kiphiana

Had planted seeds

Nancy Gaskell had come to consider the offspring of her first husband, the banker Allison’s, long liaison with Bertha Watson quite in the capacity of stepchildren. Their own union had not been blessed, and, since the deathbed disclosure that Bertha had made to Nancy of the clandestine marriage that had took place in Scarborough, just as well. And Allison, that had been a chilly if proper-conducted husband towards her, had shown very well in his testamentary dispositions: had left her well-provided and with an interest in the bank – all the children desired to take the name of Allison and all established in solid professions or business or, in the case of the daughters, well-married.

Except for the youngest, Daisy – la, there were the sons all named out of the prophets of the Old Testament, and the daughters all very pretty and ornamental! – had shown herself such a fine scholar at the very good girls’ school in the town that had proceeded to teach there, and one wondered a little did she have some ambition to go improve her capacities at one of those colleges for ladies in London?

But here it had come to Daisy after the way of the world, that although for some years she had shown indifferent to the some several young men of Firlbrough that displayed an inclination to court her, for her fine looks and character as well as the very agreeable portion she would bring to a marriage, she now found herself looking very kindly upon the suit of the younger Mosstop brother. The Mosstops were incomers, that had arrived quite recently, but their skill as cabinet-makers had led to 'em already becoming well-established tradesmen in the town.

Their sister, that was known as Mrs Williams, there was a sad story behind to do with her villain husband that was now deceased in a street accident, was now the most favoured and fashionable milliner in the place. The elder Mosstop brother, Sidney, was already affianced to Lizbeth Powlett, one of the numerous offspring of the Powletts of Minnie’s bakeries and tearooms, flourishing enterprizes.

An entire eligible match, one could have entirely no objection.

Daisy said indeed, she had no cavils – Habby – her eldest brother Habbakuk, that was now head of the bank – considers it a most respectable connexion. But –

She looked down at her hands wringing together. I daresay that I may teach my own children –

Why, indeed that is a very fine thing, though it is claimed that 'tis also beneficial to children to go to school and mingle with others –

Oh, quite! But is it wrong to feel that perchance one might use one’s talents in a wider sphere, even was one married?

Nancy replenished their teacups and offered the plate of scones while she thought.

Well, my dear, I think you may find that at first – setting up keeping house, and then do you begin upon motherhood – you may find your hands entirely full! – but indeed, there comes about a time when a woman may wish for – there is a fine line of Shakspeare I have heard about virtues going forth of us – for that. And one hears the mothers of the town commend the way you educate their daughters –

Daisy blushed and ducked her head –

– and for some while I have had a notion – have heard of it at other institutes – of classes particularly for women, both on matters to do with health and more general intellectual improvement –

O, said Daisy, blushing more deeply, sure I am no Miss Ferraby –

Why, this would not be mounting a public platform to orate – a quieter matter of talking in a room – discussing questions –

This made Daisy look very thoughtful.

Consider over it, said Nancy. Talk with Mr Mosstop.

You are above and beyond good to us, said Daisy, somewhat tearful. Here is Zephy – her brother Zephaniah – ever praising the fine hospitality that your relatives accorded him in Manchester, made a deal of a difference to a young man living in lodgings – seeing all the horrors in the hospital wards &C – Violet and Pearl crying up the help you have been over 'prenticing their boys – Hosea being brought on in the coke-works –

Why, there is Hosea shows exceeding promising indeed – Mr Gaskell is like to think he should make a Grand Tour of some of the other enterprizes about the country –

As Jeremiah had said to her, did one have no son of one’s own, would feel some security that he was leaving the coke and gas-works in safe hands.

Daisy rose to her feet and said, had took up quite enough of Mrs Gaskell’s time.

Nancy took her hands and leant over to kiss her cheek. I wish you all happiness in your marriage, my dear.

And, she thought, when Daisy had departed, she had planted seeds for bringing about a notion that she, and the other members of the triumvirate of Firlbrough ladies, Vinnie Dalgleish and Hepzie Bramdon had lately talked over, concerning this matter of classes for women. Sure, mayhap Vinnie, that had been a preceptress at a very good girls’ boarding school afore she wed Enoch Dalgleish might have undertaken 'em, but she was very took up with a deal of good causes already!

She rang for the maid to come clear away the tea-things, and went to find Jeremiah.

As she anticipated, he was still in his office along with Horace Bramdon, plans spread out on the table. For Jeremiah was not letting the grass grow beneath his feet and letting this idea of an art gallery be a mere castle in the air! No, it was at the very least convoke with the architect over the practicalities.

Her husband looked up and said, here is Bramdon advances the excellent thought that we might incorporate a museum – there are those cabinets of fossils and insects &C at the institute, very crammed together, could be entirely better displayed –

Is that not very ambitious?

Bramdon, very eager, offered that they might call it the Sir Josiah Ferraby Memorial Museum, and get up a subscription – there were still funds from that attempt to get up a statue, that fell by the wayside during the decline in trade –

And, as Nancy recalled, a deal of brangling over where it should go and selecting a sculptor!

