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Chapter 22 The great escape

Friday 16th April

This evening we had a small family dinner before Lady Elizabeth leaves to stay at Studleigh Park for two weeks. Frederick, Lucy and Sarah were present and will stay the night before returning to Studleigh Park with Lady Elizabeth tomorrow. Richard made a small speech saying how very pleasant Lady Elizabeth’s stay had been and how we looked forward to hosting her, and Sir John if he is available, in the not-too-distant future. Then he surprised me but not Lady Elizabeth or her daughters apparently, by announcing that we would be holding a ball on Saturday 2nd May before Lady Elizabeth returns to Grasmere. I confess that it was something I had thought would be very pleasant to have, especially as I could renew my acquaintance with the young ladies that I met this week. However, the thought of the cost of a ball held me back from mentioning it to Richard as I would hate to be thought of as an extravagant wife.

I’m sure Frederick would have been happy to host a ball, but while Baby Elizabeth is so young and I am still feeding her, I would not willingly choose to leave the house for an evening, so hosting it at Marston House is most convenient for me, and I’m sure Richard thought of that. He really is the most considerate man that I know.

Friday 30th April
Tomorrow is the day of the ball, so this morning I held a brief meeting with Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson to confirm that all is in readiness. They have both organized many balls at Marston House, so I had no fear that anything was wanting. It did give me the opportunity to thank them both for their hard work and to request that they pass on my thanks to the other staff. I feel almost guilty that so much work is required so that we and the local gentry can enjoy an evening of conversation and dance.

As the meeting concluded, I asked if there were any other items to discuss. Mr Anderson cleared his throat.

“There is just one item ma’am; Eric, the footman who travelled with Lady Elizabeth requested the honour of a brief audience with you before he accompanies her to Studleigh Park. I told him that you might be too busy to see him, but I am honouring his request by telling you. I believe he wishes to thank you for the care that was taken of his wound.”

My first thought was that it was not really necessary to thank me since I had only done what any Christian woman would do, but then I had a second thought that a Christian woman would not appear to be too busy to find the time to meet with someone like Eric, a footman, who had shewn so much devotion to the family.

“I will see him, Mr Anderson; after the service he has provided to the family, I think it is appropriate that I do so. After the conclusion of this meeting, I will retire to the drawing room. Please bring him to see me there.”

“Of course, ma’am,” said Mr Anderson and bowed slightly. I believe he approved of my decision.

Ten minutes later there was a knock at the drawing room door and Mr Anderson and Eric entered. They both bowed and I nodded my head in acknowledgement.

“Eric, come forward. I am very pleased to see you and I also see that you no longer have a bandage on your arm.”

“No ma’am. Thanks to your insistence, I subjected myself to the approved medical procedures, and I am pleased to report that my wound has almost completed healing.”

He held up his arm and I could see that apart from a scar which no doubt he would proudly show off for the rest of his life, the wound was barely visible.

“You have performed a great service to Lady Elizabeth at the risk of own your life and I’m sure it will not be forgotten,” I said. Lady Elizabeth had informed me that she will be reporting details of the whole incident to Sir John, and she is sure that a reward will be given to Eric.

“I understand that a guard will be provided to travel with each stagecoach for the present, and that a reward has been offered for information resulting in the capture of Turpin and his gang, so we hope that soon the dangers of stagecoach travel will be greatly diminished,” I said.

“That is indeed good news, ma'am,” replied Eric. ”Thank you again for your kindness. I have otherwise enjoyed my visit to Oxford.”

With a bow, he and Mr Anderson left the room. I feel satisfied that I have done the right thing.

Sunday 2nd May
Yesterday was the day of the ball. It was a great pleasure to attend such an event once more, since there were so many months when I was ‘great with child’ as the Bible phrases it, and it was just not possible for me to attend such gatherings. Mama, Pappa and Emma were amongst the guests and Emma looks more grown up every time I see her. As usual, she stayed overnight, with her nurse staying in the same room as a comfort to her.

Lucy, Sarah and Freddie were also present. I took the opportunity to quietly congratulate Freddie on his impending fatherhood and I believe that Richard did the same. At present I do not believe that the news is common knowledge. Lucy is making the most of her opportunities to attend balls before she has to retire due to her impending confinement. I, and I’m sure, Lucy, noted Sarah dancing with several eligible young men. While it would be hard for her and Lucy to be parted, I’m sure Lucy thinks that it would be good for her to find her own husband. We will have to wait and see.

Oh what a joy it was to dance with the handsomest man in the room once more – I have really missed that. There were a number of young single ladies and gentlemen present, and the sight of all the women in their elegant gowns, their jewels glittering in the candelight, and the men in their evening dress never fails to delight me.

I have not mentioned a private meeting I had with Lady Elizabeth a few days back. The topic was one which I’m sure she would never have confided in me before I became a married woman.

“I am worried about my daughter Sarah,” she said. “She seems almost abnormally committed to her twin sister Lucy and as a result I fear that she will never accept an offer from a suitable gentleman because it will part her from Lucy’s constant company.”

“I understand your concern ma’am. I have heard it said that twins, especially girls, are often extremely close. If it were possible to find a suitable suitor who lives close to Studleigh Park, then Sarah could still see her sister frequently while enjoying conjugal happiness. There are several of the young men who will attend the ball who live in the proximity of Studleigh Park, are gentlemanly and of good fortune. Perhaps nature will take its course?”

“Thank you for your help my dear. I know you will do your best to find a good match for Sarah,” replied Lady Elizabeth. She paused and then, colouring slightly, she continued. “Like most mothers I suppose, I did have some concern that you, or indeed any young woman, would not be good enough for Richard but I freely admit I was wrong, and I could never have hoped for a better daughter-in-law.”

It was now my turn to blush as I replied, “Thank you very much, Lady Elizabeth, that compliment means a great deal to me.”

Indeed, I did see Sarah dancing twice with several of the young men at the ball, and she seemed to enjoy verbal intercourse with them. One can only hope for the best. I have noticed that Sarah seems more comfortable in the company of young ladies than gentlemen, and perhaps she is one of those women who are destined never to find marriage attractive to them – who knows?

Monday 3rd May.
Richard came home from his office with some news. It seems that the offer of a reward leading to the capture of Turpin and his gang has been successful. I had little doubt of it; these days some families are in dire poverty, and the reward of a few pounds might mean the difference between eating or going hungry. This is certainly good news for Lady Elizabeth, her maid and footman, not that Turpin is the only highwayman, but it will at least make the trip seem safer.

With some hesitation, I gave Lady Elizabeth a sketch of the Studleigh Park chapel with figures of the wedding party during the ceremony, all drawn from memory, so that Sir John and Lady Ellen might have a sense of the occasion.

“I am sorry it is such a poor representation; I hope to make something better when I have time,” I said.

“Nonsense my dear, it is a remarkably good representation of the event. You have a real talent with pencils and brushes,” replied Lady Elizabeth. That was very kind of her. I’m sure that the time will come in the future where by some means a permanent record of events which does not require artists’ tools will be found, but I do not intend to share such speculation with anyone and merely record it in my journal, lest I be considered crazed in my mind.

(Leonora’s speculation was proved correct only fourteen years later in 1827 when the French scientist Nicéphore Niepce recorded the first photochemical image he called a ‘heliograph’ of a view from his upstairs window in a farm in France. Dora L)

Tuesday 4th May.
Today we bade farewell to our visitors when they called by on their way from Studleigh Park, trusting that their journey back to Grasmere will be uneventful. Richard tells me that Turpin and his gang will be tried tomorrow, and he has little doubt of Turpin’s fate but his gang may be transported to New South Wales on the other side of the world. Quite frankly, the thought of a man being hanged makes me shiver, but they must all know the risk that they take.

Thursday 6th May
Richard came home in the evening in a sombre mood. He had not told me of the fate of the Turpin gang yesterday as he realized that I did not really wish to know, but now there was news of a very unusual nature.

“My dear, I did not tell you of the fate of Turpin and his gang at the trial. His accomplices are indeed to be transported to the Antipodes for the term of their natural lives, but as I predicted Turpin himself was sentenced to hang and this was to be carried out today. However, when the guards went to his cell to collect him this morning, he had escaped! No-one knows how it was effected, since the door was still locked and there was no evidence of any other means of escape. The whole thing remains a mystery. A posse was sent out to search for him but of course he will now be many miles away.

I puzzled over this unusual occurrence too but then a thought came to me.

“Tell me, dearest, did Turpin receive any women visitors last night?”

“I do not know, but in any event, they could not have smuggled a grown man away with them!”

“Well, it was done once before in the famous case of the Earl of Nithsdale’s escape from the Tower of London in the early eighteenth century; I read of it in one of my history books.”

“I am not familiar with the case, please tell me of it,” said Richard.

“William Maxwell, the fifth Earl Nithsdale was a Scottish peer, a Jacobite and Roman Catholic, he had been captured, and confined in the Tower of London. On the eve of his execution, his brave young wife, Winifred, having exhausted all possibilities of gaining a reprieve for him, visited him in the Tower with two female servants, one apparently a stout lady about the height of the Earl. They persuaded the guards, no doubt coins changed hands, to allow them to see the Earl. Once alone, the stout servant revealed that she was wearing two hooded cloaks and two gowns. Divesting herself of one of each, the Earl was persuaded to reluctantly don them.

The servants came and went from the cell on various errands and the guards by now were confused as to the number of persons in the cell. Eventually, the Earl, his face painted with makeup and holding a kerchief to his face to conceal his beard, left in the guise of the stout servant, apparently weeping and accompanied by his wife, who bravely returned to the cell. The other servants left but the guards could hear Lady Nithsdale seeming to carry on a conversation with her husband. When she finally left, she persuaded the guards that the Earl was at his prayers and begged that he not be disturbed until morning. This gave the party more time to escape. The Earl was smuggled by friends across the Channel and eventually made his way to Rome where, his wife, after returning to Scotland to ensure that his estate was passed onto his son, eventually joined him. They lived the rest of their lives in Rome at the court of the ‘Old Pretender’. As far as I am aware, he is the only man to escape from the Tower.”

“What an intriguing story, I wonder why I never heard of it before,” said Richard. “I shall certainly make enquiries tomorrow to see if Turpin too received female visitors.”

Friday 7th May
Upon his return home this evening, Richard instead of his usual salutation of a kiss on the lips, took my hand and kissed it instead. At my enquiring glance he said: “I pass on to you a respectful salutation from Mr Barry, the Sheriff. You were right, Turpin was visited by three women, one claiming to be his wife, and the other two his sisters, one being a stout woman about his height. When I passed on your suggestions on how the escape was effected, he first scowled and then burst out laughing.

“’I cannot help but admire their bravery and audacity,’ he said. ‘I doubt that a man would have invented such an ingenious scheme. If Turpin has a brain, he will travel as far from Oxford as possible, change his name, and if he has money left, perhaps buy a small farm and live a blameless life for the rest of his natural days. However, I fear the lure of easy money may draw him back to his old ways, and if he is again caught, he will be closely immured, and meet the fate he has at present escaped.

“I fear the Sheriff might be right,” I said. I dared not say so to Richard, but I could not but hope that Turpin would take the sensible path in recognition of the risk those women took to effect his escape, and not cast it all away for the sake of easy money. One thing that still puzzles me – I find it hard to believe that Turpin’s wife, if indeed she was such, could have heard of the Earl of Nithsdale’s escape which happened nearly a century ago. Perhaps the idea just came to her as it did to the Earl’s wife. Women can be very resourceful when the occasion arises, and brave too.

To be continued

Author's note: The crossdressing escape of the Earl of Nithsdale is a true story. He was the only person ever to escape from the Tower of London.

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Chapter 23 The Musical Evening

Monday 17th May
It is generally recognized that for a married lady of the ‘ton’, her first priority is to produce a son and heir for her husband, in order to ensure that the family property is secure. Indeed, the preference is to produce more than one male child in these times when life can often be short. An example is the case of my own Papa who became heir to his family after the unfortunate death of his elder brother. Her second priority is to oversee the running of her husband’s house, although the detailed workings are handled by her housekeeper and butler.

Otherwise, the life of a lady can be very pleasant indeed, consisting of visits to and from friends, walks in the countryside and such hobbies as music and needlework. Perhaps it is unfortunate for me that I seek to do more. I have yet to produce an heir for Richard and will be attempting to fulfil that duty in due time, but I do have other concerns. The war with Napoleon Bonaparte while thankfully not leading to battles on our own land, in nevertheless leading to a great deal of economic misery. In addition to the inevitable huge cost in terms of money and human lives, there is also the problem of the blockades of French ports by the British navy after blockades instituted by Napoleon himself to prevent trade with Britain while the war persists. In addition, there is a blockade of trade with America, and all this leads to considerable hardship particularly in the manufacturing industries who have goods stored against the resumption of trade, and many workmen laid off since there is no point in continuing to manufacture goods which can not find a market.

All this I have discovered from my daily perusal of the newspapers, and I hate to feel that I am living a luxurious lifestyle while rampant poverty exists only a short distance from Marston House. It can be said of course, that in employing around twenty staff, we are supporting not only our staff but their families too, but it is impractical to take on more staff who would find them selves with little to do.
With all this bearing on my mind, I have come up with a suggestion which I will put to Richard. In one of the many books that I read is an old Chinese proverb ‘it is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness’. I cannot solve the problem of countrywide poverty, but perhaps I can do a little to alleviate it in the area of Oxford?

My feeling is that to contact all our friends and ask for money to alleviate poverty would not be so successful if we did not offer them something in return. The favourite entertainment amongst our friends is a ball, but this is closely followed by a musical evening, a much cheaper entertainment to organise. My thought is that if we were to organize such an evening and ask our friends to make a financial contribution to the poor of the neighbourhood, we might well raise a significant amount of money. I am pleased to say that this idea received Richard’s approbation.

“But how will you ensure that the funds raised are distributed to the most deserving of the poor?” he asked, and I had an answer ready.

“My suggestion is that we ask some of the local clergy to work together and see that the funds are well used, since as part of their pastoral duties, they visit poor families and are in a position to know those worst affected.”

“Well, I can see that you have thought this through,” Richard said, “And it has my enthusiastic support. Please tell me anything I can do to help.”

Tomorrow I will contact Mama, and my sisters-in-law, Lucy and Sarah, and invite them for tea and to discuss my proposal. I feel quite excited about it already.

Friday 21st May
It was a very pleasant Spring Day today, and in the morning I took a walk around our garden where flowers are appearing everywhere, stopping for a while to discuss its progress with our Head Gardener, Arthur Perkins, a tall man with grizzled hair and gnarled hands from spending a lifetime with them deep in the soil, who is totally devoted to his work. We are indeed lucky to have his services.

In the afternoon, I sat in the drawing room to receive my guests with a view to discussing the finer details of the musical evening. Mama arrived first, accompanied by Emma, and soon afterwards the coach from Studleigh Park arrived, bearing Lucy and Sarah.

I was very pleased that they were equally enthusiastic about my idea. I revealed to them that I had already approached my pianoforte and harp tutors, asking if they would be kind enough to play solo works and accompany the singing and they both agreed to do so. I did say that they were not expected to give their services ‘gratis’, but in view of the good cause, this they both agreed to do. Sarah said that she would approach her guitar tutor Señor Segovia and see if he too would favour us with his presence and a musical contribution.

I now informed them about my proposal for clergy to distribute the money. I have written to Mr Henry Irvine of the Church of England, who incidentally officiated at Richard and my wedding; and Father Seamus Maguire of ‘St Michael at the North Gate’ Roman Catholic church, and hope that they can set aside their theological differences in the common good. After all, we all worship the one God.
It was decided that we would hold the evening in a month’s time on Saturday 20th June. This will give us time to approach our friends and relatives and do our best to fill our hall. I feel quite excited about it.

The afternoon concluded with tea and the ‘star attraction’, the appearance of my daughter Elizabeth. Everyone wanted to nurse her, and she raised no objection, being a most placid child. I could not help noticing Emma when it came to her turn. I am sure that one day she will be a wonderful mother.

Monday 24th May
I received three letters today; from Rev Henry Irvine and also from Father Maguire, both containing similar messages saying that they would be pleased to work with the other clergyman in the distribution of funds to deserving households and congratulating me on the proposed fund-raising event. This later comment caused me no little embarrassment; I only wish I had thought of it before. The third letter came from Sarah informing me that Señor Segovia will be pleased to offer his services gratis. I do hope that the three music teachers are approached by some of our guests, requesting tuition either for themselves or some of their children, this rewarding them for their generosity.

Now that everything seems to be assembling in a most satisfactory way, I will discuss the arrangements with Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson at our regular weekly meeting. They made a number of helpful suggestions including requesting Mrs Walker, the cook, to attend a meeting so that we could arrange the refreshments to be served. Once we know the number of visitors attending, this will help Mrs Walker with the amount of items to be served. There is never any wastage as the staff will always be happy to consume whatever is left over.

Monday 7th June
I am very pleased to record that we have had a wonderful response to our invitations and can expect about fifty people to attend the musical evening. Perhaps the only person not delighted with this number is Mrs Walker and her staff since it will involve a considerable amount of work for her in producing tarts, cakes and breads to accompany the cups of tea. Mrs Danvers assured me that Mrs Walker will cope very well, she just likes to give the impression that she will be overwhelmed. Nevertheless, I have suggested to Richard that we give her and her staff some monetary compensation for the extra work.

