Tom Browning's Schooldays

Tom Browning's Schooldays

By

Joel

Chapter Fifty Two

There was no doubt we were all as entranced as Freddy as the drawing was revealed and displayed for all to see. My mother peered at it and Uncle Dodd was laughing.

"Philip," my mother said, "You have surpassed yourself. That is as fine a likeness as one could ever expect."

Philip smiled. "I can only draw what I see and I remembered how proud Master Neville looked after being anointed." I noted he did not say 'blooded'. "If I may say so he has good features which made my task much easier."

Freddy stepped forward. "Please, may I call you Philip? That is the finest gift I have ever had. My father would be so delighted to see it I am sure." I think we all noted he never included his mother. He held out a hand which Philip took and the two smiling boys shook hands.

Branscombe was not to be left out. "That is a wonderful gift, Master Goodhew, I could only wish I was so accomplished."

Philip was not abashed. "You will be a naval captain I have heard. That would be a noble accomplishment I am sure."

We all laughed at this, none more than Branscombe. "Not a captain but first a humble midshipman to learn the ropes. I would hope to rise in those ranks to follow my father's and grandfather's examples but that will take time and much effort I am sure."

"Which you, no doubt, will succeed in," Uncle Dodd added.

We set to then to demolish the array of good pastries and tasty sandwiches and Philip and young Freddy were soon deep in conversation with Philip pointing out the plate with the boy and his copy of it. I surmised plans were also made for other excursions as I could see a blossoming friendship there though the pair were from most different social classes. Freddy accepted Philip as the boy he was and Philip was not in any way in awe of higher status.

I and Robin talked to Branscombe and we also made plans. I said that we should visit old Miss Barnes as we needed to thank her for the instruments. Branscombe did not seem too happy at visiting an old lady but I said there was something special for him to see in her house. I would not be drawn and Robin did not help by sniggering. Robin said that on the way there we should visit the forge as arrangements would have to be made for our mounts to be shod before returning to Ashbourne. I knew he really meant that Isaac and Jacob would be meeting Cedric Branscombe and goodness knows what comments would be made!

After all the good things were consumed I took Freddy back upstairs as I had promised to show him how to play the flute. Robin said he would take Cedric on a tour of the Hall and the walled garden as we had been told the walls were being heightened and two new greenhouses were being constructed. No wonder all the men in the village were in employment!

Freddy said as we went upstairs that he couldn't imagine a nicer boy than Philip and he wondered why he couldn't be at Ashbourne with Robin as well. It was difficult to explain that Robin's situation was rather different in that he was a member of my family whereas Philip was a stonemason's son, even though they had the same mother. In my opinion, Steven Goodhew and his talented sons were as worthy of consideration as any of the gentry. There would have to be more discussion of all this with Mr Ridley I was sure!

I showed Freddy how carefully he should handle the pieces of my old flute before putting them together and then demonstrated with my new flute how he should purse his lips and place them on the mouthpiece. Of course, he found it difficult at first to make the right shape of his lips against the hole and then, as usual, he blew much harder than needed. However, after about five or ten minutes of determined effort he managed to produce a good steady note. I made him practice the blowing several times with his fingers over all the keys then as he lifted his furthest finger he made his second note. We practised that until he was sure of his breathing and then another note was added. The look on his face at that accomplishment as he then went 'doh, re, mi, re, doh' was so pleasing. I said he should rest awhile and I would play a tune which he could copy.

Mr Venables had started my learning with the favourite tune 'Twinkle, twinkle, little star' so I played the first bars of that to Freddy. He watched as I began with all fingers covering then I hopped a fifth, 'C C G G A A G', he smiled as my fingers went up and down for the rest of the phrase 'F F E E D D C'.

"I know that tune," he said, "May I try it?" I showed him again which fingers to change and he copied me exactly without blowing. I said he should try the notes themselves and like magic he played the whole phrase and only squeaked on two of the notes. He played it through again and this time it was perfect.

He drew in a deep breath and his eyes were shining with pleasure. "I would not need my own fortepiano if I am able to play this."

I laughed and then confessed I intended to ask Mrs Dimbleby at School if she would allow him to play. His face fell. "That would be an imposition on her," he said quietly, "My mother would not allow it."

"But if your mother did not know?" I countered, "There is no reason to tell her. You won't be writing to say I have shown you how to play the flute and I am sure Mr Pretyman will allow me to hear your efforts. I suppose you did not tell your mother about having that cheroot?"

He did smile then. "I would have been banished to my bedroom for a whole week I am sure if she had known," he said and screwed his eyes up.