She responded that one felt that the Ferrabys would prefer a museum as memorial rather than a statue –

Quite so –

She stepped over to look more closely at the plans.  Jeremiah put an arm around her as he pointed out various particular merits –

Oh, it was very comforting, the signs of continuing affection that he demonstrated towards her! for she could not ignore the signs of the passage of time, and that she was some years the elder, and that he was still a fine-looking fellow in his prime – just a touch or two of grey in his dark locks that gave distinction – Sure, she was not wore-out with childbearing, had kept her figure, was well-preserved, but sometimes fretted.

Had been the greatest surprize when he had come call, quite early on in her widowhood, and made a declaration – indeed, she could not have failed to notice that there were a number of gentlemen in the locality took a considerable interest in the well-left widow of Banker Allison that was also a great friend of the Ferrabys – but this was different. This was the young man she had observed showing somewhat uneasy and awkward upon social occasions, and gone about to make more comfortable – for one saw that Miss Parkinson, Hepzie Bramdon’s sister, quite failed to set him at ease – and there came in his eyes somewhat she had never found in her husband’s, that had married a woman that provided a provident union into a Manchester banking connexion, and understood a deal about finance herself, and could do the proper in Firlbrough society, but whose warmer affections and passions had long been given to Bertha Watson.

Had never descended into flirtation – had eschewed aught that might give rise to gossip – but, oh, she had looked forward to his presence.

Bramdon said, would leave the plans here, should be getting along, and did Mrs Gaskell have any messages for Hepzie?

So Nancy ceased her reverie, and thought, and recollected that there was some matter of raising money for the Library Literature Fund, that they had not determined upon the best means, and perhaps they should convoke. But this talk of election made everything so uncertain!

Bramdon nodded and said, heard that the Tories were talking of putting up Whitterby, was a very different matter than that sot Birling.

Indeed it was, they agreed when Bramdon had finally left. Here were Mr and Mrs Robert Wallace making a visit, not electioneering as such but going about and taking the feel of the town and finding out what the issues were &C, and generally making themselves known so that they were not seen as strangers. But Bobbie Wallace was not a local man, however well-respected his father, and indeed his mother Aspasia were, whereas the late Sir Josiah and his successor Ned Granton had been. And the Whitterbys had been a county family in these parts since – well, not quite since Domesday, perchance, but a good long while.

And the Whitterbys were well-thought-of, unlike Henry Birling, that had once owned the coke-works but sold them to Ferraby, married Squire Matterson’s daughter and set up to be a country gentleman at Blethersett Hall. That had not done well at, and drank a deal too much, and his wife not much liked.

So did the Tories run Sir Jack Whitterby as their candidate, 'twas somewhat of a serious threat.

But here came Bobbie and Scilla, in exceeding good spirits.

Scilla said she would run upstairs at once to see how the little boys did.

Nancy assured her that there had been no outbreaks of turmoil during her absence: Scilla smiled and said, even so, wished to look upon 'em.

Jeremiah looked at Bobbie and remarked that he looked uncommon pleased with himself.

Indeed, said Bobbie, quite beaming. Imagine who I should meet in company this afternoon but Sir Jack Whitterby – quite assured me that he has no intention of conceding to any persuasions to stand – has quite enough to do bringing the estate about – would desire an introduction to Artie –

A great relief!

Essie dear, I hope you were not too bored at Sir Hobday Perram’s as we discoursed of the Persians and their art and poetry and music &C?

He looked up and grinned. Not in the least! I had a fine rummage among the works of European art that his forebears collected, and fancy I may advize him that there are some several vendable and will quite pay for that matter of a leaking roof. A few things to interest me in particular.

I am delighted to hear it. But what fine things he acquired during his sojourn in Persia – and I hope he will get his treatise on the music published – I apprehend Mr Davison has opened diplomatic negotiations with the press in Oxford –

I wonder, she mused, whether one might set those ghazuls that I translated and dear Agnes Lucas has rendered into good English verse.

I am like to think, Essie responded, that one might have to adapt the music somewhat for our English ears.

Very like! Viola leaned back. Well, I am a good deal easier in my mind over Bella. I did give some thought to her spending a little time on Jupp’s farm, but 'tis rather too close to Town – and indeed to Hackwold – so nothing could be more suitable than Attervale for her recruiting in country airs, since you are not at Nitherholme at present.

Essie sighed and remarked that even was he not now obliged to perform brotherly duties about the Season’s social occasions still felt it dutiful to assist his father as much as he could.

Hmm – with Bella off my hands mayhap I might take up some of my own neglected secretarial duties! But even were you at at Nitherholme I should be somewhat reluctant to have Bella there, hearing such reports of the uproarious behaviour of young Drew Fendersham in his father’s continued absence. Polly Fendersham will say there is no harm in Drew himself but thoughtlessness, but is less confident about the set around him. So I should be a little uneasy.

Especially as Polly, that might be some restraint, is so shortly off to Peru. Essie nodded.

They fell back into silence reading. Occasionally Viola glanced up. Essie did not greatly resemble his father: he favoured his mother, Kitty, Biffle’s first duchess, that had died at his birth. She had been given out plain, and her portrait at Qualling did not depict any conventional prettiness. But Sir Zoffany Robinson had caught something of character, intelligence, warmth, that one might also discern in her son.

But here they were, at last, drawing up at Mulcaster House. How daunted she had been when first entering it as a very young bride.

