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Chapter 1
Posted on 2014-10-22
Sir Walter Elliot, of Kellynch-hall, in Somersetshire, was a man who, for his own amusement, never took up any book but the Baronetage; there he found occupation for an idle hour, and consolation in a distressed one; there his faculties were roused into admiration and respect, by contemplating the limited remnant of the earliest patents; there any unwelcome sensations, arising from domestic affairs, changed naturally into pity and contempt, as he turned over the almost endless creations of the last century-and there, if every other leaf were powerless, he could read his own history with an interest which never failed-this was the page at which the favorite volume always opened:
ELLIOT OF KELLYNCH-HALL.
Walter Elliot, born March 1, 1760, married, July 15, 1784, Elizabeth, daughter of Sir James Stevenson, of South Park, in the county of Gloucester, by which lady (who died 1800) he has issue Elizabeth, born June 1, 1785; Anne, born August 9, 1787; a still-born son, November 5, 1789; Mary, born November 20, 1791.
Precisely such had the paragraph originally stood from the printer's hands; but Sir Walter had improved it, for the information of himself and his family, by inserting most accurately the day of the month on which he had lost his wife.
Then followed the history and rise of the ancient and respectable family, in the usual terms: how it had been first settled in Cheshire; how mentioned in Dugdale-serving the office of High Sheriff, representing a borough in three successive parliaments, exertions of loyalty, and dignity of baronet, in the first year of Charles II, with all the Marys and Elizabeths they had married; forming altogether two handsome duodecimo pages, and concluding with the arms and motto: "Principal seat, Kellynch Hall, in the county of Somerset," and Sir Walter's handwriting again in this finale:
Heir presumptive, William Walter Elliot, Esq., great grandson of the second Sir Walter.
Vanity was the beginning and the end of Sir Walter Elliot's character; vanity of person and of situation. He had been remarkably handsome in his youth; and, at almost forty-six, was still a very fine man. Few women could think more of their personal appearance than he did, nor could the valet of any new made lord be more delighted with the place he held in society. He considered the blessing of beauty as inferior only to the blessing of a baronetcy; and the Sir Walter Elliot, who united these gifts, was the constant object of his warmest respect and devotion.
His good looks and his rank had one fair claim on his attachment; since to them he must have owed a wife of very superior character to anything deserved by his own. Lady Elliot had been an excellent woman, sensible and amiable; whose judgment and conduct, if they might be pardoned the youthful infatuation which made her Lady Elliot, had never required indulgence afterwards. She had humored, or softened, or concealed his failings, and promoted his real respectability for almost seventeen years; and though not the very happiest being in the world herself, had found enough in her duties, her friends, and her children, to attach her to life, and make it no matter of indifference to her when she was called on to quit them. Three girls, the two eldest fifteen and thirteen, was an awful legacy for a mother to bequeath; an awful charge rather, to confide to the authority and guidance of a conceited, silly father. She had, however, one very intimate friend, a sensible, deserving woman, who had been brought, by strong attachment to herself, to settle close by her, in the village of Kellynch; and on her kindness and advice, Lady Elliot mainly relied for the best help and maintenance of the good principles and instruction which she had been anxiously giving her daughters. Her own family was too far away to offer much help.
This friend, and Sir Walter, did not marry, whatever might have been anticipated on that head by their acquaintance. Nearly six years had passed away since Lady Elliot's death, and they were still near neighbors and intimate friends, and one remained a widower, the other a widow.
That Lady Russell, of steady age and character, and extremely well provided for, should have no thought of a second marriage, needs no apology to the public, which is rather apt to be unreasonably discontented when a woman does marry again, than when she does not; but Sir Walter's continuing in singleness requires explanation. Be it known then, that Sir Walter, like a good father, (having met with one or two private disappointments in very unreasonable applications) prided himself on remaining single for his dear daughters' sake. For one daughter, his eldest, he would really have given up anything, which he had not been very much tempted to do. Elizabeth had succeeded, at nearly sixteen, to all that was possible, of her mother's rights and consequence; and being very handsome, and very like himself, and they had gone on together most happily. His two other children were of very inferior value. Mary was still a schoolgirl; but Anne, with an elegance of mind and sweetness of character, which must have placed her high with any people of real understanding, was nobody with either father or sister; her word had no weight, her convenience was always to give way; she was only Anne.
To Lady Russell, indeed, she was a most dear and highly valued god-daughter, favorite, and friend. Lady Russell loved them all; but it was only in Anne that she could fancy the mother to revive again.
At eighteen, Anne Elliot was a very pretty girl, but her father had found little to admire in her, (so totally different were her delicate features and mild dark eyes from his own.) He had never indulged much hope of ever reading her name in any other page of his favorite work. All equality of alliance must rest with Elizabeth; Mary might connect herself with an old country family of respectability and large fortune which would rather confer favor; Elizabeth would, one day or other, marry suitably.
Elizabeth did not quite equal her father in personal contentment. Over five years had seen her mistress of Kellynch Hall, presiding and directing with a self-possession and decision which could never have given the idea of her being younger than she was. For five years had she been doing the honors, and laying down the domestic law at home, and leading the way to the chaise and four, and walking immediately after Lady Russell out of all the drawing-rooms and dining-rooms in the country. Five winters' revolving frosts had seen her opening every ball of credit which a scanty neighborhood afforded; and five springs shown their blossoms, as she travelled up to London with her father, for a few weeks annual enjoyment of the great world. She had the remembrance of all this; she had the consciousness of being almost one-and-twenty, to give her some regrets and some apprehensions. She was fully satisfied of being still quite as handsome as ever; but she felt her approach to the years of danger, and would have rejoiced to be certain of being properly solicited by baronet-blood within the next twelvemonth or two. Then might she again take up the book of books with as much enjoyment as in her early youth; but now she liked it not. Always to be presented with the date of her own birth, and see no marriage follow made the book an evil; and more than once, when her father had left it open on the table near her, had she closed it, with averted eyes, and pushed it away.
She had had a disappointment, moreover, which that book, and especially the history of her own family, must ever present the remembrance of. The heir presumptive, the very William Walter Elliot, Esq., whose rights had been so generously supported by her father, had disappointed her.
She had, while a very young girl, as soon as she had known him to be, in the event of her having no brother, the future baronet, meant to marry him; and her father had always meant that she should. He had not been known to them as a boy, but soon after Lady Elliot's death, Sir Walter had sought the acquaintance, and though his overtures had not been met with any warmth, he had persevered in seeking it, making allowance for the modest drawing back of youth; and in one of their spring excursions to London, when Elizabeth was in her first bloom, Mr. Elliot had been forced into the introduction.
He was at that time a very young man, just engaged in the study of the law; and Elizabeth found him extremely agreeable, and every plan in his favor was confirmed. He was invited to Kellynch Hall; he was talked of and expected all the rest of the year; but he never came. The following spring he was seen again in town, found equally agreeable, again encouraged, invited and expected, and again he did not come; and the next tidings were that he was married. Instead of pushing his fortune in the line marked out for the heir of the house of Elliot, he had purchased independence by uniting himself to a rich woman of inferior birth.
Sir Walter has resented it. As the head of the house, he felt that he ought to have been consulted, especially after taking the young man so publicly by the hand: "For they must have been seen together," he observed, "once at Tattersal's, and twice in the lobby of the House of Commons." His disapprobation was expressed, but apparently very little regarded. Mr. Elliot had attempted no apology, and shown himself as unsolicitous of being longer noticed by the family, as Sir Walter considered him unworthy of it: all acquaintance between them had ceased.
This very awkward history of Mr. Elliot was still, after an interval of only a couple of years, felt with anger by Elizabeth, who had liked the man for himself, and still more for being her father's heir, and whose strong family pride could see only in him, a proper match for Sir Walter Elliot's eldest daughter. There was not a baronet from A to Z, whom her feelings could have so willingly acknowledged as an equal.
Such were Elizabeth Elliot's sentiments and sensations; such the cares to alloy, the agitations to vary, the sameness and the elegance, the prosperity and the nothingness of her scene of life and such the feelings to give interest to a long, uneventful residence in one country circle, to fill the vacancies which there were no habits of utility abroad, no talents or accomplishments for home, to occupy.
Chapter 2
1806 began as the previous year had ended, with little possibility for change on the horizon. It was cold and drafty at Kellynch as the winter storms roared across the landscape. Monotony was to be expected as Elizabeth was never energetic about entertaining in the winter. She much resembled a bear who chose to hibernate when the cold weather approached. Hosting winter visitors was too much trouble as they required far more interaction and entertainment than visitors at other times of the year.
Anne found a monotonous routine during the winter. In the morning, she would write to her sister Mary who was away in school, and would visit with Lady Russell. After the visit, she would write more letters, usually to her grandmother, her aunts and her cousins. These letters helped lift her spirits when she found her very presence ignored by her father and sister. She would write daily, then send the letter at the end of the week. Later in the day, she would visit tenants and supply what she could to some who might be in need. She would also visit families of the surrounding villages performing charity work under the direction of the local curates. She visited Kellynch, Monkford, or Uppercross almost daily as so many were in want that difficult winter. She spent a great deal of the rest of her time playing the piano and reading. She would not admit it even to herself, but she was desperately lonely. Elizabeth and her father acted as if she were not even present in the house.
Elizabeth would sleep late, break her fast and then idle through the rest of the morning. In the afternoon, she and her father would occasionally make calls. They might invite Anne if she were present in the house. If she was about her charitable works, they would forget about her and go on their way. Sometimes these visits would include a stay for dinner or cards. They never thought to inform Anne that they were not returning for dinner. On these occasions, she would eat alone.
Very rarely, the Eliots would reciprocate and invite the neighbors for dinner and cards. Although she did not play cards, Anne enjoyed these days for the variety they gave. There was not much diversion for Elizabeth in Kellynch as she could not entertain herself well. Therefore, in the spring, Elizabeth and Sir Walter would make a trip to London for a few weeks. Here she hoped to cultivate an admiration that would lead to an offer of marriage. Both required change as they had so few resources to keep themselves busy and entertained.
Anne had never been invited on this trip during the late season. In winter, such entertainment as she saw, where Elizabeth was hostess, was very limited. Elizabeth did not like the bother of dealing with house guests in winter. The occasional dinner or card party were the only entertainments Elizabeth would provide. The spring trip to London was all that was required for entertainment in spring. It was talked of all summer, so only the occasional card party or dinner occurred in summer.
During the autumn, Kellynch would host at least a few shooting parties as an enticement to possible suitors for Elizabeth. The shooting parties the previous fall had not included any interesting single men. Those that were invited were all of 'noble' blood as that was where Elizabeth was searching for her husband. Her father's requirements for Elizabeth were simple: the man must be handsome and titled. He had no requirements for Anne as he did not expect her to attract anyone. Anne hoped for someone who had intelligent conversation and could appreciate her. None of the shooting party members were ever intelligent. Unfortunately for Anne, the only intelligent conversation came from Lady Russell and a few of the local families with whom they occasionally dined.
School had been heart wrenching for Anne. She was sent there directly after the death of her much-loved mother. Elizabeth had succeeded to the role of hostess and had eschewed any further need for education. Mary was also sent away to school although still full young for it. Had Anne not had letters from Lady Russell and her extended family, she was not sure she would have survived the experience. She had done her best to assist Mary, but felt that had been a losing battle as their schools were in different cities. Her father had allowed Anne and Mary to visit the family at South Park during summer break, but since finishing school when she was still sixteen, Anne had not seen them. The previous year had seemed an eternity.
