!"

I was fully awake now. I leapt out of bed and caught Jabez around his arms and chest and had him over the edge of the bed. He was laughing so much he was helpless. I let go one arm and thrust my hand down into the pocket of his britches. Luckily for me he was wearing a loose undergarment and his soft cock was lying to that side. I gripped it through the pocket lining.

"What's this you've secreted here?" I said. "I think you've stolen one of those little sausages the Signor serves. Those thin ones which are short and spicy."

In truth what I had hold of was akin to something I had heard described as salami, a thick, long sausage which was served in good generous slices. As usual this salami thickened and hardened but I let it go as dear Jabez would have added a cream sauce very quickly to the delicacy!

Whatever I had dreamed about had thickened and hardened my own youthful sausage and I hadn't released my seed the night before so I was ready. I did not have to wait for as I let go of the prize so Jabez with a mighty wriggle had me on my back displaying my own hardness.

"I thought so," he said, "Little boys have little toys so let us see what tune this scrawny flute might play."

He ran practised fingers up and down pulling back my skin and tickling that so sensitive end. My length was ringed and within a minute I was primed to fire a volley. My body stiffened and my clean nightshirt caught a shower which I knew was more than usual. Even dear Jabez was startled at the amount.

With a throaty giggle I got a great compliment. "My little Master is growing up fast. Even my good stallion Mehmet would strain to provide such a show."

I was pleased but could not show it openly. "Even more than you on your third offering of the night?" I asked.

"Perhaps on my fifth," the rogue replied.

He let me go and rushed off and returned with a washcloth. "We had better clean you as I think your school-fellow has plans to visit and time is passing."

He reached out and pulled the bell-rope. "To the jakes and the boys will be here with hot water."

My moment of triumph had passed. After any release I liked to savour those feelings which gradually waned but this was not to be so this morning. A very busy day ahead.

As usual the boys were ready with pitchers of hot water. I bathed and was clean and sweet-smelling and was almost dressed when a knock on the door announced that Branscombe was already up, dressed and ready to pass the time of day.

As soon as Jabez finished helping me on with my jacket he said he would have to be off downstairs as his duties this morning included being with Paolo in the breakfast room and we should not delay too long. I tarried and looked in the glass to see that my hair was tidied enough and listened to Cedric who was full of praise for the dinner the night before. He said he had slept well and felt most refreshed this morning. Even after partaking of all that wine, I thought and then decided we should move ourselves. He wanted to know if anything was planned for the morning as we left my room and descended the stairs. I said I had a mind to visit the optical shop so had to explain about the usefulness of such things as microscopes. I didn't say I could use the apparatus to peer at any of his outpourings to see if there were anchors embedded in the juice, but explained that it could make things invisible to the naked eye visible. I don't know if he was very keen but he agreed another ride out looking at things would be good. Yes, I thought, and if the occasion arose I could find out what a 'pushing school' was and what was 'socket money'.

To be continued:

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