O! there, standing at the top of the steps, to her amazement and delight, darling Gillie! What a very agreeable surprize – had supposed him still in the far North – perchance no longer frozen by this season?

He ran down to embrace her as she descended from the carriage. Mama! jaunting off after Persian relics they tell me, as well as taking Bella into countryside retreat.

Why, Sir Hobday’s place is so close to Attervale, seemed the perfect opportunity – Essie’s friend Mr Davison had made an introduction – one saw that he was delighted to show off his fine things. But, my love, shall you be with us long?

She took his arm and they ascended through the portico into the house itself.

Gillie sighed. Alas, I have been accorded a brief holiday here, but – I must say 'tis very gratifying – am destined for Paris very shortly.

Paris! Well, one quite apprehended that that was quite the accolade – now a new Buonaparte had taken the reins it quite disturbed such order as had been coming about since ’48, caused considerable concern both for France and for wider questions.

Gratifying indeed!

But – there is also – he lowered his voice as they walked up the magnificent staircase to the first floor – a small discreet mission I have been desired to undertake – courier work – can you provide some familial excuse for my absence –

She squeezed his arm. My dear! Silence to the death! She raised her voice a little and remarked that was he returned to England there were certain aged relatives he should call upon.

He made suitable groans of protestation.

What I meant to ask, Mama, is, who are these young women about the place?

La, of course, you have been away so long! – but you must have some recollection of Chloe Ollifaunt, that was a schoolfellow of Bella’s – daughter of Sir Thomas and Lady Ollifaunt, that was Bess Ferraby, that runs so many theatres? I offered to give her a Season or two along with Bella, she has been the most excellent influence. And Sybil Vernall was another of their schoolfellows: Dr Asterley’s ward, her mother was his stepmother, died in Calcutta some years ago. Has the finest command of Bengali as well as the common Hindustani, undertakes secretarial duties for me. Is exceeding useful now your father and I take an interest in these Bengali reformers.

He turned, and clasped both her hands in his. Mama, truly you do not look a day older since I was last in Town! But you have just been traveling and I should let you go recover from that ordeal. Have a few presents from my own travels for you – Baltic amber &C – but that will wait. He stooped to kiss her cheek.

Dearest Gillie – so handsome, so like his father – Viola kissed him and went about her way.

Although she greatly wished to hear more of his adventures – those of them he was at liberty to discourse of – first once she had washed off the dust of the journey and changed into fresh garments, the proper responsible thing would be to go see Sybil to discover were there any urgent matters demanding her attention.

She found Sybil together with Chloe, their heads together over some piece of writing –

They jumped up and made little curtseys, hoping her visits had been agreeable and the journey bearable.

Why, Sybil, is this another tale of yours?

Sybil blushed. Her tale in last year’s Casket album had been much praised, Mr Lowndes had already taken a couple of shorter pieces for The Ladies’ What-Not, and Hannah Roberts had solicited Sybil for another longer tale, that would have elegant illustrations, for this winter’s Casket.

No, cried Chloe, 'tis not Syb, 'tis I become an author, or rather, a critic.

Oh yes: there had been some mention of Chloe inditing theatrical criticism for Steenie’s Helicon.

Sybil grinned and said, Mr Lowndes himself – we fancy young Mr Ferraby Lowndes may be a little biased in his opinions – Chloe blushed – saw Chloe’s pieces in the Helicon and offered that her opinions would be very welcome in The Oracle. So I was just looking over her fair-copies –

Syb being a published author, added Chloe.

Viola smiled benevolently. While the Ollifaunts had been grateful for Chloe to be given some experience of Society and conveyed a little polish, Viola fancied they did not have any particular ambitions towards a grand match. And marrying into the increasingly influential well-thought-of Lowndes press was unlikely to meet with disapproval!

Excellent well! she said. But now I am returned from seeing Bella into safe harbour, and indulging myself a little with Sir Hobday’s fine Persian things, I should to business.

Chloe took up her papers, saying they were just about done, anyway, and hoped that Her Grace had found all well at Attervale?

Viola sat down at the desk, as Sybil took out the diary and various letters and documents. Nothing of any great urgency, she said.

This turned out to be a very just assessment of the state of affairs. That being so, Viola considered that she ought to go make a visit to her sister-in-law Lady Jane Knighton. It was some while since they had been in company together, even though Jane was now out of mourning for the Admiral. And Viola’s joy at the unexpected advent of Gillie had made her think of what it must be like for Jane with Horrie – at sea about the Hydrographic Survey, no-one knew precisely where, letters very intermittent from lack of opportunity to send 'em –

So the following afternoon she took the carriage to that unfashionable but entirely respectable area where Lady Jane had a pleasing set of apartments adjacent to those of Amelia Addington, the Second Siddons. Indeed, there were signs that this part was coming up.

She found Lady Jane seated at her desk, not, as one might have anticipated, about one of the many philanthropies in which she interested herself, but sorting through a box of old papers.

Viola, my dear! Jane rose – forgive me for not shaking hands, mine are a little dusty from this task – and stooped to kiss her sister-in-law’s cheek. I will go ring for tea.

Once they were seated with tea and cinnamon toast between 'em, Jane explained what she was about.