This particular day in January, everything changed when Anne received an invitation from her grandmother. Her grandmother, Lady Rachel Stevenson, wanted her to come spend the rest of the winter as her companion. She lived in the dower house at South Park near her son, Sir Michael, and his family. She had finally recovered from a long illness during the autumn and would welcome Anne's company.
Upon reading the letter, Anne headed directly to the drawing room, hoping to find her father. She eagerly shared the contents of her letter.
"Father, Grandmother has invited me to spend the rest of the winter with her at South Park. If you are agreeable, she will send her carriage to collect me on Tuesday next."
While Sir Walter considered, Elizabeth asked, "Why would you want to go there? There is nothing to see or do in South Park."
"I will be able to see our cousin and visit with our grandmother. I need nothing more."
Sir Walter responded, "I do not see why you should not go. We shall not miss you. You must give her our regards."
Elizabeth added, "How very boring you are. You cannot take our maid with you though, you know. I cannot do without her."
"Grandmother is sending one to assist me. You needn't worry."
Elizabeth returned her attention to the fashion magazine she had been perusing. Sir Walter turned his back to the mirror, examining the cut of his coat.
Anne sighed at the truth in these responses and immediately left to write her acceptance. It was true, they would not miss her. It was as if she were a ghost in her own home. Everything that Anne enjoyed doing, Elizabeth found boring. Anne retired to her room to write her acceptance. Rather than return to the parlor, she headed to the music room. Anne spent the next hour escaping through the music of Mozart. His cheerful music was a balm to her heart.
Anne spent the remaining days packing her winter clothing and preparing for the visit. She bade farewell to the various tenants and charity cases she helped as well as the three curates. Since she shared a lady's maid with Elizabeth, her grandmother was sending one to accompany her on the trip. She was happy that she would not need to travel alone.
On her final visit with Lady Russell, as she wrapped herself warmly, she said, "I will miss you but think it will be far more pleasant in Gloucester even if it is further north and possibly colder. I do not think Father or Elizabeth will even realize I am gone. Please be sure to write me. I will want to know all that is going on."
Lady Russell agreed with Anne, "I am sad to say that I believe you are correct about your father. I do not understand him at all. However, I will miss you as will the people you've been visiting in the surrounding villages. Have a wonderful time with your relatives."
The carriage and luggage wagon arrived early Monday afternoon with Sally, the maid Lady Rachel had sent to assist her. Sally verified that all was well with Anne's trunks, then saw that they were loaded into the wagon which immediately started back to Gloucester. The carriage driver was housed in the carriage house so that they could make an early start the next morning. Sally stayed with the rest of the servants in the house that night.
Anne awoke early and Sally assisted her in dressing. Anne found breakfast waiting for her in the breakfast room while Sally headed to the kitchen for her own meal. For once, Sir Walter had risen early, and joined Anne at table. "Good morning Father."
"Ah, glad I caught you before you left. All set, then?" asked Sir Walter as he heaped items on his plate.
"Yes. I shall leave as soon as I have finished eating."
"You must give my regards to your grandmother and the rest of the Stevensons. It appears you will have fine weather."
"Yes, this morning looks quite fine."
They continued eating in silence for a few minutes. As Anne was finishing her last bit, Elizabeth walked in with a yawn. "Oh good. You have not left yet. Give everyone my regards." She nodded at Anne and poured herself a cup of tea and took a piece of toast to the table.
"Thank you both. I shall miss you."
Both nodded at her as she arose and looked at them sadly. She then smiled and left the room. The housekeeper, Mrs. Warner, came to say farewell accompanied by Sally. Sally helped her into her wraps and pulled her own on. Mrs. Warner said, "I know this isn't seemly, but" and she reached over and gave Anne a hug. "I will miss you Miss Anne. Please be careful."
Anne returned the hug and said, "This will be our secret." Sally and Anne then left the foyer and entered the carriage. Anne was happy to be on her way.
Chapter 3
Posted on 2014-10-29
Anne and Sally had a little conversation at the start of the journey. However, Anne had slept poorly due to her excitement, so shortly after one break, she fell asleep. Sally woke her shortly before they reached the estate.
Anne arrived at South Park late in the afternoon. Shortly after they turned into the lane leading to the main house, they took a side lane that led to the dower house. After a relatively short drive, they arrived in the courtyard in front of the house. As they pulled up, a footman exited the main door and descended the stairs. He helped Anne and Sally from the carriage. Anne mounted the steps to the house to find her grandmother waiting for her in the entry way, while Sally collected the items with which they had traveled and went around to the servants' entrance.
With a hug, Lady Rachel said, "My darling girl. It is so good to see you again. How was the ride?"
Anne rested into the hug for a moment, then pulling back replied, "The ride was fine. I am glad we did not have to manage any rain or snow. Thank you for sending Sally to assist me. I like her. She was good company. Father and Elizabeth send their regards. I am so glad to see you."
"Did they really send their regards?" she asked with skepticism in her voice.
"Yes, really. Both were present at breakfast and specifically said to pass on regards," Anne responded with a smile.
"Yes, they care so much they can never be bothered to write. However, that is neither here nor there. Come in and warm up with a cup of tea before you go to your room to clean off the dust of travel." And Lady Rachel ushered her into her personal parlor where tea was waiting.
In 1752, at age eighteen, Lady Rachel Stanley, a younger daughter of the Earl, had married James Stevenson, Baronet, of South Park. Over the course of time, she gave birth to James, Michael, Hugh, Susan, and Elizabeth. James, Junior had died within days of his birth.
Sir James had died shortly after Lady Elliot, leaving Sir Michael in charge of South Park. At that time, Lady Rachel had moved into the dower house. Her younger son Hugh had moved to London to practice law as a barrister many years earlier. Susan had become Lady Derby through marriage to William Stanley, the Earl of Derby, a great-nephew of Lady Rachel's. Susan and her family lived in Lancashire at Derby Hall. Elizabeth, of course, had become Lady Elliot.
The family tree for South Park is as follows:
James Stevenson, Baronet, m Lady Rachel Stanley in 1752
As they sat in the parlor, Lady Rachel poured tea and handed Anne a plate of biscuits from which to choose. They were all Anne's favorites and seldom appeared in Kellynch. This was just another example of the consideration of Lady Rachel versus that of Elizabeth as hostess. Mrs. Warner supplied them when she could, but seldom in the parlor. "I am glad you were able to get away to come keep me company. Illness has been so bothersome. I am glad to be feeling better. James has been away in London visiting Hugh this winter. I think he is courting someone and has plans to marry, although it is not yet official. Percy finishes at Cambridge this spring. Agatha is here for you to visit with though, so we are not totally without young people."
"It is always pleasant to spend time with Agatha. And how are Uncle and Aunt?"
"They are doing well. They have invited us to a late dinner today. They look forward to seeing you almost as much as I," said Lady Rachel with a laugh. The contrast between South Park and Kellynch was striking. At Kellynch, Anne was of no importance to anyone. At South Park, she was valued by all.
"Then I shall finish my tea and go change into something more appropriate for dinner with a baronet," joked Anne. Sir Michael Stevenson was the complete opposite of Sir Walter Eliot in judging by appearances. Sir Michael greatly appreciated the company of Anne and fairly despised the shallowness of both Sir Walter and Elizabeth. He was still unsure of Mary, but she had seemed to be following her father's direction when she had visited last.
Anne exited the parlor and headed up to her room. She was in a sunny room facing south, always warm and inviting. It was also a stark contrast to her north facing room in Kellynch which always seemed dark and cold during the winter. During the summer, her room in the dower house overlooked a lovely cutting garden which supplied the dower house with a full complement of flowers during the season.
Anne saw that Sally had already completed the unpacking and was ironing wrinkles from one or two of her gowns. She said, "Sally, thank you for taking care of me. You have already done a wonderful job of unpacking things. If you could take care of that gown," pointing to one in the pile awaiting a refresh, "and help me into it, I will take myself away and allow you to finish unhindered."
Sally touched up the indicated gown, then helped Anne to change and helped arrange her hair. "You look quite lovely, Miss Anne," she commented.
Anne blushed slightly and replied, "Thank you Sally." She gathered up a wrap, since the day was quite cold, and returned to her grandmother in the parlor.
Lady Rachel said, "Ah, there you are. We can head up to the main house then. I do like you in that rose, it is a good choice for you." As she said, this, she shepherded Anne into the foyer and into her wraps. They then entered the carriage for the ride up to the house. In summer, Anne would often walk the short distance, but in winter, it was too uncomfortable. While in generally good health, Lady Rachel, just turned 72, no longer engaged in such strenuous exercise in winter. She might stroll around the grounds in summer, but she chose not to fight the winter winds or snow. And the illness she had battled all fall had left her weaker than usual although she chose not to make mention of that.
The welcome at the main house was as warm as that in the dower house. Where her own sister Elizabeth was cool and aloof, her cousin Agatha was excited to see her. "Anne, you are looking remarkably well. It has been an age since we have seen you. Have you met anyone interesting lately? Father managed to invite some wonderful people here in the fall. I hope to meet with them again when I go to town in March."
Anne replied, "I am sorry to say that Father and Elizabeth never manage to invite interesting people. You must tell me about the ones you met. Where will you stay when you go in March?"
"There were one or two men that I might like to know better, and at least one other young woman of our age. Uncle Hugh has offered to have mother and me stay with them for March and April so that I may be presented at court. You have not been presented have you?"
"That is very kind of them. No, I have not. I do not go to London like Father and Elizabeth do. However, I do not mind. The society of their friends is not very stimulating."
Listening in on the conversation, Lady Matilda broke in, "Nonsense. We must include you in our plans for March and April. I can easily sponsor both of you, and as Elizabeth's child, we really should ensure that you are presented. Mother, don't you agree?"
Lady Rachel responded, "Yes, I do. And that is wonderfully kind of you Matilda." To Anne she said, "Knowing your father as I do, I know he will not object unless there are expenses he must defray. Therefore, I will see to those for you. I had planned to join them in town before the presentation in April after I sent you back home. I had forgotten that you have not had your curtsey or turn in town. You should have gone last year when you left school. We will just keep you longer and go on into town before you go home again."
Anne was almost speechless at such an idea. She finally managed, "I cannot thank you enough. That will be quite exciting. I had never thought of such a thing."
Agatha said, "Oh, do come. We can have such fun times together."
Lady Matilda added, "We would love to have you join us. I am sure your other uncle and aunt would enjoy your visit as well."
Anne answered, "Of course I will come if Father agrees."
Lady Rachel said, "I am sure he will agree. I will write to him first thing tomorrow."
Sir Michael added, "Your father will be no trouble. One way or another, we will bring you along with us. As payment, will you play some of that Beethoven for us after dinner? Agatha finds him too ponderous and refuses to humor me."
Agatha laughed and said, "Father, it isn't that I won't play him for you. I simply cannot do him justice. It never sounds quite right."
Anne replied, "I will do what I can. I believe I have mastered two or three numbers you will enjoy."
Shortly after this, dinner was served and all moved into the dining room. As was often the case when she visited South Park, Anne contrasted this happy meal with the often sullen silences at Kellynch. If Elizabeth was bored, dinner was often strained with little conversation. No subject Anne selected interested her father. He would often retreat into an examination of himself in the mirror facing his chair. Dinner at home was a time to get through as quickly as possible.
