To visit the Queen | afternoon, December 26th- Xmas 1677

[James Winchester]

The business with the candles at Church was sheer inspiration in James's mind. What the average courtier valued most highly was Royal regard, for it opened many doors. The chance to show up one's peers was also not to be sniffed at, especially whilst also demonstrating one's own charitable qualities. For all her youth, Karoline was a talented manipulator. It occured to James, as it had when he'd first been swayed to her cause, that she was a good match for the King.

 

Better than Noni would have been. The thought of his sweet, innocent and trusting wife at the centre of court's manipulations made him shudder. No, things really had worked out for the best.

 

James had gone to lunch at the Lion, giving the Queen and her ladies time to compose themselves after Church, before James himself had made his way towards the Queen's chambers. In truth he was seeking one of her ladies, rather than the Queen herself, as no doubt the promised donations would require a follow-up, and he was her Minister for Charity.

 

He was however carrying with him a leather satchel of papers, just in case the Queen herself was kind enough to give him a few minutes. It held plans for two charitable projects that they had discussed.

[Blackguard]

The Queen was dictating letters to her secretary when James called. James was asked to wait for several minutes as two important letters were finished.

 

Moving to a sitting room with a roaring fire, the doctor was shown into the private study. Ursula Blount was present, but no one else.

 

"Doctor Winchester, do come in," Ursula greeted, allowing James to bow. He would not be invited to sit just yet, because it was expected that there might be a bit of business conducted first. She knew him better as a doctor than Lord Wentwood, and took liberties accordingly.

 

"How were your travels?" the Queen inquired quietly. "Did you learn anything particularly interesting?"

[James Winchester]

One didn't rush Royalty. James thanked the servant that showed him in and took the opportunity to enjoy the warmth of the fire, standing with his back to it and his eyes half-closed, appreciative as only someone who never enjoyed the cold could be.

 

At length he was shown into the Queen's study, where the inestimable Magravina awaited him. "Ah, Lady Mountjoy, how delightful to see you again." The doctor bowed, knowing Ursula as a bastion of propriety in her own right as well as the strong support to his friend and fellow Oxford alumnus, Charles Blount. "You are looking well."

 

He flashed a quick smile as she enquired after his journeying. "Indeed, Wales is a most interesting place, the countryside soothing and full of potential." He declared enthusiastically. "As for Italy and Savoy, fascinating places though I can't say I'm overly keen to board a boat again." Presumably Ursula would know about his modest success there since her husband had been his legal counsel.

 

"Have you heard from Lord Mountjoy recently?" He enquired, purely as a friend. "I can only hope his travels are not proving too strenuous." He said, quiet commiseration. But it was a wife's lot to be left behind whilst her husband travelled.

[Blackguard]

The Queen had entered while the two were speaking. Ursula gave a quick curtsy.

 

"He is on a tour of the Empire, spending some time with brother and then visiting other holds. I could not leave the Queen's side or I would have been with him," Ursula explained. "I've not heard from him in a couple of weeks," she admitted, but did not seem troubled.

 

The Queen heard James speak of Wales and other travels. It did not seem that he had encountered anything particularly noteworthy; but, there was much to be said for quiet and peace. Karoline found herself wrapped in that sort of comfortable cloak many times. "I am told that Wales is home to many beautiful geographies," Karoline noted aloud. She had been told some unflattering things about its people, but she kept that to herself.

 

She had seated herself next to the fire in a careful motion. Wentwood might imagine that she was nursing an injury or trying to be very careful. He would have heard the rumors about her pregnancy by now; but, the subject had yet to be broached by either the Queen or Ursula.

 

"Do you have a report for us today?" Karoline queried in a business like voice. "Lady Mountjoy had a grand idea to raise money for charity at church today."