Tuesday 8th June
Today is a year and a day since Sir Frederick Fanshaw died, so his family is now officially out of mourning. I’m sure the young women in particular will be glad to be relieved of their black attire.

Saturday 19th June
A truly wonderful and successful evening has been held to raise money for the poor. Our hall was beautifully decorated and a small dais built at one end for the performers. The pianoforte and the pedal harp were installed , and a third seat provided for the guitarist. Three further seats towards the rear of the dais were provided for the three singers, Sarah, Lucy and myself. This would be the largest audience before which we have performed.

Richard and I as the hosts, stood at the entrance to the hall to greet our guests. I now know many of them, but not the ones who are friends of friends

Fifty seats had been set up in the hall, and I’m pleased to say that they were all filled and a few extra were added at the rear of the hall. This was very gratifying. Sarah, Lucy and I felt a little nervous when the time came for us to take our places on the dais. Our accompanists, being professional musicians all looked very calm, having no doubt performed before much larger audiences. When all was ready, Richard stepped up onto the dais to introduce the evening. He is an accomplished public speaker, and I am pleased that he was making the introductions and not me.

First, he introduced us all and explained the reason for the evening as a fund-raiser for the poor. Then he explained how the funds would be distributed by the two reverend gentlemen who had honoured us with their presence. Then it was time for the first item. Sarah was to sing the first song, which was ‘Greensleeves’, where she was accompanied by Señor Segovia on the guitar. While there is a persistent rumour that it was written by King Henry VIII to serenade Anne Boleyn, in fact it did not appear in England until the reign of his daughter Elizabeth. Sarah sang it very well indeed and received appropriately enthusiastic applause.

My pianoforte tutor, Signor Clementi played a charming piece of his own composition which was very well received, and following this I sang ‘The Soldier’s Widow, or Return from Waterloo’, most appropriate in the circumstances, since many of the poorest people in the country are widows of soldiers killed at Waterloo, some with more than one small child, who find living extremely hard since they do not receive a pension and have to make money where they can. Signor Clementi accompanied me on the pianoforte. I did my best to infuse my performance with as much pathos as possible and was rewarded by several of the ladies dabbing their eyes.

Next on the program was a Welsh air played by Mr Thomas Evans, my harp tutor, who then accompanied Lucy singing ‘No one Shall Govern Me’, a song with a moral for young ladies.

Several more pieces were played, including the three of us singing ‘Every Valley Shall be Exalted’ from Mr Handel’s oratorio ‘Messiah’.

The final piece was also by Mr Handel, his famous harp concerto. This is usually played by a solo harp accompanied by a string orchestra, but our three musicians had worked together to provide the accompaniment by the pianoforte and guitar, and it was surprisingly effective and received rapturous applause.

At the conclusion of the concert, Richard announced that supper was served in the dining room and that he and Mr Anderson, our butler, would be available in a small room off the dining room to receive donations and issue receipts. While they were busy doing this, I was circulating amongst our guests and thanking them for their attendance.

When the last of our guests had left, Richard and Mr Anderson had collated and checked the amount collected.

“How much do you think we have raised, Leonora?” Richard asked.

“Perhaps two hundred pounds?” I suggested, while thinking that that might be overly optimistic.

Richard smiled. “You are going to be pleasantly surprised; we have four hundred and twenty pounds!”

I confess I was amazed, never expecting such generosity.

“That is wonderful news, Richard. We will be able to relieve much poverty with such a sum.”

I confess I was feeling very tired after such an exciting day, and after telling Lucy and Sarah the good news before they returned to Studleigh Park, I decided to record the evening in my journal on Sunday, and was soon in bed.

Continuing on Sunday: today I discussed with Richard how such a large sum of money will be distributed. He is concerned that if half of the sum is given to each of the ministers, word may circulate and they might be robbed. Instead, his feeling is that the money should be given out in tranches of fifty pounds so that if it is stolen, not all will be lost. He has written to both the clergymen suggesting this for their own safety. I think it is an excellent idea.

Tuesday 22nd June.
Richard has received a letter from both clergymen agreeing to his proposal, and they will be calling in tomorrow, each to receive the first tranche. We look forward to receiving reports on how well the distribution of money has improved lives.

To be continued

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Chapter 4 A curious vision, a visit to Bath and a rescue

Tuesday 29th June
I have received a letter from Mama. She, Papa and Emma are travelling to Bath for a while. It seems that Papa has been suffering from gout for some time, something of which I was unaware, and like so many men, he refused to do anything about it, but Mama finally persuaded him to consult a physician who has recommended a reduction of certain foods and alcohol, plus bathing and taking the waters at Bath. They have rented a house for a month and have plenty of room if we would like to visit and stay with them for as long as we like, I showed Richard the letter and he gave it his approbation.

“We have seen nothing but Oxford for some time and I think a change of scenery would do us good,” was his comment.

This will be the first time we have travelled anywhere since Elizabeth was born, but she is a sturdy child and I anticipate no problems in taking her in the coach. Anna will come with us as well as Marie, Robert, a general maid and footman in addition to the coach driver. Now that the weather is warm, I anticipate no problems in travel. Anna will have to travel within the coach to look after Elizabeth, which means that Marie should also travel in like manner so that there will be no jealousy.
I have spoken to Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson, explaining that we will be away for a short while and giving the address of Mama and Papa’s rented house in Bath should there be anything of importance about which they will need to contact us. Otherwise, Richard and I have great confidence in their ability to manage the running of Marston House while we are away. Mr Anderson will also issue more tranches of the money to the clergymen as required.

Monday 12th July.
This morning, which was a fine day, we set off from Oxford. We took the main road south-west and eventually reached Swindon, where, after pausing for a light meal, we turned south and upon reaching Marlborough, Richard announced that this would be our stop for the night. We were put up at a very pleasant inn with comfortable beds and good food.

Tuesday 13th July
Anyone reading this journal in the future may well choose to consider the events recorded on this day as a flight of fantasy, and that of course is their prerogative. I merely record that if it was, then I can only say that everything that happened to me this day appeared so real that I would be prepared to take an oath on the Bible that it is not the invention of an overheated mind.

A fine sunny day greeted us, and after breakfasting, we entered the coach and to my surprise instead of heading west, we continued to travel south. When I asked Richard politely if this was not out of our way, he smiled mysteriously and said that there was a reason for travelling this way and all would be revealed in good time. The sign posts were indicating that we were travelling towards Salisbury and I thought that Richard must want to show me the famous cathedral which I was not averse to viewing. I had read that the spire is the tallest in Britain. However, to my surprise, some miles short of the expected destination we took a road travelling west which was signposted towards Salisbury Plain, and eventually, our destination revealed itself on the horizon – Stonehenge!

I gasped, and Richard’s face broke out into a broad smile of satisfaction.

“My dear, since we first met in a Druid’s circle in Cumberland, I thought you would like to see the most famous Druid’s circle of them all.”

“You are so thoughtful my dear,” I replied. “I have read about it and seen many illustrations, but to see the actual monument will be most interesting.”

As we drew closer, the size of the stone pillars became apparent and the fact that some still bear stone lintels, makes me wonder how the ancients who constructed it managed to achieve such a feat while lacking any of the modern tools we use.

Our coach drew up a short distance from the circle and Richard suggested that everyone alight and stretch their legs. I took up my sketch pad, and Richard took my hand and we walked to the stones which now towered above us. Here we parted company for a moment and began to wander amongst them, marvelling at their size. It was then that I started to feel somewhat faint. I reached out to a nearby sarsen. placing my palm against it to steady myself. A thrill like static electricity seemed to grow in my hand and began to move slowly up my arm, which disturbed me. I could see Richard a short distance away and decided not to call and disturb him, sure that it was my imagination.

The air started to quiver like a heat haze, and it seemed to me that there were other people walking amongst the stones. Although their outlines were slightly indistinct, their attire seemed quite incongruous with the time in which I live. Indeed, the women seemed almost dressed as men, all wearing britches instead of gowns. I began to feel frightened as this drew up a long-buried memory from my visit to the Cumberland stone circle. I tried to detach my hand from the stone, but it appeared to be glued to it. Now I was really frightened, and I found my voice and called out to Richard. He heard my anguished cry and came running and caught me in his arms as I felt I was about to faint. Suddenly the grip the stone seemed to have on my hand was broken.

“What is it my dear?” Richard cried. “You look as white as a sheet.”

“Oh my darling!” I gasped. “Please do not think me mad, but I think there is some strange power in stone circles to which I react badly.”

Richard looked at me seriously. “I do not think you mad, my darling. I remember how you nearly fainted in Cumberland. You are a sensitive person, and I can well believe that you are susceptible to things which others are not. I am indeed truly sorry I brought you here.”

“Please do not castigate yourself my dear; you were not to know, and you did it kindly to give me pleasure. Even I did not know until this moment that I would react so. I wonder why the circles are built where they are. Is there some mysterious power present? Perhaps the ancients knew things that are mysteries to us. If you keep hold of me now and lead me from the circle, I’m sure I will be alright.”
I said nothing about the mysteriously dressed figures I had seen for fear he would really think me mentally deranged.

There was a wooden seat outside the circle and Richard led me to it and plied me with his hip flask once more which soon had me restored. I still clung to his hand but now I smiled at him: “You are my saviour once more, my darling.”

Richard leaned over and kissed me. “I will always be here for you my darling,” he said.

When I was fully restored and my colour returned, we walked back to the coach, hand in hand, having decided that we would say nothing of this to the others, although I did see Marie give me a curious look. She misses very little. Tonight we are staying in Warminster, and tomorrow it will be a relatively short distance to Bath. In my prayers tonight, I will thank God for sending me Richard and for his actions in saving me from a fate which I dare not even think about.

Wednesday 14th July
We arrived in Bath in the early afternoon. We had the address of the house which Papa has rented but no idea where it was located. Ronald, our coachman, being resourceful, drew up alongside a horse and cart and enquired of the driver the street’s location, which being given, Richard threw the man a coin, and soon we were drawing up outside the house. I suspect Emma had been watching out for us as the coach had barely stopped when the front door opened and there she was on the front step, waving to us.

We all alighted and were shown into the house. The housekeeper, a Mrs Barclay curtseyed and introduced herself, informing us that Mama and Papa were awaiting us in the drawing room, so we proceeded there. As is my custom, I curtseyed to my parents out of respect for them, and Richard bowed. They welcomed us very cordially. It is true that I do not see them so often now that I am a married woman, and I do miss them and Emma. Tonight will be the first night we have all slept under the same roof since I was married.

I was a little concerned to see that Papa was resting his right foot on a low footstool and that it was bandaged. He saw me looking and smiled.

“One of the trials of old age, my dear. I am suffering from gout just like the ancient Egyptians did, and my physician has advised me to come here and take the waters for my health’s sake.”

“I’m sorry to hear that, Papa. Has your physician suggested any other way of curing it?”

“Yes he has but I will explain it to you later. I’m sure you wish to change after your journey.”

That is my Papa, always concerned with other people’s comfort.

After I had changed and came down to the drawing room, I found Papa on his own, reading a book, but he was quite willing to tell me of his physician’s recommendations.

“He is a young man and was recommended to me by some of my fellow Deans. I think some of the older medical men are rather set in their ways and seem to suggest blood letting as a ‘cure-all’ which I frankly don’t believe. I had to restrain them from bleeding you when you were sick as I felt you needed all your blood to aid your recovery.”

“I am indeed grateful for that, Papa. I’m sure you made the right decision.”

“Dr Clarke has some interest in gout and has undertaken research as to the cause of it, which he deems to be a noxious chemical developed within the blood. He has observed that it is more frequent in the upper classes than working classes, except for those who consume a great deal of beer. Thus, the affliction is least experienced with women of the working classes, who drink little beer and can also not afford to eat much red meat. From this he has recommended that I not eat red meat more than twice a week and restrict my intake of wine and spirits. He also recommends that I drink plenty of water which might flush the causative agent out of my blood. It was at his recommendation that I decided to come to Bath to drink the waters and also bathe in the pools.”

“And have you been here long enough to experience any improvement in the condition?” I asked.

Papa smiled, “If I said that I do it might only be wishful thinking, but what I can say is that I feel no worse than before we arrive here. Anyway, enough about me, my dear, how are you? It looks as if married life agrees with you.”

I confess I blushed as I replied, “It is indeed very agreeable, Papa, and of course becoming a mother as well as a wife is a wonderful experience.”

“Indeed! I may be biased but I do feel that my granddaughter is the most beautiful baby I have seen since you and your brother and sister were born. I hope your Mama and I can see her soon.”

“Of course. I have a very capable young nursery maid who dotes on her which relieves me of a lot of duties.” I very nearly commented about me feeding Elizabeth, but stopped myself in time. A Papa does not need to hear about such things!
Shortly afterwards, Anna brought Elizabeth down to see her grandparents, who confirmed that she is the most beautiful baby they have seen since we, their children were born. Mama naturally wanted to nurse her and she seemed to smile at Mama which pleased her greatly.

Thursday 15th July
Today was a day for rest and relaxation after our trip, but I confess I felt a little restless, so after I fed Elizabeth, Mama suggested that she, I and Emma walk down to the Roman Baths which are a sight that everyone visiting Bath must see. We invited Richard to accompany us, but he elected to stay and keep Papa company rather than leave him on his own. Knowing Papa as I do, I am sure that once he has some of his books, he is never lonely, but he was too polite to reject Richard’s offer. They do get on very well and I am grateful for that.

The Baths are only about ten minutes’ walk from the house, so we decided not to take the carriage. Bath is such a beautiful town, I would happily live here if I did not live in Oxford. If a single word was required to describe it, that word would be ‘elegant’. I could not but help admiring the houses, many of which are built in terraces and are elegance personified, and so are the ladies and gentlemen that we saw promenading past us, the gentlemen gallantly raising their hats to us, and the ladies beautifully dressed in the latest fashions nodding their heads as we exchanged greetings. I exchanged glances with Mama and I suspect we will both be visiting our dressmakers when we return to Oxford.

Arriving at the Baths, Mama informed me that the buildings I could see were by no means Roman as the baths had fallen into disuse after the Romans left Britain in the fourth century and were not restored until many years later. Upon entering the building, I was surprised to see a flight of steps leading down to the baths. Ground level has certainly risen many feet since the time of the Romans. We walked along the side of the main pool, as Mama informed me of some of the history she had learned.

“The Romans called this site ‘Aquae Sulis’ – the ‘waters of Sulis’ after the name of the local god whom they identified with Minerva. This is called the ‘Great Bath’, and as you can see, there are people bathing in it, which we can do on another day if you are interested?”

“I would indeed, since it is supposed to be good for the health,” I replied. It was at that moment that I observed a young girl in the middle of the pool who appeared to be in distress. She was waving her arms around, splashing the water, and then her head disappeared below the surface. I looked at the other bathers, but nobody seemed to be taking any notice. Presumably they thought she was just enjoying herself, but I was quite sure she wasn’t.

I called out, “That young lady is in trouble; somebody help her!” but nobody took any notice. I’m really not sure what happened next but suddenly I found myself in the pool and swimming towards where her head had again disappeared below the surface. Yes, I was swimming, but how could that be since I had never received instruction in the exercise? There was no time to think as I reached the point at which the girl had disappeared and putting my head down to look below the surface, I fortunately found her a few feet away, and slowly sinking through the water.
I reached down and took hold of her arm, and suddenly she came to life as our heads broke the surface of the water and she clung to my neck, nearly choking me.
“Do not be afraid!” I gasped “I will save you!”

For a moment I was seriously concerned that we would both drown. Fortunately, she drew confidence from my voice, she relaxed her grip and I managed to start heading for the pool side, one hand holding her and the other paddling. By now other swimmers had realised the situation and came over to help me with the rescue. When we arrived at the poolside, willing hands helped to pull both of us out of the pool and we sat on the stone edge, gasping for air.

An elegantly dressed lady rushed towards us and immediately put her arms around the young girl who was coughing up water, crying out ‘Oh my darling, I thought you were about to die!”. Then turning to me she said, “I cannot begin to thank you enough madam, you have saved my daughter from certain death. I ran to seek help since I am unable to swim, but fortunately you were there to assist her before I could obtain help.”

“I was happy to assist her, madam,” I replied while still coughing up some pool water. “Thank the Lord I was present at the right time.”

By now Mama was present together with Emma who looked quite frightened.

“My darling, I am so proud of you,” she said. “I had no idea that you could swim.”

“Neither did I, Mama,” I said. “Perhaps it is instinctive, just like a dog dropped into a pool would know how to swim.”

Fortunately, someone from the pool’s staff had now appeared with blankets for me and the young girl, since now that we were out of the warm water and in the slightly chilly air, we were both shivering.

“We must take you home to divest yourself of those wet clothes, darling,” said Mama. “We certainly don’t want a repetition of the last time you caught a chill.”

“That is good advice,” said the mother of the little girl. “I shall follow it too, but please let me thank you again for your rescue of my only daughter. I will never forget it.”

I managed a smile through chattering teeth, and we parted company. Mama asked a staff member to arrange a coach for us since it was not practical for me to walk to the house, and a few minutes later, one pulled up at the front door and we were swiftly conveyed back to the rented house.

During the few minutes travel, Mama suddenly said “My goodness! In all the excitement, I’ve just realized that I did not introduce myself to the lady whose daughter you saved, but I am sure she is upper class, maybe even of the nobility.”

