Royal Gift or Grift?

[Blackguard]

The Rooms of Baptist May

The Keeper of the Privy Purse was a keeper of many things, including royal secrets.  He was a man the King trusted to handle delicate matters and raise funds for the privy purse that would support the king's merry ways.  There were many past, present and future mistresses that needed royal support.  There were quiet bribes to collect and royal largesse to fund.  May had proven himself invaluable in that regard.

In recent days, more guests called upon him.  Word was leaking that the King intended to name loyal courtiers to open and new offices, as well as upgrade titles.  These times were typically limited to the King's birthday in May, but the arrival and baptism of a Prince of Wales was cause for celebration across the land and royal gifts coming and going.

"Lord Oxford, what an honor.  Can I offer you some mulled wine?"  May kept mulled wine for business.  The harder fare was for later.

"No thank you May," the old Earl replied.  He took the seat he was offered beside the glowing fireplace in May's anteroom.

"How can I be of assistance?" May asked with feigned ignorance.  People only visited him because they wanted something from the King.

"My aide, John Burgoyne, you know him?"  May nodded.  He had a remarkable memory for courtiers, including those he had yet to meet.  "I would like to see him find a good match.  It is time he starts a family."

"Surely," May replied happily.  "A good husband and father surely."  He was eternally upbeat and ready with praise.  It facilitated business.

"The Prince of Wales needs a new household," Oxford mentioned matter of factly.  "Burgoyne would be a good Master of Horse or secretary.  He is very organized as an aide, more than any I have had in the past.  He is extremely loyal to His Majesty.  Ideally, it would be appropriate to raise him from baronet to baron, so that he might serve our good King better, and find a suitable wife.  I know you would be shocked to learn that court matrons want some title for their daughters, and not just a baronet."  He was being sarcastic and was met with Bab's smile and nod.  "A man's character seems to be meaningless these days.  John's character is such that were he raised to baron, he would promise to vote as a true royalist in Parliament."

"I'm sure he would," May played along.  "How is it you think I might assist?  These are delicate matters and it is near impossible to raise a man into the peerage."

"Then maybe he could be raised in the Scottish or Irish peerage first," Oxford suggested.  Scottish barons were not even lords.  Oxford was a veteran of many wars, and palace politics.  "I came to see you May because I heard that His Majesty is looking to fund his charitable enterprises in the realm.  As an earl and a man most loyal, supporting the Crown's charities financially would be a worthy cause.  My problem is that I am not certain of the financial support I should donate.  Too much or too little might be seen as unworthy for a benevolent King.  As a king is charitable to his gentlemen and lords, so too should they reciprocate."

May leaned back in his chair pleased to find someone not so crass as to offer an outright bribe.  "I understand completely milord Oxford.  The King intends a grand charitable endeavor this year for the realm and he will need all of the financial support that can be mustered from those loyal such as yourself.  Let me consult his Majesty on the extent of his plans this season.  The Christening is near at hand."

"Indeed it is," Oxford agreed.  "I should have come sooner."

"Better late than never," May replied.  "One concern ... a mere rumor on the winds.  I am sure that it is untrue about Burgoyne.  I heard that he had spread unkind words about Lord Kingston.  Not that unkind words are uncommon here.  I know that you and Lord Buckingham have exchanged unkind words in the past, which is fine; but, Lord Kingston has become close to his Majesty.  He is one of his Gentlemen now and he thinks kindly of him.  His Majesty may hesitate to reward Burgoyne if this is true," May expressed quietly.

"I am sure that is untrue," Oxford replied with practiced ease. "I shall speak to him and make sure he utters no unkind word about Lord Kingston if that would please His Majesty.  I hope, May, that my enmity towards Buckingham will not color the King's favor towards my aide.  In fact, it would be wise to counterbalance just a farthing of royal favor towards the Duke who acts as if his royal favor is infinite.  The rest of the court looks on hopefully that such is not the case."

"I need not tell you, m'lord, that His Grace and His Majesty act like brothers, though at times quarrelsome brothers.  Lords offend Buckingham at their peril.  You are an exception, and to be respected for your bravery in doing so."

"I hope you are not telling me that a good man will be denied his due over something so minor to a King of the Three Kingdoms.  He should be glad that someone tries to check his unbridled vanity."

"Maybe so milord Oxford.  It is not for me to know.  I will inform His Majesty of your desire to assist His charitable enterprises and put forward your petition."

"I have not asked for anything of the King for years ... unlike others," Oxford reminded the Privy Purse.  "Indeed," came the reply.

"I thank you for your time May," Oxford stated as he rose to his feet.  He was not feeling very charitable at the moment.  "The proof shall be in the pudding."

