The Chichester Wedding | Tuesday 20th, 3pm

[Caroline Despanay]

As the illustrious clergyman droned on and on, Caroline tried not to show her impatience. Unlike George, she was not devout. And if she would be able to answer honestly, she would declare she was a Roman Catholic, as her mother and father raised her. Until they landed in England anyways. But Caroline was fine with whatever denomination they were being married in long as it ended in the two being husband and wife.

Also as she declared her vows, she meant them and was truly determined to make this marriage work and do her proper wifely duties. If this marriage failed, she was not going to be the one to blame. She had to hope her husband was as sincere about this as she was but she did think he was decent man and a proper gentleman. If today could not be a day for optimism, when could there be one?

Vows exchanged she looked into his eyes and smiled. It was real now, she was beginning the first day of a whole new life.

 

[Defiance]

Bedfords

 

Lady Bedford gave a little gasp. "Oh she looks so beautiful in her dress. Lord Chichester does intimate with extravagance which speaks well for his regard for the lady."

 

Lord Bedford nodded. He was not quite as enamored of weddings as his lady wife. The service began and he said in a whisper, "The Archbishop is rather dry. I rather prefer Compton's demeanor, I think, though - of course - the Archbishop if more lofty." 

 

His elder son nodded and huffed his agreement. 

[Louis Killington]

Basildon Pew

Louis was busily watching everything Buckingham and Mountjoy were doing.  He did not know Dorothea, other than she was a friend of the Queen and of regal German bloodlines.  His eyes had scanned others, with nods of greeting.

It was not long before Ann-Elizabeth joined him.  She was a pleasant-looking lady, though her complexion did not seem as pale as most of the court ladies.  He gave her a friendly nod and made room for her to join him.  It was a bold thing for an unescorted lady to join a married man like Louis, and his paranoid mind began to imagine scenarios.  He was about to introduce himself when Beverley and Mary joined the pew.  "Greetings," Louis offered with a smile to the couple he knew well enough.  He moved further down the pew to make room for the couple.  "She should be arriving any day," Louis assured Mary.  "I heard there were squalls in the Channel that are delaying the ships."

Then, cognizant that introductions were needed, Louis stood briefly and stated to Anne, "I do not believe we have been introduced.  I am Louis Killington, Earl of Basildon and this Lord and Lady Beverley.  Lady Beverley is close kin to my lady wife."  It then fell to Ann to introduce herself.

The break was not long, for Caroline began her walk down the aisle with Nicci in her wake.  They both looked stunning, as one would expect.  He quickly took his seat and smiled at the procession as they passed.  The smile disappeared as the service began.  Church services were the punishment that God imposed upon mankind for Eve's folly in the Garden of Eden.  It was a burden survived with theatrical pleasure due to the opportunity to ogle the finery of the clothing and the flesh on display.  George seemed content.  That was well for him.

[Raconteur]

Canterbury

After each had responded The Archbishop then said

"Let us praye.

O ETERNAL God, creatour and preserver of all mankynd, gever of al spiritual grace, the auctour of everlastyng lyfe: Sende thy blessyng upon these thy servauntes, this man and this woman, whom we blesse in thy name, that as Isaac and Rebecca lived faithfully together; so these persons maye surely perfourme and kepe the vowe and covenaunt betwixt them made, whereof this ryng geven and receyved is a token and pledge: and maye ever remayne in perfecte love and peace together; and lyve accordynge unto thy lawes; throughe Jesus Christe oure Lorde. Amen."

Then shal the Priest joyne theyr ryght handes together, and saye,

"Those whom god hath ioyned together, let no man put asunder."

He then made to include the congregation adding that 

"FOR AS MUCHE as George and Caroline have consented together in holy wedlocke, and have witnessed the same beefore god and thys company, and thereto have geven and pledged their troth either to other, and have declared thesame by geving and receyving of a ryng, and by joyning of hands: I pronounce that they bee man and wyfe together. In the name of the father, of the sonne, and of the holy gost. Amen."

And next a Blessing

"GOD the father, god the sonne, god the holy gost blesse, preserve, and kepe you: the lorde mercyfully with his favoure loke upon you, and so fyll you with all spirituall benediccion and grace, that you maye so lyve together in this life, that in the world to come you may have lyfe everlastynge. Amen."   

He would then read the following

(Deus misereatur. Psalm lxvii)

"GOD be merciful unto us, and blesse us : and shew us the light of hys countenaunce, and be mercifull unto us.
    That thy waye may bee knowen upon the earth : thy saving health among al nacions. 
    Let the people prayse thee (O god yea, let al the people prayse thee. O let the nacions reioice and be glad : for thou shalte judge the flock righteously, and govern the nacions upon the earth.
    Let the people prayse thee, O God : lette al the people prayse thee.
    Then shal the earth bring furth her encrease : and God, even our god, shal geve us his blessing.
    God shal blesse us, and al the endes of the world shall feare hym.
    Glory be to the father, &c.
    As it was in thee, & "

He would then ask the bride and groom to kneel upon the two waiting pillows as he himself climbed the steps to stand before the Alter where he bowed then turned to face out saying

(the congregation is expected to stand and respond answer)

    "Lorde, have mercy upon us.
    Aunswere. Christ, have mercy upon us.
    Ministre. Lorde, have mercye upon us.
    
