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

[Aria]

Louis and Lucy

 

Lucy followed her brother over to the side of the chapel. “You must have heard about the event that is taking place this morning. Any gentleman who pledges five hundred pounds to the Queen's charities gets to light a candle at the altar. Her ladies are competing to sell the most candles. I really really want to win.”

 

She was about to say more, but the King and Queen arrived. There wasn't much time before she had to report to Lady Mountjoy. “You will buy one, won't you, Louis? And when Francis arrives, tell him that he is donating too.” Lucy was quite certain that her husband would not want to miss this opportunity.

[Aria]

Charles and Catherine

 

Charles seemed to be in fine form today, both in looks and in wit. Before she could retort, a herald announced the King and Queen. Catherine watched them move up the aisle and once they had passed, she made a point of glancing at the pews around her. Leaning toward Charles, she whispered: “Considering how the chapel has filled up, I'm surprised that there was a seat left. Now I wonder how many people you turned away just to save a place for me. You're just trying to make me jealous by saying you were saving it for somebody else. We both know how besotted you are with me.”

[James Winchester]

The Wentwoods and the Basildons

 

“Excellent.” James greeted Basildon’s acceptance of the invitation warmly. “We’ll look forward to your company.” He would have to get onto the planning and invitations. A chance to further his acquaintance with Louis and the opportunity of a new friend for Noni were not to be sniffed at.

 

There was an obvious physical resemblance between Lord Basildon and the lady who came to his side, and when she asked to borrow her brother the penny dropped. Lucy Seymour nee Killington, the Duchess of Somerset. Now there was an impressive match; it spoke of Basildon’s influence. “Of course Your Grace.” James replied politely. Who would refuse such a request?

 

A moment later the herald announced the arrival of the Royal couple, and James rose to his feet with the rest of the congregation, bowing in respect as the pair passed. The older King and his young wife. Please let the rumours be true. At least here York was absent; chaos would ensure if Charles Rex died without an heir closer than his brother, James knew that.

 

Behind them trailed the King’s men and the Queen’s ladies began to flock to her. There was no chance to further conversations now, but James smiled across at Nicolette and mused that already this season seemed full of opportunities.

[Louis Killington]

Louis and Lucy

 

There really was no choice. His sister was a lady to the Queen. He was now a wealthy and influential lord with ambitions at court -- ambitions that might be aided or thwarted by the Queen. Although Karoline had yet to seem to wield much influence with her husband, she might be able to poison his mind against someone. He was seated next to a physician that was linked to the Queen. There was no opportunity to decline.

 

Whe there was no path backwards, Louis knew to embrace the path going forward. There would be a certain beneficial notoriety to being seen as a charitable lord. Those in the church would remember and he could use his newspapers to spread the word outside the palace about his family's charity.

 

"For you Lucy," he replied quietly. "Family must stick together." Louis was not above making his sister think that the only reason for his agreement was doing a favor for her, one that he would seek to have be repaid in the future. "I shall attempt to persuade your husband too," he pledged. There was little time to say more as the service was about to begin. With a nod, he was heading back to his seat.

[Douglas FitzJames]

The MacBain Tribe

 

The big man smiled fondly at his littlest sister as she set his hat aside carefully, and that smile carried over as his gaze moved on to Shona, always the shy one, and he reached across Aileen and squeezed Shona’s hand gently in encouragement. How the MacBains had bred someone so shy and retiring was a mystery, poor thing.

 

Last along the line was Fiona, and he returned her playful wave. He wasn’t sure where Cat was but it looked like Fiona must have got the three of them seated, and without any signs of war breaking out. Maybe she was growing up, after all.

 

She had certainly been behaving herself so far, or at least been more discreet. He hadn’t heard anything untoward come out of the Ball, and according to Cat there had been fewer arguments and less taunting. It was probably too much to hope that there would be none, but anything was an improvement. And the improvement had been noticeable. And if Fiona’s gaze wandered, he didn’t care, so long as the rest of her didn’t. In fact he followed her gaze, mildly curious as to who she was looking at. It always helped to know what – and who – was on another’s mind.

 

“Yer aw luikin’ verra bonnie this mornin’.”* Douglas whispered to his sisters, just before the royal herald announced the King and Queen’s arrival, bringing the congregation to it’s feet. Douglas bowed with the rest of the court as they passed, and as he straightened up his blue gaze focused not on the royal couple, but on the area about them. His suspicious mind looked as ever for dangers to them.

[Aria]

Louis and Lucy parting

 

Lucy didn't think about the political significance of the charitable contributions. All she cared about was selling the most candles and pleasing her mistress. She had thought that being a Duchess would immediately place her among the Queen's favorites, but that was not the case. One had to earn Her Majesty's confidence, something she was only just figuring out how to do.

