A New Arrival | Thursday 22nd, late afternoon (open)

[Aria]

A soft sigh echoed through one of the palace hallways as a young lady turned a corner and stopped.

 

She was petite and pretty, with olive-toned skin and thick raven curls arranged in a fashionable style. An older woman wearing a dark green gown accompanied her. The somber color contrasted with the crimson silk of her companion’s lavish attire.

 

“I don't think this leads to the garden,” the younger lady said in Italian. “The servant we asked for directions probably didn't understand my question."

[Charles Whitehurst]

Charles had spent the morning after leaving Sam giving instructions to his troopers to prepare mounted parties to sweep the hiding places along the river where an assassin might hide, as discussed with Lord Beverley.  Arrangements were made for additional patrols on the morrow.  It was important to show the flag with a heavy presence of Life Guard soldiers along the river to dissuade bad behavior.  The Major was thinking that he would stay at the harbor and send Sam to lead the patrols.  He supposed that FitzJames could lead one as well.

Heading back to his spartan office, Charles happened upon a couple of ladies that seemed disoriented.  They seemed to speak in a foreign tongue, which suggested that he learn their origin.  It would be foreign agents that would be the danger.  Although no gentleman would suspect a true lady, he could not be sure that the pair were true ladies.

"Good afternoon ladies," Charles declared as he approached.  He doffed his hat in greeting and offered a smile to both.  "Might I be of assistance?"

[Eleanor Bayning]

Perhaps Fortune was smiling on Charles that afternoon, or perhaps it was simply that his path lay through one of the more popular hallways of the castle. No sooner had he approached one young lady than the footsteps of another could be heard approaching from the other direction. "Do you think that they just make the fortunes up?" Eleanor could be heard to ask her chaperone Mary, as the pair rounded a corner. "It all seemed so terribly serious." She added before noticing the trio paused before her, recognising one of them. 

"Why, Lord Langdon, what a delight. A good afternoon to you. And to you both." She bobbed a curtsey to the group with a smile, fanning herself genteely, wondering whether introductions might be made. The young lady in the crimson dress seemed to be in much the same position as herself. A possible friend perhaps?

[Aria]

The soldier who approached her was quite handsome, She had always been drawn to men in uniform. His was a similar in color to her crimson gown. She had seen other men wearing them but was not aware of their significance.

 

Her demeanor changed so quickly that he might not have seen that being lost had frustrated her. Graceful, proud, and her head held high, she looked quite regal and perhaps a bit haughty. The smile she turned on him, though, was disarming. The other woman took a step back so that she stood slightly behind her.

 

“Good afternoon.” Her voice was pleasant and cultured and her English, which she spoke with a lyrical Italian accent, was excellent. Before she could say more, a young lady strolled up to them and addressed the solider by name. Lord Langdon. She wondered what his first name was. Perhaps he would tell her someday. She did like the look of him. Perhaps …

 

The lady was polite, curtsying to the gentleman and herself. Both of them had greeted her maidservant as well. She thought that rather funny, but it was understandable.. Not all noblewomen dressed ostentatiously, particularly older ladies. Perhaps they thought that Nella was her mother.

 

“I am looking for the gardens. I believe I may have taken a wrong turn. This is my first time visiting the palace."

[Charles Whitehurst]

"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance," Charles replied. "Welcome to Windsor Castle.  I am Charles Whitehurst, Earl of Langdon and an officer in His Majesty's Life Guard."  His other titles and offices need not be mentioned at this point.  "May I introduce Miss Eleanor Bayning, the daughter of the Viscount Bayning?  She and I have had the pleasure of meeting this season."  He paused for Eleanor to add what she wished, or for the Italian lady to say something.

"We would be happy to assist you in finding the gardens.  Are you here for the Christening?  I am surprised that you found lodging here, given the shortage."  He was quiet to allow the lady to provide information.

[Eleanor Bayning]

Eleanor nodded in affirmation as Charles introduced her, casting a quite, sideway glance of gratitude in the Earl's direction. "Indeed we did." She replied warmly, recalling that Charles was a quite charming storyteller. The identity of the other young lady yet remained a mystery, but as the older woman dropped behind her Eleanor surmised that she was not a family member but a chaperone, much as Mary followed behind her. 

Charles took the lead, offering to help the lady but including Eleanor, for which she was grateful. Uncle Henry had warned her about Langdon's reputation, but so far he seemed perfectly charming to her. Perhaps therein lay the danger, but as yet she could not fault the man. And he implied an excellent question. Who was this late arrival, that she was suddenly here in the palace? She would not interrupt a gentleman, but rather waited with interest to see what the young lady - was that an Italian accent? - would say. 

[Aria]

The gentleman introduced himself and the lady. Now she knew what the uniform meant. He was one of the King’s personal guards. And an Earl as well. It seemed that he and Mistress Bayning had only recently become acquainted with each other. She did not know why that pleased her. The lady interested her as well, but not in the same way. She hoped to make many friends at court.

 

“Saluti. I am Maria Vittoria Gonzaga Augustine, Principessa of Guastalla and Baroness of Willowmere. Yes, my mother, cousin, and I have come for the Christening to represent the House of Gonzaga.”

 

She sighed again, this time in frustration. “We should have sent a representative to rent a house before the season began. We arrived two days ago and the only one we could find is much too small. It only has two bedrooms and cannot accommodate all our servants. Some of them have been sleeping in the halls and on the floor of the parlor.” She raised her dark eyes heavenward. “And I must share a room with my mother! It is unacceptable, but what are we to do?

 

“I came to the palace to get away from the chaos and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet in the gardens.”

[Charles Whitehurst]

Well that was a mouthful, the Earl thought to himself as the stranger's introduction had a plethora of names.  He had not heard of the House of Gonzaga, nor had he heard of Guastalia, but it sounded Italian.  Though Charles had traveled to Turin, he did not have an appreciation for small duchies, counties, or towns.  Willowmere, on the other hand, sounded decidedly English.  A gentleman is required to accept any lady's title in a complimentary way.

