the_comfortable_courtesan

And there was Surgeon-Major Hicks, that had devized a system of exercizes – began to think upon these matters when I was in the Punjaub – fancied one might bring wounded men back to nigh about full capacity for service – learnt a deal from certain native practices – that came about to ameliorate matters. Along with occasional champooing by that fine woman Sister Wilson, that had learnt the art from the Dowager Duchess of Humpleforth’s ayah.

Dr Ferraby was greatly reassuring – did not in the least recommend that she should spend the next months lying upon a sopha, but walk in the gardens – and sure, a little gardening would do no harm at all, would be beneficial. Conceded that she might have some particular trouble when eventually brought to bed, but that these days, we had that fine new invention, chloroform.

It was also delightful that dearest Mama, on receipt of this happy news, had declared that of course, was this agreeable to Jimsie, she should move to Trembourne House rather than reside with the Grigsons. Indeed this was a time when one wished the presence of one’s mother – sure, there was Grissie Undersedge, mother of two adorable infants and the most sensible of women, quite in the capacity of an elder sister – entirely superior to Rina! – but even so.

So they were quite the happiest establishment. Oh, even in mourning there were certain duties of rank – especially for Jimsie, that had no desire to imitate his father’s very lackadaisical notion of his duties as a peer of realm, and intended to be conscientious about those. So was having certain quiet meetings with the set about the Duke of Mulcaster and Greg Undersedge’s father the Earl of Nuttenford, as well as reading the newspapers and the reports of the undertakings of Parliament a good deal more closely than he had been wont.

Besides, he – along with Grissie, that had effectively been managing the Trembourne estates for some years – were now able to look them over and think about how they might best be run without having the constant drain of the expense of pandering to the late Earl’s hypochondria. Traveling about spaws all over the continent – visiting quacks –

When Dowager Lady Trembourne retired to the continent following the funeral, it was not said in so many words but there was a belief that there was some highly-placed foreign lover – possibly also had a lucky hand at the tables – able to cover her dress-bills by being known to set the style – 'tis a known thing, Grissie had said – so she was not a burden.

Oh, Grissie would sigh a little over the books, and say that even would it not be somewhat unfamilial to turn Mr Grigson’s uncle and mother out of Carlefour Castle, that was let to them on very agreeable terms, was a still prudent thing.

But indeed, they were all a deal happier.

In particular, Nora – Lady Eleanor Upweston, Jimsie’s younger sister – was positively blithe. Revealed, following her father’s death, that he had been considerably inclined to approve the union being proposed to him by Myo’s father Lord Saythingport, between Nora and his own heir, Viscount Talshaw.

They had all been shocked. Myo had no opinion at all of her eldest brother, that as the heir had been indulged all his life. Lord Gilbert Beaufoyle’s reports of his conduct on the Grand Tour had not been prepossessing, and he had now obtained throughout Society the reputation of a boor and a drunkard. Marry Nora! Quiet, shy, very pious Nora! It was quite horrible.

It also argued how very desperate Lord Saythingport was growing: for Nora would bring no great portion to the match, and it was still being gossiped upon how he had sold Cretia to Cyril Grigson, of no rank at all but exceedingly wealthy from his family’s China trade. However, Cretia seemed very well suited with that match – Grigson a very amiable fellow –

But they could now offer the argument that Nora was in mourning for her father and it would be entire improper to entertain thoughts of marriage for some several months yet.  By which time Saythingport might have contrived to find some wealthy but more lowly born heiress prepared to trade her gold for the eventual rank of marchioness.

So Nora sometimes sang at her lace-making until she came to the realization of what she was about, and blushed at the impropriety.

This particular afternoon the weather was so very fine they had taken their work to the summerhouse in the garden – Nora with her lace-pillow, Grissie with her lap-desk and Edmund and Adelaide playing at her feet, while Myo was about embroidering bookmarks that she might present when solicited for the next raffle or charity bazaar.

For was a day when they were in some anticipation that Lady Pockinford and Thea might call, and 'twas very like that there would be some good cause or other that Dumpling Dora was about!

It was Thea alone that was ushered into the summerhouse.

Mama, she said, has had a message from Rachel Demington that there is some muddle to do with the preparations for the Seamstresses’ Summer Workshops, so rushed off quite willy-nilly to convoke with her on the matter.

She disposed herself in a comfortable lounging chair, and looked about at 'em, and smiled. La, 'tis wicked unfilial in me, but is Mama not here I may enquire whether you, Nora, go visit Aggie and Hughie and see aught of Sister Linnet?

Nora put by her lace-making, so that she might give a lively account of how matters went in the parish of St Wilfrid’s, and add that there was a deal of asking after Lady Theodora.

Thea sighed. Would that I might visit 'em, but I had ado enough over pursuing my singing lessons at Zipsie’s –

At this moment arrived, very welcome, lemonade, just what one would desire on such an afternoon, along with an array of dainty sandwiches and cakes.

After they had refreshed themselves with these, and were still idly nibbling, Grissie remarked that no-one could object to Thea’s joining a married woman friend in her own house for singing lessons.

Thea sighed again. Entirely not, one would suppose. And Mama has come round – but. She looked down into her empty glass.

She looked up again. I am in somewhat of a dilemma.

That was intriguing, thought Myo. Was there some matter of a friend of Lord Rondegate that had spied Thea singing and taken a notion to her?

Thea put down the glass, clasped her hands together, and commenced the tale. Her Grace of Mulcaster had approached Miss McKeown about certain songs that had been composed by Lady Jane Knighton’s late cousin Grace Billston, that she was very desirous of hearing once more. Miss McKeown declared that her voice was no longer fit for the performance – still had copies – mayhap did she ask Zipsie?

So, she had taken the songs to Zipsie, that had been very impressed, and said, why, she could, she dared say, sing 'em, but seemed to her that they were better suited to Thea’s voice. And had tried 'em over with Thea, and they were very lovely songs –

But.

She looked up at her auditors. The words are from poems by Sappho, and was not Sappho a pagan poet?

I apprehend, said Grissie, that she was an antient Greek and thus would not have had the benefits of Christian revelation. But Thea dear, you would not be performing these songs publicly, would you?

Thea shook her head.

Nora gave a little gulp, and cleared her throat, and said, is it for Lady Jane, that is so noted for her good works, and wishes this remembrance of a departed friend, I am not sure one can see any harm. But mayhap I might ask Hughie – and Sister Linnet –

 Thea jumped up to kiss her cousin. That would be an immense kindness.

She desired 'em to tell her of their own news – was there not some matter of looking over one of Myo’s brother’s Oxford friends that might suit Jimsie as a secretary?

Oh, indeed, said Myo, a Mr Averdale, second son of a country squire in the Midlands somewhere – has his own way to make in the world one understands – a very clever fellow that has won scholarships and prizes – already shows a grasp of what the position would entail – proposed that he should come for a probationary period over the summer –

Do you not spend the summer at Worblewood?

Quite so! Will provide a quiet retreat – well, moderately quiet, Mr Chilfer has writ a very kind letter saying that he would be at leisure to come explore what he fancies is our buried Roman villa, and are we having excavations I am like to think Lucie and Lewis will both be very ardent to come and dig – quite aside from the attractions of the trout-stream – Grinnie may have other invitations but of course would ever be welcome –

I wonder, said Grissie with a grin, whether Lady Balstrup intends pass the summer at Attings.

Myo gave a little groan. Though I am more concerned about any gatherings my father purposes at Roughton Arching. At least we shall not be obliged to attend any revels there.

But, she thought, Worblewood was perhaps a little too close to Roughton Arching for Nora’s peace of mind. They had not considered over this problem yet. Mayhap she should go to Monk’s Garrowby with Grissie and Greg though one doubted whether she would find the Merrett uproar congenial.

She would doubtless be happiest with Aggie and Hughie but, the East End, in the height of summer? However, did she stay with the Pockinfords, she was like to feel a persecuted martyr, even was that prig Simon about his travels by then.

Even after so many

Here was all in order for her soirée – it was that moment before one might anticipate any arriving, when even after so many of 'em – la, must be hundreds, thought Clorinda, even did she omit those in her days as a Lady of the Town – and of course she did not count those card-parties she and Abby had held, with the whispered rumours of staking of favours! – No, those had been entirely business. Even after so many, there was a little nervous qualm.