 

“Thank you, Louis!” She believed what he said, that he was doing it for her. If they had not been in such a public place, she would have thrown her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek. As it was, she flashed one of her most disarming smiles. “I know you will be able to convince him,” she said about her husband. If Francis refused after she volunteered him, she would be very cross with him and wouldn't speak to him for days … maybe even a whole week!

 

“If Her Majesty lets us sit with our families, I will join you shortly. If not, I will be watching when you light your candle. Now I must go to the Queen.” As Louis headed back to his seat, Lucy flounced over to Lady Mountjoy.

[Aria]

The MacBain Tribe

 

Shona's smile brightened when Douglas reached over and squeezed her hand. His sweet gesture comforted her and let her know that he understood how she felt. She wished that she could move to his other side instead of sitting by Fiona. Her sister would probably whisper mean things in her ear or pinch her when the service began. She had been nicer lately but Shona knew it wouldn't last. When Fiona was nice, it usually meant she wanted a favor from either Cat or Dougie.

 

Fiona's eyes lit upon several gentlemen in the congregation, but for some reason they kept returning to Lieutenant Turnbull in the back of the chapel. Considering his behavior last night, he was the last person she expected to see in Church. Still, she admired his good looks and rather hoped that they would encounter each other again.

 

She smiled at Doug's compliment and turned her gaze back to him. “Thank you,” she whispered. “You look quite handsome yourself.”

 

“All the girls will want to kiss you.” Aileen chimed in, wrinkling her nose. She was still in the stage where she thought boys had cooties. Shona just smiled and blushed.

 

When the royals made their appearance, the three girls stood. Aileen openly gawked at them and Shona's eyes widened. Fiona wanted to strangle both of them. They were so unsophisticated! She sighed and shifted her position so that she was hidden behind Shona. If the King saw her, he might remember her and marry her off to some nobody he wanted a favor from.

[Blackguard]

The Service Begins

 

Lady Mountjoy met briefly with the ladies of the Queen to hear how they had fared being the emissaries of charitable giving. The Duke of Somerset had been delayed by a sour stomach, but was stopped by his wife as he tried to enter. There really was no question as to whether he would participate. Though not especially wealthy, compared to some lords, he agreed to light a candle for charity, giving his wife a second success. The Queen had spoken personally to some other lords as well.

 

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Richard Sterne, who had been the Archbishop of York not that long ago, came forward to give the sermon. It was something of a holiday tradition.

 

The sermon was built upon 1 Corinthians 13:13. "And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity." The point of the sermon was that, while difficult to have faith and to follow it, it was more difficult to be charitable. He noted that the holiday season was a time for reflection of helping others, rather than oneself. Forgiving trespasses by enemies. He spoke in a way that reflected an understanding of court rivalries and intrigues, tailoring the message to the elite, yet most petty, peers of the kingdom. Charity was an act of love and kindness for a stranger. It might seem a foreign concept to a court full of self-centered hedonists.

 

The Archbishop ended the sermon with a prayer for the kingdom, the King and the Queen. On the latter he wished her health and safety in delivering royal heirs to the kingdom. After the prayer he called out the Queen's devoutness and her love of charity, noting how lucky the kingdom was to have her as a model to others. He mentioned how the privileged were the best examples for others, but also that the privileged were required to serve the non-privileged. God had given one everything and the other nothing. It was a test to see who would heed God's call, for the weak would be as mighty as the strong in Heaven.

 

The Queen had chosen not to speak about the candles herself, so it fell to Sterne to do so on her behalf. Though candles were things that Catholics lit for causes, Sterne had agreed to grant a waiver at the request of the Queen to acknowledge the message of charity. Candles had been important to her family in celebrating Christmas.

 

So it was that the Archbishop called up to the front of the congregation those privileged lords who were vowing substantial financial support for the Queen's charities. To the front came: Cumberland; Buckingham; Norfolk; Somerset; Newcastle (represented by daughter Frances lighting the candle); Ablemarle; Pembrooke; Basildon; Dundarg, Wentwood (lit by Lady Wentwood) and two anonymous donors rounded out the 12 candles for the 12 days of Christmas.

 

The benediction was given and the service ended. The crowd took to their feet and the chapel became alive with conversation as further holiday greetings were exchanged and conversations varied from the sermon to those houses that had lit the candles. The royal couple took to their feet as well. The Queen went to thank the Archbishop while the King fraternized with the families seated in the front pews.

 

OOC~ You are free to carry on, go outside the chapel, and use this thread for continued conversations. By the way, I had to edit this post to correct it to add Douglas and James to the list and candle lighters. Apologies for the oversight. That is the danger of long threads.