"Then it is my pleasure and honor to make your acquaintance Prinicipessa," he replied formally, wondering if he had pronounced things correctly.  "Willowmere sounds familiar," he offered, though it was hardly true.  Rather, it was an excuse to learn where it might be located.

There was little Charles could do about the accommodations in town.  Beverley might be able to find a room for her in the castle, but it would likely have smaller space.  It sounded like there were three nobles, which might mean three or four servants.  That would mean four rooms plus living areas to entertain, and perhaps a garden.  His rented farmhouse would not work, as it had just enough room for two lovers.  Bagshot, on the other hand, lay empty, but for his caretakers, and it was but an hour away.  The question was whether they would wreck the place.  Did they have money to cover expenses?

"I know of a royal hunting lodge that is but an hour or so from Windsor that is empty this season.  It could accommodate a dozen or more persons and has ample space and grounds, if this would be of interest.  It is further away but quite comfortable.  There are but three servants there, and the furnishings are a bit rustic, as you might expect from a hunting lodge."  Maybe they would help pay the upkeep? 

Not wanting to exclude Eleanor from the conversation, he turned to her and inquired "unless Miss Bayning knows of a better accommodation."

[Eleanor Bayning]

It was a long name, but then the English could have long names too, they just didn't usually offer the whole thing by way of introduction. A slight difference of cultures she supposed. But the house was one that Eleanor recognised. "Oh, of Mantua!" She exclaimed. "How wonderful. Oh but to have access to all those fabulous brocades." For the city was a known place of excellence in the production of fine brocade, and any lady who had an abiding interest in fashion would covet fabric from that location. The Gonzagos were, if she recalled correctly, Dukes, but perhaps the Italians, like the Germans, had a prince and princess for every province. She didn't know and wouldn't presume to guess. If Maria said she was a princess, then Eleanor would assume that was correct form of address. Baroness of Willowmere sounded English, and that was interesting. Whilst she recognised the family name, Eleanor had no knowledge of the genealogy that might have led to the young woman before them. "How delightful to have the House of Gonzaga present." She beamed. 

Still, from the sound of things there were three Italian nobles squeezed into a two bedroom house, and presumably the cousin was either the ranking individual, or male, if Maria was forced to share with her mother. Also of interest was the young woman's apparently English title. Lord Langdon offered a hunting lodge an hour out of town which sounded roomy but of course somewhat removed from the festivities. Still, it might prove preferable to their current rather cosy arrangements. Then he turned his attention, and the question, onto her. Eleanor had not been expecting that but she paused thoughtfully. She had a single room in the castle, and her uncle Lord Grey had accomodations in town that sounded of a similar size to those the visitors already had, so there was no answer there. Unless... "I may know of a possible alternative," she said cautiously, "but you will permit me to make enquiries first." She didn't want to make promises she couldn't keep. Still... "What a pity your husband could not accompany you." She said solicitously to Maria. "But at least you have the company of your cousin?"

Given their cramped lodgings, Eleanor could quite understand Maria's desire to escape. "The gardens are quite lovely, and I can recommend the Orangery for days when the weather outside is not quite so clement." She offered, being quite enamoured of the place herself. "Would you like to see it?"

[Aria]

Though Maria had intended to tell Lord Langdon where Willowmere was located. Mistress Bayning’s exclamation made her eyes light up. Most people who had heard of Mantua knew it only as a minor location in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. but this lady seemed to know more about the city in which she had grown up. “Si!Have you been there? It is such a lovely place.”

 

A royal hunting lodge seemed like a great alternative to their current accommodations, especially considering the number of horses they had brought with them. “Does it also have a large stable and a carriage house? We are renting stalls for some of our horses but it would be nice to have them with us. Traveling for an hour is a small price to pay for more room and privacy.” The houses in Windsor were too close together and one of their neighbors practiced the violin very loudly and very horribly at all hours of the day and night.

 

She looked at Eleanor. “Does the place you know of have room for several horses and a coach and some wagons as well?  We can even move in tonight.”  No more screeching strings would be heavenly.

 

Sadness darkened her pretty features. “I wish my lord husband could be with me, but he passed away earlier this year.”

 

Her mood brightened quickly at the mention of an orangery. “I would love to see it.  The weather is so dismal here. Warmth would be very welcome.” She glanced at Lord Langdon as she said the last sentence, thinking of a different kind of warmth. “Will you come too, my lord?”  And a different kind of coming as well.

[Charles Whitehurst]

"Why yes," Charles replied, "the stables are quite large.  It was built to hold multiple coaches and dozens of horses.  It is vacant at the moment, so your timing is good."  Charles paused to allow Eleanor a chance to offer her alternative if she wished.

Mantua lace was apparently quite famous.  Charles supposed it was connected to Gaustalla and Gonzaga, though he was not quite sure.  It was better to just smile and hope that the circumstances would become clearer.  Nothing was said about Windmere.

The lady admitted she was a widow.  "My condolences."  He assumed that the grieving period had ended.  The somber mood was cut short by Eleanor's offer to escort Maria to the Orangery.  Charles was content to let the two ladies carry on together.  Eleanor could look after her, but then the Italian asked for him to accompany them.  He paused a moment to consider how to take his leave, but decided it would not hurt to learn a bit more about his potential tenant.  "I have duties to perform, but I shall accompany you ladies for a time," he replied.  It was the male task to lead the way, so he started to move in the direction of the Orangery.  "Perhaps you can tell us of your journey as we walk," he offered, hoping to learn more. 