“I think you can be forgiven for that, Mama,” I said. “It was a most unusual situation.”

When Richard saw my condition, he looked quite shocked, but Mama explained what had happened in a few words and I was swiftly conveyed to my bedroom where Marie assisted me to undress and thoroughly dried me with large towels. I felt a lot better. Once in my nightgown, Mama insisted that I retire to bed, and she notified Richard who came up to see me.

“My darling, you will be the talk of the town! What a wonderful thing you did in rescuing the little girl. I am so proud of you.”

I managed a smile. “Dearest, it all seems like a dream. Nobody has ever taught me to swim, and yet it was such an emergency that I found myself in the water before I realized, and swimming to rescue her.”

“Thank goodness you didn’t realise that you didn’t know how to swim or there might have been a double tragedy. It doesn’t bear thinking about,” he said.

“Well, ‘all’s well that ends well’ as Mr Shakespeare says,” I replied.

At that moment, Anna appeared and after excusing herself said that Elizabeth was in want of some nourishment, so she was brought to me to assuage her hunger pangs, with Richard looking on fondly..

Afterwards I suddenly felt very tired and was soon asleep so soundly, I’m sure I did not stir when Richard joined me in bed.

Friday 16th July
Today really was to be a day of rest after yesterday’s dramatic rescue. In the morning I was sitting near the window of the drawing room, and idly looking upon the passing parade in the street below, when a fine-looking coach and four proceeded down the street and stopped outside our house. There was a coat of arms on the door, and a footman in livery stepped down and disappeared from view as he walked up to the front door and rang the bell.

A moment later, the house footman knocked on the door, entered and bowed.
“Excuse me sir, madam; a coach has arrived with a Lady Pendragon who is enquiring if Mrs d’Anglais might be ‘at home’.”

At the same time, looking out of the window, I saw the face of a lady in the carriage, and it was the mother of the little girl I rescued yesterday. I conveyed this information to my parents.

“Oh my goodness, and here we are in Undress,” said Mama. “We cannot keep her waiting while we change so we will just have to excuse ourselves. Please show her in Giles, and ask cook to prepare tea and some cakes in case they are needed.”

(Note: the term ‘Undress’ in Regency times indicated a simpler form of dress worn by many ladies in the morning when they were not expecting visitors. They would change in the afternoon prior to receiving guests or visiting them. J.D.)

Papa hurriedly removed his foot from the small stool where he rested it and slipped on his shoe.

A few minutes later, Lady Pendragon and her daughter were shown into the drawing room. I hardly recognised her daughter from the bedraggled young girl I had rescued. Now she was wearing a pretty dress, and her golden hair was in ringlets surrounding a sweet face. I curtseyed and took it upon myself to make the introductions.

“Lady Pendragon, may I introduce my parents, Professor Sir Robert Bolton of Oxford University, my Mama, Lady Bolton, and my husband Richard d’Anglais?”

Lady Pendragon smiled and acknowledged my mother’s curtsey and my father’s and Richard’s bow, with a smile and a nod of her head.

“May I in turn introduce my daughter Emily?”

We all smiled at Emily and she gave a pretty curtsey.

“Please be seated, Lady Pendragon,” I said, and she and her daughter took a seat on the sofa, and we all sat down.

Mama said. “Lady Pendragon, please excuse us appearing in Undress, but we were not expecting callers since we are visitors here.”

Lady Pendragon responded, “It is I who should apologise for arriving unannounced in the morning, but I hope you will forgive me when I explain the reason why. I am expecting my husband, Lord Pendragon, about noon and we will be travelling to London. I could not possibly leave without thanking you properly, Mrs d’Anglais, for saving my daughter’s life.”

“I am very happy that I was present and saw that Emily was in distress,” I replied.

“Well, other people were present, but you were the only one who realised that she was in desperate need of assistance. Emily has brought you a small gift as a token of appreciation for what you did, although nothing can really express our gratitude.”

She looked at Emily, whom I now saw for the first time was holding a small box. She arose, walked over to me, curtseyed again and handed the box to me. When I unwrapped it, I had to stifle a gasp. It was a beautiful lady’s watch with a gold case and chain for hanging around my neck.

“Oh, this is beautiful, Lady Pendragon. Thank you very much. I will certainly think of you and Emily every time I wear it.”

She smiled. “I am glad it is to your taste.”

Mama said, “Would you like to take a cup of tea with us, Lady Pendragon?”

“Yes indeed, thank you for offering,” she said. Mama rang the bell, and the maid and footman entered with the crockery, cutlery and a plate of small cakes. I’m not sure whether Lady Pendragon really wanted tea, but she has perfect manners so did not refuse the offer.

As the conversation proceeded during tea, it transpired that her husband Lord Pendragon is the Duke of Cornwall, so she is in fact a Duchess. Mama managed to include in the conversation that Papa is Dean of -------- College at Oxford.
“Our family seat, Pendragon Castle, is near Launceston (which she pronounced ‘Laun-stan’),” said Lady Pendragon, “If you ever visit the area, I hope you will write and let us know as we would greatly enjoy meeting you again.”

“It would be a great pleasure to meet you, and also Lord Pendragon if he is at home,” said Papa.

Soon afterwards Lady and Miss Pendragon took their leave in order to return to their house in the Royal Crescent Bath to await the arrival of Lord Pendragon. The family gathered around to examine my watch which is really beautiful, and I will certainly treasure it.

(Note: While the first woman’s wristwatch or ‘wristlet’ was made for the Queen of Naples in 1810, at this time if a Regency lady wore a watch at all then they were mounted on a chain to be worn around her neck, often as a piece of jewelry. J.D.)

To be continue

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Chapter 25 The ball in the Pump Room

Saturday 17th July
Richard suggested today that we have a walk around Bath, just the two of us. After attending to Elizabeth’s needs, I left her in the capable hands of Anna, while making sure that she knew where we would be if an emergency arose. We walked past the Royal Crescent where Lord and Lady Pendragon own a house, safe in the knowledge that they will not be there, having travelled to London. It is indeed a spectacular series of thirty houses, and I image most are owned by the aristocracy. Another notable collection of houses is the Circus where the houses form a circle only broken by roads to allow entry and exit..

It seems that a certain ‘Beau’ Nash was famous for making the town a centre for fashionable people when he arrived in the early eighteenth century. He became the indisputable ‘King of Bath’, arranging for the construction of some notable buildings including the Pump Room at the Baths, and also the Assembly Rooms. He also wrote the rules of behaviour including the banning of duels, since he achieved his position after the previous occupier of the position was killed in a duel.

We also viewed Pultney Bridge across the River Avon which is unusual in having buildings on it like the old London Bridge; then Bath Abbey which is a magnificent building and unusually has a decoration of ladders with angels ascending and descending to and from Heaven and earth on either side of the main entrance, apparently inspired by the dream of the Bishop of Bath and Wells at the time it was built. Originally it was mentioned in the Book of Genesis, so perhaps that inspired the bishop’s dream?

Finally, we arrived at the Roman Baths, the scene of my dramatic rescue of Emily. At first I was somewhat reluctant to enter for fear of being recognized and this fear was fulfilled but in a very nice way when we were welcomed by the staff, who caused me many blushes with their effusive expressions of admiration. When we finally reached the pool where the drama had ensued, Richard expressed his surprise and admiration at what I had achieved.

After this we went to the Pump Room, where the waters are available for tasting. It is a truly remarkable building, with a beautifully decorated interior, and with a balcony at one end where I surmised that musicians play. It is a popular venue for balls, and we saw a notice to indicate that one will take place on Saturday in a week’s time and Richard suggested that I might like to attend. I love dancing, so had no hesitation in acquiescing to his suggestion. Perhaps, Mama, Papa and Emma will attend too. When we enquired about purchasing tickets, the manager of the Baths informed us that they would have great pleasure in providing my whole family with complimentary entry. That was very kind of him.

Friday 23rd July
The week has seen much inclement weather so much of the time has been spent indoors. Elizabeth is a constant source of entertainment for the whole family, despite being only two months old. She is such a sweet child, with an excellent temperament, something for which I am truly grateful since she allows me to get sufficient uninterrupted sleep, which I have heard is not always the case with babies. I hope her siblings to come are equally placid. Anna is an excellent nursery maid and as besotted with her as I am. I expect that one day she will leave us to marry and have children of her own, but for the present I am very happy that she is with us and I can always leave Eliabeth in her care with complete confidence.

Tomorrow is the ball at the Pump Room and Marie and I are deciding what I should wear. I am so fortunate to have a wonderful selection of gowns, even though the number I brought with me is only a small part of my total wardrobe. Richard is so generous, always suggesting that I might like to buy something new to wear. I am cognisant of the fact that a wife must present well as her husband’s companion, but I think I must be innately frugal because I always think that the money could be put to better use.

Depending on what time we arrive home from the ball, I may or may not write in my journal tomorrow.

Sunday 25th July
We attended a service at Bath Abbey this morning. The singing of the choir was very fine and the organ playing and its sound, magnificent. The bishop was in attendance and greeted the congregation at the door as we exited. To my surprise it seems that my exploits in the pool have become known even to him since he said that God will bless me for my good work in rescuing Emily. It hardly requires recording that I blushed at his remarks.

However, now to a report of the ball in the Pump Room last night. What a wonderful evening it was. Our whole family attended, the coach taking us to the door to relieve Papa of the need to walk any great distance. He assures me that his gout symptoms are improving, but nonetheless, walking can be painful.

When we entered the room, which sparkled with the light of thousands of candles, the dancing had already started. The orchestra was excellent, and the sight of the ladies in their beautiful gowns and the men in their evening dress moving in unison around the dance floor was very fine indeed. We found our five reserved seats and were glad we had been presented with them since the room was quite full.

Before long, I had a dance with Richard and then he danced with Mama since Papa’s gout has not yet recovered enough for him to dance. Later I danced with Richard again, and as we were returning to our seats we noticed that there was a very distinguished-looking gentleman walking across the room to address Mama and Papa.
Papa rose to accept his greeting and as we resumed our seats, I heard him bow and say “Excuse me introducing myself, sir, madam, but we have no mutual friend to undertake the task for us. My name is Sir Michael Fitzroy, a resident of Bath.”

Papa also bowed, and said “I am very pleased to meet you, sir. I am Professor Sir Robert Bolton of Oxford University. Allow me to introduce my wife, Lady Bolton, my younger daughter Emma, and my elder daughter and her husband, Mr and Mrs d’Anglais.” Emma stood and curtseyed.

By now we were standing and Richard bowed and I curtseyed. Sir Michael said, “Pardon me if I am mistaken, but are you related to the d’Anglais of Grasmere, sir?”

Richard smiled. “Yes indeed, they are my parents and uncle, sir.”

“This is indeed a coincidence – my late father was at Oxford with your father and they were quite friendly, but lost touch after graduation since they lived in different parts of the country.”

“I will mention it to my father when I see him next,” said Richard.

Sir Michael then continued, “But I am neglecting the primary reason I approached you. My family is seated yonder, including my wife, and my twelve-year-old son Henry who has been taking dancing lessons and is reported to be becoming quite proficient. He was hoping to ask someone near to his own age to dance but only recently noticed the presence of your young daughter. He has begged me to act as his emissary and enquire if Miss Bolton might be willing to dance with him?”

It was obvious to me that Emma was already looking at young Henry in a very positive fashion. She is now ten, but of course girls do mature more quickly than boys, so a two year gap in their ages was of no consequence. She looked at Mama who said. “If you would like to dance with Master Fitzroy, I have no objection.” I could see that her permission was accepted with great pleasure, as Emma said, “Yes please.”

Sir Michael said “In that case I will ask Henry to come over and introduce himself” and he turned and beckoned to his young son, who crossed the room with some alacrity. Upon being informed of Emma’s name, he bowed and said “Miss Bolton, may I have the pleasure of the next dance?”

Emma stood, curtseyed and replied “With pleasure, Mr Fitzroy.” Young Henry offered his hand and led her onto the dance floor. I looked at Richard and he immediately understood that we could keep a closer eye upon the young couple of we were also on the dance floor and near them, so I took his hand and we joined the dance.

I was pleased to see that both the young people were dancing very proficiently and obviously enjoying themselves greatly. At the conclusion of the second dance, young Master Fitzroy led Emma back to her seat, and bowing, thanked her for the dance. Emma curtseyed and thanked him too. It was all very prettily done, and I confess I was at some pains not to smile broadly in case they thought I was making fun of them.

Following the convention that unmarried couples may only dance two sets together, later Henry asked Emma for another dance and this time we observed them from our seats.

Mama whispered to me “It seems my little girl is growing up!”

I smiled and responded, “It really does seem to happen earlier nowadays!”.

Friday 30th July
We have been spending a delightful time at Bath, walking about the town admiring the elegant buildings most days, and visiting the display of Roman artifacts at the Baths. I have had the opportunity to discuss the archaeology of the site with Papa who is as always a fount of knowledge. He assures me that there is still plenty of interesting sites to be found throughout the country, some of which probably won’t even be discovered in our lifetimes.

“That is not a bad thing,” he explained, “Since I’m sure that in the future, techniques of excavation will probably surpass our own and discover even more amazing things about the past.”

I have really enjoyed my time with my family, being my parents’ daughter once more, not that I would for a moment give up being Richard’s wife which is the most wonderful state I could imagine.

Today, in an overly casual manner, Emma asked me if the family might be attending the ball at the Pump Room tomorrow. Dear child, she thought she was being very clever, but I knew immediately that young Henry Fitzroy must have mentioned the intention of his family to attend, and she was anxious to see him one more time before Richard and I return to Oxford. It is unlikely that our parents will attend another ball once we are gone, with Papa still suffering from gout, even though his recovery is certainly making progress.

I promised to discuss it with Richard and also Mama and Papa. Mama smiled when I broached the subject. She too immediately discerned the reason for Emma’s interest. As a result, the whole family will attend a final ball before we return to Oxford, and young Emma could scarcely contain her excitement when I imparted the news to her. I confess that I had great difficulty in not teasing her about it, but to do so would be cruel.

Saturday 31st July
This evening we attended the ball in the Pump Room, and to our great surprise, who should be there but the Fitzroys! Once again Sir Michael approached us and asked if his son would be making a nuisance of himself if he requested a dance with Emma once more. Upon being reassured that his approach would be acceptable to us, young Henry approached once more and was the epitome of politeness as he bowed to us all in turn, and finally to Emma who returned his greeting with a curtsey.
When she returned from the set of two dances, Emma looked nervous, and the reason soon became apparent.

“Mama, Papa, Henry wonders if you would give him permission to write to me so that we can maintain our friendship?” she said with a blush.

Mama was obviously ready for this request, for she immediately replied, “Your Papa and I will give our permission with two conditions; first, Henry’s parents must agree, and if they do so, you must show me any correspondence you receive from Henry, and also your replies to him.”

“Oh thank you Mama, Papa, of course I agree to that,” Emma replied.

“Because Papa finds it difficult to walk, would you mind approaching them Richard and ask if they would be kind enough to come and discuss this request with us? In the meantime, Emma, Henry may ask you for another dance.”

The result of the conversation with the two sets of parents was that Emma and Henry obtained permission to correspond.

Later, I asked Mama in a joking manner if she was match-making? She blushed slightly and looking very severe said “Of course not, it is at least eight years until Emma could consider marriage!”

“Of course; and both she and Henry will doubtless meet many potential partners before then. What was I thinking?” I said, doing my best to keep a straight face.
We both laughed,

Monday 2nd August.
Today we left Bath for home at Oxford. I confess I was sorry to leave my parents, who will stay on for another month, but Papa is showing definite signs of improvement, and Richard has his legal responsibilities to attend to. It has certainly been an interesting time spent in Bath. I have written to Mrs Danvers to tell her to expect us tomorrow evening. We are staying in an hotel at Cirencester tonight and intend to leave early in the morning.

To be continued

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Chapter 26 A strange dream

Tuesday 3rd August.
We arrived home in the evening and as expected everything was ready for our reception. It is good to be home even though we enjoyed our sojourn with my parents and sister very much. To my surprise it seems that news of my aquatic adventure had somehow preceded us , and once again I had to accept with grace the congratulations of Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson. I think that the fact that I can swim came as much of a surprise to them as it did to me!

Wednesday 4th August
I wrote to Freddie, Lucy and Sarah today to advise them that we are back in Oxford and inviting them to call for tea when convenient. I had a meeting with Mr Anderson and Mrs Danvers and was pleased to hear that everything had run smoothly while we were away and that there were no problems to address.

Friday 6th August
Today, Freddie, Lucy and Sarah came for tea. Lucy is now very definitely with child, and shared with me the news that she expects her confinement to be in November. As might be expected, she is very interested in Elizabeth’s development. She is now six months old. She smiles at me, Richard and Anna and is making cooing noises as well as reaching out to be picked up and absorbing herself with the little doll which she was given by Lucy. She can even roll over, so she is making definite progress. I am still feeding her breast milk, but I have also started her on a taste of mashed up vegetables and fruit and she seems to be enjoying it. She can now open her mouth and close it around a small spoon. It is truly wonderful to follow her progress.

