Tom Browning's Schooldays
By
Joel
Chapter SeventyEight
Naturally, such an exchange could only lead to merriment. Before anything else Torquil then explained he had come directly from the Queen's Palace where he had been in attendance on the Prince as Albert had to meet the Duc de Broglie who was in residence. The Queen was worried about her son who had a chill so her husband had to do her duty. I think we were all impressed with Torquil's involvement with such high matters of State.
He merely smirked and said all he had to do was stand still and look handsome. This set us off giggling again. He was handsome. He was my brother! He turned to George who was smiling broadly. Torquil dipped his head. "Sir, excuse my clumsiness." Of course, George was a Viscount's son and outranked all of us in station. Torquil was showing due deference. I knew George had met Torquil at his brother's wedding to Rosamund.
"Colonel Browning, I am plain George to that young brother of yours and to your son, so may I be plain George to you?"
Torquil bowed his head and Robin and I giggled once more. I did not dare make any quip. "As I know Geoffrey is your brother so George you can be!" my brother said and put out a hand which was shaken vigorously by a laughing George.
Torquil turned to me. "You, child, can be my batman. Help me divest myself of this encumbrance!"
Child! Calling me that in front of George and Robin! I had been at the receiving end of many a jest and trick at the hands of my elder brothers but always with love and amusement on each of our parts. He must have seen my hurt look. He put out a hand and laid it on my shoulder. He shook his head.
"Tom, I did not intend to demean you. I am sorry for you are no longer a young baby brother to be teased." He did manage to look forlorn. What could I do but smile at him.
"And you are that big brother who still needs Nanny to help you undress!" I stepped forward as he started laughing. I could see there were at least two belts to unclasp to release the scabbard. I got no further for I got hugged. While this was happening George and Robin in fact managed to remove the belts and sword. Robin was holding up the scabbard. Torquil let me go and turned to Robin and with a great laugh enveloped his son in his arms.
There was a muffled cry from Robin as he almost dropped the scabbard but George very deftly took it from him. I grinned at George who was staring in some bewilderment at the tangle of belts attached to the scabbard.
"I await the day when you are arrayed in such splendour!" I said.
"I should need more than a Nanny I am sure," he averred as Torquil let go of his son.
"Come along to the Library." Torquil was in charge. "I wish to hear everything." He took the scabbard and belts from George.
We followed him and were soon ensconced in easy chairs. Between us we related all we could remember of the past few days. Torquil sat silently as the tale unfolded. From looking most concerned he did move to a smile when Robin told him of our meeting with the Prime Minister.
"You have been very brave," was his only comment when we finished. He sat for a moment as if contemplating what he had just heard. "Terence would not tell me anything this morning but that you had had an adventure. I could not ask him more because of my duties." He looked at George. "Be assured my Uncle Digby will make sure your family name is not besmirched. He has aided two of my friends in freeing them from certain entanglements which would have caused great problems for them and their careers." He shook his head. "Nothing to match what you have told me, however." We could hear that others were arriving and being escorted to the lower drawing room. "George, I am told you wish to join the Regiment. Please accept my invitation to visit the barracks at your convenience." He smiled. "My Uncle William will be here this evening as well. Have no fear for he also knows of your desire."
As Torquil stood so did we. I had not had opportunity to ask about Elizabeth nor the babe, my new and only niece. I hoped he did not take this to be remiss of me. He led the way out and we followed him to be greeted by the sight of a phalanx of green and gold. Mr Purrett was in full livery and was standing behind my Uncle Digby's wheeled chair. He had my Uncle Billy and Lady Cornwallis - I mean Lady Browning as she now was - beside him and a rather solemn Francis Clifford whose features brightened when he saw us. Each of them was holding a flute of champagne. Other liveried figures were distributing flutes to other guests. I saw Terence standing with Captain and Mrs Isabella Bemrose. The Duchess was being attended to by Jabez who had her ear trumpet in one hand and her flute of champagne in the other as she searched in her even more voluminous reticule. We were handed our own flutes by Paolo and Mehmet while at that moment my sister and her husband came in accompanied by the twins. They spotted us and rushed to greet Uncle Tom and Uncle Robin as they called us. There was quite a cacophony of noise with all talking at once.
Antonio and Carlo appeared in miniature livery suits and bearing platters of small tasty pastries. I wondered who was with the boys upstairs. The last to appear was the old naval Captain.
I counted up that there would be eighteen seated with the two youngsters included. Did my sister know of the rescued boys? Hatty did seem rather bemused when she spotted Robin and me. I greeted her and her husband and as the boys were chatting animatedly with Robin and looking up at a smiling George I moved to the side of the room with them. I saw Francis Clifford come to join the boys. The Reverend James then said he had received a short letter from Uncle Digby this morning with a few details which he had shared with Hatty. He said he would ask nothing more this evening but if there was anything he could do we only had to ask. My sister said the letter indicated we had rescued three boys, where were they now? I quickly told them one was Timmy from Careby and the other two were country boys who had fallen on hard times and all were upstairs. I said there was much to tell but not this evening. I could say no more as Terence and Torquil joined us and my sister was kissed by her other two brothers. It was then I heard that Elizabeth and Amelia were both well. I was commanded to visit them tomorrow and I was nudged by Terence. "Uncle Tom," he mouthed.
'Captain' Topping in his other disguise as a liveried servant came to the door and nodded to my Aunt Fanny who had also gone to help the Duchess unravel whatever she had in her reticule. My aunt smiled at him and within moments the gong sounded. My Uncle Digby was wheeled out first and Peter and Philemon went over to the Duchess to escort her to the dining-room. Robin bowed his head to Lady Browning while Francis Clifford did his duty and escorted my Aunt Fanny. I took the arm of Isabella Bemrose and George my sister Hatty Canning. A procession of lonely males followed us and I received another nudge from my brother as I stood until Isabella was seated. Captain Browning would have to be reprimanded in some way for his unruly behaviour!