[Eleanor Bayning]

"Oh, no, I've never been to Mantua," Eleanor admitted, eyes downcast as she lamented the fact, "but I have heard so many wonderful things about it. I would love to visit there one day." She added with a shy smile. One day perhaps, when she was married, if her husband allowed. Perhaps she might find a man who would like to travel? Or maybe... maybe even her Uncle might go to the continent, and maybe she might even be permitted to go with him? She could dream. 

Maria asked whether Eleanor's proposed accommodations had the same ability to house their horses as the hunting lodge which Lord Langdon offered, which she would readily admit sounded far more appropriate to their needs. "No." She admitted with a quiet shake of her head, making her curls bounce. "Lord Langdon's hunting lodge does sound perfect, save for the distance." Which could be something of a tyranny if one wished to be close to the action. "I have a room in the castle itself." She explained. "I had thought to offer it to your good self, or your cousin, if my Uncle, Lord Grey, will grant me the use of the spare room in the house that he has rented." Leaving the remaining two of the Italian trio with a room each in the house that they had rented. But clearly she would need to ask her Uncle first.

She'd also thought to speak with him first so that he could present the solution as his own idea, potentially gaining a favour from the Italian family. Why, he was even looking for a wife, and Maria admitted she was widowed... Eleanor's fan flew up to cover her mouth and her blue eyes widened for a moment over the faux pas. "I am so sorry." She said earnestly. The poor woman looked barely older than Eleanor, and yet she was already widowed, and clearly missed her husband. How sad. 

Mention of the Orangery seemed a welcome distraction, and Eleanor automatically fell in beside Maria, thinking that the might enjoy it together. "The scent from the blossoms is divine, and there's even a pine-apple." She all but whispered, conspiritorially. Maria asked whether Lord Langdon would join them, and Eleanor smiled when he agreed to accompany them at least for a short while. For all that she'd been warned, he always seemed good and polite company. So the two ladies could follow the Life Guard, their chaperones following them, to the welcome warmth of the Orangery. 

[Aria]

Maria smiled at Mistress Bayning. “I hope you get the chance. If I am there when you decide to go, I will show you around. I will be returning to Italy for Carnival in Venice next year, and might just stay until the next season begins. I have not yet decided.”

 

Unfortunately, the young lady’s solution was not what her family was looking for. “I appreciate your generosity, but we want to stay together and we do need places for our horses and carriages.” She turned to Lord Langdon. “The hunting lodge sounds perfect. I am sure that my mother and my cousin will agree. “Since you described it as royal, do you need permission from His Majesty before we move in?” She really hoped that they could stay there tonight.

 

Both of her new acquaintances offered their condolences on the death of her husband. “Thank you,” she said sincerely. “We were not married long, but I still miss him immensely.” Maria was so tired of being a widow. At only nineteen years old, she had already been married three times. She was adamant that her next husband would be young, strong, and handsome. Perhaps he would hold a military position as well.

 

It was clear that the other lady adored the Orangery. Maria was disappointed that Lord Langdon would have to return to his duties soon, but she looked forward to spending more time with Mistress Bayning. They could converse more freely without a gentleman around. And she assumed she would be seeing more of him at court events.

 

He asked to hear about her journey as he led them to the Orangery. “It is a sad tale. Shortly after my marriage, my father passed away.” No more sympathy, please, or I’ll scream, she thought to herself. “I stayed with my family for a few months and then traveled here to join my husband at Willowmere, which is close to the coast about halfway between Scotland and Wales.

 

“When I arrived, I found out that he had died of a heart attack. I was content to grieve alone until my mother wrote to me and told me that she and my cousin planned to attend the christening of the King’s heir. They stayed with me for a couple of weeks, and then we packed up our things and here we are. My mother will be returning to Mantua after the end of the season, but my cousin wants to stay. He deals in diamonds and does lots of business here.”

 

[Charles Whitehurst]

Mantua seemed nice enough, but it sounded more like a place for ladies.  Charles would prefer to visit Rome and tour the Roman ruins.  What soldier would not wish to walk along plazas where Julius Caesar and the famous Roman emperors tarried?  He wore a pleasing smile as the two ladies spoke about travels taken and wished to be taken.

It sounded like he had found tenants for Bagshot, and the cousin dealt in diamonds if he heard Maria correctly.  Maybe he could earn back the 240 pounds he had spent with the Venetian merchant by renting the lodge for the rest of the year.  Certainly housing was at a premium for the remainder of the court season, which might last for weeks more.  "No royal permission required," he answered.  "The Crown sold it and one other lodge a few years ago. The King had too many.  I hold the property in trust for my wards, and I would be happy to take you to see the property later today, and see if you will find it suitable.  It is a grand lodge and the animals are plentiful."  He made a mental note to free up the rest of the afternoon so that he could lead the Italians to find the property.  Though he was not anxious to lose much of the rest of the day, the family members were all related to Italian dukes and they seemed to have money, which was a good combination.  He could not have his manservant take them there.  They were  too high ranking.  "Let me know when you would like to go see it and I shall clear my schedule for you."

It seemed that she was recently widowed but had passed the grieving period.  "I lost a wife in a brief marriage," he disclosed, trying to sound empathetic.  "It lasted but a year.  She was from Savoy."  That might spark interest because it was closer to her home.

The Orangery had much to recommend it.  Though Windsor smelled much better than the open urinal that was London, it did not smell like flowers, as did the Orangery.  It was a pleasant contrast. Charles could not help but take a deep breath upon arrival.  He was ready to take his leave once the time was set for their tour of Bagshot. 

[Eleanor Bayning]

"That is so kind." Eleanor replied warmly. "To see Mantua with one who knows her well would be a real treat." Venice. Carnival. Venice was another place that Eleanor had heard of in Italy; they made the best glass there, by all accounts. And one needed glass for lenses, did they not? Perhaps another angle to persuade Uncle Henry... 

