Tom Browning's Schooldays
By
Joel
Chapter FiftyFour
I had the key to the organ in my pocket so went to the low dais on which it stood and unlocked the cover over the keys. Robin came and stood by my side.
"I think you should play first, Uncle Tom," he said in a voice loud enough for all to hear and, no doubt, for the bewilderment of Rufus Pennington who looked rather puzzled as all, including Uncle Dodd, chuckled.
"Thank you, nephew," I said curtly, "Your task will be to turn the pages and be careful you follow the notes so as not to turn too early nor too late."
"Yes, uncle," he said humbly and gave me a dig in the back as I slid onto the organ bench.
I had brought our favourite book of the Voluntaries by Mr Stanley. Mr Skrimshire had spent some time with me over Number Ten and I turned to it. I liked this one very much though it was in the minor key and the first movement marked Grave. Mr Skrimshire had told me to play it slower than I had done previously so to make the imitations stand out and also to keep the tempo exact. He had shown me how to make the mordent on the first bass note which I had not done as I did not know the meaning of the sign for that ornament. A careful turn was needed, the main note G, the F sharp below and the G again now held for the rest of the bar. The instruction was Full Organ so I drew most of the stops including our one reed stop and coupled the manuals with the Swell box open. Young Philip had filled the wind chest as the mouse on its string indicated so I began the piece and was pleased with what progress I had made under Mr Skrimshires's tutelage. Before I had played it to him he had first described it as a double fugue. As he realised I was not too sure what he had meant he had marked the various entries for the first fugue with a pencil tick and then showed where the second fugue started and how they came together towards the end. So, knowing about the structure of the piece helped me play with much more confidence.
As I knew that Robin had also studied this Voluntary I did not go on to the second movement. It would be his turn now. He took my place and changed the registration by cancelling the reed and using only the Diapason and Principal on the Great. He closed the Swell box which I realised he would open when the first entry of the second fugue had to be announced. He whispered he would need the reed added towards the end. I nodded as that would be after the quavers in the bass against the held notes above. All went well and it showed he had also benefited from our extra lessons. At the end there was a congratulatory murmur from the others listening and we both nodded our thanks to Philip who made play that his arms ached.
My uncle was the first to speak and said he had much enjoyed our playing but he must be off to see Rufus on his way. As we said our goodbyes to him we did have time to find out that he had only one more term in residence and that his Tripos examinations were due as soon as he returned to Cambridge. He realised we might know of what had occurred for he said he did not think the recent events would harm his chances of being awarded his degree as there had been a happy conclusion. He did say he would not have known what might have happened if they had reached Scotland for he had been promised a position in the Bank of England when he completed his studies. At least he could now soon contemplate marriage with a happy expectation for his future.
As soon as the door closed behind the pair Freddy could not be contained. He rushed along to stand under the two memorials. "So that's the William who drew that Edward's..." He did stop there. He looked rather abashed. 'Cock and balls' were not words to be shouted out in a church. Branscombe hurried up to him.
"Freddy, wait a while," he said quietly and held his arm again.
I looked at Philip who was still standing by the handle of the bellows pump but seemed not to have heard Freddy's outburst. Things would have to be explained though at some time. I beckoned him down from his position. "Let us go back to the Hall as it is cold in here and we have played as promised."
"And that most admirably," said Branscombe coming back to us and leading a chastened Freddy.
Robin and I retrieved our cloaks and hats where we had left them draped over the old choir stalls. As we put them on Philip pointed to one of the seats there. He went over to it and Branscombe and Freddy followed him.
"Let me show you something quite rare." He lifted up the wooden seat and showed it was hinged with a ledge and a carving of a leaping man underneath. "We have only two left here now but in the olden days when the monks who worshipped in this church had to stand for long services they could rest by sitting on the ledge. Uncle Dodd says they are called misericords as they took pity on the poor old monks. He said the congregation had to stand whether they liked it or not and we are fortunate now we have pews to sit in."
Branscombe knelt down to look more closely. "That is very old. The wood is worn so many must have sat here."
Philip pointed to a scratched date. "Uncle Dodd does not know if that is true but it reads 1433. If that is so we know that William Redmill of Stamford was the priest here then and had six monks in a convent close by which has long disappeared." He went to the second seat and showed the carving of a sheaf of corn there. "Uncle Dodd says we are most privileged to have these as many have disappeared. I would like to visit the big church in Boston they call the Stump for that has a good number. Peters, one of the coachmen, comes from near there and says he has been shown them."