There was no mention of the events of the past days as the fine array of courses was presented. The only comment came from Isabella who said she had been visiting her sister and niece on Sunday afternoon and had noted the busyness of the street, with the number of coaches and carriages which were arriving and leaving. Her own coachman had difficulty in drawing up and at least one of the larger coaches had an ornate coat of arms on its door. No one remarked on this and conversation turned to a play which was drawing the crowds. Though I had thought the Duchess a trifle deaf she, nonetheless, heard that conversation from the other side of the table. She launched into a most entertaining retelling of the play's plot and as my New Aunt - for so I thought of her as that - had also attended a performance she joined in, saying the audience had been most amused when one of the actors had walked unknowingly into a chair which should not have been there and fell flat on his face. This set the scene for tales of other theatrical disasters witnessed over the years. I looked at Robin who grinned at me as we could have told of young Lawson's apple slipping during our final rehearsal and ending up as a large lump near the knee of his tight hose until he rescued it and slid it back up into its rightful position. It was sheer luck only Robin and I had noted its descent and replacement. Robin did suggest he wrapped it in a handkerchief which could be secured with a pin to his drawers. This, of course, made the bulge even larger to his great delight! He was even mor delighted when we told him that was called a codpiece.
I had noted that after the second course Jabez took Peter and Philemon away. As they passed behind me I heard him whisper there was a surprise for them upstairs. I surmised they would be meeting the boys. I saw that Antonio and Carlo had also disappeared, no doubt already to be with them.
Convention was again put aside as the ladies did not retire as the last covers were removed but remained and took a glass of sweet wine while port was served to the gentlemen, including us. It was also noticeable that no pipes or cheroots were lit in deference to my Uncle Digby's health, for he remained in a chair at the table. Boxes of snuff were circulated and each of us took a pinch. I did not sneeze this time and experienced that strange tingle in my nostrils. There was an announcement that George wished to join the Regiment which seemed to satisfy the curiosity of the Duchess and the naval captain of our presence. As we rose to take each other's leave I saw Uncle Billy in conversation with George who was shaken by the hand as my Uncle bade him farewell. I did have a moment with Francis before he followed my Uncle Billy and Lady Mary. He said we would be departing for Careby on Wednesday. He was looking forward to the visit. Wednesday? I could say nothing. So far, no plans of our travel back home had been given us. It would mean we would arrive back on Good Friday if all went well and we would then have fourteen or so days before Ashbourne loomed. Oh yes, and Harrow for Francis.
I went with my sister to the front door and waited until Jabez and James Canning appeared each carrying a very tired-looking boy. "Mama," I heard one of them say, "May we have boys as well?"
Mehmet was with the Duchess and I saw him hand the usual small package to her which was dropped into her reticule. He looked immense against her frail-seeming figure as he handed her down the steps and to her carriage. He received the usual sweet smile and something was pressed into his hand as he bowed his head towards her.
We said goodnight to all who were leaving and I managed to give Terence a retaliatory shove as he turned away from me at the top of the steps. He did not stumble as I had hoped, for it was evident he was expecting something of that sort to happen. "Be prepared," he whispered as he went down to join Captain Bemrose and Isabella in their carriage. I saw he had Caleb Bottom as his batman and he acknowledged me with a smile.
Torquil was the last to leave. He just had a few steps to walk along the road but had Mr Purrett by his side. He shook us each by the hand. He smiled at George. "I think the Colonel-in-Chief is impressed," he averred. "He said he had received a letter from my Uncle Digby." As the Colonel-in-Chief was my uncle also I would have expected him to have been told something of our exploits but, other than the usual smile and good-natured greeting, Uncle Billy had said nothing.
Jabez and Mehmet accompanied us up the stairs. We were well-fed and tired and George was ecstatic. Each of the four officers in the Regiment who had been present had more or less said he was sure of being commissioned, none more so than Uncle Billy who had told him he would be writing to his father. Lord Harford would be receiving a deal of correspondence from London over the next few days!
With all that had been happening since we started our eventful journey from Careby there was one thing which had been missing. I had till now had no desire to shed my seed. But now that it seemed all our cares were over that insistent urge was again upon me. I had not had opportunity to ask Robin if he had taken pleasure since Careby. Oh, there would be three again in the bed and even as I was shedding my clothes I was close to shedding... I saw that the other two were engaged in chatting to Jabez and Mehmet who were brushing and folding their tailcoats and trousers as they discarded them. I would be first in the closet! Naked and clutching my nightshirt I shut myself in. My unruly pizzle was beginning to harden but I did manage to piss. After that it did not require many strokes before my cannon fired its salvo. I was breathing heavily as I dropped the soft paper which had caught my grapeshot into the pan. The water flushed that evidence away as I pulled the nightshirt over my head. My breathing had subsided but I was no doubt rather red in the face.
As I let myself out the other two had not missed me. George was laughing over some quip he must have made to Jabez who was standing by him; Robin was being helped to don his nightshirt by Mehmet. After that little exertion and the dinner, of course, I was ready for bed. I climbed in on the side I was used to and yawned. The others were quiet as they bade goodnight to Jabez and Mehmet and both used the water closet quickly. I was nearly asleep when they, too, climbed into bed and one of them must have extinguished the gas lamps. I realised Robin was next to me with George on the outside. They must have thought I was already asleep as neither spoke to me. I was in an almost comatose state when I became aware of slight movements beside me. There was heavy breathing from both my bed companions. Both were taking care of the need I had also quelled just a few moments ago. I kept still and allowed my breathing to be slow and steady. There were sharp intakes of breath, first from Robin beside me then from George, as that urgent release came. They must have come to bed supplied with soft paper as I heard a quiet whisper from George telling Robin to pass him his paper and he would drop it on the floor. No doubt it would be well- soaked if they both had built up the reservoir I had let loose!
I was awake early, even before the arrival of our hot water. I slid out of bed and went in the semi-darkness round the other side and spied the discarded lump of paper. I thought I had better not try to play a jape on the still-sleeping pair with it in case it was not Jabez who came to wake them. I needed the water closet so being good-natured I deposited the still- damp mess before I let my water flow. Seeing the paper and thinking of my companions and our efforts the night before set me aflame and my juices soon spurted once more. I sat and eased myself and then flushed all away.