She looked across the chamber to where dearest beloved Leda was setting out cards and counters, and smiled. Oh, it was still – no, maybe 'twas not, for her, a renewed springtime, but it was all the richness of that season Not yet on summer’s death nor on the birth Of trembling winter. Had never anticipated such a thing – had supposed there would still be certain old favourites, mayhap an occasional passing fancy, but not this delight.

Her daring darling – indeed, some of her exploits caused Clorinda a little trembling, but one saw she came off quite unharmed. But it was less troubling that Leda lately, in her character as Babsie Bolton, prime doxy at Dumaine’s, found an entrée into the society of those very exclusive and discreet doxies that resided in fine villas in St John’s Wood. For here was Iffling’s mistress, Marabelle Myrtle, very desirous that dear Babsie should come take tea, and had become quite part of a set of ladies in a similar condition, and, sure, there was a deal of very useful gossip exchanged!

Also she was able to put a deal of good business in the way of Matt Johnson’s agency, whether 'twas within that  sphere of advizing how to be secure against burglary – la, you should see the sparkle they sport, just for a tea-party! – or certain discreet matters such as letters to old admirers that they would wish back in their own hands &C&C.

But tonight Leda was in the character of, o, she is some connexion of that dear old sawbones Hacker that Lady Bexbury takes up, entire genteel and not in the least encroaching, that took banque at the card-table at her soirées and acted as her secretary on occasion, and none would suspect the other characters in which she was known!

She stepped across the room to give her a kiss, breaking off as she heard the door open as Sandy came in. Well, Sandy had seen more than kissing over the time of their acquaintance!

He looked at her and observed with a grin that Lady Bexbury was sporting the fabled Murrampore rubies.

Why, 'tis some while since I did so – and they are very fine although perchance the setting is coming about to be a little old-fashioned in style –

And 'tis not at all so these young men in Lord Peregrine’s set may boast about Oxford of having seen 'em!

What a pleasing set they are – what an excellent young fellow he is –

Indeed, not what one would anticipate from his father or his elder brother – or what one heard about their forebears.

Came in Lydia Marshall, that said, had been reassured that her harp was here, but would wish to ensure that was in tune –

Quite so, my dear, they were handling it very gentle but 'tis ever wise – apprehend that we shall be hearing a new trio of Lady Rondegate’s composition?

Lydy looked up from her strings and tuning key, saying, o, a very fine thing! and seemed about to expatiate further when came quite bursting in Hattie Nixon –

My poor old Nixon is resting a little at the foot of the stairs afore Hector goes assist him up – my dear, before the crowd arrives, what is this brangle 'twixt Lady Inez and Lady Leah? That were ever closer than sisters?

Clorinda sighed. Lovely twin berries on a single stem. No, 'tis like unto a play – here they are, have the most eligible suitors, were entirely minded to make those most acceptable matches – and then both of 'em fall quite besotted by that romantic figure Lord Gilbert Beaufoyle.

Hattie gave a positively raucous laugh. Along with half the young women in Society and a deal of the married ladies! Gives none of 'em the least encouragement – is never more than properly civil – but sure, is very handsome – has that dashing reputation – rumours of a liaison with some foreign fair – accounts for that air of alluring melancholy –

Poor Gillie, thought Clorinda, that now came to understand some of the inwardness of the matter. Indeed he was handsome, that was hardly surprizing in the offspring of Biffle and Viola, though he lacked the classical perfection of his elder brother Lord Rollo. And those tales of duels &C, that grew more and more exaggerated in the telling, must greatly add to his attractions.

But, my dear, before Mr N comes in, do tell me how Hywel does –

For Hattie continued to visit her invalid lover, the former actor Hywel Jenkins. So she reported upon his health, and the state of his spirits, and wondered whether it might be answerable for him to go to Malvern, or would some other spaw, or mayhap the seaside, be more suitable?

This ever-interesting subject broke off as entered Meg and Sebastian Knowles, Sebastian giving his arm to Mr Nixon, followed by the young Rondegates.

Meg and Zipsie went over to Lydy, Zipsie placing the oboe in its case that she had been cradling in her arms on top of the pianoforte.

Then came quite the flurry of guests – Sir Barton and dear Susannah Wallace – alas that Bobbie and Scilla were at present in Firlbrough – and not accompanied by their lingering house-guest Lord Fendersham! had felt obliged to extend an invitation but Clorinda was exceeding glad he had some conventicle or other elsewhere. Compared to Fendersham, the Pockinfords were positively lightminded even were they of the same Evangelical persuasion.

There were Pockinford and Dumpling Dora, with Artie and Rachel, and Thea, and the Lucases – no Hughie and Aggie, that had some matter a-doing in their parish the e’en – and no sign of the prig Simon.

Sir Vernon, that cast one of his diplomatic glances at her rubies.

The Mulcaster House party – Biffle, Viola, Sallington, Gillie – Steenie and several of his set – Viola with Mr Davison and Surgeon-Major Hicks – we were talking over a Mogul manuscript I have just acquired and sure we quite lost track of the time! – no Chloe?

But here were the Lowndes, and Chloe was with them –

Viola looked around and smiled. Chloe has been spending a few days with 'em in Highgate, and being shown over the press &C, now she goes write for 'em.

Excellent well! thought Clorinda, as entered her beloved wombatt child Flora with Hannah Roberts, Ambrose Joliffe, Janey and Geoff Merrett. She fancied there had been one of Janey’s conversaziones of young women interested in intellectual matters.

The Bexburys with the Horrocks – the Abertyldds – ah, Sir Oliver and Ollie must still be in Heggleton – the Casimirs – Cyrus Enderby – Quintus and Sukey – Harry and Lou –

Lord Peregrine and his friends – the Grigsons had a longstanding dinner with City acquaintance that it would be most uncivil to cut, one quite understood.

Lord Iffling! La, had been civil to send a card, having met him at Cretia’s tiffin party, but had not anticipated that he might come.

William and two of his pupils going around offering various refreshments to the company.

Meg had moved to sit at the pianoforte and was playing some suitably light matter.

Hah! Archie South Worpley and Trelfer, standing watching, not quite gaping, as Leda performed card-tricks for 'em. Darting sidelong glances towards the ladies of their hearts, that were keeping a considerable distance 'twixt each other, with occasional mutual glaring, and endeavouring catch the eye of Gillie Beaufoyle.

There was Agnes Lucas, going to pull at Zipsie’s sleeve – oh, wished to make known to her to Mr Davison. Had there not been some mention of Zipsie setting to music those ghazuls that Agnes had turned into English – or that, rather, Viola had translated and Agnes had transformed into English verse? And had not Hannah remarked upon some piece Mr Davison had writ upon Persian music that would forthcome in The Speculum?

Here, a little later than their wont, were the de Cléraults, Raoul and Phoebe along with their daughter Angelique, also an artist, and their son Lucien that was their business manager. Phoebe came over to explain that they had been somewhat detained in family gossip by brother Hector – o, naught to fret about, he now comes about to boast about Patience and Jessamy after all the fretting he was in.

Another tardy party – Julia Humpleforth and Josh, that very fortunate arrived simultaneous with the Samuels and Lady Jane – Clorinda came into some concern that they were growing indiscreet.

She looked about again –

That excellent fellow Enderby had contrived an introduction 'twixt South Worpley and young Mr Thornton over a common interest in lepidoptera – she perceived Mr Averdale in converse with Biffle and Hicks, perchance over matters to do with India – what, there was Iffling making civil to Quintus –

Quintus wearing the polite expression that she feared was common to medical men assailed for professional opinions upon social occasions, had seen it with dear old Hacker! – dared say 'twas concerning the affliction of Iffling’s father the Duke of Werrell.

Mr Nixon, Sir Barton, Sir Vernon and Trelfer at the card-table.

Zipsie was now at the pianoforte, her husband leaning upon it looking very fond.