Our father which arte in heaven, &c.
And leade us not into temptacion.

    Aunswere. But delyver us from evyll. Amen.
    Minister. O Lorde save thy servaunt, and thy hand-mayde.
    Aunswere. Which put theyr trust in thee.
    Minister. O Lorde, sende them helpe from thy holy place.
    Aunswere. And evermore defende them.
    Minister. Be unto them a towre of strength.
    Aunswere. From the face of theyr enemye.
    Minister. O Lorde, heare our prayer.  Aunswere. And let our crye come unto thee."

After giving everyone time to sit he will then say

"OGod of Abraham, God of Isaac, God of Jacob, blesse these thy servaunts, and sowe the sede of eternal lyfe in theyr mindes, that whatsoever in thy holy worde they shall profytably learne, they may in dede fulfyl the same. Loke, O Lord, mercyfully upon them from heaven, and blesse them. And as thou diddest send thy blessing upon Abraham and Sara to theyr great comfort; so vouchsafe to send thy blessing upon these thy servaunts, that they obeying thy wyl, and alway being in safetie under thy proteccion, may abide in thy love unto theyr lives' ende, through Jesu Christ our Lorde. Amen."

"OMERCIFUL Lord and heavenly father, by whose gracious gift mankind is encreased: we beseche thee, assist with thy blessing these two persons, that they may both be fruiteful in procreacion of chyldren, and also lyve together so long in godly love and honestie, that they may see their children's children unto the third and fourth generacion, unto thy prayse and honour: through Jesus Christ our Lorde Amen.

O God, which by thy mighty power hast made all thinges of naught, which also after other thinges set in ordre didst appoynt that out of man (created after thyne owne ymage and similitude) womanne should take her beginning: and, knitting them together, didst teach that it should never be lawefull to put asunder those, whom thou by matrimonie hadst made one: O god, which hast consecrated the state of matrimonie to such an excellent misterie, that in it is signified and represented the spiritual manage and unitie betwixt Christ and his church: Loke mercyfully upon these thy servaunts, that both this man may love his wife, according to thy worde, (as Christ did love his spouse the church, who gave himself for it, loving and cherishing it even as his own flesh;) and also that this woman may be loving and amiable to her husband as Rachel, wise as Rebecca, faithful and obedient as Sara; and in all quietnes, sobriete, and peace, be a folower of holy and godly matrones: O Lorde, blesse them both, and graunt them to inheritie thy everlasting kingdome, through Jesus Christ our Lord"

" Amen."

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Sophia entering the Chapel and joining Toledo

 

Nicci saw Sophia first and beckoned her over, but Caroline just waved. There was no time for them to chat anyway. Her father was ready to walk her down the aisle. The young Countess fell in step beside the older lady and Nicci, reaching over to briefly squeeze the Frenchwoman’s hand in excitement for their mutual friend.

 

Belatedly, she realized that she looked as if she was part of the wedding party. The older lady was probably Caroline's grandmother, although they looked nothing alike. Sophia was tempted to stay with them. It seemed to her that having a pregnant bridesmaid would be considered good luck, for she represented fertility and a happy future. However, English customs were weird and rarely made sense to her. Maybe a heavily pregnant woman would be seen as a bad omen.

 

It was probably better to be safe than sorry. When the procession reached the pew where Esteban sat, she slid in beside him. In truth, she would rather watch her friend’s big moment than participate in it. She would be singing at the reception afterwards.

 

Sophia glanced over at her husband, wondering if he, like her, was remembering their own wedding, a private affair in Amsterdam attended only by her beloved Prince. Sophia had always dreamed of a lavish wedding, but being able to spend so much time with Juan more than made up for it. Now she was carrying his child (hopefully) in her belly.

 

The child in question was being relatively quiet, which she was thankful for. “They look so happy, don’t they?” she whispered to Esteban as Caroline and Lord Chichester spoke their vows. Their union, Sophia hoped, would be much happier than their own marriage of convenience. Love was a part of it, she supposed, as both she and Esteban loved Juan in their own way.

 

Edited July 27, 2023 by Sophia de la Cerda

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Basildon Pew

 

The handsome gentleman nodded to Anne-Elisabeth and scooted over to make room for her. She had half-expected him to tell her to get her own pew and was glad that he was gracious. All Lord Chichester and his bride needed was for one guest to slap another at their wedding, which would have been the result of such a rude remark.

 

Lord Beverley and a lady who must be his wife sat down on the other side of the gentleman. They already knew each other and exchanged greetings. Anne-Elisabeth was about to speak to Lord Beverley when the dark-haired gentleman stood up and turned to her, introducing himself and the Beverleys, informing her that Lady Beverley was related to his wife.