May rose as well, confident that messages had been delivered.  "Thank you for your visit."

[John Palliser]

Thursday, late Morning

He had asked around quietly about Baptist May and about him in general.

Hearing that the King might well hand out awards or even placements due to the birth of the Prince he knew he had to act.

And so it was that he made his decision.

Dress somberly yet well tailored in black and burgundy he had taken himself to the place occupied by that said Gentleman.

Was he nervous? Naturally but things had not improved back in his State since he was last here in the Spring and tempers there still were high.

Someone had to try to get things at least heard and then hopefully acted upon.

He had a leather bound portfolio tucked under one arm his Christian converted Indian servant accompanied and carried a wooden chest.

He heard  ......

Baron Silverbridge has come ...

Then the rest was lost to him.

[Blackguard]

Another person unknown to John exited the rooms allocated to the Keeper of the Privy Purse.  It was then his chance to enter.  A clerk escorted him into the company of Baptist May, who was relaxed in a padded chair next to a cozy fire.

"Baron, please come take a seat.  Mulled wine?"  He was offered the padded chair opposite.  "How may I be of assistance?" he asked, as if ignorant of the purpose of all petitioners.

[John Palliser]

John entered as bid following behind to enter the room. He gaze took in the immediate area and then moved to the man seated before the fire who then offered John the opposite chair.

He declined the offer of wine and then sat his mind thinking that from what he had learned about May it would be impossible that he did not have a clue, at least in some small way, why he was here to see him.

"Thank you for this opportunity. I shall come direct to the reasons if you do not mind?"

[Blackguard]

"Yes, yes," May agreed amiably.  "Directness can be a tonic at times.  But, perhaps begin by telling me more about yourself.  I know you come from the colonies.  It helps to know a visitor well," he encouraged.  He knew that John would propose something, but he thought a bit of background information could guide the response he might give to the man.

[John Palliser]

"I will admit straightaway that I am out of my element Mr. May. I came by way of Virginia to bring my tobacco crops to London to sell. Last Spring I arrive and was successful. I was also on a secondary mission you might say."

"Might you have time to hear some details - it shall all make sense and I hope offer some clarity as to my being here today."

[Blackguard]

The Baron seemed nervous in his presence, so May gave him a reassuring smile..  "Your plan is to sell product and return?"  If so, then there was little he could request that would affect court.

"Yes, provide further details.  Take the time you need."  He poured himself mulled wine and sat back.  How long would the man spin his tale?  He took a sip and readied himself.

[John Palliser]

John gave a small smile and then continued on

"My tobacco crops are of a secondary nature although they provide all the profits that allow me to purchase supplies as well as indentured servants to work my fields."

"My main interest last Spring was to visit the Lords of Trade in Scotland Yard which I did and thereby offer for admittance a petition signed by twenty four other Plantation owners in near by states as well as my own signature."

"Its main point was to ask for an easement of the Second Navigation Act of 1060."

"You may or not understand that tobacco can only be shipped to England on English built and crewed ships. It cannot be shipped to any other part of Europe save for the Islands in the Caribe."

"This we feel, is an unfairness and so hoped that the Lords of Trade would find it acceptable for those Colonies to be able to build and crew our own ships. It is not an unreasonable request by any means nor should it be seen as an insult. England has the monopoly - all know it and those that need to send goods across the Seas have no choice but to wait for the ships to arrive and be outfitted and made sea ready and then loaded with our crops."

"Tobacco is a time sensitive crop. I must know the way to pack and to know just the right amounts of moisture to make that voyage. Too much and the leaves will mold, too little and the leave dry out. Having to wait on a ship means that the leaves are left hanging in barns and susceptible to mold there and that in turn means a loss for the planters. Many resort to 'other means' to secure transport and that is a thing that left unchecked will soon turn into a bigger problem."

"If tobacco profits continue to be lost then it will directly affect the Crowns profits not just the Planters."

Here he paused and took open the satchel and withdrew a document that held a ribbon with a Seal attached with wax on the bottom right corner.

"When I visited the Lords of Trade I presented the other copy of this document with a Seal intact. I was given a receipt but was not asked to speak to any member of the Board."

"Nor was I informed of when the next meeting might be held or to whom the document might be delivered to."

"This document was for insurance purpose for that first one could well be ashes now or lost upon some shelf   ...."

He handed the document across to May to examine.

John for all his dedication knew that the man seated across from him had probably no idea of what he spoke of. But that would not stop him.

"The second item was in relation to Virginia alone."

