Charity Begins at Church (Dec. 26 Morn)- Xmas 1677

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles and Catherine

 

Though not sure, Charles was fairly sure that Fiona and Catherine had sized up the other. If they were jealous it would be flattering Charles supposed.

 

"So where is the Queen going that she needs the protection of the Life Guards?” she asked him.

 

"A royal secret," Charles jested in reply. "Sometimes there is a desire to move about the people without the recognition," he added cryptically. He supposed it was not really a lie because he did not say it was the Queen and she probably did have a desire to walk about her kingdom without the recognition. One way or the other he could make it truthful somehow he told himself. Little falsehoods were necessary and he needed to end her curiosity.

 

"Where shall we go now that you need my protection?" he offered with a smile and then looked to young Frances and back to Bradley, assuming his brother would want to moon over the new German maid to the Queen. Catherine would need to watch her mouth with his young ward present. He could not tarry overlong as he had another meeting.

[Aria]

Charles and Catherine

 

The Queen liked to traipse around in disguise? Catherine knew the King liked to conceal his identity, but she could hardly believe it of the Queen. An image of the German royal dressing like a man and frequenting inns amused her, but it was more likely that she preferred to visit churches in London without being recognized. To Catherine's knowledge, there were no church services on Monday. Maybe she just liked to pray alone.

 

Or it really was something that he could not tell her about, or didn't want to. Was the Queen and Charles …? No, that was too preposterous, but still a niggling suspicion wormed its way into her mind. Tomorrow, she would spend some time in the Queen's presence chamber incognito herself. If she spoke to the right people, she might discover Her Majesty's plans.

 

If only they were alone, she would be able to tell him exactly where she wished him to take her. They had spent most of last night together, but she wanted him still. Catherine looked over at his brother and ward. An idea came to her, and she 'accidentally' stumbled, kicking up a bit of snow and falling toward Charles. She grasped his arm to regain her balance. While she was close enough, she whispered: “Meet me tonight. I know you want to.”

 

Releasing his arm, she stepped back and smoothed down her skirt. “I was about to say I don't need your protection, but it seems like I was wrong.” This was said for the benefit of their companions.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia and Ursula

 

“Very well,” Sophia agreed. “Maybe by next Sunday, everything will be settled and it will be safe for me to visit and sing for the patients.” She thought about asking if she could accompany the person the Queen selected, but she was rather certain that Ursula would refuse her offer. Once a German made a decision, it was nearly impossible to coerce them into changing their mind. Lady Mountjoy did not want the young Baroness involved in the investigation, and that was that.

 

What she didn't know, however, wouldn't hurt her.

 

“Please don't mention this to my lord husband when I bring him to you tomorrow,” she suggested. “The Spanish are very cautious and I fear that if he knows what happened at Bedlam, he will forbid me from doing any further charitable work at other locations. I feel a calling to help the poor and unfortunate. I believe it is part of God's will for my life.”

 

With any luck, Lady Mountjoy would deliver that piece of information to the Queen.

[Douglas FitzJames]

The MacBains and the Osbornes

 

All three of the girls were polite to the Osbornes, even Fiona whom he’d half expected would pull a face just because there was another woman in the group. She even went out of her way to encourage Brigit to join them. In that moment Douglas couldn’t have felt prouder of his family. It was perhaps fortunate that he was looking at the Osbornes and not at the girls and didn’t see Fiona’s eyes narrow.

 

It was a shame that Brigit did not seem inclined to be so gracious. “Aye, the best Inn in London.” Douglas replied evenly. He could perhaps understand a lady’s hesitation, but she would be in male company so it shouldn’t be a problem. “I un’erstand tis bein’ closed fer the event, which is by invitation ainly.”* Though by all account those invitations had been spread pretty widely; no doubt the Osbornes had one sitting unregarded somewhere.