Came up to Clorinda Lord Peregrine that thanked her very heartily for inviting his friends – 'tis quite the kindest thing – they will be talking of it for months –

Why, one sees they make a considerable impression! – there were Mr Wood and Mr Smithers engaged in some quite passionate discussion with Sandy and Geoff Merrett – I apprehend Mr Thornton will go visit Yeomans about this possibility of tutoring – but, la, let us go hear the music!

For the trio had just assembled and the company were placing themselves to listen.

Really, a great success! Count Casimir quite rushed up to Zipsie afterwards to congratulate her – Meg remarked that they must certainly play it again at her next musical evening –

And a crowning moment – made an entrance Amelia Addington, come straight from the theatre, desiring supper – for she could never eat afore a performance – and then, she said, surely, dear Lady Bexbury, you will gratify us with one of your famed readings from Shakspeare?

Vicky Jupp, as 'twas ever the case, was able to enlighten her. 'Tis not just that Miriam feels that she is entire the equal of Seraphine in all she learnt of her – but has lately been in convocation with the Dowager Duchess of Humpleforth’s cook, that knows a deal of dishes in the style of Bombay, that is not at all the same as that of Madras, that was what Seraphine studied. She grinned. I am like to think she also went interrogate the cooks of Their Graces’ Bengali guests!

So it was some matter of professional pride!

My dear, said Lady Bexbury one morn when Cretia mentioned this, sure you have an ideal occasion coming about – did you not remark that Lord Peregrine has invited his college set to come pass a fortnight or so in Town during the vacation? A tiffin party would be quite a proper informal way to introduce 'em into Society – 'twould not require evening dress that they may not have – or dancing that they may not have studied – one would be hesitant to hold a card-party not knowing whether they are poor scholars of Oxenford –

Indeed, Cretia had been a little wondering what she should do with Grinnie’s friends! Had been quite startled at her husband’s proposal that, since her brother would be coming to 'em for the vacation, Trembourne House still being in mourning, he might wish to invite some of his friends to go frolic with.

That was another thing Lady Bexbury had clarified for her – o, 'tis I am sure a kind thought, but he must also take a consideration that these are young men that will shortly embark upon careers in the world – I apprehend that Lord Peregrine intends go advance the interest of one of 'em to Jimsie Trembourne as a secretary – there is one has a notion to a tutor’s place – and who know what they may become?

So, here were four young men came with Grinnie, and looked somewhat nervous as they entered the house, looking about the fine entrance hall and seeming a little uneasy at the attentions of the footmen. And Grinnie made the introductions very proper – sure indeed they were of rather different station – sons of clergymen and country lawyers &C – but perfectly civil-mannered and well-spoken.

Was not at all long afore they found their way into the library, where at first they were taken aback by Vicky Jupp, but before long came to consider her an entire prodigy, that was not only able to provide 'em with the finest guidance about Town matters but was quite the paragon of learning –

Did Cretia venture in there they would be bobbing up and down and bowing and making exceeding courteous towards her, but one saw they were a little daunted by her rank – yet also quickly came about upon easy terms with Mr Grigson. One supposed that they were more used to the company of men.

They were desired to make free of the Grigsons’ box at the theatre – a carriage would be at their disposal – &C&C.

Cretia found herself in a little of a fret over the tiffin party – sure, there had been a very gratifying response to the invitations, and it fell out that various persons were in Town that would be particular suitable guests – the Samuels, Dr and Mrs Lucas, Miss Ferraby and Miss Roberts, that acclaimed mathematical savant Jolliffe of Cambridge was staying with the Geoffrey Merretts, the explorer Enderby had not yet departed for Peru –

Very fortunate, for might have felt obliged at least to extend an invitation, her father and Talshaw were at some country house party. Iffling being in Town – purportedly residing at his club, though it was very widely supposed he was in fact very comfortable in St John’s Wood with his mistress – she had sent him a card.

So, here she was, nervously waiting, and Padgett announced Lady Bexbury with Mr MacDonald, Miss Ferraby and Miss Roberts, and she saw Grinnie and his friends look very alert at that. Had indeed expressed hopes that MacDonald would be there, had heard so much of him – read his writings – has visited Oxford several times –

Then quite a flurry was admitted, and she gave the discreet signal to start serving up – platters on the tables and also to circulate among the guests – wine and fruit-cup offered –

Lady Bexbury gave her a little nod.

Came in Dr and Mrs Lucas, saying they hoped she did not mind, but had persuaded Hughie and Aggie to take a little break from the work in their parish –

Delightful! said Cretia, that was already acquainted with Lady Agatha through the philanthropic set. Had not ventured to offer this distraction, but am very pleased to see 'em here.

And here was tall Janey Merrett with the stuttering mathematician and, o, one had not dared hope! But, no, Mr Geoffrey Merrett was not in court the day and had never been able to resist a fine currie or a pillaw!

Lady Louisa Ferraby with apologies for Sir Harry – sudden pressures of business – but had brought with her her brother-in-law Mr Josiah Ferraby.

Lord Sallington with Chloe Ollifaunt, that friend of his Mr Davison that was an Oxford don and doubtless known to Grinnie and his friends, his brother Lord Stephen and several of his set, and oh, his other brother, that dashing romantic figure Lord Gilbert.

Cretia was like to expire with joy. The lions were here!

Lady Balstrup and La Signora Umberti – staying with the Apsteeds in Chelsea, entirely charming.

The Demingtons – she had been very nervous about meeting Lady Demington, having heard so much of her exceeding competence about philanthropic business from Dumpling Dora and a host of others. Had anticipated some plain severe creature, not so handsome a woman – such an odd match for plain pudgy Artie Demington, but one observed that they quite doated upon one another – and entirely amiable.

Those near neighbours of hers, the Rondegates with Lady Theodora Saxorby, apologizing for being a little tardy, but ‘twas the morning when they had their singing lessons – had indeed offered that Cretia might care to attend these, but she had come to a just estimation that her talents did not lie in that realm. But had discovered from her hours with Angelique de Clérault that for one that had started so late, did not show so badly with pastels!

Lord, said Zipsie, we are quite ravenous – la, is that Mrs Lucas? Must speak to her about my notion of making settings of those ghazuls she Englished.

Rondegate and Lady Theodora looked at her fondly and said, she should eat first or very like would faint in most uncivil fashion. Zipsie laughed, and a few people looked around, but really, her laugh was not unmusical – 'twas merely, not what was expected in a young lady. They proceeded into the throng.

There might be a few straggling latecomers, but indeed, the party was going!

Grinnie came up to her in very high spirits. Law, Cretia, you are doing us entirely proud here! The chaps will be talking of this forever.

Approached 'em Mr Wood, that was a shortish darkhaired sallow fellow that she apprehended intended taking orders, saying should go make civil to Dr Lucas and his good lady – had been to several of the Hebrew reading parties at his rectory that were not just a feast for the intellect but extreme convivial occasions – and was that perchance his son that was vicar at St Wilfrid’s in the East End? He looked wistful. One hears he is doing excellent work there.

Cretia confirmed that that 'twas indeed Hughie Lucas and Mr Wood trotted purposefully off.

Her brother grinned. Wood is somewhat High that makes some difficulties for him in finding a curacy.

She was about to go move among her guests – ensure that all were being served with the various delicacies – that platters were being replenished – that trays of glasses of wine and fruit-cup were circulating – when entered Iffling.

Made very civil to both of 'em – really, was so much more amiable when he was away from Rina! – looked about the company very approving –

Is that Demington? Should greatly appreciate an introduction – have lately appointed a new steward that has heard of the work he is doing and murmurs beneath his breath that Topping was very old-fashioned in his ways.

Indeed, said Cretia, taking his arm, I apprehend that Lord Demington quite preaches the gospel of improving agriculture.

So she made them known to one another, and then went see how her other guests did.

There were Zipsie and Agnes Lucas both very much relishing Miriam’s fine Hindu dishes – or were they, had she not said somewhat about the cooking of the Parsees? – and talking with animation about ghazuls with that friend of Sallington, that she discovered made deep studies in Persian and had writ on Persian music.

