The Spanish Party (Thursday Evening 12/30)- Xmas 1677

[Duncan Melville]

Charles, Catherine, Davina & Duncan

 

Duncan’s brow furrowed. That a King-assigned ward was misbehaving was bad enough. That she was keeping the company of street boys who could get her into real trouble, like a pregnancy, was even worse. But that Lady Kendishall was somehow promoting it was… unbelievable. I must ask her about the matter. Langdon could get in serious trouble if this is not defused.

 

“I am certain that one of the urchins told her a blatant lie, and she did not have the good sense to test its truthfulness before forming an opinion”, the Lowlander said. “She could be the impulsive kind”. If what his superior said was true, that was probably the case. “I wonder if she understands what it means to be granted a ward by His Grace Charles. It probably has a different meaning and custom in France”. The viscount was certain that the matter was just a great miscommunication. “Yet, I must say that you are well within the right, and perhaps the obligation, to act as you deem fit regarding this young lady. I, for one, would have not impeded your duties”.

 

That was the gist of it. Charles was responsible to the king. If something happened to the girl, no matter who was at fault, Lord Langdon would be deemed guilty of not fulfilling his duties to Charles II. That would not be a good thing at all.

 

There was another compliment from Miss Sedley, one to which Duncan smiled. If he continued the exchange, it would have no end.

 

He was searching for the best response when mistress Davina joined the trio, and saved the viscount from his own awkwardness. They had just greeted their hostess but a few moments before, so he smiled and nodded politely to her.

 

The exchange between the two young ladies was polite, about topics Duncan did not know about, so he kept silent, content to be in their little group. He grabbed another bit of finger food from a passing tray, though, to give himself something to do. This one was a hardboiled egg cut lengthwise in half, with the yolk mixed with pepper, chopped cilantro, onion juice and fermented barley, and then the halves closed around the mixture. The Scotch had tried it before, and he smiled contentedly at its mild taste, uncommon in the spicy Spanish cuisine. A Moorish inheritance, for sure. It is far too delicate to be purely Castilian.

 

Davina’s question brought him out of his reverie. "Andalusian eggs", he said to his three companions. "Mild though unusual taste. You should try them". He then answered her question. “Alas, non. My lady wife had to remain in Melville Castle with our baby daughter, due to the weather. I would not dare risk either of them to the cold of winter unless the need was dire. Perhaps next season”. He was about to say that they would invite her to tea when Ophelia arrived in London, but decided not to. He would be forced to say something to their other two companions, and his wife did not like large gatherings. The invitation would have to be a surprise.

[Blackguard]

Sophia and Montagu

 

Some might think that English cuisine was an oxymoron, but an Englishman would never give life to that insult. Ralph merely nodded at her diplomatic observation about good and bad.

 

"You would be wise to visit France when there is peace. I should think the war will be over in a year or two. Most wars last but a handful of years," he noted. Perhaps it was to encourage her.

 

As for the opera, he was equally encouraging. "I should hope not that it is your one and only performance," he complained. "You have real skill for it. You must not hide your voice from the world." Or your body for that matter. As for the comment about stags, Ralph chuckled and replied "I think you may have, actually."

[Blackguard]

Francis & Frances joining Lord Toledo's Big Group

 

Kingston attempted to introduce Frances but Bristol was the first to respond. "Everyone knows Le Belle Stuart. A most Happy Holiday Your Grace." He was clearly an admirer of hers. Baintree had not met her formally but chose to say nothing of it. He did not wish to be viewed as an outsider. Rupert offered a welcoming smile while Peg Hughes was studying Richmond's dress to see if it was more expensive than her own. "Welcome Your Grace," Toledo gushed, happy to have her attend.

 

The talking ceased so that Frances Stuart could say whatever she wished. She was due that deference.

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles, Catherine, Davina & Duncan

 

Duncan had suggested that Caroline was impulsive. That seemed believable enough. He suggested that customs might be different in France. "I should think it would be even more clear in France. Would anyone interfere with the wishes of King Louis?" Charles doubted it. The Sun King held even more power than his English cousin. At least Catherine seemed sympathetic. He was somewhat surprised that his mistress did not swear at the French woman with venom. Catherine was like that -- willing to defend her lover completely, or so Charles thought.

 

Davina's arrival changed the tenor of the conversation as Charles was required to be gay. As Davina and Catherine spoke, Charles imagined that Davina would pretend to hardly know him. It was what he would have done to protect against inquiring minds.

 

Davina looped her arm through his and he nearly jumped in surprise. Blazing Cannons! What are you doing? A 23 year old male is not well equipped to understand, let alone control, the thoughts of two females sizing up each other in the company of the male. Charles was left speechless for a moment as he struggled for things to say.

 

Catherine mentioned the lie about arranging the Queen's escort. How was Davina going to answer that? He was ready to answer it but the question was not directed to him. Things only became more awkward when Davina mentioned how very adept he was at everything. Did she realize how uncomfortable she was making things? Keep our secret! was the thought he could only hope to send via telepathy.