 

Peregrine meanwhile smirked knowingly when Brigit declined, and seemed to be eyeing Fiona. Douglas pretended not to notice. His first impulse was to try to pressure Brigit into joining them, but he recalled Lady Lucas’ words to him. Be somewhat distance, don’t seem desperate. Regardless of the fact that his interest was political, it was likely good advice.

 

“Haps some other time thain.”** He said politely, then turned his attention to her brother as though Brigit’s refusal – indeed the woman herself – was of no further consequence. Not ignored or avoided, just not particularly important.

 

“I un’erstand that there’s tae be twelve courses, an’ likely games.” At least he hoped so. Games might mean prizes, and Fiona would love that. “T’shuid be a guid e’en. We’ll see ye taemorrer.” The last comment was clearly directed at Peregrine rather than his sister. “Hae a pleasant efternuin.”*** Douglas bowed politely to the pair. It was probably time to get the girls home.

 

Subtitles

* “Yes, the best Inn in London. I understand it’s being closed for the event, which is by invitation only.”

** “Perhaps some other time then.”

** “I understand that there’s to be twelve courses, and likely games. It should be a good evening. We’ll see you tomorrow. Have a pleasant afternoon.”

[Blackguard]

Cavendish Corner

 

John asked Devonshire whether he might like to leave. At first, the man protested but then began coughing again. Unable to speak, he waved at Winchester's departure. Only after sipping something from his hip flask did the coughing subside. It was most likely whiskey.

 

"I suppose I should go," the Earl offered at last. Most of the courtiers were filing out anyway. Billy helped his father stand but knew better than to offer him an arm to steady him. The old man had his pride. As such, Devonshire and the Devonshire Cavendishes moved towards the exit, expecting to escort the scion to the coach.

 

Francis and Charles Sackville

 

"I suppose it would be better to target someone other than an ambassador's wife," Dorset conceded. It could cause an international incident. Sighing, the blond earl added "that won't prevent another from trying. A pretty face, heaving bosoms, and a dour husband are just the right mixtures," he jested, thinking he might still win the bet.

 

"Not enough heaving bosoms present Francis," he whispered as he looked about the church; "or is it just me? I do not mean at church of course." He meant the anatomy of the latest class of debutantes.

 

Sophia

 

"If you keep your word about leaving the matter to others, I see no reason to tell your husband," Ursula replied. Husbands had the right to know what their wives were about, except in delicate situations. "I shall look forward to seeing you tomorrow," he added as she turned towards other petitioners that were forming a line to see her, including the Duchess of Newcastle. They were holding back, giving Sophia and Ursula a moment of privacy.

[Aria]

The MacBains and Osbornes

 

Stuck-up bitch, Fiona thought. You're not too good for the inn. It's too good for you. She had only been pretending when she had implied that she would rather not be seen there. This idiotic priss was serious, even though she was apparently shunned by those she considered her equals. Even Douglas' reassurances didn't sway her.

 

Fiona was not immune to the way Peregrine was eying her. She stole a quick glance at him, smiling winsomely, before turning her attention back to his sister. “That's too bad,” she said sweetly “The three of us will miss you.” The tone of her voice implied that they would have so much fun that they wouldn't even spare her a thought. You'll regret it later, because I'll have your brother and you won't get mine.

 

Surprisingly, Douglas didn't attempt to charm Bridget into changing her mind. Maybe he didn't fancy her. Fiona turned toward Peregrine as Douglas spoke to him, giving him a saucy little wink at the mention of games. There were games she would like to play with him that could easily be done in an inn … just not in the common room.

 

Douglas seemed ready to leave, and she nodded politely to both of them, not feeling the need to say anything further. Shona and Aileen smiled at Bridget and Peregrine and prepared to follow their brother.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia leaving Ursula and trying to catch Douglas' eye

 

Germans weren't just blunt and stubborn. They were also clever. Sophia understood Lady Mountjoy's warning. If she went snooping about Bedlam again, Ursula might inform her husband. It was a way to ensure that she kept her word. Yet how would she know if the young Baroness returned? Maybe the warden would mention her visit to the gentleman the Queen sent to investigate. Perhaps the next time she went, she should dress as a commoner and wear a wig to cover up her flaxen curls. She wouldn't be able to disguise her accent, though, but she could let Douglas do most the talking.