Some old papers of mine from Nitherholme – Essie found 'em when he was there last and brought 'em to me. I had almost forgot about 'em, but here are my late great-uncle’s letters from Mrs Carter, the great blue-stocking –

I am like to think Hannah Roberts would be exceeding interested in those! Has writ some pieces on the French salonnières that were her contemporaries.

That is an excellent thought! Especially now there is this movement for the higher education of women.

Viola was about to allude to Vicky Jupp that she apprehended Jane was convoking with upon the classics, when a draught blew a sheet of paper to the floor. She stooped to pick it up. Could not repress a blush as she handed it to Jane – that setting by the late Grace Billston of Jane’s own translations from Sappho, that Viola had so embarrassed herself singing when she had been a foolish young girl endeavouring to ingratiate herself with the so very eligible Duke of Mulcaster’s sister.

But Jane did not seem to recall the event – looked wistfully at the music, sighed, and said, wondered should she ever hear this sung again? Miss McKeown declares her voice is no longer fit for public performance –

Perchance, thought Viola, one might make enquiries of Meg Knowles – or Dodo Brumpage, the Countess Casimir, sure one could not contrive to pronounce her married name – o, mayhap Zipsie Rondegate? – about one that might undertake a private performance.

Sure, returning to Town after all those months recruiting in Harrogate, 'twas like opening a novel and discovering 'twas the second volume and you were in the midst of the tale not knowing who the characters were or how they had got into that predicament –

Oh, there had been letters, and visitors had conveyed the latest gossip, but somehow it had all seemed very distant compared to Rachel’s agreeable gentle round of taking the waters – increasingly lengthy walks in the Stray – strolling about the shops – taking tea with her little group of new friends –

So here she was, very desirous to get quite caught up with all those philanthropic matters she had been neglecting – especial as one heard that her mother-in-law, dear Dumpling Dora, had been in a sad way due to the family troubles over Rachel's horrible prig of a brother-in-law Simon. That it was a great relief to hear was going to Peru with the explorer Enderby, and one did not wish, really, well, not very much, that he got eat by a jaguar. Was also a great relief that her papa-in-law Lord Pockinford had finally conceded to stop brooding and glooming on the family estates and had come to Town and opened up Pockinford House, so Lady P was no longer residing with darling Artie.

No, Rachel loved Dumpling Dora but had very much rather not share an establishment with her!

She was very much behindhand with getting all in order for the Seamstresses’ Summer Workshops, but la, here were her relatives in the greatest eagerness to come call and inform her of what went forth in their lives.

She found herself somewhat aghast at her sister Leah and cousin Inez, as they talked not merely of their extremely eligible suitors – Archie South Worpley, heir to the Duke of Humpleforth, had the greatest notion to Inez, and Lord Trelfer, that would in due course become Marquess of Emberry, was entirely infatuated with Leah – but of their considerable inclination to those suits.

What had happened to Leah and Inez, that had still been romping girls, more or less, when Rachel had been brought to bed and it had all gone so desperate badly? One understood they were still in the habit of getting up charades and amateur dramatics in the family tradition, had not turned Evangelical or followed in Thea Saxorby’s footsteps and started leaning towards sisterhoods.

No, their considerations were undoubtedly worldly.

Leah sighed. Our families, she said, and she and Inez exchanged glances, have this reputation of being rackety, and demonstrating a certain carelessness over rank, not entirely comme il faut –

You have made an entirely proper marriage, Inez went on, nothing could have been more suitable than a match with Lord Demington –

Rachel had not married Artie for that, but for his excellent good heart.

– and sure, one has no complaints of Greg’s marriage, but really, look at the former generation! My parents’ elopement that there was a play made out of! –

Aunt Em! groaned Leah. Uncle Geoff! – even is he now married to Janey, entirely suitable, there is still a deal of gossip links his name with this or that lady in past days – Aunty Lou married into industry!

Rachel snorted that the Ferrabys were received and esteemed everywhere.

And, of course, we adore Mama, we do not wish to conceal our lineage, but was somewhat of an eccentricity in Pa, that could have married anyone –

One apprehended, thought Rachel, that Leah would not be practising certain pretty family traditions when she had her own home: but kept silence.

Inez took up the plaint – there was her sister Di, the greatest beauty of her Season, threw herself away on a mere second son –

Given Sallington’s disinclination to matrimony, she may yet at least be a Duke’s mama! suggested Rachel.

– and much as one liked Verena, both lovely and amiable, could not consider her a really suitable spouse for Gussie –

Oh? said Rachel, raising her eyebrows.

Leah sighed. One might overlook that Sir Hartley is a mere baronet – very old family, an MP, very wealthy from tin – but the whole world knows she is not his daughter –

The whole world? Really?

Leah went on, – but the daughter of this Cossack that she and Gussie have been staying with these several months in the Ukraine.

Rachel clenched her hands out of sight and refrained from saying that her sister and cousin appeared to be preparing to marry two of the dreariest young men at present about the Marriage Market because they had the tinsel show of rank. Gussie and Verena clearly adored one another, though she was not so sure about Di and Rollo after some years of wedlock. Her aunt Em had a most agreeable life at Attervale with Lalage Fenster. Uncle Geoff had perchance been waiting for a woman that would suit him, as Janey clearly did: capable of an intelligent understanding of his legal cases, even was her first love mathematics.