She passed by Mr Lucas and Lady Agatha warmly inviting Mr Wood to come visit their parish and see some of what they were bringing about – 'tis slow work but we get on –

Mr Thornton looking quite mesmerized by Flora Ferraby and Hannah Roberts –

Mr Averdale in deep discourse with Mr MacDonald and Lord Gilbert –

Lady Bexbury making Mr Smithers known to the Geoffrey Merretts and Mr Jolliffe – was Smithers not the one had an ambition to a legal career beyond the family country-town practice? How very stylish Janey Merrett always was, not in the least a dowdy blue-stocking.

She came up to where her husband was in converse with Enderby, Lady Louisa and Mr Ferraby, apropos, it would seem, of the fauna of China and the adjacent parts. Lady Louisa was most fulsome in her praise of the occasion – Harry will be in such envy! – as Mr Grigson looked at Cretia with an approving expression.

There was young Binnie quite dancing about the room with the dog Pompey, that was most gratifying pleased to see her, and licking her face with great exuberance.

There was his sister Marie – his fierce sister Marie! – sobbing on their cousin Dorcas’s shoulder in her gratitude at the latter’s having brought about this happiest turn of events –

Quite witchcraft! thought Maurice, might one attribute that to such a pious Methodist as Dorcas, that went about holding prayer-meetings and Bible-readings among the women of Covent Garden when she might spare the time from her duties as Lady Bexbury’s housekeeper.

She and Prue, the housemaid in the establishment, had been doing the like these many years – armoured in the Holy Spirit, they had said, or so Sophy had told him, when he raised his eyebrows at the thought of quiet but very handsome Dorcas going about Covent Garden. But maybe 'twas so, could Dorcas face down Nat Barron!

He wondered how Nat had come into the business – would have to look into that – had himself murmured about getting Nat to bring his powers of persuasion to bear on Binnie’s ma, but all had been determined to do their best within the Law – at least, at first.

Well, Nat had looked out for 'em, 'twas true, since they was hardened little sinners in the streets and alleys of Seven Dials – had always made something of a pet of Maurice himself, constituted himself his protector – only a decent return for him to lure gentlemen into dark spots where Nat’s gang, for he already had a set of fellows about him, even then, might rob 'em. Had there ever been a passage or so 'twixt 'em – a mere matter of curiosity on Nat’s part, no doubt, had it been so – Maurice’s lips were very firmly sealed.

Had Nat not been fucking Marie quite regular? Even before he had took over from Staithe, had took care of her, made it clear to Staithe that she was under Nat’s protection, and even in those days that was a warning to proceed with caution!

Indeed, they had long had a surmize that Jacques Allard’s drunken demise in a flooded ditch had somewhat to do with a favour from Nat….

Sure, they had both made something of themselves since then – being in the business of special pleasures for gentlemen was not like walking the streets, 'twas more what one might call carriage trade, law, the tales Marie might tell, just from seeing her lip curl when she read of some fellow prosing in Parliament or such. Had been brought on by that artist in those skills, Mary-Theresa O’Callaghan, in return for Maurice dressing her in the crack of Mamzelle Bridgette’s styles for when she attended the theatre or soirées as the consort of the critic Pargiter.

But Marie had still been hardened, her brother thought. He had thought himself thus, but was nothing like the same. There had been the benign example of Biddy Smith, Mamzelle Bridgette, that had give him a chance to become a modiste in spite of his sex. Once he had moved off the streets into the comfortable rooms of that certain club, it had not just been safety and much better remuneration, had been fellows like Captain Penkarding and Saxham Loppingham that had took an interest, give him good advice, recognized his abilities and advanced him to membership as a very useful fellow indeed.

A fellow that had very useful connexions with one that could forcefully discourage attempts at extortion….

Yet here was Marie – could not put it all down to the shock of Trembourne dropping dead at her feet. No, had been well before that that she had took in that waif Binnie. And he apprehended that she had been quite some time in the habit of going to Dorcas and Prue’s bible-readings and prayer-meetings at Mollie Binns’ coffee-house.

He shook his head. Then stood, picking up his hat and stick. Well, he said, is all well and happy, will be about my ways. He went to kiss his sister farewell, clasp Dorcas’s hand, inserting a couple of banknotes towards her charitable efforts, and then departed.

It was, he conceded to himself, exceeding annoying to one that had such a fine reputation for dealing with matters – was entirely the fellow they went to at the club – constantly consulted by the other chaps in the local businessmen’s association – the sisterhood were wont to appeal to him over any little troubles – considered entirely an oracle by his family and their wider connexion – that he had not been the one that had been able to resolve his own sister’s difficulty. Fancied he should have been able to come at some way to handle the business.

He was still brooding over this when he came to his own apartments, where he found the lamps lit, there was an agreeable scent of some good food, and best of all, the sight of a fine tall red-haired Scotsman sitting reading in one of the easy-chairs. Having hung up his outer garments and disposed of his hat and stick, he went to sit in his lap.

My dear, said Sandy, after a few moments, is something ado?

Maurice lifted his head from where it had been comfortably resting on Sandy’s shoulder and snapped, Just because I do not chatter like a magpie or the parrots at Black Tom’s, you suppose somewhat must be ado?

Well, it is a little unlike your usual wont not to say what you have been about!

Maurice sighed, stood up and shook himself. I was at Marie’s – all is very happily resolved about that brat Binnie, her ma has been entire converted by my cousin Dorcas, that was able to inform Nat Barron that his services would not be required in the matter – and how he found about the brangle, I should like to know! –

Sandy began to grin. And all without the intervention of a certain useful little dusky fellow, that takes a pet over it.

Maurice scowled, and reseated himself. Indeed I do.

Why, my dear, here you are, your bustling time o’year – this business at the club – why should you not leave it to other hands? You had no objections to Leda going investigate –

I knew about that! 'Twas not going on behind my back –

You mean, they did not bother you with it. I daresay you would have got into one of your takings over Dorcas going into Seven Dials –

It was very likely that he would have!

Sometimes, Sandy went on, even Clorinda, that arch-contriver, will leave matters up to other hands – does not suppose that there is nothing can go right without she is in the business – now, I fancy you would feel a deal better for taking a gin-hot and then a plate of this excellent stew that Euphemia sent with me.

Maurice snorted, but complied. His mood did indeed improve with the application of those remedies and Sandy’s company, that he had not anticipated to enjoy for some months yet whilst he jaunted about Scotland with young Carter.

Now, said Sandy, when the meal was done and they were sitting convivially with drinks in hand, I apprehend that what you have been going about very effective is fomenting a coup at the club against Saythingport.

Maurice modestly cast down his eyes. La, you will make me out a wild revolutionary fellow! But indeed, once I began to make certain essays I discovered how little he is liked by so many of the members. It was quite the revelation that Sir Stockwell, of all people, is most exceeding weary of his ways – does not think he has any notion of the necessity of running things in shipshape and Bristol order fashion –

Anyone might suppose Sir Stockwell to be an old salt rather than sitting at a desk in the Admiralty these many years!

Quite. And of course, at present Saythingport is seldom even there, because he is about this business of taking Talshaw about Society with a view to marrying him off –

Sandy groaned. I suppose that there will be those that consider his rank must outweigh his considerable defects of person and character when making a matrimonial bargain.

One dares say. But it keeps Saythingport occupied, and I think we are like to favour the membership of young Davison when it comes to committee.

Excellent! Sandy looked down into his glass, and poured himself some more port. My dear, there is a troubling little piece of news I fancy I ought to communicate to you – may be nothing, or rather come to nothing to bother us: but Basil Linsleigh has been seen in the region of Naples.

Maurice hissed. Not murdered by Albanian bandits or died of fevers in Greece, then.

Alas, no, in fine plump form from what Emmy di Serrante writes to Clorinda – horrid mincing fat creature that was rudely insulting about lady water-colourists. Though the company he was in included a family of wealthy Virginians that he was making up to, so perchance he will venture to the New World. Meanwhile, Marcello is arranging for him to be under observation.

Maurice fluttered his eyelashes. Is Marcello not that fellow that is extreme handy with a stiletto?

Sandy looked at him with his most disapproving John Knox face. We do not commission assassinations, he said, however much we are tempted.

I did not mean it – not entirely – sure I might wish him half an hour with Thad –

Sandy leaned over and kissed him. Come, my dear, you are tired –

Not so very tired –

Sandy stood and pulled Maurice up into an embrace.

I am, said the latter, very fortunate.