 

“Thank you, my lady. I will not go back until you tell me that it is safe.” She dropped a polite curtsy, aware that there were others waiting to speak to the Queen's Mistress of the Stole. “I look forward to it too, and to introducing you to my lord husband.” Hopefully, Esteban would make a good impression on Ursula. Sophia didn't know whether or not she had a poor opinion of Spaniards, but hopefully tomorrow, she would look upon them more favorably … and speak well of the Spanish Ambassador to the Queen. “I hope you have a lovely day.”

 

She smiled at the Duchess of Newcastle and curtsied to her as she passed. Sophia wanted to meet her but it was probably better to let Lord Maldon introduce them than to just walk up to her and strike up a conversation. Waiting for an introduction seemed much more English, and there was less of a chance that she would be snubbed.

 

It wasn't difficult to spot the tall lanky figure of Lord Dundarg. He was with his sisters and another couple whom she had seen before but never met. Since Esteban did not attend Protestant services, this was a good time to speak to him and she needed to tell him that she had brought the situation at Bedlam to the attention of the Queen.

 

As she approached them, she smiled at the little group and tossed her head slightly while looking at Douglas. Hopefully, he would see that as a sign that she wished to speak to him alone. She walked on past, strolling around the area slowly to give him time to catch up, if he had seen her hint. If not, she would find somebody else to converse with and they could speak together at a later time.

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina and Her Brother

 

Her little group of Merry Maids continued on discussing plans, gossiping, when a familiar voice called out and they halted as one.

 

Davina saw it was her brother and she could hardly not do as he was asking so she smiled at her friends and then sent then onward.

 

"Richard? You were at Church?"

 

She quietly asked surprise clearly in her tone as she reached his side.

[Blackguard]

Douglas

 

Bridget was relieved that Douglas did not press further. There were only so many ways to say no. The Scot then mentioned a closed affair with 12 courses and games. That did not seem like inn meals she knew. However, it was too late to show interest. "I hope you all have a good time," Danby's daughter replied insincerely. "If you will excuse me." With that, she began to move away.

 

Peregrine fought a smirk and added "I like games." He looked dismissively at his sister and then looked at Fiona with a sly smile. "I shall look forward to seeing you tomorrow. I best see that my sister gets to her coach," he tried to explain.

 

Davina

 

"Yes, I was at the service," Richard replied defensively. Davina knew that he had converted to Anglican and wanted her to do likewise.

 

"I want to know why you abandoned me last night? I asked you to help me meet ladies of quality and then you went off having a grand time." He looked annoyed. "Meanwhile, I have been looking for husbands for you." He paused to see if she was interested.

[Douglas FitzJames]

The MacBains and the Osbornes separating, with a cameo by Sophia

 

Fiona had been doing so well. Right up until the point where her saccharinely insincere tone clashed with her claim they’d miss Brigit. That lit a little spark under Douglas’s temper, which she’d managed to avoid so far this season. Church was not the place to give her an earful however, she would keep.

 

As for Brigit, he wouldn’t beg. She seemed the kind of woman who would delight in turning him down. And if she had any regrets on declining once he’d mentioned the nature of the night, she might then not be quite so quick to decline in future. Or not.

 

Peregrine would do admirably, Douglas’s interest in the pair was political, though from the way that he and Fiona were looking at each other, their interest was otherwise. Well and good. So Peregrine liked games? “Dinnae we aw.”* Douglas agreed, one Libertine to another, who might not care what Peregrine might or might not get up to with his sister.

 

In that moment a familiar figure, that of a petite, blonde German lady, drifted past, and glanced over at him, jerking her head in a clear indication that she wanted him to follow. Douglas dipped his head very slightly to Sophia, before concentrating once more on the conversation at hand.