 

The Countess stood as well, and held up her sun-kissed hand to be kissed. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Lord Basildon. I’m Anne-Elisabeth Devereux, Countess of Cambray.”

 

She smiled at the Beverleys. “Lord Beverley and I are already acquainted, and I am delighted to meet you as well, Lady Beverley.”

 

There was little time for conversation. The ceremony soon began.  The bride was beautiful and Lord Chichester looked so happy.  Anne-Elisabeth had seen that same expression on her own late husband’s face when she had walked down the aisle. She smiled at the memory, and then pushed it away to the back of her mind.  The Archbishop droned on and on and she quickly became bored.   Fighting a yawn, she sat stoically in her place, eagerly awaiting the reception.

 

[Catriona MacGregor]

Cat had slipped in, not heading to any particular pew, dressed in a gown of forest green, a change from her normal blues.  The last wedding at Windsor that she had attended has been her own secretive one to Adam.  A small pang of sadness slipped through her, but it wasn't the ache she had felt shortly after Adam's passing.  Two years had passed and she was finally moving on.  Just look at what she admitted to the King yesterday...

 

She smiled as she watched George and his bride, Caroline, exchange vows.  But sweet merciful heavens, this ceremony was a bit longer than usual.  She gave a glance around.

[Charles Blount]

The Mountjoys et al

The situation did not permit in-depth conversations so he was content to silently acknowledge Buckingham’s flowery reply as such niceties were aimed at the women present. Kingston added to the conversation but, as was appropriate, left the main attention with his patron. One did not often outshine Buckingham. He did notice the exchange between Francis and Dorothea which, although entirely appropriate, indicated something other than a purely nominal relationship. Given the occasion he briefly wondered if Dorothea’s charms might be undercutting Francis’ reluctance to marry.

The service began in earnest and Chichester settled down. The Arch Bishop droned on as Arch Bishops were wont to do. Mountjoy had become so accustomed to long winded speeches that he was unfazed and perfectly content to sit by with a look of attention on his face. He was sure that he himself had inflicted much worse on some of his audiences.

When Canterbury came to the part that ‘the man may love his wife according to thy word’ and that ‘this woman may be loving and amiable to her husband’  he sought out Ursula’s hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

[Caroline Despanay]

The whole thing was far too wordy for Caroline and she did her best to endure it all without any visible sign of either boredom or irritation. But then came the pronunciation:

"FOR AS MUCHE as George and Caroline have consented together in holy wedlocke, and have witnessed the same beefore god and thys company, and thereto have geven and pledged their troth either to other, and have declared thesame by geving and receyving of a ryng, and by joyning of hands: I pronounce that they bee man and wyfe together. In the name of the father, of the sonne, and of the holy gost. Amen."

There!  It really was official now, right? They were husband and wife. This was the beginning of a whole new life for her and George too.

Well..............that is if the dear Archbishop ever got done with this! She glanced over to George and if he returned it, she flashed him a little grin.

[Raconteur]

Canterbury

Now shall come Communion which is between the bride and groom only.

(It is required that the newly wedded couple take Communion as being a 'Seal of Church Approval' as well as a testament to their Faith)

After this he now began his Sermon -

ALL ye whiche be maried, or whiche entende to take the holy estate of matrimonie upon you: heare what holye scripture doeth saye, as touching the duetie of husbandes towards theyr wyves, and wyves towarde theyr husbandes. Sainct Paule (in his Epistle to the Ephesians the fyfth Chapter) doeth geve this commaundemente to all maried men.

Ye husbandes, love your wyves, even as Christ loved the church, and hath geven himself for it, to sanctifie it, pourging it in the fountayne of water, throughe thy worde, that he might make it unto himself a glorious congregacion, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thinge; but that it should be holy and blameles. So men are bound to love theyr owns wyves as theyr owne bodies. He that loveth his owne wife, loveth himself. For never did any man hate his owne flesh, but nourissheth and cherissheth it, even as the Lord doth the congregacion; for we are membres of his body, of his fleshe, and of his bones.

For this cause shal a man leave father and mother, and shall be joyned unto his wyfe, and they two shalbe one fleshe. This mistery is great, but I speak of Christ and of the congregacion. Neverthelesse, let every one of you so love his owne wyfe, even as himselfe.

Likewise the same Sainct Paul (writing to the Colossians) speaketh thus to al men that be maried: Ye men love your wyves and be not bitter unto them. (Coloss. iii.)

Heare also what Sainct Peter the apostle of Christe, which was himself a maried man, sayeth unto all men that are maried. Ye husbandes, dwel with your wives according to knowledge: Geving honour unto the wyfe, as unto the weaker vessel, and as heyres together of the grace of lyfe, so that your prayers be not hyndered. (1 Pet. iii.)

Hetherto ye have hearde the duetie of the husbande towarde the wyfe."

He will give significant pause to allow all the words to sink in and be committed to memory before continuing.