I had seen the seat many times but did not know the history nor about the Boston Stump. Uncle Dodd had an etching of that church in his study and said it was one of the finest he had ever seen. I was again impressed by Philip. If he was not to be an artist he could readily be an antiquarian. Branscombe was impressed, too.
"I have not seen such things before. Our village has an old church but it has no monuments nor seats like these. It lies low so is cold and damp though my father pays for coal and wood for the fire in autumn and winter." He laughed. "At least the cold keeps the curate's sermons short."
"You have a curate?" Robin asked.
"Yes, that is so. My father did explain that the church is a daughter church of the one in the next village where the rector lives. He has two curates as he has a further church in another village as well which is a chapel-at-ease whatever that might mean." He laughed. "He is a most jolly man and rides to hounds as often as he can. My father says he can afford it as his stipend is worth nigh on six hundred pounds a year and his wife was an only child with a goodly inheritance."
I shivered as though the fires had been lit for Sunday the church now was cold. "Let us go back to the warmth of the Hall," I said. Philip said he had to go to the Rectory for a lesson with my uncle which was fortunate as we others had things to discuss about the drawing.
As we trudged back kicking up stones and stamping others down Freddy asked me if he might be allowed to play the organ. I said he should ask my Aunt Matty who was to hear him play the fortepiano again this afternoon. "That is a fine instrument to be master of," he said, "That music master who teaches my sister plays in our church but the organ there has but one set of keys and nothing for the feet." He smiled up at me. "You did not put your feet on those which I could see match the pattern of the keys above."
"I would use my feet if I learned to do so. At Ashbourne we have made some progress but I would need more time to practise. There is a set of long pipes which sound for those as well as a stop which joins the pipes you are playing." I felt that was not a good explanation but Freddy nodded.
"I read that on one of those knobs. It said 'Pedal Coupler', is that not so?"
I thought he was a most observant lad. We continued along the roadway in silence and passed through the side gate of the big entry gates to the Hall. "This is a big house," he said as we stopped to make sure the gate was latched. "I have not seen such a house before. There is an estate nearby at Cavendish but I have not seen the house though my father has preached in the chapel there."
"You like being here?" I asked.
He smiled again. "It is warm and there are places to sit without a draught or where the ceiling does not drip water."
"That is your grandfather's?" I asked. "It should be better now with the repairs which have been done."
"I hope it is better. His servants grumbled all the time as it made so much work. The kitchen down below was the warmest and best place. Mrs Carmody his cook always welcomed me there and there was always a bite extra to eat. My mother does not allow me to go to the kitchen in our house though I know where there is a secret stair."
"Which you use?"
He nodded. "My mother does not know!"
"We shall see your grandfather tomorrow and see if the servants still grumble."
"Who will be travelling?" he asked.
"I think there will be Branscombe, Robin and I, if that will not be too many to disturb your grandfather."
"Would there be room for Robin's brothers?" he asked
"I doubt in the fly," I said, "With three inside and you running alongside it would be crowded anyway."
He gave me a questioning look then realised I was jesting.
I shook my head. "You will be travelling to London with them next week. Perhaps they might visit Moss Hall if you are there in the summer."
"I must see my father in the summer. It is a long way home but I travel to Ipswich with Jocelyn and our coachman will be waiting there. Father says he has plans for digging more at Eye."
"Then you will have more Roman things." I said wondering if he would see his mother.
He stopped. "I have forgotten," he said, then smiled. "I have the Roman coins in the bottom of my chest. Mr Pretyman said I had to take them home with me. He had also forgotten I was not travelling that far. I must show them to Philip."
We had reached the side door of the Hall and went through and found two of the younger stable boys carrying loads of wood and coals up to the bedrooms. Benjy was in charge and they were laughing and sharing some jest but when they saw us they bowed their heads and then went about their tasks in silence.
There was still a deal of time before any luncheon might be ready so we went up to the bedroom which had been swept and tidied and a good fire was blazing. There was also a clatter of banging and sawing from rooms along the passageway as carpenters and other workers were busy in the bedrooms readying them for the installation of the pans and pipes during our absence.
Branscombe was ready to deal with the inscriptions and the picture before Freddy could open his mouth. "Let us set out what we have found," Branscombe said and went over to my desk. I opened the drawer there to get out the drawing which Freddy had found. I flattened it out and a grinning Freddy put an inkpot and quill stand on the edges to keep it from rolling up again. Branscombe then drew out a scrap of paper from his pocket with a stub of pencil. "I made a note of dates we saw in the church," he said flattening out his own page. "Edward Sheridan died in 1757 when he was twenty-six, so he was born..." He paused.