"Last year the Treaty of 1677 was signed by The King and ten or eleven of the Native American Tribes. It was supposed to end the conflicts between the settlers and the Tribes but both sides do not follow it as a matter of course. The Treaty allowed them to keep their territories and to hunt and fish but they were all seen as 'tributaries' of the english Crown and so those rights were provided - as long as they paid taxes and remained obedient. The new boundary lines are not held to by either side and skirmishes happen often but are now on the increase. Last month there were four families that were attacked and several dead and two of the children were taken captive."

"My father was killed in a raid and I bear witness to it as well. I was lucky. I lived. This scar serves as my reminder of how little we are protected."

"I am asking the Lords to review this as well and to send militia to further support the Planters and to uphold the Treaty. Is the loss of English lives not an import item for discussions?"

"I was turned away from Lords with the 'advice' to allow the Governor of Virginia to govern. Told that 'our regular army' was best used for fighting incursions of the French, Dutch, or Spanish. And if the savages overwhelm the militia already sent and the Governor sent for soldiers then the Lords of Trade might take things seriously."

"Therein lies the problem - our Governor, Sir Thomas Culpeper, currently 'governs' from the Isle of Wright where all of his responsibilities lie."

"He sends by writ orders or commands or suggestions that are so useless they are laughable. How can he possibly understand the conditions there by simple words on a report?"

"These take months to arrive and by then the problems have either self-resolved or worsened."

"Just how can Colonial Policies be better directed from London than Virginia?

"My purpose in coming here is to ask that His Majesty consider appointing a 'Representative' to the Lords of Trade that is actually HERE."

"A person that knows first hand about what goes on in The Colonies and how too, it is hoped, solve the issues."

"And that person is me."

"And I have been told that you Master May are the very man that might well be able to make that happen."

"I am a humble man and no Courtier. Inheritance has made me one now. Nor do I have coin enough to line the pockets of those that sit on the Lords of Trade."

"My request is no outlandish thing. It is, I believe, a reasonable one and yet I am Ambitious enough to want to see Justice when it is needed and to advance the causes felt in the Colonies by standing up for them."

"And to Protect what is, after all, the interests of The King."

It was a long tale but John spoke in his quiet yet commanding tone and it would be clear to May that he was a passionate man with strong beliefs.

Also it was to be hoped was that fact that John did not seek for Profit from his asked for Appointment.

Edited May 15 by John Palliser

[Blackguard]

As John labeled himself as being humble, May fought a smile. No one at court that visited the Privy Purse was humble.  He heard the man out before reacting.

"I am no solicitor, so I cannot profess to be an expert in the Navigation Act, but is not a ship built in the English colonies not an English ship?  Why must you wait for one from Bristol or Southampton?"  It was a genuine question.

"There is a Lord of Trade, that was most recently the office of the Earl of Shaftesbury, but it has been dormant.  I am not aware that there are multiple Lords of Trade.  There is, however, a Board of Trade and Plantations.  It was established three years ago.  Is this the Board in which you seek membership?   The Board is composed of English gentlemen.  I do not know if colonists are on the Board or not.  You certainly make the case to add a colonist, but Boards tend to be collegial.  They may be reluctant to add a member that is all about change," he cautioned.

[John Palliser]

"You are correct in saying that the ships - no matter where built - are indeed English. But the problem is that the 'Colonies' are seen as a money-making endeavor and a step-child of Mother London."

"Thus only said Mother London may build and outfit ships. Do not mistake me when I say that there are those that of course have resorted to building their own or at least trying to build the needed capital."

"This has created another problem as you can imagine. The making use of other ships already built outside the boundaries of England are a source turned to with more regularity."

"If this Act were redefined in such a manner that will allow for us to built equip and hire our own crews it would, so many believe, could well help to ease the imbalance and perhaps even increase Profits."

As for the Lords of Trade -

"You are correct in your thinking. It is exactly to the Lords of Trade and Plantations in which I seek to place myself."

"This council was set up to provide consistent advice to the Privy Council regarding the management of the Colonies. Those that sit on it are active, reliable, and trained councillors. I have seen the list of names - Lauderdale, Ormond, Worcester, Anglesey Arlington - of which he is Lord Chamberlain of the Privy Council - He is a colonial proprietor and a patentee of several commercial companies. The business of the Colonies passes thru the hands of two secretaries of which Sir Joseph Williamson is one the other being Sir Henry Coventry. Williamson is known to be well-versed in Colonial information and he corresponds with some regularity with the Governors in which, thru letter private and public, he offers his patronage and soliciting information for official needs. It is most unfortunate that the close and continue application to the administrative functions of the office, and the information they acquired has given the two secretaries a rather superior place on the plantation committee."

