A Clerical Cleansing to Start 1678 | Chapel 2/1 10am- Xmas 1677

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina and Anne-Elizabeth

She gave a small rather rueful smile as her gaze traveled over the scenery laid out before them.

"Yes. It has been here a long time and all of them would have been Celebrated but those days are no more. Given the current Political feeling its not the wisest thing to do. Nor the Safest. At least pubically."

"We have just come from Service and so being here will raise no brows. Your appearance on such a crowded morning has made Public your own Religious Views even if they are not true. You were wise to have done it. Such a thing will never happen! I wonder in what direction your thoughts will take."

"Yet I would counsel you to be alert still. Yours is a new face recent To Court and your performance was noted and even now opinions are formed."

"Weather to let go of something or try to salvage. The answer eludes you see"

She replied back to the question. 

[George Hardwick III]

George and Catriona

 

"I would wonder if it to your sisters credit that suitors don’t surround her like moths a flame?" George mused, "She is not one to encourage anyone she is not serious about. A dozen suitors would mean a dozen dalliances.  Exclusivity is praiseworthy in that circumstance. One day a man shall come that she wants to marry, and she is likely to march him to your doorstep herself!" he laughed.

"Well it is something to mull over," of possible portraits he replied, "I am not going anywhere, we've all the time in the world to do such a thing some time." 

He gave a small fractionally embarrassed smile as she accepted his insight with praise for his vision, "It is my artists eye, you see, looking beyond the flesh into the heart of ones subject. And though I've never painted you - yet - I think you will concede you have been my subject." he grinned more easily referring to the relationship that had had a most curious hiccup of a proposal at one stage.  "And with not one regret." he added.

"Ah, but i must not monopolise your time." he stepped back and gave an elegant bow, allowing her to continue along her way - and he along his.

 

He caught  glimpse of Davina, he would speak to her, and took a step in her direction. A peace pact should be drawn if naught else - but then another woman arrived upon Davina.

'Perhaps later...'  George altered his path and moved on past - a nod to Davina given - and he carried on outside.  He lingered there a while thinking to speak to her, but chill eventually drove him to carriage and then home.

 

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Francis and Sophia

 

“The normal fashion is to give it to them in person, is it not? I do not know him well enough to walk up to him and hand him a box.” Sophia had no idea that gifts were generally given by servants. She had not received any presents at her house. They were all delivered to the Embassy and Esteban brought them home to her.  She naturally assumed that they had been presented personally, the way that everyone had given their gifts to the King. During her first Christmas in England, she had been grieving for her father and had paid no attention to the holidays at all. There were still some English customs that she was ignorant of.

 

“A musical clock. It is rather simple in design, but it plays an aria from an Italian opera. It is not one that I have sung.” She lowered her voice to a whisper. “Well, not in England anyway.” He was the only person at court who knew her scandalous secret and she had performed that particular aria during an opera in Venice. “Do you think he will like something like that?"

 

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Davina and Anne-Elisabeth

 

“At the very least, they give this place character.” Especially the cynical saint above me.

 

Anne-Elisabeth knew that some of the courtiers here were probably secret Catholics who could name every saint that was carved above the benches. But they hid their true faith because revealing it could ruin them. The Countess was glad that she was apathetic when it came to religion. To her, Church was just another place to socialize. Being a newcomer to London, she needed to utilize every opportunity to be seen. If others thought her pious, so much the better, although she doubted they would hold that view for long. She embraced the libertine lifestyle wholeheartedly and saw no reason to pretend otherwise.

 

Of course the court of the Merry Monarch would never turn into a monastery. But it was an interesting notion and one that might lend itself well to an irreverent limerick. “I'll think on it more when I'm back in my room … tiny little space that it is. It's certainly not what I'm used to, but at least my muse can't flee very far from me there.”

 

Anne-Elisabeth would have liked to tell Davina that those who were appalled by her behavior weren't worth wasting her time on. But she didn't want to anger the other woman and she didn't know her well enough to be so frank with her. She nodded at Mistress Wellsley's advice. “I'm hoping that my appearance at the service today will repair any harm to my reputation that my poetry caused at the ball.” She grinned mischievously. “And it's fun to keep people guessing about you.”

 

Her expression became more serious when Davina revealed the direction her own thoughts had taken. “A difficult decision, whether you're talking about a favorite gown or a relationship. In the former case, I would say hold onto it and update it to the current style. In the latter situation, let it go. If the other person values you, they will seek you out. If they don't, then you will know that there's no longer a place for you in their life and you can move on.”

 

[Davina Wellsley]

"And where is the place you reside? Are you at St Marks or do you have your own Establishment?" Davina was curious. If she was at St. Marks that spoke of some funds but not enough and if the reply was her own then the question might be if it was property of her late husband or another Family member. She'd like to ask but they had but met.