Friday 13th August.
I had the strangest dream last night. I was seated on one of the smaller stones of the Druids’ Circle in Cumberland where I originally met Richard. It was still dark but there was a glimmer of light in the eastern sky. The grass was wet with dew. I had my drawing pad and pencils and was ready to sketch the scene as soon as it was light enough. As the light overhead grew brighter, a mist appeared, obscuring the other side of the circle. I paused and waited and finally it started to lift. I was not alone. On the far side a young man was standing looking at me. As the light improved I was able to make out his features and for a moment I thought it was Richard, they looked so alike, but this man was dressed in a different style of clothing, certainly not from the nineteenth century. From somewhere the name ‘Jack’ came into my mind. He was looking at me and smiling and I returned his smile. Then, as he lifted his arm in greeting, the first rays of the sun appeared from over a high eastern hill. They struck his face and he instinctively lifted his hands to block out the light. Then suddenly I was awake.

The sun was shining through a small gap in the bedroom curtains and shining on my face. I turned my head and there was Richard asleep beside me. Yes, the resemblance was uncanny. Whoever he was, the young man has to be a relative of ours, and surely a descendant. What an amazing dream to have, more like a vision.
I am sorry not to share it with Richard, but I think he is already puzzled enough with my strange dreams and visions and I do not want to concern him that I might be losing my mind.

Sunday 15th August
Today we attended church. Mr Irvine preached a very good sermon. Afterwards I knew Mr Irvine would greet worshippers at the church door, so I asked Richard to delay our exit so that I could speak to him. I asked him how the distribution of the moneys raised was proceeding (very well) and asked if he could approach Father Maguire to arrange a mutually agreeable time for them both to visit Richard and me at Marston House to discuss the distribution of the rest of the money, about half of which still remains. This he agreed to do.

Friday 20th August
Mr Irvine and Father Maguire visited us this afternoon. Richard was able to be present for which I was grateful. He took the lead in the conversation of course, and asked how the distribution of moneys was proceeding. Both reverend gentlemen said that it was a great success. Many of the poorest people in the parishes are women who are either widows or whose husbands are away either as soldiers or labourers who have had to travel some distance to find work. They often have several children and they are suffering from lack of income. The distribution of some money is like manna from heaven for them. Some asked whence it came and as had been agreed, the ministers only tell them that it comes from people in Oxford who are more fortunate and able to donate money to aid their Christian brothers and sisters.

I asked if there had been any problems with distributing the money. Both men looked at each other and it was Father Maguire who spoke first.

“Unfortunately, there have been a few problems when the husband is at the house but unemployed. He promises that the money will be used in order to provide food for the family, but this does not always occur. Recently a woman arrived at the presbytery the day after I left some money with the family. She was crying and very ashamed, but I managed to coax the story out of her. It seems her husband had demanded all the money soon after I left, and then he left the house and did not appear again until late at night, very drunk and with no money left having spent much of it on drink, and gambled the rest of it away. He was remorseful of course as such men usually are, but that did not solve the problem.

“I did not think it wise to give her more money for fear of the same thing happening, so instead I gave some money to my housekeeper and asked her to accompany the woman to the village to purchase the food she so desperately required to feed her six children.”

“That is a very wise decision, sir,” said Richard. “When Mrs d’Anglais suggested that you two gentlemen were the most suitable to distribute the money, I had no doubt that she was right, and so it has proven to be.”

“Indeed ma’am,” said Mr Irving.

Monday 23rd August.
I called to see Lucy at Studleigh Park today, taking Elizabeth and Anna with me. She said she is finding herself unusually tired. From my previous experience I assured her that that is quite usual. She begged to have a cuddle of Elizabeth and this was followed by Sarah requesting the same. I was happy to oblige. Elizabeth’s favourite toy is the doll that Lucy gave her and she refuses to be parted from it. Freddie came in at that point and greeted me and asked to see Elizabeth, commenting how she is growing. I’m sure he is greatly looking forward to becoming a father.

Wednesday 25th August.
My brother John is currently a pupil of a lawyer who appears in the High Court in London and it is presently between the Trinity and Michaelmas terms of court sitting, so he has been able to take a few weeks’ holiday and has returned home to Oxford. I had been notified to expect him soon after he arrived to stay with our parents, so it was no surprise when I heard the sound of horses’ hooves on the driveway and a few minutes later he burst through the door and pulled up short to give me a deep bow. I responded with an extravagant curtsey and then he leapt forward to take me in a bear hug which almost cracked my ribs!

“John! Dear John, it’s so good to see you again,” I gasped, fighting for breath.

He held me at arms’ length and beamed. “Look at you, Leonora, my little sister. I never imagined you as a married woman, let alone a mother, and yet here you are, and it seems very established as the mistress of Marston House.”

I smiled through my blushes. “And what about you, brother dear? I know you cannot think of marriage while still at your legal studies, but I think you should start considering if there is some young lady who might make a suitable wife for a rising barrister?”

John laughed. “Time for that in a few years,” he said.

“Nevertheless, I think it might be a good idea for us to hold a ball while you are here if Richard agrees, and I will make sure that every eligible young woman in the district is invited. Can I count upon your presence?”

“For you, dear sister, I can hardly refuse,” he replied.

Thursday 26th August
Balls are very popular with the ton. They are a great social occasion, and everyone is happy to attend. However, before I had a chance to speak to Richard about it, I had a visit from Lucy and Sarah, and after mentioning the ball and how John would be there, although he happened to be out visiting friends today, Lucy begged to be allowed to request of Freddie that it be held at Studleigh Park so that she could attend, even if she would not be able to dance. I could hardly refuse her, particularly as this will be the first ball she will attend since coming out of mourning, but insisted that if Freddie was reluctant, we would have it at Marston House, if Richard agreed, explaining that I am anxious to introduce John to the young single ladies of Oxford, even if he could not yet consider marriage. We have agreed upon Saturday 11th September as a suitable date. It may not seem far off, but as all the great houses host frequent balls, they do not need a lot of organizing.

I have little doubt that Freddie will agree to Lucy’s request. Now that she is carrying his child I do not think he could refuse her anything. By the by, I did not fail to notice a faint blush appear on Sarah’s cheeks when I mentioned my brother John. Quite frankly I think that would be a wonderful match. In fact it would make her my sister-in-law twice over!

Friday 27th August.
A brief note arrived from Lucy confirming the date of the ball, and since we will not now be the hosts, we are on the guest list together with my parents, John and Emma. I am welcome to take Elizabeth, Anna and Marie along, and Richard will take his valet Robert. and we can all stay the night, including John if he wishes, which is most convenient. Studleigh Park is a very large house, so they have plenty of room.

To be continued

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Chapter 27 A secret shared

Sunday 12th September.
Yesterday was the ball at Studleigh Park and there is a lot to record. Oxford is in want of a theatre, an omission which I hope will be rectified before too long. Thus, the local ton have to rely on their own resources for entertainment, and balls and musical recitals are the most population means of divertissement. Balls in particular, have the advantage of providing a means by which the young single men and woman of the town can be introduced to each other and if there is attraction, then who knows what might ensue?

Studleigh Park has a larger ballroom than Marston House and so the invitation list could be expanded accordingly. At least thirty young women with an equal number of young men, plus their parents were easily accommodated. A fine band had been secured for the occasion and the whole room was gay with decorations and lit by hundreds of candles. Women take great care in their presentation at balls and the gowns were exceptionally beautiful. The gentlemen are of course fairly restricted since they only have the conventional evening dress which is worn to every occasion. Nevertheless, I was pleased to see that they all took exceptional care with their toilette.

Although she could not dance because of her condition, Lucy greatly enjoyed the scene and everyone complimented her as they knew that she was mainly responsible for the arrangements. With our conversation masked by the hubbub of the gathering, she asked me if I could recommend a good midwife when her time comes. My reply was that I have only experienced Mrs Jenkins but I would have no hesitation in recommending her, and would secure her services again should the need arise.

Richard knows how much I love to dance and very gallantly made sure that I was not in want of great enjoyment. Lady Susan and her two daughters Phoebe and Eloise were also present. I feel sad for Lady Susan since as a widow, even though now out of mourning, I suspect it is not considered appropriate for her to dance. Her daughters certainly made up for it as they were approached by many young men requesting their hand in a dance.

During one dance, I was not totally surprised to see that my brother John was dancing with my sister-in-law Sarah. I confess that for some time I have wondered if Sarah has any interest in men at all, but if she does, she could hardly find someone more suitable than John. Not only is he very handsome (and if a sister writes thus of her brother, you can be sure it is true) but he is also very intelligent as it proven by his current apprenticeship to one of England’s top lawyers who has his pick of whom he chooses to study with him.

You can be sure that the dancing couple had not escaped Lucy’s notice and after I sat down, we discussed whether there might be any future for them. When John and Sarah had a second set of two dances, the maximum which an unmarried couple can enjoy, we really began to think that there might be something in it. I cautioned Lucy about saying anything to Sarah for fear of killing a budding romance.

“In any event, he cannot possibly consider marriage until he is a qualified barrister and starting to make his fortune,” I said, and Lucy agreed.

The next time that John returned Sarah to her sister, I was surprised that he gallantly invited me to dance with him. As we circled I could not but help saying, “Miss Sarah is a delightful person is she not?”

John smiled. “Indeed she is, but I hope that my sister is not becoming a gossip?”

I blushed, I could not help it, and John laughed of course, and I laughed too.

“Truly I am no matchmaker, John. Sarah and Lucy being twins are very close which is why she is living here with Lucy and Freddie and if she found someone to whom she wished to give her heart, he would have to be warned that she would still wish to live in close proximity to her sister. I could not see her being happy otherwise.”

John smiled. “Thank you for the advice, sister; I will consider it carefully.”

I have failed to mention the attendance of my parents and sister Emma, who as on previous occasions was accompanied by her nurse so that she could retire early. On this occasional the Cholmodelays (pronounced ‘Chumley’) were present and they have a young son Mortimer, aged twelve, whose eyes lit up at the sight of Emma as, like young Henry that we met in Bath, he was tired of having nobody of his age to dance with, He approached Mama and Papa, introduced himself, being quite confident for his age, and begged to be permitted to request a dance with Emma, a request which was agreed to. I can see my little sister becoming a heartbreaker!
Once more, Richard and I joined the same dance in order to keep a close eye on them, but I was pleased to see that they both danced very well and with great propriety.

Although the ball was scheduled to continue until near dawn, Richard and I returned home by midnight as I do not like to be away from Elizabeth for too long. I was pleased to hear that she had been very well behaved during our absence. It is as well that I am not jealous as I suspect she sometimes thinks that Anna is her mother!

Tuesday 14th September
It is customary for guests at a ball to visit the people that hold them in the following days to thank them for a lovely evening. I decided to visit today, and asked John if he would like to accompany me, not really thinking that he would, but he seemed to accept the invitations with alacrity. On arrival at Studleigh Park, we found Freddie, Lucy and Sarah in the drawing room, the two women engaged in their needlework while Freddie was reading the paper. It seems that Phoebe and Eloise were out visiting friends.

After the customary greetings, bows and curtseys, (I noticed Sarah’s pink cheeks as she greeted John), we sat down to converse. It was a lovely day and I could not help noticing that John seemed a little ‘on edge’. Finally, he rose and approached Freddie, asking if he might be permitted the company of Miss Sarah to take a turn around the flower garden. This being agreed to, John gave his hand to Sarah to rise and they left us to view the flowers. It’s well known that Sarah is very fond of flowers and even takes a turn at gardening herself, not a common occupation for young ladies. With Freddie’s head hidden behind the newspaper (and I was pleased to see him taking some time off from the business of the estate), Lucy and I exchanged a smile. We both suspected that whatever Sarah and John were discussing, it was not horticulture.

When Sarah and John returned to the room after being absent for a respectable amount of time, Lucy rang for tea and the conversation turned to general matters.

“How is your time in London proceeding?” asked Freddie.

“Very well I believe,” replied John. “As you may know, I am a pupil of Sir Garfield Livingstone K.C., a well-known barrister, and he seems satisfied with my work, while still being a hard taskmaster. I have very little time to myself.”

“And when might your apprenticeship end?” asked Emily.

“In about six months, after which I intend to return to Oxford and take up a position with a very well-known company of barristers and solicitors who have offered me a position already.”

“That is good news. I hope we will see more of you then,” said Lucy. Sarah had said nothing at all, but I think much had been said while viewing the herbaceous borders.

On the way home in the coach, I could not help but question John about the afternoon.

“Judging by Sarah’s heightened colour and the way you looked so pleased with yourself after your garden walk, might I conclude that some matters are settled between you two?”

John hesitated. “If I confide in you it is the with the understanding that it must be kept strictly confidential,” he said.

“You can rely upon me John, my lips are sealed,” I replied.

“Well, I started by explaining to Miss d’Anglais that until I complete my training and start to earn an income, I cannot possibly consider making an offer to any young lady as I know her parents would reject it outright.”

“I think you may call her Sarah,” I replied. “There is only the two of us here. I imagine she accepted the wisdom of your remarks?”

“Indeed. Then I went on to say, and I confess to being somewhat nervous at this point, that when I am finally in a position to make a young lady an offer, I wondered, if it was made to her, how she might receive it? She paused for what must have been several seconds but to me they seemed like hours, and finally said that if I was to make her an offer at that point, she would be very pleased to accept it, subject of course to her father’s approval.”

I know my face broke out into a broad smile at this point. “So, you are effectively unofficially engaged!” I exclaimed.

“Well, yes, I suppose we are. I know that she will confide in her sister, but not a word to anyone else.”

“Of course not, not even a hint,” I responded. “Once you have built up a sufficient fortune, I’m sure Sir John will be happy to give his blessing to the union.”

“There was one thing I said to her, which I feared might make her change her mind, but had to be said; I pointed out that once we are married, I would expect her to live with me at a different address, but I would make sure that it was as close to Studleigh Park as possible.”

“And how did she respond to that?”

“She said, ‘Mr Bolton, you know that my sister and I are very close, but there can only be one mistress in a house and I would fully expect to be mistress of my own house after I marry. However, I do thank you for your kindness in saying you will establish us in close proximity to my sister.”

“Well, this is wonderful news, John, but you can be assured that I will not divulge what you have told me today to a living soul.”

(For the next month there was little of note to record, but then came an interesting letter from John to Leonora. J.D.)

Thursday 29th October
Today I received a letter from my brother John in London, which I have decide to copy into my journal in full. It read as follows:

‘My Dearest Sister,
I have some very good news for you and some perhaps not so good news. I am writing in similar terms to both Miss d’Anglais and also Mama and Papa.

Firstly, I am pleased to report that Sir Garfield has informed me that he considers that at the end of the Michaelmas legal term in late December, I will have completed my pupillage and will be called to the bar. This means I can then call myself a barrister. This is very good news as it means that I can start to argue cases and be paid for my work.

My second news is Sir Garfield has invited me to join the Chambers of which he is Head. This is a great compliment, but of course means that I would have to stay in London for probably another year. The truth is that I promised Miss Sarah that I would return to Oxford as soon as I was a qualified barrister, but until I at least start to make my fortune, I cannot approach Sir John with a request to marry her, and if I stay in London, I will have more opportunities for financial gain, and also my reputation than I can in Oxford. I do hope that she will not think that by making this decision that my ardour has cooled since that is far from the case. I merely think that by staying in London I might be in a position to ask for her hand sooner than if I return to Oxford.

I am going to ask a great favour of you. Would you be kind enough to visit Miss Sarah and assure her of my commitment to marriage at the earliest possible opportunity?

The Michaelmas term finishes on Tuesday 21st December, and it is my intention to return to Oxford for Christmas where I will stay with Mama and Papa, and will certainly visit you and Studleigh Park.

I remain,
Your most devoted brother,
John.

Upon receiving this letter and digesting the contents, I wrote to Lucy saying that I had a matter of importance to discuss with Sarah, and would she be kind enough to receive me at her earliest convenience?

Friday 30th October.
I received a note from Lucy saying that I would be most welcome next Monday afternoon if that was suitable for me. Perhaps she guessed the reason for my request since I’m sure Sarah would have shared the contents of her letter from John.

Monday 2nd November
Today I visited Studleigh Park. Lucy is indeed ‘great with child’ and must surely be confined within the next few weeks. Phoebe and Eloise were home and not knowing how much they knew of Sarah and John’s unofficial engagement, I felt it was appropriate to speak to Sarah on her own. I therefore requested that she would shew me her latest plantings in the garden. She glanced at Lucy who gave her a nod. I think she must have told Freddie’s sisters that I wished to speak to Sarah alone, since they did not ask to accompany us.

It was a beautiful day with the sun shining and a slight breeze but pleasantly warm.
At Sarah’s request, Freddie has allocated for her use a section of the garden which she has designed in a most elegant manner and prepared with her own hands. I could not help thinking that if her position in the family had not forbidden it, she could have been very successful as a garden improver. I was genuinely interested in what she has done, but of course there were other matters to discuss.

“Like you, I have received a letter from John, which contained a request that I visit you. In fact, I have brought it with me. Would you like to read it?”

Sarah coloured slightly. “Yes please,” she said. I reached into my reticule and handed the document over, keeping silent while she perused it.

“He is very concerned that you might take his decision to stay in London for a year as an indicator that he no longer wishes to marry you, and wants me to assure you that that is not the case, quite the reverse.”

Handing the letter back, Sarah said with a blush, “I confess that when I first read his letter to me, which was couched in similar terms, that thought crossed my mind, but I now realise that he is making the best decision in order that we should marry.as soon as possible.”