"Then you must exercise a little discretion on what you write in your next letter home." I held up a finger. "You must write home after we have been to visit your grandfather and before we leave for London."

He nodded. "I will take care over what I write. I must tell her about the drawing but I cannot say Philip will be a friend. He has said he will show me the village."

I smiled at him. "You must visit his home and see his father at work. Robin and I have watched him many times as he makes beautiful stonework." I had plans that he would also visit the forge and also receive greetings of some sort from the pair there.

He was eager to try the flute again. I found the book of simple tunes I had learned from first and he read back the notes of the stave and then tried the first scale in C major. He reached G quite expertly but I then had to demonstrate the last three notes. He learned fast and was soon making the scale both up and down. I stopped him there as I knew his lips would tire and he would then be discomforted that his new-found expertise was gone.

He was most curious about the constructions going on. In fact, I had not seen what was being done in the next room myself, so I lit a candle and found a copy of the closet in my room and floorboards removed for pipes to run under. There was much dust in the hole between the joists and two dead mice which must have been hidden there many years as they were now almost skeletons. Freddy squatted down and reached under a still remaining floorboard. He had spied a piece of paper which must have been slipped into a crack between the floorboards also many years ago. It was a drawing but was not of the quality of those of Philip. It was also most indecent! It was a drawing of a cock and balls with a patch of hair above and the clear inscription below - 'Edward as he showed himself drawn by me William this day July 20 1747'. Freddy was laughing as he held it near the candle.

"That is most like Branscombe though it does not show a silver ring!" he said giggling as he handed me the sheet.

I dare not laugh but put on as pious a face as I could. "That was some naughty boy all those years ago. Look! It is almost a hundred years old. I warrant Edward and William are both long dead and gone."

Freddy's giggles stopped. "Poor boys. Who were they?"

"That I do not know and we can hardly ask my Uncle Dodd, though he knows the history of this house. He would wish to know our interest and it would be difficult to say why without displaying this to him."

Freddy nodded. "That is so. We must find a way of enquiring without arousing any suspicions."

I rolled the sheet carefully. "I will keep this carefully and we can ask Robin and Branscombe." Also, I thought, I might venture to show it to Lancelot and ask!

"You would show it to Branscombe?" Freddy asked. "You will not say what I said, please?"

"What you said is safe with me but I agree it is like a boy we have both seen." I grinned at him. "Even though this boy has no silver ring."

We went back to the next room and I place the roll carefully in the drawer in the writing table. It was none too soon as Benjy rapped on the door. When he entered he said he had orders to see we were dressed for dinner this evening as my cousin Erasmus would be present with my uncle and aunt as well. He said he would bring a clean shirt for Freddy from his room.

After he left us I had to explain to Freddy that my cousin was another clergyman and he would also be attending the wedding in London and taking part in the ceremony. He made a face at that but quickly dropped his eyes. "I am rather tired of clergymen," he said, "Though your uncle is most agreeable."

I detected there was more to be said but did not question him. His father was in Holy Orders and he was not tired of him as he mentioned him favourably most frequently. I would raise this later when he was ready to talk. I said Erasmus was very clever and was studying the history of the Earth. I told him about the fossils we had been shown in coal and he said he hoped he might be chosen to join Mr Ridley's class when he was older. He said it was another of his father's interests though his mother did not approve. I said I had found a book on Geology in Mr Pretyman's Library and he might ask Mr Pretyman if he might peruse it.

He smiled at this. "Mr Pretyman is very careful who is allowed to look at his books since he said some oaf had spread plum preserve over a copy of 'Robinson Crusoe' which he valued highly."

I laughed. I had heard that story both from Mr Pretyman and also the culprit. "That oaf," I said quietly, "is Major Torquil Browning, my brother, who is marrying Branscombe's sister next week."

Poor Freddy. He did look woebegone then. I just laughed again. "Mr Pretyman said all was forgiven as my brother had at least read one book in his time at Ashbourne." I smiled at Freddy who had now seen the humorous side of the occasion. "My brother was no scholar but he has risen high as a soldier. He has still to see a battle, he says, but he would acquit himself well there I am sure."

"And am I to meet him?" Freddy enquired quietly.

"Yes, and my other brother, too," I said with a grin. Freddy would no doubt be teased by Terence as I had been at his age.

Benjy returned not only with a clean shirt but a shiny pair of shoes which also had been mine when younger. He held them up. "Mrs Browning says if these are a size for you they would be better as the ones you are wearing are sadly worn."

Poor Freddy looked most downcast at this. I knew my mother usually instructed Marie to give my unwanted clothing to Aunt Matty to distribute to needy boys in the village. These shoes and the shirt must have been overlooked.