"...In 1731," interjected Robin quietly.
Branscombe wrote that date on the paper. "The other, William Matthews, was twenty-nine in 1760 so that is the same birth year," he said triumphantly.
Freddy pointed at the drawing. "This was made in 1747..." He paused.
"A well-made lad, eh?" I said, "Sixteen from 1747 is..." Four boys all said '1731' in chorus.
Robin was shaking his head. "They both died young. That is very sad. What more can we find?"
I was trying to remember what my father had said about the history of the house. I knew he had said his father had bought the estate when it had been neglected for some years. I wondered if that had been after the death of that beloved son in India. We would have to ask Philip if he knew more. He would also have to see the drawing!
"We could ask Philip first and then we might question my father again as my brothers did." I thought I had better say what I had heard that time. "There is some mystery there, too, as he knows little about my grandfather but that he came to Careby with enough money to buy the estate. He told my brothers not to meddle but I am sure that would not hinder Torquil if he were minded to enquire further."
Branscombe laughed. "Poor boy, my father has a tree of our descent and that goes back six generations."
Robin sniggered. "Would it not be true we all descend from Adam and Eve? All those generations in the Old Testament." He held up a hand and counted on his fingers. "And Ner begat Kish, and Kish begat Saul, and Saul begat Jonathan," he recited. "Uncle Dodd says if that is true we are all cousins." He turned to Freddy who was listening intently. "Frederick Neville you must be my cousin of many generations past I am sure, back to King Nebuchadnezzar who is our great-great many times great-grandfather even though king of Babylon."
Freddy was smiling. "I must tell Lawson that. I warrant he is a cousin descended from that Saul who begat Jonathan and made David slay all those Philistines and cut off their..." He stopped as he had been pointing at the drawing and particularly at the depiction of the drooping covering for the end of the peg.
Branscombe laughed. "Even I know that for Maitland says that David paid double for his dowry. Two hundred instead of one hundred! Ouch!" he said and clutched at the front of his britches. "I must have new underclothes as these are too tight and for that moment I thought I might be a vanquished Philistine!"
Robin was grinning broadly. "How do you know about the Philistines, Freddy?"
He had also stopped smiling. He looked up warily at Robin. "I have little to read when at home. My mother does not approve of many books as she says they are of a frivolous and not improving nature. She took away my copy of Robinson Crusoe by Mr Defoe which an aunt had given me. She said she did not approve of another book he wrote called Moll something as it inflamed desires. I do not know what she means but I did find my copy where she had hidden it and read it without her knowing." He gave a wan smile. "I read my Bible as instructed but there is much there I do not understand."
"But you understand about foreskins, eh?" said Branscombe, "How is that?"
Freddy grinned then. He knew Branscombe was not censorious like his mother. "It is Lawson again. He is most forward and parades up and down with a stick as a sword and says he is David and he makes Pilbrow and Pritchard act as Philistines. When they are vanquished they have to pull their skin back and Lawson says they are worth a hundred each." He looked questioningly at Branscombe. "Would it hurt to have it cut off as Lawson says? Would you not bleed?"
I did not dare say what Mehmet had told me of his and his brother's circumcisions.
Robin stepped up to Freddy and pointed to the drawing. "He did not have it done but you should know that Jewish boys have to have it cut when they are eight days old."
Freddy nodded. "I have read that but then Abraham had all the men and boys in his house cut when he was told by God." He laughed. "And Abraham was ninety-nine!"
Robin did not laugh. "Poor Ishmael his son was but thirteen." He looked at Freddy keenly. "You have told us you will thirteen next Monday and I warrant Mr Browning's cook has a good sharp knife. I will go down now and ask."
Freddy was quick. "It is Jewish boys I know. We are Gentiles so we do not. That is what is said in the New Testament." He also moved closer to Branscombe as if for protection.
"That is a good idea, Robin," Branscombe said as if he had not heard Freddy's objection. "Perhaps Tom could do it as he wants to be a physician or a surgeon."
Poor Freddy wasn't sure then which way to turn. He did put on a brave face. "I think I would rather have a ring like yours," he said looking up at Branscombe. He shook his head. "What would I tell my mother if I had either?"
That set us off laughing and Branscombe hugged Freddy. "You will have neither now. Perhaps when you are older you could have a ring like mine and you need not tell your mother. My mother does not know about mine so you must not say anything when we are in London."