[Francis Kirke]

Francis Being Gentlemanly[MA]

 

Any who knew Lord Kingston at all knew he was not the sort to preen for public attention, strangely enough for a courtier or cousin of Buckingham, but it was not his preferences that mattered, and so he found himself attending the King at a very packed Christmas service. If it was not enough to be under all of court's eye, now he would be under God's too.

 

He moved along behind the royal couple (with a few other Gentlemen of the Bedchamber) wearing his pale mint green and silver justacorps with a prettiness that would make both his mother and Buckingham proud. A thought that made him have to bite the inside of his lower lip to keep from smirking in amusement. The thought of Torture by Tailor did not help.

 

All credit for his impeccable outfit did not go to him, and by now Francis was fairly sure all of court realized that he lived under the auspices of his elder cousin, who liked to exert his ducal largesse like a finely adorned battering ram to any who might wish to outdo him. Honestly, he rather liked the ensemble, but he felt a bit too shiny and angelic with the colour scheme and his bright blond curls. Not to mention he looked far more youthful than his twenty-eight years.

 

The procession was slow. He chanced looks at his friends but kept his attention to his task as well-wishes and other obligations were made.

 

It seemed as long as the walk bearing the cross itself, he half consciously thought quite profanely.

 

When the sermon began he lamented that attending meant that he could not nap. Usually he made good use of sermons for napping, but he feigned rapt attention until it was over.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

John, The Cavendishes, and Sophia (who is looking around for Ursula)

 

Sophia sang as enthusiastically as always, her lovely soprano echoing through the chapel and seeming to come from everywhere at once. It was as natural as breathing for her to instinctively work with a building's acoustics. She didn't even realize what she was doing, but she did make sure she sang softly enough not to drown out the rest of the congregation. It was harder for her to sing quietly and took much more concentration than letting the full power of her voice fill the air. The young singer had to constantly hold back, which was quite draining.

 

As usual, she heard little of the sermon. She knew it was about being charitable and she thought it odd that everyone wanted to help others during the Christmas season and then forgot about them for the rest of the year. Sophia vowed to be like the Queen … concerned with helping the unfortunate all year round. It was the perfect way for an Ambassador's wife to show goodwill to her adopted country and she truly cared about the welfare of the poor, the ill, and the oppressed. Sophia thought the last term described the patients at Bedlam.

 

The rest of the sermon was spent daydreaming, both about her glorious nights with Juan and her upcoming meeting with Lord Arundel. She watched the candle-lighting ceremony with indifference, aware that most of the donors were more interested in being seen being charitable than because they actually cared. She smiled at John. He was an exception, as he had made an anonymous donation.

 

When the service was over, she stood up and curtsied to her companions. “It was a pleasure to meet you,” she said to Lord and Lady Cavendish, ignoring the husband in favor of the wife. She had not answered Sophia's question about her wardrobe and the petite blonde hoped she might be willing to go with her to Norringtons.

 

Turning to John, she curtsied to him too. “Thank you for inviting to me to sit with you, my lord.” He was one of her dearest friends, but in public, she still had to be formal.

 

She glanced around the chapel for Lady Mountjoy, who had told her she would speak to her when the service was over.

[Guest]

The Cavendish Corner

 

John doubted anyone would believe Sophia was embarrassed by attention. She was a skilled actress but that it was a play was apparent. So he just gave her a puzzled but welcoming look when she looked to him for approval. He did not seem to understand what she was asking.

 

The archbishop gave a decent homily. As he spoke both of how grand the Queen was and the various lords shuffled forward, John thought just a few lines earlier in Corinthians. Charity suffers long and is kind; charity envies not; charity vaunts not itself, is not puffed up. That didn’t stop him from noting his family had given more than the Howards. A lot of the Howards were in the wrong (that is, Catholic) church, but that was their mistake.

 

Sophia was daydreaming, which perhaps showed how proper she was. John gently tapped her foot with his when it was overly apparent but he didn’t mind: he was well aware of Sophia’s failings and they didn’t damage his affection for her. She still had many of the virtues John treasured in a person. When she smiled at him, he smiled back, happy in the expression of trust and a shared secret. When she thanked him, John smiled, “You are m-m-most welcome to sit with me any time, my lady.” While formal and polite the sentiment was very much genuine.

 

John resisted the urge to ask her what she wanted from Lady Mountjoy. He was tempted to pry and just barely resisted the urge, his mouth actually opening to ask the question before he shut it again. He distracted himself by observing his family and seeing what they were up to. They had been a bit quiet.