"I should ask my grandfather for new shoes and clothes," he said quietly. "I have grown this year and my mother has not seen me since last summer."

I took the shoes from Benjy. "Once you are dressed try these on." I said no more as I surmised my mother or Aunt Fanny would be shopping for more boy's clothing once we arrived in London.

He did look smart when he donned the clean shirt and Benjy tied his cravat for him. Also the shoes fitted him perfectly. He was happy then.

I had to hurry to make myself a match for him and as we stood looking in the pier glass Robin and Branscombe returned looking a little hot and flustered.

"We were in the garden when we saw smoke and flames from Parminter's cottage," Robin said. "The chimney was on fire so we ran to warn them but it was out when we arrived."

"The man there had doused the kitchen fire and the flames did not take hold of the roof," added Branscombe.

The lodge at the end of the drive had been thatched but a storm some five years ago had shown it to have been badly made so my father had ordered the roof to be tiled. A chimney fire and a thatched roof was always a combination to be worried about.

"My father will be glad of his decision not to have the thatch replaced," I said. I then had to explain to Branscombe and Freddy what had happened and that Stead, one of the thatchers, was not pleased there was one less cottage under his care. I knew my father had suggested he also learned about tiling but he said he was too old and set in his ways to learn a new trade.

Both then had to prepare themselves as dinner was to be at half past six as Erasmus would insist he returned to his house in the next parish before it got too late. All this made me forget that the paper Freddy had found was still to be shown and discussed!

Dinner was most substantial though it was Sunday. I noted that Erasmus was not as scrawny as in the past. I also noted Lancelot's smile as he urged Rass to have another helping of the roast lamb as he said it was most succulent. There was much discussion again about the forthcoming wedding and I detected that Lancelot was as bored as we younger ones for he winked at me when his mother said she was still not decided which hat she might wear. At least Erasmus and Branscombe were in deep conversation as they discussed which flies were better for fast or slow-moving streams. I had forgotten the rods in his and Maitland's room. Freddy was showing signs of tiredness and Benjy whispered to my mother and Freddy was led off to bed. At last we moved to the Library which was more pleasant than the Drawing-room which suffered from draughts no matter which shutters or curtains were over the windows.

Our glasses were carried in by the younger footmen, Benjy, Eamonn and the twins, while Mr Clements and Jackson preceded us carrying the decanters. As we sat they stood ready to pour another glassful of port for the gentlemen with a small amount for boys and none for the ladies!

At last my mother and Aunt Matty had exhausted their discussion of the wedding and moved to village gossip which as they whispered was impossible to hear. Branscombe and my cousin Erasmus were again engaged in tales of fishing. My father and Uncle Dodd, as usual, were making mock of the latest political declarations while Lancelot was asking Robin and me about our progress at Ashbourne.

He said my father had shown him a letter he had received from Mr Ridley which, he said with a smile, was full of praise for both of us. I knew that Lancelot had not attended a school but had been tutored at home by his father and an old curate who had died some years ago. The curate had also been an untrained physician and had encouraged Lancelot to study for the profession when he went up to Cambridge.

I merely said that we did our work together and seemed to progress without making too many errors. I said we both enjoyed Mr Ridley's extra classes and learned much of interest there. However Robin was most forward and said I had made a very good impression with my discourse on time but I also had a good reputation as a curer of all ills, especially bruises from playing football. He remarked that he had overheard Mr Dimbleby's son, the doctor, say I was showing good judgement. He grinned at me as he said this for he had not disclosed this to me before. "Your hat might not fit if I told you every time one of our fellows remarked he might need to consult you."

I then had to give an account of the treatments I had given. Lancelot laughed as I said I would need a generous supply of arnica especially as this was my most needed remedy. "If only it were mine," he said, "There are too many complaints I cannot cure." He said this with a rueful shake of his head.

He was amused then when I said of Maitland's cracked tooth and agreed my suggestion it should be drawn was right. He was most amused when I said the tooth had been removed by a farrier. "Mr Barker, as you know, is the best tooth-drawer we have here. A quick wrench is needed most times and someone who has experience of removing nails from horse's hooves has that strength and skill." Poor Robin looked a mite askance at this. I knew his general abhorrence of anything medical.

Lancelot saw his look and changed the subject asking him what he enjoyed most about being a pupil. He smiled then. "It is a whole new venture for me. I was most apprehensive how I would be accepted. My fag-masters have made me welcome. My classmates without exception have never questioned my station and all of the Masters have given me every opportunity I need." His gaze on Lancelot was then most solemn. "But the greatest thing I value is Tom's support of me in this great change in my fortune."

