An Offering Of Goodwill [27/12, 3 pm]- Xmas 1677

[Sophia de la Cerda]

“Yes, she is.” Sophia agreed with Lord Chichester's opinion of the Queen. He went on to say that he had heard nothing about plans for a New Year celebration. Neither had she, but she expected that it would be another ball. Lady Habersham thought that there would be a banquet and then entertainment.

 

If this was true, perhaps she would be part of that entertainment, whether she was asked to perform or whether she offered. She would look into it. Maybe Lord Kingston would know something, as he served the King. Or Mademoiselle Vauquelin. The Lady of Misrule would probably be involved in some way.

 

Edith's recollections of a New Year celebration long past entranced her. “Oh,” Sophia breathed. “I wish I could have seen that play!” Which would have been impossible. Her companions probably knew, or at least suspected, that on News Years Day in 1661, she had not yet been born. She had burst into the world a month and a half later, much like Persephone coming out of the darkness and into the light.

 

But what a wonderful start to my birth year! Maybe because it began with that play, I am destined to sing the role of Persephone in another court opera. That myth was one of her favorites and because of it, her step-uncle, a talented composer, had written an aria about Persephone emerging from the underworld tailored to show off the full capabilities of her voice. She had sung it at the small concert she had given at Windsor, shortly after her arrival in England, and also for the King.

 

Her thoughts wandered while Lady Habershame spoke of something to do with cabbage, tobacco, and Turks. She did seem to like talking about Turks. Idly, the young Baroness wondered if Turks ate cabbage. If so, it was probably not nearly as flavorful as the German variety. She adored sauerkraut.

 

When Edith's voice trailed off, Sophia turned the conversation back to Lord Chichester's suggestion, since it seemed that the elderly lady had forgotten what they had been discussing. “I think a pact is a splendid idea. Between the four of us, we should be able to discover all of the secrets of this year's mysterious festivities.”

[George Hardwick III]

"I wonder where those actors are now?"

 

Lady Habersham's conversation was like that, although unlikly deliberate, she scattered out so much that there was something for everyone. While Sophia wondered upon one lines, George wondered upon another, no doubt Esteban's thoughts were taken somewhere else again. "Now that would be a fine surprise for His Majesty," or was he thinking of indulging Edith? "I wonder if I could track them down for next year perhaps?"

 

There was not time to do so for this.

 

"Agreed." George was satisfied as Sophia agreed to the sharing of what they might learn. "Yet if we discover that naught at all is planned, may I extend an invitation to you all to see it in with me at my House on Pall mall. There shall be no Persephone, nor Bible stories, nor cabbage for that matter." George did not rule out Cigars, since his friendship with Boyle he'd found it to be a male bonding distraction. A cigar with Toledo seemed quite the thing. "but would promise a full punch bowl, good conversation and warm hearth."

 

And so the Earl suggested a back up plan into place.

[Blackguard]

Edith was asked about the actors in the play. "Oh, Hades was played by Charles Hart," she recalled. "Ordinarily, male actors played the roles of females then, but Charles insisted that Thomas Killigrew, who designed the play, allow a female to play Peresphone. It was none other than Nell Gwynn." She paused to see if the younger courtiers knew the connection.

 

In another whisper she informed them that "Miss Gwynn was ... with Mr. Hart then. Before the King you see." That was all she felt comfortable in revealing in that moment. Esteban cleared his throat.

 

"I am certain that a banquet is planned," she continued. "To do less would be quite the failure. The new queen must take charge." Now she remembered what she wished to see the Queen about.

 

"Still, your offer is attractive Lord Chichester," she hastened to add, noting that the lord was an attractive man as well. Why is he not married? No doubt she would have to do something about that. It was a shame he was Catholic. She would need to do something about that as well if she were to approach the Ladies of St. George about the matter.

 

"Yes, let us band together our intelligence," she proclaimed. "I feel like a spy already," she tittered.

 

Esteban cleared his throat again. Talk of spies and sexual plays at New Years, both of which would appeal to his young wife, were dangerous topics.

 

"I hope you did not take offense Lord Toledo," Edith continued. "No doubt your people use spies regularly."

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia had met Master Hart during her first season at court, when she had masqueraded as a commoner by the name of Gretchem Mueller to get a part in a play. He had given her a place in the King's Company as well as a small role in Master Greyson's first production, but she had not been able to attend rehearsals as well as prepare for her concert for the King. Now she was glad things had turned out as they had. She would never have been able to act for long without being recognized. Lord Kingston would have sent her away in disgrace and she would never have met her beloved Juan.