 

"Miss Wellsley is too kind," Charles managed. "I am pleased to serve the Queen whenever I can." He hoped to keep things formal and aloof.

 

What was he to do about her arm? He could not shake it loose. That would be an insult to Davina and he was far too sweet on her to do anything to make her unhappy. He could not loop his free arm with Catherine. That would be even more awkward. Catherine and he were not married, but they were a couple. It was hard for his young mind to know the correct protocol. He had not been in a similar position. This is too complicated, he lamented to himself. Not only was it complicated, but dangerous as well.

[Davina Wellsley]

Charles, Catherine, Davina & Duncan

 

Oft times ones actions are not immediately discerned and for Davina this was now the case.

 

Her desire to put her stamp on her lover in front of another lover had been an impulse and she had not stopped to think everything through. Now, with her arm tucked thru his, she knew it had been an unwise choice and so now tried to amend.

 

Feeling him tense beneath the warmth of her hand ever so slightly caused her to remove her arm in what she hoped was as casual as the taking of it had been as he gave his reply her features not changing as she continued with Lord Melville but offered no reason as to her action.

 

"You have a child then? And so must be recent for you to have left them both behind - that must be a hardship - I know I should feel thusly but tis important to keep both Safe. Will you pass on Felicitations to your Lady Lord Melville?"

 

"Eggs? Well I have watched the passing of trays since arrival but as yet not ventured to try. Have you Mistress Sedly already sampled - perhaps you can offer me encouragement?"

 

Her gaze once more returned to the other woman. She did not look at Charles and had a sinking feeling that he would be most unplesant to her when next they met.

 

She would be wise to remember her own words to others' - eyes and ears everywhere.

[Aria]

Duncan, Charles, Davina, and Catherine

 

Catherine would come to Charles' defense if she thought it was needed, but in this case, she believed that Lady Kendishall had the right idea. Frances needed a new place to live. If the Frenchwoman truly had friends in high places, she could petition the King to transfer guardianship of the girl to her. Catherine definitely planned on getting to know her, for perhaps she would be able to help.

 

However, now there was a more pressing problem at hand. Mistress Wellsley's arm was still entwined with Charles', and he didn't even attempt to pull away. They were definitely more than casual acquaintances. He looked a bit uncomfortable, but Catherine wasn't sure if it was from guilt or embarrassment. Until the other woman claimed that Lord Langdon was adept at everything ….

 

At that moment, everything fell into place. Mistress Catherine Sedley might not be the prettiest flower in the garden, but she could very well be the sharpest knife in the drawer. She would make discreet inquiries into the Queen's activities, but whether or not she found proof, she was fairly certain that there had been no outing that had required Life Guards.

 

Her blood boiled with rage, but she kept her composure. She knew that it was unfair to ask Charles to be faithful to her when she wanted to resume her affair with the Duke of York, But now that she was his mistress, she expected honesty from him. If he wanted to take another lover, he should have run it by her first. Instead, he had planned a tryst right in front of her. How foolish she must have looked to them both!

 

Charles said that he was pleased to serve the Queen, but Catherine didn't think it was the Queen he had been serving.

 

“I, too, am glad that court is being held here this winter,” she agreed, her smile still in place. “Perhaps the two of us should get together before the season ends. Any friend of Lord Langdon is a friend of mine.” She glanced toward the handsome Scot. “As I already told Lord Melville, Lord Langdon has an excellent taste in friends.”

 

Know thy enemy.

 

For enemy she was.

 

After what seemed like an eternity, Mistress Wellsley finally released Charles' arm. So Lord Melville had a wife and infant daughter. Was that why he had seemed embarrassed by her flattery? She looked dubiously at the tray a servant was slowly carrying past them. “If the eggs are mild, I may try one.” she said. To Davina: “Stay away from anything red if you don't want to burn your mouth. I found that out the hard way.”

 

Her attention turned to Lord Melville. “How old is your daughter, my lord? My little Caroline is eight months old and already learning how to walk. If your family is going to join you at court next season, maybe our daughters can play together.”

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia and Montagu

 

“Do they? If I remember my history right, there was one not long ago that lasted thirty years and another that lasted eighty.” Sophia frowned becomingly. “No, I think that was the same war and its length depended on what country you were from.” A shrug of her lace-trimmed shoulders. “Something like that, anyway. I can't say that I understand politics very well.

 

“I do hope you are right and this one will be over quickly. I would love to attend a French opera. I suppose that when France and Spain are at peace, my lord husband could be sent there instead of England. An Ambassador must go wherever his country sends him. If that does happen, I shall most likely need your advice.”

 

Color rose beneath Sophia's fair cheeks when he complemented her voice. “Thank you again. I will certainly be performing at court events, but not in another full-scale opera unless His Majesty commissions a second one. There is other entertainment planned for tonight, but I shall sing if one of my guests requests it.” Was she trying to plant an idea in his mind?