[George Hardwick III]

George listened to the words spoken, and then when instructed, took Carolines hand.  It felt strange to do so, this pda in front of his peers, he felt rather conspicuous even though it was a natural enough part of the ceremony. Her hand was small and warm, though not in a meek way. One of the things he admired about Caroline was her bravery, and in taking her hand now he could still feel her strength... 

Prayers of blessings were then given them, George felt humbled by it, while he continued to hold Carolines hand (for the priest had not yet told him to let go!).   Indeed he continued holding her hand until the cushions were produced and they broke to kneel, with still further prayers. 

Would Caroline truly be like Rebecca, like Rachel and like Sarah? He could only hope so, for all that he knew of bible stories those were fine women indeed.  Though a part of him quietly wondered if she was a little more like Mary Magdalene, who had known ways of the broader road and then chose to put aside to walk the narrow.  He'd given this sort of thinking some thought, and come to belief that her sacrifice was all the greater for her knowledge.

Caroline's head turned towards him at the moment, and he looked to her in time to see a grin.  The gesture brightened his soberness, and he smiled back in return... what a dear she was.

But it was not over yet, and even Georges patience with it all begun to tire.   

It was as if the priest was finding new things to add in to the service, as he now begun upon a dissertation of the duties of a man to his wife...  George listened and concealed a sigh.  He was ready for this to be over now, although he also wanted to hear the list of the wife’s duties to her husband. 

[Hope]

The Mounjoys Pew

Dorothea knew she'd spoken too glowingly when the Duke Buckingham seized upon the word 'Enthuse'.  She had only wanted to convey to Francis what she thought to be a great success (her brother had been so grim about him previously), but suddenly it sounded like Brandenburg-Ansbach was foolishly enraptured.  "Oh well I mean to say..." 

But her correction was put to one side as the clergyman welcomed all and readied to commence, naturally the pious girl did not speak when the man of god was speaking!   Francis though, managed to get an additional thought in, and meeting his eyes silently she gave a nod of understanding.    However much Buckingham liked a tease, she knew Francis was in sincere, and with what she suspected was an invitation to also attend?

Well that was a big enough thought to absorb her as the ceremony commenced in earnest.  Should she ask her brother if she might join the group onboard the Kings yacht, or should she just suggest that she and some friends watch on from the river banks.  But what she wanted most was a chance to have a private word with Francis, while neither option was terribly compatible with that. 

 

The service was lengthy...

 

Midway though Ursula discovered her hand discovered by Charles and he gave a meaningful squeeze, so that she suddenly felt like crying, tears streamed.  Finding her lacy kerchief she dabbed at her eyes, while hoping that she was not the only one moved to high emotion in the event. 

 

[Raconteur]

Canterbury

He gave a slight clearing of his throat and so continued  .....

"Nowe lykewyse, ye wyves, heare and learne your duetie towardes youre husbandes, even as it is playnly set forth in holy scripture.

Sainct Paul (in the forenamed Epistle to the Ephesians) teacheth you thus: Ye women submitte yourselves unto your own husbandes as unto the lord: for the husbande is the wyve's head, even as Christe is the head of the Church. And he is also the saviour of the whole body. Therefore as the church, or congregacion, is subjecte unto Christe, so lykewyse let the wyves also bee in subjeccion unto theyr owne husbandes in all thinges. (Ephes. v.) And agayne he sayth: Let the wyfe reverence her husbande. And (in his Epistle to the Collossians) Sainct Paule geveth you this shorte lesson: Ye wyves, submit your selves unto your own husbandes, as it is convenient in the Lorde. (Coloss. Iii.)

Sainct Peter also doth instruct you very godly, thus saying:

Let wives be subject to theyr owne husbandes, so that yf any obey not the word, they may be wonne without the worde, by the conversacion [=behavior] of the wyves, whyle they behold your chaste conversacion, coupled with feare: whose apparel let it not be outward, with broyded heere [braided hair] and trimming about with gold, eyther in putting on of gorgeous apparel: but let the hyd [hid] man, which is in the heart, be without al corrupcion, so that the spirits be milde and quiet, which is a precious thing in the syght of God. For after this maner (in the olde tyme) dydde the holy women, whiche trusted in God apparel themselves, being subject to their owns husbandes: as Sara obeyed Abraham callinge him Lord, whose daughters ye are made, doynge well and beyng not dismayde with any feare. (1 Pet. iii.)"

Another pause and then he came down the steps to stand before the couple and gave them a final Blessing.

This would conclude the Ceremony part. There was still one thing that had to be done. Leaning in he quietly said to the groom

"If you and your lady wife will follow me we shall, with the presence also of your father Lady Chichester, remove to a room set aside and there shall the marriage contract be signed and witnessed."

There was no need for any announcement to be made to the Assembly of Guests for all married persons knew that this was a thing done and that would provide a signal that it was concluding.

Once this had been seen to they all would re-emerge and the couple would then proceed back down the aisle to the outside followed by the Archbishop and his attendants then the guests.