The opposite was true at South Park. Both Lady Rachel and Lady Matilda were excellent conversationalists. They easily included the entire table in all topics of conversation. Discussion ranged from the weather and travel Anne had just experienced to a new book they were reading together to politics and the war. To Anne, it was as if her entire body was re-awakening from the stasis that Kellynch inspired. She wished she might stay always, then felt guilty for wanting to leave her family. Of course, they did not seem to want or need her at Kellynch, so she should not feel guilty about wanting to be elsewhere.
Since Sir Michael was the only gentleman present for dinner, they dispensed with the separation of the sexes. He escorted Anne to the parlor and straight to the piano. He smiled and bowed as he left her. "I am sure we have something here you can play for us," he remarked as he settled himself into his favorite chair.
Anne laughed. "I see at least two of his sonatas that I can play for you. But then, you must allow for something lighter. I will spend some time working on some of his other pieces for you and you can listen while I practice if you want."
Sir Michael said, "I will content myself with enjoying it when you perform for us, my dear. No need to disconcert you as you perfect the piece."
Agatha said, "I will take you up on that offer though, as I think you might help me master these."
Anne said, "I will be glad to assist if I can."
She then spent the next half hour playing for her relatives. They listened attentively and thanked her when she was done. This too contrasted with Kellynch as neither Sir Walter nor Elizabeth particularly appreciated music. It was merely a background for socializing. When there was no socializing to be done, there was no need for music. They never listened closely in any case and never appreciated the skill required to present it. Elizabeth had not bothered to learn as it required more effort than she gave to anything. She had had her share of lessons when younger, but would not practice. Lady Elliot had always despaired of her daughter's failure to acquire anything approaching true refinement.
Lady Rachel then said, "I am afraid we need to head back to the dower house. You are welcome to steal Anne away for the morning if you wish as I must make a few calls."
Agatha answered, "Please drop her here on your way out. She and I have a lot of catching up to do."
Anne smiled as her grandmother responded, "Yes, I can see that you must. Expect her in the morning, then."
They wrapped up warmly and entered the carriage for the ride down the drive to the dower house. The wind had come up and the cold had deepened. They were glad to get into the house and warm up again. Again Anne contrasted the warmth of the dower house with the cold draftiness of Kellynch and was glad for the companionship of her grandmother.
The two had a quiet supper together and spent the evening reading peacefully by the fire. By evening's end, Anne had caught up to the rest in the book they were discussing at dinner. She had found it fascinating and looked forward to discussing it with the rest of the family.
Early the next morning, Lady Rachel considered carefully before she wrote her letter to Sir Walter. She wrote:
South Park, GloucestershireJanuary 1806
Sir Walter,
Thank you once again for allowing Anne to spend her winter here with me. Her company is a great boon to a lonely old woman. Since I know how very busy you and Elizabeth are with your many social engagements, I would like to beg you to allow me to keep her with me until May. I may visit Hugh and could really use her assistance on my travel. I will, of course, underwrite all necessary expenses associated with her attendance with me.
Yours,
Lady Rachel Stevenson
She posted the letter before paying her calls. While Lady Rachel paid some long overdue calls, Anne spent the morning with Agatha. The cousins had a great deal in common although Agatha was far livelier and more confident than Anne. They had a wonderful time visiting. Agatha talked of her new friend, Millicent, who had attended one of the fall shooting parties. Millicent had been presented the previous season and was being courted by at least one young man. She also mentioned the two men she hoped to know better, one of whom was Millicent's brother. She thought they might be worth encouraging and would see them when she was in town in March.
Finally, the two girls retired to the music room for practice on the piano. They spent the greater part of the day trying to help Agatha master one of the Beethoven sonatas for her father. They both felt satisfied with the headway they were able to make that day.
The next day, the Stevenson family hosted a number of neighbors for dinner and cards. Anne had met most of them on her previous visits and was glad to renew acquaintances. Most were far more interesting dinner companions than either Elizabeth or Sir Walter. Anne was having a wonderful time.
Chapter 4
Within a few days, Sir Walter replied back with his approval. He mentioned that, as he and Elizabeth would be in town in April, perhaps they would see one another while there and that Anne could return to Kellynch with them. Lady Rachel was satisfied that she would have Anne until late April.
The rest of January and February followed a similar pattern. Anne and Lady Rachel would often make calls on neighbors. Anne would spend some days visiting with Agatha and the two would practice piano together. On stormy days, everyone stayed home where they usually read, sometimes together in the main house, at others in their separate homes. Neighbors would pay calls at the dower house. The Stevensons would host occasional dinner and card parties. Winter was still a very busy social time at South Park in contrast to the quiet at Kellynch.
Sir Michael Stevenson was a very gregarious man. He loved having visitors and engaging in stimulating conversations. He loved South Park and was very interested in improving the property and increasing its value for the future generations. Lady Matilda was as gregarious as her husband. So, where Elizabeth Eliot found it bothersome to host friends and did so seldom, unless there was some possible benefit with regards to a suitor, the Stevensons loved to have friends over.
Because of all the visiting that still occurred in winter, the Stevensons also used a sleigh as a conveyance. This way, when snow covered the roads, they were not housebound. The sleigh often brought Anne and Lady Rachel up to the main house at the end of a storm or took them on visits to the neighbors. Agatha and Lady Matilda frequently joined these visits. The sleigh also brought neighbors to attend winter card parties.
At these card parties, Anne and Agatha took turns to provide background music. The company was such that they often quieted their conversations to better hear the music. On occasion, one of the other young ladies in the neighborhood might also perform. But as there were no young men present on any of these occasions, most preferred to play cards instead. Most of the eligible young men were off at university for the winter. Agatha also enjoyed cards, so Anne volunteered to be the musician for most of the afternoons of cards.
When they weren't entertaining, the ladies in the family would often spend wintery afternoons reading aloud to one another. Agatha liked to amuse them all by reading from a novel, using different voices for the different characters. Anne preferred reading poetry. Lady Rachel read them the newspapers. Lady Matilda read books about the war.
Sir Michael enjoyed studying the political situation from the quiet of South Park by reading a number of the papers. He was not one of those who limited what the ladies in the family read, so all were well informed about the situation of the wars. When it was Lady Rachel's turn to read to them, they ended up discussing the news.
They had a particularly lively discussion about the British victory at the Battle of Santo Domingo. Sir Michael thought it criminal that Duckworth had deserted his post at Cadiz to follow the French clear across the Atlantic. However, the victory at least would ensure British supremacy on the open seas for the foreseeable future. Lady Rachel disagreed, arguing that the French would continue to harass the British ships for at least the rest of the year, although she felt sure the British would ultimately triumph.
The two continued to argue about the naval victory until reports of the treaty between Prussia and Napoleon appeared at the beginning of March. With the crowning of Joseph Bonaparte as King of the Sicilies, discussion or argument turned to the ambitions of the Bonapartes and what that portended for the rest of Europe. The war with France declared in 1803 was merely a small portion of the larger conflict that Napoleon seemed set on. Part of this discussion was always what impact it would have on their friends as younger sons joined the service, usually in the cavalry. Younger sons of the tenants often enlisted as well, which could have a negative impact on labor on the estate.
Anne enjoyed these lively family debates. Sir Michael and Lady Rachel agreed more than they disagreed, but the debates helped her to form an opinion on what was happening. Lady Matilda did not participate as much, although there were times when her opinion offered a third alternative. Agatha would participate a little more often than her mother but also a little more tentatively. Anne mostly just listened although she did begin to really develop opinions. The war was never discussed at Kellynch. Anne had never heard her father offer any opinion on the war. Not even the battle of Trafalgar entered the conversation, while the battles of the previous year were frequent topics of conversation at South Park. The dinner parties expanded these discussions about the war and helped Anne discover how best to engage in such controversial conversations without giving offense.
The other major topic of discussion throughout February was the presentation for both Agatha and Anne. "Matilda, I think we should have both dresses made up while we are here. No sense waiting until we get to London. It isn't as if the style will change." This statement was made as Anne and Lady Rachel arrived at the main house one morning during the first week of the month.
"I think that's an excellent idea, Mother," replied Lady Matilda. "We can leave directly. No sense in putting it off." So Anne and Lady Rachel remained in their wraps while Lady Matilda and Agatha prepared to leave.
As it had been snowing overnight, they took the sleigh into the village. They pulled up at the dressmaker and were helped out of the carriage by their driver. As he took her hand, Lady Matilda directed, "You can head back home, Richards, and return to us in three hours." He nodded, and she turned and entered the shop.
"Mrs. Crouch, we would like to have presentation gowns made up for our girls here," began Lady Matilda with a nod toward her daughter and niece. "I am sure you have a suitable pattern."
"Give me one moment, and I can show you the handful of acceptable styles I have patterns for." Mrs. Crouch disappeared into a back room and returned with a small book. Each page in the book showed a picture of a presentation gown. Both girls found the styles very amusing and dated.
Lady Matilda said to them, "I agree the styles are quite dated. The good news is, we can have them altered afterwards and you can wear them throughout the spring. If you want to be accepted in the best circles, the presentation helps. It never hurts to have made your curtsy to the queen."
Lady Rachel added, "If you ever find yourself in conversation with someone trying to make you feel inadequate, this will give you something to remember to bolster your confidence. And if they are particularly unpleasant, ask them to share their own memories of their presentation. If they have been presented, they will probably have something amusing to say which might deflect them from their unpleasantness. If they have not, you can be very condescending as you commiserate with them on not having had the opportunity. You can then stress how very amusing it was as you and your cousin prepared together."
Added Lady Matilda, "That usually only happens with those trying to impress you with their supposed superiority. Those not presented trying to claw into higher status often are unpleasant that way. This usually puts them in their place without being nasty. That is a very highly regarded skill for any society hostess."
All laughed at the picture the two older women painted. Said Lady Rachel, "Elizabeth met Sir Walter the week after her presentation. She was still elated at how well it had gone when they met at a ball. She was actually wearing her presentation gown which had needed only slight modification in those days. He was immediately enchanted because she looked so beautiful. They made a splendid couple. He asked for her hand within just a few weeks."
Lady Matilda added, "You never know what might happen."
The four ladies studied the offered styles. Finally, Anne pointed a tentative finger at one and said, "I think I might like that one. I can picture how we can alter it for use in the future. It doesn't appear to be as hard to walk in as the others."
As they all considered it, Lady Rachel responded, "Very well. Mrs. Crouch, that will do for Anne."
Then, Agatha turned the page and pointed at a different one. "That isn't too bad. The skirt does seem a bit tighter than Anne's choice, but I do like the silhouette better."
Lady Matilda said, "I think that will look very well on you. Well, at least as well as any of these styles would." They all laughed.
This process had already consumed thirty minutes of their allotted time. As the book was put away, Mrs. Crouch determined that the next step would be to take all measurements required for these specific gowns. That took another thirty minutes. Much laughter ensued as some of the measuring also tickled.
For this part of the process, the final step was selecting materials. Mrs. Crouch had a very respectable supply of cloth. They immediately discounted the more mundane fabrics and concentrated on the finer ones. Mrs. Crouch offered suggestions based on the coloring of both girls, which was quite similar.
They finally selected fabrics that would flatter each girl, along with the appropriate contrasting trims and flounces. At the end, all were satisfied as well as exhausted by the effort. Mrs. Crouch said, "A job well done. The young ladies may return in three days for their first fittings." In just a few moments, Richards returned in the sleigh and they returned to South Park.