Lancelot smiled and leaned towards him and said most sincerely. "Tom is more than a friend to you, I know. He values you more than he dare admit." He looked at me. "I have no wish to embarrass you, but it is true?"

I could do no more than nod. My cousin had judged correctly that great love I had for my Robin.

Fishing and flies must have been exhausted as topics of conversation as Erasmus and Branscombe joined us with Erasmus signalling that our glasses needed replenishing. I was rather surprised as Erasmus had been most abstemious in the past. However, even we three youngsters were included, though with lesser amounts. When it was filled Lancelot raised his glass to Erasmus. "We have discussed before what it says in the good book, 'Look not upon the wine when it is red' but I find it most agreeable."

"Brother, all in moderation," Erasmus replied, "And I am exploring what is moderate." When Erasmus smiled his whole face became animated. He took a rather large sip of his port. He breathed deeply and then said quietly "I have also something to divulge and wonder if I should wait until after the wedding."

This startled his brother. "Not another wedding?" he asked.

Erasmus smiled. "No, Lotto, it's not that, though neither of us has made that plunge."

Branscombe looked at me and raised his eyebrows. I gave a slight shrug.

"What is it then, Rass?" Lancelot enquired.

With both brothers using their boyhood names for each other it must be something important.

"I have had a letter from the Master of St Mark's," Erasmus began, then almost shouted, which startled everyone else, "I have been offered a Fellowship!"

His father looked over with a knowing smile on his face. "A Fellowship?" he asked and I think we all surmised he knew more.

"Father, it would be in Hebrew and Old Testament Exegesis. What more could I ask for?"

His mother looked over at him so fondly and smiled. Lancelot was more demonstrative leaping up and hugging his still-seated brother. "It's what you have wanted all these years," he said. He laughed. "Has old Quigley drunk himself into a more than ancient grave?"

There was a quiet reprimanding 'Lancelot!' from his father.

Erasmus was smiling. "Dr Quigley has been persuaded he should spend his remaining years assisting the Chaplain in his duties."

Lancelot chuckled. "Two old reprobates together."

His father wagged a finger at him, but there was no word of reprimand as he was quite clearly suppressing a laugh.

"A toast to my most accomplished nephew!" my father announced and again the signal was for glasses to be filled. My mother and Aunt Matty were supplied with the sweet white wine which they favoured.

We all stood and raised our glasses and I was glad I had the support of the chair I had been sitting on against my legs. "To Erasmus!" was the general toast and I felt even more light-headed as I downed the stimulating potion.

My father had an announcement himself. He looked pointedly at Robin and me when he said there was to be the usual Easter Saturday Hunt over the Squire's land and Cobblers Farm even towards Castle Bytham. We knew that was the Templars' land but he then said there would be up to forty gentlemen riding with at least a dozen couples of hounds and that certain riders might observe but he was not going to be responsible for any damaged limbs or broken heads.

This was a clear order that neither Robin nor I would be allowed to participate as active riders. It was disappointing but if we started early and the huntsmen indicated before that foxes had been sighted in that direction we could get to the Templar farm and explore. I wondered about Branscombe and Freddy? Branscombe was not a seasoned rider and Freddy would have to go at a slow pace. Would we be permitted to leave our guests to their own devices? We would have to wait and see.

That night in bed Robin and I discussed that possible excursion but both of us were too fuddled to spend time on events in the future. Even being in each other arms did not mean we could go further and almost sighing we succumbed to the arms of Morpheus! It was only in the morning that I remembered the rude drawing but did not say anything as Benjy was his usual bustling self. He did say my father had already breakfasted and gone to the village and stables and was in a very good temper.

We four boys breakfasted together and Mr Clements said my father was arranging that morning for Freddy, and us others if we wished, to visit Colonel Neville at Moss Hall on Wednesday. All being well we would travel by the two-wheeled fly belonging to Mr Barker the blacksmith with just Rowley driving. He said that the coaches at the stables were being prepared for the big journey next week.

It was obvious that Freddy wanted us to travel with him and being inquisitive I wanted to be reminded what Moss Hall looked like. I remembered that it stood at the end of just a small hamlet mainly of estate cottages and was surrounded by many trees and small streams. This would please Branscombe as the Colonel was also a keen fisherman. Unfortunately, by suffering from gout, the Colonel would not be venturing out even for that favourite pastime.

It was then decided we would take the two boys around the village. Benjy whispered to me that one of the kitchen boys had been sent to Miss Barnes' house to say we would be there later in the morning. He did wink as he said this as it would mean some refreshment would be forthcoming. The forge would be our first call and that would be amusing I was sure.