Freddy was happy now he was confident that all had been a jest. He was still concerned about the fate of the two boys. "If you are in the Navy will you be in danger?" he asked Branscombe.
He shrugged his shoulders. "That I will never know. We must find out why that ship foundered. Was it weather, bad navigation or a battle?" He turned to me. "At least that is something we could ask your uncle."
"If he does not know we could ask the Squire as it was his uncle. He may know," I said. Then I laughed. "We could not show him the drawing as it was made by his uncle."
"Are there any Sheridans who might like it for their archives?" Branscombe asked with a grin.
Robin shook his head. "There is no one in the village with that name." He laughed. "Would there be a family likeness?"
We all laughed but I picked up the drawing and rolled it up. "I think we should put it away as we will have the servants here soon to call us to luncheon. A few quiet enquiries later." The others were still grinning but nodded.
As we still had some time I gave Freddy my copy of Pickwick to read and we others picked various books to peruse. I noted that Branscombe was looking at Dr Johnson's Dictionary. He was shaking his head even after the first page or two.
"I must be a dolt," he said "Even on this first page there are words I have never heard uttered. I know 'abaft' as that is a term used concerning boats and it means 'towards the stern', but here is 'abannition', 'abbey-lubber' and 'aberuncate'. Indeed I do not know if I make the correct pronunciation." He turned over several pages sneering as he did. He stopped and laughed. "Here is one word I do know." He screwed his eyes up. "'Tis 'arse' and has true meanings given, 'the buttocks' or 'the hind part of an animal'" He realised Freddy had stopped reading. He was not perturbed as Branscombe continued. "'Tis a word that I have even heard uttered by Pups and Whelps on occasion, especially when any of you have been chastised by Mr Pretyman. Is that not so, young master?"
Freddy tried not to laugh. "I have heard it said and my grandfather often says our stableboy needs a taste of the whip on his arse!" He said it quite triumphantly, no doubt as his mother was not present to hear him say an objectionable word.
That was the end of the conversation as a rap on the door meant Benjy was ready to announce that luncheon would be served. After a good repast we decided to ride down to the stables and introduce Branscombe and Freddy to the work being done there. As usual horses were being exercised or schooled to the rein. We saw two mares being taken in to be serviced by stallions though I thought it prudent not to allow Freddy to watch. In any event he was more interested in seeing and petting the drayhorse colts which had grown rapidly even since we had seen them last when Robin and I had named them.
Mr Jarvis had seen us arrive and we were invited into the office building where the usual hot posset was being brewed on the open fire and eagerly drunk as the wind was quite cold outside. Freddy was intrigued with all the letters and ledgers which were being prepared or written in by the four clerks including both young Billy Temple and Georgie Mead, looking most industrious.
Mr Temple came through from his office. He smiled when he saw us. "There is a deal of work to do here. Have you come to seek positions?"
Although there was an obvious difference in station Mr Temple, like Mr Mead, was such a valued servant and treated all who appeared in the office as equals. I had heard Mr Temple tell one rather overbearing gentleman that a single signature was not sufficient when there were three promissory notes to be signed. There was no fawning on his part just a straightforward insistence that the business should be done correctly. At the time I saw my father nodding and smiling at that interaction.
I left Branscombe and Freddy to make their denials of needing a post as a scrivener or accounting clerk and went in search of Mr Jarvis. He was inside one of the barns supervising the repair and repainting of a rather handsome coach.
"Ah, Master Tom, I expect you need to know about tomorrow. All is arranged for the fly to leave by eight thirty. Young Peters will drive and there is no need for another as he knows the way. If there is a mishap, God forbid, you are most competent with the reins." Again, no bowing and scraping to the owner's son. I nodded in reply. He smiled and went on "I would suggest you do not tarry beyond four o'clock as the road in places is slow and you do not want to travel in the dark. Is that not so?"
I thanked him and said we would be ready but I wanted to know about the coach there which I had not seen before. He said it belonged to the Westrups and it was both unfortunate and fortunate that they would not be able to attend the wedding in London. It was unfortunate for them as Mrs Westrup was expecting another child and had been advised by her physician that the journey to London and back with all the excitement as well would be too tiring. However it was fortunate for our family as we would have a second large coach which would match or even better ours. As I went out to find the others I counted up as another child would mean a tenth young Westrup!
The journey the next day to Moss Hall was quite speedy. We kept urging Peters to give the horses a touch of the whip but he took no notice of our entreaties and kept to his own pace. This served us well in any case as it must have been well before eleven when we reached the hamlet and the entrance to the drive for Moss Hall. Of course, we had stopped to relieve ourselves against a convenient hedge just before the houses were in sight so that the serving boys, if any, would not have filled chamber pots to deal with when we arrived.