“You probably realise that, being unable to earn any remuneration during his pupillage, my papa furnished him with sufficient funds to live in London. John thinks that he will have to return the money to Papa as the honourable thing to do, but knowing Papa’s kindness as I do, I suspect he will refuse repayment, and that will help John build his fortune. When he returns to Oxford with a fine reputation, as I’m sure he will, and also the start of a good fortune, I have little doubt that Sir John will give his consent to you marrying.”

Sarah smiled. “Oh, I do hope so! That being the case, I can bear waiting another year.”

“In my reply to him, may I assure him that you fully understand the reason for his decision to stay in London?” I asked.

“Yes, please do,” Sarah said. “I intend to write a letter to him couched in similar terms. I’m sure a year will pass quickly enough.”

Our conversation being concluded to our mutual satisfaction, we returned to the house for tea with Lucy and Freddie’s sisters. Lucy informed me that she was fully prepared for her confinement and has secured the services of Mrs Jenkins who has already visited h r to make sure that all is in readiness.. I feel sure that is a wise decision.

Wednesday 4th November,
This morning a brief note arrived from Freddie informing us that about five o’clock this morning, Lucy was safely delivered of a fine baby boy. Both mother and son are doing well. The baby will be named Frederick after his father and grandfather. I immediately sent a note back to Studleigh Park, expressing our congratulations, love and best wishes, and asking that we be permitted to visit as soon as Lucy felt able to receive us.

Saturday 7th November
Today, Richard, Elizabeth and I visited Studleigh Park to meet the new addition to the family. Lucy was glowing with happiness and Freddie is as proud as Punch. We congratulated them both and when the time came for Lucy to feed her newborn, then the gentlemen left us alone. Young Freddie feeds very well, and I am sure he will grow quickly. Lucy told me that she had been in labour from the previous afternoon to his birthday and had not suffered greatly, so all had gone very well. She complimented me on Elizabeth’s progress. There is no doubt that becoming a mother changes a woman in many ways. Suddenly her focus in life changes to be centred on her child or children. I took along a gift of a beautiful woollen blanket and it was gratefully received.

Sunday 8th November.
The arrival of young Freddie has me thinking that a husband loves all his children, but he is especially pleased when his wife produces a son and heir. This makes me think that perhaps the time is approaching when Richard and I should try for another child, hopefully a boy.

Sunday 21st November
‘Stir it up’ Sunday. How quickly the year has gone, and here we are leading up to Christmas and tomorrow Mrs Walker and her staff will start upon the task of making Christmas puddings! We have changed the day rather than make the kitchen staff work on them on a Sunday.

Monday 22nd November.
A letter arrived from Lady Elizabeth today to inform us that she and Sir John will be coming to spend Christmas with us and enjoy time with the family. They are particularly looking forward to seeing their granddaughter again and their new grandson. They anticipate arriving on Friday December 17th and expect to stay for three or four weeks.

I confess to feeling slightly out of sorts at this announcement. Richard and I are master and mistress of Marston House even if it belongs to Sir John, and I think it would have been polite to ask if it was convenient for them to visit, even though of course we would not have refused. I am making a mental note to show tact when I am mistress of Grasmere, which I hope is many years in the future, but if truth be told it is only a heartbeat away.

Anticipating my thoughts, she also informed us that Lady Ellen had been invited to accompany them but had declined on account of her advancing years and the uncomfortable four-day journey. She will not be alone at Grasmere. She has a long-time maid called Betty, so long in fact that they behave almost as friends rather than mistress and servant. In addition, Richard’s Uncle David and his wife have been invited to spend Christmas afternoon at Grasmere after he has conducted the Christmas morning service, to enjoy Christmas Dinner with her, and stay until Boxing Day morning, when they will have to return to Grasmere for the Sunday service at St Oswald’s. They may, however, return to Grasmere Hall for a few more days. My feeling is that Uncle David has been asked to discretely keep a watch on Lady Ellen.

I have informed Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson that Sir John and Lady d’Anglais will be visiting so that preparations can be made to receive them. There will also be Lady Elizabeth’s maid and Sir John’s valet and an extra footman to accommodate; I suspect it might be Eric, who had acquitted himself so well on Lady Elizabeth’s last visit when the stagecoach was held up. I wonder if he has been taking shooting lessons?

Wednesday 24th November
I visited Lucy and Sarah for afternoon tea. Young Freddie is showing signs of growing apace. I told them that Sir John and Lady Elizabeth were coming to visit for Christmas. They have not yet received a letter but I’m sure will do so soon as no doubt their parents will like to spend some time staying at Studleigh Park. Lucy told me that she has persuaded Freddie to hold a New Year’s Eve ball at Studleigh Park. By so doing, Lucy will be able to attend while still being in close proximity to baby Freddie. I understand perfectly. Being a mother changes one’s life in many ways.

Thursday 25th November
Mrs Danvers and I have a good working relationship. When I first heard her name I confess to feeling a shiver through my body. There was something about her name which I could not place since I’ve never met anyone else of the same name. She is remarkably competent. Indeed, it has sometime surprised me that she hasn’t been poached to keep house for one of the large mansions of the aristocracy or even royalty. I am very pleased that she remains at Marston House of course and I think I may have found out the reasons why. She is married , but her husband is a sea captain and spends much of the year sailing to distant parts of the world. They have no children. While she and Mr Anderson, who is a widower, have an excellent professional relationship, there was something she said once in an unguarded moment which led me to suspect that perhaps their relationship is more than just professional, but I must not gossip, not even to the pages of my journal.

Early in my arrival at Marston House, I was tempted to tell her that there was no need to curtsey to me when other people are not present. I am glad that I did not, since it is now clear to me that she is very conscious of our positions and would not take kindly to me ‘rocking the boat’ as it were by encouraging over familiarity as she would have seen it.

To be continued

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Chapter 28 A wrong righted
Monday 29th November
This afternoon, following my regular meeting with Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson, followed by a light luncheon, I was sitting in the drawing room applying some water colour paint to one of my sketches when there was a tap on the door. Mrs Danvers entered. She has a disapproving look on her face, and after her usual formal curtsey, said: “There is a young woman at the door, madam. She says she has come from London and begs permission to speak to you regarding your brother Mr Bolton.”

I confess the words ‘young woman’ and ‘Mr Bolton’, gave me some cause for concern. It is an accepted fact that young women of the ton go to their marriage beds as virgins, but such is not the case with young men. It is equally accepted that prior to marriage they will ‘sow their wild oats’. In some ways this is not a bad thing since I cannot imagine the situation if both the husband and wife were virgins and had no idea what they should do. Thus it is that although new wives expect their husband to have experience they don’t ask and the husband doesn’t tell.
I suddenly realized that Mrs Danvers had spoken.

“I’m sorry, Mrs Danvers, you were saying?”

“Shall I send her away, madam?”

Tempting though it was, I needed to know the reason for her making such a long journey.

“I will see her alone Mrs Danvers, but please keep within earshot in case I need assistance in dealing with her.”

“Very well, madam,” she said, and again I could feel that I detected a note of disapproval, perhaps of me this time. But I felt that I really needed to know what this visit was about. A minute later, the door opened and she returned with a young woman.

“Miss Betty Burke, madam,” she said to me, and turning to the young woman, ”Curtsey and address Mrs d’Anglais as ‘ma’am’.” She then did her formal curtsey and left the room.

I had glanced up when they entered the room, but now turned my attention back to my painting, leaving Miss Burke to stand there, looking around the room. I could tell she was nervous, and I wanted to do nothing to dispel that nervousness. She was a pretty young girl and I feared what she might be about to say to me. Finally, I finished what I was doing and looked up.

“Miss Burke, you have travelled all the way from London to see me; how can I help you?”

She sketched a curtsey, probably the second one. I could tell from her dress that she was from London’s poorest community. “It’s regarding your brother, Mr Bolton … ma’am.”

“And what makes you think that Mr Bolton is my brother?”

I saw a letter he 'ad addressed to you sitting on his desk, ma’am.”

“So you can read!” I exclaimed without thinking. This is not an attribute that many of the poorest in society can lay claim to.

“Yes ma’am, and write a little and do me numbers,” she replied with a touch of defiance. “My Pa thought I should get educated, so sent me to school for a year, but then he died in an accident down at the docks, and Ma couldn’t afford for me to go no more. Besides she needed the money I could bring in to support the family.”

“Do you have siblings?” I enquired. She paused for a moment looking puzzled.
“If you mean brothers and sisters, ma’am’, yes I have two younger brothers and three sisters.”

I was finding it difficult to maintain a cold demeaner. “So, tell me what has happened. Why have you come to see me?” I asked in a softer tone.

“I was working at Gray’s Inn, cleaning the rooms of the young gentlemen scholars, ma’am. One day, I saw some money on Mr Bolton’s desk, but I didn’t touch it, I swear. The next morning when I came to work, I was taken into the common room of the young gentlemen and accused of stealing the money. They wouldn’t listen but said it must have been me as nobody else could get into Mr Bolton’s room. He was the only one who stood up for me and said that perhaps it had been thrown out by mistake, but he was outvoted by all the rest and I was dismissed on the spot and without paying me the five shillings I was owed. They said I was lucky not to be reported to the sheriff as I’d probably be transported to New South Wales if I wasn’t hanged. I was so scared I ran from the room and didn’t stop until I got home.”

“Did they say how much money was missing?” I asked.

“They said it was ten pounds, ma’am. I never seen that much money in me life.”

“And were they right that you were the only one to have access to Mr Bolton’s room?”

“Most of the young gentlemen leave their rooms unlocked, ma’am. The porter gives me a key but most times I don’t need to use it. Mr Bolton never locks his room and anyone could have gone into it.”

The more I thought about it the more I became convinced that she was right. Anyone could have taken the money and it was too easy to blame the cleaner.
“Do you have any money left?” I asked. “How will you get back to London?”

“I’ve just thruppence ma’am. I suppose I’ll have to beg for the rest.”

“That won’t do,” I said. “I need to discuss this with my husband, Mr d’Anglais. He is a lawyer too. I want you to come back here tomorrow morning and I will tell you what we have decided to do.”

I reached for my reticle where I keep my pin money, and extracted some coins.
“Here are three shillings. That will cover your coach fare to London but also buy you a bed for the night and something to eat.”

Betty stared at me. “Oh ma’am, thank you so much. I’ll come back tomorrow, I swear.”

I picked up a small silver bell on my table and rang it. Mrs Danvers instantly appeared. She must have been just outside the door.

“Mrs Danvers, I have asked Miss Burke to return tomorrow morning, after I have spoken to Mr d’Anglais. In the meantime, would you be kind enough to direct her to a nearby inn where she can get a bed and meal, please?”

“Yes ma’am,” said Mrs Danvers, with an unusually stiff curtsey. Her expression suggested she wondered what on earth I was doing, and had I lost my mind? Then she showed Betty Burke out.

After they had left the room, I sat for a while and considered her story. To be honest, when she explained what she had come about I was greatly relieved, since I thought it possible that John had been foolish. He is my brother and I love him dearly, but for all that, he is a man and men sometimes do things without thinking of the consequences.

This evening, after dinner, I told Richard about Betty Burke’s visit and her story.

“Do you believe her?” he asked.

“Yes, I do, and it’s not just female intuition” I said with a smile.

Richard smiled too. “Pretend I am a judge, how would you convince me of her innocence?” he said.

“Well, My Lord, to start with, Miss Burke is quite a bright girl. If she had taken the money, she would never have dared return to Gray’s Inn the following day. Indeed, with ten pounds in her pocket, she would have put as much distance as she could between herself and London. She said herself that most of the rooms are left unlocked, so anyone could have entered John’s room, seen the money and on impulse pocketed it. I think that’s what happened. Most of those young gentlemen must be as short of money as John is, until they are called to the bar. John might even have suspected one of them, but it was not possible for him to make a general accusation. I also wondered why they didn’t take Betty to the sheriff. They didn’t seem to want him involved. Perhaps he would have asked the same questions I am asking?”

“Good, good,” said Richard. “So, what do you propose to do?”

“I propose to write to John, tell him about Betty’s visit and how we are convinced of her innocence. I will send him ten pounds which I’ve saved from my pin money as I’m sure he must now be short of money. I will also suggest he keeps it securely under lock and key, since I believe the real thief is still at large. I will ask him to send Betty a note saying that she is an honest and trustworthy person, so that she can use it as a reference to get herself another job. As for Betty, tomorrow I would like to give her a pound in small change to make up for the pay she was not given, and to help her family while she seeks another employer.”

Richard smiled. “I think you have covered everything very well. I totally support your proposed actions, except in one regard; there is no need to dispense your own savings as I will provide the ten pounds to send to John, and perhaps it would not be excessive to give Miss Burke two pounds?”

I walked up to him and kissed him. “Thank you my dear,” I said. ”What a generous man you are and how was I so lucky as to marry you?”

He smiled. “It’s a pity that women aren’t allowed to become lawyers. You argued Miss Burke’s defence so eloquently, I’m sure you’d be as successful practicing law as many men.”

“Perhaps one day it will happen, but I doubt it will be in our lifetimes, my dear. Women aren’t even allowed to become university students,” I said. This is a sore point with me, and Richard knows it.

Tuesday 30th November
I expected Miss Burke early and was surprised to hear the clock had just struck ten when she arrived looking breathless and was shown into the drawing room, this time by one of the maids.

After she almost fell over curtseying, she gasped “I’m so sorry ma’am, what must you think of me? I expect you thought I wouldn't return, but that bed was the most comfortable I’ve ever occupied, and I overslept.”

“Not at all, I knew you would return,” I said, although the thought had crossed my mind that she had taken the money and run off, thinking I had not believed her. I then explained to her what Richard and I had decided and how I would write to my brother and inform him.

“I am sorry that it will be impossible for you to return to Gray’s Inn, but I hope that his recommendation will enable you to find some other suitable employment.”

I then gave her the two pounds in small coins that Richard and I agreed, and she was so grateful she almost wept. Indeed her thanks were so profuse they were almost embarrassing. I wished her good fortune in the future and guessing correctly that she had not stopped to breakfast at the inn, rang for the maid and asked her to take Miss Burke to the kitchen and ask Mrs Walker to give her something to eat and also something to take with her during her trip back to London. I then sat down to write to John, enclosing the draft for ten pounds and told him of Richard and my conclusions on the case. I finished off by suggesting that if one of his colleagues was a compulsive gambler, that might be where the money had gone.

Thursday 2nd December
A letter arrived from John in London today, and the contents were in some ways a surprise and some ways not. After thanking me for the ten pounds, since he was in dire straits financially, he told me that yesterday he had received a visit from one of his fellow students, who, as I correctly surmised, is a compulsive gambler. He continued as follows:

‘This fellow, I won’t name him since if it were noised abroad it would be the end of his legal career, had been drinking and visited me full of remorse to admit that he had called in to see me a few days back when I was absent. It seems some rough fellows to whom he owed money have been making certain threats and he had hoped to borrow from me. Upon seeing the money on my desk which I had foolishly not locked away, upon an impulse he picked it up. He now begs my forgiveness and promises, which I doubt if he will keep, to pay the money back.

‘I told him it was of more concern to me that an innocent girl had lost her employment and reputation for honesty due to his actions, and that he should feel even more guilt because of that, a point upon which he humbly agreed. ‘You must understand that I could not admit it in from of all the other fellows,’ he said. I said that if he showed genuine remorse then he would do his best to find her another position. You can imagine my surprise when he returned this morning to tell me that he has obtained another position for Betty. He is very convivial and were it not for his gambling, a thoroughly good fellow. He has a number of good friends studying at the three other Inns of Court and discovered that Lincoln’s Inn requires the services of an honest woman cleaner after the previous incumbent was caught stealing. I don’t know what story he gave them about her leaving Gray’s Inn, but he personally vouched for her honesty. I had difficulty in keeping my composure upon hearing this. I will call upon Miss Burke later today and inform her of the good news without telling her who was responsible for it. If it requires me to accept thanks for good works which were none of my doing, so be it.’

I must say that this is very good news indeed and it will give me great pleasure to show John’s letter to Richard.

To be continued

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Chapter 29 Christmas 1813 and the New Year of 1814
Friday 3rd December
Lucy has written to inform me that she will request of Freddie that they hold a New Year’s Eve ball at Studleigh Park. All is well with young Freddie and he grows apace.

Sunday 5th December
We attended church this morning, and the Rev’d Irvine gave a fine sermon, although I confess my mind wandered during his dissertation. I have been thinking about what gifts I should give to my Grasmere relatives and it suddenly occurred to me that since I had produced a tolerably lifelike sketch of Richard during the time that his portrait was being painted, I could produce a likeness of the two grandchildren for Sir John and Lady Elizabeth, with a second copy for Lady Ellen and further copies for my Mamma and Pappa, Lucy and ourselves. Having discussed the matter with Richard later in the day, he gave me his enthusiastic approbation. If I start as soon as possible, I will have time to complete the sketches before I am distracted by all the arrangement of Christmas and being hostess to our guests. I will commence my endeavours by sketching Elizabeth since she is so readily available to me, and Anna is always most happy to hold her while I sketch.