We were ready to set off just after nine o'clock. Robin and I were carrying our instrument cases as we went to the Hall stable where Bobby had readied Blaze and Silver with the two ponies for Branscombe and Freddy. Robin and I had made a pact we would not subject either of the others to any japes! We said nothing either as we dismounted at the forge leaving our cases securely tied to our saddles.

Someone must have alerted the brothers that we would be visiting. Although it was still chilly outside the forge itself was stiflingly hot with white hot coals on the fire. Two sweating figures were busy beating red hot bars with Jacob also pumping the bellows. We divested ourselves of our cloaks and hats and watched intently. Those two most muscular lads had no clothing other than loose underclouts which were drawn up tight with a leather apron above. For the moment they ignored our entry. Robin and I exchanged glances as Branscombe and Freddy stared transfixed as the heavy bars were then picked up with huge pincers and doused in the trough of water. The place was then clouded in steam and before anyone moved Freddy and Branscombe were lifted bodily with squawks and screeches from both of them. The brothers had scooted behind them without them noticing.

"Sacrifices to the great god Baal!" came a shout from Isaac.

"Into the flames!" intoned Jacob in a most deep voice.

The steam was clearing and the absolute looks of horror and dismay on the two boys' faces were most evident.

"No, No!" I called out, "Let them be! These are not the naughty kitchen boys we promised you!" I had improvised that readily. Perhaps I should contemplate a life on the stage!

After that startling introduction both Freddy and Branscombe seemed a little apprehensive and I knew that Branscombe, especially, would probably accuse us of being accomplices in the drama. After they were set down it was Robin who calmed any fears by saying both of us had been subjected to numerous tricks and ploys by the pair including the same as they had just endured; there was no harm meant. Even Branscombe relaxed after that and Jacob said they would find their clothing undirtied as both he and his brother had clean hands.

Branscombe was laughing then. He turned to me. "So this is my introduction to your village, eh? What other delights have you for us?" He looked at Isaac, then Jacob. "My, I only wish I had your muscles then I might be able to control these unruly cattle!" He pointed to Robin and me. Cattle! I wondered if the ponies...? Perhaps not, yet! Isaac and Jacob then stood side by side with arms raised to show their fine arm muscles. While they were doing this I introduced both to Branscombe who grinned at them, shaking his head. Another example of one social class accepting another with no difficulty.

Freddy wanted to pump the bellows. He had recovered quickly from his experience and stepped over to stand in front of Jacob. "I am not allowed to be near the forge in our village. My mother says it is not suitable but I have crept in when she is making a visit elsewhere and Bowen has let me pump but not to get dirty. May I pump here?"

"Young sir, of course you may," Jacob said with a courtly bow. As Branscombe and I were behind him we grinned as Jacob's muscular back and almost bare backside were clear in view. However, the beam was rather high so a lump of wood was placed for Freddy to stand on and soon the fire was glowing very hot again.

We were then shown some fine ironwork which my father had ordered for dividing off plots in the walled garden and I was reminded to ask when we should bring in our steeds for new shoes. Wednesday would be suitable as we would be away all day calling on Colonel Neville though they seemed to know that arrangement already.

After more chat and a promise to visit again, at which Branscombe sneered at Robin and me, we took up our cloaks and bade them good day. Robin kept looking back at the forge as if something was puzzling him. Branscombe was both mollified and amused but I knew we had to be wary. Freddy was so pleased with doing something else usually forbidden to him any scare he might have had was forgotten.

As we rode to Miss Barnes' house we passed the area set aside for the new Almshouses. Foundations had been fully prepared and several courses of bricks had been laid with three of the estate bricklayers and two hod carriers working busily. I greeted them and they raised their caps politely in reply. We stopped for a moment or two and Branscombe was most complimentary on the good standard of bricklaying. He said his father had explained to him the different styles and methods and he recognised the Flemish bond they were using. There was an affirmative nod from Marston who was in charge of the work. I noted that one of the hod boys was Jesse Flagge's younger brother who was reputed to be able to piss out of two holes in his cock.

We went to the side entrance of the Grange and tied up our mounts. Miss Barnes had a stable man but he was not in attendance. Cissy Brumby opened the door to us and bobbed and curtsied most proficiently and said she would inform Mr Saunders of our arrival. He arrived puffing and panting and bowed us in through the hallway where we left our outer clothing. He said Miss Barnes was awaiting us. As usual she was swathed in many shawls though I noted that the fire was burning brightly and not kept damped down as sometimes before.