I knew my father had sent a messenger the day before to forewarn the Colonel of the intended visit. His old butler, who I knew was named Larkins, was at the door ready to acknowledge us as soon as we stepped down from the fly. The usual greetings ensued with Freddy introducing both Branscombe and Robin. I had been before so I was known.
We were led into a newly painted drawing-room where a bright fire was blazing. I saw Freddy looking around and smiling as we were announced most formally. His grandfather was sitting in a high-backed leather chair with his left leg raised on a footstool. Freddy rushed to his grandfather who bent his head as Freddy kissed his cheek.
Colonel Neville was most apologetic. "I cannot rise to greet you but you are most welcome." He signalled to the butler who went out. "There will be some refreshments for you in a moment. I have asked cook to prepare a suitable luncheon later as I cannot bear to have a hungry squadron of infantry complaining of their lot." He turned to Freddy. "You must tell me all you have done and I must send thanks to Mrs Browning for keeping a watchful eye on you." He looked at me. "Is he behaving himself?"
"Sir, I do not think my mother or father have any complaints so far, but she has sent you a letter which she asked me to deliver." I took the missive from pocket and handed it to him.
The Colonel smiled. "That is most diplomatic but I have had a letter also from Pretyman who does remark there has been an improvement in his work so I do not have to calculate the number of strokes of my walkingstick he should have."
Freddy looked from his grandfather to me, wrinkled his brow, then smiled.
The Colonel indicated we should sit on a settle and two armchairs by the fire. At that moment there was a rattle as a trolley was pushed into the room by two young boys. The trolley was laden with an array of pastries and cakes and tankards.
Colonel Neville nodded at the lads who stood smartly to attention beside the trolley.
"Trooper Larkins, distribute the plates. Corporal Larkins, push the trolley closer to the guests so they may chose." The boys did as they were instructed and our plates were soon also laden. A tankard of small beer was placed for each of us on the low tables near us. The boys bowed and pushed the trolley towards the Colonel who shook his head as he obviously did not want any sustenance except for a tankard.
I noticed Freddy was smiling at the boys and the elder, the one the Colonel called Corporal Larkins, gave him a surreptitious wink. I surmised he was of an age with Freddy.
As soon as he had emptied his mouth of the large bite of the pastry he had taken Freddy addressed his grandfather. "Sir, you have enlisted two more fine fellows into your company," he said, "I see William has been promoted even above me."
His grandfather laughed. "The boys are of an age now to assist in the house and that other pair are now apprenticed. I have taken on the role of schoolmaster, too, which keeps me occupied as I cannot get out." He pointed to where a couple of thin planks had been set up and there were several words and simple sentences chalked on them. I noticed both the 'soldiers' gave wry grins at this. Colonel Neville looked across at me. "I am eternally grateful to your father, Thomas, for sending his men to patch and repair. I only wish I might ride again soon so I can visit Careby and thank him personally. I am afraid this gout incapacitates me. I don't trust physicians though that cousin of yours did give me some good liniment but it has had no effect on this." Here he lifted his stick and pointed it towards his foot.
I knew Lancelot had given my father a potion when he had a touch of gout. "Sir, I think my cousin may have something which would ease the gout. It helped my father's pain and he said it was an old remedy but he had learned more when he was in Paris and had brought the material with him from there."
The Colonel smiled. "Then, Thomas, I would be much obliged if you would speak to him on my behalf. I know your desire is to emulate him and you might learn something if whatever he has does reduce the pain."
"Sir, that I will do. I am sure he would do his utmost to help relieve the pain. My father said he could not imagine worse."
"My boy," Colonel Neville said waving his stick, "It is an affliction but I am sure that those soldiers I lost in fighting the savages in Africa in '19 suffered more. But, enough of that and my ailments." He looked at Robin and Branscombe who had finished eating but were nursing their tankards. "Drink up! I warrant that is some of the finest small beer you will taste. There is a fine beer house along the road where my tenant brews his own and keeps me well-supplied. We shall have some of his finest ale with our luncheon, is that not so Corporal Larkins?" Before the boy could answer the Colonel explained that the brewer was the lad's uncle, another Larkins, a son of the butler.
I was looking around at the walls of the room which I had remembered as being very dingy and dull on a previous visit. Now the panelling was shining and there were strange masks, skins and weapons displayed amongst the pictures hanging there.