 

All she knew about Mistress Gwynn was that she was a talented actress and one of the royal mistresses. She hoped that their paths would cross some day. They probably had a lot in common. Sophia suppressed a chuckle when Lady Habersham suggested a relationship between the two performers and Esteban cleared his throat. No doubt he thought that it was inappropriate to speak of such things in front of his wife.

 

Taking his cue, her eyes widened in feigned shock. To will color upon her cheeks, she recalled the incident in the theatre when she and Master Cole had come upon two gentlemen shagging each other. That memory never ceased to make her blush.

 

Sophia silently agreed with the old matron that there would be some kind of court event for the New Year, but George's offer that the four of them celebrate together was appealing as well. “Thank you for that generous offer, my lord. I should be able to provide a Persephone,” she offered, looking to her husband for approval.

 

Esteban had been among the King's guests when she had sung that aria, although unless Juan had translated it from its original Italian, he would not have understood it. There had been nothing suggestive in the words or in her portrayal. “I can also bring some cabbage, a very tasty kind that is popular in Germany.”

 

Sophia grinned conspiratorially at Edith when she claimed that she felt like a spy. Again, Esteban cleared his throat, although this time, she could not guess why. Perhaps Lady Habersham had indeed offended him with her mention of espionage.

 

She quickly brought the topic back on track. “Whether we spend the evening at a court event or at Lord Chichester's residence, it will be fun for all of us to step into the new year together.”

[George Hardwick III]

George understood the discretions made, even if married Sophia was very young. Young & proper ears should not be present when talking of courts debauchery and decay. Keeping an innocent wife was quite a project amidst it all, and his friend Toledo was doing his admirably doing his best.

 

"Then not as unavailable as I had thought." George spoke of the actors. Was there time? He kept further thought of that private for now, instead focussing upon his back up invitation.

 

"I do not believe cabbage is wanted." he huffed a laugh at the young brides misunderstandings, yet it was likely an unnecessary arrangement any how. Lady Habersham seemed certain that there would be some sort of event planned for.

 

"Then I have thought of perfect christmas gifts for our intriguing ladies; cloaks and daggers, the first in a powder blue velvet, and the second silver with jeweled hilt." George was set to chuckling alongside Sophia, as Edith claimed she felt like a spy.

 

The matrons next comment though was a bit less artful. He touched his heart upon Esteban's behalf, "My lady, be careful where you pitch that dagger." Loyalty & friendship demanded as much.

 

But for all of that it signaled an apt time for departure.

 

"Ladies..." he bowed. "...until anon. Lord Toledo, I intent complete the afternoon with a game of billiards later, if you care to join me."

 

And with farewells made, the impeccable Earl of Chichester retired.

 

 

 

 

OOC: Thank you for a very enjoyable thread. p.s. the possible billiards game later is not an rp request, just a possibly pleasant aside in background of the game.

[Blackguard]

The brief meeting seemed to be at an end and an understanding. Toledo nodded his appreciation to George and add his own farewell. "A pleasure." He looked to his own wife to continue their exit.

 

Edith was sad to see the charming earl take his leave; but was buoyed by the thought that they would be getting together soon. "Likewise," she replied to the Spanish couple before turning to George with a broad smile. "It was a most gratifying opportunity to make your acquaintance my lord. Sich patrons of the arts are rare." In this regard, his art included perfect manners. "Your gracious offer for the holiday is a welcome one."

 

As George took his leave, Edith sat with new resolution as to her day in the Queen's presence chamber. She would see what she could learn.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

“Oooooh,” Sophia breathed when George suggested that she and Edith be given cloaks and daggers for Christmas. She winked at the older woman. “Then we can spy in style.” In the blink of an eye, she had all but forgotten that Esteban had subtly warned them away from that subject by clearing his throat.

 

He didn't seem bothered by Lady Habersham's comment about his own spies. This time it was Lord Chichester who eloquently urged caution. Sophia was beginning to think that her husband was not annoyed with her after all, for he was being very pleasant and not insisting they leave immediately.

 

She was surprised that the Earl planned to leave without speaking to the Queen. Esteban was ready to depart as well. “I hope both of you enjoy the rest of your day, and it was a delight to meet you, my lady.”

 

Beginning to move toward the door, Sophia looked up at Esteban. “Must we go home right away? I wish to visit the portrait gallery and study the paintings before I leave the palace. I promise I will be home before dark.”