 

As it was the Osbornes were excusing each other, Peregrine saying he needed to see his sister to her coach. “An’ I mun do the same. Until taemorrer.” ** Douglas doffed his hat to the pair, then began herding the three girls towards the waiting coaches.

 

“Whit part o’ ‘I need yer help’ did ye nae un’erstand, Fee?”*** He asked quietly as they neared the coach. There was a growl to his voice that said clearly that he wasn’t pleased.

 

Subtitles

* “Don’t we all.”

** “And I must do the same. Until tomorrow.”

*** “What part of ‘I need your help’ did you not understand, Fee?”

[Aria]

The MacBains and Osbornes parting

 

Bridget seemed a bit too eager to leave them. Your loss, Fiona thought. I'll be having a wonderful time with two handsome gentlemen and you'll be sitting in your room alone with a sour expression on your face. I hope it freezes that way.

 

She didn't even look after the other lady as she began to walk off. Her attention was mesmerized by Lord Osborne. If he had not read her hint correctly, he probably wouldn't have said he liked games. Douglas agreed. “Since it is a party, the games will probably be exciting,” she couldn't resist adding.

 

Had Doug seen the way Peregrine looked at her? Perhaps he approved? Fiona had no intention of marrying him unless she found out he was the heir to a Duchy, but they could certainly have fun together.

 

He had to see his sister to their coach? Was she so stupid she couldn't find it on her own? Fiona smiled flirtatiously and gave him a playful wave as she followed her brother and sisters to where their carriage awaited. Dougie's words surprised her, and she didn't miss his warning growl. Even Shona and Aileen stepped backwards.

 

Fiona, however, stood her ground, placing both hands on her hips. “What did I do wrong? I asked her to join us. It wasn't my fault she refused. She was against the idea from the beginning. I could see it in her eyes. What else could I have done? Don't tell me you expected me to fall on my knees, clutch at her skirts, and beg.”

 

The younger girls watched with wide eyes. Shona wished the ground would open up and swallow her. Aileen wanted to throw snowballs at both of them. Wet snow in their faces would stop them from arguing.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia alone

 

Lord Dundarg had seen her and nodded slightly, but had he understood that she wished to speak to him? Her hint had not been very obvious. Maybe he needed to excuse himself from his current company before he joined her. Her news could wait if he was busy. They wouldn't go back to Bedlam right away. Their next visit would have to wait until at least Tuesday, after she and Esteban met with Ursula.

 

Sophia continued her slow stroll. She saw many people she knew, but they were all occupied. Her eyes traveled around the area, hoping that someone would look her way and beckon her over. She had discovered that barging in on conversations was mostly frowned upon by the English, and after the opera, she was already walking a thin line when it came to propriety.

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina with her Brother

 

She was genuinely surprised at his being there - however much he rattled on about showing this Public side of his supposed 'conversion'.

 

Choosing to let the first slide she instead focused on the second and his apparent annoyance at her lack of sisterely help.

 

"Really?" She replied a touch cooly. "I did nor 'abandon' you Richard so please use a tone not so accurisority - if you will remember I said I would search out those I thought suitable, and I did, and send them your way - you can hardly blame me if no one did."

 

She kept a half smile on her face not willing to have any think there was discourse being played out between them.

 

'Even if last nights theme was backwards there were many Gentlemen that did the asking - even Basildon applied his charms on me - so why did you not do the same? Don't tell me you sulked about the Hall all that time ...."

 

That thought brought forth a small laugh which she concelaed behind a gloved hand.

 

"THAT is a topic I will not discuss least of all here. I can just imagine the list you've compiled and I'd wager its much the same as the last. Have you spoken with my Mistress?"

 

A nagging thought crept forward and she was suddenly aware that if the Queen had taken him into her own confidence then she was double doomed for both would not be put off.

 

"I ask simply because I deserve to know if my own plans will be undermined. I too have been weeding out and concluded at least two. I warn you Baintree don't pledge me blind."