"Your appearance here marks your Religion - true or not - it also gives all the other women the chance to look you over and either find you lacking or holding possibilities. You have an eye for clothing, carry yourself well yet with some haughtiness, are a Widow which will either be in your favor or aganist and THAT depends on the men and how you respond to them."

"Shall I apologize for my bluntness? I am old enough and a long time at Court and I find that it saves Time and sets the tone for any further conversations."

She was right. She was a long time at Court and as for her age well she thinks she was the older of the two which was the excuse if one were needed.

"And what do you want Court to guess about you Countess?"

"In my mind I have let it go but my heart .... therein lies the issue. It is not something that will ever bear fruit and there is hurt as well so in the end what you advise in the latter will be the outcome."  

Her own words had turned quiet and serious and it was then that she saw Lord Chichester and for a moment, in his pause, thought he was coming to her and her heart skipped a beat or two. Yet it was not to be and his simple gesture and change of direction made her full of sorrow.

It would not have been hard for the Countess to follow Davina's line of sight if she paid attention to such things.

[Catriona MacGregor]

George and Catriona

 

Cat would argue that her sister wouldn't flirt with anyone she wasn't interested in.  If she wanted something from that person, Fiona would probably be willing to deal with them for a short amount of time.  Of course, her attention span was fickle at best.  "Preferably sooner than later," Cat said, gazing upwards, as if sending the words directly to God.  Deliverance from her sister could almost be seen as divine intervention.  Of course, there might have been a bit of a laugh offered with the words as well.

"Well turn that artist's eye away from me.  The last thing anyone wants to see is my heart," she teased.  "Maybe once we leave winter's grip behind us, inspiration will hit."  Plenty of time to decide what sort and of whom the portrait could be.  His remark of monopolizing her time was met with a 'pshaw' and a smile.  "It is always lovely to see you, milord.  Until we meet again."  She paused for a moment, allowing him to move on towards the door.  Turning around, she dug out her handkerchief, intending to move to a more secluded corner of the church, away from prying eyes, to give in to the cough that was attempting to explode rudely from her chest.  Blasted English cold.  So different from Scotland.  At least, in Cat's eyes.

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Davina and Anne-Elisabeth

 

“St. Marks. I regret that I decided to stay there now, but I figured that there wasn't enough time left this season to fix up a house the way I want it. Next season, I hope to have my own residence. I've been thinking of getting a dog, but I need a bigger place first.” Anne-Elisabeth missed the dogs she'd had in Barbados. Hers had traveled with her, but he had been killed in the shipwreck with her family.

 

Lady Cambray was well-aware that she was being observed, both by ladies and gentlemen. She would do the same if she had been a court for awhile and saw a new face. And she knew that widows were judged by the way they behaved around men. Part of Davina's assessment surprised her, though. The Countess was most definitely arrogant, but she had not been aware that it was apparent in the way she carried herself. Should she play it up or tone it down?

 

“Oh no,” she chuckled. “Your bluntness doesn't bother me at all. In fact, I appreciate it and it tells me that you don't mind if I speak to you the same way. And I will heed your words, as you are so much more experienced in the ways of court than I. Sometimes I fear I will make glaring mistakes and people will think ill of me for them.” This was a valid fear. Anne-Elisabeth cared little for what others thought of her, but she would rather be ridiculed for something she had consciously done than for a social error that she had not intended to make.

 

“I just like to keep people wondering about me by doing opposing things, such as participating in a naughty limerick competition and then being bold enough to show my face at Church. Some courtiers might have thought that I was shameless during the ball, but here I am and lightening didn't even strike me down when I entered the Chapel. You'll most likely see me participate in other activities that contradict each other in the next few days. Soon, everyone will know a lot about me, so I'm taking advantage of being mysterious while I can.”

 

So it was ending a relationship that Lady Wellsley was contemplating. “Matters of the heart are always the most difficult,” she said. Luckily, the Countess kept her own heart guarded. She had already lost everyone who had been dear to her, and she didn't want to feel such loss again.

 

Anne-Elisabeth was a keen observer and she noticed that Mistress Wellsley's gaze traveled to a tall elegant gentleman, who nodded her to her before moving away. Was he the object of her affections? Had he rejected her for another? There was only one way to find out. “Who is that handsome gentleman who just nodded at you? I don't believe I have met him yet.”

 

[Davina Wellsley]

"How fortunate that your late husband has left you the abality to purchase a residence. As a Widow you will be able to own it - that is unless you have some male relative? If so then they will be eager to stake a claim for as All know a woman can not be left unattended and so a husband needs must be found."

She smiled a bit then continued "You have need of a Man to head your House, to ascertain and control the purse strings. If no such figure presents themselves after some time has passed then the "Gentlemen" about Court will soon come to sniff eager to stake their claim. That is how tis done 'Properly' yet I think that you are not so easily led. It will be amusing to see who makes the first foray. You have already come up aganist several of them the other night!"

"You are used to doing as you please and I can not speak as to that. I can however offer a suggestion or two if permitted. Perhaps you might think to ease slowly into Court to begin?"