[James Winchester]

The Queen entered quietly whilst they spoke and James bowed deeply in her direction. "Your Majesty." He noticed the care with which she moved; was she injured or was she taking care with herself; might the rumours be true? London was certainly abuzz with them. No doubt, if she wanted him to know, the Queen or one of her ladies would tell him. James was known as a doctor specialising in women's health, but one of the most important characteristics of a good physician was discretion.

 

Meanwhile Charles Blount was apparently still touring the continent. It was good to hear of his friend. "The Channel seas can be a little unpredictable. Hopefully there shall be a letter soon, and his good self soon after." James replied, meaning every word. There was something solid and reassuring about Lord Mountjoy, a trait he shared with his wife. They were both most reliable people.

 

The Queen spoke, and when she did all others listened. James smiled warmly through his beard at the direction of her comment. "Indeed it is Your Majesty. The South of Wales particularly is home to picturesque river valleys and majestic woodlands. The climate is quite mild and the air very clear." He described rather proudly. He was of course speaking of the region around his estate. Both he and Noni had found it suited them perfectly. "Perhaps some day Your Majesty might like to see it." He suggested.

 

As the Queen settled herself it was down to business. James remained standing respectfully, and the dapper little doctor's manner was entirely businesslike. "Indeed, so I did hear." James replied on the subject of the Candles of Charity. "A stroke of brilliance. Clearly Lady Mountjoy is a keen student of Human Nature." He added with a momentary smile of amusement. As, he was quite certain, was the Queen. "That was one of the reasons for my visit. Ladies of good breeding should not have to concern themselves with the collection of the promised funds." He'd assumed that would be his job as Minister for Charity.

 

"I have also with me the initial plans for both the Queen Karoline London Orphanage and the Queen Karoline London Royal Infirmary, if such would interest Your Majesty at this time?" He said diffidently, indicating the leather satchel. He was aware that the Queen might have other things she'd prefer to spend her time on right now. She could always nominate another date; he was at her disposal.

[Blackguard]

"I should like to see it one day," Karoline agreed. After she gave birth to the royal heir, she intended to insist upon a royal progression through the countryside so that she might see more of her adoptive land.

 

His announcement of having plans for her charitable enterprises caught her attention even more. She was in need of a good diversion. "Ja, show them to me." There was genuine interest in her voice. She stood and the two ladies moved to a nearby table, expecting James to unroll some document for them to examine.

[James Winchester]

“Well, if I can in any way assist your future ventures into Wales, Your Majesty has but to say.” The doctor assured her. James wasn’t born Welsh, but he was finding the beautiful countryside entirely to his liking, even if the local people tended to be somewhat taciturn. It was the same anywhere, and he was determined to win them over.

 

The good doctor’s smile broadened as the Queen expressed an interest in seeing what he’d brought. He obligingly rummaged through the thick wodge of papers in the satchel, unfolding what he was looking for and opening it out onto the table. The large sheet showed an artistic rendering of the frontage of a terribly modern stone building, complete with cupola and pillars for the entrance, and statue of it’s beloved patron out the front, portrayed in the guise of the virtue Charity.

 

Several other pages were arranged around it, showing internal and external sketches of various parts of the building. There was a distinct resemblance between the sketches and the structure of the Chelsea Veterans’ Hospital, but here on a much grander scale. The already established building was clearly the younger, less important brother to the proposed structure. “The Queen Karoline London Royal Infirmary.” James declared.

 

His smile turned somewhat wry. “These are, of course, only preliminary sketches, provided to me by Sir Christopher Wren.” He explained. “If they please Your Majesty then he will undertake the full, architectural designs for the building.” James clarified as he moved some of the pages slightly, placing them roughly where they would fit onto the main drawing, so that one got a sense of the building as a whole.

 

“Here is the wing dedicated to the treatment of the general public.” He pointed. “Priority would of course be given to working men, such that they are able to return to work and support their families.” And thus keep them off all the streets. “And this wing is devoted to the treatment and rehabilitation of soldiers wounded in the King’s service.” In contrast to the Veteran’s Hospital, which was where old soldiers retired to.