[Caroline Despanay]

George noticed her cheeky grin and seemed glad to see it. Caroline wondered just what were his thoughts now . She hoped they were ones of anticipation, perhaps even excitement and not sudden regrets. The archbishop now began to blather on about wifely duties to her husband. Yes, yes, she got it. However as he droned on, she was actually beginning to wonder what all he was on about? Goodness, this was simply endless and, yes, boring. But it was all they could do but meekly endure it.

Was that finally it? A last blessing? She dearly hoped so and then the churchman leaned in to tell George, her husband, they needed to go to a room to sign the marriage contract. At last. It was up to George to reply to the fellow, she merely nodded her assent .

[George Hardwick III]

There was a lot of talk of wifely submission, with some reverence of husband thrown in.  The words of the service definitely seemed different when they were about oneself stood there in the chapel... though of all people it was his sister Mirtel that George now thought of.  Had his argumentative and obstinate sister listened to these same vows and been in agreement.  George could not image her having been either of those things to Russel her husband.  Nor did George truly imagine that he'd have the fortune to find Caroline submissive and even reverential of him.  It was, he decided, a pipe dream. Or perhaps an optimistic wish from the Church for the newly minted husband. 

He turned and smiled at Caroline once more.  She was not much like his sister, for that he was grateful, and well, you never did know, he did not want for them to have arguments. 

And then miraculously the service came to an end, and George turned to look at the chap who must be Caroline's father, his new father in law and gave a smile and nod, "Sir." And offering his arm to Caroline they moved through to the anteroom for the signing, and George did so with a sense of confidence, in fact his pre wedding nerves were completely gone.  So that as they completed, and then Carolines father did his part, he quipped "The last time you shall sign for Caroline." (Who had been married once before)

There, it was quite done, lest the Archbishop had some other instruction for them, he was pleased to turn to Caroline and declare, "May I be the first to address you as my Lady Chichester!"  

[Nicolette Vauquelin]

Nicolette was required to look attentive and not yawn nor pull any faces during the length of the ceremony, for a she was standing virtually in front of everyone she was much upon show. To be honest she'd have preferred to have been a regular guest and sat next to her cousin, who was looking as fine as ever this morning. The ermine trimmed cape looked new, and suited his darkly handsome looks.  

She managed her role of being a pretty statue as well as she could manage, till finally the end of the service came, when she'd imagined she might be a witness for the signing. But the Archbishop invited only Carolines father.  Nicci pretended that she'd known this already, and smiled as they all moved off and left her standing (not at all awkwardly there). 

It was at that moment that she realised she had a rather unique opportunity that she really ought not let pass! 

Turning around with a grin to her audience, and with a raise of eyebrow and nod to her Duke Buckingham. 

Addressing the guests:

"Hasn't it been a fine ceremony," she begun, while she quickly thought to try come up with something to say that was worthy of her Mistress of Misrule title.  A game perhaps, but nothing to spoil her best friends wedding. Perhaps only to add some extra little frivolity.  "And such a wealth of silver tokens scattered, it is portentious isnt it.  But my friends, may I reveal a contest soon to begin; and an award that shall go to the person who gives our couple the most unique Toast at the party. I will hear none of the usual wishes for long lives or many babies, our fine company of clever persons shall not need to rely upon such cliches as that.  So put your thinking caps on my darlings, to conjure how you might best amaze us. How shall we know who has won? By dear Carolines reactions of course." 

But was that the door to the anteroom opening again?  Nicci was careful to reposition herself in her meek attentive pose again immediately.  A smile played on her lips, she was pleased with herself as a bridesmaid for soliciting creative well wishes for her dearest friend later, with any luck Caroline would laugh with delight at least with one of them.  

[Raconteur]

Canterbury

Having overseen the signatures required he then added his own.

The marriage contract between them was complete. He signaled for an aid to sand it then his own round wax seal - with its purple ribbon - would be affixed to the document. It was a heavy thing and meant to signify that this union had been approved by all sides concerned and that the Church also approved. It would be carefully rolled and tied with a ribbon. He told Lord Chichester that it would be delivered to him so there was no need to carry it about. He smiled as the groom addressed his newly made wife by her Title pleased that everything had gone without mishap and that his Sermon had been well received. This was no young couple green as grass so to speak so he would have no need to offer any counsel if asked. 

He could hear a woman's voice speaking with but a word or two reaching and wondered at it for nothing else had been required  .....

Well no matter. Time to send the couple back out to receive the Salutations of their guests and friends. Then whatever festivities had been planned could commence.

He hoped that there would be some fine drink offered considering the status of the groom.

[Blackguard]

Caroline's father was all too happy to escort his daughter to the altar again. Thefirst trip had been something of a disaster as he gave her in marriage without sufficient consideration of Caroline's happiness.  For the groom to die so suddenly was seen at the time as a calamity.  Now, in retrospect, it seemed an opportunity.  To his amazement, Caroline had gone to court without a friend or mentor.  Rather than return in tears, she made powerful friends and acquaintances.  Her father felt small in this assembly.  Having an earl for a son-in-law was a dream few men of his rank could ever imagine, and it was all Caroline's doing.  He had contributed nothing.  Thus, it was time to be more humble and forgiving in his previous outlook, and be grateful that his daughter had transformed a sow's ear into a silk purse.