It was still early for I heard the church clock chime six as I rejoined the others and dozed again. It did not seem long but the clock was striking seven as the door was opened and Jabez and two of the grooms came clattering in carrying the usual pitchers of hot water. They were followed by Mehmet bearing clean shirts, undergarments and stockings. I roused myself and sat up. I was sure Jabez made a noisy entrance on purpose because it had the desired effect and a grunting, bleary-eyed George protested loudly. He did not swear greatly, for I was sure Cedric Branscombe would have done so, but he consigned Jabez and his minions to the fires of Hell and Damnation for spoiling a most wonderful dream. He must have remembered the depositing of the paper during the night and also slid out of the bed, but most carefully. I wondered the content of his dream as his nightshirt betrayed a certain excitement on his part. Or, at least, on a part of him! It was noted by the grooms who, as they departed, had broad smiles and were nudging each other. As they were no more than our age they would have good experience of such arousal and would, no doubt, have a tale to tell their fellows. It was fortuitous I had removed the still-sticky mass from the floor for it would have been noticeable and would have provided more material for gossip for, no matter what station they might be, lads are lads!
After George had completed his tirade he did look somewhat puzzled. I had vacated the bed again and was standing by the bowls on the side table so saw him looking on the floor and even lifting the draped coverlet. Some ghoulie or ghostie must have entered the room during the night and spirited the evidence away, or had it only been some dream of pleasure? He shrugged his shoulders and came over to where Jabez was filling his bowl with hot water.
I had already removed my nightshirt so was naked. George did the same and I noted he was no longer aroused. The puzzlement must have been enough to diminish his need. He was quiet now and we washed and dried ourselves in silence. From the look on his face Robin had not been pleased with all the commotion. He crawled from the haven of the bed and joined us. He was not abashed as he discarded his nightshirt and displayed that morning excitement we all experienced most frequently. I saw George glance at the more than boyish length which, as Robin washed, softened and drooped.
Mehmet had been busy laying out our clothing while Jabez had handed us our towels. I knew Jabez was having a deal of difficulty in not sniggering outright at the sight of two usually quite voluble boys silently making sure bellies especially were well-washed while a third was grinning to himself.
As we finished and Mehmet started to hand us vests, shirts, underclouts and so on Jabez cleared his throat. "Gentlemen, may I be permitted to inform you of matters for today and tomorrow." I stared at him. How formal! We continued dressing as George put his hands up and flapped his ears to signify Jabez should continue. Jabez's lip curled a little in response to that gesture. "First, the boys and Timmy will be taken to the tailor and outfitter all at the expense of Her Majesty's government..." He got no further for we all laughed and George shouted 'Hear! Hear!'. Jabez bowed his head. "Second, a visit to the barracks will take place at nine thirty for those interested in military matters or not." George was smiling most contentedly at that. "Thirdly, Mrs Torquil Browning and Miss Browning will receive callers at twelve thirty and luncheon will take place at the Browning residence during that visit." It was my turn to smile. Not only for the prospect of luncheon but I would be seeing my sister-in-law and my niece! Jabez then made a show of counting on his fingers and not knowing how many things he had numbered. "Fourthly, Master Philip Goodhew and Master John Harrison have been commanded to attend at four o'clock precisely. Finally, the return to Careby will begin at nine o'clock tomorrow morning." He looked at his hand again. "I have forgotten. Breakfast will be served as soon as you wish for the carriage will leave at nine o'clock." Mehmet, as usual, was not approving of Jabez's seeming insolence but he did smile when I looked at him and raised my eyebrows while grinning. George did not say anything though the reference to Philip and the Harrison boy must have puzzled him. I surmised he was much more interested in either the visit to the barracks or the prospect of lunch! And breakfast now!
In the breakfast room Paolo was standing by the serving dishes and pointed to a folded newssheet on the table. He said Mr Topping had put it there for us to read. There was a sensational headline which stood out in large black type.
DEVASTATION AT BANKSIDE
George picked the newssheet up and read aloud what appeared under it:
'It is reported that an abandoned warehouse on the quay has been
destroyed, it is thought by the discharge of a quantity of gunpowder.
We have no information of the possible perpetrators though activity
of a sinister nature had been noted over the past few weeks with cries
and shouts around the already derelict structure. A respectable witness
said several men of a seemingly foreign nature had been seen in the
vicinity shortly before the occasion of the collapse of the building
though none remained after. One opinion is that wild beasts may also
have been kept in captivity there at some time as several cages were
lately removed though no animals or carcases were evident.'
He breathed out heavily as he finished reading. "I feared there might be more." He shook his head. "We must be thankful for small mercies." He put the newssheet down and Robin peered at it.
"There is little truth in it. Gunpowder, yes, but what quantity? That old crone had thought it to be haunted and said she heard cries. Would we be among those seemingly foreign men, or were they the captors?" He did smile then. "Perhaps in time to come we might show Timmy and the boys their description." He held George's arm. "I am sure that account will satisfy any curious person who may have heard rumours."
The removal of a body and the debris strewn around was not alluded to. I surmised the respectable witness would have been either Mr Topping or Mr Pemberton and whosoever wrote the paragraph had to be satisfied with the meagre information. It was also interesting that no mention had been made of the murdered boy found off the quay some days earlier. No connection had been made between the two events.
Breakfast was soon over and we had to ready ourselves for the visit to the barracks. We looked again like the young gentlemen we were in our elegant suits with dark capes and our new top hats as we entered the Mews. Uncle Digby's finest coach was there, newly polished, with four of the greys harnessed and Mr Churcher with Jacobson on the box. Only the best! Mr Topping was to accompany us. He said we would go through Curzon Street to Park Lane and turn into Piccadilly to reach Hyde Park Corner thence down Constitution Hill to drive along the front of the Palace to reach the barracks through a back entrance in York Street.