 

She had been stepping from side to side as they talked her feet feeling the cold even thru her boots and the furred collar of her cloak was bound up high aganist her neck and ears but even then she was chilled. Her cheeks were pink tinged and her eyes held the glitter of temper being held under control.

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles and Catherine

 

“Meet me tonight. I know you want to.”

 

There was little time for a rejoinder. "No. You are infatuated enough with me already," he laughed as he held her close for a moment. "Besides, I may need a week to recover from last night," he jested.

 

In truth, he could be ready again that night. He was in his prime. Yet, he wanted to save his powder for Davina on the morrow so that he could go numerous rounds with her. He could be with Catherine any night but a rendezvous with Davina was a rare thing.

 

Now being heard by Bradley and Frances Charles played along "yes, it is obvious that you need me." He expected that Frances was too young to understand the allusion and that Bradley was too distracted. He laughed aloud certain he had just scored a point in their ongoing game.

[Nicolette Vauquelin]

Basildon's Clan - sans Basildon

 

Nicolette spoke in a hush with Noni as they exited the church, unaware of her cousin being waylaid momentarily indoors.

 

"... it's a shock at first you must admit, grotesque, yet magnificent all at once." Nicci completed with a giggle, then turning to discover Louis absent, yet the cheerful Lord Winchester just now catching them up, and he with gentlemanly grace as he reentered their reduced fray.

 

"Ah, but we ladies do adore the chance for a little 'girl' talk milord." Nicci replied with a mischievous look to Noni. Such a sweet lady, and Nicci with such an urge to lead her astray.

 

Then glancing past James, Nicolette idly wondered to Lord Chatham's 'calling' and his progress that led him in the Merry Gangs company back towards the palace, her own dare forgotten. He seemed to be lost to the libertine crowd. Le sigh. A pout appeared briefly.

 

But Lord Winchester had dropped a hint of his own preferred topic, so Nicci attended, "I trust todays call for your calling was satisfactorily resolved?" she smiled.

[Ambrose Turnbull]

Merry Gang

 

The Lieutenant distracted a time, before the pending movements of his fellows rose about. "God speed," he farewelled Dorset who took himself away, a man seemingly intent to pursue politics over jovality. Ambrose for his part watched where he was headed and briefly wondered if he might be wise to follow suit?

 

Merriweather's out of the blue comment about the nearby Scottish family then drew Ambrose's raised eyebrow. The mans humor seemed to have been lost. Perhaps he was being lined up to marry one of the mouthy girls? Whatever the reason, he did not seem happy in his observations. "Come along and join us in the cellar," Ambrose encouraged, "better that pit than the other. Staying here looks to be preparing yourself for a morgue. Egads, I've never seen a chap turn grey so quick." A grin. A shove. A wink.

 

But Ambrose's linger was brief, before he turned and made a hop and skip to catch up to the rest of the troupe.

 

 

OOC: I'll join that thread

[Aria]

Charles and Catherine

 

Catherine didn't like being turned down, even in a playful way. She wanted to insist that she visit him this evening but she would have had to pull him away from his family and speak to him privately, which she doubted he would appreciate. They had spent the last two nights romping between the sheets with wild and enthusiastic passion. Maybe he did need a night to recover. And a day without her would make him realize how much he missed her. “Then tomorrow night,” she whispered while he momentarily held her close. Surely, he couldn't deny her that.

 

Unfortunately, she had set herself up for his next retort in their little game. What could she say that would be witty but safe around his brother and his ward? She supposed that Bradley might be aware of Catherine's relationship with his brother but Frances looked too young to find boys attractive. “And you like it,” she finally replied in a flippant tone of voice. It was a succinct and neutral comment but he would understand what she meant.

[Louis Killington]

Basildon and Finch Senior

 

There were quick greetings aplenty as Louis moved down the aisle to his uncle, the Royal Chancellor. Greetings were exchanged. "A Happy Sabbath. Young Heneage seems in fine spirits," Louis commented. Did the father know his son was in love again?