It was a little irksome, had one been away for some years about the business of the nation, and given leave to return to visit one’s family for what one feared would be a short while, to discover that one’s mother, whom one particularly wished to see, was from home. About some tiresome matter to do with his little sister Bella, Gillie – Lord Gilbert Beaufoyle – was apprized by his father the Duke almost as soon as he entered Mulcaster House.

It was entirely clear to Gillie that his father was in a considerable concern that, was he not immediately conveyed the facts of the matter, he might hear some scurrilous gossip upon the business and at once go act the offended and vengeful brother upon the Earl of Blatchett.

Gillie sighed and said, one duel in Buda-Pesth, where these things are taken quite as a matter of course, with a Hungarian hussar, that I may as well reveal to you, was in order to gain an entrée to their circles.

Not quite the whole truth, but at least it would reassure his father that it had been in pursuit of his duties: that were not, as was generally supposed, as a younger son of a Duke in the Diplomatic, merely about being an adornment of Embassies at tea-parties, balls &C. No, Gillie, with his gift for languages, a keen intelligence, and his athletic abilities, was at rather more dangerous work.

So he diverted the conversation into all the news of family and Town Society that he had missed while travelling in the domains of the Tsar and then the Baltic regions. Brother Essie still not married – Rollo still philoprogenitive – Cathy the mother of a promising brood – Steenie a would-be poet that was getting up a magazine –

Sad thing about the Admiral – his aunt Lady Jane came round and now out of mourning – no, not living here – has good quiet apartments near Miss Addington – convenient for her philanthropic operations – no sign of Janey increasing after these several years – has quite the salon for her coterie of blue-stocking young women –

The various marriages among their set – Zipsie Parry-Lloyd got off at last – similarly Saythingport’s youngest daughter, married into wealth rather than rank, now she is out from the shadow of Lady Iffling quite an agreeable young woman, has the greatest admiration for Lady Bexbury – Raxdell now has all his offspring suitably wed –

There was young Jimsie Ketterwell, scarce returned from his honeymoon with Saythingport’s lame daughter, when there is this shocking matter of his father’s death and he finds himself Trembourne quite unanticipated –

I saw somewhat of that, said Gillie, but did not have the full story.

His father snorted, remarking that he doubted any would come at the full story. One must commend Asterley’s very tactful evidence at the inquest, though that had not stopped gossip.

I should go convey my condolences – saw somewhat of the Countess – the Dowager Countess I should say – in my travels –

Oh, she has gone abroad – given out that she recruits from the shock at some spaw, but there is speculation that she has some foreign lover, and really, one could hardly blame her married to that hypochondriacal bore.

Being about the nation’s confidential matters abroad most fortunately gave one practice in concealing one’s emotions. Rosy.  In spite of the difference in their ages, from being colleagues they had become lovers, and he was exceedingly anxious to know how she did.

So he gave a vague smile and said, did not immediate recall any overt scandal or linking with any particular name – but as for scandal, what was the latest to-do in the Fendersham imbroglio?

It was of course imperative that he should go see Sir Vernon Horrabin, provided he could manage to do so with all due discretion, as soon as might be.

That could be, he supposed, accomplished rather more readily in the absence of Mama and Essie and Bella – his father was preoccupied with the weakness of the present Ministry and the impending likelihood of a General Election, and Steenie was unlike to notice anything that did not strike some poetical note. He had made a very proper duty call on Cathy and Phil and their household – would have to journey down to Norleigh Hall to call upon Rollo and Di – ought to go make his bow to Aunt Jane –

But first, Sir Vernon.

There were certain matters to report best conveyed verbally rather than writ down even in the securest cypher – but a deal of the business was his superior expertly gleaning his impressions of a deal of phaenomena he had encountered during his sojourn abroad.

Sir Vernon gave an approving nod and said, was all very well, but there was a delicate matter – knew Lord Gilbert had been obliged to present as the cavaliere servente of Lady Trembourne –

Gillie nodded. A device to enable the communication of intelligence that had started their whole affaire.

– fancied he might have observed whether there was some particular favourite? He sighed. Has quite vanished since her husband was interred – said to be recruiting at some spaw but I can hardly go interrogate Lady Undersedge – very troubling.

Gillie looked pensive, then shook his head. She was very much pursued, but I did not think she favoured one more than another.

One cannot suppose her devastated by the loss of that tiresome fellow. But, to other matters. Before you leave for Paris –

Paris! Gillie could not completely suppress a grin. Quite the accolade. Of course, he not only had a superior command of Parisian French, but also Provençal, Breton, other regional dialects, and was at present studying Basque for his own entertainment.

– it would be advizable to convoke with Miss Hacker over the latest methods in lock-picking, the most recent things in skeleton-keys, &C: I will arrange it.

Gillie had somewhat of a conceit in his skills in such matters but he was somewhat cast down when he met Miss Hacker at the appointed hour. She desired him to demonstrate his aptitude, sniffed, and remarked that he sure required some brush-up to his talents.

He had to concede, watching her at work, that she had an almost supernatural ability with locks. Indeed, very clever fingers.

He had been wondering whether he might apply these skills he was improving to finding out Rosy’s whereabouts.

Except –

Maybe it was a qualm that he should overcome – for in the pursuit of his duties he might well have to undertake the like – but all the sense of honour bred in him from childhood revolted from the thought of sneaking – somehow – into Trembourne House and, once there, ferreting around in Grissie Undersedge’s escritoire to see did she have any correspondence from her mother. The feeling was quite physical nausea.

Don’t, said Miss Hacker, stand staring at the lock – look lively to it!

Gillie started.

It dawned upon him that Miss Hacker was, it was given out, in the employ of Matt Johnson’s investigation agency.

When the practice was over, and she was giving him an inventory of his weaknesses very like a fencing master with a promising pupil, he wondered –

Miss Hacker, do you ever take private commissions?

She narrowed her eyes at him. Private commissions?

To investigate things –

Ah-ha. Investigate things very discreet, nothing mentioned to Sir V, mayhap – She was looking at him as if he were a not very complicated lock. Perchance there might be a lady in it?

You guess aright, said Gillie, though the matter may be rather different than you suppose.

Say on!

There is some mystery about the present whereabouts of the Dowager Lady Trembourne –

Was that a blink?

– that I am rather anxious to ascertain without I bother her relatives.

There are those, said Miss Hacker in very dry tones, saying she had been playing high at the tables at the spaws the late Earl dragged her about.

Rosy had been far too canny to get into difficulties with play, but one saw it made some explanation.

But I can assure you I intend her no harm –

She tilted her head and scrutinized him for some moments. Mayhap and perchance! What’s it worth?

Gillie gulped.

Miss Hacker grinned. O, very like one day I may require a favour from you, or from one you can require it of, and I would rather have that laid up, I am not in want –

He nodded. That was fair. And also, he had not liked the thought of this transaction to discover Rosy being a matter of cash.

Well, you go practise what I have shown you, and I will go investigate.

So there were a few days in which he endeavoured to occupy his mind with practicing lock-picking, studying Basque, and going to a fencing saloon so that that skill did not lapse. He dared say that he ought to be going about Society, but – not yet.

On his next meeting with Miss Hacker, she put down a jangling of locks and skeleton keys as she said, Delft.

Delft? In Holland? What would Rosy do there?

She slid a slip of paper into his hand, that he supposed must be further information as to Rosy’s direction there.

Thank you, he murmured, picking up the skeleton keys.

She perched against a table to scrutinize his proceedings, making the occasional sharp comment. Eventually she called a halt, not before he found his hands beginning to tremble a little.

You will not, she said, glancing at them, be at all like to be at the task so long does it come to it.

He sighed. Does it take that long, should probably abandon it for fear of discovery.

She nodded. 'Tis the wisest course. But you come about to have a nice hand in the business.

Gratifying praise!

She then shifted from foot to foot, and frowned a little, and said, 'twas give out that he was very handy indeed with a sword, but had a notion that there might be occasion when a chiv might be a more suitable weapon.

 Gillie gulped. He wondered whether this was instructions from Sir Vernon or a thought that had struck Miss Hacker quite independent. One apprehended that there might be somewhat rough and tumble came about in the proceedings of enquiry agents….