She was not convinced that Trelfer was not a great bore simply because, according to Leah, he had a passionate interest in military matters – 'tis not playing with toy soldiers as that awful sister of his will twit him, 'tis understanding battles – his greatest regret is that he may not join the colours on account of his rank – takes up that fellow Hicks that was in the Punjaub in order to learn more about that campaign –

One supposed that might come about to be useful did Trelfer ever succeed and take part in the counsels of the nation?

Was very glad when they departed and she could turn once more to Sir Oliver Brumpage’s very civil letter from Heggleton offering whatever the charity might require in the way of cotton.

A much more useful visit was one that she had been solicited to by a note from dear Aunty Lou Ferraby. A young woman that had been brought in to a wholesale stationery business that Mr Knowles had come into in the course of another transaction – they had took a thought that they might produce a line specific for philanthropic enterprizes – Miss Frinton had quite the nicest notions about keeping records – she was employed by Matt Johnson’s agency – but now that dear Rachel was returned in health to Town, might well answer to have some convocation over the matter?

What a very excellent idea, Rachel had thought, having had to do with the somewhat haphazard records of various excellent causes. Did one have volumes that were already laid out in neat columns – with indexes – clearly marked with their purpose - &C&C – would be exceeding beneficial.

So, here came Miss Frinton, a very respectable-looking sort of woman some years older than Rachel herself, that looked a little daunted at being admitted to Lady Demington. Rachel rose to greet her and shook her hand, saying it was very good of her to come call, while waving her into a comfortable chair.

Rachel rang for tea, that came with a well-supplied cake-stand.

Meanwhile Miss Frinton was delving into the satchel she had been carrying, whence she took out several very handsome volumes –

These, she said, are samples that we had made up, that we should desire your opinions concerning.

Rachel enquired how she liked her tea, and offered cakes. Miss Frinton looked as if she had not expected somewhat resembling a social call and Rachel wondered whether she should have been more formal.

There was a little uneasy silence, then the door burst open admitting Jonathan, that must just have returned from his airing, crying Mama! here is Fatty-puss wishes come in! as Fatima slithered past him and made towards Rachel. Maggs pursued, wringing her hands.

Miss Frinton’s expression softened at the sight of him.

Come along, Master Jonathan, Her Ladyship your mama has company –

O, I know 'tis contrary to nursery discipline, but might he have one cake with us and make civil? Maggs looked severe, but nodded. So Jonathan was introduced to Mama’s guest, and allowed to choose just one cake from the stand, and to Rachel’s relief made no difficulty to being borne off to have that sticky hand washed when it was done.

Fatima jumped up into Miss Frinton’s lap.

You do not mind cats?

Not at all – what a fine puss. And what a delightful boy you have – she gave a wistful smile – that is such a charming age –

You have younger brothers – nephews – ?

Did not your aunt mention it? she responded with a renewed reserve. I have a boy of my own – now at school – attends that fine establishment in the City Mr Knowles’ son and his cousins go to –

One hears it provides an excellent education. Rachel felt a little embarrassed – one did not wish to pry into what might be sad circumstances – and found herself blushing somewhat.

Miss Frinton smiled a little and said, perchance, did Lady Demington deal with so many excellent philanthropic causes, she did not come to apprehend how many young women that were betrayed were not cast out by their families into destitution as one might suppose from plays and the penny parts. Would only encounter, mayhap, those sad cases who were – obliged to give up the babe to the Foundling Hospital or go on the parish or turn to the streets –

Rachel blushed a little more and conceded that she had had such commonplace notions, also, there was ever gossip about young ladies in her own station sent abroad for their health and the child fostered out, though had never come across a specific case.

Can the family afford another mouth to feed – is the mother herself earning – I had an excellent position with Mr Johnson – Ma – that is, my mother – keeping house and able to take care of Walter – we were in comfortable circumstance. But, she went on, let us get to business –

Rachel sighed and said that she was a sad ill-educated creature that was she flung upon the world did not know what she should do.

Miss Frinton gave a genteel snort and replied that was not at all what Lady Demington’s connexion gave out, that was that she had the most admirable business-like practices.

Rachel had thought she could not blush any more deeply, but found she could. To cover her confusion she picked up one of the volumes, that she immediately found most prepossessing.

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.

Pleased with the way things went

Nat Barron permitted himself to feel pleased with the way things went in his world. Here he was, taking his ease over the breakfast table with his very fine wife Ludmilla, that was an excellent spouse for a fellow in his line – bred up in pawnbroking and fencing, able to undertake a little simple forgery was it required – though naught to compare with her uncle Kaminski, that was quite the artist. And beyond these excellent personal qualities, it now came about that her former connexions in Stepney had come to hear of this very eligible match she had made: Nat Barron, that was not only chief of all the criminal enterprizes that went forward in Seven Dials, but had influence and alliances that extended a deal beyond that!

There was the very amiable relations he enjoyed with Ezra Klein’s Bishopsgate boys, and Abe Anglesmith’s Limehouse gang, that he was now bringing into a very useful exchange, by means of his own fellows. That would convey certain matters that the authorities would be looking out for around Bishopsgate over to Limehouse, and similarly matters that might be closely scrutinized about the docks, took over to Bishopgate, where they would look quite innocent upon market stalls.