 

“I am fairly sure I have not,” she countered with a disarming smile. The innuendo in her statement had not been intentional, but she did understand the implications of what she had said and tried to diffuse its effect. “I have yet to see a gentlemen walking around with antlers upon his head.”

[Blackguard]

Sophia

 

"Yes, quite right on that horrid 30 year affair," Ralph admitted. "I meant that the prior two Dutch Wars had been short in duration."

 

She talked about a possible assignment to France, which piqued his interest. "Your husband is very close to Don Juan de Austria is he not? Why is he here in England rather than in Madrid I wonder? Perhaps he is a romantic and wishes to stay in the country in which he met you," the diplomat offered with florid lightness.

 

As for the antlers, Montagu replied cryptically "Certainly not on their heads." He offered a sly smile.

[Duncan Melville]

Charles, Catherine, Davina & Duncan

 

“You are correct, my lord. I had not thought about the French king being an absolute monarch. As I stated before, I side with you on this. Some women, and most children, do not understand a man’s duty towards his liege”. Perhaps the concept was a tad archaic, but it was very valid in Duncan’s mind.

 

Davina arrived then, and looped her arm around Charles’ own. Hmm… I had not seen such familiarity before… unless they are both part of the libertine set. If so, either they have both hidden it very well, or I have been very, very blind… For a moment, the Lowlander thought he perceived a certain tightness on Lord Langdon, but it was just a momentary thought. Perhaps the Scotch was still tired from the trip and was seeing things.

 

“May God keep the Queen in perfect health”, was all that the viscount thought to say. Then Mistress Davina inquired about his daughter. Duncan’s face brightened. ”Aye, baby Ellen was born a few days before last court season. She is but a few months old, not even a year. Winter would not have been kind to her, or to my lady wife”. A smile had crept to his lips at the thought of his wife and daughter. “You are too kind Mistress Wellesley. I will make sure to pass on your regards to my wife. She will be very thankful for your thoughtfulness”. Indeed, the felicitations of one of the Queen’s ladies was something to appreciate. “Perhaps you would be so kind as to accept an invitation to visit them when they come to London?” The Lowlander had totally forgotten his decision to extend the invitation at some other time.

 

The viscount called one of the tray-carrying servants and pointed to a few of the less spicy appetizers. “This is cured ham, that one is anchovies, this is blood sausage, that one is goat cheese…” he did take a couple of the spiciest, and the last one made him sneeze and sweat a bit, but even so he found it very enjoyable. He did have to get another glass of wine, though, to keep his throat from coughing involuntarily. “Spanish cuisine is very likeable once you get to know what you enjoy. Not everything is spicy, although it may seem so at first”. Many an officer had laughed at him when he was a young subaltern. He had had to learn and get used to the food of half a dozen different countries.

 

“I wholeheartedly agree with you, Miss Sedley. Lord Langdon has excellent taste… in everything”.

 

And then Catherine mentioned her daughter being eight months old, and the possibility of their daughters playing together. “My wife would kill me if she knew I do not keep an exact count of Ellen’s age in months, days, and even hours”, Duncan said sheepishly, “but she must be five-odd months old now. At this age the difference in age with your daughter may seem great, but as time passes, if will fade”. The prospect of Ellen having a playmate besides Nessia MacGregor was appealing. Cultivating acquaintances, friendships, and alliances could never be started too early. “If my lady wife decides to come to London next season, it will be an honour to host you and your daughter at Melville House. The gardens are ample, the hounds are gentle with children, and they can try to catch John, our cat, if it strikes their fancy. He is a good natured and playful creature”. It was left unsaid that the cat had been named John after John Maitland, and that he had been castrated immediately after being named.

 

The Lowlander was totally clueless as to the tension between the two ladies. Had he noticed, or if Charles were to somehow make him notice, he would invite one of the young ladies, most probably Catherine, to mingle with others.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia and Montagu

 

“Then perhaps this one will end soon as well. I think it has been going on longer than I have lived in England, and I moved here a little over a year ago. Sometimes war seems to be the only subject people talk about. I wonder what the most popular topic of conversation will be when there is peace.”

 

Sophia was only speculating about her husband being assigned to France in the future. It was possible that Juan would wish him to remain here where he was already known and respected. Yet Ambassadors did tend to travel around a lot. Perhaps one reason Esteban had agreed to marry her when he knew that she and his master were in love with each other was because she loved to travel and would see an appointment to another country as an exciting adventure rather than an upsetting change.

 

Not that she wanted to leave England anytime soon. She had once thought of it as a backwards island, but now she was rather fond of her new home.

 

“Yes, I believe that my lord husband has the honor of being one of Don Juan's most trusted associates. He wanted to be the Ambassador to England long before he met me, so it is not romantic notions that keep him here. Ours was an arranged marriage, not a love match.” Her long sigh made her ample bosom heave. “In fact, we rarely see each other except at court events. He is a very busy man.”