After the ceremony ended, Chichester addressed him.  He felt awkward in replying to the man that was not that many years younger.  "Yes, and thank you."  The Earl deserved the thanks and gratitude of Caroline's father, and he intended to retreat as soon as convenient so that the couple did not feel obliged to include him in all things.

Lady Habersham was smiling at the couple as she approached to congratulate them.  She would try and engage Caroline's father in conversation later to learn more about Caroline's family.  As Nicolette spoke, Edith decided that games at weddings must be a French thing.

[Caroline Despanay]

"You may be the first, but certainly not the last. From here on in, all will know me as the wife of Lord Chichester and be mayhaps be jealous, well at least the ladies," Caroline replied to George. She wanted to kiss him too right then and there but had a feeling the Archbishop would not approve of such public display especially since they were still in church. And while she had often delighted in engaging in even far more questionable behavior than a simple kiss, she would no longer do so as it would embarrass her husband. So she'd wait for later, when they had more privacy or at the reception, when surely it would not be seen in bad taste.

Caroline exchanged a quick but certainly welcome hug with her father. All was forgiven by now, she whispered, "And do not be a stranger. You are always welcome in our home."

'Our', she said 'our', yes she liked saying that indeed.

Nicci was off talking to guests, Caroline did not catch enough of what was said not that she worried about. At the reception, they would sit by each other and she could chat up her best friend and reiterate her gratitude for Nicci being her maid of honor. Hopefully someday she would be in Nicci's bridal party?

Lady Halberstam then approached to congratulate the couple, Caroline smiled warmly and was gracious to the woman, thanking her for her attendance.

When she had a few precious seconds when it was just George and her standing there, Caroline then leaned in and revealed, "All this ceremony has aroused my appetite, I am indeed hungry. The reception dinner can not come soon enough for me."

Edited August 11, 2023 by Caroline Despanay

[George Hardwick III]

In the side room

George was grinning, he did not smile so large as a rule but those lesser used muscles were in full action now.  It was done. It had not been difficult at all, and no calamity up and ruined nor prevented it.  A level of elation he rarely felt course though him bodily, he had a desire to shout out a cheer. And, why not, nobody could possibly begrudge him that. And so he did!

"Whoop!"

So it was that as Nicci secretly addressed the crowd (while the Priest, the Father Caroline adn himself with in the side room signing stuff) might have heard the jubilant cry!

Little Caroline shimmered with a happiness also, and upon this rare and reckless whim he bend and gave her a boisterous kiss!

 

Outdoors now, outside the Chapel

Then back into the chapel main they walked, where Nicci was still waiting patiently (and apparently silent).  George was proud to march his new wife down the Isle with his company, and once outside he turned to announce. "Lady Chichester has arranged a fine party that I welcome you all to now attend." 

He'd pretty much abandoned hope of finding a wife, and now he finally had one, he planned to address her thusly all of the time!

 

 

 

Note: Nicci spoke to the guests while the Archbishop and coy's were away signing the documents in that room. Ie. Only the guests heard her.

 

[Caroline Despanay]

Was that George? Whoever let out that whoop? That was most.....bold of him. Caroline couldn't help but be amused though if it indeed was.

When she and her shiny new husband were back within reach again for a bit, she confessed to being quite hungry and looking forward to the reception feast. Her first meal with  George as her husband. And shock of shock, though she had been thinking it, it was George who suddenly leaned down and treated her with a very enthusiastic kiss on the lips! She responded with identical desire. Was George coming out of his shell now that he was married? She would see. It added a whole new level of anticipation to their first night in bed soon upcoming. Caroline had always been an energetic partner in such romps, she'd show him how fun lust could be!

"Thank you, my dearest," she grinned as they separated.

And then it was time to leave, George and her arm in arm down the aisle and out the door then George announced the upcoming banquet.

 

ooc: Yes, about Nicci, that's why I did not have Caroline hear anything she could understand so she remains in the dark of Nicci's plan.  🙂

Edited August 11, 2023 by Caroline Despanay

[Duke of Buckingham]

The Duke of Buckingham was nearly asleep by the time the service ended, and Francis had to deliver him a poke for him to open his eyes once more before anyone noticed. 

 

Feeling rather well after a half-nap, he smiled at Nicci's suggestion before rising. "In that spirit, I challenge you all to a verbal duel." He chuckled warmly.

 

He then turned to face Lord and Lady Mountjoy and their accompaniment before saying, "I would think you are all going to the festivities afterward? I cannot let a princess go without a lofty escort of her own, no matter how fine a figure Lord and Lady Mountjoy present."