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina Amongst The Ladies

 

She had whispered her 'count' to Lady Mountjoy well enough pleased to have captured Norfolk and Ablemearle was simply icing. She had started with the full intentions of being the winner but now, well, here in this palce she could hardly gloat. Plus she could never be entirely sure that no one watched. True it was Christmas but that hardly mean that all the usual actions at Court came to a standstill.

 

She waited in her place within the Queen's entourage focused upon the Sermon but also allowing her gaze to wander as much as she could see without actually turning in her seat in the hopes she might find out where Charles sat - it appeared his brother had joined as well and she was interested to see how much they resembled each other - not that she intended to approach the younger Whitehurst in that way!

 

A sigh for her thoughts and when she felt the slight press of anothers' hand on hers realized that it must have been heard so her eyes opened a bit wider thinking that the Queen might have heard it or even Lady Mountjoy but she was reassured by her fellow Maid of Honor who smiled back making a small face as if to say 'will it Ever end'.

 

Davina suppressed a chuckle managing to not alter her features that much as she looked directly forward easing one stocking foot from her shoe - asking to borrow someone else's shoes was never a good idea and now, after all her running round before Service, her toes were feeling too cramped.

 

But finally it ended and she stood with the rest of the Company waiting to be dismissed or commanded to another place. She Prayed it was the former.

[Blackguard]

Cavendish Corner

 

Devonshire started to cough at the end of things. He had held it as best he could during the ceremony. Will bid Sophia farewell and moved to his father's side. Lady Cavendish seemed to forget Sophia's invitation and bid a quick goodbye before heading to see the Butlers who were seated not far away.

 

All

 

The Duchesses of Newcastle and Ablemarle conspired together to take Frances Cavendish to meet the Queen. They had been throwing her in the path of Karoline routinely. Only a fool would be blind to their intentions.

 

Francis would not see George Legge in the crowd. It was likely that York asked him to accompany him to the Queen's Chapel for the Catholic service. George was never happy about it, but he made due, as did Churchill on occasion. Francis would see Frances Stuart in her Sunday best attire, sitting next to Arlington. She was paying him scant attention as he babbled on about something. Instead, she offered Francis a smile when he looked her way.

 

Lady Mountjoy took her leave of the Queen, releasing all her ladies to mill about with the congregation. Young ladies did love to mingle with attractive lords. She was not blind to that. Thus, Davina was free to do as she wished. She would see that Charles was with his family, a young girl of about 12, and his notorious mistress Catherine Sedley. Sophia could meet Ursula outside if she wished.

 

Douglas might note that he received more looks and smiles from the courtiers in the crowd. No doubt his charitable gift had affected his reputation somewhat to the good. Peregrine sat with his sister, looking amused for some reason. He caught Douglas' eye. Could the lanky Scot convince his sister to join them for lunch? Fat chance. He predicted. His sister was such a priss that she'd likely have nothing to do with a bastard Scottish baron.

 

The Merry Gang stood in unison. they were as bored as anyone, none of them being particularly pious. "I'd have given a donation if I could have lit the candle with my prick," Rochester muttered irreverently. "Likely you would have burned your cock, which might be good for the bloody thing," Sedley replied. The Gang knew he had the pox. It was unclear what would kill him first -- the pox or the mercury. "I'm surprised a Scot parted with his money," Alexander noted. "Though did you notice how blue his eyes are?" "No," replied Roos indignantly. "Newcatsle has been parading his daughter before the Queen," Dorset noted aloud. "And to you Charles," Sedley added. "I need a stiff drink," Rochester lamented sourly.

[Guest]

The Cavendish Corner

 

After Sophia left John moved over to Devonshire in much the same way Cavendish did. He didn't actually say anything but his look and his hover was an obvious inquiry into whether the lord was alright or if he could help.

[Charles Audley]

The Merry Gang

 

Charles almost vomited during the sermon. Nothing to do with his migraine, thankfully. He merely found the cloying stench of hypocrisy and sycophancy emanating from the Archbishop and the front of the chapel absolutely nauseating.

 

I am forcibly reminded why I scrupulously avoid religion. And pious hypocrites. And boring old farts. But I repeat myself.

 

Lips curled contemptuously, Charles stood with his companions.

 

"And I might have donated had it not been such a crass ambush." He shook his head. "Do we even know where these donations are going? Beyond the nebulous concept of charity, I mean."

 

He ran his gaze over the congregation once more, still irked by the cack-handed attempts at emotional manipulation.

 

"And I feel the need for a smoke. Might clear the smell of piety from my nostrils." He looked around their little gathering. "Would any of you gentlemen care to join me?"