 

“It would include its own kitchens and linen service naturally, and employment in both those and nursing roles could be given preferentially to women who have lost their husbands.” Which would allow them to support their children.

 

Pausing, James waited whilst Karoline perused the offering, wondering what she would make of it.

[Blackguard]

The young queen took her time perusing the pages and sketches. "These are quite good. Wren you say?" Even she had heard of the great architect.

 

Being German helped one be practical, so a natural question came to mind. "My lord, we are building a charity hospital rather than a palace are we not? If the building were more modest, it could save money and do more good I should think." It looked like a design for a royal country home. Such a thing would be wasted on the common folk she imagined. Better to make best use of space for beds. Ursula was looking over her shoulder and nodding in approval. "Have you a figure for how much this might cost?"

[James Winchester]

“Indeed.” James confirmed. “I thought, having experienced his work at the Chelsea Veteran’s Hospital, that he would be the architect to consult.” He said simply.

 

Karoline’s next question, voiced after some thoughtful consideration, surprised James, though he did his best not to show it. Most people wanted something to show for their generosity – and the showier the better. Could the Queen’s charitable intentions actually derive from genuine concern, rather than a desire to win people over? In that moment she rose significantly in James’s opinion.

 

“Your Majesty is quite correct, of course.” He said. “I don’t doubt that Sir Christopher sought to honour you with the best his genius could devise, but a more modest structure would indeed save funds which could be used more directly.” James met Ursula’s gaze over Karoline’s head for a moment. Their Queen was an intelligent young woman indeed; truly England was blessed that she was the one chosen.

 

On the question of cost James tapped his fingers together. “I raised one thousand pounds for the founding of the Free Clinic.” He said, pursing his moustache thoughtfully, unaware that he had, in fact, been seventy years ahead of his time. “It employs one physician, one surgeon and one apothecary – along with a couple of nursing staff – in a rented building, and those funds still keep it amply supplied.” Karoline would of course remember the Clinic’s establishment.

 

“I anticipate it would not be difficult to scale up that basic concept to achieve increased facilities and staffing, if one were willing to rent a premesis. Of course, there are significant advantages in having a custom-built infirmary building, but something rather more modest in an inexpensive area should be very achievable for a reasonable amount.” He looked at Karoline, waiting to see what she thought. “I can certainly make enquiries.” He offered.

[Blackguard]

Karoline was not blind to Winchester's reaction, but she pretended not to notice. Ursula returned the glance in an affirmative acknowledgement.

 

"A thousand pounds should last the ... clinic a good amount of time, yes?" She was not sure how long money lasted, having grown up with men to handle such things for her. "We hope to have raised more today, perhaps 6000." A brief satisfied smile appeared on her lips.

 

As for an additional building and its location, Karoline replied "if the building is to serve the poor, then should it not be where they live rather than where we live?" It seemed far more practical that way. The patients cold walk to the place rather than requiring transportation. It would also keep the poor from wealthier areas, which was sure to please the gentry.

[James Winchester]

"One thousand pounds would establish and maintain a clinic of the same size as my own Free Clinic." James confirmed. "Though I will admit that I imagined something larger to warrant Your Majesty's name on it." He confessed. "But if we focus on practicality as you say, then it should not be difficult to do without great cost." If they didn't need to pander to a Royal ego then things suddenly became much simpler. Truly, in that moment, James felt proud to serve.

 

"My own clinic is in Friday Street, in the East End. The most needy area of London. The Whitechapel district,"* not, of course to be confused with Whitehall, "is some way further along the Thames and, judging by the unfortunates who make the journey to the clinic, of considerable need in that respect." He suggested, thinking that if the new Infirmary were a little removed from his own establishment they could cover a wider area.