After they returned for the initial fittings, the ladies selected shoes and visited the milliner with a swatch of each fabric in order to have the headpieces created. Mrs. Gregory remarked, "I don't get much call for these. It should be fun. Come back in about a week to see the progress we've made." With all the initial work underway, they rewarded themselves with a stop at the confectionary in the village.
While the construction of the presentation outfits was under way, both Lady Rachel and Lady Matilda instructed the girls in the social niceties of the presentation. Generally, Lady Matilda would watch as they practiced walking with a train and taking their curtsey in a mock-up of their hooped presentation skirts. Their mishaps as they tried to master both occasioned a great deal of laughter. Since hoops were not a current element of fashion, moving in one was quite different and required a great deal of practice. Finally, everything was completed and collected and the practices began in the actual dresses instead of the stand-ins.
Preparations for the presentation did not stop other activities on the estate. Anne spent a great deal of time reading to her grandmother in the evenings. They visited friends in the local vicinity. She practiced piano, often with Agatha, and performed for the family. Anne and Agatha accompanied Lady Matilda on her visits to tenants at least twice weekly. Anne enjoyed being able to do this with someone else since she was the only one at Kellynch willing to take an interest in the tenants and others in the area.
"This was always something your mother greatly enjoyed," said Lady Matilda to Anne on one of these visits. "She felt that those who are better off have a duty to help those in need. And of course, the great house is responsible for the situation of everyone on the estate. How else to know what is going on that to visit and see for oneself?"
Anne replied, "I thought I remembered her visiting regularly. I was too young to join her when she passed. Elizabeth does not visit, so I do the job at Kellynch. Thank goodness the steward listens to me so that people who are greatly in need can be helped. I do very little but bring along dainties or an article of clothing."
Agatha said, "But those are important too. I have seen how much difference such a dainty can make in an otherwise unhappy day."
Lady Matilda added, "Indeed. I too report to the steward as well as Sir Michael. They undertake to fix the biggest issues. However, it is important that the tenants know how much we value their efforts. If nothing else, our visits show our interest in their lives and the value we place on them. Without all they do, we would not have the comfort that we enjoy."
At the end of February, the Stevensons hosted one final winter dinner where the proposed treaty between Napoleon and Prussia was the primary topic of conversation with both the gentlemen and the ladies. All expected this to lead to an expansion of the ongoing war. When everyone had joined together after the separation of the sexes, Anne played a number of Beethoven sonatas for her uncle. Agatha had finally mastered one well enough that she was willing to perform, so she also played. Sir Michael was very grateful and vocal in his praise of their accomplishments.
After the dinner party, everyone turned to preparations for the removal to town for the next two months. Hugh and Margaret always enjoyed hosting the family and were both looking forward to the added company for the remainder of the season. Trunks were packed and loaded onto the wagon for transport to town. The maids and valet left in their carriage while Agatha, Anne and Lady Rachel left in another, with Lady Matilda and Sir Michael in a third. At each stop, they would switch around who was in each family carriage so all had time together. They were lucky that the weather was relatively clear although quite cold and windy. They stopped at a quiet inn at the end of each day in the five days it took them to reach London. They were all tired of riding by the time they reached Hugh Stevenson's home in Mayfair.
Chapter 5
Posted on 2014-11-05
Hugh and Margaret were happy to assist his brother in bringing out Agatha. That they could assist Anne at the same time was a happy coincidence. With Harold at university and Anthony in the cavalry although not yet on the continent, their home felt empty. They rejoiced to fill it with the rest of the family. James had spent much of the winter in town studying law. He was working in Hugh's chambers and starting to assume some responsibility. His mother was correct that he was also using the time in town to court a young lady, the daughter of a friend of Hugh's, Arabella Fletcher.
When Margaret Swann had married Hugh Stevenson, she and Lady Matilda had become very good friends. Their boys were all close in age and also good friends as well as cousins. She was happy to help Lady Matilda launch Agatha into society. She remembered her own season, when she had met Hugh, with great fondness and hoped the same for Agatha and Anne. She regretted that she had never had a daughter of her own to launch. She said to Lady Matilda, "I would love to work together with you to launch Anne. That allows each of us to concentrate on just one girl. Launching the boys just isn't the same."
Lady Matilda replied, "I am so glad you want to assist as I know it will take the two of us. Of course, Anne will not be quite as much trouble as Agatha. Anne is so much quieter. And we also have Mother to assist us."
Margaret turned to Anne and said, "Anne, we are so happy to have you visit us. I've put you in the room right next to Agatha. Agatha, could you show Anne the way?"
Agatha led Anne up the stairs to a room near the back of the house. "The rooms back here are much quieter than those nearer the front. And we get the afternoon sun instead of the morning, so if we want to sleep in, it isn't quite as hard."
Anne laughed. "It sounds delightful. I will admit that I've never had the opportunity to dance so late that I needed to sleep in the next morning. I think I'm quite looking forward to it."
The girls spent the next half hour refreshing from their journey. Agatha knocked at Anne's door. "Are you ready to join the others?" she asked through the closed door.
As the door opened, Anne replied, "Yes. It will be nice to visit with Aunt Margaret again. It seems ever so long since the last time I saw her." With that, Agatha led the way back down to the parlor where they found her mother and their aunt sipping a cup of tea. Indeed, Anne had not visited with the Stevensons in London since the death of her mother. Lady Elliot had been the one to ensure visits with her family members.
Margaret poured tea for both girls and pointed to a plate of biscuits. "Help yourselves. I imagine you can find something you like," she said as she smiled at the two young ladies. "I declare, it is so fun to have you here. The season is somewhat dull for a matron like me when her sons, or her visiting nephew, rarely want to attend any of the big events. With Harold and Anthony gone, and James so busy, I have attended very few balls this season. You will see James later today, by the way. He is with Hugh at chambers. They are in the midst of a trial and are very busy. When he is free, he has been spending all of his time with Miss Fletcher. I have invited her for tea tomorrow so that you can meet her, Matilda. I like her very much."
Lady Matilda replied, "Thank you Margaret. I am looking forward to it. So you think James is quite serious about her, do you?"
"It seems that way. I think he was just waiting for your trip to town to formalize things, although I do not think he is ready to marry. He has not sufficient income as yet, at least as a barrister. That will probably be at least two more years, according to Hugh. However, he may not wish to wait. Who knows with the young?"
"Well, Hugh should know. He's been through this himself."
Lady Rachel spoke up, "If the young people settle things between themselves, they will find a way as soon as it is practical. Has she a good dowry?"
Margaret answered, "Not enough for them to live on, but enough for a nice supplement. Unless her father settles something more on her, I think they will be waiting."
Anne and Agatha listened to the discussion with great interest. Anne realized that she did not know what her own dowry was. Her father never discussed it. It was something she would need to discuss with her father when she returned home. For now, she asked, "Grandmother, I have just realized that Father has never mentioned what my dowry would be. Do you know? I imagine it may come up on this visit."
Lady Rachel answered, "Based on the marriage settlement, you are entitled to one third of your mother's ten thousand pounds. Knowing your father, I am sure he is using the interest for himself, but that is what you are due. Should the need arise, be sure that your uncles will help you receive it. Perhaps I malign your father, but I speak as I find. I would guess he hasn't any surplus to add to the marriage settlement."
"Thank you. So about three thousand pounds. That sounds like a rather fine amount."
Lady Matilda replied, "Yes. It is not a fortune, but the interest on your share comes to about 130 pounds per year. It would not keep you in the style of Kellynch, but it would not be in poverty either. If you marry someone with a reasonable income, you should be quite comfortable. As we were mentioning, James does not yet have sufficient income because Miss Fletcher has little to add to his current salary of two hundred pounds per year. She has perhaps fifty pounds. Once he is established as a barrister, it should be upwards of four hundred fifty pounds, and they will be quite comfortable, at least until he must take over the estate. Two hundred would mean they would have to do some economizing. Not a good way to start married life together if you have the option of waiting a short time to make things finer. Better to wait a year or two and be comfortable at the beginning. Otherwise, you have to have the skills to make up for the deficiency in income with your own cooking, cleaning, sewing, and other such things."
Agatha added, "Oh that all makes sense. Since I am to have about five thousand pounds, I should be able to be comfortable with someone who has adequate income as well."
Lady Rachel said, "Yes dear. Your father was able to provide a small portion to James, but James wants to be able to support a wife on his own without relying on the gift from your father. He wants to be able to provide for any children so that they have a decent start in life as well. Anne, it is well to be aware of the financial implications of the different men you meet. Your sister seems to be looking primarily for rank and ignoring the very real costs that go along with your lifestyle. It was a concern your mother had, and she was able to influence your father to stay within his income during her life. I fear that, since her death, he has been accumulating debt to finance a more elaborate lifestyle. Do you understand why you should care about the finances of your prospective suitors?"
Anne and Agatha both nodded their heads. Anne thought back to the changes at Kellynch over the years since her mother's death and realized that her grandmother was likely correct. The clothing and entertainment seemed more expensive than it had under her mother's regime. She could not imagine Elizabeth nor her father ever economizing on anything. She was glad once again for the opportunity she had to be companion to her grandmother this winter. It was teaching her a great deal.
Lady Rachel continued, "You will find that at our level of society, marriage is often as much of a family alliance as relationships between the individuals. One of the reasons Elizabeth is finding it difficult to land her candidates is that she has very little to offer. Although Kellynch is an older title, it has very little to offer to anyone outside of Somerset. The income is not substantial. The family to offer in the alliance is all on the Stevenson, not the Ellliot, side. Although South Park is not as old a title as Kellynch, the estate is much wealthier. With our ties to the Stanleys, we are a better alliance. So, Elizabeth has to look to her dowry and her accomplishments. Your dowry is quite small, relatively speaking, for someone in the Ton. There are many heiresses with upwards of ten thousand pounds and more. And Elizabeth has no accomplishments. All she really has is her looks. And there are many young debutants who are as beautiful."
Agatha asked, "So you are saying that Anne may not attract as much attention as I, since I have a larger dowry and better family connections?"
Lady Matilda answered, "Yes. That is the likely result. However, Anne has much more to offer than her sister, so she may have more success than Elizabeth."
Anne replied, "This is all very interesting. I think it makes sense. Elizabeth has a lot to offer to someone who lives near Kellynch but less to those elsewhere. I do not think she or father realize that Kellynch isn't that important, in comparison."
Lady Rachel said, "It is why they don't like to visit. We do not give them the deference they think they are due. They have an exaggerated sense of their own importance. Perhaps another season or two will cause your sister to rethink her chances."
At that point, the older women began a discussion about Anthony's prospects in the cavalry while Anne continued to ponder her place in society. She appreciated the different perspective she found with her grandmother. It made Elizabeth's lack of success more understandable.
Lady Rachel started, "So, when do you anticipate Anthony being sent to the continent?"
Margaret replied, "For now, he appears to be concentrating on training new recruits. For selfish reasons, I hope he remains here in England where he is safe."
Lady Matilda said, "I am sure we would all prefer that."
Lady Rachel said, "If he is in the army, he is always at risk, although less so here in England."
Margaret sighed and said, "Yes. From what I can gather, he will be spending the spring conducting training. It is possible that in summer or fall, he might be transferred, or rather, his division might be transferred to active fighting. We don't know more than that at this point."
Lady Rachel said, "I hate it when our men must be in harm's way and there is nothing we can do. They call us weaker, and yet we are the ones that must wait and worry while they are out doing. I lost a couple of cousins to the fighting in the colonies. My aunt was always worried about them."