The Colonel must have discerned my interest. He pointed to two very hideous, highly painted masks with black hairy beards with two long spears crossed below each. "Those would frighten any enemy, eh?" All of us were now looking and making faces at the fearful objects. Branscombe laughed.
"Sir, I warrant anyone would run if confronted with such a sight!" he said and waved his arms as if in panic.
"That is so, my boy, but you would not get very far." The colonel pointed with his walking stick at the crossed weapons below one. "Those are throwing spears which the natives use and they are most adept at impaling their enemies from quite a distance."
I looked at Freddy who was grinning. I was tempted to ask if Freddy could have one to take back to Ashbourne for Lawson to use against his Philistines but that would be something to mention later only in our company.
The Colonel had not finished. "The skins you see are different breeds of antelopes which the natives hunt for food and are most plentiful and roam in many hundreds. They are good hunting with a rifle, too, as well as different wild animals such as lions."
Freddy was looking around. "Grandfather, you do not have the lion skins in here."
His grandfather shook his head. "With all the damp and rot one was sadly decayed and had to be thrown away. The other is in the Library, though all the books are now gone, too. You must show your fellows that one as it was the better and when alive and prowling around had killed and eaten at least two of the natives in their village."
We all squirmed at that but nodded at Freddy as this to boys was something too exciting to miss. Freddy stood and as the Colonel instructed his troops to take the trolley away we followed him into the passageway and entered another room with empty shelves but a good fire burning. 'Corporal' Larkins had followed us. "Sirs," he said, "May I say that the fires in all the rooms are lit each day to keep the house dry." He pointed to the empty shelves. "No books remain as all were wet and the carpenters have remade the shelves which had rotted."
Freddy looked around. "This room was most damp and water dripped through there." He pointed to the ceiling which was now complete and pargetted most handsomely. "But here is Leo!" He now pointed to the skin, without a head, which was draped over a settle. There was part of the mane and the rest of the fur was a mixture of gold and brown. It must have been most handsome but I thought it had seen better days. However, Freddy was very proud to show us and pointed to the hole where his grandfather's bullet had entered the side.
"Grandfather said it was most fierce and was ready to attack but he had it with one shot and all the natives were very happy." He smiled and dropped his voice. "Grandfather told me one day when he was happy himself..." He mimed drinking. "...that the chief said he could have as many wives as he wanted but he had to refuse as Grandmama was here in England."
Branscombe laughed. "That is a good tale." He looked around where the 'Corporal' was standing. "Are you to become a soldier?"
The lad smiled and bowed his head. "I do not think so, sir, though two of my uncles were enlisted and have a pension now. My father says it is a hard life and I will find a trade here."
We were then escorted up the stairs where Freddy was quite astounded as all the walls were now repaired and dry. Young Larkins explained that there had been many loose tiles on the roof and the leads had become worn and did not allow the rain to run away. All was now renewed and no water had entered even after the last rainstorm. I knew my father would be most pleased when I reported back.
The 'Corporal' left when we came downstairs again. Freddy said he would show us the stables as he wanted to see the old pony he rode when he attended the Boxing Day Hunt. Our fly was being cleaned and polished by two stable boys under Peters' direction. They were all laughing together but fell silent as we entered. The lads continued their task as Peters led us around the large but almost uninhabited stable. There were but four horses quartered, two hunters, a rather fine draughthorse and the old pony. I thought this showed the Colonel's lack of ready money to a sharp extent.
Peters looked to see the boys were far enough away not to overhear. He was most trenchant and as I knew him well he was not being forward in front of the Master's son. "It is a wonder from what those lads have told me," he said, mainly in my hearing as the other three were petting the horses, but he lowered his voice even further. "The Colonel is very respected but they fear he is almost bankrupt. Your father has carried the burden of the repairs which he could not afford. Although the farms are let the rents are low and the land is poor. There is a mill by the small river but it is idle as the mill-wheel needs repair. There is a need for a good mill here which would increase his income greatly."
"Should I mention this to my father?" I asked, "We have two mills and they are fully occupied and are in good repair."
Peters nodded. "If you did and repairs were made then it would bring more employment as well for these boys say as soon as they are eighteen they are leaving to find a position in a town." He shook his head. "I have heard say there are many likewise in the villages round about. Big families and no work."
I was not aware of such concerns. It would seem that Careby village had many in employment. There were a few feckless ones who idled their time away and only sought a post when the family was near starving but the great majority were good, honest workers.