She was most welcoming and after raising her hands and smiling she wanted to know who our most handsome companions were. She had not recognised Freddy, who she then said was growing fast, which pleased him. Branscombe was surveyed with a quizzical look.

"Branscombe, eh? I know that name. My late father travelled to India by way of a naval ship once and the commander was a Captain Branscombe I am sure. Many years ago that would be."

"Ma'am, both my father and grandfather were naval captains and I have heard tales of India from my father though my grandfather died some fifteen or so years ago so I do not remember him," Branscombe said. "I wonder if it was he, as his journals relate he made that journey many times?"

"I read my father's papers constantly for their great interest as he was meticulous in keeping records and that is why the name is familiar. He was employed by the East India Company as many young men were at the time and had a great fascination with all Indian life. I enjoy his memories through his writings."

I smiled to myself as some of that fascination was shown also in collecting strange carvings which inquisitive youngsters could enjoy!

When Miss Barnes asked Robin to summon the maids by pulling on the bell rope I realised that contrivance must have been repaired. Not only was Cissy Brumby now a good parlourmaid but she had two other young girls from the village as her assistants as they trundled in a repaired and not squeaking trolley. We were served tea in elegant cups. "From China," Miss Barnes noted as they were passed to us. Good ham was in the sandwiches and there were more than usual substantial small cakes as well. Miss Barnes' household had been transformed.

As we sat and consumed the food Miss Barnes said that my Aunt Matty had been most helpful as her old cook had fallen and was really too old to work. My aunt had suggested she moved to the Almshouses as an even older inhabitant had died and as there was room for two a second elderly parlourmaid was installed as her carer. This had meant a new cook and other staff were required so Prudence Cutts and the Brumby sisters had been installed with even younger girls as well. I wondered when Mr Saunders would be dispensed with.

Miss Barnes was in full flow. "That good boy Isaac Barker has repaired all my bells and my chimneys have been swept for the first time in many years. I do not know how things had become so uncomfortable."

Branscombe looked at me when Isaac was described as 'good boy'. He curled his lip slightly.

I had deliberately left my flute case on a ledge near where we had tied up the horses. Robin had brought his violin case in with him. As we finished eating and drinking I said Robin and I would play but I must fetch my instrument. I looked at Branscombe and nodded my head indicating he should follow me. Freddy was more interested in seeing and hearing Robin make sure his violin was in tune.

As we left the room I whispered to Branscombe that he should stand on the settle under the carving which I noted was now quite clean and no longer dusty. I left him and hurried out to fetch my flute. When I returned he was giggling and making rude movements with his hips.

"In an old lady's house? I would not believe it. And so big, too! Puts Preston to shame! And two men?"

I held up a finger. "I am ashamed of you. What would your fag say if he heard such things from your lips?" I couldn't contain myself and giggled, too, and Branscombe slapped me on the back as I changed to a cough on re-entering the room.

"Another dish of tea, Tom, to ease your throat?" Miss Barnes was most solicitous. After experiencing a glimpse of the carving even from floor level I needed something else eased.

Miss Barnes was entranced as we played some of our favourite pieces. A Duet by Amadeus Mozart and the Gavotte by Mr Handel were just two and even Branscombe did not looked bored when, for him, we finished with the Sailor's Hornpipe.

We thanked Miss Barnes again for the gifts of the two instruments and Robin explained once more that Mr Venables had advised against taking that violin to Ashbourne. I said I was teaching Freddy to play the flute and Miss Barnes said Timmy was progressing well and had played to her only last week.

Miss Barnes said she would be attending dinner at the Hall on Saturday but was unable to take up the invitation to the wedding as she felt she was now too old to travel to London or elsewhere. "I remember though my happy visits to London for the theatre and to Bath for the Balls and the concerts." She raised a finger. "Remind me to get your cousin to prescribe some of that water from the spa at Bath. It has the most disagreeable taste but is much recommended for rheumatism and suchlike."

Riding back to Careby Hall Branscombe did remark that Saturday's conversation would be varied with discussion of the day's Hunt, the forthcoming wedding and also now the rheumatics! I could see he also wanted to add strange carvings with big pricks to that list but he did forbear though we boys would make comments once Freddy was not present!

We rode back by means of another lane and I pointed out the main stables in the distance which we would also visit. This lane meandered round two ponds from one of which I knew Lancelot gathered his leeches. Somewhere else for a visit would be Lancelot's room and cellar at the Rectory. I would not ask him to inflict the severed head on Branscombe as, no doubt, Freddy would be in attendance. But, if reprisals were forthcoming over the happenings at the forge I might arrange a private showing!