"The Gentleman is Lord Chichester. An Earl. And he does not travel in that Circle Countess so if you wish his acquaintance it must be done elsewhere. We are known to the other and he has recently returned to Court. From Italy so I understand."

She gave nothing of her feelings away. It had become easy to hide them.

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Davina and Anne-Elisabeth

 

Arthur had not possessed a grand fortune, but he had not been impoverished either. Anne-Elisabeth doubted that she would be able to afford a mansion in the most prestigious neighborhood in London, but she should be able to find a pretty townhouse in one of the better areas. Even if she didn't have the money, her mother-in-law would probably borrow it just to make sure she didn't settle in the country with her. She and the old harridan had never seen eye-to-eye.

 

“No male relatives on either side, so I suppose I'm fortunate that there is nobody to take control of my life and tell me what I can and can't do." The Countess believed that she could take care of her own affairs and was dead set against marrying again. Why would she want to tie herself down when being a widow gave her so much freedom? Any gentleman who sought her hand in marriage would be sorely disappointed.

 

Mistress Wellsley seemed to be as ardent an observer as she was. Her assessment of Anne-Elisabeth's personality was spot on. “The Merry Gang?” she asked with a chuckle. “I think that they're even more against marriage than I am. But you're right. It will be entertaining to see who makes the first move. When it happens, I'll be sure to tell you who it is.”

 

Her brow furrowed at Davina's advice. It was true that she was not the kind of person to wait for opportunity to come knocking. She was more likely to bust down its door instead. “I am grateful for your guidance. What would you suggest I do differently? I wasn't aware I was moving too fast.”

 

If Lord Chichester was the gentleman the other woman had been speaking about, she concealed it well. Maybe they were only friends. “So he's the proper sort then? Perhaps he'll be the first gentleman to decide I need a man to look after me. Unless he's already married, of course.”

 

[Robert Saint-Leger]

As was required, Beverley had come with his lady wife and his father. His eyes had drifted somewhat closed during the sermon, having awoken early that morning. He had only half-listened to what was being said, only in making the appearance necessary to seem to adhere to the state faith.

 

Heading out in the queue of people, he was feeling the cold and all the standing about from the night earlier. Warmer weather could not come soon enough. Having no true interest in lingering after the services, and knowing roaring hearths were awaiting them at home, he tried to avoid all further talk of faith.

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles Approaching Catriona

Charles had been in the general company of the King for most of the morning.  The morning walk had been brisk but helped to keep the young officer awake.

Frances had been ill, so he had left her at home to recover, though the servants were on the watch for any escape.  During the service, Charles had let his eyes wander towards the Queen and her ladies.  There were both Davina and Susan to gaze upon covertly.  Either one would think he was looking at her.  That was helpful, but it was Davina that was his sweetheart, not Susan.  He had not seen Catherine since the ball.  No doubt she had been trying to woo back the Duke of York.  He had been too busy with Susan Herbert in their ghost chasing.  He had looked for Catherine at the service.

Following the end, he had escorted the royal family from the chapel but had returned.  He knew better than approach either Davina or Susan.  He was supposed to meet Susan later in the library anyway.  He had no idea that Davina was perturbed with him from his actions at the sleigh race.  He was mostly oblivious to such things.  had he known, he might have tried to repair things between them.  It was just as well because Davina's mind was on repairing relations with another anyway.

As he came back into the chapel he saw Catriona in conversation with George.  He had not seen Cat in some time and wanted to speak with her. That made him think of Fiona.  That minx had propositioned him at the ball and it had taken all of his self-control to resist.  She had threatened to come see him in his office and he hoped it had been an empty threat.  Perhaps he could dispel his guilt by speaking with Cat.  He slowly moved in her direction, allowing George to take his leave.

Stepping into view, he gave Cat a wide smile.  "Am I seeing a ghost?" he laughed, having become an expert on ghosts lately.

[Blackguard]

Devonshire was not present for the service.  It was said that he was ill.  His son, Lord Cavendish was present, along with his wife.

The other families were present too.  The Duke of Norfolk sat on one side of the chapel with his wife and his illegitimate son George.  On the other side had been Newcastle and the Cavendish clan.  The banns had been read for Lord Ogle and Elizabeth, the Percy heiress.  Congratulations were in order for young Lord Ogle, after his father had outmaneuvered others to gain his son the wealthiest heiress in the land.  The banns were not read for Arundel and Mary Mordaunt, for they were both Catholic and the Catholic church was the proper venue.

There was little conversation in the chapel for the various families because the space was confining.  Outdoors was a better place to spread out, though the cold wind drove many to their coaches quickly, but not before a chorus of well-wishes for the new year to everyone encountered. 

[Francis Kirke]

Francis licked his lips, his eyebrows lowering for a moment as she commented that the usual route was surely in person.