Later, he had a further thought that perchance she hinted at the Blatchett business.

Could be no model to follow

Bella – Lady Isabella Beaufoyle – looked out of the carriage window and suppressed a sigh. Sure she was entire delighted to be going to Attervale to have a good long visit with Lady Emily Merrett and her companion Miss Lalage Fenster. But she was somewhat put out that it had not been considered proper that she might just be put upon a suitable train – o, with one of the maids to accompany her for propriety’s sake – for the nearest station and take the fly from there.

No, here she was not only with her eldest brother Essie – Lord Sallington, that the family still called by the fond baby-name give him by his wet-nurse, Betty Higgins – that she might have borne with, but Mama – Viola, Her Grace of Mulcaster – as well. Anyone might suppose her an invalid!

She did, indeed, feel perchance a little what Chloe was wont to describe as wamblesome lately – had been confined to her sofa for some weeks since the Hackwold Incident. And she had to confess, inwardly, that she had had no inclination to her usual activity and that it had been somewhat of a relief to be told that it would not be prudent in the least to resume her usual social round. While there were no longer any manifest symptoms of the chill that had resulted – and no wonder! all remarked – from a ride on a night that was not merely chilly but interspersed with flurries of sleet, she still felt undue languid and unlike herself.

It had been Essie that had sat down beside her and said, it could come about that some event would cause a shock to the nerves – Quintus – Dr Ferraby was an old friend of his from the Raxdell House nursery days – said 'tis quite to be expected that even such a horsewoman as yourself might be somewhat set aback by being bolted with thus.

But he knew that the being bolted with by that skittish mare Thessaly had been quite the least of the matter. While Society gossip put it about that had been provoked so that Lord Blatchett might effect a daring rescue, in truth it had been a device to drive her towards his hunting-box. Whether – as he had told her – this was merely in order to provide a compelling reason for her father to concede to his suit to her hand, or whether he had had actual ruin in his intentions, Bella had not lingered to discover. Left alone – a chamber on the ground floor – the window unlocked – she had escaped.

Well-trained by Belinda Penkarding, she was entirely capable of saddling and bridling the cob that stood in the stables – the mare Thessaly being still in a very poor way – and mount without the need of a groom to boost her into the saddle. Her first thought had just been to get away but shortly had encountered a signpost that showed her in known territory and she had made her way to Jupp’s farm, where, most fortunate, Mrs Penkarding and Gertie Jupp were in residence.

Sure she had never had any mind to marrying Blatchett! Had, it was true, found his admiration very agreeable – a fine upstanding fellow – showed to advantage in a ballroom – and quite unsurpassed on horseback and in the hunting-field. Mayhap she had been, just a little, impressed that he took an interest in her – praised her equestrian talents &C –

However, after that visit to Oaks Merriam she could hardly take him very seriously. It was a splendid enough place – seat of the Earls of Blatchett these several generations – but what she and Chloe had most particular noticed was that he and his forebears had not at all been given to reading. Sure, one did not perchance expect a fellow in his rank to be given to deep study, but the works on the library shelves – elegantly bound in leather with the family crest stamped upon 'em – had clearly been purchased for show and not for use. Was not a collection that one would commend to Hannah Roberts to write up under her style of Bibliophilia for The Speculum of Arts and Sciences! that she was very noted for and was quite besought to come look at libraries up and down the country.

Furthermore, as the daughter of a Duke that took a most conscientious dutiful part in the government of the nation, Bella had observed that Blatchett was conspicuous by his absence at the Palace of Westminster. Though had some doubts as to the soundness of his political views from idle comments he had passed.

Bella had been brought up in a set in which the ladies took the liveliest interest in politics – Lady Wallace, one of her mother’s oldest friends, wrote political sketches under the style of Aspasia – and her mother herself was wont to act from time to time as her father’s political secretary. Then, of course, there was Flora, Miss Ferraby, that shocking Miss Ferraby, that wrote and lectured upon political matters and even more unwomanly topics, that had been a dear friend of Essie’s from childhood, and that, even with her notoriety, the family would not at all have objected to him marrying. But although they seemed on terms of great affection, to Bella’s observation, did not come to have and to hold, forsaking all others &C.

She had taken advantage of being obliged to lie upon a sopha in the warm to undertake a deal of unaccustomed reading, and had desired to be brought copies of those radical journals in which Miss Ferraby’s thoughts were published. She had no doubt that there were households where, was this discovered, there would be an immense outcry, and indeed, she began to apprehend why that might be so. But Papa himself had come talk to her and explained that Miss Ferraby was a very estimable person – her views on the education of children widely praised – but that Bella might consider that, although she was widely received in Society, her station was very different from Bella’s. The Ferraby connexion was everywhere admired: however, Sir Josiah, though raised to the rank of baronet, had been a Northern industrialist of humble origins whose abilities had made him wealthy and influential. He had also had very radical notions about the position of women and had made his daughters independent rather than bestowing portions upon 'em to catch husbands.

So there was Flora’s elder sister Miss Elizabeth Ferraby that was now Lady Ollifaunt had taken her portion and put it into theatres and had some several in provincial towns and cities, and it was known that reputations were made in 'em – was an actress had got her start there was now quite the Queen of the stage in New York! –

And it was widely given out that had she so desired, Miss Margaret, instead of marrying Sebastian Knowles, might have made a career as a musician.

Papa went on to dare say that we might see somewhat remarkable with the daughters of Sir Harry and Dr Quintus, that were of a like mind to their father. Quintus had even been heard to express that he saw no reason why ladies should not become doctors.

But, even so, Bella understood that her lot in life was different. O, there was no expectation that she should marry in her first Season, and Mama somewhat deplored the rush to get young women married off. Better to wait a little, and look about, and learn at least something of the world, and obtain some degree of judgement of men’s character.

Nonetheless, though 'twas never said in so many words, she was supposed to get married in due course.

Even with the example of her aunt Jane before 'em! – though one understood that there had been there the matter of being left a generous bequest by the great-uncle that had conveyed her her classical learning, so that she had been able to maintain her independence until such time as dear Admiral Knighton had been in a position to offer.

It was all a puzzle to Bella. She had never yet seen a man she desired to marry, except for Mr Josh Ferraby, because then one might go with him on his explorations. People said you would have babies, as if that were a fine thing, and while she found Rollo’s and Cathy’s children amiable creatures enough, had no great inclination to motherhood herself.

But what was the position did one remain single? From looking about, she fancied it came to going live with one or other brother or sister and being Auntie in the household, that struck her as quite immense tedious. O, there were cases where a man remained single and had a sister that kept house for him and took care of affairs – she wondered whether, perchance, did Essie continue in his disinclination to wed, that might answer? Would that not even be sensible? Though one heard it also came about that men that were quite old took a sudden fancy to marry some much younger woman – had not Lord Fendersham been looking very doating on Lady Theodora Saxorby? it had been much remarked – and the existing chatelaine was thus deposed.

Yet – she almost started at the thought, as they turned into the short drive up to the manor house at Attervale – was not Lady Emily unmarried? And never had been married? Here she was, had been living at Attervale, one of the Nuttenford estates, as 'twere as Lady of the Manor, with Miss Fenster, this entire age – managed the home farm – dealt with the tenants –

However, when she thought a little further about it, did she mention that as an instance of a life that a lady might lead did she not marry, she fancied that all would groan and throw up their hands and say, o, that is the Merretts for you. For somehow, though Bella did not think their behaviour was so wildly out of the common, the family had the reputation of being eccentrique to the point of scandal. Lady Offgrange that had eloped with the Marquess – the Earl himself that had married lovely, witty and wealthy Miss Rebecca Gold rather than one of the young ladies of aristocratic breeding being paraded for his approval – she did not quite know exactly what it was about Mr Geoffrey, but there was something – Lady Louisa marrying Harry Ferraby –

She sighed. Even the entirely eligible union of Lady Rachel with Artie Demington had taken place within a flurry of his parents’ misplaced expectations.