Maria thanked her for her offer and explained why they'd prefer the hunting lodge. "Of course, it's only sense." She replied, waving any possibility of concern or offence away with her fan. How fortunate for the other girl that she'd encountered Lord Langdon. Other woman, really. Eleanor was struggling with the idea of being already widowed at such an age, when she barely looked older than the Viscount's daughter herself. Imagine... the poor thing. And she'd lost her father shortly after being married! So she had her mother and... her cousin? Who dealt in diamonds no less. Eleanor's curiosity was piqued, though for a moment her thoughts wondered whether the tale that Maria was spinning was all true? Only time would tell. 

Lord Langdon revealed that he was a widower, also following a brief marriage. Just one year, and also from the continent. Was such so common? Eleanor's parents had been married for years and both were yet in rude good health, so she'd taken that to be the norm. It was something to ponder, she supposed. "Do you have any other family?" She asked Maria, curious. "I am here with my uncle, Baron Grey of Codnor Castle." She explained. "Hopefully this season will be an enjoyable distraction for you." The way Maria was dressed indicated that she was out of mourning, so it was time for her to look to her future. 

They stepped into the Orangery and it was as though the cool of Autumn with it's looming threat of Winter lifted, returning them to the brief warmth of summer, or perhaps somewhere more tropical and exotic! Eleanor took a deep breath of the citrus-scented air and closed her eyes for a moment in enjoyment. "What are the gardens like in Mantua?" She asked.

[Aria]

Maria was relieved that Mistress Bayning was gracious when she refused her offer in favor of a place that had all the space they needed. They could even go hunting, which was a pastime that all three of them enjoyed. She had brought her cook along. If they could buy supplies in town, they might even be self-sufficient. “We would like to see it at your earliest convenience,” she told Lord Langdon. The young Italian hoped that he would be able to show them around himself.

 

So the handsome Life Guard was a widower. “I’m so sorry,” she replied. Maria didn’t mind giving condolences. She just didn’t like receiving them. “My great-grandfather on my mother’s side was Charles Emmanuel I, a former Duke of Savoy.  I've been there a few times."

 

She nodded when Mistress Bayning asked if she had other family. “I think most of the great Italian families are related in some way. My mother is Principessa Margherita d’Este Gonzaga, the daughter of Alfonso d’Este, a former Duke of Modena. She is a great-aunt of the Duchess of York. I also have an older sister whose husband succeeded my father as Duke of Guastalla.” There was a reason she mentioned her closest relatives last.

 

Maria, too, breathed deeply of the fragrant air in the Orangery. “It almost feels like home here. Thank you for showing it to me. I will probably visit quite often. My mother will enjoy it too. The gardens of Mantua are lovely and lush. Some of the plants and flowers in Italy do not grow well here in England. It is far too cold. I am having an Orangery built on my estate and I am going to try to grow them there.”

[Charles Whitehurst]

Maria announced her wish to visit Bagshot as soon as possible.  Charles accepted the condolences and, when there was a break in the banter, he announced "I had best dispense with the remainder of my schedule for the afternoon.  I shall meet you and your family at the stable in one hour and shall lead you there."  That would be sufficient time to send a message ahead that the servants should chase out any pigeons or animals that may have nested in the lodge, and to give it a quick brooming.

Turning toward Eleanor, Charles smiled and stated "it was a pleasure to see you again Miss Bayning.  I shall leave our guest in your company."  With that and a quick nod to each in farewell, Charles strode away from the Orangery and in search of his manservant Elam.

 

OOC~ I will start a continuation tour thread.

[Eleanor Bayning]

Maria did come from an illustrious line! Well, as she pointed out, many of the great Italian families were intertwined, but still... mind you, so were many of the English families, even relative upstarts like the Baynings. Eleanor had learned as she grew that there were a few family connections they'd rather not acknowledge, in their effort to be the proper noble family. Thank goodness for the Grey respectability.

The last relation she mentioned however... her sister's husband had inherited their father's title. That was interesting. Eleanor wasn't sure such could happen in England, but then she supposed the sister - and she must be the older sister - would have a son who would then inherit. Which made Maria and her older sister their father's heirs, with no brother. And their father was dead. So who would dictate Maria's next match? The mother? The sister's husband. Eleanor had no idea of how they did things in Italy, but of one thing at least she was certain; she wanted to introduce Maria to Henry. 

"It is not so dissimilar with English families, if one delves into their trees." She reassured Maria. "My mother is a Grey, and her family have included Earls, Dukes and a Queen." She said, not listing them for fear of seeming to brag overmuch. "Why, you should meet my uncle." She declared, as though it were a passing thought. "Baron Grey would be fascinated to hear of Venice; I understand the best glass is Venetian. He's an astronomer, you see." And telescopes needed lenses.

"A pleasure as always, Lord Langdon." Eleanor replied, curtseying with a smile as Charles took his leave of them. He really did seem like such a nice fellow. 

She returned her attention to Maria, who expressed her appreciation of the Orangery. "It is my pleasure." She replied earnestly. It was a delightful place, and even more so in good company. "How wonderful to be able to build one at Willowmere." She opined. Wouldn't that be a wonderful thing to have? "Perhaps one day I shall see the gardens in Mantua." A young girl could have many dreams. Maybe some of them would come true. 

"I admit, I have yet to be married. I cannot think what it would be like to be already widowed." Eleanor said. Her tone was matter of fact rather than pitying. "Do you find Willowmere lonely?" She asked quietly, her fan rising in it's wafting to screen them a little. "Or is it peaceful, to have your own place?" Now that Langdon was gone, Eleanor felt she might indulge her curiosity a little, if Maria would allow it. 

 

[Aria]

“We will be there,” Maria promised. As Lord Langdon and Mistress Bayning said farewell, she instructed Nella to go back to the house and tell her mother and cousin that they had been offered another place to stay and to be ready in an hour’s time. It was short notice but they were as eager to move as she was. The older woman curtsied to her mistress and hurried off. The young Baroness returned the Earl’s nod. Her gaze followed him briefly and then moved back to Eleanor as she spoke of her own family.