 

"Well, for family, one's patron, or for someone you serve closely, in person is the proper route, but it would be very tedious for every person to have to attend and receive each gift. That would be an endless task for one of His Grace's rank."

 

Francis could only imagine if each gift was attached to a person who then needed to be spoken to, served drinks, or even food....Buckingham would never leave the house! In fact, in that case, he was sure the Duke wouldn't leave his bedroom, for he would never want to receive an endless stream of simpering people. 

 

"Of course not," Francis replied, with a semi-amused snort. Her past was more amusing now that she was irrevocably married, but it was not entirely amusing. 

 

"That is a very inspired gift. I do not think I have seen anything like that in his possession, but he also has many houses, so I can only claim to have seen a fraction. He will be pleased either way. He loves all such things, and it is quite fitting."

[Davina Wellsley]

"Ah in that you are incorrect." She replied a bit more serious in tone. "Marriage is A Duty and even those that claim to follow The Libertine Set know that full well. Those men are expected to Marry and do so for all need an Heir to carry the Family line further. Tis the same for US Countess. You married and now have the benefits of Widowhood and if that is true and no male relative that comes into play with a sudden appearance have the added benefit of choice."

"As to who may make 'offers' - Dorset will come to scratch I'd wager as you have caught his attention and he is a Double Earl but I can not say intent with any certainty. Rochester is best avoided if rumour is true and you care for your Health. Mr. Merriweather hmmm ... Baron Dundarg, the tall Scots, well I have his acquaintance and he is rather charming. Roos and Sedley I do not care for. The latter has a daughter that I have no affection for. Will you? Then I shall watch and see what transpires. Tis like watching a Play is it not?"

"I am known for helping those in need yet I think me you are a not such a case. Instead I shall call it Counsel with motive only to play the other side of the coin. What you do in Private is your business yet you must also mix that with some Public Face as you are doing now. Christmas Court here is unusual and thus we are stuffed to the rooftops with Everyone hoping for the same one thing - to be SEEN by King or Queen. That is the reason to come here. To advance ones Family either by Position or Marriage. You arrive young and a Widow so some might look to see Who might take you up to act as Patron - What Wife will offer to see that you are pointed in the Right Direction and towards Charitable Works as well."

"I am lucky for I am a Maid of Honor to The Queen and thus already known. Even now some that watch might assume that you have sought me out to try to obtain a Household Position and that I can push for if I wish to. Or perhaps my brother Viscount Baintree has caught your interest and you want to meet him thru me and he is in need of a wife. Or some might think that you approached Dorset as a way to a further connection and you seek some Petition with another of a Higher Rank. The stories are endless and that is Court."

"I advise to devise some Tale that will satisfy those that seek to know. Your Widowhood is worn like a cloak here and so you will be 'expected' to mourn and show the proper restraint in Public. You have need of a Matron to provide introductions - have you no Family Connection at all? To any here at Court? That would be useful for if you can claim a Kinship, even a remote one, that will be of great help to you. For then you will be under the Head of that Houses' 'protection'. For example My Family is kin to the Duke of Norfolk yet my Brother is Head of our Family and so we follow his instruction.."

Tis a very complicated thing but a necessary one. Did your Parents not have Family that might be related to those here? If so then you can present yourself and as a Widow can not be forced into anything and once under that Name doors will open."

"So why have you come to London Countess?"

"Lord Chichester is not the sort. He has no Wife yet but he ...  he is another in need of one."

She gave a small shiver and drew the collar of her furs up close to her neck. 

She was enjoying this conversation but she had also spotted Langdon amongst the Congregation and with Chichester gone she wonders if he might be looking for her.

 

 

 

Edited September 5, 2018 by Davina Wellsley

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Francis and Sophia

 

Lord Kingston didn't seem at all shocked when she mentioned her sordid past. Instead, he sounded mildly amused. Sophia had expected a reprimand and a promise never to speak of such things again. Maybe now that she was no longer in his care, her transgressions in Venice had ceased to vex him. She was Esteban's concern now, and Juan's. Her husband would be appalled if he knew what she had done, but she believed that her royal lover would understand and attribute her recklessness to the folly of youth. Still, it was better that her secret remain concealed forever.

 

She grinned at Francis' assessment of the gift she had bought for the Duke. Wouldn't it be magnificent if he was so thrilled with it that it became a treasured possession and he was reminded of her whenever he listened to its music?  She would then remain in his thoughts and he might be more likely to agree to a meeting with her.  And she would make certain that she sang that aria the next time she performed.  She would begin practicing it today.

 

“What is the best way to get it to him, if I cannot give it to him in person? Can you do it for me?”

 

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Davina and Anne-Elisabeth

 

Mistress Wellsley seemed quite certain that even the members of th Merry Gang were sizing her up as a potential wife. Anne-Elisabeth supposed it could be true and they would try to ensnare her when they found out how she fared at court. Nobody knew her very well now. They didn't know if she would succeed or fail miserably. If she rose in esteem, she would be more sought after than if she remained forever in the background. The Countess was the kind of woman to stand out rather than blend in, but the image she presented was not always positive. Would her current companion one day be embarrassed to say she knew her? It was possible, she supposed.