"I will talk to my father when we return. He is a friend of the Colonel and would be unhappy if there was a disaster, I am sure. In any case I have to consult my cousin about the Colonel's health and he is of an enquiring mechanical mind and could look at the mill if he visited the Colonel."
Peters smiled. "Thank you, Master Tom, I would be unhappy to see such good lads and their kin suffer. They are Mr Larkins's grandsons, too. I think there are many Larkins here and George that elder boy here says they have been around for generations and all attend the Chapel."
I was puzzled. "Is there no church here?" I asked.
Peters shook his head. "No, but there is a meeting house for the Methodists on land given by a previous owner on the road away from here. I have heard the church was made ruinous many years ago and it lies in a field beyond the river where I have seen the stones and part of a tower."
I smiled at him. "You have a great knowledge of your surroundings."
He laughed. "Master Tom, I came to Careby as a lad of ten not knowing where I was. I have been employed as a groom and now as a coachman and I have travelled and learned. Our countryside is diverse and all is interesting to any who wish to learn."
The others joined us and Branscombe said his stomach was rumbling though I had noted he had scoffed at least two pastries and three small tartlets. Another growing boy like George Lascelles!
We made our way back to the house and Freddy left us to visit the kitchen while we three watered the bushes after that tankard of good small beer. The two boys were waiting for us. They said the Colonel was now seated in the dining room and would we care to join him though luncheon would not be served for half an hour. That half hour was spent in imbibing a surprisingly good ale and a spirited conversation with the Colonel who said he relished the company of young people and was so sorry he would not be able to attend the Easter Saturday Hunt. At one point he told Freddy to open a cabinet in the corner of the dining room where a collection of foxes' brushes, presentation whips and stirrup cups was kept.
He was in a most affable mood. "Lookee here," he said, "There are four good silver cups at the front. One each for you. You may choose." We looked at each other. These would be valuable acquisitions. I wondered if we should refuse as these could be easily rendered into cash as I had seen similar in a jeweller's window when in London and those were priced from fifteen to twenty pounds. These were old and probably more valuable as father had shown me the hallmarks on two he kept locked away in his room. He must have discerned not only my hesitancy but that of the others, too. He pointed at the four at the front. "Master Tom, do me the honour and present your fellows with their reward for visiting an old curmudgeon such as me!"
I stood and picked out the four nearest and gave them around. Freddy could not contain himself. He ran round the table to his grandfather and put his arms round his neck. "I shall treasure this for ever," he said and kissed his grandfather on the cheek. The other of us murmured our thanks and placed the cups on the table in front of us. This seemed to the signal for the entry of Mr Larkins the butler and the two young troopers. A serving hatch was opened and an array of platters and tureens were ready.
We were served first with a thick soup with hunks of newly baked bread. This was followed by slices of lamb with roasted potatoes and though replete by then a delicious fruit tart appeared with cream to be poured on it. It was a truly sumptuous luncheon and was great credit to the cook and her helpers. The Colonel said he did not dine like this every day but Mrs Carmody relished the opportunity to show her skills. "...Of course," he said with a smile, "she is Mr Larkins' sister." Her great-nephews were grinning as he said this and Mr Larkins stood stiff but looked proud.
We did not leave the table after the meal as the Colonel said his foot was painful if he moved too much. He told us more about his travels in Africa which kept us enthralled as he was a good story teller. All too soon it was time to depart and as the Colonel bade me farewell he said I was to tell my mother to equip the boy with all he needed and he would send a promissory note for any cost. Poor Freddy burst into tears as he said goodbye as his grandfather was unwell. Good-hearted Branscombe held the boy close as we climbed into the fly and set off home. I had noted that the Colonel had slipped a couple of sovereigns into Freddy's pocket as he said goodbye. A most generous and kind-hearted man.
We had much to discuss on the journey which seemed to take no time though it was getting dark for the last mile or so. I thanked Peters as we left him and the fly by the side door of the Hall. He smiled and said he was most happy with being in a position with such a family as ours.
We were chilly after the journey so repaired to the Library after using the pots in the cupboard in the hallway. We were glad of the blazing fire in the grate and Branscombe was soon rubbing his hands in front of it and saying what a good day he had had. Freddy was quiet. I could see he missed his grandfather but he soon cheered up when I said how he could tell even more to Lawson and the others especially that if you killed a fierce lion you could be rewarded with many wives.