It was on that journey that Mr Topping revealed he had held a commission in a field regiment but had joined my uncle's entourage, as he called it, on the recommendation of his Colonel. George was fascinated with his story as he wanted to know if he felt being a servant was demeaning.
"Sir, it is only one part of my employment," he said with a laugh. "It is better than even being on the stage. I have played a number of roles over the ten years I have been with Sir Digby and being a liveried servant is somewhat the easiest." He shook his head. "I cannot say what enterprises I have been engaged in but you have seen one such just the last few days."
"Disguise would seem an important detail, for we have seen you as three characters in this short time," said George. "A servant, a vagrant almost and the gentleman you really are. A play actor in more ways than one."
Mr Topping smiled. "Remember you have also played a part in disguise." Both Robin and I laughed at this because we had, too. "When you become a soldier of Her Majesty that will also be a form of disguise. You will show a public face in your uniform but beneath you will be that person you always have been and will be. That is something to remember for it is all too easy to allow that disguise to take over and it can almost destroy one's character."
George was nodding. "Sir, that is so true. My father has an acquaintance who even though retired many years still parades each day in an old outdated uniform much to the amusement and also the disgust of most of the County. My father tolerates him as he is a good shot but does not take kindly to his boasts and swaggering manner."
"I have met many like that," Mr Topping said, "There is almost a blindness which prevents them seeing that they are no more than a caricature."
This was something I had not thought about but even amongst schoolfellows there were some who showed evidence of such behaviour especially some of the braggarts in Pratt's House. I could not imagine George to be like that.
Part of this journey would be new to me. I had not before been driven past the Royal Palace and we joshed George that he would be on duty there quite soon. He did look a little apprehensive then for we were delayed somewhat by a troop of mounted soldiers who were returning to Knightsbridge from guard duties at the Palace and took precedence over a carriage full of mere civilians. The delay was not too long for we were able to drive through the gates to the barrack square some minutes before we were due. We were directed towards a stable where we disembarked. I noted that Mr Topping remained in the carriage.
My brother Terence was waiting in the company of a senior officer to whom we were introduced. He was a full Colonel and seemed to be quite impressed by George's bearing and sturdy figure. Of course, he knew George's brother Geoffrey who was busy with his troop at the barracks near Canterbury. I was next in line and the Colonel asked if I intended joining the regiment in company with my brothers and my uncle. It was difficult to find a polite response but I said I had set my path towards being a physician. He smiled and said he had heard that from my brother and I could always have a place as surgeon to the Regiment. Robin was not introduced as Torquil's son but just as Master Goodhew. He was not asked what his desires might be for at that moment a small mounted troop with lances came from behind the stables and our attention was drawn to them.
The Colonel explained there were a dozen riders and this troop was newly-formed with recruits who had been in the Regiment barely two months. We heard that there were many young men, especially from good farming stock, desirous of a place because of the poor living now to be had from the land. There was need, therefore, for more officers for this Regiment and others, too, were expanding. He was adamant that only gentlemen recommended by serving officers would be allowed to buy the required commission to join the Regiment. He brushed his moustaches then and smiled. He wished us well and strode off.
Terence turned to George. "You have been weighed in the balances and not found wanting. Colonel Johnson would have given you short shrift otherwise." The pair grinned at each other.
George bowed his head. "Captain Browning, it is my greatest desire to join you and my brother. I will need careful training but when I set my mind to a task I try to succeed as I hope that young brother of yours will confirm."
I could not belittle George by some quip about Latin declensions but could only agree. Even when he found the going hard in his schoolwork he made every effort to overcome the hurdles.
"George, you will be in command as soon as you have your commission," I said. I could not resist it. "You have shown your mastery already for I am commanded each day at Ashbourne..." I did not finish for again we were distracted. This time by two pairs of heavy horses drawing large cannon urged on by running soldiers who did manage a salute as they passed an officer.
As they went by with a great clatter over the cobbles Terence explained they were from an artillery regiment and were preparing for a big parade in Hyde Park to commemorate a royal birthday next week. He wasn't sure whose birthday but the gunners would have plenty of beer after to clear their throats of the smoke from the gunpowder. He suggested we might need a little sustenance ourselves this morning as well but we must see the stables first.
If I thought our stables were busy these were busier still. Each of the troopers not on duty was tending to his mount under the eagle eyes of sergeants and corporals who were checking manes, tails, coats and all the harness which was either being fitted or was being polished assiduously by a number of young lads. We were told these were bandboys who played the fifes and would be enrolled as troopers once they were grown or were of a proper age. Terence had a cheery word with them and I could see he was respected by all for his interest.
Near the stables was the farrier's yard and there we met Amos Barker. He was busy shoeing a fine mount so didn't see us as we approached. When he looked up his eyes opened wide in surprise and he doffed the leather cap he was wearing. We greeted him and had to tell George this was another from Careby and he would meet his brothers on our return there. We asked about Abel and were told he had been sent to Canterbury to be responsible for the regimental office there.
As we left him George said it seemed that Careby supplied most of the personnel of the Regiment. He had seen Caleb Bottom attending on Terence the night before and been told he was Jabez's brother. "Only the best for us," Terence said, "And Careby has the finest!" He did stop and look at George. "And Garthorpe of course!" They grinned at each other again.
We watched from a raised dais as troopers rehearsed manoeuvres of various kinds which interested George much more than us though we could appreciate the precision and proficiency of the riders. Terence was explaining to him the names of the particular movements which would be essential if ever in battle. There was a display of riding with lances and another where the use of sabres was practised. Robin asked about riding into battle if faced with cannon such as we had seen. "That is all part of being a soldier," Terence said, "You ride towards your adversary even though your life is in danger. There are not only cannon but rifles and pistols to face but we rely on our speed and dexterity with sword and lance. God preserve us we do not have to go to battle but we must be prepared." He smiled at me as he said that. "Be prepared," I thought.