 

“How interesting,” she replied. “Your family’s connections are also quite impressive.” Her smile broadened when the young lady mentioned that her uncle was an astronomer. “Yes, Venice produces the best glass in the world. In fact, the lenses of Galileo’s telescope were made from Murano glass. I don’t know much about astronomy, but maybe the newer ones are too. The beads sewn on most of my gowns come from Murano too. It’s funny to think that lenses and fashion accessories are made at the same place.

 

“Will you and your uncle attend the yacht race tomorrow? If so, perhaps you can introduce us and you can meet my mother and my cousin.” Maybe Cesare would be interested in her new friend. He had more than his fair share of admirers in Italy, but had not yet found the lady he wished to settle down with.

 

It was quite clear that Mistress Bayning loved the Orangery. “It’s wonderful to be able to build whatever you like on your own property. The gentleman who inherited my husband’s title was a distant relative who had no interest in the estate. So I bought it from him.   I even helped design the Orangery. It’s not going to be as grand as this one, but it will still be beautiful and warm.”

 

Maria began to walk down one of the paths, looking at the plants on each side. “I hope that when you marry, your lord husband will live for a long time and that the two of you will be happy together and have many children. Make certain you marry a young gentleman. My husband was close to forty years my senior, but he was very kind to me.”

 

She nodded. “It is a bit lonely, but it’s nice to be financially independent. Sometimes I wish my family lived closer. Do you have a large family, Mistress Bayning? Did they come to court with you?”

 

[Eleanor Bayning]

Wasn't it lovely that Lord Langdon was able to help Maria's family out? People at court could be so kind. Why, she'd begun to question what she'd been concerned about. And Maria seemed positively delightful too, even speaking politely about her family connections. She even seemed to appreciate the appeal of astronomy and it's connection to her home country. "I do not know much about astronomy either." Eleanor admitted quietly. "But Lord Grey held a viewing night on Wednesday night and it proved very popular. Even the King came! And the chance to view more of God's creation through the science of lenses... I can see why he insists on only the best glass." Which of course was the Murano glass that Maria spoke of. "Murano beads! How wonderful!" She exclaimed. Imagine having such things to work with, though likely Maria had people do her embroidery for her. "I would love to see them, when you wear one of those gowns." She said hopefully. "I have quite an interest in embroidery, you see." She gestured to the detailed flora that decorated her own attire.

Eleanor certainly planned to be at the Yacht Race, and unless he got distracted her uncle should be too. "We will, and I'd be delighted to introduce you, and to meet your family." She said warmly. How lovely. Surely Uncle Henry would at least be interested to meet the Gonzaga representatives, on a trade basis if nothing else. But Eleanor knew he was also looking for a wife and who knew, perhaps he and the widowed Maria might find a certain mutual appeal? She could only introduce them and see. 

With Langdon and Maria's servant gone on their respective duties, the two young ladies could wander side by side down the paths of the Orangery chatting, Mary the chaperone following behind them. Eleanor listened with interest as Maria described her life now, the freedom to use her property as she saw fit, and how she came to keep it. Someone else had inherited her husband's title, but she'd purchased the estate. That means she is wealthy. Which made sense; she was a Principessa, an heir, and a Gonzaga. She would be quite the catch for Uncle Henry. But she was also enjoyable company. Eleanor could imagine having Maria as an in-law and visiting with her and Henry, spending time chatting about fashion and enjoying the gardens. Well, they should have to see. First to make the introductions.

Meanwhile, Eleanor was intrigued by the insights her new friend revealed, including her caution to marry a young gentleman, as Maria explained that it was her husband's age that led to her early widowhood. But the wish for their future happy union and children was a lovely thought. "Thank you, that's very kind of you. I do hope so, and I will remember your advice." She said quietly. It  was greatly appreciated. 

"I have three siblings, all quite a bit younger than myself." There was a lost pregnancy and a child who had died in infancy between Eleanor and her eldest brother. "My father prefers the countryside to court." She tried to explain. "The Baynings have been land holders for generations but the title is relatively new." She admitted. It was her mother's side who had the long, noble history. 

Which, given the noble history of the Gonzagas, made her wonder. "Did you consider returning to Guastalla to be with your family, after your husband died?"

[Aria]

“That sounds like fun. I wish I had arrived a few days earlier so that I could have attended too. Lord Grey must have been thrilled that the King was there. I’ve never looked through a telescope before. With an astronomer for an uncle, you must do it all the time. I am curious as to what the moon and stars look like up close.” Maria definitely looked forward to meeting Eleanor’s uncle.

 

She peered at the embroidery on Mistress Bayning’s gown. “You are very talented. I must confess I can barely stitch at all. My governess was so disappointed in me. I have my own dressmaker now. One of the reasons I chose her was her skill at embroidering with beads. I will be wearing a beaded dress at the christening.”

 

Maria stopped to smell a bright red flower. “It must be nice to be the eldest. I’m the youngest myself. My older sister bossed me around a lot and thought she was better than me. We were never very close.” She sighed in frustration. “Now that she’s the Duchess of Guastalla, she’s insufferable! I hope you and your siblings get along better than we do.”

 

Eleanor asked if she had considered moving back to Italy after her husband’s death. “I thought about it. Sometimes I still do.  But in Guastalla, I would have to obey my brother-in-law, who is even more annoying than my sister.  He could marry me to a man of his choosing just to get me out of the way.  Here I can be independent and can choose my own husband when I'm ready to wed again.  I’m also a Protestant and England is a Protestant country. That is important to me.”

 

She resumed walking. “Have you been to court before? Or is this your first time?”