Clorinda, Dowager Marchioness of Bexbury, was visiting her old friend Mrs Dalrymple, ostensibly to discuss a new proposition concerning the philanthropic enterprize in which they both took an interest that had set up a number of optical dispensaries providing spectacles for the weak-sighted poor, or letters to hospitals providing operations were those necessary. Mrs Dalrymple, that was no longer young, had been having some little problems of health keeping her from recent meetings of the committee.

As Clorinda entered the parlour an elderly pug came up to sniff about her skirts, for had never abandoned the hope that, one day, a visitor would arrive that had happily concealed a rabbit or some such there. It snuffled around for a little while, sighed, and returned to snooze at its mistress’ feet.

No, cried Clorinda, do not put yourself to the trouble of rising, sure we are quite antient friends and need not stand upon ceremony!

They shook hands and Clorinda was waved into the one comfortable chair that was not already occupied by a pug.

The maid came with tea whilst they exchanged comments upon the weather and general matters – they say this government cannot last and there will be an election very shortly – the health of one another’s family and friends –

La, Mrs D had had a letter from her grandson Orlando in Sydney, where he was entirely thriving with his theatre company –

One was relieved to hear that, for not so very long ago Orlando Richardson had gone in some peril on account of the vengeful feelings of the husbands and other lovers of the ladies who had found the young actor most magnetic. Sure he was not the handsomest of men – nothing like dear Hywel Jenkins had been in his heyday – but had a charm that made up for any plainness.

And there was her grand-daughter, naughty Rosalind, that had run away from school to go on the stage under the name of Dalrymple, so that there would not be odious comparisons with her mother, that bright star of the London stage, Clara Richardson, doing exceeding well –

Of course, said Mrs Dalrymple, it gives one great confidence that she is in one of Lady Ollifaunt’s companies –

Oh, indeed, no vagabond player matter! Clorinda smiled. She had known Bess Ollifaunt since childhood, when she had presented the offspring of her dear loves Josiah and Eliza Ferraby with a fine superior toy theatre. And here was Bess now with some several provincial theatres that were agreed quite crack companies.

But, went on Mrs D, sure I might talk of the children for hours, let us to business.

So Clorinda took the papers out of her reticule, and opened the notion that Aggie – Lady Agatha – Lucas had had in her husband’s parish in the East End, that until one might get up enough interest to set up a dispensary, one might arrange for a visiting oculist, once or twice in a month.

One can tell she is Dumpling Dora – I mean, Lady Pockinford’s! – daughter! What a very apt notion. Or, she looked considering, there might be some local oculist that could be persuaded to give some gratuitous time to the work.

They discussed this, and various other matters to do with the charity, until there was a particularly loud burst of girlish laughter from the next room.

Clorinda raised her eyebrows.

La, said Mrs Dalrymple, as I daresay you know, since I apprehend Miss Allard is a connexion of your Sophy –

Clorinda nodded.

– here is that child Binnie that she gives refuge, the mother being most undesirable, comes shelter here a while and keep Clary company, as there is some fear that the mother may go kidnap her so that she can put her to earning her keep. And there she is, already has quite a little business in Covent Garden a-walking dogs and brushing 'em and teaching 'em manners, while being cared for by that excellent woman –

Clorinda fancied that Mrs Dalrymple did not know the precise nature of Marie Allard’s own business, providing special pleasures for gentlemen. Kept quite separate from her dwelling!

– and I daresay the mother wants to put her to making artificial flowers or some such trade, does she not have worse intentions. An agreeable child that has quite the nicest hand with dogs – the pugs doat upon her –

And Clary has not took that fever that had smitten her school?

Not in the least, in quite bouncing good health I am relieved to say.

At this moment the door opened as the maid ushered in Mrs Dalrymple’s son Danvers. That was still pointed to as a fine example of the style of the Regent’s day, when he had been one of the set around Clorinda’s dear friend Gervase, Viscount Raxdell. Had been living in a quite devoted unhallowed union with Clara Richardson for these many years, for the actress had had no inclination to dwindle into a wife and abandon the stage.

And Mrs Dalrymple was too delighted to welcome the grandchildren she had begun to despair of to cavil about the manner of their begetting!

Lady Bexbury! – servant – he bowed over her hand in the old courtly style – hoped he saw her well – how was MacDonald – here was Abertyldd went acquire a son-in-law that would be a great asset to his cricket-parties!

Further pleasantries were cut off by the bursting forth from the adjacent room of Clary, hurling herself at him crying Dada!

Followed more discreetly by Binnie, that dipped a very acceptable curtsey to the visitors. Looked in good health – clad in what Clorinda fancied to be an outgrown dress of Clary’s – one might convey reassuring report to be communicated to Marie Allard –

She exchanged glances with Mrs Dalrymple and they agreed that their business was concluded for the present.

So Clorinda went to where her carriage was waiting, and informed Nick Jupp that they might go straight home, and occupied the journey in making notes upon her convocation with Mrs Dalrymple in her little memorandum book.

Arriving home, Hector, her major-domo, informed her as he took her cloak and bonnet that Mr MacDonald was working in the library but would doubtless be grateful for some interruption.

Why, I will go interrupt him! Do you desire tea to be sent there rather than my parlour.

She passed through to what had become known as the library wing of the establishment. Sure it had been delightful to have been presented with the deeds of a pretty little house in Mayfair in her courtesan days! But when her life and circles expanded following her brief marriage to the ailing Marquess of Bexbury, that had required a widow to take care of certain discreet matters that he did not wish to entrust to the heir he loathed, it had become a little confining. But then the next-door house had fallen vacant, and, most fortunate, was part of prudent investments in Town estate made by an ancestor of her dear friend Biffle – Beaufoyle Beaufoyle, Duke of Mulcaster – that had been happy to make it over to her for a peppercorn rent.

So she had a fine library and a dining room for giving dinner parties, and had had room enough to provide lodging for her dearest friend Sandy – Alexander MacDonald, MA (Edinburgh) – following the death of his lover, and her friend, Gervase Reveley, Lord Raxdell. And also to provide refuge for Belinda, that had been married to the – supposed – Marquess of Bexbury that succeeded her husband, but had left him – set up training race-horses with her friend Captain Penkarding – returned to prevent a bigamous marriage – obliged to manage the estate when the Marquess was declared lunatic – and now, following Penkarding’s death, in business with Sam Jupp’s livery stables in the mews. Also widely consulted for her skills in horse-doctoring.

When Clorinda entered the library she found Sandy seated at the table with some several boxes piled on the floor about him, and stacks of paper before him. He was scowling at 'em.

La, my dear, have you found yet more bigamous marriages of that scoundrel O’Neill?

He looked up. Not yet, he conceded, but a good deal of evidence of debts and exceedingly dubious financial dealings. But what I am at here is trying to disentangle the matter of this lawsuit over Lady Wauderkell’s property in Cork. Occurred to me the notion that did it come about to be resolved in her favour, mayhap she might even go live there –

Clorinda grinned and said sure she would rather go live in Cork, that she understood to be a pleasant small city – healthful airs &C – rather than marry that dreary Evangelical bore Lord Fendersham, that still seemed so ardent to wed Lady W even after her elopement with O’Neill.

Sandy grinned back and said sure that might be exceeding amuzing – he fancied Lady Anonyma might get a novel or so out of the experience –

Alas that I do not have a fan about me to flap you with for impudence!

 –  But what I discover is very interesting. Her cousins brought the suit almost simultaneous upon her marriage to Sir Barnabas Wauderkell –

O! cried Clorinda, that puts a very interesting complexion upon it indeed – that perchance they did not want it to fall into his hands – one may well fancy that there was considerable family feeling against that match – and that tying it up in court proceedings, especial as I daresay he was reluctant to spend time in – I suppose 'twould be the Dublin courts? – pursuing it was one way to keep it safe for her.

Quite – he dies, and there is some compounding of the matter come to, as between family – and here is the widow with this comfortable share in a brewery to sustain her in her grief –

Clorinda snorted and said, that she might quaff the product of and mayhap distribute to the populace while she danced upon Sir Barnabas’ grave, the nasty fellow.

But here, she said, glancing at the table-top, I see Hector has brought in the post, and I should see is there aught of urgency – fie, an epistle from Naples! – I doubt 'tis anything imperative, but I long to hear how all goes on there –

She broke the seal, and sat down to peruse the letter – 'tis Alf goes write – Oh! Oh! Oh! Would you believe it! Who do you suppose has lately turned up in the vicinity of Naples?