"The current belief in the colonies is that ministers at home are either too busy with other matters to give heed to the urgent needs of distant communities or else were little disposed to be bothered with the tedious reports on colonial conditions. That their ignorance of the unrelated life of the colonies rendered then unfit to pass judgement on colonial affairs."

"It is this very situation that has led those in the colonies to appoint their own agents to act as a vehicle of sound information and advice on matters involving the interests and privileges of each colony."

"Members of the Plantation committee are not only occupied with the many problems and aspects of colonies and commerce, but as privy councilors are bound up in immediate local and foreign issues, and as Englishmen are largely ignorant of colonial existence."

"It is to that need that I wish to apply myself. As an Agent to represent Virginia's wants and needs here in England."

"As for your thoughts about being too 'collegial' perhaps the time has come to do just that. Shake things up."

"Colonial protection is poor enough but the commerce on the high seas is suffering disastrously. Large and constant are the losses of ships and cargos by capture and destruction because of the inadequacy of the navy and the incompetence of administration."

"We risk or vessels and goods without protection rather than wait upon deficient and delayed convoys. All those Merchants that have a high stake interest in our cargos have now doubled the cost and the price to buy and sell is like the Tide - it comes and goes."

"Our Lieutenant-governor has written to Governor Culpepper letter after letter detailing problems and concerns. Nothing has been concluded for near on a year and a half. Or no reply comes at all."

He was then silent on a soft sigh.

"I must beg your forgiveness on my long-winded speech. It was not my intent to do so but passion overwhelms on this topic ....... "

[Blackguard]

May heard the Baron out as it was his nature to listen more than speak.  In that regard he gained an informational advantage.

"I am no politician and I have no voice in Parliament,so why come to me?" he asked, flushing out the young man's purpose.  Would he say it aloud?

"Perhaps your words would better resonate with lords like Buckingham, who holds great sway in Lords, or someone like Cumberland who heads the Royal Navy and the Hudson Bay Company.  They have the sway to move legislation.  His Majesty is likely to look to them for advice," he explained.  "There are other lords like Kingston and Basildon with interest in trade and the colonies," he added.

"Passion can be a good thing, especially in a bed chamber," the Privy Purse jested.  "I have heard generals tell me that an Englishman must never allow passion to supersede reason on the battlefield."  That was the military thinking of the time.  "Also, though I am no politician, it is a truism that it is easier to open a door part way than force it open it completely.  Moderation is more probable than radical solutions; but then, I am no politician."

  

[John Palliser]

He had been fiddling with a corner of his hat his head a bit downward as the other man spoke and when he was done raised it to say with a steady gaze of the other

"I have seen half a Season here and returned back to Virginia in frustration at the lack of considerations at the Lords of Trade in regards to my submitted petition."

"Who is to say if that clerk even did as he told me. How can I prove it one way or another?"

"And so I return with a renewed energy. I have asked around and funny how all those names you have provided were never said to me. Why is that I wonder?"

"This birthing of a Prince is indeed God's Blessing and we all rejoice. Court conversations are all abuzz with the news that Titles and Offices and who knows what else may well be handed out as a result."

"I came to You because I wanted to put my face and name before you. To see if you might provide me an avenue in which to walk."

"And that you have done - either by intent or coincidence - and for that I thank you."

"I want to achieve on my own Merits and Ambitions. Unrealistic? Perhaps."

"I of course know already of Cumberland but the Duke and the other Gentlemen I did not. "

"You want to know what I am asking for  ......"

Here he gave a small smile

"A chance to speak my mind. To address the cares and concerns and to protect my fellow Virginian's - indeed all of the Colonies - from neglect and bad management."

"A chance to speak with them all or singular."

"Will you help me?"

"Allow me to get a foot in the door. After that it is all up to me to pass or fail."

He was not a man accustomed to begging either by word or hand and so he held his Pride at bay. 

But this felt like just that.

He wanted to just say 

'a letter of introduction which I may then use to seek out those that might listen'  

[Blackguard]

The Baron was not offering a bribe for an office it seemed.  Had he just come for advise? How curious.

"You are not seeking the King's aid at this time?" May sought to clarify.  "He is especially busy this weekend, as you might imagine.  I, on the other hand, will do you the favor of introducing you.  All but Basildon I expect will be racing yachts Friday.  All will be at the Christening Sunday.  I shall endeavor to introduce you to each if I am able, though I would suggest that passion be replaced by reason in your ensuing arguments, or else it will go badly for you, and for me," he warned.  "I will take a chance that your ideas will benefit the colonies and, thereby, the Crown."  He paused to see if the introductions were the extent of John's request.  

[John Palliser]

"The King's aid  ...."

John's words faltered off. 

"You thought I was here for THAT? Good God Above."