 

"I am planning to host a dinner with all the diplomats and lords of the privy counsel," Louis advised. "Expect to receive an invitation. Without Parliament to distract us, we need a good argument about politics on the Continent and England's proper place. It should be excellent entertainment I think."

[Guest]

Devonshire Cavendishes

 

John nodded to Devonshire, glad that he was at least better. John followed along quietly, giving a look of concern to Cavendish but otherwise remaining quiet. He himself was walking with a cane, albeit a fashionable one rather than one meant for genuine support. He took note of the Osbornes but before anything could be done they were otherwise approached. John felt some sympathy for their exclusion. He hoped that dancing with Ogle had gone better for Bridget than it had for Caroline.

[Douglas FitzJames]

The MacBains

 

Douglas pretended he didn’t noticed the fullness of the looks that passed between Peregrine and Fiona. Let them think he thought they were merely friendly, although he probably wasn’t fooling Peregrine. It really made no difference.

 

As Fiona stood up to him, hands on hips, the big man narrows his eyes at her. “Och aye, yer words sayed ‘join us’; yer tone o’ voice sayed ‘I’d rather see ye deed’.” He replied. “Ye cannae mak an enemy o’ every woman at coort Fee.”* Although she seemed bent on trying. Men were not oblivious to catty tones of voice either.

 

“That failin’ aside, ye did weel, aw o’ ye.” He smiled at the two younger girls. “Like I sayed, this is politics. Tis time ye started learning’t.” He added with a look at Fiona. “I weel hexplain taemorrer, an' I'll hae a wee ochie fer my guid girls.”** This time hsi gaze took in all three of them, so that Fiona knew she was included.

 

She at least was old enough to learn about politicsand needed to stop doing as much damage as she did, even if he wasn’t much better. With that done he held the door of the MacBain coach open for the girls to get in. Then he would go an find Sophia.

 

Subtitles

* “Oh yes, your words said ‘join us’; your tone said ‘I’d rather see you dead’.

** “That failing aside, you did well, all of you. Like I said, this is politics. It’s time you started learning it. I will explain tomorrow, and I'll have a little something for my good girls.”

[Aria]

The MacBains

 

“Did you see the way she looked at me?” Fiona fumed. “It was quite clear that she thought she was better than us, even though I am a Viscountess and she is obviously in disfavor. Everyone here but you were shunning her.” She tossed her auburn curls defiantly. “I don't make enemies of every woman I meet. I'm just choosy when it comes to my friends.” So choosy that she didn't have any at all, but she wasn't about to let Douglas know that.

 

Fiona wasn't interested in politics, but she did wonder at Douglas' reasons for attempting to befriend the Osbornes. Why was he so secretive about it? If he wanted to, he could explain it right now. At least it didn't seem to involve him marrying Bridget.

 

Shona was more politically inclined than Fiona, perhaps because she read so many historical books where the subject figured prominently. She looked forward to finding out what her brother's plans were concerning the Osbornes, as well as why everyone had avoided them. They must have done something to displease the King.

 

Aileen just wanted to throw a snowball at somebody. She was still too young to be concerned with courtly intrigue. Her ears perked up when Douglas said he would have gifts for them tomorrow. Fiona and Shona were equally intrigued and their eyes sparkled with anticipation. None of them asked what he planned to give them, because they loved to be surprised.

 

“I can't wait until tomorrow!” Aileen exclaimed as she entered the coach. Shona and Fiona followed her inside. For once Fiona remained silent, for she was afraid that if she made him mad, Douglas would change his mind about taking her to the inn with him. She really wanted to get to know Lord Osborne better.

[James Winchester]

Nicci and the Winchesters

 

It was good to see the ladies chatting together and enjoying each other’s company. Noni hadn’t been allowed many friends by the Duchess of Savoy, and was still finding her feet as a married but otherwise independent woman. James encouraged her to explore ideas and meet new people, and he was pleased to see her doing so.