 

"We could replicate the Clinic project, but I estimate that for two thousand pounds we could rent a larger premesis, employ more nursing staff, afford more medications and do it all for a longer period." He judged. "There wouldn't need to be more than one Physician. As for Surgeons, we would have to judge that from the demand."

 

*This is where the London Royal Infirmary's second site was located. The first was a clinic like James's. I've compiled an abridged history of the Royal Infirmary.

[Blackguard]

"Perhaps a nice entryway with a royal seal atop it," the Queen conceded when James reminded Karoline that her name would be on the building. As for the amount of expenses and the new location, the Queen seemed satisfied. "I shall grant you the funds you need." She looked to Ursula, who nodded her understanding.

 

"You shall find a suitable place in Whitechapel then?" she inquired. "What do you need from us?" She was not sure what Winchester could do on his own and what royal assistance he needed. "A royal charter perhaps?" Lady Mountjoy asked. She had conferred with the Queen's Chancellor prior to their meeting.

 

"How long will this take?" Karoline asked eagerly. She knew building projects could take considerable time.

[James Winchester]

James nodded in acknowledgement as Karoline conceded that a restrained amount of ornamentation would be appropriate for such a building. Stylish but not overdone, if he judged correctly.

 

“A Royal Charter would be appropriate for the founding of what, I hope, will be an eternal institution.” James said, thinking not only of the Queen’s name being preserved in perpetuity, but also of the good that could come of such things becoming a social norm. He could imagine the entire city, bespeckled with free Clinics and Infirmaries, and the resulting improvement in the health and productivity of her people.

 

How long it would take wasn’t an easy question to answer; it depended on a lot of different factors. “I will begin my search for a premises immediately, and liasing with the Royal College, the Barber-Surgeons and the Apothecaries for suitable staff. There will likely be a few necessary alterations for the building, but I anticipate that we could be ready for the unveiling by the time that court returns next season.” He guessed.

 

“It was my thought that the nursing staff could be employed preferentially from amongst widows or young women whose families are in a poor financial situation.” He suggested, glancing at the two ladies, knowing that they would never face such a situation, but could perhaps empathise with those who would.

[Blackguard]

"Our Chancellor will see to the royal charter," Karoline pledged. She assumed her husband would not thwart such charity.

 

As for the timing of the building being ready, James indicated that it could be ready by the spring, when the new season started. "So quickly?" Perhaps it was just the ornamentation that presented the challenge. She supposed any house could have beds and cots added easily enough. "That will be gratifying."

 

The fact that the poor would be helped with jobs as well was a separate charity in of itself. Not only would the sick be cared for but the future employees would be supported as well. "God be praised. Let us plan a tour for His Majesty on his birthday next year." That would mean that all would need to be completed by mid-May 1678.

 

"Any other issues to consider?" the Queen inquired.

[James Winchester]

“Thank you Your Majesty.” A royal charter would ensure that the Infirmary was not some flash in the pan project. And whilst it might have relatively humble beginnings, he was certain that once it’s success was proven, those wishing to curry favour with the Queen would be keen to support it further. He had high hopes for it’s future.

 

Perhaps it did seem a little quick, but James felt he could do it if he set everything in motion this season. “By renting an established building we can bypass the time required to build a dedicated facility.” James assured the Queen, and himself. “Such is of course always an option in the future, and potentially a cause for future fundraising.” He pointed out. But once the initial facility was operating the concept was proven; it was the next logical step on from his own Clinic.

 

His Majesty’s birthday? That was May. Could James get everything ready by then? He decided that he would have to. After all, he’d shown he could move quickly when required; just look at his marriage to Noni. This would be no different, and he would have royal authority behind him. “His Majesty’s birthday then, I shall have the official opening planned for that date.” James confirmed.

 

Was there anything else? “Not that comes to mind, Your Majesty.” James replied after a thoughtful pause. “If I come across any other relevant considerations I will of course bring them to your attention.” Assuming they they were worth the Queen’s notice, of course.