That May's question had been a complete shock was clearly to be seen.

"Indeed Sir I am not. Never would I presume let alone to think such a thing."

But then a trace of humor entered his eyes.

"It would seem Mister May that I have been fed a potion not fully investigated."

"The penny has dropped why so many seemed eager to push me to your door - and now it seems I must watch every step I take here."

He took a breath on a small shake of his head.

"If you will take me in hand then I shall follow your advice. I am, I suppose, somewhat in your debt now."

"I shall do all I can to see that it is paid fully and You will have no cause to see any worries."

"I do not expect things to go very smoothly and rocky shores lie ahead but I am resolute in my reasonings."

[Blackguard]

This was a turn of events.  John was not offering a bribe for the position; rather, he wanted May's help.  It was not unlike the request of Anne-Elizabeth to meet the King.

"I can help you," the smallish man agreed.  "I shall make the introductions you seek after the christening ceremony.   All will be there and you can have your pick.  I know them all.  Think upon who you might like to meet first.  Cumberland might be a good start.  If you know his aide Lord Beverley, he could make an introduction as well.  Court is like a maze.  You must merely find the right path, and a bit of help can go a long way."

[John Palliser]

A quiet release of a breath he had not known he was holding as May answered back. He had not been rebuffed and sent away as he thought he would have been. 

It seemed that he had been right to seek out this Gentleman after all.

"Thank You.  In all Truth Mister May I did not think there would be such an answer from you. And I am grateful indeed.

"Yes. Cumberland is the right choice - he already has holdings in the Colonies and the Navy is his interest as well."

"I have seen Lord Beverley but not had the pleasure of his acquaintance. I might know someone that can provide that but I shall have to see."

"Yes a maze indeed - and one I shall learn to navigate well enough with the help as you say."

He knew his time was up and so he would make ready to leave but then paused to ask

"I know I said I do not have money to bribe and yet I could  not come empty handed  .... Will you allow me?"

He stood and indicated the closed door.

"I have a servant there that has what I speak of. I have no personal knowledge of you Mister May and so can only offer what I excel at."

If May permitted he would go to the door and crack it enough to ask for his servant to enter.

[Blackguard]

The man had come expecting to be rebuffed.  That was entertaining to May.  He always collected things, if not money, then favors and debts of other kinds.  One never knew when they would be useful to the Crown.

"We will start with Cumberland then," the Privy Purse agreed.  John could achieve the same through Beverley, but it was a small thing for May to make an introduction.  Of course, Cumberland might be more suspicious of May's introduction than that of his aide, but he would be courteous.

It was then that John seemed to want to present some sort of gift.  "Very well," he signaled the colonial and awaited what was behind the door.

[John Palliser]

After receiving the okay John quietly signaled to his servant and the box was handed thru to him.

"Tobacco cultivation Mister May is an art form - and buyers understand that behind every crop of good tobacco is a meticulous planter with exceptional skills."

"And I am one such planter."

"My branded tobacco is made on my plantation where I live and therefore I see to the whole management of it myself. I can with authority recommend it to be exceedingly good."

"The quality of a man's tobacco often serves as the measure of the man. I am a proficient planter and, with some satisfaction, say am held in high regard by my Peers."

"Tobacco is a finicky crop which requires a large work force, a good overseer with good judgement, lots of land and, moist importantly of all, plain good Luck."

"I have been fortunate up till now but next year or the year after I might well fail if crops dry or weather interferes. Or even worse horn worms attack my plants and it will all be eaten away within a week."

"One third of my year is consumed with the time of planting the seeds until those become leaves and pressed into hogshead barrels and sent to London." 

He then set the box on his empty chair seat and opened it.

"I told you all of this because I want you to understand a bit of how things work and so when you see the finished product will appreciate the hard work behind it."

"I do not know your particulars Mister May and even if you indulge. I hope that you do."

Inside the box May would see three metal tins each filled with the dried tobacco.

Two clay pipes each six inches tip to bowl were nested on some velvet fabric. Each bowl having been carved with a scrolling patter of entwined vines that ran up the holder.

"The tin engraved with the red border is filled with dried Oriental tobacco. It is a unique but fragrant aroma."

"The Blue is filled with Burley dried tobacco. It will be a slow burn and has a sweet, nutty flavor.

"The green tin has Virginia or Bright Leaf dried tobacco. It will be sweeter when smoked. This is perhaps the best liked."

"I recommend three pinches into the bowl but you can decrease if tis too strong."

"Perhaps you might share a sampling and taste with someone that also is just curious or indulges already."

"Well then."

"I thank you for your time and for your help."

"Until The Christening   ......"

"Unless you have most questions for me?"