 

He idly waved away Nicci’s apologetic explanation. “Of course, and so you should. Life would be very boring if we only spoke to the same people all the time.” He said. Some men, it was true, did not like to see women talking and giggling together, convinced that they were laughing about men, but James was perhaps surprisingly lacking in insecurities. “Perhaps you two should go shopping together, or take the dogs for a walk in the park some time.” He suggested. Assuming of course that Noni would want to, but she appeared to be enjoying herself.

 

“Not entirely.” James admitted to Nicci’s question. “But a good physician respects a patient’s privacy.” And so he did. He would send some generic cough medicine to the address Lord Maldon had supplied, and see what if anything eventuated.

 

But he wasn’t going to dwell on it. “May I ask what brought you to England, Madamoiselle?” James enquired, for something to talk about. Nicci was as French as baguettes and berets. Perhaps there was a story there. If nothing else she and his wife would be able to talk in that language.

[Blackguard]

Davina with Her Brother

 

"The only thing sent my way were servants with drinks," Richard sulked. "What could I do but parade around the floor like some newcomer. I spoke with some ambassadors and some older ladies, but there was not one offer from an eligible young lady. I might as well not even have been there."

 

She insisted about not discussing her need for a match; yet, in Baintree's mind, this was the perfect time to discuss it. "I rarely see you any more, so we need to speak now if we are to get you matched in the new year." He was not disclosing whether he had spoken with the Queen or not.

 

"If you do not wish to be bound blind, then you had best speak with me. I need to know your thoughts and you mine. I have spoken with Norfolk and have an idea," he offered cryptically. "Come walk with me. We've no time to lose. Pieces are moving on the game board as we speak. Now tell me who you want to be your match first." He would allow her to suggest something before revealing his own idea.

[Douglas FitzJames]

The MacBains with Douglas leaving

 

Yes, bloody choosy. I’ve yet to see anyone make the grade. Of course Douglas had seen the look, and really he wasn’t surprised at Fiona’s reaction, just frustrated by it. But he told himself he couldn’t get too angry with her, it wasn’t entirely her fault. The fact was that no one had really seen to her upbringing; even Cat only seemed to herd her and have the occasional row with her. Someone had to teach her, and it looked like that someone was him.

 

Well, it tomorrow they could have a discussion on the psychology of dealing with people one didn’t like. He’d just have to find a way to fit it into Fiona’s narrow view of the world. Instead he let it go, grinned at Aileen’s exclamation, assured all three that they would have a fun day, and shut the door on them. Let it end on a pleasant note, they could fight later if necessary.

 

Douglas approaches Sophia

 

In the meantime he had someone to meet. There, strolling gently, Sophia’s deliciously curvaceous figure wandered between people, not so far away. He watched appreciatively for a few moments before he wandered over. He’d only just heard that she’d apparently stripped on stage during the Opera; never more did he regret the deep snows which had made him late to court this season. That would have been a wonderous sight. A Libertine at heart, if I ever saw one.

 

“Lairdy Toledo.” He bowed when she turned to look at him. “A blessed Sabbath tae ye.”* He added with a smile and an outstretched hand for hers, if she would let him kiss it.

 

“Hae ye heardit frae Her Grace, perchance?”** He asked, giving an excuse for the conversation for anyone who sought to overhear.

 

Subtitles

* “Lady Toledo. A blessed Sabbath to you.”

** “Have you heard from Her Grace, perchance?”

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Douglas and Sophia

 

The young Ambassador's wife turned at the sound of footsteps behind her, a disarming smile turning up the corners of her lips when she saw the handsome form of Lord Dundarg approaching her. So he had understood her subtle hint.

 

Her heart fluttered in her chest as he smiled and bowed to her. He was as charming as ever, and while she had told herself time and time again that they were now no more than very dear friends, she believed that she would always be a little bit in love with him. Every now and then, he danced through her dreams, and when she awoke, she always felt a poignant longing for what could never be.

 

“A happy Sabbath to you too, Lord Dundarg.” She held up her small hand for him to kiss, and was surprised at how strongly she yearned for his lips to brush against her fingers. Her entire body tingled pleasantly in anticipation of his touch.