[Douglas FitzJames]

The MacBain Tribe

 

Fiona's gaze drifted around, but returned several times to a young Life Guard Lieutenant with whom Douglas was not familiar. Some new arrival presumably. Who was he? Douglas hadn't heard of any important sons and heirs joining, which suggested a younger son. Honestly, Fiona had the strangest taste in men. She claimed she'd only marry a Duke, but she'd shag any nobody that looked exciting. Not that he considered that a bad thing in other women, since it worked in his favour, just not in his sister. He was entirely comfortable with the double standard.

 

Ah well, such was family. He smiled in turn when she returned the compliment, then grinned at Aileen's expression of distaste. "That's a guid thin'."* He assured her, on the subject of girls wanting to kiss him. She probably didn't believe him, but she'd learn in a few years.

 

The sermon was pretty much what he expected, with a big emphasis on charity and giving which went along with the whole candle business. As the sermon ended, those who had donated were called up to light their candles. All Dukes and Earls except for him and a Baroness. He imagined that was the unexpected one. He resisted the urge to look over at the Royals as he walked back to his pew, settling quietly as things wound up.

 

It didn’t take long, and people began to file out of the church. Douglas indulged in a little people-watching as others moved. As he glanced around there were a few people looking his way, and with not unkind expressions. One of them was Peregrine Osborne, although in his case he seemed to be laughing. Douglas indicated with raised brows and a slight jerk of his head that he’d be waiting outside.

 

Once the initial crowds had cleared the MacBains made their exit. It was less claustrophobic standing outside in the weak winter sun. Looking over his three younger siblings, it occurred to Douglas that the younger two particularly were probably fairly bored, cooped up in the house in the short days and cold weather. But there were things to do in London. And hadn't the Archbishop talked about doing things for others?

 

"Whit wuid ye aw say tae a picnic in St James Park taemorrer efternuin?"** He suggested, thinking that he could get the girls out of Cat's hair and take them all on a little outing. It might be good for all of them.

 

Speaking of things to do. “Thairs alsae a dinner on at the Red Lion taemorrer e’en.” He observed. “I’m plannin’ on giein’. Wuid ye like tae be my date Fee?”*** He asked the oldest of his sisters. He doubted Shona would want to go and Aileen was too young.

 

Subtitles

* "That's a good thing."

** "What would you all say to a picnic in St James Park tomorrow afternoon?"

*** “There’s also a dinner on at the Red Lion tomorrow evening. I’m planning on going. Would you like to be my date Fee?

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia leaving John and approaching Ursula

 

Either Lady Cavendish had not realized that Sophia had issued a subtle invitation or she didn't think she was proper enough to associate with. At least she hadn't snubbed her and had been polite. Maybe they would speak about her with John and he could tell her whether or not she had made a good impression on them. Perhaps she would send Lady Cavendish a letter, but she needed John's advice on that too.

 

“You might regret that offer,” she told her friend with a teasing smile. “I may take you up on it quite often." Sophia wished she could stay and converse with him further, but she needed to speak to Lady Mountjoy. She spotted her heading outside. “I hope we shall see each other soon. Enjoy the rest of your day.”

 

Wrapping her cloak around her again, she left the chapel and approached the Queen's Mistress of the Stole. “Lady Mountjoy.” She continued in German. “The candle ceremony was lovely. When may my lord husband and I meet with you so that he can make a donation as well?” That was the first topic she wanted to talk to her about. The second subject, which she had hinted at before the service, was more delicate.

[James Winchester]

The Wentwoods and the Basildons

 

The sermon was on the subject of Charity, a subject obviously close to James’s heart, and close to the Queen’s as well. No doubt she had influenced the choice of topic. When it came time to light the candles the doctor sent his wife up to take her place amongst the Dukes and Earls with a smile and an encouraging word. Noni was his angel, that she be seen as an angel of charity meant much to him. Besides, he would be surprised if doubted his loyalty to the Queen.

 

Basildon was amongst the Earls who donated, something that confirmed in James’s eyes the man’s good nature and worthiness as a friend of the family. Oh he had heard rumours, but all accounts he was a political creature with a somewhat rakish past, but then wasn’t life a journey of self-improvement? Certainly the rumours were all old; if anything marriage seemed to have changed Louis, something James could relate to.

 

“Well, that was refreshing.” James commented as mass ended and people began to move around. “You did us all proud darling.” He added for his wife’s benefit. Standing up there in her pastels and lace, her blonde curls a halo about her head and a candle in her hand, James could imagine angel wings above her shoulders, such as she had worn for her grand birthday party. The thought, whilst one of admiration, also cause a pang of worry, that God might grow jealous of his lost angel and call her back before her time. He didn’t think he could bear that.