As we walked towards the Officers' Mess George thanked Terence for his time and also for all he had shown us. In the Mess we must have been expected for Captain Bemrose was there with two other officers and they indicated we should be seated with them. Uniformed waiters then brought us cups and plates and it was then the first time either Robin or George had sampled coffee which they were told was a favourite beverage in gentlemen's clubs and the coffee houses in the City of London. I had tasted it on a previous visit to London and was pleased for I had enjoyed it then. George was rather silent at first but relaxed for he found Captain Bemrose was familiar with his part of northern England and was related to the Radcliffe family. As it is with the gentry the other two officers also found connections, perhaps somewhat remote, between families or estates. We knew we should not tarry too long for we had to return to Charles Street. It was then that my brother Torquil came in and as a Lieutenant Colonel he was greeted with due deference, even by two Majors who were older than him and sitting separately from us.
After greeting George he turned to me. "Well, brother, have you decided a soldier's life is for you instead of doling out potions for sneezes and bellyaches..." He did not wait for me to reply but turned to Robin who was eyeing him quizzically as he was in a plainer uniform than the night before. "And you, my Robin, a place in the Regiment?"
"Thank you, sir, but no. I would rather be like Archimedes and think of other ways of defeating one's enemies."
Torquil laughed and it was George's turn to look quizzical. "He placed curved mirrors to set fire to the sails of the enemy ships, is that not so?" Torquil asked and laughed again. " It is one of the few things which excited me at Ashbourne for Mr Ridley told us that tale. Parfitt said it was too good to be true but to try the power of the sun's rays Collinson set fire to Pullen's britches with a lens for he had no curved mirror. Of course, Pullen was asleep after a rather heavy luncheon of small beer and brandy."
George smiled at that and I saw Captain Bemrose grin at the telling. It was my experience that Pullen and his tankard were seldom separated other than when he slept or was applying his cane to a pupil's arsecheeks!
"Pullen is no more at Ashbourne," George said which caused Torquil to stare. "He is in an almshouse and we have a new Usher who neither drinks nor beats pupils unfairly." I had not heard George make a judgement on Sharpin before. I knew he approved of him for I had seen him give him the time of day if he was in his cubby hole and pass him a coin with a smile. With Pullen the passage of a coin had been to prevent unjust punishment to any in his view in our House.
Torquil shook his head. "That wretch caused many of us schoolfellows sleepless nights after he had reddened our backsides. I do confess to being in his firing line on many an occasion deservedly but at other times I was, perhaps, the nearest." Oh, Torquil, you have confirmed again your lack of scholarly ways! He shook his head. "It was difficult to better him. We tried many times but he always managed to find the perpetrator. He knew just by looking at us who had stuck a toad in his tankard or hung a pillowcase of cow pats from the back of his chair. Collinson got ten strokes for the burning as the fool set the lens as a monocle to play the goat imitating some fop of a tutor we had who sported one."
We took more coffee and George commented how tasty the pastries were. Another reason for him to join the Regiment! There was a little more general chat, mainly between the officers about the Easter Hunts they would be attending and then it was time for us to leave on our next mission. George was shaken by the hand by the three officers as Torquil escorted Robin and me to the door of the Mess. "You will be seeing Elizabeth and Amelia now," he said with a smile, "Give them my love..." He turned to each of us in turn. "...and it is yours, too." He patted us both on the back. "Uncle Digby said last night that he cannot praise you too highly. You have shown you are true Brownings. True soldiers!"
Mr Topping said we had time to return by the road around St James's Park through to Pall Mall and drive up St James's Street and view the house. He said he did not advise visiting it as it needed much repair and cleaning. George was satisfied with that for he was more concerned with other matters and was quite voluble on the journey back. He was determined he wanted to join the Regiment and was telling Mr Topping all he had seen this morning. I said from the welcome he had received today and what was said last night I was sure he would gain the required commission. "It will cost my father a deal but as he paid for Geoffrey I am sure he won't begrudge me," he declared.
"If he doesn't you could enlist for a trooper," said cheeky Robin. "You will then have a free uniform and a good horse at no expense. Do not forget there will be the half guinea or so promised to us from the government and you could then have a tailor improve the fit of the britches. If it is more I am sure Tom and I will lend you another sixpence or even a shilling." He put his hands together in contemplation. "As a trooper you won't need all that yellow braid. I saw that in the window of the upholsterer's and it was thruppence a yard best quality. Think of the money your father would save." He didn't continue for George grabbed him and held him tight.
"And you would write and tell him all this I aver!" George tried to shake him but both dissolved into laughter as did Mr Topping. "My father is no skinflint I am sure but I know his eyebrows raised when he heard what he had to pay for all Geoffrey's needs. The dowry helped on Geoffrey's marriage but I know ready money is a constant worry for him." That was an interesting observation as I realised my Uncle Digby must have settled a good amount on Rosamund on her marriage especially to a Viscount's son.
George sat back in his seat having let a chuckling Robin go free. "I am confident my future is secure. My father would not have suggested the visit to the barracks..."
Robin had not finished! "...Unless he was of the opinion it might deter you from contemplating such a future."
George just laughed. "You wretch! I shall have the desire to use a cane on your backside like that scoundrel Pullen." He shook his head. "I am so pleased we can josh each other in this way. I can but hope I would find such good friends in the Regiment." He held a finger up. "I have but one more term at school. I will be eighteen shortly and feel I am getting old too soon."
It was true. Both Robin and I would soon be sixteen. Two more years at Ashbourne. What would that future hold? We had had excitements enough just this last week or so but also good memories of our visit to France.
We stopped for no more than a minute outside the house in James's Street. George peered out of the window and commented it looked like many other houses and that short viewing quite satisfied him. Thus, we arrived back at the Mews both in good humour and good time before we had the visit to my sister-in-law and niece. Mr Topping bade us good day and went into the stables with Mr Churcher. I had had the foresight before we left for the barracks to ask Jabez if a bouquet might be purchased for us to take as a present. A most beautiful arrangement was ready for us even as we entered the door. Jabez was a wretch, too, for he stood holding it with his other hand outstretched. Mr Pembridge was beside him and slapped his hand. "There is little control over servants these days!" Mr Pembridge said with a smile. He knew we were quite aware that he was no servant either.