 

“No, I have not,” she replied. “If I do not hear from her soon, I shall send her a letter.” Her voice lowered to a whisper “I just told Lady Mountjoy about the situation at Bedlam and asked her to inform the Queen. Do you think I did the right thing? I still want to go back if you want to investigate further. If the warden is really abusing or neglecting the patients, he might try to cover it up during an official inquiry. We might be able to find out more on our own, especially if he is distracted by preparing for a visit by the Queen's representative.”

[Blackguard]

Devonshire Cavendishes

 

The Earl made it back to his coach without incident, paying no heed to other courtiers. Once back at his coach, he insisted upon getting into it on his own and waved off offers of assistance. The younger Cavendish stepped back and let his father get in. "I think we will ride back with you father," he offered, looking to assist his wife into the coach. "Perhaps a meal together and then we will be on our way." John was invited to join them.

 

"You should stay and visit with others," Devonshire insisted, holding a handkerchief to his mouth. "I will be fine." He began coughing again but waved off assistance.

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles and Catherine

 

"Maybe you can come to dinner tomorrow night," Charles relented to Catherine. He supposed his mistress should meet his brother and his wards more formally. It was not like she was going away anytime soon.

 

There was another reason as well. No doubt he would be shagged out after his tryst with Davina earlier in the day, so he could feign an illness or something so that he might go to bed early and avoid sex with Catherine.

 

“And you like it”

 

"Not as much as you," he taunted back. He paused to look about who he might greet before leaving. He had already nodded to the McBains. Sophia was speaking with Douglas. He looked for Beverley but did not see them. He might like to say hello to Rupert or Gerard, but he did not see them in the crowd either. Fortunately, York would be at the Catholic service so they would not need to worry about seeing him.

[Aria]

Charles and Catherine

 

“I would be delighted,” she replied. He would have to make their meeting sound innocent in front of his family, but Catherine believed that his main purpose for inviting her to dinner was so that they could share 'dessert' alone in his bedchamber after his brother and ward had retired. If she wasn't so certain that the night would end in shagging, she would have asked to bring Caroline along. She did hope that Charles would wish to see her soon. Maybe he would even buy her a Christmas gift. It was possible that she was his daughter, after all.

 

“Only in your dreams,” she threw back. It wasn't a very creative retort, but she couldn't let him have the last word. Her eyes followed his as he looked around the area. He had better not be searching for Fiona MacBain or he would be served a piece of her mind along with his dinner tomorrow night.

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina with her Brother

 

He suggested they walk and she accepted but she was silent as he spoke of the topic at hand aware that he was well with his bounds and knew too that she had to answer him.

 

That he had not see the Queen she had to accept weather true or not.

 

"Norfolk?" She said the name a puff of white on the morning air. "What are you about - think you that 'Cousin Henry' tis better for me that the one he is pledged to? Would the Families support it is the question and yes, I too have thought it."

 

No point in trying to be coy or trying to think she was not seeming to misunderstand his meaning.

 

"Henry is Catholic still and I think will remain so. In truth such a plan will not be an easy thing for those Families that support the intended Bride will not easily sway to our side and those that are not yet supportive will need persuading."

 

"What is happening Richard that pushes you now? Tell me for tis my Life that is being played with."

 

"My names .... Well do you want those purposed or mine own?"

 

They began a slow circumnavigation of the Church yard clearly in some conversation.

[Blackguard]

Davina and Richard

 

"I don't mean cousin Henry," Richard replied. That match would not likely work. yet, before he explained himself further, he was intrigued to hear that his sister might have a list of her own. Why reveal his own cards when she had cards to reveal first?

 

"You are not getting any younger sister," Richard replied to her query It was code for a lady getting a bit old for a match. There were other reasons as well, including facilitating his own match, but he kept that to himself.

 

"Your own list then. I would hear from your own lips who you wish to marry ... who you think would be the best match for yourself." This should be interesting.