He was indeed deferential to the man before him but there was no patronization.

He knew too that much rides on this meeting but in the end it would be his skills as well as his words alone that saw either success of failure.

[Blackguard]

The Baron presented May with three tins of tobacco, which was an appropriate gift under the circumstances.  The Privy Purse knew nothing of tobacco cultivation and was grateful that John kept it at a high level of explanation.  Still, for a trade dependent on skill of the planter, John seemed to confess that luck was more important.

"One cannot dismiss the importance of luck in any endeavor."  This was true in statesmanship and war certainly.

"Thank you for the gifts," May replied as he signaled his clerk to come forward to collect the tins.  "Yes, we shall see each other again at the Christening."  With that, John was shown out of the suite and Baptist did not have another waiting courtier, so he was free to attempt a smoke. He had heard that the smoke was medicinal, good for curing most any ailment.

[Charles Blount]

Gift or Grift

That morning a servant delivered a wicker hamper, inside, packed in straw were a half dozen pairs of pears. A note from Lord Mountjoy to May’s attention was attached explaining that the fruit was from Mountjoy’s estate in Dorset and presented with his complements. Additionally, Lord Mountjoy was desirous of calling upon upon Mr. May later that morning if he would be so kind to receive him.

Promptly at the time of his choosing Lord Mountjoy arrived to inquire if Master May was a t liberty to spare him a few moments of his time.

[Blackguard]

Mountjoy was not the typical petitioner to Baptist May.  The lord had his own connections with the Queen certainly, and the King as well. This was the sort of man that could gain a royal audience with relative ease.  Other petitioners could not.

Without delay, the Marquis was shown into the antechamber.  "My Lord Mountjoy," May greeted, standing beside the box of pears.  "These pears have arrived ripe and unbruised.  Quite a feat from your estate," he remarked as he offered Blount a seat next to the fire. "Thank you for the gift.  How might I be of assistance?"

[Charles Blount]

“You are quite welcome.” He said regarding the thanks for the pears. “We have a south facing walled terrace that allows the trees to flower early and produce fruit past the normal season so we are blessed with abundance. I also have some of the fruit set down each year for a delightful pear brandy. I surmised that you would the fruit more than the brandy as you have a reputation as a man more apt to rely on intellect than inebriation.”

He took the proffered seat gracefully crossing his legs and resting his arm on the rest is a way that allowed the lace on his sleeve to drape elegantly across his hand. “I suppose you might find it odd that I have sought you out for I am not in need of any particular boon.” He smiled at May. The smile was polite obviously but he could not quite tell if it was one of mirth, superciliousness, or sympathy. “May I tell you a little story?” The question was rhetorical for he continued on not expecting a reply. “When I first came to court, all bright eyed and bushytailed, I strived to be useful to the King. In my exuberance and inexperience, I was audacious enough to interpolate myself into matters that were, at that time, beyond my place. I was successful in that endeavor and His Majesty was suitably appreciative. But some time later the Earl of Danby, who was at that time at the height of his power and influence was kind enough to take me aside and impressed upon me that ‘How’ one did a thing was just as important as ‘doing’ the thing. Although the Earl of Danby has fallen from grace his advice was wise and I have taken that advice to heart. Therefore, I am approaching you instead of approaching the King directly”

He uncrossed his legs. “I have suggestion that may be advantageous to the King but may be something that the King might not necessarily wish to be directly involved with hence my desire for your mediation.” He cleared his throat as he got down to the nub of the matter. “As you undoubtedly are aware, it is customary for the heir to have his own establishment in his own palace. As you are also no doubt aware, many of the royal properties suffered greatly under the usurper and the royal finances have been hard pressed to remedy the damage and neglect of many of the royal residences. If His Majesty has not already decided upon a location, I have a prospect that not only may be suitable in stature and location but also lighter on the privy purse.”

“I bring this proposal to you so as to allow His Majesty full autonomy to act with as much or as little involvement as he desires. As one who is very knowledgeable of his Majesty’s finances is this a proposition that you would be willing to facilitate?”           

[Blackguard]

Mountjoy had a plan to save the privy purse money, of that May was certain.  Palaces in disrepair were not typically candidates for saving money; quite the contrary.

"I do not know if a decision has been made.  I had thought St James and Hampton Court would be fine candidates."  Both were in decent repair.  "Methinks you have some idea to better a palace in a way that may not be well-regarded by the subjects," the man ventured.  Had this been some stranger, May might dismiss any idea as a waste of time; yet, Mountjoy was learned in the law and would not put forth something illegal. 

His own legs were uncrossed and he leaned forward, in case whispers were needed.  "You have my interest."  