[Blackguard]

Sophia

 

Esteban found it interesting that Sophia wished to visit the portrait gallery. It seemed innocent enough. His wife had an interest in painting, but her skills were mostly rudimentary. He supposed he should not deny her the chance to contrast the masters to her own attempts.

 

"We could go through there together," he offered. "Then you could tell me more about the reasons you chose to go to such a dangerous place as this Bedlam," he remarked evenly. He offered his arm to escort her from the room. Karl was set to follow.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

She wouldn't be able to study the paintings very closely if Esteban accompanied her to the portrait gallery, but she couldn't very well protest. In truth, Sophia had hoped to put off the inevitable conversation about Bedlam as long as possible, but he mentioned the incident right away.

 

So much for that idea.

 

He did not sound angry at her, so perhaps he was only curious as to what had led her there. Telling the Queen about her suspicions showed that the wife of the Spanish Ambassador cared about the English people far beyond making monetary donations. Surely he would appreciate that. Wouldn't he? He was harder to read than a book written in a language she didn't understand.

 

“Your company will be most welcome, dear husband.” Placing one small hand upon his arm, she smiled warmly, nothing in her demeanor showing how nervous she was. “It happened just as I told Her Majesty. I ran into Lady Buccleuch when our carriages were both stuck in traffic. She asked me if I would like to join her while she delivered cakes to Bedlam and since I had been thinking of becoming involved in charity work, I agreed.

 

“I sent our carriage home and told the driver to let you know who I was with, but I don't know if he carried out my instructions. We did not expect to find anything amiss.”

[Blackguard]

Esteban walked with Sophia down the hallway towards the gallery at an even pace. Outwardly he did not look troubled.

 

"The driver told me nothing. Where was Karl and where was your maid?" he inquired in a casual manner, but Sophia would know that he would be sorely vexed if Karl had not been with her.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia did not want Esteban to be further displeased with Karl. She knew that he had already been reprimanded for not accompanying her on Sunday afternoon. And she had gone to Bedlam on Saturday. If he was fired, he would only be replaced with someone more diligent and the young Baroness certainly didn't want that to happen.

 

When he mentioned Anna, she began to wonder if her loyal maidservant was more devoted to her husband than she was to her. Was she spying on her as well?

 

“I did not take them with me because I thought that the driver would be sufficient to protect me. It must be so boring for them to just stand by as I paint. Lady Buccleuch had her own servants with her so I was safe in her company.”

[Blackguard]

"You are not to worry about the boredom of servants," Esteban replied evenly. It was clear that he was being critical. "London is a dangerous place," he insisted. "I will not have anything befall you. This is done to protect you." And your honor.

 

"I shall hear no more excuses," he declared as they walked. "Do not force me to take stronger measures." It was unclear what he meant, but from the tone of his voice whatever steps were involved would likely restrict her freedom more.

 

"Bedlam is for the insane. Best to leave it to the insane. Use your gifts for the advancement of our interests in England, and that of His Highness." Would she understand what he was saying? More importantly, would she comply?

[Sophia de la Cerda]

“I understand.” Sophia knew that he was reprimanding her, and she was glad that they were not at home now. He would not risk berating his wife in the palace where anyone could overhear. It seemed to her that he was barely keeping his temper in check. “I already told you that I would take Karl with me whenever I left the house.”

 

She was fairly certain that he was as concerned about her getting into mischief as he was about her safety. The petite singer did not like being spied on. As soon as Juan returned to London, she would implore him to tell Esteban to stop. He should know that she would never do anything to embarrass either him or Spain. If he truly loved her, he would trust her. Maybe he wasn't even aware that her husband watched her like a hawk.

 

Tendrils of fear wrapped around her heart when he spoke of taking stronger measures. She felt more like a prisoner than a wife. Had Esteban already forgotten that she was the reason he had been allowed to see the Queen? Why could he not focus on her accomplishments instead of her mistakes?

 

“Visiting charities helps to improve the relationships between England and Spain, does it not?” Sophia asked softly. “It shows that we genuinely care about the English people. I am probably the first Ambassador's wife who has ever become involved in local charity work. I think His Highness would be proud of me for it. There are other ways to help than singing for the patients at Bedlam.”

 

She looked up at him. “Did I do the right thing by telling the Queen about my suspicions? If anyone can find out what is going on there, it is she.”

[Blackguard]

It was good that she remembered her promise with respect to Karl. He nodded with her general advocacy of involvement in charity.

 

"Go to an orphanage and sing. Sing to wounded soldiers. The insane, however, are dangerous. They are apt to attack you and, truth be told, few sympathies are mustered for mad men. You earn less regard by helping those that are shunned as opposed to those who are pitied. People pity the poor. People shun the insane. Your tie is like an investment Sophia. You have only so much to spend, so spend it in a way designed to maximize the return."