 

“As Shakespeare said: 'All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances.' If gentlemen try to court me, they will be shown the exit shortly after they enter. Perhaps some day I will change my mind and long for a family, but at the moment, I am quite content to remain independent.”

 

She listened intently to Davina's words. It was true that she didn't need any help to survive at court, but she did appreciate her opinions and her insight into the way courtiers viewed newcomers. Speculation as to her motives was to be expected. People would wonder if there was hidden purpose in everything she did. Anne-Elisabeth didn't think her lack of family would hurt her chances of making connections. She'd done quite well so far and those she had met already would be able to introduce her to others, were they so inclined.

 

Was this pretty dark-haired lady trying to indirectly recommend her brother as a future husband? She did say he was in need of a wife. It would be interesting to see if she tried to introduce him to her. And while being a lady-in-waiting to the Queen would be an honor, in her case it would turn into a disaster if she decided not to hide her libertine ways.

 

“If anyone asks me about my family, I shall tell them the truth. They all passed away in a shipwreck while traveling from Barbados to England and I was the only survivor. My lord husband passed away over a year ago and the mourning period is There is no need to show grief anymore, though I will always miss him.. I am truly all alone in the world now and must make a new life for myself.”

 

Lady Cambray grinned when Davina asked why she had come to London. “It was boring in the country and I decided to see what court was all about. Life is much different in Barbados and I find London quite to my liking, even if it is much colder than I am accustomed to.

 

“And what about you, Mistress Wellsley? Are you married or betrothed? I imagine that the Queen's ladies are quite popular as marriage prospects. And how long have you been at court? You are quite knowledgeable about what goes on here and very gracious to give advice to a lady you hardly know.”

 

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina And Anne-Elizabeth

Davina did not reply about remarriages and children for in actuality she had no businees in asking.

"You might re-consider a Position at Court Countess. I should have said that if you did it would not be as I am for you are a Widow and thus classed with those Ladies married and so a place in The Presence Chamber is the desired spot. Your Rank allows for it. There you would have some 'Duties' which hardly ever vary and would be required to be there when some Official Visit or Entertainment is to be held and to look charming. In that you already do. The added advantage is that it would allow you to seek out those of your own choosing. It has Merit."

She could hardly come right out and say that the Countess would then be free to engage with the Libertine's but her meaning she hoped would be clear.

"I am sorry for that. It must be hard to bear. I lost two younger sister to illness and the hurt is still there. Well for your sake I hope no sudden relative appears claiming a kinship and thus a responsibility over you! I know most of my relatives but there are the smaller cadet branches that can oft times be used to state a Claim."

"I have not traveled beyond this Realm yet would wish to. That place is an island I know but how different it must be from London! I suppose there are the same Rules that govern those of our sex just as here? As to the coldness that will pass and then Spring will arrive bringing Sun and warmth and flowers will bloom and the hibernation we have all endured will come to an end."

"I am not married. I too am in need of a Husband - as All tell me and so I needs must choose. I am past the early age to marry and should have been long time married with children of my own yet here I am. I am the daughter of a Viscount so my Husband's Rank must be higher for I must advance my Family thru a fortutious alignment and many have been 'paraded' but not selected. Ah. Yes the Queen's Ladies are much sought after for many reasons!"

"I am no Scholar but five years nearly six have taught me much about Court. Yes that is a strange thing. I do not know you yet find myself compelled to offer mine own thoughts. Which you are free to discard by the way."

"Tis cold. Shall we walk a bit back and forth to unfreeze our limbs? Or perhaps you have need to be someother place? Have you been in the Palace beyond the Hall?"

She would understand if the Countess wanted to leave and Davina could not really blame her! She was acting most out of Character. 

 

[Catriona MacGregor]

Cat finished up her cough before turning around at the familiar voice of Charles, a smile on her lips as she slid her handkerchief away.  "Only if ghosts are prone to making such a racket," she responded, her cheeks slightly pink from both the coughing and the bit of embarrassment that came along with being caught in such an undignified action.  "I do assure you, tales of my demise from an English cold are greatly exaggerated."  As if something like a cold could take out a Scot.  "And how are you on this balmy English morning?," she teased.   Back home, the snow would likely be waist high with a blustering wind.  Then again, if she had been home, she might have been spared this stupid ague that refused to completely release her.

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Davina and Anne-Elisabeth

 

Anne-Elisabeth was intrigued by Davina's description of a position  that wouldn't require her to be overly pious but would allow her to meet the kind of people who would help her to make a name for herself at court. She had not been aware that  places were available for widows. It was something, perhaps to strive for. And maybe Mistress Wellsley could put in a good word for her.