Margaret agreed, "It is sad that gentlemen have so few choices for occupation that the army is a frequent career choice. Anthony has always loved to ride, hated school work, and could think of nothing but the cavalry. At least we could send him to Sandhurst for training."
Lady Matilda added, "I fear Percy is considering the same thing. It is often the case with our younger sons if they are not interested in law or the church. He is considering the Horse Guards after graduation."
Anne and Agatha both spent a great deal of the remaining afternoon thinking about their cousins and the risks found in military life. Neither had spent much time considering that in the past. Since Percy was also considering the cavalry, Agatha feared she would have more to worry about than just a cousin.
After the tea, all brought out their embroidery to work on during their chat while they awaited the arrivals of James and Hugh. Sir Michael read the papers as they talked. The relaxed and jovial atmosphere was very pleasant. Had she been home, Anne would likely be visiting parishioners in need hoping to be home soon or else practicing her piano, depending on what the weather was doing. It was much nicer to be sitting with company enjoying their conversation while she sat at her embroidery.
The men returned shortly after dark settled over the city. Anne marveled at how cozy the townhouse was even as a rainstorm settled in shortly after James and Hugh arrived. Their greeting when they joined the women in the parlor was warm and hearty. Said Lady Matilda, "So James, I am to meet Miss Fletcher tomorrow. Are there any subjects I should avoid so as not to embarrass you?"
He laughed and said, "Mother, if I said there were, I know those would be your first topics. No. Miss Fletcher is already well aware of my various youthful failings and finds them very amusing."
Hugh added, "Matilda, Miss Fletcher seems very sensible and amiable. I think you will find plenty to talk about."
Margaret asked, "So how were things in court today?"
Hugh replied, "The case settled. We were able to settle just before the trial was to start. We spent the rest of the day drawing up settlement papers. I can tell you that I am relieved that is done. It has been a very tricky business. James has been a great assistant to me."
Sir Michael said "Well, it is good to hear that my son is doing well. Better to be busy in something productive like this until it is time to take over South Park. It is not so big that it needs both of us to oversee it. I know he does not need to work, but I am glad he has found something which will both keep him busy and allow him a fine living at the same time."
James laughed. "Father, I am glad I am not a disappointment. I am enjoying the law and living here in London. I do prefer South Park, but imagine I will stay here for some years yet-at least as long as we can keep you in good health. Once I am practicing as a barrister, I expect to set up my own establishment. While I am yet a clerk for my uncle, I appreciate staying here with them. And with all of you here for the next months, it should be far livelier than it has been with just the three of us."
Margaret laughed and said, "I should hope so if we are bringing out your sister and your cousin. You will not attend all, but we expect to be at entertainments almost nightly for the next two months. We won't start until after the presentation at court next week, but then we will be very lively indeed."
James grinned and said unrepentantly, "As I said, it should be far livelier. I look forward to attending as many of these engagements as I can. I know that Miss Fletcher goes to many events without me and I would like my family to be there for her, particularly if she does agree to become Mrs. Stephenson."
Lady Rachel said, "We will do what we can for you, boy."
The conversation at supper was of a light nature with much teasing and banter. Anne just loved times like this, with all the kindliness and friendliness that was such a contrast to the attitudes of her older sister and father.
Chapter 6
Late the next morning, Miss Fletcher and Mrs. Fletcher called on the Stevensons. Margaret performed the introductions as all were seated in the parlor. Anne and Agatha contributed little to the conversation but listened avidly as Lady Rachel and Lady Matilda interrogated Miss Fletcher. It was obvious that both Mrs. and Miss Fletcher had expected exactly this, because Mrs. Fletcher also sat by watching the exchange. She looked over at the girls and smiled at them, and during a break in the conversation said to them, "You two will have your turn at this someday soon, I predict." Both girls blushed at this pronouncement.
Agatha responded, "Well, we hope so anyway." Everyone laughed. After the appropriate time, both Lady Matilda and Lady Rachel were well pleased with James's young lady. Miss Fletcher found that they had not been too demanding in their questions, and they in turn shared some stories of a very young, mischievous James. Once the ladies left, there were only a few other morning callers. Lady Rachel and Lady Matilda planned to wait to deliver their own cards to friends until after the presentation next week.
The afternoon was given over to yet another practice for the presentation. Both Anne and Agatha were thoroughly tired of these rehearsals, but again, both understood the importance of the event.
When James returned home, he immediately sought his mother and said, "Well?"
She smiled and said, "I liked her very much indeed. She is charming and her mother is too. Does that mean you are ready?"
He responded, "Now that I have your approval, I am. I am very attracted to her. We share so much in common. I think she will make a fine Lady Stevenson someday."
Lady Rachel said, "I agree. Snare her while you can. When do you see her again?"
"We are to attend a musical evening tomorrow. If I can find a private moment, I will ask then. Otherwise, it will not be for some days."
As they went in to supper, Anne considered the James' style of courting. He had apparently met someone he found quite attractive. He had then proceeded to get to know her better to ensure compatibility. He then had his mother assess his chosen. Finally, he would ask her. She contrasted this to how Elizabeth was approaching marriage. Elizabeth had practically memorized who all the eligible men of rank were. She had weeded out those not exalted enough. She had then made her selection and pursued him.
Her first choice had been their cousin who was heir to Kellynch. He had apparently been even more mercenary than Elizabeth and had both snubbed her and married a woman of lower rank and greater wealth. Elizabeth had made her choice before she had even met the man. After being furious for some months, she had made another selection and pursued him. He had also not been interested but it took longer to ascertain it this time so she had wasted two whole years in pursuit. This past fall, the third candidate had been summoned to participate in hunting parties. At least he had come willingly. However, she had still not managed to capture his undivided attention in spite of her beauty. Miss Fletcher was not nearly as pretty as Elizabeth, and yet she had managed to secure a very nice young man in James. Anne found the two different approaches very enlightening. She determined that she would only wed someone she could deeply esteem and respect. After the discussion about money the previous day, he must have sufficient income to keep them in a comfortable style. She would not ask for more than that, she decided. She also would not assume that coming from Kellynch, she would be the one conferring honor on her suitors. She would assess them as the men that they were, rather than the potential family alliance they might represent.
After meeting with Miss Fletcher, Lady Rachel, Lady Matilda, Margaret, Anne and Agatha had spent the afternoon at a fashionable salon selecting a town wardrobe for Anne and Agatha. Anne had a very sparse wardrobe as more was not needed at Kellynch. Since she was to attend so many engagements while in town, it was important that she have a more extensive collection from which to dress. Her grandmother intended to see that it was acquired as soon as possible. Prior to coming to town, all that had been ordered were the new gowns for the court presentation. Those would not be worn anywhere else until they had been reworked to something more serviceable and current.
Anne and Agatha both enjoyed the afternoon selecting new dresses. It was fun to do with someone of the same age and similar taste. Anne hated shopping with Elizabeth as they always disagreed on what was tasteful. Elizabeth tended to appreciate the showy, even if it was uncomfortable. This was much more fun. Although Agatha was somewhat more flamboyant in taste than Anne, she appreciated the delicacy in Anne's choices which Elizabeth always deprecated. After a few days, Anne and Agatha collected their enhanced wardrobes and the social whirl would begin in earnest.
The next evening, James was successful in obtaining a private moment with Miss Fletcher. He achieved his point and she agreed to become Mrs. Stevenson. From her smiles and blushes, Lady Matilda ascertained Arabella's agreement. She watched James move over for a few words with Mr. Fletcher. The two stepped out of the room for a few minutes and returned shortly with faces wreathed in smiles. Plans were made for both families to get together in the following week to celebrate. Mr. Fletcher would post the announcement to the papers the next morning.
Mr. Fletcher spent a moment with the host of the evening. With smiles, he called the company to silence and motioned Mr. Fletcher forward. Mr. Fletcher smiled and said, "I am pleased to announce to all of our friends that my daughter has become affianced to that rising young barrister James Stevenson. Please join me in wishing them congratulations."
Applause broke out. Friends and well-wishers visited both James and Arabella offering congratulations. Both families came together to assure one another of their happiness.
After all the conversation, and questions, James and Arabella stepped to the back of the room for some private conversation. James asked, "Are you in favor of a long or short engagement? My work is progressing enough that by fall, I expect to have sufficient income to support a wife if we are careful. We can wait until my income increases next year if you would prefer."
Arabella replied, "I do not want to wait longer than we must. I do not need a great deal if we can find a snug little home together. Do you mind marrying here in London? That is where my family is. If we marry in September, can your family join us in town?"
James replied, "Yes, I think we can manage that. Let's verify that with your father first, then with mine." They then proceeded to do just that. They selected September 1 as the tentative date. Mr. Fletcher would verify the availability of their local church before placing the announcement for the paper.
The mothers spoke together and arranged for a family celebration dinner in three days' time at the Stevensons. Mrs. Fletcher was excited to begin wedding planning and hoped to know Lady Matilda better. She had enjoyed their introductory visit.
Margaret served Miss Fletcher's favorite dishes along with a few of James' for the celebratory dinner. The announcement had appeared in the paper that day as Mr. Fletcher had booked the church for the morning of September 1. During the separation of the sexes, Mr. Fletcher approached James. "I understand from Arabella that you two will be looking for a small place in which to start together. I have a friend who has a little place not three blocks from your practice. It is small but quaint. It should also be very affordable. Would you and Arabella like to take a look?"
James replied, "That would be excellent. Perhaps the other ladies can also tour it with us? I would like the opinions of both my mother and grandmother. They have far more experience than I."
"I will talk with my friend and let you know what would he says. When would be convenient for you?"
"I can get away any day except Monday," replied James.
When the sexes reconnected, James informed both Arabella and his mother of the conversation. Lady Matilda was grateful that he wanted her to see this potential home. She said, "Miss Fletcher, I am sure there are a few pieces of furniture at South Park that can be made available if you are interested."
Miss Fletcher replied, "Please, call me Arabella. After we see what the place looks like and what is included, we will better know what we need to supplement. I would be happy to have your advice about what we need to add."
Lady Matilda answered, "Why don't you call me Mother Stevenson? It will be more comfortable than Lady Matilda, particularly after the wedding."
"Thank you, Mother Stevenson, I'll do that," smiled Arabella.
Both Anne and Agatha watched the cautious relationship building between the mothers and Arabella, taking notes for their own future needs. They determined that the decision to respect was most important in building this new family relationship. That night after the dinner, they discussed this in Agatha's room.
As they sat themselves in the window seat, Agatha said, "You know, I liked them both when they visited the other day. Mrs. Fletcher seems to have a nice sense of humor."
Anne said, "A sense of humor can really help when you find yourself in uncomfortable situations. It helps to be able to laugh at oneself."
"She does seem to like to tease, but not in a mean way. I do like Arabella. She seems such a nice girl. I shall like having her for a sister."
"She is certainly very personable. She isn't fussy or demanding. She seems quite considerate. I think that is very important."
"She has done a good job of making friends with mother. I should think it important to be friends. Mother and Grandmother get along well and both are such strong personalities that things would be uncomfortable if they were always at odds."
Anne asked, "I wonder how you manage to make those compromises so that both seem happy with them?"
Agatha replied, "I have heard Grandmother say that both the old and the young must understand their place. When Grandfather was alive, Grandmother was the one in authority. When he died, she said it was no longer her show to run and that Mother must now take charge. She said she was now in an advisory role."