Thursday 9th December.
My first sketch of Elizabeth has been shown to Richard who was greatly impressed with the likeness. I begged him to be totally honest with me, since I feared that his kindness might cause him to offer a compliment where one was not warranted, but he insisted that he was being totally honest. Since I wish to keep one for Richard and I, I will now make copies for Sir John and Lady Elizabeth and also for Lady Ellen. In addition I have decided to make a copy for Anna who is the best nurserymaid I could have wished for – it will come as a big surprise for her. I have also written to Lucy asking her permission which I have no doubt will be given, to make a sketch of Young Frederick who is now nearly five weeks old, explaining that there will be a copy for her, her parents and also Lady Ellen.

Friday 10th December
I received a response from Lucy, who gives my request her and Frederick’s enthusiastic approbation, and suggesting that I visit next Monday since time is of the essence. I am working hard at making two more copies of Elizabeth, and will take the original for Lucy and Sarah to see so that they will be assured of my competence. Meanwhile, I have written to Mama about my newly established tradition of entertaining the children of our staff around the Christmas Tree, with afternoon tea of cakes and sweetmeats and also a gift each. This year it will take place on Monday 20th December, and I have invited her and Emma to attend, with a view to Mama assisting me as hostess. I did ask if Emma, who is a remarkably good performer on the pianoforte for her age, would be willing to play for carols and dances, but only if she is amenable to the idea.

Monday 13th December
Today I visited Studleigh Park, taking my sketching equipment and also Elizabeth and Anna with me. I was pleased that they were very complimentary regarding my sketch of Elizabeth and begged to be given a copy themselves – more work I fear but at least they are not in a hurry for it. My priority now is to have the sketches ready to give to my parents-in-law during their visit. In fact they will be one of the presents they receive from us.

I was able to spend about two hours sketching. Much of the time, baby Freddie was asleep, but upon discussion it was decided that in the sketch he would have his eyes open. I was indeed ready for afternoon tea at the conclusion of my endeavours. I have decided that art is hard work! At least Freddie’s parents seemed quite satisfied with the likeness I have captured, although I will be taking the sketches home to produce the final product. I have a few busy days ahead of me.

Friday 17th December
Sir John and Lady Elizabeth arrived this afternoon after an uneventful journey. As usual, a good proportion of the staff, including Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson, with myself at the head of the steps were ready to greet them with bows and curtseys, me included. Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson showed them to their rooms which had been prepared some days in advance and left nothing to be required. Richard arrived home as soon as he could in order to greet his parents, and we had the usual meal of cold meats which they have come to appreciate after a long journey. Tomorrow will be a different matter. Our visitors retired early after the tiring four days of travel.

Saturday 18th December.
This afternoon, Lucy, Sarah, Lady Susan, Eloise and Phoebe and the Fredericks senior and junior paid us a visit for afternoon tea. I could tell that his grandparents were thrilled to meet their new grandson, although of course they feel it necessary to show restraint. My sketches are finished but I discretely handed them, wrapped in paper, via one of the maids, to the coachman so that they can be presented on Christmas Day as a surprise. Much to my own surprise, my brother John paid us a visit and naturally this made a certain member of the company exceedingly happy. I’m sure her blushes did not escape the notice of Lady Elizabeth!

Freddie invited us all to a New Year’s Eve ball at Studleigh Park, an invitation we were all happy to accept.

Monday 20th December
Today was the day of entertaining the children of our staff and it was a most successful occasion. Mamma kindly assisted me in my role as hostess, and Emma kindly played the pianoforte most beautifully for the singing of carols and the dances. She is a very talented player even though still very young, and I know I shall never attain the standards that she will achieve. The children enjoyed their tea of sweet jellies, cakes and custards and then the games, carols and dances. Before they left, they were each presented with a gift. There was also a special present for Emma of some yards of very fine muslin for making a new gown. I have to say that she appears more mature every time I see her, and is rapidly becoming a young woman. I would suggest that she will break some hearts when she is older, but she is such a sweet-natured girl that I doubt she could do that.

Tuesday 21st December St Thomas’s Day
Today is the traditional day for the poor of Oxford to visit those of us who are privileged, for donations of money and often such items as wheat which is now very expensive. It is known as ‘a-Thomasing’, and unlike last year, I was able to attend, although I asked Mrs Danvers to assist me in distributing the gifts. I did invite Lady Elizabeth to attend but she said that as the mistress of the house, it was appropriate for me to attend, not her. The poor people are very grateful for our help and I confess I almost feel guilty for having so much when they have so little. What we give them is the very least we can do. It made me think that we should have another musical evening in the New Year, in order to again raise funds to help the poor, since the previous one was such a success.

Friday 24th December Christmas Eve
We had dinner and after making sure that everything is ready for the morrow, we retired early to bed.

Saturday 25th December Christmas Day.
We arose early and attended the Christmas service at St Nicholas’ church where the Rev’d Henry Irvine preached a fine though not extensive sermon on the birth of Our Lord, being aware of the need for families to return home for the secular celebrations. My parents have a very cordial relationship with Sir John and Lady Elizabeth, so we invited them, Emma and John to Christmas luncheon with us. Presents were exchanged, and we had a very pleasant afternoon. Our daughter Elizabeth is nearly one and able to stand and with a guiding hand in both of hers, is taking tentative steps. Her Aunty Emma took great delight in guiding her with uncertain steps as she ‘walked’ from one person to another enjoying the attention. It is true that young children can be a great source of entertainment purely by being themselves. Now that Emma has grown accustomed to the fact that she is an aunt, albeit a very young one she takes great interest in her niece and always enquires after her if she is not present.

Sunday 26th December Boxing Day
As is the custom, the majority of the servants enjoyed a day off from work, apart from a few who offered to remain at the house and take another day off in lieu. We dined very simply in order to make things as easy as possible for those who remained. Yesterday being quite busy, we spent the day relaxing, Richard catching up on some legal work and I on my sketching and painting, completing the pictures of baby Elizabeth ready to give to Mama and Pappa, and one each of Baby Frederick for Lady Elizabeth and Sir John, also one for Lady Ellen. When each picture is an original, it is not easy to make them all exactly alike, but I did my best. Perhaps a time will come when it will be possible to somehow make exact copies of an original picture. It was very cold today but did not snow.

Saturday 1st January 1814 New Year’s Day
Yesterday evening was the New Year’s Eve ball at Studleigh Park, and what a magnificent occasion it was! All the ladies wore such pretty gowns, and I wore my newest gown which Richard had insisted I buy as part of my Christmas present. I confess that I thought it exceedingly extravagant, but his comments when he saw me were so very complimentary and loving that I was lost for words, which is not like me at all. As usual, Richard looked so handsome in his evening dress. I confess that my love for him grows with every passing year.

The whole family was there, Sir John and Lady Elizabeth, my Mama, Pappa, brother John and Emma in a new gown and looking so pretty and grown up. A very fine orchestra had been hired for the occasion, and the musical playing was exceptionally fine. I must suggest to Richard that we obtain their details for our next ball. I cannot deny that I love to dance, especially with the handsomest man in the room, and also with my brother John when he is not otherwise engaged!

As custom requires, John danced his two brackets of dances with Sarah, and it was obvious to every lady in the room and maybe even some of the gentlemen that they have feelings for each other. It certainly didn’t escape the notice of Lady Elizabeth!

Taking advantage of a period of time when we were seated together without neighbours on either side, she said to me: “I cannot help noticing that my daughter and your brother seem excessively enamoured of each other.”

I was ready with my reply. “I am sure that is so madam, but they are sensible young people (this about my brother who is older than me!), and now that he is called to the bar, he is able to earn fees for his work. His Head of Chambers, Sir Garfield Livingstone K.C., paid him the great compliment of offering him a position in Chambers next year. Sir Garfield’s reputation is such that many important briefs come his way, and without a doubt John will start to build his fortune. He is of course cognisant of the fact that he cannot make any offer to Sarah until he is sufficiently established to be able to provide for her in a manner to which she is accustomed. She understands this and has agreed to await his improved financial position.”

Lady Elizabeth smiled at me and said “I appreciate your candour, my dear. Your brother has always seemed to me to be an eminently sensible young man and your revelation confirms it. I must tell you something you will undoubtedly find out for yourself, your children will always be your children no matter how old they and you are, and so you are always concerned for their wellbeing”

I smiled and nodded. I am sure she is correct. I must also record that she thanked me very much for the portraits of young Frederick, and expressed her delight in receiving them. She is sure that Lady Ellen will be very grateful for me thinking of sending her one.

Just at that moment, who should appear in front of us but John, looking very dashing in his dinner suit.

“Excuse me, Lady Elizabeth, but I was wondering if my sister would care to take a turn around the dance floor?”

Being a married woman I can only dance with my husband or else a close relative, and Richard was temporarily engaged in a discussion with Frederick.

“I’m sure she would Mr Bolton, but please do me the courtesy of sitting beside me for a few moments,” said Lady Elizabeth.

John smiled and complied with her request. It did not surprise me in the least that she set about interrogating him about his future plans, using the information I had provided to her, and John’s replies matched those that I had given. I did my best to appear not to be listening.

When she was satisfied with the result of her enquiries, Lady Elizbeth said “You sister has been very patient, please do not let me detain you any longer.”

John arose and bowed to her before stepping to me and offering his hand. I stood up and he bowed and I curtseyed. Strictly speaking that was not necessary amongst close family members, but we rather enjoy the conventions of polite society. As we walked to the dance floor, John said: “I hope I handled the interrogation well?”

“Very well,” I replied, “Since you told her exactly what I had already imparted to her.”

John raised an eyebrow and smiled. “Well it seemed to be well received.”

“I’m sure she likes you, and that is important, since when you do finally make Sarah an offer, despite it being officially Sir John who decides if it should be accepted or not, I can assure you that in the case of a daughter, it is her mother who has the greatest say.”

John smiled. “I sometimes still think of you as my little sister, whereas in fact you are a mature married woman as well as being a mother, and you know a great deal more about society than I do!”

Now it was my turn to blush, and we both laughed, however I became serious when John told me that he had to return to London in a few days.

“Hilary term starts on 12th January this year,” he said by way of explanation which meant nothing to me at all. Seeing the puzzled look on my face he continued: “There are four legal terms each year, Hilary, Easter, Trinity and Michaelmas, with a few weeks break in between. Hilary it seems is named after St Hilary of Poitiers, born about the fourth century, whose feast day in 16th January. He is said to be a patron saint of lawyers. There is a very important case starting on the 12th – Sir Garfield will be leading and I will be his junior”

I gasped. “Does that mean you will not receive any emolument?”

John laughed but not is a cruel manner. “This is a very important case involving the aristocracy, I’m sorry I can’t say more, but yes, I have put in a great deal of time preparing for it, and I will be well compensated for it, as Sir Garfield will rely upon me to provide him with information as required. If we win, it will reflect very well upon me.”

I smiled at my brother. “In that case I will pray that your contribution is a great success.” At that moment the music started again and we joined the dance. I made a mental note to check the Times newspaper after the case started on 12th January in case there was a report of the case, and perhaps even a mention of John’s name.

I should mention that my young sister Emma danced with young Mortimer Cholmondelay after they gained permission from Mamma. Goodness me, she is now approaching eleven years old and is quite the young lady. Nevertheless, she retired to bed at ten o’clock, accompanied by her nurse. Freddie has promised to return her home tomorrow.

As is common practice for New Year’s Eve balls, it continued until dawn, when breakfast was served for those who wished to partake of it. Our coach arrived at seven o’clock to take us back to Marston House, and to bed.

Tuesday 4th January
The weather is very cold. I was sitting in the drawing room this afternoon with Elizabeth playing with her dolls at my feet. She is an endless source of joy and entertainment. I was surprised to hear a single horse’s hooves on the driveway. Richard had gone to his office on an urgent matter, but I did not expect him back so soon. To my surprise a maid entered and told me that my brother John was at the door requesting admittance. Of course I rose to greet him when he entered the room and we embraced.

“I thought you had already returned to London, John,” I said.

“I return tomorrow but I am on my way to Studleigh Park and Marston is on the way so decided I must bid you a temporary farewell.”

He looked somewhat troubled and I asked him what was the matter.

“I must bid farewell to Sarah for a few months and it will be a difficult meeting I’m sure. What can I do to alleviate her distress? Can you help me? Perhaps I should send her some jewelry when I return to London?”

“Of course she will be distressed and there may be tears, but there is something you can offer her and which will cost you little.” I said. Responding to his enquiring look, I continued “Sarah will probably write to you several times a week, it’s what we ladies tend to do, but my suggestion is that you promise to write to her every week and be sure to keep your promise. It does not matter if the letters are brief, they will still show you are thinking of her and taking the time out of your busy day to prove it. She will treasure your letters and keep them forever. They will mean more to her than any gold or jewels.”

John smiled. “As I told you at the ball, I still think of you as my little sister, forgetting that you are a grown woman and very wise.”

I could not prevent myself from blushing: “It takes a woman to understand what another woman wants and as for being your little sister, believe me John, that is my privilege and always will be. Now, much though I enjoy your company, there is a young lady who is impatiently awaiting your arrival at Studleigh Park, so it would be selfish of me to delay you any longer.”

John and I stood up and we embraced again.

“I will write to you occasionally too, and I hope that you might find the time to send me a few lines but please always make Sarah your first priority,” I said.

“I promise you that I will. And I look forward to seeing you in a few months.”

With that he bowed, and I curtseyed and he took his leave. I feel very pleased that I was able to offer him some good advice.

Friday 14th January
A letter arrived today from my brother John in London, informing me that his first major case as junior to Sir Garfield is going well and he had been complemented by the great man himself. I have been checking the law list in 'The Times' and deduced which is the case in which he is involved. I can now understand why he had to be discreet about the people involved. He tells me that it is so cold that the Thames has frozen over and a Frost Fair has been set up on the ice. That must be wonderful to see. He tells me that he is writing to Sarah every week and she sends him at least two letters to his one. I am not surprised, but I know that she will be thrilled to receive his correspondence.

Monday 1st February
A letter arrived from John today informing me that they have won the case. It seemed to have taken a long time to reach a conclusion. He further informs me that Sir Garfield was very pleased with his contribution to its success and he will receive a most satisfactory fee for his services. I will write and congratulate him. No doubt he has written to Sarah to inform her too.

To be continued

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Chapter 30 Some good news

Wednesday 20th April
My courses have failed for the second month and I now have no doubt that I am with child again. I do hope it is a boy for Richard’s sake, although as far as I am concerned so long as he or she is healthy I am indifferent as to the sex. I revealed my news to darling Richard and he was so pleased, like me saying all he seeks is a healthy child, but I have no doubt he wishes for a son and heir – all men do, and when a large estate is involved it is important that it stays in the hands of the immediate family, rather than going to a distant relative. I do feel a sense of responsibility since the family has no more sons.

Saturday 30th April
Today we held another musical evening in order to raise funds to be distributed to the poor of Oxford. My dear little sister Emma, who is a very talented performer on the pianoforte, together with my performance on the harp, entertained with a duet by Charles Bochsa, We have been practicing assiduously for some months and our performance, which came as a surprise to our guests, was very well received. I am a moderately competent player of the pianoforte, as good as most women, but I must confess to preferring the harp, and my teacher, Mr Thomas tells me that I am making good progress and have a talent for the instrument. In addition Emma performed some pieces by Mozart, and I presented a traditional Welsh air ‘Hiraeth am Feirion’, the translation of which I am ignorant, but it is beautiful music. We also had contributions from Lucy and Sarah, my sisters in law and some of the other amateur musicians from Oxford. We raised four hundred pounds, a very successful evening, and as happened previously, arranged that Father Maguire and Rev Henry Irvine will distribute the funds to the most needy as they so successfully did previously.

At the conclusion of the performances, which concluded with a rendition of ‘God Save the King’,sung by all present, supper was served. All the performers received many complimentary remarks, but the one I prize the most was from Richard who said that he did not realise that I was becoming so competent on the harp. He is at work when I practice, so he had not had the opportunity to hear me play.

For the next few months, Leonora made few entries in her journal, and they were merely notes on the running of Marston House and the progress of her pregnancy.. DL

Thursday 4th August
A letter arrived from Grasmere today, addressed to Richard. I confess that my interest was piqued, but I had to contain my impatience until Richard arrived home. He took the letter into his study to read and when he re-emerged he had a serious look on his face.

“This letter is from Mama. It seems that Lady Ellen is not well. She has had a cough for some weeks and Mama fears that she might be failing. I feel that I must visit her.”

I too felt very distressed at this news since I have developed great respect and affection for the old lady. I begged Richard to allow me to accompany him. He demurred, citing my current state but I assured him that the baby is not due until November and by then we would have returned to Oxford. Finally, after some thought he agreed to my request. He wishes to leave Oxford as soon as possible, so I agreed to be ready by Saturday morning. Richard will write to his parents and tell them to expect us probably next Tuesday or Wednesday. I do wish that there was some way of notifying them with more dispatch and I’m sure this will be the case in the future.

I confess that for some time I have been feeling more than a little bored. I know that I live a privileged life and there are many women who would envy me and gladly change places with me, but as far as weekdays go, they are often so alike that I long for the weekend and Richard’s presence. Now, the thought of him being away for perhaps a month was not something I would look forward to with equanimity, and besides, I felt that a change of scenery would do me good.