 

She nodded solemnly to the other woman's condolences. “I, too, am sorry to hear of your own loss. I hear that one's grief fades with time, but that seems like a myth to me. It is difficult to find yourself alone when you have grown up surrounded by people. I remember as a child I longed for solitude, but I never wished for it like this. However, I must make the best of what I have and find new purpose and direction. Court seems like the best place to build a new life.”

 

If Arthur had any male relatives, she believed that his mother would have encouraged them to claim his title, properties, and wealth because of her dislike for her. As for her own family, someone had taken over her father's assets, probably a distant cousin who hoped his predecessor's only surviving daughter never showed up asking for money . As a woman, she could not inherit and was no threat to him. Nor did he have the right to claim what her husband had left to her.

 

“The rules are much the same in Barbados. Ladies are still beholden to their fathers or other male relations until they are married, and marriages are arranged just as they are here. The English community is quite small and everybody knows everybody else, which as you can imagine, breeds a lot of maliciousness and gossip.  There are parties and balls at various plantations but nothing as lavish as I have seen in London."

 

The Countess did look forward to warmer weather, but she knew from the year she had already spent in England that even the hottest day of summer would be colder than the average winter day in Barbados. And probably overcast and rainy.  How she missed the brightness of the sun!

 

“You should consider yourself lucky that you have had time to learn who you are and what you want before being wed. Now that I look back on my own situation, I think that I was too young to be married at seventeen. But my father did not share those sentiments.” Anne-Elisabeth often wondered if ladies were married so young so that they would not develop wills of their own and therefore be blindly obedient to their husbands. “Your brother is allowing you to choose for yourself? In that, too, you are very lucky. I barely knew my husband when we were wed.”

 

Mistress Wellsley seemed a bit surprised at herself for offering so much advice to a stranger. “What you have told me so far is very enlightening and I thank you for it. And yes, I should like to walk a bit in your company if you have no pressing matters to attend to.” She stood up and stretched, lifting her arms toward the sky. “I should like to know more about those positions in the presence chamber that you spoke of. How does one go about obtaining such a spot?”

 

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles and Cat

"Yes, I was thinking it was feeling rather balmy," Charles played along.  "I hardly need a coat."

"Still, it is good to see you about.  The first church service of the year is a good thing to attend.  It means you will have a good year this year," he assured her.  Like Duncan, Cat had seemed to plagued by a lingering illness.  It made him hope it was not contagious..

"How are your sisters?  I have seen Fiona about," he admitted.  "And what of your daughter?  I trust she is well?"

[Catriona MacGregor]

Charles and Cat

Cat grinned as Charles played along.  "I beg of you, milord, keep your coat on.  You'll cause a stampede," she teased.  There were many a lady who'd rush to admire him, even if she wasn't one of those ladies.  Likely having known Charles so long.  They were thoroughly ensconced in the friend zone with each other.

"Nessie is doing quite well, thank you for asking.  Luckily she didn't catch this stupid cold that decided to plague me.  As for my sisters, they seem to be fine.  Surprisingly enough, my brother took good care of everyone while I was abed."  She knew Charles wasn't a big fan of Douglas', but then again, Douglas wasn't a big fan of Charles, so it was fitting.  At least her brother got along with some of her other friends.  "And how are you and your family?"

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina and Anne-Elizabeth

"On the contrary you were already past the marriage age and at ten and seven should already have a child or even two. Your Father's view is held by All - We belong to Fathers until we marry then we belong to our Husbands. Tis how it has and always will be. What is ment by "Who I am?" and "What I want?" I am born the daughter of a Viscount and have amongst my Kin several Wealthy and Powerful Families. My Duty is to advance my Family Name first by Court Position then by Marriage.  What I want is the same as any other girl or young woman  - a Husband and Children . There are many daughters that are forced into contracts then into marriages so in that, yes, I was fortunate. My Father was of a mind to see me educated. So I learned what I would need to one day manaage my Husbands Estates and to run his House - that is common for all our sex if born into Privilege."

"I know exactly Who I am and What I Represent."

 She followed suit and rose as well walking to the space between two columns then turnned back to face the other her back resting aganist the railing.

"And how do you think you could have changed anything? My brother is not as easy-minded as you think. He fully intends to see me married and the time approaches when I know I shall have to make my choice known. If I do not then it will be decided for me. Even at my 'age' I belong to him for he inherited from our father so is now Head of our House. What other way is there?"

Her words were all said matter of fact as they were what she knew. She was curious as to just what kind of up bringing the Countess must had had on that Island!

She gave a small sigh. Enough had been said on this topic so she was glad to now shift to Court.

"Then let us walk and I shall try to be of further help  ...."

She would wait for a few moments and once they began to stroll she'd continue.

"In order to Learn one must Study. And that is my first suggestion for you."

"But where to begin?"