Anne mused, "It seems to me that so many women feel powerless that they are loathe to give up what authority they have when their time is done. Many seem to grasp onto their power in order feel a sense of worth. I have seen that in parish matters. Those squabbles seem so unimportant from the outside, but they are everything to the women involved. It must be hard to step back and watch another take over your house. Perhaps that's why dower houses were built-so that the widow could still have a place in which to rule."
Agatha said, "That is a good point. Grandmother still runs the dower house to her taste. Mother did change a few things when Grandmother moved. However, Grandmother never criticized the changes or suggested that her way was better. Instead, she has been very supportive of what Mother does."
Anne added, "I think that means that both parties must make an effort to support each other. It is as we are told in the Holy Writ that with what judgment we mete, we shall be judged. If we judge generously, we will, in turn, be judged generously. Both Mother and Grandmother judge one another generously. It helps everyone get along better."
Agatha said, "I am glad we have such a good example before us. I've seen others where they do not get along and it is always tense as they are sniping at one another."
Anne agreed after which she returned to her own room to continue to reflect before falling asleep. If only her mother had not left so soon!
Chapter 7
Posted on 2014-11-12
On Monday, James and Arabella viewed the little home near his chambers and were charmed. They decided to lease it. They returned with the rest of the family that afternoon. All the girls, mothers, and grandmother viewed it with an eye to what they might contribute to its furnishings. They agreed on a few minor renovations to be completed during the summer months. Both mothers also proposed some items of furniture that could be contributed to help personalize the home. All left well pleased with the day's work.
The following day, the girls had their presentation at court. They arose early and had a very small breakfast due to their nervousness. Their maids helped them into their presentation costumes. They then spent almost an hour getting their hair and headpieces adjusted. A ridiculous amount of jewelry was added as a final adornment. Finally, they carefully made their way down the stairs.
Lady Rachel, Lady Matilda, and Margaret awaited them in the parlor. As the girls entered, they all smiled and Lady Rachel said, "You girls look wonderful. As we discussed, I will sponsor Anne, Matilda Agatha. Let's head out to the carriage."
They grabbed shawls and wrapped up. A heavier warm covering would make a mess of the flounces on the dresses. The footman helped them into the carriage and they smoothed their dresses. They made their way through the morning traffic in London to the palace. There was no conversation on the drive. The girls were too nervous. Mother and Grandmother left them to their nerves for the drive.
They arrived at the palace in a procession of carriages. A footman helped them exit the carriage, then theirs pulled away and another took its place. There was noise everywhere, with trumpets and gunfire announcing arrivals. They joined the crush of women, all as ridiculously overdressed as they, waiting their turn. Finally, the Lord Chamberlain announced Anne. Anne entered the presence chamber and walked to the Queen where she made her deep curtsy. The Queen said, "I remember your Mother was also presented by your Grandmother. She was a lovely woman."
Anne replied, "Thank you, Your Majesty."
The Queen nodded at Anne indicating her dismissal upon which Anne made another deep curtsy and backed out of the room. A few moments later, Agatha was announced. She returned shortly. Both breathed a deep sigh of relief. They then pushed through what remained of the crush of women to find their carriage. They were all relieved that there had been no mishaps. As they entered the carriage, they were finally able to speak again.
Agatha began, "Well, I am glad that is over. I am glad we saw the Queen and don't mind if I never do so again. I will be heartily glad to get out of these hoops. They make the carriage so crowded."
Anne laughed and said, "I agree with that. However, she was quite gracious. She claimed she remembered Mother as a lovely woman."
Lady Rachel said, "She may have remembered her or someone who saw your name on the list for today reminded her. In any case, that was very nice of her. I am very glad hoops are no longer in fashion and we don't have to deal with these on a daily basis."
At home, the girls changed into normal attire. The maids took the dresses off to see what could be done to remake them into something wearable. Many discarded their presentation dresses, but the Stevensons were too practical to allow that.
Since they had eaten so little that morning, they satisfied themselves with tea and muffins before beginning their social rounds. Finally replenished, the ladies all went out to deliver cards and pay calls, finally letting their friends know that they were in town.
One of the places they left cards was at the Ackerman's. The daughter, Millicent, was the young lady that Agatha had befriended in the fall. Her brother, Joshua, was one of the young men that Agatha had found promising. She was most anxious to renew the acquaintance and see Joshua again.
The following day, both Lady Jersey and Lady Sefton visited the Stevenson's. They chatted with Lady Rachel and Lady Matilda, and then visited with both Anne and Agatha. After a few more moments, they indicated approval and provided vouchers for both to attend the dances at Almack's. Anne was thrilled to be admitted to the select company. Elizabeth had never attended a dance there. Anne was unsure of why that was. Unknown to her, Elizabeth had not even bothered to try to gain entry as she had already selected her marriage candidates and did not want to waste her time on the lesser beings to be found at Almack's.
As the visit was a Wednesday, the presentation having been on Tuesday, they all determined to attend the ball at Almack's that evening. They had been hoping for such an invitation and so had left the evening free.
That afternoon, Mrs. and Miss Ackerman returned the call paid them the day before. During the visit, the Ackermans were invited to dine with the Stevensons the following day. Both mothers were quite satisfied to renew the acquaintance and see if the budding romance between Joshua and Agatha should come to anything.
Margaret said, "Do you attend Almack's?"
Mrs. Ackerman replied, "Why, yes, we usually do."
Margaret said, "Excellent. We plan to be there this evening. Shall we see you there?"
Mrs. Ackerman immediately responded, "Oh yes. We were planning to attend. Joshua enjoys the dancing and of course Millicent does too."
Lady Rachel added, "Then we shall see you there this evening."
A few more pleasantries were exchanged and the Ackermans excused themselves. Others stopped by to visit and the ladies found themselves very busy during visiting hours. Finally, they had the house to themselves and could relax.
Then it was time to prepare again, this time for the first dance at Almack's. Agatha was excited that she would see Mr. Ackerman again. Both were excited for the dancing. They looked quite nice in their finery and were excited to be admitted to the exclusive environs limited to the upper echelon of the Ton.
James had joined them, happy that Arabella was also to be there and he could dance with her as her betrothed. The Fletchers, Stevensons, and Ackermans all spent a great deal of the evening together. James was able to dance more than one dance with Arabella. Both Agatha and Anne danced with Joshua Ackerman, although he talked mainly to Agatha. Both Agatha and Anne were introduced to a number of young men and found that they greatly enjoyed the dance. They were not the most in demand, but neither were they ignored. It was extremely gratifying. Millicent also found herself a frequent partner, so all three girls enjoyed themselves. Since the Fletchers were there as well, the girls spent more time becoming better acquainted with Arabella. It was a very pleasant evening.
Within days, it was common place for Millicent to visit with Anne and Agatha in the late morning. Frequently, Arabella also visited them. They would read together, embroider, play piano, and generally relax together as they became better acquainted. They often also made calls together, providing one another moral support with some trying acquaintances.
After Agatha and Anne received callers, the three or four girls would enjoy comparing notes on the various men who called. Millicent would add her comments about those who called upon her. More and more, Agatha found that Joshua Ackerman was her preferred companion. Neither Millicent nor Anne had found a suitor they preferred.
Chapter 8
Anne greatly enjoyed these few weeks in London. They were out almost every evening, except only those in which Hugh and Margaret were the hosts. She found she had many occasions to appreciate that her room was near the back and far quieter than the front of the house as she frequently slept late into the morning, although still never as late as was Elizabeth's custom.
They attended the dance at Almack's each Wednesday. Each week, they would find ways to freshen their gowns so as to not appear in the same thing on any two occasions. As the Stevensons were more practical (and frugal) than many of the Ton, they were actually reworking and retrimming the same four gowns. But each time, it appeared to be a new creation.
At least two or three times each week following a social engagement, a young man, accompanied by his mother, would stop by to call upon either Agatha or Anne. Since Anne was so much quieter, and her dowry smaller, she had fewer callers than her cousin. The visits followed a remarkably similar pattern. After the visitors were shown into the parlor, the mother would begin, "It is so good to see you again." They would then name the son and say, "xxx was just saying how refreshing he found your conversation." They all knew this was a code for "you have conversation that is outside the ordinary and are actually expressing opinions. Do you do this because you are peculiar or are you actually a nice young woman to know?"
Agatha would reply, "I am glad he enjoyed our conversation. I know it is not the custom to talk about current events, but I find I get a far better glimpse into the young man if I know his thoughts on the war on the continent."
Anne would usually add, "Our family feels it important that we be able to respect the young men to whom we become attached. Asking about the war allows us to both show that we have opinions and solicit their own. In this way, we can determine if there is a likelihood of our enjoying one another's company."
Lady Rachel would usually add, "They have been raised to have opinions and show them. It is not good Ton, but it enables us to cut through the chaff pretty quickly."
If the young man is one of the chaff, his mother is usually aware and will quickly end the visit. If he actually has some substance, the visit will continue with a discussion of the war, usually led by Lady Rachel and her inflammatory comments. Agatha was pleased that Joshua Ackerman seemed to enjoy these discussions. Arabella Fletcher came to enjoy them as well.
It was soon apparent that Agatha had hopes of Joshua Ackerman. All of them enjoyed his company and Agatha found him to be particularly fun to chat with. Whenever they attended a dance of some sort, he was quick to ask for two sets with Agatha and one with Anne. Anne appreciated this as he was an excellent dancer.
Anne met quite a number of young men but found that most of them had little conversation and rarely thought beyond the pleasure of the moment, at least in conversation with her. This helped her determine that she greatly preferred young men who were interested in what was going on in the world and assumed that she was too. There were only a couple she knew who currently met her expanding criteria and none were yet in a financial position to support a wife and family. Those with little conversation found they could not navigate the virtual mine field that Lady Rachel set in the parlor and generally withdrew after their first attempt. Those that returned realized that they would have to move further along in their professions and financially before they could make Miss Elliot any kind of offer.
Lady Rachel observed Anne's interactions with these various young men and finally asked her about her thoughts on them. "Your father and sister will be in town shortly. Having them around will likely change the dynamic in these social situations. Have you found anyone interesting yet?"
Anne laughed and said, "I suspect you are correct. Since what matters to them is not what matters to me, we will probably not enjoy the same kinds of engagements. Most of these young men seem very young. They seem, well, immature is I guess the best word. They cannot talk of what is going on in the continent except in very general terms, have no opinions on current events, and seem to believe that women are only ornamental. I do not want a partner who thinks that way. I want a companion that respects me and who I can respect in return. I overheard one matron describe them quite well. They seem like over-eager puppies. However, I am grateful I have had the opportunity to attend the season and meet so many people. When I return to Kellynch, I will have many new friends to write to and who knows what the future will bring? Perhaps one of them will introduce me to someone at a later date or one of these who seem so young now will finally mature."
Lady Rachel laughed at the reference to puppies. "That is an excellent description of so many of these young men. Many are full well young. So you want someone with a head on his shoulders, do you?"
"Yes. I don't want to speak ill of Father, but I want to spend my life with someone who cares about more than external appearance."
Lady Rachel laughed again. "So did your mother, but she didn't realize how very shallow your father's interests are until it was too late. I can see that you will not make the same mistake. Unfortunately, Elizabeth seems to be as shallow as Sir Walter. I wish her luck in her search. Well, if you are not successful this year, perhaps I can bring you again next winter. I have enjoyed having you visit and it looks like Agatha may not be around South Park next winter to keep us entertained."