Passing a few cottages, now with their gardens neatly dug and hoed and newly planted, we joined the main road through the village. I pointed out Mr Venables' shop and the Varley Arms. I think Branscombe was tempted to enter there and try a tankard of ale but I said he could sup good ale at Careby Hall for luncheon and time was getting on.

On arriving back and leaving our mounts in Bobby Brewer's care we doused our faces and hands under the pump much to Freddy's amusement. It was something he had not experienced before and delighted in shaking his wet hair like a soaked dog as Branscombe said. Indoors we did not have much time to wait before we were summoned for luncheon.

My father was already seated and as we entered and stood bowing our heads in greeting he let out a guffaw. This was the signal for Robin to ask a question.

"Grandfather, did you find the forge very hot this morning?"

My father let out another great belly laugh. "My boy, you have unmasked the villain!"

My thoughts raced and I came to the same conclusion. "Father, the sacrifice was to be a bullock, not boys!"

Branscombe and Freddy were looking from one to the other of Robin and me and then stared at my father.

My father held out his hands towards Branscombe and Freddy. "I trust you did not suffer too greatly. Sit first and let me hear what happened?"

Branscombe was then shaking his head in wonderment. He had also concluded that my father was the prime mover of the jape.

"Mr Browning, sir, I have never been so mistreated as that!" His face then creased in a smile and he laughed. "I must tell my father. He will be most amused, though I doubt he would have been so inventive!" He looked down at Freddy who was still rather bemused at the conversation. "That is something more not to tell your mother, eh? Mr Browning visited the forge before us..." He paused.

Freddy looked up at him and also smiled. "...Did Mr Browning ask them to tease us?" He looked across at my father. "Please, sir, those big boys were so strong and I was not afraid and they let me pump the bellows."

My father looked at me as we took our seats. "The ponies?" he asked. I shook my head. That jape had not been played. Branscombe was quick off the mark.

"Sir, I surmise there are other surprises for unwary visitors." he said with the hint of a grin.

My father had signalled to Benjy and Eamonn who were standing ready to serve us but with ears flapping no doubt. Plates were soon piled with cold cuts and hot roast potatoes.

My father paused before cutting a slice in two. "I find living in the country is full of surprises," he said. "I confess it was worth that shilling for this morning's ruse."

"And, no doubt, father, you would have paid another shilling to witness it," I said and nearly choked trying not to giggle and to swallow at the same time.

Even Branscombe laughed at that. My choking or the statement I was not sure.

My father had news to impart as he put a hand in his pocket and drew out a sheet of paper. "It is a pity you boys will be back at school but I have had a letter today from the Militia commander in Stamford saying we are to have not only the men under his command but a company of Fencibles from Peterborough to play at being soldiers against our Major Torquil's troopers."

I had not told Branscombe or Freddy of the camp to be held. We heard it was now to be in May when farm and like work would be less as crops would be growing but not ready for harvesting. I asked if the new Mrs Browning would be visiting Careby with her husband. Father just laughed and said that was something to desire. Branscombe said rather wistfully that he was sorry he could not be present but he was sure his sister would wish to visit Careby as he had found his time here so far to be most agreeable. My father winked at me and I was sure Branscombe saw that.

As soon as luncheon was over Freddy was whisked away to be with my mother. More music I was sure. This meant I was now free to show Robin and Cedric the ancient treasure, as I called it, discovered by Freddy. Both Robin and Branscombe wanted to visit the commode so whispered comments from Benjy, who had accompanied us up the stairs, told me the tale of young Shanks. That was something to discuss later with Robin. Benjy left to carry out other duties, he said archly, so when the boys had finished we went next door to the bedroom where I said that Freddy and I had looked at the excavations. I produced the rolled up paper which I had taken from my desk. As I unrolled it there were guffaws led by Branscombe who made a most inappropriate comment about what hung between his roommate Maitland's legs.

"Who were these boys?" he asked as Robin read out the inscription.

I shook my head. "I do not know. Who can I ask?" I explained that perhaps Lancelot might be approached.

" I think my brother James might know but we could not ask him," Robin said handing the paper back to me. "He has written a history of the Hall from documents Uncle Dodd has in his study. I have seen his pages about the Varleys and how the last one was killed in a duel. Of course, there may be inscriptions in the church. We could visit tomorrow and look. Our excuse could be that our visitors wanted to hear Tom play the organ."

Branscombe was nodding. "We know they were alive in 1747." He sneered at us. "A well-made boy of sixteen or so I would say."