There was this very profitable accord he had established with the Frawleys of Brighton, that had been Gentlemen of the Trade for countless generations, for could readily dispose of the fine liquors &C they brought over.

Had moved on considerable from the days when Nat Barron had been the fellow to call on was there one or another or so that was wanted teaching a lesson or mayhap even putting out of the way.

Though there was still good business in that! Not that he soiled his own hands with it, but here he was, the one that provided fellows to take care of any sharpers at Dumaine’s gambling-hell, and also to warn off any fellows that were well-paid to provide services at a certain discreet club for gentlemen of a certain taste did they grow grasping and threatening. And even to prevent trouble, as in the matter of rivals endeavouring kick up riot at the Buffle Arms Song and Supper Rooms, where that popular songstress, Clo Marshall, performed.

Then there was the dingers and the ken-crackers, and the whores, and Abbetts’ dog-fighting and ratting ring, none of it, true, what one might call within The Law, but all well-run, giving no trouble, payment made or favours granted in certain quarters –

Why, here you had young swells, come into Seven Dials to see life – would go to Black Tom’s and see the swearing parrot and his learned mate, and gawp at the low-life there – lay bets on a dogfight or so – take a girl to Lil and Joan’s 'commodation house – and nothing worse come to 'em than maybe a purse lost, a sore head in the morn – never a fellow found in an alley with a knife in his gut – crimped as a sailor – no real harm done –

Young Mr Reveley, Nat understood, was now married and would no longer be in the way of bringing his former companions from the country to see Town life himself, but very like his new-made brother-in-law young Osberton would take on the charge. He made a mental note to enquire of Bert Edwards, that now had that very fine situation at Raxdell House, and owed Nat a favour or so.

For Nat’s protection extended over Prancey’s molly-house, and Bert and his particular set found that a very useful spot for their revels.

Law, said 'Milla, sure you are deep in thought the morn!

Nat blinked, and looked at his wife. He chuckled and said, went be positive philosophical these days. And how did she do?

O, I come about well enough! She smiled. There were certain signs lately that she went with child, that was very gratifying, but also some cause of worry – Nat took a fret that perchance she should not be going to assist Grigori at the pawnshop, or climb the rickety stairs to her uncle’s attic to ensure he was well – but she laughed and poopooed his fears. Was not a fine lady that would go lie upon a sopha all those months, and one heard they had hard times of it when it came to bearing – she had rather be up and about her business.

And he had come to find himself in a habit of listening to 'Milla and trusting her judgement.

Indeed, she said, I am well enough in myself, but I heard a troubling thing from Lil and Joan t’other day –

For it answered very well to have 'Milla undertake those matters, for there were concerns that the women were more like to bring to another women. Besides, he had come about to see that women had very nice judgement, not only among their own kind – he must admit that had he asked any of the other whores about that trollop Franzie, they would have told him a tale or two that would have been of great benefit to his interests! – but of men, for men were often very loose-tongued and careless in their company.

Had he took that into consideration, mayhap would never have had that bother with Rodge and Art!

'Milla cleared her throat, and went on, had Larry Hooper come around about an investigation –

Nat looked up sharply with a growl.

– naught to do with any business of ours! No, 'twas to do with that child Binnie that Whipping Marie took to look after her pup Pompey, makes quite a pet of the girl, that comes on to have quite the connexion for walking dogs and brushing 'em &C around Covent Garden, that her ma of a sudden goes wish to have back with her –

Nat snorted. That would be that slovenly Apsell mot – that took up with this fellow and that fellow and now finds herself left on her own resources – never did a day’s honest – nor dishonest! – work in her life. Living hand-to-mouth –

So, 'Milla went on, the notion is that she intends to live on the girl, that cannot yet have even come to womanhood –

Nat growled again. He would not be having that.

So Lil and Joan fathom it that here is Larry goes seek out evidence, so does the woman try taking it to a magistrate, crying and wailing that her dear daughter is being stole from her, 'twill show her bad character –

Nat banged a fist on the table. Magistrate! 'Tis a very chancy proceeding – these police courts –

Oh, those Allards were proud! They surely knew that they might ask him a favour in this matter, but no, mayhap they were thinking they already owed him over the little matter of Thad removing Trembourne’s corpse well away from Whipping Marie’s premises? Was they not the oldest of friends? Had not Maurie quite gratuitous made 'Milla a fine wedding dress and trousseau? Had not Maurie put him in the way of numerous remunerative matters?

He supposed they still thought he had deliberately murdered that wastrel Froggie sot Jacques Allard their father, whereas he had simply seen him lying drunk in a ditch, that had later filled in a rainstorm, whereby he drownded. Nat had foreseen the possibility, but no more than that. They had been glad to have been quit of the fellow – monstrous cruel to his poor wife –

'Milla pushed back her chair and said Grigori would be wondering where she was – should not dilly-dally –

So Nat went to the window and whistled up Bart and Fritz to escort her there, and having kissed his wife goodbye, with a few messages for Grigori, went back to the table to sit and brood.