Anne smiled and replied, "I am sure I would like that very much. Mr. Ackerman is very nice, isn't he? And there is no need for jealousy as I am sure we would not suit at all. He is far too lively for me and seems perfect for Agatha."
"Yes, he does. I hope he asks soon. It would be nice to have both James and Agatha settled this year."
Lady Matilda entered just as Lady Rachel was saying that and answered, "It is very nice, isn't it? I won't have to attend the season again as Percy seems to be planning on the military. London is nice to visit occasionally, but I will not miss it. But we still haven't found anyone for Anne. What will we do?"
Anne replied, "There is no rush. There is still time this year before I return to Kellynch, and I am still full young. Grandmother was saying that perhaps I can attend her again next year if no one comes forward this year. I do not expect to return each year as Elizabeth does, each time with my sights set on a different target. Oh, that was unkind. I shouldn't even think that of her."
Lady Rachel laughed and said, "Perhaps not, but we all know it is true. Do you know who this year's candidate is?"
Anne mentioned a name and said, "He attended two shooting parties last fall. He seemed to be fairly attentive to her and I think she expects to see him while they are here."
Lady Matilda replied, "She had better come soon then, as he has frequently been in company lately with Lady Jessica Stanley. As Lady Jessica has a larger dowry than Elizabeth and is almost as beautiful, she will be hard to compete with."
It was as Lady Matilda predicted. Shortly after Sir Walter and Elizabeth arrived, the engagement of the young man and Lady Jessica was announced. Once again, Elizabeth had been thwarted in her quest for a husband. She was also displeased that Anne now had a wardrobe as lovely as her own and was looking quite well. As a result, she was frequently seen with a scowl on her face marring her beauty when she and Anne attended the same events. Luckily for Elizabeth's countenance, these occasions were few.
Happily for Anne, the Stevensons and Elliots seldom attended events together, and Anne spent very little time with her father and sister. They did have a couple of dinners together but seldom any conversation. Lady Rachel observed it and mentally shook her head at the complete lack of anything resembling thought from Sir Walter. For their part, Sir Walter and Elizabeth were happy to avoid Lady Rachel as much as possible and were coolly polite when they encountered her.
Elizabeth and Sir Walter spent their evenings with their social set and the Stevensons did the same with theirs. They tended to meet only at musical evenings which the Stevensons attended for the music and the Elliots for the company. Happily, they were usually seated at some distance from one another.
The month of April passed quickly with a variety of social activities. Anne enjoyed the dances and the conversations, regretting only in passing that she had been unable to find someone who met her criteria. The friendship of the four young women continued to deepen. It was apparent that at some time in the future, Joshua would make an offer for Agatha. All knew he was not yet in a position to do so. He would come into his inheritance during the next year when he would be able to make a move. Millicent, like Anne, ended the month with no real prospects. However, neither had given up hope.
Chapter 9
Posted on 2014-11-19
At the beginning of May, the Elliot crest could be seen on a carriage bearing Sir Walter, Elizabeth, and Anne away from London and back to Somerset. Luckily for Anne, the valet and maidservant accompanied most of the luggage in a second carriage. Otherwise, the carriage would have been quite crowded and contained even more complaining than usual from Elizabeth and Sir Walter. As it was, the morning was quiet while they dozed, then contained a great deal of complaining for much of the rest of the day. Anne kept her thoughts to herself.
Anne had greatly enjoyed all the activity and new people she had met in London. She expected to keep in touch with many of them through letters, particularly Millicent Ackerman and Arabella Fletcher. She did not really expect that she would ever be afforded the opportunity to attend even a portion of the season again, no matter what her grandmother had said. These were memories to be cherished. She also did not feel that any of the men she had met would continue the acquaintance or move into actual courting when they finally had the finances to support a wife. However, she had enjoyed meeting a variety of new people and had developed a better of idea of what she would like in a companion. She also appreciated her new wardrobe.
The ride home was typical of all interactions with Elizabeth and Sir Walter. He complained of what the dust was doing to his complexion. She complained of the heat and inconvenience. Anne did her best to ignore them and concentrated on a new novel she had procured from her grandmother to read on the way home. When neither were too busy complaining, Anne would ask them about their visit to town, how they had enjoyed it, had they met any new people, and other similar small talk. Elizabeth mentioned two or three men she thought were serious about courting her and Sir Walter agreed. Since Anne had been present at a few of the engagements when these men were with the others, she seriously doubted the sincerity of their regard. However, she said nothing, knowing that her opinion would not be valued or the sentiments appreciated. She merely said how wonderful it was for Elizabeth and was it expected that they would visit Kellynch? After the first morning, there was no further conversation.
That evening, the inn was fairly quiet. The food was adequate, but both Sir Walter and Elizabeth felt a need to criticize it as not up to their standards. Anne retired to her room as soon as she was able, glad to have some time away from father and sister.
The second day, Anne reflected on what she had learned by visiting her grandmother. In particular, she considered courting. She wondered that Elizabeth had not seemed to learn anything by her total lack of success over the years. Before this, she had never really considered why that might be. She now recognized that her father and sister seemed to live in a reality that was different than that the rest of the world lived in. They believed what they wanted without reference to what was actually going on around them. She now thought that none of the suitors Elizabeth had claimed had really been such. They had paid her some attention but had never been serious in their attentions. Why, if Elizabeth thought she had been courted by some of them, then Anne would have to consider that she had been too. How ridiculous. Certainly there had been some flirtation, but really, none were serious. In fact, none of those that had flirted with her had yet been in a position to support a wife and family. The others that had paid her any attention at all had not particularly interested her.
Since the journey from Gloucester to London was on a different route than London to Somerset, Anne spent some of her day watching the scenery. Near London, it was similar as the roads had converged. However, by the second day, she was seeing different aspects of the countryside. As they stopped to change horses and stretch their legs, Anne found she appreciated how pleasant her grandmother and the Stevensons had been as traveling companions. They did not complain over the travails of travel but merely took them in stride. It seemed that neither Sir Walter nor Elizabeth was able to do so. Each inconvenience was an insult to the Elliot name. Anne actually found their posturing to be quite amusing, never having truly noticed it before. The four remaining days in the journey were all remarkably similar in this way. Only the scenery changed as they neared Kellynch.
Anne was almost glad to see her room again. So much had happened while she had been away. It was interesting to see this place, where she was of so little worth, and contrast that to her situation these past months. She would be happy to see Lady Russell and the curates with whom she did the charity work, but otherwise, she knew herself discontent with home. She wondered if that was a failing within herself. But then, as she considered her position in the family, she realized that her discontent actually showed that she had developed a sense of her own worth and did not appreciate how she was treated at home. Perhaps the discontent was a good thing, a sign of her own maturity.
However, Kellynch was looking its best. Spring was well under way and spring flowers were starting to bloom everywhere. Anne was grateful to visit Lady Russell and took her some of the flowers from one of the gardens.
Lady Russell was happy to have Anne home again. Of all the friends within the neighborhood, Anne was her preferred companion. Anne had similar tastes and good conversation.
"Anne. Oh, how I have missed you. As you know, I have just returned from Bath, and it is so good to have you home again. You must tell me all about your time in London." And then, taking the flowers from Anne, she continued, "These are just lovely. Thank you for thinking of me." She took the flowers from the room, and in a few minutes, the housekeeper returned with them in a vase and set them on the table. Meanwhile, Lady Russell ushered Anne into a seat and poured tea.
After greeting her, Anne said, "I am glad to see you again. Much has happened while I was away. As I wrote, Grandmother saw to it that I was presented at court. That was fascinating. Were you presented when you had your season?"
"Yes, I was. It was a little nerve wracking. How was it for you?"
"The same. I was nervous, but Grandmother and Aunt Matilda had drilled us so well that we had no mishaps. As I wrote, the presentation was a very interesting procedure. There were so many people there. We waited a long time before we were admitted to see the Queen. We went through without mishap though, so all is well."
"And you wrote that the Queen made mention of your mother?" questioned Lady Russell.
"Yes, she said she was a lovely woman. That was kind of her. I do wish Mother could have been there," lamented Anne. She then continued, "However, I had Grandmother and Aunt, so it is not as if I were alone. We were able to remake the dress so it is something I can continue to wear. I suspect I will remember that day every time I wear it."
"I expect you are correct." Lady Russell then asked the question that really mattered to her, "So, did you find anyone particularly appealing?"
Anne laughed delicately. "Not really. I heard a matron call them puppies and that is what most of them were. However, I did determine what I am looking for, so that is something. My idea of good company is the company of clever, well informed people who have a great deal of conversation. I want a young man I can respect, who appreciates that I may have an opinion and be something more than an ornament."
Lady Russell shook her head and said, "Really, Anne. Birth and good manners are essential. A little learning is also good. I think you are stretching things to look for someone young who is also well informed and has conversation."
Anne smiled. "Nevertheless, that is what I want. I must respect the man I marry. He must respect and value me for who I am, not for what I look like."
Lady Russell frowned at this reference to Sir Walter. "People always judge on looks. Your father just carries it to extremes."
"There is more to all people than merely how they look. Of course, one would choose someone attractive. That is only natural. But looks change over time. I want something more that doesn't change, something that is vital and important inside."
Lady Russell replied, "My dear, you are an idealist. I am sure you will think differently as you meet more people."
Anne held her peace, knowing this was an area on which she would disagree with her godmother. She was closer to her grandmother on this issue than Lady Russell and sad for the distance this would create. However, she knew it would be important to her future happiness, so although she regretted the disagreement, she would quietly keep this standard in mind. Meanwhile, Lady Russell thought she had persuaded Anne to a more reasonable frame of mind.
Lady Russell then shared updates about the neighbors. She would never call it gossip, but that is what it amounted to. Anne appreciated knowing what was going on. "The new curate, Mr. Wentworth, is attracting a great deal of attention from the single women of Monkford. He gives particularly nice sermons, apparently, and attendance is up significantly at Sunday services when he officiates."
"I am sure that is a nice change for them from Mr. Forrest. He was so old and dreary, speaking in a monotone."
After a lovely visit with Lady Russell, Anne turned to her charity visits. She visited Kellynch village and Mr. Thomas, the curate there. He updated her on the situation within the village and the estate. She made a mental note of who she would be visiting in the next few days. She still had time that day, since she had taken one of the riding mares, and rode over to Monkford to meet Edward Wentworth. He was a serious, well-spoken young man, who felt a true calling to the priesthood
He was a tall man in his early thirties, fairly quiet, and very dedicated to his work. She found he was well-informed and interesting to talk with. He was also comfortable to work alongside with without speaking. They discussed who in the parish she could currently assist and again she made mental notes for the next few days. They also talked of the war and its negative impact as wounded had returned to some of the Monkford families.
Mr. Wentworth said, "I have a brother serving in the navy. He was made Commander after Santo Domingo and is making quite a name for himself. As I see those who are injured return home unable to make a living, I worry for him. He is young and thinks himself immortal. I see others who were the same and are now broken men, relying on the kindness of others and the strength of their wives, in order to get by."
Anne said, "I know what you mean." She mentioned two of the men in Kellynch and one in Monkford who had returned the previous year. "It is hard to know what to do to assist them. It is hard for them to work the fields missing a leg. If they are only missing an arm, they have more success. Since they are illiterate, we cannot help them to a job as a clerk."