I did young Freddy a disservice. I broke my promise. "Young Freddy said he had seen something like this but with extra adornment," I said and dodged away before Branscombe reacted.

Branscombe was not fazed. "A boy with good judgement then. As I said, a well- made boy..." He stopped as he was laughing but I was not.

"I promised not to tell you what he said," I confessed and shook my head. "I have broken my promise."

Cedric just grinned. "I would have been tempted to do the same. Do not worry. I promise I will not tell him. A most discerning boy, though!"

"Not discerning," I said, "Just observant. He did not comment on size..."

This time Branscombe did catch me by the arm and a sharp slap was received on my backside. "And were you party to your father's sport this morning?"

I shook my head. "We have experienced the same so Isaac and Jacob are well- practised at dealing with unruly boys if not cattle."

Branscombe let me go with a laugh. "They have the strength of an ox, too. They would outdo any prizefighter I have seen so far. My money would be on the elder one any time."

Robin laughed. "I doubt you would get either of them in a huckster's booth. They are good Methodists even though both do like a taste of ale."

On going back to the other bedroom we had to tell the tale of the renaming of Isaac in his drunkenness and then I said they would be good replacements for our Parish Constable who was a perpetual drunkard. Of course, Lemuel's dalliances with Sarah Rogers were recounted. We confessed we had witnessed certain couplings which made even Branscombe gape. "You have experienced so much more than me," he said. He grinned. "But then you are but country lads and even I know what happens between a stallion and mare."

Robin put on an idiot look. "Tell me, sir, what else may they do together? I have seen them munch hay."

He got a withering look. "Don't cozen me, you wretch, or I will tell your old uncle what frolics you disturb poor Maitland and me with each..." He stopped and bit his lip. He went over to Robin and held his arm. "I should not have said that, dear Robin. Please forgive me."

Robin smiled up at him. "It is only what all boys do and Tom and I are quite open about such things."

Branscombe shook his head. "It is something we cannot subdue but it is a thing where guilt abounds."

"There is no need for guilt," I said. "I have heard of fathers beating their sons for a thing they call a sin. It has not stopped them..."

"...Except for Zeb," interjected Robin.

"He's a zealous fool," I said.

We had then to describe Zeb and his over-pious ways. Branscombe's mood lightened as I went over Isaac and Jacob Barkers' descriptions of what had been seen and heard.

"I do remember the first time I was made aware of such behaviour," Branscombe said now with a smile. "It was the last year I was a Whelp in Mr Pretyman's House. I shared a bed with Maitland and a most forward boy who went on later to Rugby School. He came back to school for the Summer term and showed his new accomplishment and then wept and recited that passage about being unclean. He repeated that each night until we held him down and put a hand over his mouth to stop him disturbing the others in the room. He still wept each time and it was in the last week of that term that both I and Maitland found we were able to match him." He laughed. "We certainly did not weep and our facecloths soon removed any uncleanness."

"Amen to that," said cheeky Robin and we all laughed together.

It was then I lifted down the African statue which I noted was well-polished and glistening. It was evident he was being well-cared for. Branscombe roared after hearing it was a gift to Timmy from Miss Barnes. I explained who Timmy was and said he had a black pizzle to match the boy's even now. Robin told of his calculations and I said if Branscombe stroked the object the boy might smile.

"He looks like that damned statue in your uncle's study? He is not as equipped as this, though," Branscombe said with a chuckle.

"It is true of Curly as well," I said as seriously as I could. "I have stroked his peg many times but my action cannot be to his liking. Perhaps your greater experience might induce him to smile."

I stepped out of the way as he lunged at me. "You cheeky wretch!" He laughed and stepped back. "You call him Curly? That is quite exact." He sneered at me then. "If there is opportunity I shall watch and see your action but I doubt if you need instruction."

Robin was laughing. "I have heard of Tom's efforts. I warrant he is a little too rough as his own peg has been most sore at times."

Branscombe shook his head. "We are being most open with each other. It is something to keep to our own selves and not to make free at Ashbourne. There is much loose talk there but most is idle boast I am sure."

Robin nodded. "You mean with the wenches?"

Branscombe agreed. "That is so. Some is true no doubt but when Pratt's rabble are in drink there is much such talk."

"As they are in drink most days does that not take away the performance as Mr Shakespear says?" I said also contemplating that Master Robin would feel the edge of my tongue but not where he liked it best!

Branscombe looked at me with a puzzled air. "You have read more than I," he said and grinned. "I would not know the other as I know no wenches."

"Therefore," I said with a serious look, "We must take pleasure where we find it."

Two boys grinned and said together "Amen to that!"

To be continued.

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