After a while he got up, and pulled on his jacket and picked up his stout stick with the silver knob, then went find Thad, for the very sight of Thad was like to cause a certain trembling, even these days when he went be quite lovesick over a respectable woman in Matt Johnson’s employ.

They strode through the streets, greeted with the usual marks of respect as they passed, until they came to the low alleyway where Binnie’s ma was presently residing. Nothing like Marie Allard’s fine house in Covent Garden, kept quite separate from her business premises providing special pleasures for gentlemen that she did very well from.

Pausing outside the door they could hear voices within – had she found another fellow, then? No, it sounded like two women –

Nat rapped on the door with his stick.

He was about to rap again when the door opened.

God be with you, said the woman, that was certainly not that Apsell slut: very dark of skin, her hair done up in a cloth, dressed very plain but in good stuff –

Ah. 'Twas that biblewoman, that held prayer-meetings over to Covent Garden for the fine Misses there. And the gossip that gave her out as handsome enough to earn her living like 'em did not lie: not a young woman, but in good looks still.

She continued to look at Nat calmly.

Is Mrs Apsell within?

Indeed she is, but I do not think she is at present ready for company – there has been a deal of soul-struggle, but she comes about to see the light –

There was a sound of sobbing from within.

We come to see her, said Nat, concerning her daughter –

Oh, said the woman, she now sees that 'tis the right thing to leave her where she is –

Mrs Dorcas, Mrs Dorcas, what is it? came the weak cry.

Was the woman – Mrs Dorcas? – tall? Nat could not tell, as she drew herself up and said that 'twould be better did they leave – would only distress Mrs Apsell and very like send her into a hysterick fit.

Nat nodded, remarked that she appeared to have the business well in hand, conveyed her something towards the charities he had no doubt she was engaged in, sketched a bow, and departed.

He shook his head. Law, she has managed to give the old bitch religion. 'Tis a miracle.

Sure marriage was very agreeable! – mayhap was just because this was the honeymoon, but indeed, she and Cecil were not about spending a deal of time in billing and cooing, they were, she fancied, friends that found this marriage a very eligible sensible matter. There was his dreadful mother, nagging and complaining at him to get married and forbidding him to undertake a deal of enjoyments for fear of danger, he being the last hope of his line, and indeed, he agreed, one saw that marriage was necessary as well as ordained &C&C as the service put it –

And here had been Zipsie, that had been out a while, and no offers, somewhat plain, rather awkward in her manner, but the finest musician in all the musical Parry-Lloyd family, and here was a prospective husband that appreciated that – had notions for musical soirées, quite understood that she must have time to give to practice and to composing –

They found they had a similar feeling towards the obligations of Society – might laugh a little at 'em together, and talk over company afterwards.

Was almost as good a friend as Thea – Lady Theodora Saxorby – and without that piety that was something in Thea that she could not share.

Furthermore, Zipsie had been given very proper training in running a household by her mother, Lady Abertyldd, and had soon had matters at Wepperell Larches, that had been somewhat neglected, running entirely smoothly.

After an hour or so on the household books, she might have a little musical recreation! She put the oboe to her lips and played a few notes.

The door opened and came in, unannounced, Lady Samuels.

My dear Zipsie – la, I should say Lady Rondegate –

No, please do call me Zipsie as you were wont, Lady Samuels –

– and do you call me Martha, I do not know myself with this Lady Samuels. But how charming, that you play to the birds.

It might have seemed a little peculiar, given that this was intended as their honeymoon, that they had this visit from Sir Jacob and Lady Samuels, but that esteemed surveyor and authority on forestry had written to say they were passing through this part of the country on their way to undertake some matter in connexion with Lady Bexbury’s Shropshire property, and understood Lord Rondegate was anxious for advice concerning his woodlands. Might they call, was it convenient?

Indeed it was, and even more so when Sir Jacob had pointed out that that neglected quarry on the estate should also be investigated, he fancied it might still come about to be productive with modern methods.

They had had a little concern about how local society would receive the Samuels – for although Sir Jacob’s ancestors had converted some generations ago, he was still of very Hebraic looks. But he was an FRS, and it turned out that the vicar knew his work on fossils, in which he took something of an interest himself, and, after all, had been knighted by Her Majesty as well as being quite part of the domestic circle of Lady Jane Knighton, the sister of the Duke of Mulcaster, the great philanthropic lady that so romantically married the late Admiral Knighton.

While his wife, a noted eccentrique, was perhaps an even greater success. Not only was she the sister of the Duchess of Mulcaster, she was the authoress of those delightful and instructive volumes on poultry that it seemed all the ladies in the neighbourhood read more religiously than the Gospels. So was extensively interrogated about hens – invited to come view this and that one’s chickens – oh, Lady Samuels also painted in watercolours? – there was a pretty ruined well – waterfall – picturesque antient oak tree – that would surely delight her.

Zipsie also entertained the guests at their dinner parties for the local gentry with what she and Cecil privately described as pretty little songs and jolly tunes, but she dared say all they would talk about for the next some several months would be Martha Samuels.

Indeed her works were delightful, and reading 'em, so that she might not show an entire ignoramus in conversation, Zipsie was struck by the notion of composing a Chicken Cantata – would serve very well as an entertainment for Mama’s birthday. For was usually expected that she would provide some matter that her brothers and sisters might perform.