"The Queen's Household is controled by men - Lord Chamberlain, Steward, Comptroller - and a mirror image of the Kings in that it operates excatly the same way. The managing of her Women is overseen by The Mistress of The Robes. There are three 'Offices'  - Maids Of Honor of which I am one and we are all unmarried. Currently there are six of us and we roate Duties. We are simply "The Frame that surrounds The Queen".  Next Ladies of the Privy Chamber and we normally have six or seven are all married Ladies. They attend in this outer chamber and provide amusements and other such things as well as attend Court Functions. They too are on a rotation.Then finally The Ladies Of The Bedchamber. This is the most Senior position and there are only four that serve. All Duchesses. They see to the Queen's personal wants and needs. The first she sees upon waking and the last at night."

"Theses places are filled by the daughters, sisters, cousins, and wives of Ranking Peers all eager to gain notice from either King or Queen. Just how or why they are there is oft times complicated but the end result is all the same. To advance your Family."

She stopped and looked at the other with a small smile adding

"I am sure this is not what you were expecting. It is unlike that place you have come from. Here Politics is an every-day occurance. In order to advance one must gain knowledge. You wish to be considered for Privy Chamber then you must go thru Lady Mountjoy. You can not do it alone but must have a Sponsor. A Titled Married Lady preferably one already know to The Queen. It will not be easy. You will have to declare your Politics or Faction - Hawk or Dove? Do you follow King or some other? Even those Libertines are placed thusly. Some follow Buckingham. Some follow others."

"I do not wish to make this over-bearing so forgive me if I rambled on. Yet there is no easy way. You need to understand how The Game is played in order to advance. To Succeed."

Edited September 9, 2018 by Davina Wellsley

[Charles Whitehurst]

Cat and Charles

"We must maintain order then," Charles replied to the comment about stampedes with a smile.  Maintaining order was his job after all.

"I am glad all are well.," he replied.  "William is studying abroad.  Bradley is staying with me," then his voice dropped lower, "and is starting to admire young ladies more regularly," he laughed.  "My ward Frances is causing me all sorts of headaches, so I need to find a good governess for her.  She is only 12 but wants to be independent and live with … commoners.."  He was shaking his head in disbelief.  "I'll get her straightened out."

"what are your plans at the end of the 12 days?" he inquired.  "Back to Scotland?  I'm thinking about a return to Cornwall for the rest of the winter.

 

 

[Catriona MacGregor]

Cat and Charles

 

She had to grin as Charles confided that his youngest brother was showing interest in females.  Seemed to be a thoroughly Whitehurst trait.  His comment on his ward, however, caused her to laugh.   "Oh you poor man!"  A quick cough, covered by her handkerchief, muted the laughter vocally, but her expression spoke volumes.  "Do you honestly believe a mere governess can change the mind of a 12 year old female?  Trust me, dear friend, when I assure you it would take the ability to control minds to do anything of the sort."  She should know, having once been 12 herself and having 2 female siblings who had lived through the age and another getting frightenly close.  At least she had over a decade before Nessie hit that age.  "Armed guards would be put to better use."

 

Her nose wrinkled for a moment as she considered his question.  "Travel in Scotland can be tricky even when the weather is pleasant.  During the winter, it is practically impossible.  I hate to do it, but we may have to remain in England," she admitted.  Then she shrugged.  "Alyth might be possible, with its proximity to the Channel, but not Inverness."

[Charles Whitehurst]

"Funny you should say that," Charles replied with mixed emotion.  "I have confined her to her room and she complains bitterly about being a prisoner.  It is for her own good, but she will not recognize that for some years I think.  She is far too comfortable living the life of a street urchin when street urchins dream of living the life I provide her.  It is really quite maddening," he confessed.

As for travel to Scotland, it sounded as if her wariness was prudent.  Scottish winters were said to be quite daunting.  "I suppose you could stay in London until the spring thaws.  That might serve you and your family better." 

[Francis Kirke]

Francis raised a brow. She wanted him to give it to his uncle for her. It seemed strange to him for some reason.

 

"There is little reason to send it to me to give to him when we live in the same house. If you send it to him with a nice missive, it shall have the same impact. If you send it to me first, he shall wonder why you do so, for he will surely know. I will gauge his response to it for you if you wish, though," he commented. He had not forgotten what he had promised but he knew where Buckingham's efforts were focused at the moment. 

[Catriona MacGregor]

Cat and Charles

 

It wasn't very lady-like, but Cat's jaw dropped open for a moment before snapping shut.  "You locked her in her room?"  Dear Lord, it sounded like something her father would have done and her father had been one of the worst parents in the world, in her eyes.  "That's sure to show her," she said, her eyes rolling, her tone pure sarcasm.  "Charles, all you're doing is reinforcing the idea that she would be better off on the streets."  Sometimes, she worried about her friend and his ideas.  Thank Heaven he didn't have any children of his own.  Then, she opened her mouth again and said, "Would you like her to come and stay with me?  She'd at least be around girls of the upper class who are around her own age."