 

"Is there anything else I can do for you at this point?"

[Blackguard]

A grateful smile met his pledge. There was a pause as she imagined in her mind how the clinic might appear and operate.

 

As to other matters, James had none to mention but Karoline did. "Likely you have heard the glad tidings that I am with child. It is expected to arrive this summer, I am told. His Majesty has asked that his personal physician attend me, as well as the midwife licensed to Whitehall. I was wondering if you might attend me as well ... that is if you believe yourself well-versed in the delivery of children. I should like to have my own physician available to provide advice, true to me first." There was a pause again as both she and Ursula awaited the decision of James.

[James Winchester]

As Karoline spoke James’ blonde brows rose before the doctor broke out in a broad smile, teeth white amidst his moustache. “I had heard the rumours Your Majesty, but I considered it none of my business until told otherwise.” And now he had been. “Congratulations. The entire Kingdom will be thrilled.” So much hope rested on the Queen giving the King an heir, and the crown not passing to York.

 

As the Queen continued James listened, and knew immediately for what reason she wanted her own physician involved. The entire Kingdom – and the King’s Physician – would be focused on the birthing of an heir to the throne; Karoline wanted someone there who would be concerned for her wellbeing. Heaven forfend she have difficulty birthing, and place them all in that difficult situation of choosing between the life of the mother, and the life of the child. He knew which one all others would choose, and no doubt she did too.

 

Knowing grey eyes met the Queen’s. “I would be honoured Your Majesty.” He replied gravely.

 

Perhaps she was afraid, behind that practiced calm? “I don’t advertise the fact but I actually have a significant clientele who call upon me for various feminine health concerns.” His moustache twisted in a wry, self-deprecating smile. Word seemed to get about, but James himself erred on the side of discretion. “I have also assisted in several births.” He decided not to mention that one of the more recent had been the King’s last bastard. “Summer gives us five to six months. I shall use the intervening time to consult experts on the matter.” If he could improve his own skills he could serve his mistress better.

 

”May I ask how you are feeling in yourself, Your Majesty?” He enquired, slipping easily into Doctor mode.

[Blackguard]

"Thank you," she replied quietly. Beneath that calm exterior was a frightened and uncertain young woman. The mask she wore was well practiced and only Ursula had the full knowledge of her true feelings.

 

James seemed to understand her need. There was nothing more to say in that regard. "Good fortune then," she noted when he acknowledged his level of experience. "It seems like a long journey yet." There were all sorts of dangers along that road.

 

"I am feeling fine," she insisted. "I find I have little appetite at times." Nausea had a way of curbing one's hunger.

[James Winchester]

James's smile become more understanding, even a little fatherly. "A long journey, but not one which you had to travel alone.” He assured her. For better or for worse James had cast his lot firmly with the Queen and would serve her in whatever capacity he could, for her good and the good of the Kingdom. The question he hoped to never have to answer was, would it be in that order?

 

The doctor had of course also lived through his wife’s pregnancy, Noni having surprised them both by conceiving only a few months after the wedding. James was a dutiful husband but not exactly ardent in his physical affections. Still, he recalled her complaints of nausea and later, swollen ankles, both well known phenomenon.

 

“I can have a tea made up that will help ease the nausea, and also one for sleep, if that would help.” He offered. Noni’d had dreadful trouble getting comfortable when the baby grew large. James didn’t want to overwhelm the young Queen – no doubt she was getting advice from others – but he pondered on a few tidbits that might make her more comfortable.

 

“When you can stomach it, try to ensure that your meals contain both meat and fruit. Flesh for the growing flesh within you, and fruit for your own health. Pears are best but at this time of year apples and dried figs may suffice.” Pears were out of season. Figs were exotic but of great benefit, and he didn’t doubt they would be available to the Queen. “Gentle perambulation can also be of benefit. To us all, in truth.” He added with mild humour. Indeed, what he prescribed was considered best practice for all. “And its best if you water your wine.” Again, not just for pregnant women.