Sure life at Wepperell Larches was more agreeable than she had anticipated, but they both agreed that now they had shown their faces in local society, and got that matter of forestry in hand, they might return to Town.

Do you think, dear wife, we might venture upon a house-party in the summer? The keeper offers that there might be somewhat in the way of shooting, Cecil asked as they drove away.

Zipsie wrinkled her nose. La, there is still a deal of work to do – was about to propose coming down in the summer with the intention of undertaking a good deal of refurbishment –

He grinned and said, sure he had a sad bachelor eye in such matters still!

– but mayhap a few good friends. I wonder might one persuade Grissie Undersedge, that has such a nice eye in decoration – will still be in half-mourning of course –

So they had amiable discussion on the matter, and also considered that they would doubtless be invited about to various other houses, and should not yet make any too definite plans.

Oh, but it was quite delightful to enter into the fine house that Cecil had took in Belgravia, that she had seen and approved before their wedding – such an excellent address – such fine modern edifices – and –

O!

They had already chosen this chamber as the music-room, and her violoncello was there, but also –

Quite the most superior of Broadwood’s pianofortes!

Oh, my dear, that is so very thoughtful!

Why, he said, shrugging a little in embarrassment, I thought you would like that better than some common matter of diamond parures &C.

Zipsie was already trying over its tone – its range – Why, she said, I could sit here all day, but I will not be so selfish, let us go and take tea like a calm and proper married couple.

It was exceedingly pleasant not to have brothers and sisters coming in upon her at all hours asking her to hear over their practice or to compose 'em some piece or play for 'em – had thought she might miss the bustle of Bexbury House but had not realized how much this quieter life would suit her.

Though 'twas very shortly indeed that her mother came calling with along with her sister-in-law, Mrs Brumpage Parry-Lloyd, and her younger sisters Charlotte – Lotty – and Georgianna – Gianna.

Mama looked exceedingly gratified to find Zipsie in good looks – praised the healthful airs of the Marches – all very impressed with her new residence – and to her considerable relief, since Lotty and Gianna were there, no opportunity for her mother to ask embarrassing questions.

And indeed, there was no need for maternal concern! There were no problems to do with the marriage bed!

They departed, leaving an invitation to dinner at Bexbury House, as was anticipated.

Much more welcome was a call from dear Thea – Lady Theodora Saxorby, Zipsie’s greatest friend.

Thea was, naturally, concerned to find out how Zipsie did – see over the house – very proper – admired the Broadwood greatly –

But Zipsie observed that her friend seemed in rather low spirits.

How are all at Trembourne House?

Oh, all are quite well – the children are flourishing – 'tis definite that Myo is increasing – but –

But?

Thea sighed, twisted her hands together, and said, here was her father, had after all this while being quite the recluse at Pockinford Hall, decided to open up the Town house, so Mama, that has been staying with Artie, will go live with him, and Simon – but 'tis no time before he goes to Peru with Mr Enderby – and thinks it proper that I should go reside in the bosom of my family as well.

I do admit, she went on, that it must be the proper and the dutiful thing, but – o, Zipsie, I am very much like to suppose that they will forbid my going to visit Aggie and Hughie and dear Sister Linnet –

Might you not, suggested Zipsie, interest Dump – Lady Pockinford – in the fine charitable work Aggie and that sisterhood are about in Hughie’s parish?

Thea groaned and said, alas, because Mama had been languishing so long in the country, found a great deal that needed her hand upon it in her usual undertakings, and sighs that 'tis very high time that Rachel returns from Harrogate to be her trusted lieutenant –

Zipsie’s honking laugh exploded. La, does she intend to send poor Rachel straight back there? Or mayhap to Malvern to be braced up?

Thea was forced to smile. 'Tis indeed placing rather heavy expectations upon her. Though Artie will say she comes round to flourish – But as well as that, I am in some fear that they will not look with approval at my going to my singing lessons with Miss McKeown –

Surely there can be no objection!

O, Mama has fears of abductions – has ever been so, was the like with my Aunt Lucas before she married, though she was a considerable heiress and perchance the dangers in those days were greater?

Zipsie snorted. But my dear, I have the entire solution to that difficulty!

Thea frowned a little. You do? This is not some wild device?

Tush, said Zipsie, folding her hands in her lap and looking prim, I am a married woman and have a great deal of responsibilities – she sighed – really, a deal of matters taking up time, having to be At Home, and go making calls, &C – and I said to Lord Rondegate, 'twill be a hard business finding time to go for my lessons, and he remarked that it would be quite usual for the Misses McKeown and Lewis to come here – we could send a conveyance – give 'em a meal – 'tis entirely a done thing to have music teachers come to one’s house – and do I have 'em here for my instruction, why, you may come and have the benefit as well.

Thea looked at her with some suspicion. Really?

Really! Is it not entirely answerable? She leaned over to feel the teapot. This is quite cold – let me ring for more – take another cake –

And when all that had been done, Thea nodded her head and said, entirely answerable, could not suppose even Papa could have any objections.

Zipsie had carefully not mentioned any possibility that her brother Oliver might come call while their lessons were in progress!