 

It never hurt to play the neglected wife. It wasn't even a ruse. Her husband spent very little time with her. The Ambassador was obviously attracted to her. If he thought she was lonely and she played her cards right, he might drop a useful tidbit of information or two that Esteban would later thank her for.

 

As for antlers: “If they are not on their heads,” she asked, her expression an intriguing mixture of virtuous innocence and cheeky guile, “then where would they be?”

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles, Catherine, Davina & Duncan

 

So far so good To Langdon's untrained eye, Catherine seemed to not have an elevated suspicion of Davina. The latter let go of his arm and everyone was conversing normally. That had to be a good sign to the young man.

 

Nevertheless, Charles was not naive enough to doubt that Catherine would ask how well he knew the Queen's lady. How was he to answer? Some ideas came to mind. If he acted too defensive, Catherine would suspect something. Perhaps instead of defense, I go over to offense, he told himself, still trying to figure out how he might avoid the questioning in the first place.

 

Fortunately, Duncan was the one doing the talking, allowing him precious moments to plot. Charles smiled as Duncan confirmed the young earl's good taste in everything too. He knew it was to flatter Catherine, but he accepted the praise nevertheless.

 

Perhaps I could say Davina was likely inebriated? He was trying out statements to be used later with Catherine. No, he needed something better. I should play dumb. That seemed a safer solution.

[Davina Wellsley]

Charles, Catherine, Davina & Duncan

 

Davina knew that Mistress Sedley had made an assumption based on her own actions and so what she said or did next was of great importance. She could not have Charles be looked at by Lord Melville in any other way than what he so far had seen - her desire to egg on her lover's mistress for sport had been ill timed indeed.

 

She was relieved to see that Lord Melville did not call attention to anything and she was not familiar enough with him to be able to read his features so had to think he would simply forget or better yet attribute it to "Courtly Friendships" .....

 

Mistress Sedley on the other hand would not be so forgiving.

 

It was an irratition that Charles had thought to parade her here at a Court Function when almost all knew her to have been another man's woman and she had a child as well but then Courtiers were fickle creatures and adapt at changing sides on a whim. Neither woman had a claim to Charles but to Davina her presence put their own relationship into question.

 

But logic also told her that he could hardly show her off as he was with Sedley. She a Peer's daughter and one with a reputation that was very well known for its being without blemish.

 

No. Better to play at Peacemaker than Prankster at least in this case. She would meet Charles soon and then offer apologies but then ask him to not repeat this night in her presence again for it was a pull on her heart having to watch another of her sex claim him.

 

"I shall gladly accept the offer if your Lady so agrees Lord Melville. Spring will be here soon enough and with it warmer weather fit for safe travels."

 

She smiled across at him.

 

To Mistress Sedley she quirked a brow as she hesitated over the 'eggs' asking

 

"Ah then I shall take heed of your words indeed for I have no desire to suffer such an injury and so shall try what Lord Melville instructs. Doubtless there shall be opportunities for such a thing Mistress Sedley and there is but a week left afore Twelth Night. You will attend the Ball on Saturday?"

 

She bit into the egg delicately with just a tiny amount taken into her mouth unsure of what she would taste then after a pause smiled exclaiming to them all

 

"Why tis delicious and so you must all try!"

[Aria]

Charles, Catherine, Davina, and Duncan

 

Charles was strangely silent. Catherine wondered what he was thinking as Lord Melville and Mistress Wellsley made plans to get together when the Scot's family came to court. She was going to ask her lover quite a few questions on the way home, so perhaps it was fortunate that he didn't expend too much breath at the moment. He would be doing plenty of explaining when the party was over.

 

It was possible, she grudgingly admitted, that her suspicions were only paranoia. There were many other reasons why Davina could have acted so inappropriately. Still, a niggling feeling at the back of her mind told her that Charles was cheating on her. She would have to word her questions carefully if she was to find out the truth.

 

Lord Melville stopped a servant with a tray of appetizers, which brought Catherine out of her reverie. She listened as he pointed out which were mild and she studied them carefully, wondering what she should choose. Her earlier attack by a hot pepper had not been forgotten and she didn't want to repeat the experience.

 

The handsome Scot then surprised her with a subtly flirtatious comment, and she grinned at him. Or was he flattering Mistress Wellsley instead? What if he also knew that Charles and Davina were having an affair right under her nose? What if everyone at court knew except her? No, his comment had been directed towards her and there was no malice in it. Calm down, she told herself. And quit jumping to conclusions. The truth will out, as Shakespeare wrote. It always does.

 

“I don't think any gentleman remembers his child's exact age,” she reassured him. “That is one of a mother's many jobs. If court reconvenes in the spring, Ellen will be a bit older than Caroline is now, and Caroline will be a year old. They will probably both be toddling around by then. I would be delighted to accept your invitation, as long as your lady wife approves. Melville House sounds like a lovely place.”