What could I do but find a single penny loose in a pocket. Jabez simpered as I placed it in his paw which he immediately closed. He then handed the bouquet to George who took it quite uncomprehendingly and looked at it and then back at Mr Pembridge and to Jabez.
"No, sir, 'tis not for you," the rogue said with such an ingratiating tone, "Though those blue flowers do match your eyes so prettily."
Mr Pembridge's chest was heaving as George stared again at both. Once more he had to make a rapid adjustment. It was Robin who spoke.
"George, let me take the flowers or you will crush them to pieces." He stepped forward and the bouquet passed to him. George was shaking his head.
"This household," he murmured. He had already taken off his hat and was ready to remove his cloak. "I must assume I will have to find a hanging peg myself for this..." He held up his top hat. "...And for my cloak."
Jabez bowed his head and took the hat from him. "Sir, if you will follow me I will show you a suitable peg for your cloak." George turned to me as I was snorting with laughter.
"I blame you, Thomas Browning, you brought me here..." I thought he might be angry. "...But I have learned so much for which I am grateful." He was laughing now and swung round to face Mr Pembridge. "Each moment I have been in this house has taught me not to make judgements from my past life. You were a soldier, too?"
Mr Pembridge nodded. "Second and third sons are often required to take up arms for their sovereign." George grinned at that. Mr Pembridge continued, "A mere lieutenant though, but I had some years serving at the Paris Embassy and elsewhere before I entered Sir Digby's employ." Jabez had said he was fluent in French and we had heard he had been in Marseille. I wondered what role he was playing there and what had been his disguise? My musings were interrupted by George who echoed my thoughts.
"Another play actor, too?" George asked rhetorically. "I would hope to hear more of any exploits once I am in London again."
Mr Pembridge shook his head. "You have been privy to certain actions which had to be taken. You have been asked not to divulge whatever you have learned and that is true for all here in the house for anything we do."
George nodded. "I understand. It would seem there are many matters which it would be better not to know about. Sir Digby has been most open with us but what we have seen or heard is only part, is that not so?"
"That is correct. We have pledged our allegiance to Her Majesty and her government and we are under command to investigate persons, or events, if it is considered they might be of some danger to our country or, even, to others."
Robin had been listening intently. "This is but part of our history. There have always been dangers to the state and the pursuit of those who might be its enemies. We have heard of how Guy Fawkes was captured and that intelligence has always been sought from merchants and travellers."
Mr Pembridge laughed. "You are being polite. I would say our history shows the reliance on spies and paid informers. I will say no more!"
I wanted to know more but knew I could not ask. It was at that moment the grandfather clock in the hallway struck midday. Our hats and cloaks were taken from us by the servants - by those in that guise - and we rushed upstairs to tidy ourselves for the short walk to the other house.
Jabez followed us and asked if there was anything we needed. "The closet!" was George's more than polite reply as I, too, was in desperate need of a piss!
Once we were all relieved Jabez said he would accompany us as our trusty bulldog as there might be rough fellows about. George gave him a playful nudge. "Our bulldog will carry the bouquet in his jaws, eh?" He got a slight sneer in response and Jabez got another nudge.
We assembled again downstairs and collected our hats and cloaks ourselves much to George's amusement and Robin insisted he would carry the flowers. Again a great welcome. Mr Tolliver was at the door with Mr Partridge, who I had forgotten had been another of Uncle Digby's retainers. Behind them was the boy William who had grown even in the short time since I had last seen him. We took off hats and cloaks and George deliberately handed his hat to Jabez who bowed his head and took his cloak as well. Jabez remained in the hallway as Mr Tolliver accompanied us up the stairs to a bedroom where Elizabeth was in bed, propped up and looking most healthy. There was a young nursemaid who stood and bobbed her head when our entry was announced. By her side was a crib in which, I assumed was the infant, Amelia.
"Do come in," Elizabeth said. We each went up to her. Robin and I leaned up and kissed her cheek but gallant George lifted her hand and kissed her fingers. He had to be introduced properly but Elizabeth stopped me in full flow by holding up a hand. "Tom, my brother has already said what a good friend Master Lascelles is to him so I feel I already know him. That is, if I understood football which I have been told is his favourite occupation."
George was smiling. "Ma'am, that is so, Cedric has skills on the field of which he should be proud." Ho, ho! I think that was the first time I had heard George refer to him by his Christian name.
Elizabeth laughed. "I am glad girls are not expected to rush about as he does in all weathers." She looked over at Robin who was standing silent and solemn and still clutching the bouquet. Elizabeth was his stepmother and had readily accepted him as Torquil's son. He saw her smile and stepped forward to hold up the bouquet.
"Please accept a small present," he said and his handsome face returned the smile. Elizabeth took the sweet-smelling nosegay from him. She looked at the three of us and thanked us. I waited for another sally but she turned on her pillows and handed the bouquet to the nursemaid who pulled a bell-rope near the head of the bed. A parlourmaid appeared at the door and took the flowers away to be placed in a suitable vase.
We then had to inspect the babe: my niece and Robin's half-sister. I had seen a number of these small creatures when in Lancelot's company and he was making visits to his patients. They all looked the same whether of high station or low. Generally red-faced and ready to scream when disturbed or hungry. Amelia was no different, though while we peered attentively she, at least, remained placidly asleep. Elizabeth said she was settled for she had recently been fed. Robin made some remark that he often felt sleepy after a good meal which made Elizabeth laugh.
"I concur, my dear, it is the same with me. That and poor conversation!" I realised my sister-in-law had a ready humour. "I am so pleased to see you. I am bored but that doctor says I must rest for another three days. Tell me, there has been so much disturbance in the street with carriages arriving and departing. No one here will tell me who or what. My sister Isabella promised to find out more but she is not visiting me again until tomorrow. I think she finds the shops more interesting."