 

Better not to think about it. He turned to Basildon and Nicolette. “Have you any plans for-“ but he was cut off mid-sentence by a loud bout of coughing that seemed more than just the tickle-in-the-throat variety. There was movement from the Cavendish clan and murmurs of concern about the figure. “Oh dear. I might just go and see whether I can be of assistance.” He said, doctor’s instincts kicking in. “Noni, why don’t you head out with Lord Basildon and Madamoiselle Vauquelin and I’ll meet you outside?” Grey eyes sought dark as James silently checked that the Earl was alright with the idea. Hopefully the ladies would have some time to talk.

 

James approaches the Cavendishes

 

A moment later James was gone, pushing against the flow of bodies to reach the group around the coughing man.

 

“Forgive the intrusion but can I be of assisitance?” He asked the group diffidently. Many he knew by reputation but none personally. “I’m Doctor Winchester, Baron Wentwood. A Royal Physician.” Sometimes titles came in handy.

[Aria]

“Eeeuw,” Aileen made a face. The thought of kissing boys turned her stomach. They were so annoying. “You're weird, Dougie.”

 

There was no time for talking after that. Like their elder brother and sister, the MacBain girls could sing well, and they enjoyed that part of the service. During the sermon, Shona was the only one who paid attention to the Archbishop’s words. Aileen fidgeted and swung her legs back and forth under the pew. Fiona kept drifting off, but she had told Shona to kick her if she started to fall asleep, and her sister was only too happy to comply.

 

They all watched proudly when Douglas went to the altar to light his candle. Take that, you pompous bastards, Fiona thought. Maybe now that he had selflessly contributed to the Queen's charities, he wouldn't be looked down upon anymore. He had started out with nothing and had built an honorable life for himself. He deserved to be lauded, not scorned.

 

When the service ended, they followed Douglas out of the church, three pretty young girls all in a row. His suggestion of a picnic was met with broad smiles, even from Shona. They were full of energy and didn't like being cooped up inside most of the time.

 

“A picnic will be fun!” Aileen exclaimed, practically jumping up and down. Shona nodded her assent. “I wouldn't miss it for the world,” Fiona agreed.

 

She looked disinterested when he asked her if she would be his dinner date tomorrow evening. Of course she wanted to go, but she didn't want to appear too eager. Yet she didn't want him to take another lady, either. “Sure, I'll go. I'll have to look through my wardrobe and find something appropriate to wear to an inn.”

[Robert Saint-Leger]

Bevsey & his wifey

 

Beverley never would be comfortable with attending a Protestant service, but he did not have much choice but to attend at least once in quarter to avoid suspicions. Christmas was one of those times where attendance was expected, and so he had been there with his wife, not paying much attention to anything that was said.

 

Instead, he was slightly consumed with thinking about the state of his soul considering he had not been able to participate in a Catholic Mass, confession, or anything the like since the fight with his father. If he died, he was surely going to Hell. A fact made much more certain by just where he had been sitting. He felt far more comfortable sitting there if his father or Rupert was there with him; Mary was no buffer in that way.

 

"Is there anyone you wish to speak to? You should be friendly with some of the Queen's ladies," he encouraged, quietly. "His Highness thinks you could gain the Queen's notice with some strategic moves. I could do my part to make nice with Lord Feversham..."

 

He looked around for the Protestant, French-born, naturalized Englishman in the crowd as he spoke. If there was any sort of person Beverley could be equipped to talk to, it was a military-minded peer, and it was just a perk that he was the Queen's Lord Chamberlain too.

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina Approaching CW

 

Freed from her duties Davina spent a few minutes in idle chatater with some fellow Maids and as a group they decided to all exit together which proved lucky as the ile the all traversed just happened to pass the pew where Charles sat - except twas not his Brother that sat close to his side but Catherine Sedly.

 

Her eyes narrowed a fraction and a quiet whisper in the ear of her companion as they passed had them both stopping. The other Maid stood silent allowing Davina to speak her curiosity high and eyes taking the scene in ....

 

"Lord Langdon! A Happy Christmas!"

 

The inflection in her voice the perfect pitch for one seeing an acquaintance as one gloved hand rested on the side of the wooden pew closest to him.

 

"I had looked for you earlier but saw you in conversation with your brother so did not wish to interrupt."

 

Her blue eyes rested on the woman that sat beside him taking in her attire and look in seconds then allowed her a small smile. She knew her but was not sure if it was reciprocated so decided to act as if it was.

 

"A Happy Christmas to you. You will forgive me but I need to pass on the message from earlier to Lord Langdon." She did not wait for a response but continued

 

"I have the answer to those questions that you asked for - it might take some re-arranging but I think it can be easily done if you are still willing?"