[Charles Blount]

“St James would be the simplest to make ready and would be cost effective but I would caution that it is unsuitable from a traditional point of view due to its proximity to Whitehall. It is customary to have the residence of the heir at some remove from the Royal Court for security purposes and it would be advisable, especially when the Prince is young to be out in the wholesome air of the countryside. It would not do if there was some sort of outbreak in London to have the Monarch and his heir in the same city. Hampton Court would fit the bill as it is sufficiently removed. I would however recommend Wimbledon Palace as the most appropriate residence for the young Prince.”

Wimbledon is a mere few miles from Hampton Court so it fits the bill of being close enough to London to be convenient yet distant enough to escape the miasma of the city. It sits on a fine prospect surrounded by numerous courtyards which would supply the security and privacy expected for the future prince of Wales. The house itself is substantial enough to meet the needs of the Prince’s Household and its gardens have been said to be as fine as any in England.”      

He paused to allow May a moment to register his recommendation as it was, he must admit, an unconventional choice. “The estate, although not currently in the Crown’s possession, has a Royal history. It was obtained by King Henry VIII who gave it to Cromwell…Thomas Cromwell that is, not the other one. It returned to Royal possession and served as the residence of catherine Parr until her death. Queen Elizabeth bestowed it upon Sir William Cecil as a grace and favor home and was subsequently purchased by his son who built the current structure in an opulent manner. When he died the estate was recovered by the Crown and served as the country abode of Queen Henrietta-Ann who expanded it to its present configuration.”

“The estate was seized during the rebellion and the house’s contents was sold off but after the war Cromwell… yes, that one, sold it to one of his generals so the estate escaped the brunt of destruction and neglect that many royal properties suffered. Upon His Majesty’s restoration he returned the property to his mother. The Queen Mother had no need of a country residence quickly sold it to the Dowger Countess of Digby who then, a year later, sold it to the Earl of Danby who outfitted the house quite handsomely and in whose legal possession it remains.”

The estate had had a fascinating history, at least to a man such as Charles who had spent hours researching the intricacies of the previous transfers but recognized that not all would find such histories fascination so had just given the briefest overview. “So you see the property has ample precedent of reverting back to the Crown and as the previous owners improved the house significantly and also bore the burden of redecorating which in my estimation significantly exceeds the value of the house and grounds combined, could be had for a fraction if its current value. The legal precedents are well established. The Crown has several avenues to impose a reversion as well as being in a strong position to negotiate a voluntary transfer.”

He paused yet again. “The complicating factor is not the transaction itself but the parties to the transaction. I was not at Court when Danby fell so have no other knowledge of the affair than is commonly known. I am not so naïve as to think there is not more to the story than has been made public and frankly am ready to proceed as if Danby is a traitor to his King or a servant taking blame for his King… whichever position His Majesty wishes me to assume. The possible expenditure reductions from my proposal could be significant to modest depending upon the King’s wishes but I come to you so that His Majesty need not make his wishes directly known. The King, and by extension I, have the legal authority to act but it is a political decision that needs to be made determining how or if I am to act.” 

[Blackguard]

"An inspired plan surely," May complimented at the end of the presentation.  "I know nothing of legal matters, but how many months or years would this litigation consume?"  Battles over property rights were known to take long periods of time.

"I should be happy to consult his Majesty on this opportunity.  I know not the legal status of Danby except that his title and offices were likely forfeit for treason."  It made the Privy Purse wonder as to why Mountjoy did not approach the King directly on the idea.

"As to the suitability of Wimbledon,  its history seems more in keeping with queens as opposed to princes.  Perhaps the King might like to make a gift of it to Queen Katherine instead," he mentioned softly while thinking it more likely that the King would award it to his next mistress.  Cleveland and Portsmouth had received gifts of royal estates.  The place had the taint of Cromwell and Danby as well, two traitors.  Would that be suitable for a prince?  "I am certain that His Majesty will appreciate the idea," he further complimented.  It was possible that the King already had plans for it.

"Osbourne's family is said to be seeking a restoration to favor."  In fact, the Earl of Lindsey had sought May out, as well as others.  "Perhaps they would mount no effort to attempt to retain the property," he speculated.  That would make a transfer smooth.