"We would have to put soot on Pilbrow and Barnstable to blacken them and they could be the head wives," he said with a laugh. He was smiling as he continued, "I should have asked grandfather for one of those proper spears, but I prefer to have this." He held up the stirrup cup which had not left his hands all through the journey and was now being clutched. I was laughing inside as poor Pilbrow and Barnstable would alternate now as circumcised males and blackened females, as well as being a variety of hunted animals.
We all agreed how fortunate we had been with the gifts and as we examined our own cups so my father came in. "What is this?" he bellowed making poor Freddy jump, "Boys drinking at this time in the afternoon?"
Branscombe was ready and explained the generous gifts to us. Father then listened as I told of the efficacy of the repairs but that I had heard also there was want of repairs to the local mill on which Lancelot could give an opinion. His response was immediate. "It will be done," he said and that was that. I said about the Colonel's gout and that Lancelot needed to be consulted on that matter as well. I had remembered on the journey back that the remedy used an extract from the meadow saffron and was called colchicine. My father smiled as I said the name.
"My boy, you must make sure Lancelot sees both the mill and the Colonel. He can prescribe for both!"
I could see he was somewhat perturbed about the generosity of giving us the four cups. He shook his head. "The Colonel is a most generous man. He has made it his business to give each maid or man when they wed there a good start for their household. He has two neighbours who I will not mention who thinks he is an old fool but they are the ones who grumble and grouse as they do not get the respect from their tenantry he does and that means a deal for such as he."
He looked at Freddy who was still examining his cup. "You did not know your grandmother, eh?" Freddy looked up and shook his head. "She was also a most kind lady," my father continued, "She was unwell and was recommended to take a cure at Bath but did not return. It was only the kindness of your grandmama's sister which revived your grandfather as he had only recently retired from his command and returned to England." My father nodded. "I remember now. Your father had only lately been ordained and presented to his living and was unable to return to live at Moss Hall as he was also newly married. I say no more but your grandfather has survived and he has good friends."
None more than you, I thought to myself. I hoped I would be a good friend to his grandson as he needed support and companionship.
I held up my cup. "Would I be allowed to have this filled on Saturday before the Hunt as it is empty now?"
"Wretch!" my father said and laughed. "I will make a decision later."
"Is there peace?" I asked as father seemed to be in such a good humour. He acknowledged my rather impertinent enquiry with a smile.
"My boy, there is no hint of war. Guests will be welcome for the Dinner here but as all the rooms above are in disarray there is unfortunately no accommodation for those who have to travel." He laughed. "Sir Montgomery and all will be at the Squire's for beds even though I hear the dust is inches thick..." He clapped his hand to his mouth. "...That is to be forgot!"
Robin tittered. We had heard many tales of the dishevelment in the Manor as the Matthews kept few rooms occupied. "Perhaps we might offer to set a few traps for the mice I hear inhabit numerous rooms there. It would be unfortunate for Sir Montgomery to find a nest in that horn of his when he blows it," Robin said with quite a straight face now.
My father guffawed. "Even more if they nibble his nightcap while he sleeps though even that would not disturb his slumber!"
I knew my father was referring to his consumption of wine and port which also showed in his florid complexion. I did not dare ask if Mr Gowring was to be accompanied.
We were disturbed then by Benjy and Eamonn who came to the door pushing the tea trolley. Father rubbed his hands. "Good, about time you varmints! I need a dish of tea and I'll have that large pastry on top before these scoundrels get their hands out begging to be fed!"
Branscombe had remained silent all this time and now was too bemused to say anything. I nudged him as we followed my father, who was handed a plate, and waited while two pastries were placed on it for him while we stood back respectfully. "There must be at least two hours before dinner," I whispered loudly, "I think it is one pastry for each hour's wait. Are there sufficient for us?"
"I heard that, boy!" my father said. "You can wait your turn and allow guests and your nephew to be served and see what crumbs might be left." He turned and selected the larger pastry on his plate and took a good bite. As he chewed he looked at me and winked as Branscombe allowed Freddy and then Robin to precede him. I waited for a comment but I think he knew his manner rather disconcerted Cedric who, again, was showing his concern for others.
He did comment. "So, my boy," he said addressing Cedric who had turned and was facing him, "In ten days time we shall be related, though only by marriage. Do you think an illustrious naval family will be willing to tolerate a rabble of country hobbledehoys?"
Branscombe was more ready than I thought able. "Sir, I tolerate your grandson direct and your son by association so the rest should not be too burdensome at least to my sensibilities. It is my poor sister who arouses most concern..."
Both he and my father burst into laughter. I knew Cedric was now part of our family even before the marriage!
To be continued:
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Thanks. Joel.