 

Davina took a stuffed egg and Catherine did the same. The Queen's lady seemed geninuely interested in another meeting with her, which could mean she had nothing to hide or that she didn't see Catherine as a threat. “Perhaps we can have tea together or go shopping. It's never to early to plan our spring wardrobes.”

 

“Of course I will be at the ball.” She smiled over at Charles. “Lord Langdon will be escorting me.” At least, she hoped he would. They had not discussed it yet. “And you're right, Mistress Wellsley. These eggs are delicious.” Her smile turned to Duncan. “Thank you for suggesting them, my lord.”

[Charles Audley]

Toledo's group

Charles hummed thoughtfully as Bystead lamented the lack of attention the northern front received. In truth, he thought that the Baltic was a subsidiary theatre but it would not be politic to say so in such bald terms.

 

"I take your point," he said instead, voice sympathetic, "but in defence of the western viewpoint, the war can be lost in the Baltic but it can be won in Flanders."

 

He grinned.

 

"And bear in mind that Danish success makes things seem more secure and less urgent in the Baltic than along the Rhine. The reward for work well done is more work, after all."

 

Joined by Francis & Frances

 

Further talk on the subject was curtailed by the arrival of Kingston and the Duchess of Richmond. Charles gave Francis a smile and nod in greeting and laughed merrily as Bristol claimed that no introductions were needed for la Belle Stuart.

 

"That is true Bristol, but it does not mean we can expect her to keep track of such riff raff as, oh, myself, for instance."

 

He bowed to the Duchess, flowing through the requisite formalities.

 

"Charles Audley, Earl of Chatham, at your service your grace."

[George Hardwick III]

Beverley & George

 

"Thank the saints for that." George breathed at Bev's observation, "the Queen's lady and I have a history of conflict. She is a most perplexing creature, I would never again make the mistake of thinking she needs or desires my assistance!" A part of him wanted to tell the young Viscount all about it - but he halted as he was struck by the appealing length of the others lashes (as Beverly looked across the room.)

 

As noted by the Earl more than once, young St Leger was a highly attractive man.

 

"Ah yes, I received your note just before I left." Telling himself to focus, George was smiling broadly none the less. "Grand news, and an appointment upon such an auspicious day, I am honoured ." he took the liberty of acquiring a drink for himself and his young companion from passing tray. "You are a man who moves swiftly Beverly." he raised his own glass as in a toast of thanks.

 

"Please tell me you shall attend with me, I must admit being struck with nerves at the prospect of meeting such a great man one to one."

[Blackguard]

Sophia and Montagu

 

"Without the war I fear we shall have nothing to discuss but the weather," Montagu chuckled. "We cannot have that."

 

As for Sophia praise of her husband's influence with Don Juan, that was to be expected. In contrast, the disclosure so openly that it was not a love match and that she felt ignored came as something of a surprise. "Well then, if I may say so, your husband is too concerned about the affections of Don Juan and not enough about his wife. Is his eyesight failing that he cannot see your beauty? Is he deaf so that he hears not the lyrical beauty of your voice? But, I did not mean to offend you Baroness, so I pray that you take no umbrage."

 

If they are not on their heads,” she asked, her expression an intriguing mixture of virtuous innocence and cheeky guile, “then where would they be?”

 

"Why, on the wall of course," he answered in a similar cheeky fashion.

[Francis Kirke]

Toledo's Group

 

Francis had no idea what they had been talking about before, and all were somewhat focused on the duchess, rightly so.

 

He simply had very little to do in that scenario but stand on prettily and watch the exchanges. He may have given a smile to Chatham, who had been at the party the night before as well as in the wine cellar. He had not seen any of that crew since other than Audley, had he? Vaguely, he wondered what Dorset was about; all he had heard was talk of some potential lofty marriages* which was hilariously ironic considering he had just gotten unmarried.

 

Instead, he decided to compliment the other lady nearest him.

 

"If it is not too bold, Mrs. Hughes, you are looking very lovely. The season suits you." He would kiss her hand if she offered it.

 

Being a man of nearly thirty, he had learned that when one woman had all the attention, the others did not like it.

 

(OOC - from the rumours )

[Duncan Melville]

Charles, Davina, Catherine, and Duncan

 

Duncan continued to be totally clueless to the undercurrents in front of his eyes. He was just happy that his wife and daughter would have ladies of quality visit them come spring… or the next time they were in London at least.

 

Charles’ silence felt odd somehow. Did he know something about the coming war that he had not related yet? Could be, after all he did ask about the state of the realm in the Lowlands. The viscount would have to inquire later, either with his commanding officer, or with others in the know.

 

“I am certain that my lady wife will agree, Mistress Wellsley. You will receive an invitation come spring”. The Lowlander was certain his wife would both agree to and enjoy the visit. My Book Mouse, how I miss you and our dear daughter… Another smile appeared in his lips.