 

As they disembarked their pews, he held out his arm to the girl gallantly, "May I claim the honour?" 

 

It was, after all, for him to judge Francis' tastes, even if the cub would not admit them or face them. The duke had made a mismatch for himself in his quest to gain back his lands after a fashion during the Republican experiment; he would not allow Francis to make a poor match. He would see how Dorothea would be on the arm of a duke before he would contemplate trying to wrangle her match for a future duke. Even if said nephew of his was nearly thirty. Age did not matter with ducal relatives; one did not have ability to rule one's affairs solely no matter the age in such a situation.

[Charles Blount]

Charles was not paying particular attention as the Churchman continued with his traditional and lofty oration. He could appreciate the expertise even if he was not particularly inspired by it. Thus in his complacency he was not immediately aware of Ursula’s plight and was tardy in reaching for his ‘duty’  handkerchief, the one he kept specifically to offer to any demoiselle in distress he might come across, thus obliging his wife to use he own. Disappointed at the lost opportunity he remained alert for any sniffles coming from Dorothea’s direction.

The service wound to its inevitable close and the new husband and wife appeared again both seeming happy. Strangely he thought he might have heard a ‘whoop’ but let it pass without comment as did not occasion the need of a handkerchief.

As they were exiting the pews Buckingham rather gallantly offered to escort Dorothea whom, he supposed, was technically in Mountjoy’s charge so the offer required some sort of return reply. “Why Sir, some men might be offended by being deprived of such lovely and convivial company as Lady Dorothea but I must admit that the Margravina fulfills all my desires so I cannot begrudge the loss if the Lady is so inclined.”     

[Caroline Despanay]

The official ceremony at the church now over, in Caroline's opinion it went on far too long thanks to the Archbishop, so now the guests retired to a planned reception banquet. George had spared no expense on not just decorations and plenty of food and drink but also the hiring of some top level cooks (also expensive). The long banquet tables were filled with flowers and dishes of every kind - from appertifs to main entrees. The servants poured copious amounts of varied wines for the guests.

At the main table, Caroline tried a little of everything, washing it all down with crystal glassfuls of porte. What nerves she had just prior to the ceremony and even during it were now completely gone. Eating, drinking, talking, laughing, all of these she was in her element.She had so many guests she hoped to talk to but sadly that seemed unlikely. One thing she would not consent to doing though was wandering off and leaving her husband's side. She was the dutiful wife now.

"Oh George, you simply must try these fried oysters, they are superb," she leaned in toward her husband, "I also like the roast mallard in orange sauce. Honestly there is just too much to choose from. I shall not have room for it all."

And to think the desserts had not yet even made it to the tables.

Edited August 24, 2023 by Caroline Despanay

[Francis Kirke]

Francis chuckled at Nicci's challenge. Of course, his uncle leapt at the opportunity to issue further, ever being a man who enjoyed wit and oratory.

 

The younger blond had been about to say something when Buckingham turned to Dorothea and offered to escort her since he was the highest placed gentleman in the pews and a princess could not go without her own accompaniment and arm. Francis blinked. It did not immediately make sense to him, but after a few long moments, he realized that the duke was doing so because he had realized that Francis had an attachment to the German princess. It had clearly piqued his ducal curiosity. 

 

Francis could not have made the same offer. Not with having given his word to Prince Rupert. However, if they were in each other's company by happenstance, he could surely speak to her with a respectful demeanor and protective attitude over her reputation and position. Thus he smiled, hoping she took the duke at his offer, because it would be horribly rude to demur.

[Hope]

Prinzessin Dorothea

If asked, Dorothea would claim that an English wedding was not so very different to those at home - for making a comparison was her 'reason' for wanting to attend this one. She was completely prepared for this question, upon  hunch that the Duke Buckingham was not finished with her yet!  She was not prepared for his offering to escort her to the festivities after though.

Blinking, she smiled to his any surprise, and then curtsied as Lord Mountjoy 'passed the reins' so to speak. She becoming part of the Dukes group rather than the Mounjoys. (However small those groups were!)  "Thank you for your consideration of the needs of my station." she replied with attempt of a joke.   

She was not the best at making jokes.  She'd meant it to be a poking of fun at her own station, but as soon a she said it, she wished she had not. 

Taking Buckingham’s arm, her eyes darted for a moment to Francis. An instinct told her that if she did not lead the conversation right now, the Duke would take delight in doing so and possibly difficultly.  So she launched her already prepared subject:  "Weddings in England are not to very different to those in my homeland."

Ack, it happened again! As soon as the words were out she wished she could retract them. Why on earth did she launch the topic of weddings as though she was a silly little girl with silly ideas about the most handsome man in the room.  The Duke would think her so stupid! 

Margavine Mountjoy

Lady Mountjoy meanwhile smiled to her husband, his seemingly effortless grace with words was reassuring, and it was a relief to not need to say anything at all. With a smile she took his arm and they were free to walk together to The Banquet.   