Dearest Lady Anonyma, this is not one of your tales and you are not required to create suspense.

Basil Linsleigh!

Sandy swore in Scots. That mediocre artist had quit the realm somewhat precipitate a few years previous after his involvement in an illicit blackbirding scheme was like to be revealed, though rumour gave out that 'twas in fear of prosecution for sodomy.

Hmmm – hmmm – they go put in his way a very handsome confederate of theirs that he will doubtless desire as a model – so that is all under hand, and Marcello has refrained from employing his stiletto, the dear fellow, and we may anticipate to learn does he intend a return to these shores.

I might, however, said Sandy, inform Maurice that the wretch has not been murdered by Albanian bandits or kidnapped by Corsairs. For his lover had had an unhappy history with Linsleigh.

La, 'tis evoking quite immoderate amuzement:

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I came across your website and read about your memoirs.
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Madame C- has ever preferred Quality over Quantity.

Your amanuensis is delight'd to announce the publickation today of Volume 23 in Clorinda Cathcart's Circle, Challenges: Partings and Plots, in various forms electronickal and as a pretty bound volume:

The Season commences, with all its bustle. Some find themselves bereft, however temporarily, of accustomed companions. Others look forward not merely to marital unions but to joining familial circles. Meanwhile, various contrivances are upon hand: although many of these have benign intentions, there are also more malignant plots in train.

There has also been some addition to the article upon Domestic Economy of information concerning the remuneration and household duties of servants.

Docket clasped Tibby’s hands in both of hers and looked into the dark eyes. Dear Tibby, she said, this is very fine advancement, would not wish to keep you from it.

But Docket – how will you go on – without I take the heavier tasks from you –

Docket sniffed and said that doubtless Prue, that was coming on a deal better these days, might be spared when ‘twas a matter of ironing &C.

– And I still have so much to learn –

Fie, you do not go to the antipodes or even out of Town! You may come consult me – join in the tea-drinkings that I have with Bellamy, just as Williams was wont –

And, she went on, 'tis an excellent opportunity, this jaunt Her Ladyship takes to visit the Ferrabys afore this expedition to the late Marquess’s property at Naples, for you to convoke with Williams about what you may find in the Mulcaster establishments – who are like to be friends and who to be wary of – 'twill be most advantageous.

She sighed. For indeed – that poor young woman – it is a very good thing that she will have you to be with her to stand at her side –

One might not suppose a young lady that had lately become affianced to the still relatively young and undoubtedly handsome Duke of Mulcaster could be called a poor young woman, but sure the situation was less happy than might be. 'Twas less than a year since the Duke’s dearly-beloved first wife had died shortly after bearing him a son. Miss Knowles had exceeding fine looks, was well-dowered, of good birth on her mother’s side, but still very young. But old enough to be on the Marriage Market and that – creature – the present Marquess of Bexbury had set his sights upon her.

Her Ladyship had contrived to send her, accompanied by Tibby, with the Duke as he went to visit his northern property of Nitherholme, where Miss Knowles’ brother-in-law had been commissioned to various matters to do with improvements and the construction of a canal for the benefit of the ironworks. So that she might find refuge with her sister and her twin brother who were with him there.

And while there was indeed some urgency about the Duke’s remarriage, 'twas the way matters were in their station, one dared say that although he had already took some notion to Miss Knowles he would have been agreeable to wait a little. However, the loathsome Marquess was being very pressing, and her parents favoured him considerable, so 'twas politic to bring the match on as soon as might be, that was, immediate the full year of mourning was completed.

You will need, Docket went on, to manifest her consequence – find confederates within the establishment to build a party that is for her, for I doubt not there may be resentments that she comes in the late Duchess’s place – possible troubles with the Duke’s sister –

Tibby gulped.

But Williams, that is an excellent woman, I daresay will be able to tell you who you might trust and what the feeling is like to be –

Was some considerable time since she had been in one of those large households, but she could remember the like of how it was. O, she had managed, when she had had a place, but indeed, there had been reasons why it had seemed congenial to her to move into a smaller establishment.

Sure, she had been struck, seeing that lovely creature Clorinda Cathcart, trained up by that crack courtesan Madame Zelide, and now setting up independent, as to how she might dress her so as to show off that remarkable beauty even better – for that lavender silk did her no favours! Her fingers quite itched. And was looking about, her employer’s husband having determined upon 'em going to live on his Norfolk estate, where there would be no need for a crack lady’s maid the like of Docket – for retrenchment had been part of his motive, as well as removing his somewhat younger wife from certain temptations –

There had been a deal of gossip and prying and impertinent questioning among the servants, and had been coming to worry her over discovery, even though her position kept her at somewhat of a remove.

There was also a prudent thought that one in Miss Cathcart’s position might – perchance – have somewhat of liberality in her views did it ever become necessary to disclose…

Indeed, the more she came to know her, the strange fancies of her patrons that she maintained discretion over, her long friendship with the Honble Gervase Reveley, now Lord Raxdell, these all spoke of a lady that would not judge –

But even so, had taken a crisis of health to force a confession for fear of examination by a physician.

But she should not be thinking of herself – she looked into Tibby’s anxious face.

Had at first been dubious at the thought of taking one so very black as Tibby as an apprentice – and then seeing her ardent desire to become a fine lady’s maid, thought of that other that had been told, o, that is not for you! and nonetheless, made that her destiny, her profession. At the very least, she had took the consideration that here were younger limbs to undertake fetching and carrying – to take the simpler tasks from Docket’s hands – was there nothing more.

But sure, one soon saw that Tibby had a very nice eye for dress! Did one show her fashion-plates, she looked at 'em with an intelligent apprehension, and would remark as to whether or not they might suit Madame, or mayhap did one have that in a different shade, or alter the sleeves, o, she most certainly had the matter in her.

And one might even hope, did she come at the dressing of Miss Knowles, that she might also have some influence on her sister, Mrs Samuels? That was doubtless a very fine woman that knew her own mind and had married the man of her wishes against her family’s objections, but sadly careless in her dress. Could look a deal better did she try a little.

But, said Tibby, clutching Docket’s hands, surely Ma- – Her Ladyship – purposes to take you with her to Naples, and I should go there with you to take the burdens –

O, poo-poo, child, poo-poo. I doubt not there are a deal of maids about the villa can be entrusted with ironing and simple stitching &C –

Tibby looked exceedingly doubtful. Was’t not, she said, frowning, a very masculine establishment?

Docket snorted. Here is that assassin of His late Lordship’s constantly crying up the cooking of that Giuseppina, so I am like to think they had maidservants as well.

Mayhap –

Indeed you should not let this fine opportunity slip away!

Tibby gave a little sigh and said, indeed so, but she still did not like to leave Docket.

Well, child, 'tis a sentiment does you credit. But la, I remember when Biddy and I came to the end of our term in our first place, and she was determined to try her fortune in that perilous trade of dress-making, and o, there was a deal of sobbing over one another, and look how well has turned out for the both of us. And, said Docket, turning the conversation, that minds me that she has sent over some notions she had for dressing Her Ladyship for this jaunt, since she will be out of mourning and going about in what society there is in those parts.

She stood up and went over to the portfolio lying on the table. Now, do you convey me your thoughts – she will be coming here to undertake fittings, of course, 'tis quite the done thing –

Besides the sketches Biddy – Mamzelle Bridgette, crack Society modiste – had pinned samples of stuffs to her ideas.

O, sighed Tibby, indeed that blue always becomes Her Ladyship.

Indeed it did. Curiously, Docket thought, Madame – Her Ladyship had never taken that shade into distaste even though it had been that of the gown she had been wearing on the night of the Junker’s vicious assault. ‘Twas surprizing when she could not bear to sport the diamonds he had give her that she had also been wearing – and had sent his man to steal back! – though had been prudent enough to keep 'em by as insurance against some necessity.

But one might also consider that 'twas that exact shade of blue of the china that Mr Ferraby had presented to her when he had first made her acquaintance, and the Northern ironmaster had become very dear to her heart. Indeed, he and his family were now entire entwined into her life.