Tomorrow, Richard will be explaining the situation to his fellow company members, and I must start arranging for our journey. We will take our own coach this time and Marie and Anna will accompany us in addition to Elizabeth, also the coachman and Richard’s valet. The house will be left in the competent hands of Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson. Suddenly I find myself becoming very busy and I cannot honestly say that I am not pleased. I immediately informed Marie and Anna and they set about assembling all that we would need to take with us. Richard arranged for the coach to be ready by eight o’clock Saturday morning.

Friday 5th August
Today I had a meeting with Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson regarding the management of the house while we are away which I estimated would be not more than one month. I have the utmost confidence in their competence and they will of course write to Richard if there is anything out of the ordinary which requires his attention and decision. Marie and Anna have worked hard packing. In my present condition I will not be attending any social events. But they are taking the precaution of packing mourning dress which I hope will not be needed.

Saturday 6th August Written at Northampton
There was a delay in starting out thanks to one of the horses being lame, but we made reasonable progress, and the inn where we are staying is of good quality. I managed to sleep during part of the journey, the road being tolerably smooth.

Sunday 7th August.
I confess that I felt rather uncomfortable during today’s journey but I kept my discomfort to myself lest Richard should rebuke me for insisting on coming on the trip north. I was unable to sleep, so am retiring to bed early this evening.

Tuesday 8th August
Richard decided that rather than spend another night on the road we would press on to Grasmere even though it meant that we arrived about eight o’clock in the evening. I am sure that Sir John and Lady Elizabeth were a little surprised to see us but being perfect hosts, they did not express any negative feelings.

When we were alone, Lady Elizabeth did express some surprise in seeing me but I assured her that I am feeling well, and that the babe is causing me no trouble. Richard and I were relieved to find that Lady Ellen is feeling a lot better. She retires early so we will see her in the morning.

Wednesday 9th August.
After breakfast, we presented ourselves to Lady Ellen. She was wearing her customary black silk dress and sitting in the drawing room in front of a roaring fire although the weather was quite warm. I made to curtsey but she stopped me saying that I should not attempt it in my condition.

“I am surprised to see you young people here today which I understand is in response to a letter suggesting that I was not in the best of health,” she said, and I confess that I blushed in response.

She smiled, “Pray do not think that I am not pleased to see you again; it was a very pleasant surprise to be informed of your presence at breakfast but in view of your condition, do you think it was wise my dear?"

“The babe is not due until November, Lady Ellen,” I said. “We are very pleased to see you restored to good health. I think we many stay a couple of weeks and then return to Oxford.”

“Well I will enjoy your company while you are here, and also to see young Eliazabeth. It was such a kind thought to send me a sketch of her, and now I shall enjoy the real thing! Perhaps you can bring her to see me after luncheon?”

This I agreed to do, and Elizabeth acquitted herself very well, even attempting a curtsey during which she nearly took a tumble but fortunately righted herself.

“What a darling little mite she is,” said Lady Ellen, obviously greatly taken with her.”Will she come nearer to me?”

I said to Elizabeth “This is your great grandmama Ellen. Shall we go closer to let her see you?”

Elizabeth looked doubtfully at me, so I took her hand and walked across the room.

“Do not be frightened my child, I won’t bite,” said Lady Ellen, with a smile. Perhaps not the best choice of words, but fortunately it didn’t seem to frighten Elizabeth.

“And soon you will have a little brother or sister to play with,” said Lady Ellen, and then to my surprise, she reach to her left and produced a beautiful doll. This is my doll which I was given when I was a little girl just like you; I would like you to have her.” So saying she held the doll out to Elizabeth who stepped closer and took it.

“Say ‘Thank you, Lady Ellen’, I prompted her, and she whispered “Thank you”, obviously rather overawed.

Lady Ellen smiled. “What a pretty little thing she is – she reminds me of … but no matter.”

I wondered what she had been about to say before she checked herself, but it would have been rude to enquire.

“Time for your nap now, Elizabeth, say ‘Goodbye Lady Ellen’,” I said but Elizabeth clutched her new doll and said nothing. I made a very brief curtsey and we left the room. I don’t know how she stands the heat in the room, but I suppose her blood is thin with her advanced age.

Friday 2nd September
This evening we had a farewell dinner with the whole family, including Rev David d’Anglais and his wife Lillian. I confess I did not feel terribly well, and ate little but I could not excuse myself without seeming rude. I was relieved when the party concluded and I could retire to bed.

To be continued

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Chapter 11 In memorium

(Leonora did not write in her journal for three weeks and when she did the reason is obvious. On the first page the ink was smeared from droplets of water, no doubt tears. D.L.)

Friday 23rd September
Our darling son Richard is with the angels, and it is all my fault. Why was I so stubborn in insisting I travelled to Grasmere with Richard? If I had stayed safely in Oxford this might never have happened. But I was foolish and insisted on having my own way, and now we have suffered the consequences. May God forgive me for I cannot forgive myself.

Richard is so kind. He says it is not my fault and would have happened anyway, but is he saying that just to be kind to me? I know how much he wanted a son and heir and now I have failed him with my stubborn insistence of my own way.

Each night I pray for my darling son to watch over us but how I wish, oh how I wish he was still with us. Life can be so cruel. How could he have been taken from us so soon? People say it is God’s will, but how could God be so cruel? I know that sounds blasphemous, but I cannot help it. I have carried my son in my womb for seven months and now he is gone and lies in the cold damp ground.

It has taken me three weeks to summon up the courage to write these words. It all began the day after what was to have been our farewell dinner with the family. I awoke early on the Saturday morning and straight away knew that all was not well. I started to experience pains and they were very like the ones I had before giving birth to Elizabeth. But how could this be? Our babe was not due for another two months.

I called for Marie and told her of my symptoms and she agreed that they were very alike the start of childbirth. She suggested that I stayed in bed and tried to relax. This I did and for a time the pains ceased, but about two hours later they returned and more intense. Marie informed Richard who had been sleeping separately for the past few weeks since I was so uncomfortable with the babe in my womb. He came to see me and was most concerned. He suggested speaking to Lady Elizabeth and requesting information about a suitable local midwife.

A few minutes later, Lady Elizabeth came to see me and asked about my symptoms. She informed me that she would send for Mrs Simmons whose mother had attended her at the birth of her two daughters, Sarah and Lucy. “She is highly recommended, having been taught by her mother who was an excellent midwife,” she said. I opened my mouth to thank her and then another contraction struck and I gasped with the pain.

Mrs Simmons arrived an hour later by which time I had transferred to a bed prepared for childbirth and my waters had broken. I subjected myself to an intimate examination, after which she said there was no doubt that I had entered an early labour. She looked grave when I told her that the babe was not due for another two months, and that I had not felt him kicking as vigorously as Elizabeth did.

“The child will be immature madam, but may still live,” she said, and I confess that up to that moment I had not entertained the possibility of my child not surviving.
The labour continued hour after hour, I need hardly describe it here, and late in the afternoon about four o’clock I was delivered of our son. He cried weakly as he slipped from my body, and after some cleansing, he was delivered to my arms. He was so small and seemed feeble. I put his mouth to my breast as I had done with Elizabeth but he did not have the energy to suckle. Mrs Simmons looked very serious and recommended that I send for a clergyman to baptize him as soon as possible.

“I have seen instances where baptism results in an increase in an infant’s viability,” she said. The Rev David d’Anglais was sent for and bless him he arrived just over an hour later together with Lillian, his wife. He had brought the holy water with him which had been warmed slightly in the kitchen to avoid causing any shock to our baby.

"Have you selected a name for your son?” he asked, and Richard told him that he was to be Richard John.

I handed over the babe to David and he held him gently and poured a few drops of the warmed water on his head, saying “I baptize thee Richard John d’Anglais, in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”

We all said ‘Amen’, and then Richard was returned to my arms. The Sir John and Lady Elizabeth had kindly agreed to be godparents, and that part of the baptismal service was read and promises made. After the men had left the room, I attempted to get Richard to feed again and was delighted when he managed to suckle a little. Perhaps the sacrament had been of temporal benefit to him?

I lay In bed all day and all night, holding my child to keep him warm and willing him to live. Since he seemed to lack the strength to suckle much, Marie suggested that I express some milk which she would try to get him to drink, and he did manage a few drops, but he was still very listless and the fear grew within me.

It was on the following morning, the second day after Richard’s birth. Totally exhausted, I had fallen asleep while holding him and when I awoke my first thought was of him, but he was cold and did not move.

I called his name, quietly and then louder and even shook him slightly, but to no avail, his spirit had departed. I think I screamed because Marie who was sitting in a chair next to my bed and had also fallen asleep, awoke with a start and rushed to the bed. The next hour or more is a blur. Richard was sent for and he immediately saw what had happened. I still held Richard, tears streaming down my face, willing him to live, rocking him gently, and praying hard to God and all the angels to give our boy back to me, but all to no avail. Rev David was sent for and he came and said the prayers for the dead over our son – something no parent should ever have to hear said for their child.

“Dear Lord, when a young person dies, we grieve over his loss and struggle to understand his death. Draw him to yourself and give him fullness of life in Christ. May he join all the angels and saints, who know your love and saving will. Amen.”

Then he said the Lord’s Prayer and some other prayers, but I confess I was in a daze and hardly understood anything. All I could think was ‘Our son is dead’. A poem came to my mind I don’t know from whence. I’m sure there was more but I could not remember it or where I had heard it:

‘The stars are not wanted now; put out every one,
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun,
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood;
For nothing now can ever come to any good’.

I held my darling son for a long time even though I knew in my heart of hearts that it would be to no avail. Finally, my darling Richard came to me. There were tears streaming down his face, the first time I had ever seen him cry.

“It is time for me to take him, my darling,” he said, and with one final kiss, I handed over our son to his father who took him in his arms with infinite gentleness and tenderly carried him from the room. Then it was that I gave myself over to my grief and cried and cried until I had no more tears to shed. Then, so I am told, I slept for a day and a night.

Richard’s funeral was set down for the Friday. I had only just got out of bed, but I insisted upon going to the Grasmere churchyard. Richard did his best to dissuade me but I cried and begged him and finally he relented. I had carried Richard in my womb for seven months, I felt I must be present at the final act. How ironic that the black dress I had brought along in case of Lady Ellen’s death was now put to use in the worst circumstance possible.

We travelled down to the churchyard by closed carriage in a drizzling rain, my face shrouded in a heavy veil and when I left the carriage, my tears mixed with those from heaven. Richard supported me as I stood by the grave for the final prayers. At the moment when the little white coffin was taken up to be lowered into the earth, I felt the world around me swaying and remembered no more.

I awoke and found myself lying in bed looking up at a strange ceiling. I heard a noise and turning my head saw Richard looking at me with a face full of concern.

“What happened?” I asked him.

“You fainted my dear. Uncle David insisted that we bring you into the parsonage to recover.”

“What time is it?” I asked and he told it was five o’clock. Gradually it came back to me – the mourners in black standing around the grave in the drizzling rain, the small white coffin holding the body of our son; how I had kissed it and laid a single red rose upon it, the final prayers and then … nothing.

Lillian came into the room. “How are you, my dear?” she said. How was I? I, who had just seen my child’s body committed to the earth? I swallowed the retort which rose to my lips – she meant well. “Better, thank you,” I said.

“Please stay the night with us,” she said. “Richard will stay with you.” I felt too exhausted to do anything but agree.

“Your maid Marie is here,” she said. “She will look after you too.”

“Elizabeth,” I said faintly, and she assured me that Elizabeth was in good health and being well looked after by Anna.

I could not hold my eyes open any more and fell asleep again.

The following morning, I felt a little better and after Marie helped me to dress, I ate a little porridge before the coach took me, Richard and Marie back to Grasmere Hall.
Everyone has been so kind and sympathetic. They brought Elizabeth to me and I held her close until she squealed and I realized that I was holding her too tightly, so I released my grip on her. She looked frightened and I nearly burst into tears again. Anna led her away to the nursery making soothing noises and telling her that Mummy wasn’t very well.

The following day I was still lying in bed at the insistence of the apothecary who had visited with a restorative draught for me to drink, when I was informed that I had a visitor. To my extreme surprise it was Lady Ellen. She came to sit by my bedside. Marie stood by and Lady Ellen politely asked her if she would excuse us for a while. Marie looked surprised, but curtseyed and left the room.

“I came to see you, my dear, because I know what it is like to lose a child – in fact I lost two.”

I reached out to her and she took my hand.

“It is so cruel, Lady Ellen, and I know, I just know that in the future babies like Richard will be saved.” Then realising what I had said, I stopped and blushed.

Lady Ellen smiled. “I believe you my dear because I believe you have the gift of second sight. I have it to a degree myself and I believe that you will have more children and I do not believe you will lose any more.”

“How do you know about the second sight?” I asked her in a whisper.

“Just some remarks you have made,” she replied

“But does it not stand to reason?“ I said. “Just as we know more than the Tudors did, so in centuries to come, there will be knowledge that we cannot imagine.”

“I believe you, but let me caution you to have a care in what you say, even to your husband. Thankfully we no longer live in an era when wise women were burnt as witches, but people might still imagine that you were losing your mind,” she said, looking very serious.

“I promise to take your advice, Lady Ellen,” I said. “I have been careless, and I will be more careful in future.” I knew that by my admission I was confirming her feelings about me, but I felt instinctively that I could trust her.

“How will I ever recover from the loss of my son?” I asked her.

“You will my dear; time heals all wounds, but you will never forget him. I remember my own lost children Robert and Elizabeth and I think of them every day.”

I worried about how the news of our loss would be received back in Oxford and found it difficult to face the sympathy which would inevitably be expressed. Richard kindly offered to write to my parents, Sarah, Lucy, and the Studleigh Park family, and also Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson. It was very kind of him as I did not know how I could face writing.

I should mention that I know Richard had suffered from the loss of our son as well. I know it is not considered manly for a husband to show his feelings, but I had seen his red eyes and knew that he had wept privately on more than one occasion.

Sunday 25th September
Today we attended the service at St Oswald’s. Before it started, we visited the grave of our son and left some fresh flowers. I managed to keep my emotions under control – just a few tears escaped my eyes. Richard had arranged for a temporary wooden cross but it will be replaced with a small gravestone as soon as it is complete. I would like to have been there for the dedication, but it will be some weeks until it is ready, and Richard needs to return to Oxford as we have already been away longer than expected. Richard’s Uncle David has promised to take especial care of Richard’s grave and see that fresh flowers are placed on it every week. That makes me feel much happier than I have been in weeks.

Wednesday 28th September
On Thursday we will have a family farewell dinner before we leave on Friday. This afternoon I received a request from Lady Ellen to attend her in the drawing room. When I entered the room, she was seated as usual in front of the fire. I curtseyed and took the seat opposite her – two women in black gowns.

“Thank you for coming to see me, my dear. I wanted to see you because I do not believe I will be here when you next visit and I wanted to speak to you. Now do not look at me like that, I have lived a good life, a privileged life, but now I am ready to go and join my husband Donald in the afterlife where my old bones will no longer ache from the cold. When I go, I expect Richard will want to come here but I do not want you to come; I can’t explain why but I have my reasons. Just bring some fresh flowers to my resting place when you next visit – that is all I ask.”

“I will comply with your request, Lady Ellen,” I replied.

“Remember, one day you might find yourself in my position, many years from now.”

I did not like to think of that since it would mean that I was to become the dowager Lady Leonora, but realistically I suppose it might happen. Women as a rule do tend to live longer than their husbands provided that they survive childbirth.

“I intend to leave most of my jewelry to you, my dear, with some items for Lucy and Sarah, and you in turn can leave it to your children.”

This is the second time she had referred to my children; she seems to think that I will have a number of them.

“Finally, my dear, I want to say how pleased I am that Richard married you; you have made a very good wife to him and I know that like so many men, he depends upon your support. Now, I can see that you are looking a little tired, so I suggest you have a rest, and I will see you again at the farewell dinner tomorrow.”

I stood and knelt before her and kissed her hand. She in turn rested her hand on my head in a blessing and said quietly:

“The Lord bless you, and keep you:
The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you:
The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace”.

“Amen,” I said.

Thursday 29th September
Today I received a very kind letter from Mr William Wordsworth expressing the condolences of his family on the loss of our son. Coming from someone who lost two children last year, I know that they are all cognisant of how we are feeling. He did conclude by saying that they are now settled into a new house, Rydall Mount which is infinitely better than their previous abode and they hope that the next time we are at Grasmere that we will do them the honour of visiting them. That is something I would certainly like to do.

The dinner this evening was a fairly sombre affair even though we did our best to lighten the occasion. We did not keep a late night since we ae to leave for Oxford in the morning. In addition to Sir John and Lady Elizabeth and Lady Ellen who sat next to me, the Rev David and his wife Lillian also attended.

To be continued

Author's note: The poem quoted from is 'Funeral Blues' by W.H. Auden written in 1936

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Chapter 12 A time of sorrow and joy

Friday 30th September.
This morning we left in our coach for Oxford. It will take four days until we arrive, and how I long for a more comfortable and speedy means of transport which might deliver us there in one day.

Monday 3rd October
Late this afternoon we arrived in Oxford. The household was expecting us and as usual, many of the staff were lined up on the steps to the front door – the women curtseying and the men bowing, their faces solemn. Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson were stood at the top to greet us and escort us to our rooms. Marie and Anna followed, accompanied by young Elizabeth.

After we had settled in and changed into fresh garments, Mrs Danvers requested to see me.