 

Her eyes locked with his and she knew he would read between the lines and be able to understand that she was telling him she was available to come to him - if he wanted her to.

[Blackguard]

Cavendish Corner

 

Devonshire seemed embarrassed by the attention and pressed a handkerchief against his mouth tightly to discourage further coughing. Lord Cavendish asked "are you feeling ill father?" The elder Earl could not respond without unleashing a coughing fit, so he shook his head in the negative. He attempted a weak smile to those around him as the coughing ended.

 

James arrived and announced he was a physician. "Doctor, I am William Cavendish, Lord Cavendish and this is my father, the Earl of Devonshire, and my kinsman Lord Maldon. My father sufferes from periodic spells of fever and coughing. It may just be a normal thing as one gets older," he suggested, hoping to make it seem more normal. He knew his father would not want any special attention. Devonshire remained silent, fearing to say anything that might retrigger his cough.

 

Douglas

 

Peregrine nodded his understanding. he would try and herd his sister outside after she had her chance to smile at all of the most eligible bachelors in the church.

 

Sophia

 

"Why don't you ask your husband to call upon me on the morrow?" Ursula suggested. "I will be with the Queen at 3 o'clock in the afternoon if that meets your schedule."

 

Beverley

 

"Could you introduce me to any of the Queen's ladies?" Mary asked as she looked about the chapel She knew of them but had not enjoyed formal introductions. "Do you know any well enough?" She preferred meeting ladies to military men, but she would abide her husband's advice.

 

"What sort of strategic moves did His Highness mean?" If Beverley looked about, he would see Lord Arlington moving his way.

[Charles Whitehurst]

Davina approaching Charles and Company

 

Was that Davina coming his way? Blazing Cannons! This was going to be awkward. What was he to do? he pretended not to notice her in the final seconds, looking back towards Frances for a moment, pretending to make sure she was up to no mischief.

 

"Oh, and a Happy Christmas to you Mistress Wellsley," Charles replied with as much formality as he could muster under the circumstances. "Do you know Mistress Sedley?" he asked politely, "and this is my brother Bradley and my ward Frances. Frances, Mistress Wellsley is a Lady in Waiting to the Queen."

 

It seemed most unfair that Davina delivered the message in front of Catherine. It put him at a disadvantage, more ways than one. Was she trying something? It was hard to know the female mind. He needed to think quickly. The only way to make this seem innocent, in his own mind, was to pretend that this was about the Queen and security matters.

 

"Grand. I was afraid Her Majesty would wish to avoid a Life Guard squad to accompany her. I trust you persuaded her that this was for her safety?" he inquired, feeling himself clever in that moment. "I know Her Majesty was thinking of the outing later in the week; but, I could be available sooner if she wished. Even tomorrow." He had told Davina to wait three days. That would mean Tuesday. It was intended to lower the risk of their discovery; but, he longed to see her sooner if she was so inclined. "You need only inform me of Her wishes. Thank you for stopping by."

 

The last words were an encouragement for her to move along. The last thing he wanted was for Catherine to suspect something. Women seemed suspicious of other women, moreso than men did, or so Charles imagined.

[Blackguard]

Merry Gang

 

"It was a bloody ambush," Roos agreed with Audley. "And thinly veiled at that." The others seemed to agree.

 

"A smoke would be nearly as divine as this chapel," Sedley proclaimed. "Shall we step outside?" Rochester shook his head. "It is bloody cold out there. Let's find somewhere warmer."

 

Merriweather watched the exit of Douglas and the three McBain girls, eyeing each carefully as they passed. "What a lovely family," he muttered to no one in particular.

 

"I need to take my leave gents," Dorset declared. "Stay out of mischief will you?" He would be seen moving towards the Cavendish corner of the chapel.

[Guest]

The Cavendish Corner

 

Devonshire nodded negatively to whether he was ill, yet he obviously was. Perhaps it was the incurable illness of being sixty. A doctor approached and Billy introduced them all. “It’s just a minor cough. I’m sure he j-j-just needs some rest. Maybe some stew.” John agreed. Being approached by his son and his former ward was one thing. A doctor brought more attention, and not of the good kind.

 

“If you have any c-c-cough medicine though, you might send it to seventeen Piccadilly.” John offered. Such matters required discretion, but that he might send a note as well was left unsaid. "Would you like to leave?" John asked Devonshire a yes or no question so he would not have to speak.

 

John noted Dorset approaching but he had no idea of the significance yet. It would not be until tonight he knew of Newcastle’s designs.