[Charles Blount]

“As this would be a case of reclamation of a former Crown Property the avenue of compelled conveyance is much simplified. In fact, if Danby’s titles have indeed been legally declared forfeit for treason, it is a simple matter. I could have a bill of attainder written up, or modified if extant, within the hour and once signed by His Majesty implemented immediately. The nub of the issue is, and this is why I came to you instead of going directly to the King, is that his Majesty may have political reasons to refrain from active persecution Danby. As you said the Osbourne’s have their interests and that might give the King pause or at least plausible deniability. Perhaps even the threat of such might incentivize the Osbournes to agree to a transfer of a secondary property so as not to complicate their ability to regain the main estates and title. If his Majesty desires the property returned to the Crown, I am willing to facilitate the transfer with however much persuasion or tact as his Majesty desires. With the King’s tacit authority, I would be able to negotiate quietly with those involved to further the King’s wishes.” As Solicitor General he had the authority to act in the King’s name and he would defend the King’s interest with as much aggression or tact as the situation required.  He would act with the full force of the law but in a case like this politics was also a factor and he would need May to gauge how he should proceed. Doing so via an intermediary would shield the King from any criticism.

“Additionally, may I inquire if you have settled with parliament on any changes to the Civil List to compensate for the increased expenditure required for the prince’s household? My learned brethren in the Commons are usually loathed to approve expenditures but they are good Englishmen and can not be other than joyous at the birth of the Prince. Now would be a good time to approach them as they could hardly balk at adequately providing for the future King. Why even Shaftesbury and the Country Party could hardly object being so relieved that a protestant heir has been secured.”         

[Blackguard]

"Although I am privy to His purse," May began, "I am not privy to his thoughts on this matter."  He smiled in jest.  "Everything you say makes eminent sense.  I know that much, if not all, of his properties have been seized.  I do not know specifically about Wimbledon.  I should think it an easy affair, as you describe it."

The topic of new taxes were a delicate thing.  "Yes, the Parliament tightens the royal purse whenever it can, but I do not doubt that the arrival of a Protestant heir may loosen the purse strings.  I should think a Royalist should introduce legislation in each house, to provide for the Prince of Wales," he agreed.  "I believe that the right time mentioned was the first session of Parliament after the Christening.  All will behold the prince here at Windsor and then the peers and MPs can get to work. Perhaps you will be the one to make the first move in this regard."  Despite that, May supposed that Buckingham would want such a stage. He was a master politician in such regards.

[Charles Blount]

“If you would be so good as to quietly inquire as to the Kings thoughts in this matter, I would be more than happy to facilitate them in whatever way I can. As to the introduction of legislation I would of course be willing but I suppose that Buckingham would want such a stage.” Both Mountjoy and May appeared to be on the same page but he then went on to complicate the matter. “It is only natural that any Royalist would be honored to propose such a Bill but it may be politic if a member of the opposition were to do so. It is well known that Shaftsbury and I oppose each other on many issues but on this issue we find ourselves bedfellows as they say. The Earl is not very inclined to advance the Court Party but he and his Country Party brethren are anti French and anti-Catholic. The birth of an heir, a Protestant heir, is a stick in the eye to the French and the Pope. I could have a quiet word with Shaftsbury. He is a practical man and might be persuaded that now would not be the time to interrupt the good will of the people and sully the introduction of the Prince of Wales. If we could come to some agreement on an adequate increase in the Civil List we could allow the Country party, and Shaftsbury in particular, the honor of introducing the Bill thus garnering the mantle loyal magnanimity. Surely, we are in a superior position and able to afford to relinquish the public praise for private acknowledgement that we aided the King.”

 He had stated his proposal and only needed Danby to obtain the requite royal consent to begin. “There would be enough time between the christening and the next session for me to sequester the property and either come to an agreement with the opposition or introduce our own Bill and dare them to stand against the new Prince.”               

[Blackguard]

"Yes, yes," I will speak with him," May committed.  They agreed about Buckingham initially.  Not only was the Duke the closest thing to a Chief Minister but he also hated Danby with a passion.  Yet, Mountjoy's suggestion was better.

"Yes, I can see why you are in politics and not I," he laughed.  "An inspired idea to be sure, and it is unfair for the privy purse to bear the expense of the Prince of Wales.  Let us hope that Lord Shaftesbury is generous."  It was clear to Charles that May had not thought overly on the topic prior to their meeting, but it was clear that the idea had taken full root in his mind.

"Thank you for bringing this to my attention.  Were there other topics to discuss?" he naturally inquired. 

[Charles Blount]

He had stated his plan and had received support from May so all that was left was to obtain the King’s endorsement and he could begin the execution. When May asked if there was anything else his lips quivered but did not smile.

“I suppose now would be the time for me to ask for some favor in return. Alas, I am content with my current situation so therefore, at least for the time being, I shall be satisfied with the knowledge that I was of service to His Majesty. Consequently, I have no other topics to raise other than to bid you a pleasant day and pray that you find the pears appetizing… which I do so now.” He stood to make his way out. “Until we next we speak, I shall be the personification of eager anticipation.”