[Eleanor Bayning]

Eleanor hadn't yet had the opportunity to look through telescopes much, but after the experience on Wednesday night she had resolved to learn more about them. It had been quite the experience, viewing the greater bounds of Creation through the artifice of science. "I am sure Lord Grey would be delighted to set up a telescope for you." She replied, thinking that was a good angle to bring the two together after an initial meeting. 

Colouring prettily at Maria's compliment, Eleanor smiled. "Thank you, I do enjoy it." She said simply. "Just don't ask me to paint you a picture;" she added in a stage whisper, in response to Maria's admission, "a child would do better." But then everyone had their own talents. "How wonderful to have a talented dressmaker; I shall look for you at the Christening." The English girl definitely wanted to see these beads. Although they might prove a terrible temptation, if she liked the look of them. 

"I'm sorry to hear you and your sister aren't close." She said quietly, fiddling with her fan. It occured to Eleanor that, by the time her sister Mary came to court, she would no doubt be long married and with children of her own. How easy to assume superiority over her youngest sibling. "I shall try not to be the insufferable older sister, when my younger sister has her debut." She resolved. There was a considerable age gap, but Eleanor enjoyed her little sister, and her brothers. She wanted to be the one they looked up to, not the one they found overbearing.

Her attention was drawn by a delicate bloom and the young lady used it as a cover for her slight feeling of awkwardness. Maria was being adorably frank with her, and she loved it, but the fact she could do nothing to help a situation that obviously pained her new friend distressed her. "At least you can stay here in England." And have the freedom of a widow. "I have heard that the men of some Catholic countries can be very... protective, of their ladies." She said delicately, wondering whether that was true of the Italians. From what she understood, women in England had quite a lot of freedoms, though all things were relative. 

The two walked on. "No, this is my debut." Eleanor admitted. "It has been quite the eye-opener, and I have met so many lovely people." She flashed her new friend a smile, to show she included Maria amongst those. "I wasn't certain what it would be like and, well, one hears rumours." Which reminded her of something. "On that note," she added quietly, fan up to shield her mouth, "ensure you stay with your mother or chaperone when you view the hunting lodge with Lord Langdon." She said carefully. "He has never been anything but charming to me, but I have been warned that... he is rather interested in ladies of breeding." She said delicately. "Perhaps that is why he is so charming." She mused, remembering that encounter in the hallway where he'd offered to accompany her up to her room so that she did not get lost. 

[Aria]

“If he offers, then I will gladly accept.” Maria would be pleased if Eleanor’s uncle set up a telescope especially for her, but she would never ask him to do so.

 

She laughed at Mistress Bayning’s assessment of her own painting skills. “I actually paint quite well, or so I have been told. Ladies are supposed to be talented in all of the arts, but each of us has our own strengths and weaknesses. If you like the beads, I can get some for you, though they might also be sold in London shops. Murano glass is prized all over the world.”

 

Perhaps she shouldn’t have said anything about her sister. “I can already tell that you won’t be. You are sweet and kind rather than haughty and selfish. You will probably give your sister much needed guidance when she debuts. She is lucky to have a sister like you.”

 

After inhaling deeply of the flower’s pleasing scent, Maria stood up and smiled at her new friend. “For now, I think London is the best place for me. You are correct that Italian gentleman are very protective. Noble widows, particularly princesses, do not have the same freedoms that they enjoy here. They still live under the guardianship of the head of their House until they marry again. In my case, that would be intolerable.”

 

Their stroll continued. “You must be so excited to attend court at last. And it is wonderful that you have met so many intriguing people.” Mistress Bayning had a cheerful disposition, which likely made her popular with other courtiers. She was very easy to talk to.

 

One of Maria’s dark eyebrows quirked upward when warned about Lord Langdon’s flirtatious tendencies. To her, that knowledge made him more intriguing. She could hardly wait to see him again. “Thank you for letting me know, Mistress Bayning. My mother and cousin will be with me.” The young Italian chuckled. “My lady mother is quite formidable. If he steps out of line, she will put him in his place.”

 

She was concerned that Eleanor wouldn’t be able to resist Lord Langdon. “He is very appealing. Make sure you keep him at arm’s length as well. Gentleman like that know how to get through your defenses. I have met others like him before.”

 

[Eleanor Bayning]

"Well then I am envious." Eleanor declared, her words belied by her warm smile. "Capturing a scene in paint for immortality is such a fine skill." Eleanor had certainly tried, she knew it was a ladylike persuit and she loved the colours, but her sense of proportion always seemed to be a little off; they never looked real. Alas but impressionism and abstract art would not become popular for a couple of centuries yet. Ah well. She stopped at another plant and delicately touched one of the dainty flowers with the tip of her finger. "I do so love the flowers." She mused. "Such delicate beauty is a gift from the Divine." Like the rainbow and the sunset; reminders of God's care for his children. 

Had she known Maria possibly regretted her words, Eleanor would have assured the other woman that no one would hear anything from her. She was not a gossip and would keep that tidbit in confidence unless she felt that someone - say, for example, Henry Grey - really needed to know. "Thank you." She replied demurely as Maria assured her that she would be a good sister. Eleanor would certainly try. She couldn't understand why Maria's own sister might not be so kind to her. "I know I would be delighted to have a sister like you." At least so far; Maria seemed completely delightful. Alas that she'd had a more challenging time these last few years. 

It was interesting to hear that here surmise about Italian gentlemen was correct, it was worth remembering. And interesting that, even as a widow, Maria returned to the hand of the head of the house, to marry off as he sees fit, as she had previously alluded. No wonder she stayed in England. Whilst Eleanor didn't doubt that her brother in law would surely have only the best interests of House Gonzaga in mind, he could understand, after having been wed, wanting to have some control over one's life. Of course she herself was not yet worldly-wise enough to have such asperations, being merely a debutant. She hoped not to become a widow. 