 

As for whether she had been wise to raise the issue with the Queen, he replied "I suppose we will know with time. I would have advised against it. It was a most curious topic to raise with the Queen, especially with no evidence. It would have been better for Monmouth's wife to look into it. That would not have seemed to be a foreign intrusion."

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia understood what he meant. She should stick to the charities that everyone else supported rather than try to gain sympathy for Bedlam, which most courtiers avoided. “I thought that maybe my singing might help them improve. Music is able to soothe and heal. I doubt they would be allowed close enough to harm me, and anyway, I have Karl to protect me. It seems so sad that they are locked away and forgotten. I just wanted to bring them some cheer.”

 

So if she had asked him, he would have advised against telling the Queen about the discoveries she and Lady Buccleuch had made on their impromptu visit to the asylum. “Why was it curious? She is concerned about her subjects and something strange is going on there. We did have proof. If the warden had not been hiding something, he would not have gone to such elaborate lengths to provide an audience of fake patients. He could have simply told us that he was worried about our safety instead of trying to fool us.

 

“I am not foreign to Her Majesty or Lady Mountjoy, but I was hoping that they would look more favorably on Spain because of my concern. If they find out that something is amiss at the hospital, then perhaps His Highness will benefit because I spoke up about my suspicions.”

[Blackguard]

"Noble ladies live sheltered lives," her husband began. "Lunatics can chew their own fingers off, strangle cats for pleasure, eat excrement, talk to people that do not exist, or beat their heads against a wall for no reason. Singing will not cure them. They are locked away to protect themselves and protect other people from being attacked," he explained patiently.

 

"The warden acted strangely, but that is not enough evidence to judge something sinister. It is likely he was attempting a ruse so as to not upset you and the Duchess with the harsh truth of the mad. While you are not foreign to the Queen in one sense, you are now Spanish and you are seeking to level charges against an Englishman and an English institution. One does that very carefully when one is a guest in a country."

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia wrinkled her nose at his description of the insane. Did they truly do such awful things? When she thought of them, the images in her mind were of sad people who believed they had nothing to live for or who had gone through experiences that had left them terrified of the outside world. She knew that some of them could become violent, but she thought they acted out of fear.

 

If they were unreasonably vicious, maybe the warden had truly been trying to protect the Duchess and herself. But why the ruse? And why was his office so luxurious if he wasn't embezzling money? Maybe Lord Dundarg had been right about the warden accepting bribes. If that was so, then some of the patients were probably not insane at all, just inconvenient relations that their families wanted to get rid of. She still believed that something odd was going on.

 

The petite Baroness did not believe she had accused the warden of anything. “I was only expressing my uneasiness, nothing more. The Queen seemed to take my concerns seriously, so I have done what I can. If I come across anything else I am unsure of, I will ask you about it before I speak of it to anyone. The last thing I want to do is unintentionally make things more difficult for you or His Highness.”

 

She sighed softly. Her voice sounded very young and innocent when she added: “I was only trying to help.”

[Blackguard]

"Si, si. I comprehend," Esteban replied patiently, as a father might with a daughter. He patted her hand lightly to reassure her.

 

"You have learned something valuable. Let us speak no more of it. Let us speak of paintings. I wish to see your favorites," he added indulgently.

 

And so they walked away to the Portrait Gallery to admire paintings for a time ... .

 

OOC~ fin?

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia nearly jumped when he patted her hand. He hardly ever touched her, and she was both pleased and surprised. He didn't seem to be disappointed in her, and he was kind without being patronizing, much as her own father had been. Even though he is only ten years my senior, I must seem very young to him. He is more like a guardian than a husband. Is that why is so aloof with me? Because he thinks of me as a child?

 

It also appeared that he liked the role of teacher. Maybe she should act unsure of herself more often and ask him for his advice even when she didn't need it in order to play up their differences and make him look wise. Was what that what he had wanted all along?

 

She grinned when he said he said he wanted to see her favorite paintings. He was usually not so accommodating and attentive, and rarely expressed interest in her opinions, even about something as innocuous as art. He must know how much she loved it, though, because of the many paintings and sculptures she had bought during their travels.

 

As she pointed out the ones that appealed to her, she thought of something she wished to ask him, but that could wait for another day. She didn't want to risk spoiling this pleasant interlude, one of the few she had ever shared with him.

 

~finis~ and thanks to both of you!