[Blackguard]

"I should like to try this tea you prescribe," the Queen replied quietly. It sounded encouraging. The King's physician had recommended a tea as well, but she was not sure it was working. She could only hope Wentwood's mixture might be stronger.

 

"Dried figs," she nodded, knowing that fresh fruit was out of season. "Do any dried fruits work?" There was a long pause before she asked the more critical question. "Is there any tea or food that would serve to help to ... not lose the baby?" The previous queen had become barren, but not before having several miscarriages. It was the thing that noble ladies feared the worst.

[James Winchester]

“I shall have some sent forthwith.” James promised on the subject of tea, making a mental note to have it prepared this afternoon.

 

Did any fruit help? “All fruit is beneficial.” James allowed. “But some more so than others. Obviously if you can’t stomach figs and apples, then eat what you can.” Better that than avoiding it. “Plums in syrup might appeal perhaps?” It would depend on whether or not Karoline had a sweet tooth. Noni certainly did.

 

There was a thoughtful pause before the Queen asked the question that James suspected had been on her mind all along, and another one as the doctor weighed his answer. “Meat and fruits will help, they provide a balancing influence on the humours.” He said carefully. “There are other medications that can aid in the retention of the foetus, but we need to be careful, Your Majesty, not to overdo things.”

 

The doctor stroked his goatee thoughtfully. How could he best explain the risk? “If we were to treat a man for an excessively sanguine disposition that he did not, in fact, possess, we could well unbalance his humours in the other direction, such that he becomes excessively melancholy; do you see?” He asked. “If there is no problem with your pregnancy, we do not wish to cause one.” Which was entirely possible. James knew several ways, which some women employed deliberately. He had, after all, come to Nell Gwynn’s attention for treating several of her actress friends for certain delicate concerns. Something he now kept quiet.

 

“I am of course aware of the troubles of poor Queen Catherine, God rest her soul, though that was before I came to court.” The poor woman was already dead when James arrived. He gave Karoline a reassuring smile. “But she is the exception to the rule. Women are designed by God and nature to be caring and nurturing, to bring forth new life in that singularly blessed role, and most women have no difficulty in doing so.” He said gently.

 

How could he reassure their young Queen? “The best predictor of ability to carry is family history.” He said at length. “Have any of the women in your family experienced difficulty with carrying a pregnancy?” He asked.

[Blackguard]

"I understand," the young queen replied quietly. It was best to trust in God.

 

"My mother had 14 children and my grandmother on my father's side had seven I believe." That maternal grandmother was the aunt of the current King Charles II. "I suppose that I have nothing to fear," she announced bravely. She preferred not to discuss Queen Catherine.

 

"Thank you my lord for your words of comfort. Is there anything you have need of us?"

[James Winchester]

The little doctor positively beamed when Karoline related the fecund history of her family. “Then I cannot see why you should have any difficulty.” James said warmly, positively radiating reassurance.

 

It became clear that it was time for him to go. “Not at this juncture Your Majesty, Margravina. Thank you for your time and your confidence.” He said simply, immensely proud to be serving this woman who was proving herself mature beyond her years. No doubt with Ursula’s support, but that was what advisors were for.

 

“Of course, should you have need of me, at any time or for any reason, I am yours to command. Send a runner to Chelsea if you need me urgently, and I shall come at once.” He assured the Queen. “I trust you’ll both enjoy the afternoon.”

 

Collecting up his papers and satchel, James bowed deeply to the pair and excused himself from the room, making his way from Whitehall with renewed purpose. He had things to do!

 

OOC: Thank you for a very interesting thread!

[Blackguard]

Smiles were afforded the dapper doctor as he departed. "I like him Ursula," Karoline whispered after his departure. "Let us find other uses for him too."

 

 

 

 

~fin