"I have been very excited." Eleanor agreed. "And nervous," she admitted, "but the latter has largely proven unfounded. I am so very glad that I was sent and that Lord Grey agreed to be my guardian whilst here." She'd taken breakfast with Uncle Henry that very morning, after his success last night, and he was such a dear, if in desperate need of organising. As she stopped to take in the heady scent of a flowering orange tree, the thought gave her pause. She knew that one of the reasons for her debut - for any young girl at court - was to meet eligible young men in the hope that a suitable fellow might enquire of her father for her hand, and her mother had told her that Henry Grey was in need of a wife. What if Eleanor's mother was subtly trying to set her daughter up with the Baron of Codnor Castle? Henry wasn't actually her uncle, they were distant cousins of some degree with a couple of removes thrown in; there was nothing to stop them actually pairing. And she had grown quite fond of the man...

Her thoughtful gaze fell on the Italian princess. No, Eleanor rather suspected that both she and Henry could do better for themselves; but she decided that if they did not, then she could probably be quite happy marrying Henry Grey. He seemed gentle and kind, and after all, a simple suggestion and the offer of sorting out his costume for him had earned her an unlimited budget at the haberdashery. Which she would not abuse, but she would have a few pearls on her dress. The very thought made her tingle. And she would ensure that he would have an elegantly appointed costume, and be worthy of his trust.

But the young ladies' thoughts fell to other eligible men, and one rather charming young man in particular. Eleanor giggled a little when Maria assured her that her mother was quite formidable. "I imagine she might get along with my mother then." She all but whispered, amused. Possibly like a house on fire - flames, explosions, people screaming - but get along, never the less. "It is so comforting to have a strong mother to look after us." She mused. And Maria could see the need, noting that Langdon was very appealing. "He is," she agreed, "and he's a good storyteller." She revealed, thinking that Maria might enjoy his tales of Tintagel. "Ask him about the castle on his estate. But I shall be careful." She had resolved that, and her chaperone Mary would look after her too. "Still, if you see us speaking together alone, please do come and join us. I would not choose to be alone with him." 

 

Edited June 26 by Eleanor Bayning

[Aria]

“I’m envious of your talent for embroidery. It would be nice to do it myself instead of relying on my dressmaker. She is highly trained and skilled at needlework, but sometimes the result is not exactly what I envisioned, even when I draw my own designs.”

 

Maria understood Mistress Bayning’s love of flowers. “I adore flowers too. Do you have an interest in gardening? My estate has a large one, but it has been neglected. I hired a gardener to redesign it. It’s going to be magnificent. Maybe you can visit me when it’s done.” It would take a couple of years before it reached its full glory. “Your uncle is welcome as well.”

 

Her smile broadened. “I would love to have a sister like you too.” She wasn’t certain how old Eleanor was, but since she was debuting this year, she was most likely a few years younger than Maria. The Italian princess had always wanted a younger sister. She’d had a younger brother but he had passed away when she was six. Her older brother had died not long afterward, leaving her parents with only two daughters.

 

“I’m a bit nervous myself. This is my first season at the English court. I’m afraid that some courtiers will snub me because I’m a foreigner.” Mistress Bayning and Lord Langdon had been very welcoming, but did they represent the rule or the exception?

 

Maria laughed. “I think I would like your mother. Mine plans on returning to Italy after the christening. She says she needs to keep my brother-in-law in line. She’ll do it too. But if our mothers are at court at the same time, we should introduce them to each other.”

 

Eleanor seemed impressed with Lord Langdon’s storytelling skills. Maria would definitely ask him about his castle later today. “I will,” she promised. Her friend seemed a lot more vulnerable and idealistic than she was. She would protect her as best she could from predatory gentleman.

 

“Have you met any other intriguing gentlemen yet?” If she knew who they were and contrived to meet them herself, she could assess their intentions toward ladies. Maria was a good judge of character.

 

[Eleanor Bayning]

Eleanor understood Maria's frustration after a fashion, though she tended to have the problem in reverse. "Sometimes I can't explain the design that I can see in my mind's eye; I just have to sew it myself." She said quietly. Often it was just easier, as well as enjoyable, to do her own embroidery. "If I can help at all with realising a design, do ask." She added. It was something that she could do for a friend.

"Do you paint flowers?" Eleanor asked, when Maria revealed her equal love for them. That's what Eleanor had wanted to do, and her inability had frustrated her. So she embroidered them instead. Did she have an interest in gardening? "I do." She smiled. "Sometimes I help my mother with the planning of the gardens at Honingham Hall, but I would love to have gardens of my own to design one day." Just imagine; she could plant all the flowers that she loved. "How wonderful to have the chance to landscape your estate to your liking." She enthused. "I would love to see your garden when it is realised." If Maria shared her passion for flowers, surely it couldn't help but be beautiful. And maybe Henry would find it restful. Certainly up on the Cumbrian coast wouldn't have too much light for his observations, such as he complained of in London?

Sometimes it was difficult, being the eldest child, especially with a considerable age gap. It was a lot of responsibility. Eleanor mused that it might have been nice to have an older sister to look up to, even as Maria expressed her desire for a sister too. "Then let us be as sisters." She said boldly, linking her arm with the other woman's in a conspiritorial manner. She might be the younger but she was at least on home soil. "And I shall not let them snub you. You are wonderful, and if I see you alone at events, why I shall scoop you up and introduce you to suitable people." She declared, emboldened by Maria's confidence of her own nerves. In Eleanor's somewhat idealistic eyes the Italian princess had nothing to be nervous of.

"If our mothers are ever at court at the same time we shall definitely introduce them. And if ever you are bored during recess," or lonely "I know that you would be most welcome at Honingham Hall. Then I could show you our gardens." The thought of strolling through the gardens of home with Maria and chatting about anything and nothing was a warm and welcome one.