I looked at George. He nodded slightly. I would make my story short and sweet. Or as sweet as possible. I said we had heard that a boy from Careby had been kidnapped and were sure he was in London and that was why we were here. He had been found with two other captured boys but other more disturbing matters had been uncovered and my Uncle Digby had informed the authorities which accounted for all the visitors.
Elizabeth smiled. "That is all you can tell me, is it not?" My sister-in-law was very alert.
George cleared his throat. "Ma'am, there may be more, but..."
Elizabeth held up a hand. "I have no need to hear more." There was a hint of a grin. "No doubt my husband will know." She smiled. "But no, Torquil is the soul of discretion and I am satisfied with what you have told me." She turned and instructed the nursemaid to pull the bell-rope again. "I am now disobeying that doctor's orders. If you will excuse me I will rise and dress. Perhaps, not too formally. We shall have luncheon together downstairs, that is if you deign to dine with a lone female." She laughed. "Do not say anything, my mind is made up." She raised both hands as if to shoo us out.
At that moment young William appeared and was given instructions to take us down to the parlour and to find her maid. He was rather conflicted with the two sets of instructions and as the house seemed to be of the same construction as my Uncle Digby's I said we could no doubt find the parlour. "Thank you, sir, I will find Prudence in the servants' hall and send her up."
I led the way down the stairs and found the parlour easily. It was sparsely furnished but did have a chaise-longue and a rather uncomfortable padded chair. George and Robin commandeered the chaise-longue and I had the chair. George was grinning and Robin had a smirk on his face.
"Branscombe's sister is most lively," George said as soon as he was settled. "He has said she speaks her mind and he has been grateful for that in the past when his father has made undue demands on him. I do not have sisters so I find it difficult to know how I might respond."
I laughed. "My sisters are most forthright, too. My brother-in-law at St Paul's says that Hatty would make a good Dean or even a Bishop without any of the double-talk he has had to deal with!"
George was nodding. "I must admit I found her a delightful companion at dinner. She did not hesitate to tell Terence that he had not known that Geoffrey Chaucer was a poet when he said he thought my brother had been named after him as he was a most-renowned soldier." He nudged Robin. "There is no need to grin. I do know who Chaucer was as my mother said Geoffrey was not named for him but for our grandfather."
I knew why he was grinning. We had found a copy of the 'Canterbury Tales' in Uncle Dodd's library and he had said it was among the first poems written in English. I had turned the pages but it was not English as I knew it. I did find the 'Miller's Tale' and Robyn was the miller. Even his name was spelled differently! When we asked Lancelot about the book he laughed and said it was good we could not read it as it was full of rudeness. He would not explain but said to ask him in ten years time! We were thirteen at the time! I did persevere and found 'And at the wyndow out she putte hir hole' and then 'But with his mouth he kiste hir naked ers'. I was sure Mr Chaucer could not spell so gave up after that and decided to wait as Lancelot said! Seven years now to go!
We did not have to wait long now as William came to the parlour door and said that luncheon was ready to be served. Elizabeth was already seated in the diningroom and chatting to Jabez who was evidently well-known in the household. She assigned us places with Robin on her right and George on her left. My place was next to George. We were not disappointed as the food was good and well-prepared. Another relative of Signor Bartoli, Signor Bertini, was in charge of the kitchen and Elizabeth said she hoped they might employ Antonio and Carlo when they were older. We did not say about the two waifs for I could not say to her what their fate might have been.
It was a most happy occasion. She did not tire of hearing of life at Ashbourne for Robin told her of the play and the Sing Songs. She said she and her sisters had received their education from governesses who had varied from erudite to useless. She was of the opinion she could construe Latin prose as well as her brother though had never dared tell him. George said that no doubt she would find Robin better company in that exercise. I dared Robin by my look to make some comment in that language though he did not. It was she who also looked at him and then said "Robine, nasus et oculi patrem referunt" which made him redden and I could not help but snigger. She turned and patted George on the arm. "I apologise both to you and for the embarrassment I have caused our Robin." It was a true description. His nose and forehead had been handed down by his father.
George had recovered his composure. I doubt if he had ever heard a lady speak Latin. I must admit I had only heard my Aunt Matty make remarks to my Uncle Dodd, usually when he was being absent-minded or absorbed in his books. I recalled her asking 'cenabis hodie domi?' when he had been distracted one afternoon over a request to visit another of the clergy in a nearby parish. He just shook his head. "Nescio," was his response. She had just smiled at me. "Then Tom will stay and dine with me. Mrs Reynolds has a shoulder of lamb roasting in the oven." I was partial to good roast lamb and remembered that invitation as well as the Latin!
"I have little Latin," George said resignedly. "It is only with the help of Tom and my good friend Theo I survive."
"I prefer good books in plain English," Elizabeth said with a laugh. "I fear many would not be to boys' liking." We did talk then of Mr Dickens and a new story he had written about Christmas and a poor family which she said we must read and Sir Walter Scott's 'Ivanhoe' where even George nodded sagely. So luncheon finished most happily on that note.
All three of us were kissed as we took leave of her and we were commanded to visit again as soon as possible. Jabez was waiting in the hallway for us and was carrying a capacious cloth bag. He said there were some pastries for the boys in the parcel specially made by Signor Bertini. He was sure there would be more at my aunt's but with young Philip and John Harrison there as well it was advantageous to have the extra supply. George sniffed as if to catch any aroma and Jabez handed him the bag as he passed Robin and me our hats and cloaks. George was laughing. "How would one reprimand a servant in that heathen tongue?"
"Ego tibi subirascor!" said Robin immediately, "Sed, sunt sua cuique vitia!"
It was my turn to laugh for George looked quite astounded and turned to me. "I judge you know what he said. Why laugh?"
I explained that Robin had said he was annoyed at me but that everyone had their faults!
"Monsieur, ... qui la faute? Le mƒitre ou le serviteur? Cette une demande int‚ressant," Jabez asked.
George shook his head at hearing Jabez speak in French and raised his hands in defeat. Again I had to translate and said that Jabez had asked who was at fault, the master or the servant. I said I had heard servants at Ashbourne reprimanded through no fault of their own. Robin declared he had been the recipient of more than one rebuke when he was a groom in the stable at Ashbourne but he knew he had done no wrong. I wondered if I was being too forward when I said that those of higher station did not relish confessing to their errors.