Mr. Wentworth thought for a moment and said, "Perhaps that is an answer. I shall have to pray about it."
"Pray about what?"
"Literacy. If we can teach them to read and write, they can get a job as a clerk and still provide for their families without that missing limb."
Anne said, "You know, you may be right."
"As I said, I will pray about it. I never make a major decision without prayer. Trying to start such training for these men is a major undertaking."
"I agree. It is. I will be interested to see what answer you receive."
Anne left in a state of bemusement. She had never met a curate with the vital energy exhibited by Mr. Wentworth. Since he did not have a full-time housekeeper, and his help was only there in the morning, they had spent the quarter hour on the porch in front of his house. She hoped he would have a more regular housekeeping situation by winter, or meetings with him would be uncomfortable. However, he had some wonderful ideas to help the needy in Monkford.
Supper at Kellynch was definitely deflating. Elizabeth had nothing to say and her father only slightly more. She mentioned Mr. Wentworth and was met with blank stares.
Sir Walter said, "Who is that? I do not believe I know him."
Anne replied, "He is the new curate in Monkford."
"Oh him. He is of no importance."
Elizabeth added, "He is decent enough. We will likely invite him to dine when we need to make up even numbers of men."
Anne was unable to interest them in the conversation she had held with him, so she held her tongue. Again, she wondered why there could never be good conversation at table in Kellynch when it consisted of only the family. She wondered when Elizabeth was planning another card party to provide some changes to the environment.
Chapter 10
The following week, Anne got her answer as Elizabeth had planned a card party and supper for the neighborhood. As she wanted to make up four tables, and was short two men, she invited both Mr. Wentworth and Mr. Thomas, one of the other curates, to make up the numbers. Both graciously accepted the invitation.
The day of the card party, Elizabeth assigned Anne the role of background music. "Since you refuse to play, and I had to find someone to take your place, you must assist by playing some pleasant music as background to our conversation. You won't mind since you don't bother to play with the rest of us."
Anne smiled and replied, "Of course, I should be glad to play. I am sorry you were put to extra bother because I do not enjoy playing cards. Playing piano is the least I can do."
Anne spent a few minutes organizing the music that she would play that afternoon. She was aware that most would not even notice, but for those few who would, she wanted to play pieces that were pleasant, or soothing, or somewhat peaceful as opposed to oppressive or unhappy. She found plenty that would enable her to fill up the afternoon.
Shortly thereafter, the first carriages arrived and Elizabeth and Sir Walter put on their heartiest, most welcoming airs. Once the first two had greeted everyone, Anne spent a little time with each actually speaking with them, finding out what was happening in their lives and how they were. Once the cards began, she would have little chance to visit. Over the course of half an hour, a few walkers and other carriages, as well as a couple of riders, arrived. When everyone was there, Elizabeth served tea as the tables were arranged for playing. After tea, Anne began her musical contribution and the games began.
The drawing room where they played looked quite elegant. There were fresh flowers from Kellynch's cutting gardens. A variety of teas was laid on the buffet table as well as other dainties with which the players could refresh themselves at times during the play. All surfaces in the room gleamed. Although she hated the bother of entertaining, when she did so, Elizabeth was sure that everything was as perfect as possible. She herself was dressed in a gown more suitable to evening rather than day wear, but it was the height of fashion and expense. She outshone all other women in the room, which was her aim.
For the next couple of hours, the neighbors gossiped, played cards, and enjoyed the company. As the afternoon wore on, and Anne neared the end of her selections, Elizabeth addressed the group, "I think this has been an excellent afternoon. I hope the cards have favored you. Now, if we could move to the dining room for supper, we can refresh you before you return home."
Sir Walter took her arm and everyone else followed in order of precedence, excepting Anne who was in danger of being ignored. Both Mr. Thomas and Mr. Wentworth offered her their arms, and she entered between them, well back from her proper place in the order. Here in the dining room, Elizabeth showed her talent as a hostess. The dining room was all elegance and sparkle. The guests all located their seats. Anne was pleased to be seated by the two curates as she knew there would be real conversation with them. As the soup was served, the three began to discuss an incident that had occurred in the Kellynch village only the previous day. The others at the table ignored their rustic conversation.
Mr. Thomas began, "So, Miss Anne, what shall we do with the owner of the cow that wandered into the pub yesterday?"
Anne responded with a smile, "How much damage was done?"
Mr. Wentworth replied, "I think none. However, feral livestock can be a real problem. In this case, allowing the owner to go unpunished will not encourage him to fix his fence."
Mr. Thomas added, "Think what might have happened if a child had been in its way and not moved away fast enough."
Anne nodded her head, and after taking another sip of soup, said, "I think there should probably be a fine, an additional payment to the pub owner, and a requirement that the fence be fixed. What more could we do?"
Mr. Thomas answered, "Perhaps nothing. As long as he understands the seriousness of loose cattle in the village, we can ask for nothing more."
With a twinkle in his eye, Mr. Wentworth added, "If the pub owner had kept his door closed, instead of wide open, the cow would never have wandered in. He may have to rethink his open door policy."
Mr. Thomas smiled and added, "Nothing says they must stay wide open, only that it should not be locked. But, I think his open door encourages more custom. We would not want to discourage his business, would we?"
Anne smiled and said, "Of course not. How would all the men get their gossip if the pub were closed? At least they all have a funny tale to tell about the cow who came to call."
After this light hearted consideration of village gossip, they turned to more general matters and their partners on the other sides also began to participate. Anne heard conversation near the foot of the table that concerned the season just finished in London. She recognized that the woman asking Elizabeth these questions did so with a smug smirk. Her daughter had recently married and was not nearly as handsome as Elizabeth. She had married a minor gentleman, which was not sufficient in Elizabeth's mind, but the woman was quite pleased with her daughter's match. Anne knew Elizabeth would once again be fretting about her single state after this reminder.
Anne turned to Mr. Wentworth and asked, "So, have you decided on a literacy program?"
He replied, "Yes. I have. Mr. Thomas and I are going to put together a program where we alternate as the teachers for these men. We have both spoken with solicitors, such as Mr. Shepherd, who have agreed that they would be able to provide employment if the men actually become literate."
Mr. Thomas added, "We will start with just these three. We have spoken with them and they are all enthusiastic about it."
Anne said, "That is wonderful. I will be interested to hear about their progress. What you are doing is true Christian charity. You are doing much more than giving them charity. You are helping them lift themselves."
Soon, the supper was concluded and the guests began to depart before dark arrived. Once again, the three Elliots presented a united front as they farewelled their guests. Once the last had departed, Elizabeth swept up to her room without a word to father or sister. Anne turned to her father and asked, "Father, did you enjoy the cards this afternoon? You seemed to be playing well."
"Yes, it was very pleasant. I won more than I lost, which is at it should be. Everyone was looking as well as can be expected. I think I looked particularly good this afternoon. I like the cut of this new coat."
Anne agreed, "Yes, it looks quite nice on you."
By this point, they had returned to the drawing room doors. Anne finished, "Well, good evening. I think I will also retire to my room." She then proceeded up the stairs as he returned to the drawing room to relax for a few moments.
The next day at breakfast, Sir Walter said to Elizabeth, "My dear, last night was quite a success. Since you come of age on your birthday next month, I believe we should plan a ball to celebrate."
Elizabeth considered for a moment, then said, "If that is what you want. After breakfast, let us put together a list and send out invitations." The two spent the morning planning the event. Anne joined them in the afternoon to assist with addressing the invitations. For the next few days, both Sir Walter and Elizabeth spent much of their time planning the ball.
After this card party, Mr. Wentworth would dine at Kellynch to make even numbers at the table when Elizabeth or Sir Walter entertained and were short of gentlemen. He was not bad looking (a requirement of Sir Walter) and had reasonable conversation (Elizabeth's requirement). Neither Sir Walter nor Elizabeth was interested in more than his presence, so neither ever had a conversation with him. Lady Russell found him acceptable.
Mr. Wentworth chose not to employ a cook or full-time housekeeper. He had a woman who came in for the day but she did not cook. She cleaned each morning and lefty by noon. He was a passable cook and supplied his own meals. Therefore, various single women in the parish kept his table well-furnished. However, many were trying to demonstrate their own skills and supplied treats rather than meals.
After visiting a new mother and her baby, they fell into conversation. He explained his failure to make a passable soup only the previous day. "It seems I needed something else. Not sure what. But it was so bland and tasteless."
Anne said, "I am afraid I am of no help. I do not cook. However, I would be happy to ask our cook for some suggestions for you. I could also ask her to send some basics along to ensure that you always have something eatable in the house."
He laughed, "There is always something to eat as so many young ladies leave me delicacies. However, for something heartier, I must supply that myself. I would appreciate your finding out what I did wrong with my soup. Thank you so much."
"Have you started your classes for our disabled fighting men?"
"I have. We are holding a class each Tuesday and Friday. On Tuesday, we meet in Monkford. On Friday, we meet in Kellynch. I teach the Tuesday, and Mr. Thomas the Friday. It will probably take quite some time, but they were all excited about the possibility of again holding gainful employment. They are quite motivated."
"How wonderful. I shall enjoy seeing your results with them."
After this conversation, Anne decided to deliver weekly baskets that could supplement the dainties supplied by the hopefuls trying to attract Mr. Wentworth. He accepted calls from his female parishioners only in the morning when Mrs. Slate was present. Appearances must be kept and he would not be found in a compromising situation. If one called in the afternoon, he met her outside the house.
Anne did talk to the Kellynch cook and found out he should be adding salt and a bay leaf to his soups to provide a deeper flavor. She passed this on with the first of her baskets. He agreed he had forgotten the salt and had not known of the usefulness of bay leaves.
Mr. Wentworth's addition to the neighborhood was the major difference between May 1805 and May 1806. In all other respects, for Anne, spring 1806 seemed a repeat of 1805. There were a few dinners and card parties at Kellynch. The Elliots attended a few affairs given by neighbors. The other difference was the proposed ball to celebrate Elizabeth's birthday.
Planning was underway for the ball in early June. That would provide a nice diversion. Anne visited parishioners in need, did a lot of piano playing, a fair amount of embroidery, and spent many afternoons with Lady Russell. There were very few discussions of the war. Anne marveled again at how a change of scenery provided such a change of topic for conversation. Where the Stevensons were very much interested in current affairs, everyone around Kellynch seemed to ignore them entirely. She surreptitiously read the newspaper each day to find out what was going on, then held mock discussions in her mind, playing first the part of her uncle, then of her grandmother. She mentioned these in her letters to her grandmother, so Lady Rachel started including her opinions of current affairs in her letters to Anne. These greatly helped Anne to feel more connected to the rest of the world.
Shortly after receiving one of these letters, Anne mentioned the war to Mr. Wentworth and asked his opinion. She found him well-informed about it and willing to talk. They frequently discussed the war after their joint charity visits. These were not the lively debates of South Park, but at least they were interesting. Remembering the discussion about Santo Domingo, she mentioned that action to Mr. Wentworth and found that he had many opinions as his brother had been involved. It was a stimulating discussion.
At the end of May, Mary left school for the summer holidays and went first to spend time at South Park with her grandmother. She would spend the entire month of June and most of July with her grandmother. She expected to come home to Kellynch in mid-July, then depart for school again at the beginning of September when the rest of the Elliots went to London for James' nuptials. She didn't bother to return to Kellynch for Elizabeth's ball as she would not have been allowed to attend. South Park should be much more entertaining.
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