Had she met any other gentlemen? "At the Reception I met Marquess Mountjoy, the Solicitor General, and a most proper fellow, my uncle assures me. His lady wife is most senior in Her Majesty's household." Alas but the man was married. "He in turn introduced me to a Lord Kingston - alas only briefly as he was called away - whom he described as Buckingham's protegee." Which sounded terribly important. "My uncle says that he is His Grace's cousin." And presumably eligible as Lord Grey hadn't said otherwise. Were she and Maria in competition for young men? Perhaps but it seemed that there were a few to go around so it didn't feel that way to Eleanor. Rather she felt they were allies in the same cause. "What about yourself?"

Edited July 11 by Eleanor Bayning

[Aria]

Mistress Bayning’s offer was sweet. “I may take you up on that. And if you want to test out a design on paper first, I’ll be happy to draw it for you.” Maria had heard that a garment would be ruined if the stitches were removed. If a design was sketched first, it was possible to change it or add to it before beginning to embroider. Or maybe her friend was able to draw but not paint.

 

“Yes, I paint flowers. They’re one of my favorite subjects. I’m not very good at portraits.” She chuckled. “For some reason, I can’t quite get the facial features right. The eyes might be too small or the nose too big, or the other way around. I often set up my own still life scenes, though sometimes I like to paint flowers in a natural setting. I also enjoy painting wildlife.”

 

And they had gardening in common as well. “My own mother had no interest in gardening. I learned by following the gardeners around and asking questions. They were probably annoyed with me but they never showed it.” Maria grinned. “Make sure you marry a gentlemen with lots of land around his estate. Even if it doesn’t have a garden, you can create one. Or better yet, make him buy you an estate of your own.”

 

Her dark eyes sparkled with delight when Mistress Bayning looped arms with her. “I’d like that.” Not many people called her wonderful in Italy. “And you are quite splendid yourself. You are just the kind of sister I wish I had. Of course, I would appreciate some introductions, and I shall do the same if I meet a courtier than you don’t know. Together, we will take the court by storm.”

 

They continued their stroll arm in arm. “I would love to visit your home. Maybe during one recess you can visit me and during another, I can visit you. And eventually we can go to Mantua together.” Maria had not planned on returning to Italy when the season ended, but now she was considering it so that she could buy some brocade and beads for her friend.

 

“You’ve made some important people already. That’s quite impressive. So far, Lord Langdon is the only gentleman I’ve met. I hope they’re all as charming as he is.”

 

[Eleanor Bayning]

"Perhaps you and I could have an outing one day, if there is time. We shall go and find ourselves a quiet spot with some flowers; you can paint and I can sew. We could even take a picnic." She suggested. It sounded like a lovely way to spend an afternoon, to her mind. She wondered whether any other ladies might be interested in joining them? 

Eleanor giggled when Maria told her to ensure that her future husband had an estate with lots of land suitable for a garden, or even to buy her one of her own. "So he must be young, landed and rich?" She teased with cheeky little smile half hidden by her fan. "Shall we say handsome and titled as well?" Oh but that was the challenge wasn't it? To marry as well as possible. Her father she knew set a great deal of importance on a title - perhaps because the Baynings were only three generations enobled themselves. Her mother - and uncle Henry - from the ancient and rambling Grey line, had cautioned that titles came and went, but land and wealth were what maintained the family. Eleanor knew that she was neither a stand-out in terms of wealth and breeding like Maria, nor a nothing like some Baronet's daughter. She would have to use her wit and charm to stand out. 

But she was not alone, she already had allies and one very fond friend. "Thank you." She said earnestly, as Maria agreed that they should be as sisters, and promised to provide her with introductions in turn. "We will indeed." For what force at court could refuse two charming and determined young ladies? The prospect of facing events and the like with not only Henry but now Maria at her side made the whole seem that much brighter. 

"Oh I should like that very much." Eleanor breathed, as Maria suggested that they could visit each other and one day travel to Mantua together. "Once I get home I shall ask mother - I'm certain she will agree - and then I shall write to you. The autumn stays clement quite late at our estates." She was certain that Maria would enjoy it. Her new friend had said that her mother was returning to Italy after the season, but did that mean her mysterious cousin would be staying on? She supposed she would find out. 

Maria expressed the hope that all the gentlemen she had met were as charming as Lord Langdon. "All the gentlemen that I have met so far have been." She assured her friend. "I am sure they will be, and you shall just win them over, as you have me." Who wouldn't like Maria? Smiling as they walked arm in arm, Eleanor spotted that particularly fascinating curiosity up ahead. "Oooh, come and see the Pine Apple!" 

OOC: Shall we wrap up, since they're continuing at the Yacht Race? Thank you for a very enjoyable thread. 

[Aria]

“That sounds wonderful!” Maria adored the idea of having a picnic with her new friend. “I brought my cook with me and I can provide the food. I’ll even include some Italian fare so you can try it.”

 

She laughed at Mistress Bayning’s description of the perfect husband. “Si, he must be all those things. You deserve the best.” Maria envied Eleanor for having so much to look forward to as a young lady just beginning her journey through life.  Though probably only a few years older, she felt positively ancient in comparison, perhaps because by the time she was Eleanor’s age, she had been through so much sorrow and heartache. Hopefully, her friend would be spared any kind of pain.

 

They spoke of visiting each other at their estates and corresponding after the season was over. “I shall write to you too, whether I remain in England or return to Mantua for a few months.” And it seemed that there were plenty of handsome and charming gentlemen at court. “I do hope so,” she replied when Mistress Bayning claimed she would win everyone over.

 

The chattered happily as they went to view the pineapple, a plant that didn’t even grow in Italy. While it had been frustrating at the time, Maria was glad she had gotten lost in the palace hallways. She had met two fascinating people, and one was already a good friend.

 

~finis~