 

Both young ladies tasted the eggs and found them to their liking. “I learned what to eat and what not to the hard way, by having other soldiers laugh at my choking on things I could not even pronounce. But I persevered and, with time, I even learned to enjoy even a good red, hot pepper”. To illustrate the point, he took one that had been stuffed with roasted chopped beef, and bit on its end. It was hot, and he did take a sip from his wine glass, but it was bearable. The first time he had tried one years before, it had made his tears run.

 

Then Catherine assured him it was all right not to know his daughter’s exact age. He relaxed inwardly. “Yes, both girls shall have grown a bit by spring. They will enjoy the gardens, and each other's company, I am certain”.

 

The young beauties started chatting among themselves, and that left the viscount to take a quick look around, wondering who had arrived to the party.

[Aria]

Toledo's group

 

Frances preened when Bristol called her 'Le Belle Stuart.' Because of her smallpox scars, she was no longer beautiful, but that nickname made her feel as if she was. She smiled warmly at him and then at each of the others in turn. “Happy Holidays to you all.” To Toledo: “Thank you for inviting me, Your Excellency.” She glanced over at Francis with a conspiratorial look, but said nothing about the Spaniard's choice of clothes … yet.

 

Noticing Peg Hughes studying her gown, she returned her scrutiny in kind, but her examination was cut short by the words of one of the gentlemen she didn't know, a dark striking fellow with a sharp, hawkish face, who presented her with a flourishing bow. “I would not call you riff-raff, my lord,” she disagreed, “And now that we've met, I will never forget you.” In truth, she probably would. She had never been good at remembering faces; she was better with names.

 

Francis, meanwhile, complimented Peg, which annoyed the Duchess a bit. No matter. She had the attention of all the men and she held up one hand for all of them to kiss, presenting it first to Lord Chatham. “So are you really at my service, my lord, or were you just being polite?”

 

Was she trying to make Lord Kingston jealous, perhaps?

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia and Montagu

 

“Which is exactly the reason London needs more operas. It will give everyone something to discuss. And for that to happen, an opera house needs to be built in London, do you not agree?” Since Montagu claimed to be a fan of the opera, perhaps he would be inspired by the idea and assist her with the project. A girl could always hope.

 

Like all Germans, Sophia was blunt by nature and saw nothing wrong with stating the obvious. Most marriages between nobles were not based on love, after all. A young lady had to wed the gentleman her father or guardian chose for her, regardless of her own feelings. The diminutive blonde had been instrumental in orchestrating her own marriage, but only because she would be able to see Juan more often if she were the wife of one of his associates. It was much easier to hide their affair since they now had an excuse to visit each other without arousing suspicions or setting tongues to wagging.

 

A lovely crimson tint rose beneath her porcelain cheeks at the Ambassador's complement. “I am not offended at all, Your Excellency” She grinned mischievously. “We performers enjoy flattery. Sometimes, I just wish it would come from my lord husband's lips. He seems completely immune to my charms. He is kind to me, though, so I really can't complain.”

 

Sophia knew she shouldn't flirt with him, but she just couldn't help herself when a witty comeback to his comment about antlers insinuated itself in her mind. “Of course,” she agreed. “I should have thought of that. If you have antlers hanging on your wall, I imagine that they are huge.”

[Charles Whitehurst]

The Gods were kind to Charles in that moment. No one directed a question at him. Instead, talk was of young children and Spanish delicacies, both subjects in which he was ignorant.

 

Without need to say anything, he merely smiled pleasantly and took some wine from a passing servant. He needed a drink, and badly. Not tempted to nibble on eggs, he watched Davina doing so, imagining something lurid momentarily. As naturally as he could he shifted his gaze to Catherine and let his smile widen. She would like that surely. When she announced that Charles would escort her to the Ball he moved to take a deep drink of the red wine so as to avoid any ability to react. Instead, it caused him to cough more than once and his gaze went down to his jacket to make sure that he had not spilled any wine on his precious tunic. "Sorry," he apologized.

 

Charles was in a no mans land, more ways than one. Despite his hope that all was normal, he felt as a soldier does when too far from friendly lines and too close to hostile lines. One must move very carefully in such situations or, better yet, dig in and hope that the danger shall pass.

[Davina Wellsley]

Charles, Davina, Catherine, and Duncan and Davina Leaving

 

That one sentance was Declarative and so Davina knew that her assumption had been correct - Mistress Sedley was making it very clear that she and Lord Langdon were indeed together - and thus it was also a warning of sorts for her too.

 

clever. yet hardly an orginal and what if he does not do as you think hmm?

 

The talk of children was, naturally, not something she could speak of but she did have to give some credit to the other woman - talking of one's bastard so openly in Company with such indifference as if there was a 'husband' tucked neatly away in the countryside ... She wondered if Lord Melville would be so welcoming if he knew. Or mayhap he did and he accepted it.

 

"How fortunate for you then Mistress Sedely that Lord Langdon has no Duties that night and so can provide escort ..." She allowed the sentence to trail off turning to Lord Melville to also offer thanks. It was then that Charles seemed to 'choke' and her blue eyes turned to him.