The idea of remaining in London wasn't all that appealing, but between her recent illness and Nessia's age, it was the most reasonable plan.  Her expression revealed how little she wanted to do that, but Cat was a realist.  "I suppose."

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles was coming around to think that he might need to place Frances with a friend that was married or a widow.  Monmouth wife was one.  He supposed that Cat was a widow and it might be a proper selection.  "I was thinking about taking her home to Cornwall and putting her under a strict governess.  I would not want to impose her on a friend.  Maybe she could visit you and your sisters," he supposed aloud.  "I need to think further on it," he confessed.

[Catriona MacGregor]

Cat and Charles

 

"Yes, perhaps a trip away from London would be best for her," Cat replied, placing her hand on Charles' arm and giving it a supportive squeeze.  "She'll be away from the temptation of the City," she added.  "People will only change if THEY want to.  You have to make her want to change."  Lord knew she never had been able to force anyone to change because she told them to change.  Especially not anyone she was related to.  "Patience will be the key."  There, enough motherly advice.  Which would have been laughable, seeing as Cat was younger than Charles, but she was an old soul, given to mother henning those within her friend circle.  And even those not in that circle.  Pretty much anyone who came into contact with Cat at all.

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Davina and Anne-Elisabeth

 

Anne-Elisabeth couldn't help but admire Davina's insistence that she knew exactly who she was and what she wanted out of life. She couldn't be more than a couple of years older than the Countess and yet she was so sure of herself. How would she feel when she had achieved her goals and was married with a few children? Would she feel that she was missing something important or would she be content to manage her household, involve herself in charity work, and enjoy court when it was in season? She also had a family to support her emotionally. Maybe that was enough for her.

 

The Countess was too adventurous and restless for that kind of bleak existence. She needed excitement and variety in her life. Maybe had Arthur lived, she would have spent the rest of her life bored and discontented. And while she did know ladies in Barbados who were married with children at seventeen, she still thought that she had been too young. Not every young noble lady was cut from the same mold.

 

Knowing when to let a subject go before it upset her companion, she nodded. “You are right, of course. There is no other way. Our fathers, brothers, and husbands know best.” Like hell they do, she added silently to herself. However, she knew that to cultivate a friendship with this lady, she must paint herself as sympathetic and, though she had not thought much of Davina during the ball, her opinion had changed. She could be useful in many ways and would make a fine companion. Anne-Elizabeth thrived on knowledge, and Mistress Wellsley had the kind of information she needed.

 

“Yet when you don't have that guidance, it can be difficult to know what you should do. I have no intention of marrying so soon after my lord husband's death. It would seem disrespectful. So I must pursue another purpose until I feel comfortable marrying again, which is difficult when I've never been on my own before.” In truth, Anne-Elisabeth was having no trouble at all. She could act on her whims and desires without anyone telling her what to do or punishing her for disobedience. The world was her oyster. She just had to figure out how to pry it open to get to the pearl inside.

 

However, she was young and had little life experience, and she had no idea if her current plan to rise at court would meet with success or failure. Throwing in with the libertines could be a wise decision or it could hurt her in the long run. She really did wish for the advice of her family sometimes. Lady Cambray envied Mistress Wellsley for having esteemed relatives to rely on.

 

The two women began to walk. Anne-Elisabeth's pace was slow due to the snow. She didn't want to slip again or the courtiers who had witnessed her fall at the sleigh race would believe she was overly clumsy. Though not interested in the numbers of ladies in the Queen's household, she was curious about the positions themselves and what they entailed. She didn't interrupt but listened attentively, nodding every now and then.

 

She didn't understand why a Countess would need another lady of status to sponsor her. Couldn't she sponsor herself?  She committed Lady Mountjoy's name to memory, as she was the woman she needed to impress. To Lady Cambray's knowledge, anyone could gather in the King's or Queen's privy chamber. It was a place to socialize, to be seen. There was  possibly another way to reach her objective, if she wanted to join the Queen's household.  She could spend a lot of time there, charm everybody with her graciousness and wit, and make herself indispensable. Then when she failed to show up for a few days, her loss would be felt and she would be offered an official position. It would be a gamble, and it might not work, but it could be worth a try.

 

Or she could use the one familial contact she had. Anne-Elisabeth knew very little about her mother-in-law, but she was of an age to have once served the former Queen. Even if she hadn't, she might have the right connections to put her daughter-in-law in a position of privilege and that could bring Cambray to the notice of the King and Queen. The King had not remembered her husband's family at all, and they could have fallen into obscurity by remaining so long in the country. Perhaps the old harpy would appreciate her efforts to advance the family name. If not, she could probably bribe her.

 

“In truth, I didn't know what to expect, and I thank you for explaining things to me. There's no court in Barbados, and not so much protocol surrounding everyday life. But you are right. I need to learn everything about my new environment if I'm going to succeed here. What, pray tell, does it mean to be a hawk or a dove? I have never heard those terms applied to courtiers before.”