George looked rather downcast. "I admit my own short temper at times." He smiled then. "Jabez, please take this bag for this poor creature needs his cloak and my less than dutiful fag will no doubt complain if I do not shift for myself."
I was quicker than him and retrieved his cloak and helped him put it on. My, I was almost as tall as him now and two years younger. Robin bowed and passed him his top hat. George made some comment that we would be repaid for our impertinence but no doubt we would set Mehmet on him. He held up his fists like a prizefighter then shook his head. "He is another young man who has skills and a bearing to be proud of. I would value his friendship, too."
With Jabez also cloaked we made our way back and George looked towards the end of the road. Two boys were sweeping the crossing. We saw a passer-by give one a coin. "I must learn more for I feel I have lived with my eyes closed," George said quietly.
Mr Purrett opened the door as we arrived. There was a young male servant standing by him whom I did not recognise. The young man bowed his head as we passed. We could hear much laughter coming along the corridor. Mr Purrett was smiling. "Master Goodhew and Master Harrison are here. They arrived early but her Ladyship was ready to receive them. I will go to announce your own arrival."
Jabez greeted the young man who had accompanied the boys on their journey here. I heard him say he had carried a portfolio of this week's drawings. Jabez must have known him well as he then grinned. We doffed our hats and cloaks and as soon as this was done Mr Purrett returned and we followed him to the parlour.
My aunt was seated with John Harrison in front of her holding up a large sheet of drawing paper. Philip was pointing to a most accomplished portrayal of a young man in an old-fashioned cloak and feathered hat. I recognised immediately it was the handsome servant waiting outside. I heard the last of Philip's description. "...he said I should not make shadows without showing carefully how the light descends..." He stopped as he espied his foster-brother Robin. My aunt was smiling as they embraced. "Oh, Robin, I was told you were here,." he said as they parted and smiled at each other.
After George had been introduced there was the telling of Philip and his progress. He did look the young artist. He had on a smart short tail-coat and yellow trousers with a fine ruffled shirt. He corrected his brother on his description of those nether garments and said they were 'ochre'. I could see that John Harrison and he were the greatest of friends. John had almost the same apparel but his trousers were of a brownish hue. We heard Philip had sold several portraits in pencil to ladies who had visited the School of Art. His clothes and John's had been purchased with his earnings! The master-in-charge had told him recently he could begin learning water colour after the summer. He smiled and said many people wanted a water colour of their residence or garden. The boy was showing he was also a man of business! My, Oh My, and he not yet fourteen!
I think George was quite overwhelmed as he leafed through a dozen or so drawings laid out on the table. He was shaking his head almost in disbelief. It was then that Jabez brought Timmy and the waifs into the room. It was Philip's turn to look overwhelmed. He had known Timmy at Careby and had drawn him at work in the gardens. They embraced, too, and the two fair-haired boys looked on and Philip said he must draw them as well. I noted he had already been sizing our George up. What would he be depicted as? A Roman Emperor no doubt! A Curly with a sizeable....! I had to stop myself having such thoughts!
My Aunt Fanny was clearly enjoying herself. Though always correct her kind heart showed itself in her relationship with all these boys. I could see Philip was a particular favourite but she did not exclude John Harrison who, though he had a mischievous grin at times, was clearly a good boy at heart. My Robin looked on and I could see he was so proud of his brother.
There was a rattle outside and Mr Purrett and the Harrison's servant appeared pushing trolleys with stands of pastries and tartlets and jugs of cordial. Antonio and Carlo came in behind them and handed plates and beakers around which were rapidly filled. A grand tea party was then in progress. Philip came over to Robin and me and said he was so happy and he had been told he and John Harrison would be coming to Careby with us for the rest of the Easter vacation. This was also news to us. We certainly wouldn't be returning in the curricle!
It was near half past five o'clock when the assembly broke up. Philip and John were taken to see my Uncle Digby before they departed and more laughter was heard. I spoke to Timmy who was both happy and sad to return to Careby with us. He had been assured the two boys would be cared for as he had become most fond of them and he had been told he was welcome at Charles Street at any time.
It was a quiet time after all had left. I felt it would not be opportune to ask my Uncle Digby if the strange table might be demonstrated before dinner as there was still activity around his study. That would have to wait until we and George were in residence again! I was sure that would not be long for if he was to be bought a commission it would be for September, no doubt, and we might be here in London to see him receive it! That is if we were invited. My brothers would have to be commanded!
Dinner that evening was with just my Uncle Digby and Aunt Fanny at the table with us three. We heard then that Terence would be riding with us to Careby with Caleb as his attendant. They would ride and we would be conveyed in a commodious coach for it would be filled by seven lads, including Francis Clifford, who would be joining us in the morning. I did not enquire how the curricle might be returned.
It was not late when we repaired to our bedroom for we would have a long day travelling tomorrow. Jabez and Mehmet had already laid out our nightgowns and there was hot water on the hearth. Jabez said they would wake us at seven which would give us good time to wash, dress and eat. This last with a nod towards George who, having consumed four glasses of wine and one and a half of port was quite ebullient. I think he had to restrain himself from leaping at Jabez and bussing him but did put his arms round him as if to steady himself. "I will miss this place," he said. "And you and Mehmet. Oh! my legs seem a little weak." What happened next was hilarious as George lay back on the bed and Jabez and Mehmet stripped him completely while he burbled on happily. He needed the closet so between them they lifted him and almost carried him and deposited him on the pan. Luckily he did not need to shit and Jabez was spared a task he had aided me with when I was very young! The room was warm from the fire in the grate so George was placed, still naked, in the bed and the pair left Robin and me to ready ourselves for slumber. Luckily, Robin knew how to turn off the gas lamps for we, too, had got into bed naked and with George beside us snoring we kissed and shared our love and those juices which soon flowed copiously.
To be continued:
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