 

"Are you well Lord Langdon?" Just the right amount of concern and she made no move towards him keeping the space between them.

 

Her thoughts dwelling on the possibility that he had been taken unawares by his other lovers' announcement and that caused her mouth to turn up at the corners a bit. There would be time enough in private for this to be further spoken of and it seemed the right time to take her leave.

 

"Ah. There is Lady Toledo. We have not yet paid our respects and I see my Brother with the Ambassador ... Lord Melville I shall claim a dance if you will give it and I would hear more of your Lady and daughter. Lord Langdon. Mistress Sedley ...."

 

She gave them a general reverence and smiled as she took her leave. It was the best thing she could do for Charles at the moment.

[Blackguard]

Toledo's group

 

"I suppose you are correct," the Dane admitted to Audley. Beating the Swedes would not end the war. "Beat the French in Flanders and the war is over. With English aid this is possible."

 

The arrival of the Duchess of Richmond changed things. All of a sudden the topic was dresses, as was often the case when ladies joined. "Why thank you Lord Kingston," Hughes replied, ready to elbow Prince Rupert to take heed of the compliment. "You look quite dashing as well."

 

Baintree turned to watch his sister speaking with Melville and Langdon. Melville seemed to be looking in their direction.

 

Sophia

 

"Yes, an opera house would be divine," Montagu admitted. "Immune to your charms? Surely not!" he objected as he looked towards the host. "That is what happens when beauties are wasted on old men, but your husband seems young enough."

 

When talk turned to antlers, it seemed that all the women at court had been spreading word about the size of his antlers. Ralph gave her a sly smile as if acknowledging the secret. "Why only the largest at court. Perhaps, you would like to see them some day?" The man was certainly brash.

[Aria]

Charles, Duncan, and Catherine with Davina departing

 

Instead of being ashamed of having a child out of wedlock, Catherine felt that bearing the daughter of the Duke of York was an honor. Caroline might be a bastard, but she was a royal bastard, and unless the current monarch had a legitimate son, she would one day be the daughter of the next King of England. She would have advantages that most legitimate nobles lacked and would most likely be married to a Duke or perhaps a foreign Prince. It was even possible that she would be given a title of her own.

 

York would never know that Caroline could be Charles' child. That was a secret that Catherine would take with her to her grave. In truth, she hoped that Caroline was Charles' daughter, and that she would eventually give him a son as well, one that he could claim as his own.

 

Lord Melville didn't appear to have any qualms about his daughter playing with York's bastard daughter. “I shall look forward to our visit,” she told him.

 

Catherine basked in the glow of Charles's smile. He wasn't saying much, which she still thought was a bit odd. He didn't even confirm that he would escort her to the ball, which she had been certain he would do. Mistress Wellsely's comment raised her suspicions again. Was she trying to give him an excuse to turn her down? If so, she wasn't very subtle about it. If Charles did refuse to accompany her, she would have no doubt about who he was with. And she would track them down …

 

Charles began to cough, and Catherine immediately stepped closer and put a hand upon his arm. “Are you all right?” She and Davina both spoke at the same time. Which one of them would he look at when he answered?

 

The Queen's lady chose to take her leave, claiming that she had not yet paid her respects to the hostess when Catherine had seen the two ladies and Duncan conversing earlier. Maybe she expected Charles to follow. Catherine's hand tightened a bit around his arm as she cordially bid Davina farewell.

 

Good riddance.

 

“She seems nice," she commented casually. Her dark eyes turned to Duncan. "Do you know her well, my lord?"

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia and Montagu

 

Her heart skipped a beat when he agreed that an opera house should be built in London. She had at least one person interested now and Sophia wondered if he was wealthy enough to invest in such a project. “It is one form of culture England sadly lacks. I am trying to gain interest in having one constructed. May I count on your support? All you need to do is spread the word.” A fat flaxen curl fell over her shoulder as she tilted her head to the side. “Do you know Lord Buckingham? I would like to speak to him about this.” Her lips turned down into a flirty little pout. “But I do not believe he knows I exist. I am not sure how to go about arranging a meeting with him.”

 

As to her husband's youth, Sophia shrugged. “I cannot help thinking that an older man might have been more attentive.” Her royal lover certainly was and he was more that thirty years her senior. “My lord husband is married more to his position than he is to me. I think I know why he wed me. This party was my idea and if the other Embassies follow suit, it will seem as if they are copying us. Spain was also the first foreign country to donate to the Queen's charities. I organized that as well. He married me for my social expertise, not my beauty or charm and certainly not out of passion.”

 

Sophia didn't generally listen to rumors and had no clue whether he was blessed or cursed in the 'antlers' department. When he claimed that his was the largest in court, she allowed her blue eyes to widen in awe even as she tried to ignore the pleasurable heat that permeated her body.

 

Stepping closer, she leaned toward him. “Your antlers are larger than the King's?” she whispered. “Not that I have seen them myself, but I have heard stories.” A melodramatic sigh. “I have only seen one pair of antlers in my life."