  

 

A banquet table had been set up outdoors in one of the Windsor gardens, a beautiful locale for the invited guests to enjoy - while also invited noble might wander into should they happen along. 

[Nicolette Vauquelin]

N&F

Nicollette was quick to spot one of her favourites was unattached at that moment, and slid into a place at Francis side to claim (unasked) his arm.   Possibly he caught the flash of her eyes upon the woman, no girl, that had caught Ducal interest. 

"You could probably have invited a plus one you know?" she teased Francis meanwhile, knowing that he'd never do such a thing. He was always making his point of not being interested in a serious relationship.  It was her belief in fact, that she and he was the most serious relationship that he'd had in recent years - she having even slept over with him any number of times while he'd been helping her ... ah, rehearsing.   But never mind, I shall not read anything into," she nudged his arm, "this."  

Meanwhile as they reached the table, Nicci made an effort to sit upon the other side of Buckingham - better yet if she blocked the German upstart. 

[George Hardwick III]

George and Caroline

The world was a bit of a blur to George at the moment, he hardly even noticed the opulent banquet tables laid out before them. His head was swimming of the momentous decision acted upon today.  Meanwhile Caroline seemed exceptionally chatter some!  She was in her element in party mode. While George, he was not such a social butterfly.  Frankly, he was already ready to leave. 

"I’ve not tried fried oysters." upon her suggestion he took a bite (glad they were not presented in the awful raw style). 

"I'll admit I’m hardly even hungry." he bent his head to tell her in a quieter voice.  "All the excitement has me gastronomically challenged, though I shall make quick work of this drink."  he smiled, then thought to add, "It's cherry brandy, my favourite."  In due time they would learn each others favourites, so why not start right now. 

“Well, was my favourite until I met you.”  This he added with intent to make her smile.

"Do you think your Father is alright with Lady Haversham?" George then asked with cock of eyebrow and glance to where Edith held the man captive.

  

[Duke of Buckingham]

Buckingham was not a man who thought he needed anyone's permission for anything, but he kept such a notion from showing on his face as Lord Mountjoy piped up that he ceded Dorothea to the duke's arm. With a smile, George Villiers merely nodded.

 

"How right you are," Buckingham said to Dorothea, playing along with what he thought must be a joke but with a response that would fit either way. "A lady of your importance need not share escort."

 

He caught her look toward Francis but said nothing of it. She was young. Clearly she held a fondness for his nephew. Any meddling uncle of his stature would find amusement and encouragement in that. 

 

"No?" Buckingham queried as she suddenly spoke of German weddings and English weddings. "I wonder, though, might it be different were it a princely wedding or even a ducal one?" He raised a delicate blond brow almost teasingly. He spared a glance as Nicci joined Francis.

 

As to his comment, Buckingham was married already, a fact well-known at court, so he could hardly be alluding to himself.

 

"The dear Archbishop almost made it a bit too...high Anglican...for my tastes," he added*. "A bit more lengthy than I've seen with most weddings at court." Whether Buckingham really cared about the details of the sermons and this type of Protestantism over that type was a rather moot point. "The finery, though...I will say Lord Chichester made an intimate affair ostentatiously costly." In that it was clear the earl advertised his plentiful coin. 

 

When they arrived, the tables were rather splendid. He gallantly seated the German lady on his own side, and whilst he was doing so, Nicci claimed his other side. However, there was no open seat on the other side of the French mademoiselle for Francis. 

 

Buckingham could not have planned that better if he had orchestrated it himself. Francis would need to sit on the other side of Dorothea.

 

"I am surrounded by pretty ladies," he said happily, as he sat. He took a moment to lean toward Nicci's ear and softly whispered, "I think this lady and our dear cub share an affection."

 

 

(OOC - *The practice of High Anglicanism made the English Protestant services it as close to Catholicism without it actually being Catholic; it was what got Charles I in a lot of trouble and paved the way for the Puritan sentiment.

[Francis Kirke]

Francis was hardly startled by the arrival of Nicolette as she was a frequent companion of both he and the duke. She easily laid claim to his arm, and Buckingham and Dorothea proceeded them.

 

"His Grace is my plus one," Francis joked. "He decided that if I was invite, he must also be invited. Ducal privilege."

 

He could see the look in Nicci's eye over Dorothea joining the duke, so he leaned in and said quietly, "It is a thing of rank. If anyone is to escort a princess, it would be His Grace." Buckingham was vain and always flaunting of his status as first non-royal peer of the realm.

 

Francis could hardly say what he thought was going on...which was that Buckingham had sniffed out some of what was going on in the undercurrent...the one between Francis and Dorothea that could not be acknowledged or acted upon in his current situation. Or perhaps any situation.

 

Then they arrived at the reception and Nicci swept to Buckingham's other side, which would have been a grand arrangement but that there was not an open place on her other side. Francis blinked. He was unsure of what to do in such a situation for a moment. Then the only course of action open to him seemed to be to sit himself on Dorothea's other side. 

 

Which he did with a soft smile and a realization that he was not entirely sure of what to say.