[Aria]

Charles, Davina, and Catherine

 

With Charles' brother and young ward sitting with them, Catherine was unable to tease her lover. Had they been alone, she might have laid a hand upon his thigh or shifted her position so that her bosom 'unintentionally' brushed against his arm. Instead, she had to content herself with recollections of their last night together and anticipating their next assignation while the Archbishop droned on and on about charity. She hoped that Charles would want to see her again tonight. It had been two days since they had swived and she was eager to be with him again.

 

She was a bit surprised when he did not go forward to light a candle. Didn't he want to be seen donating to charity with the most prominent families at court? When the service was over, she noticed one of the Queen's ladies heading in their direction. Had he perhaps been one of the anonymous donors and had the dark-haired lady come to collect his contribution?

 

Catherine had never paid much attention to the Queen's ladies-in-waiting, or even to the Queen herself. As a known libertine and a former (and hopefully future) mistress of Her Majesty's brother-in-law, she doubted the German royal would want anything to do with her. She no patience for holier-than thou types anyway.

 

Charles apparently knew the woman and Catherine smiled politely as he introduced her as Mistress Wellsley. Something about the way Davina looked at her didn't sit well with her, and neither did her cryptic message. Catherine wished her a happy Christmas and then fell silent, listening carefully to Charles' explanation.

 

If the Queen did wanted Life Guard squad to accompany her on an outing, it made sense that she would send one of her ladies to inform him of her intentions. Catherine sensed no deception in their words.

 

Maybe she was just being paranoid.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia and Ursula

 

“I shall ask him but I am fairly certain that he will make time for such an important cause. Will we find you in the Queen's presence chamber or will you be in another part of the palace?” Even if Esteban was not able to make it, he could write a note confirming his consent to donate and Sophia could give it to her tomorrow.

 

Whether or not her husband intended to make a contribution, she wanted to speak further with Ursula. If she made a good impression on the other German, she might speak well of her to the Queen. That would put her one step closer to friendship.

 

Sophia lowered her voice. “Do you think you could arrange an audience with Her Majesty so that I can tell her about the case of neglect I believe I have discovered? Perhaps some time later in the week, when I have investigated the situation a bit further.” She needed to get with Lord Dundarg on that. Together, they might be able to find proof of abuse to present to the Queen.

[Blackguard]

Sophia and Ursula

 

"Ja, the Presence Chamber," Ursula acknowledged. An ambassador and his wife would be received there.

 

As to the other matter, Ursula furrowed her brow. "Her Majesty does not like surprises. It is best if you tell me what you know now." She was the gatekeeper to the Queen and liked to know what issues might be presented to her mistress in advance.

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina approaching Charles and Company

 

He was flustered but hid it well she thinks and so at his introductions she made her own acknowledgements

 

"Mistress Sedley, Sir, Mistress Frances, a Happy Christmas to you all."

 

She included the trio in a smile and a small general curtsey also pleased that Charles had included her Employment. How clever of him! It took any suspecions away from her own words and made it all believable.

 

Her gaze went back to Catherine but she could see nothing that might indicate there was a relationship there - the idea that her lover had other women he slept with rankled but in all truth she had no say. Well she could in the privcy of the sheets voice her concerns but that would only make him think she was jealous.

 

"Her Grace said something about Tuesday but I think she might prefer it sooner - I shall leave the arrangement of it to you naturally My Lord and you know how to send word."

 

She took his hint

 

"I do apologize for the intrusion. A pleasure."

 

Her smile and little nod of her dark head as she moved away with her own companion who began to whisper almost before they were out of ear shot but Davina shushed her resisting the urge to look back.

 

It was up to him now but her own body craved his touch and she doubted he would not want her in return!

 

Once free of the Church she continued on her way caught up in the social commeraderie of her fellow Maids.

[Francis Kirke]

Francis doing his thing

 

Francis did not particularly notice the lack of his brother-like uncle, but neither of them was a Sunday fixture at any rate. Francis had missed a Sunday more than once.

 

He smiled back at the duchess quickly, not wanting to gain any of Arlington's attention. The man was the most absolutely long-winded and very by the book, an irony considering the King was anything but by the book. Arlington was a relic but among many of the still powerful older royalists and the King, he was still force enough for Francis, who needed to cultivate goodwill for his own future. That did not mean he wished to deal with Arlington tedium that day. Being the newest of the King's gentlemen and looking much younger than he was garnered him more than enough attention.

 

Thus, after the service he did everything to look everywhere but near Arlington and Richmond.

 

He saw Basildon nearby and Dorset heading away from the Merry Gang and moving toward the front, not realizing he was heading toward the Cavendish corner. He was not an astute enough courtier to have realized that Lady Frances was being considered for his cousin.