[Francis Kirke]

Toledo's Group

 

Francis was not the sort to get jealous in such a way. After all, they had never done anything sober before, so he could hardly claim any sort of territory.

 

Perhaps it was simply the attitude of a sailor, but he was happy to let the duchess get the sort of attention that duchesses were supposed to get. It was not as if he disliked Audley; then perhaps he would disapprove. That was a sentiment out of protection more than jealousy, and any gallant was protective.

 

"High praise from a lady who holds the Duke of Cumberland near," he replied. "I could never measure up to such gentlemanly gallantry and dash."

 

The young blond took a compliment with more humility than ego. It was simply his way. Most of the time. Sometimes ego got the best of any Villiers-blooded man or woman.

 

However, he was well-aware that the topic of conversation had likely changed as a result of the ladies, for it did not seem to recommence.

[Robert Saint-Leger]

Beverley & George

 

"Really?" Beverley asked, raising an eyebrow and looking in that direction. He was not very skilled at being sneaky, but there were plenty of people he could have been looking at. Or maybe he just told himself that. "I had thought her of most pleasing conversation. Perhaps that she is not yet married is unconventional, but she is yet young."

 

The viscount looked at most things through the lens of societal and religious values. Marriage was the first thing that came to his mind.

 

Beverley was blissfully unaware of George' estimation of his eyelashes. He knew he was not ugly and that was truly all that mattered at his rank. Of course he thought well of himself, but one's conceit did not generally match reality - even Beverley knew that.

 

"Oh, indeed, thank you." He accepted the drink and returned the toasting gesture. "As I said before, it is easy to be efficient when duty matches one's own thoughts." He was not the most eloquent. "I am pleased to do so for you, and pleased to be there. I think his highness anticipates that scenario as well."

[Charles Audley]

Toledo's Group

 

"But only because the Danish have kept the Swedes from landing on the Empire's rear like a falling house," Charles replied to Bystead with what he felt was the requisite politesse. Further discussion of the topic was curtailed by the arrival of KIngston and the Duchess of Richmond and the subsequent exchange of greetings.

 

Charles grinned at Frances' reply.

 

"I thank you for the thought your grace, but compared to my current company..." He gestured expansively, taking in Bristol, Cumberland and the two ambassadors. (Charles did not mean to cut Baintree dead. He had simply forgotten the other man's presence entirely.)

 

Kissing the offered hand, he straightened and smiled again at her question.

 

"I make it a habit, your grace, not to say anything I am not prepared to back up."

 

It was on the tip of his tongue to ask if she had any specific service in mind, but this was not quite the right sort of audience for that sort of remark.

[Charles Whitehurst]

OOC~ Since Duncan posted that he was away for a while, I will go ahead and post.

 

Charles, Duncan, and Catherine with Davina departing

 

When he coughed, Charles looked to Catherine of course. She was the one who touched his arm and he was fully aware that he needed to pretend not to know Davina well. "I am fine. Just went down the wrong pipe," he explained. It was only then that he answered Davina with "I am well thank you."

 

As Davina took her leave, the young Earl bade her farewell in the same manner as she addressed him. "Mistress Wellsley." He nodded in her direction as she departed, as he might do for a stranger departing.

 

Duncan was distracted by observing the larger group. Davina was going to see Sophia. Charles wanted to see Sophia as well, wanting to complain about that French shrew.

 

When Catherine asked how well Duncan knew Davina, Charles thought she was asking him. "Yes, she seems nice enough. I know her fairly well, as I do all the Queen's ladies and the King's gentlemen." That sounded innocent enough to him. Leaning in to Catherine, Charles whispered softly in her ear. "I think Miss Wellsley likes me, don't you think?" He was teasing her of course. "Admit that you were so jealous that you could think of nothing else. I could see it in your eyes." He was lying of course; he had not seen it. It was part of their game. "You must have been staring at me so hard that Miss Wellsley tried to come over and save me." He started laughing at the thought that he was telling the truth about Davina's motive while dismissing it at the same time with a jest. He was feeling inspired.

[Aria]

Toledo's Group

 

Frances heard Lord Kingston's reply to Mrs, Hughes' compliment. He was quite modest, and so was Lord Chatham. She supposed they both felt a bit inferior in such exalted company, much as she had felt when she had first come to court at the age of sixteen to serve the former Queen. Now, as a Duchess, she commanded respect from almost everyone and was equal in status to all but a small few.

 

Lord Chatham dutifully kissed her hand. His smile was enchanting, as were his words. “I will keep that in mind,” she declared with a mischievous grin.

 

Now she lifted her hand in the direction of Lord Toledo. “Is wearing black a Spanish tradition, Your Excellency?” She threw a quick sideways glance at Francis. He had dared her to ask, after all. “I’ve noticed that quite a few of your countrymen prefer it. I must admit the color suits you.” Actually, the only other Spaniards she remembered were Don Juan de Austria and the last Ambassador and she couldn't recall what colors they had worn.