“We were so sorry to hear of your loss ma’am. It has been decided that rather than all of the staff individually expressing their condolences, that Mr Anderson and I should represent the whole staff in expressing the sadness we all felt at the news.”

“That is very kind of you Mrs Danvers. I know that I am not the only woman to have lost a child, but it has been a dreadful experience and I know it will take some time for Mr d’Anglais and I to recover from it.”

Mrs Danvers hesitated for a moment and then said, “I hope I do not speak out of turn ma’am, but I too lost a child so I have some understanding of how you are feeling.”

This was the first time she had ever mentioned her own family and I had not thought it appropriate for me to pry. Now that she had done so I felt it appropriate to say: “Thank you for sharing that confidence with me Mrs Danvers – it is some consolation to know that there is someone else in the household who understands my feelings.”

Mrs Danvers gave me a faint smile, curtseyed, and left my dressing room. I decided that I should not share this confidence with anyone, not ever Richard.

Wednesday 5th October
Today I visited Mama, after sending her a note and receiving her assent. When I was shown into the drawing room, we hugged and tears were shed on both sides.

“I wish I had been present to comfort you in the intensity of your grief,” said Mama, and I assured her that it had been my insistence upon travelling to Grasmere which had very likely triggered the premature death of my son.

“It is something for which I can never forgive myself,” I said, but Mama was quick to reassure me saying that the travelling was unlikely to be the cause. She hesitated for a moment and then said, “Did you never wonder why there are so many years between your birth and that of Emma? There Is a reason for that – in the interim I lost two children – the first, a boy, was stillborn, and the second a girl lived but a few hours. You can imagine how bereft your Papa and I were, and I had taken great care of myself while I awaited their birth, but to no avail since we still lost them. Indeed we had made up our minds not to seek another child, but as you see, we were rewarded with Emma and I never stop thanking our Saviour for the gift of her.”

“Thank you so much for sharing that confidence with me, Mama. Forgive me asking, but I would like to seek your advice on what is an appropriate length of time to be in mourning.”

“It is largely a matter of your own decision, my darling. I was advised that full mourning for three months and half mourning for three months is suitable for an infant.”

“Then I shall adopt your suggestion, Mama,” I said. It's strange how she and Mrs Danvers might never have shared their losses with me if I had not lost Baby Richard. I'm sure that like me, they will never forget their lost children.

Mention of Emma made me realise that I could hear the sound of the pianoforte in the music room, I suspected a Beethoven sonata was being played beautifully.
“Is that Emma’s music teacher playing?” I asked Mama. She smiled proudly and said, ‘No, that is Emma herself; she has proved to have a great talent for music. Besides playing so well, she has even composed a few short pieces, which appeal greatly to me and her Papa, but then perhaps we are biased,” she said with a smile.
I was suitably impressed. “She far exceeds me; thank goodness she does not play the harp as well or I would feel permanently in her shadow,” I said with a smile, perhaps the first I had expressed in a month.

Just then, the music stopped, and a few minutes later Emma appeared in the room. She stopped short at the sight of me in my black mourning dress, but then recovered herself and ran to me and we hugged each other.

“Dear, dear Leonora, I was so sorry to hear of your sad loss,” she said, tears running down her cheeks, and then she blushed deeply.

“That is very kind of you Emma, “ I said. “My baby Richard is now in Heaven, so we must try not to be too sad even though I wish he was still here on earth with me.” Then changing the subject, I said “I heard you playing the pianoforte and I must say that you greatly exceed my talents.” If anything Emma’s blush increased. “Mamma tells me that you have composed a few works yourself. When it is convenient, I would dearly love to hear them.” By now, her blushes would have lit the room if it had been evening.

Emma showed signs of her growing maturity when she enquired about baby Elizabeth.

I confess I gasped “Goodness me, it has slipped my mind that she is waiting in the coach with Anna the nursery maid. She hates to see her Mama cry and I feared that there would be tears when I first arrived. Dear Emma, please ask for her to be sent here.”

A few minutes later, Anne entered the room, carrying Elizabeth. Upon setting her down, she ran to Emma with whom she has a special affinity, and Emma stooped down and hugged her, and then led her to her grandmother, who greeted her kindly. I must never forget that I am blessed to have one living child, and such a sweet one.

Mama rang the bell for tea to be served. I must confess that it was somewhat difficult to make small talk, but Mama is very experienced, and she asked me about Sir John, Lady Elizabeth and Lady Ellen, and I managed to keep the conversation going. I did not mention Lady Ellen’s confidence to me of course, and merely said that she was in better health than we anticipated when we travelled there, which was perfectly true.

Friday 7th October
Today I visited Studleigh Park and saw Lucy and Sarah. In many ways it mimicked my visit to Mama. Tears were shed again and sincere condolences given. It was something that had to be done but now it is over, and I pray to God that it is never repeated. Baby Freddie grows apace and I know he will be a fine young man in due course.

Sunday 9th October
We attended church this morning – really the only social event which it is appropriate for me to attend while I am in full mourning. Rev’d Irvine included a prayer for the recently departed but was kind enough not to mention my loss by name. Dressed as I was in full mourning, it was obvious what had happened, and it was necessary for me to endure the kind thoughts and condolences of the congregation members, but now it is done and need not be repeated.

Friday 25th November
A month before we celebrate Christmas. On the 7th of December, I will change to ‘half-mourning. I do not regret the three months of full mourning – how could I ? but for a mother it can be a dreary time of great solitude as it is not seemly for me to pay social visits. For a man it is not so restricted. Richard wears a black tie and had to endure the kind expressions of condolence as I have, but he is still able to attend his office and conduct some cases. I can now start to resume social activities and also wear gowns of a sombre hue such as violet, mauve, or lavender.

Friday 2nd December
A letter arrived today, addressed to Richard and in his mother’s hand. She is a fairly frequent correspondent. I did wonder at its contents but nevertheless had to wait until he came home when he read the contents to me. It seems that they believe Lady Ellen to be fading and that this coming Yuletide will likely be her last, so Sir John especially wishes to spend the Festive Season with her. I can quite understand that especially in light of what Lady Ellen told me. I long for the day when a better form of transport can reduce the time of travel between Oxford and Grasmere to less than four days. I’m sure it will happen.

Tuesday 20th December
As we did last year, we again entertained the children of the staff to an afternoon of dancing, singing and an excellent afternoon tea by Mrs Walker, especially designed to appeal to young palates, with many jellies, cakes and sweetmeats of every variety. Emma again played the pianoforte beautifully for us to enjoy the dancing and singing of carols.

There was a dramatic incident which thankfully was resolved without any great distress. The Christmas tree has a number of candle which can be lighted as the afternoon starts to draw in, carefully installed too high for children to reach, but while the children were gadding about, one of the taller boys slipped, and putting out his hand to steady himself he took hold of the tree trunk and shook it, so that one of the candles tipped over and in seconds a branch of the tree was alight. As so often happens in those circumstances, there was total silence for a moment as everybody present absorbed what was happening and froze. I claim no congratulations, but I was the first to move. There was a large jug of sweetened water on the table next to me, so rising I took hold of it and approaching the tree, threw the contents over the burning branch, fortunately extinguishing the flames. With the danger over, everyone starting talking at once and there were gasps and cheers and I was complimented on my quick thinking. I am of the opinion it was self-preservation, since if the flames had spread we could have rapidly seen a dangerous conflagration spread throughout the room, putting both adults and children in their fragile finery in great danger, so ‘All’s well that ends well’ as Mr Shakespeare puts it
.
Friday 23rd December
The Michaelmas legal term finished two days ago, and my brother John has returned to Oxford. He called in briefly to see me before travelling on to Studleigh Park to see Sarah and the rest of the family. I’m sure they will be very happy to see him.. We had some tea and a short conversation. It seems he has had a very successful year with a number of lucrative cases in the Royal Courts of Justice and is well on his way to making his fortune. He had promised Sarah that he would return to Oxford where he intends to set up a practice so that he would be nearer to her, and there is no doubt that they are anxious to marry. John’s main concern is that Sir John and Lady Elizabeth may think that his fortune is not yet great enough to keep Sarah in the style of which they would approve.

On that I could not help him. However, Papa has an offer which I think he should accept for the time being. Before Papa inherited Northbridge House, we lived in a large house which is part of a terrace close to the university, and also Studleigh Park. It had been rented out for some years but the family who rented it had indicated their intention to leave in three months, and Papa offered it to John, at least until he could afford a mansion of his own. I should mention that Papa refused to accept any rent for the property and also he has informed John that he will not accept a return of the money he gave him to assist him while he was studying in London. I never met a more generous man than my Papa.

Sarah tells me in confidence that she has written to her mama begging her support in obtaining her Papa’s permission to marry John, saying that she would marry no other man due to their mutual affection and regard for each other. Lady Elizabeth has written back suggesting that John travel to Grasmere to speak to Sir John in person to state his case for permission to marry Sarah. As he is an accomplished orator, I have every hope that he will obtain that permission.

A few weeks ago, Richard had told me that the lawyer who usually worked with Richard and the other partners, was getting quite elderly and wanted to retire. I said nothing at the time although I immediately thought that this might be an ideal position for John, at least as an initial position. I felt that as a wife, it was important that Richard should think that the idea was his, so I waited a couple of days and then casually mentioned about John’s intention to return to Oxford to set up a practice. To my surprise (!) Richard commented that he wondered if John might be interested in working with him and his partners, I of course praised his wonderful idea, and he straight away wrote to John in London, asking if he would like to discuss the proposition. He soon received a reply saying that John wouldd be most happy to discuss the possible position with them when he returned to Oxford at the end of the Michaelmas term. I do hope that their discussions are fruitful.

Sunday 25th December Christmas Day
Today was a cold clear day, and as is our wont, after an exchange of gifts, we attended the morning service at St Nicholas’ church. Rev Irvine gave his usual brief but appropriate sermon. Elizabeth accompanied us today, but her very presence could not but help make me think of the son who should have been here but isn’t. I said a silent prayer to him in Heaven to look down upon us and beg the Lord to bless us.

We enjoyed a traditional Christmas luncheon with our relatives at Studleigh Park, thus allowing the majority of the staff at Marston House to have the day off. Having baby Elizabeth and young Freddie with us made for a very enjoyable day. I am convinced that the presence of children really makes for an enjoyable Christmas. How I wish that her baby brother was present. The two children have now reached that stage of maturity where they can move around with uncertain steps and accept presents, even if they do not actually know what they are for. We returned home in the late afternoon. Mrs Walker had left us a cold collation for an evening meal at my suggestion.

Monday 26th December, Boxing Day
As is traditional, most of the staff had another day off and received the traditional gift. Today we travelld to my parents’ home at Northbridge House for luncheon and exchange of gifts. I managed to secure a few private minutes with my brother John. He intends to meet with Richard and his partners tomorrow, and then travel onto Grasmere to speak to Sir John face to face and request his permission to make an offer of matrimony to Sarah. I know that she intends to write another letter for John to give to her mother, begging for her support in achieving a satisfactory outcome for their request. I believe that John making the trip to Grasmere will convince Sir John of his seriousness. I do hope that he returns with good news – I know that Sarah is counting on it.

Monday 1st January 1815 New Year’s Day
Last evening, we attended a New Year’s Ball at Studleigh Park, the first big social event I have attended in the last four months, and while my gown was of a sombre lavender hue and I did not dance, nonetheless it was very pleasant to meet some of my acquaintances again and wish them a Happy New Year, something I sincerely wish for myself and Richard. John was present and danced his two sets with Sarah. I can see the glow on her face while she is with him – they are so much in love. I will pray that John returns from Grasmere with good news.

Thursday 12th January
John returned from Grasmere today, and called in on me, Richard being at work.. He arrived at Grasmere last Friday, stayed for the weekend and left to return home on Monday. I was all agog to hear his news and he was anxious to confide in me. The news was probably not all that he and Sarah wanted, but was generally positive. His interview with Sir John had progressed well. He had been able to inform Sir John that he had agreed to a position with Richard’s law firm and also set up a home for Sarah and himself in Papa’s terrace house, which is quite spacious, until such time that he can afford to purchase something bigger.

Sir John was a little concerned that John’s fortune while steadily growing was not yet great, so his compromise was that while he appreciated that John and Sarah were promised to each other, if in six months he deemed John’s fortune to be sufficient, (and they had agreed upon a sum), then John could make his offer to Sarah and a wedding could be arranged. I do hope that Sarah is not disappointed with this arrangement. I suggested that John emphasise the positive aspects of the arrangement and mention that Sir John was only concerned for Sarah’s welfare.

“Be prepared for some tears, but they will pass, and six months is not too long.” I said. John smiled and agreed with me. “It is up to me to generate as much income as possible in that time,” he said. I asked him to call back on his way to Northbridge House and tell me what happened.

I’m pleased to say that Sarah took the news very well. She feels sure that John will enlarge his fortune sufficiently for their wedding to take place later in the year, and indeed she will look forward to making tentative arrangements in private on how it can all be arranged.

To be continued

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Chapter 13 Bad news and good news
(There were few entries in the Journal for the next two months and then an entry of some significance. J.D.)

Wednesday 1st March St David’s Day.
We have received a letter with black margins from Grasmere informing us that Lady Ellen has peacefully passed away. It is strange that I dreamed of her last night and she was wearing a white gown, something I have never seen her wear before. She told me that she was going to be with her husband again and wished me joy of my coming child! I must say that I have not started my monthly courses since last September, but I know that most women do not for a period of time, presumably allowing their bodies to rest after a birth. However, this morning I felt nauseated when I awoke, and this together with my dream makes me suspect that perhaps I am to have another child. I confess a feeling of excitement but also dread. I could not bear to lose another child and I pray to God that I do not.

Having had no monthly courses since I last gave birth makes it difficult for me to work our when the babe may be born. I have discussed the situation with Marie, and in her opinion I might be three months into my pregnancy, so the babe will be due to be born in September. As a precaution, I am going to take great care this time and will not be going on any long journeys.

Richard feels that he should go to Grasmere to pay his respects to Lady Ellen, but I don’t think he will be there in time for the funeral. He will leave by stagecoach tomorrow. I wrote a letter of condolence to Sir John and Lady Elizabeth which Richard will present to them. I really liked that old lady – we seemed to have a lot in common.

Saturday 11th March
Richard arrived home today. As expected, he was too late for Lady Ellen’s funeral, but he was able to visit her grave, as yet without a headstone, in order to pay his respects and to lay a floral tribute on behalf of us both, and say a prayer. While he was at Grasmere, he took the opportunity to say a good word for John and gained the impression that Sir John and Lady Elizabeth fully expect him to marry Sarah – it is only a matter of the timing.

Wednesday 29th March
I am now quite convinced that I am to have another child. Richard has been informed and is very pleased. He understands perfectly how I intend to take great care this time. I am pleased that he did not ask why my pregnancy is so far advanced before I told him – I really did not want to explain the intricacies of the female body to him, it would have been so embarrassing.

Wednesday 12th April
Today I received a visit from Mrs Jenkins, the midwife who attended me when my daughter Elizabeth was born. She examined me carefully. I explained to her about the lost of baby Richard and how, not having resumed my monthly courses I was unsure of when the new babe might be expected to arrive. I was pleased that she gave her opinion as it happening sometime in September, which was what I thought likely. She also reassured me that the new baby seemed very healthy to her and I must say the way he is kicking already seems a good sign.

Saturday 8th July
Today we entertained to dinner John, Sarah, Lucy and Freddie. I had a feeling that John and Sarah were holding back some news, but somehow they managed to contain themselves until the end of the meal. Then they broke the news to us that Sir John has given his official permission for Sarah and John to marry. I am so pleased for them both. Richard was so pleased that he arranged for a very old bottle of wine to be opened for us to toast their health I know that John has been working so hard to build up his fortune and Sarah has supported him by limiting the amount of time that he visited her so that he could devote more time to his work. Meanwhile Sarah has spent quite a deal of time buying some furniture and setting it out in their new home, where John is already living with the assistance of a cook and two maids.

Sarah continues to live at Studleigh Park of course, and they did not trouble Sir John and Lady Elizabeth with news of what they were doing to prepare the house for when they are married. I certainly concur with this decision. I was quite convinced that Sir John would give his permission but the news that it was anticipated might not be well received. John informed us that they wish to marry without unnecessary delay and Sir John and Lady Eliabeth will take their carriage down from Grasmere for the occasion.

The first reading of the banns at St Nicholas church will take place next Sunday and the wedding ceremony itself is expected to be held on Saturday 5th of August. Alas my advanced state of pregnancy will make it impossible for me to attend the church but I can be present at the wedding breakfast which will take place at Northbridge House later that day, and will consist chiefly of the families and very few other guests. I expect this to be my last social event before I am brought to bed of my next child.

Saturday 29th July
Sir John and Lady Elizabeth arrived in their coach today, along with the usual maids and manservants. The Rev David and his wife Lillian had also been invited but alas due to the difficulty of obtaing a locum to hold services they had regretfully declined. They have however sent a wedding present together with an invitation to visit them in Grasmere whenever is convenient. Sir John and Lady Elizabeth will stay with us until after the wedding and then go to Studleigh Park for at least a week. The reason for this as Lady Elizabeth explained it in a letter prior to their arrival, is that they do not wish to distract Sarah and Lucy from their arrangements in preparation for Sarah’s wedding to John. I think that is very thoughtful of them. We assembled on the steps to greet them as usual, and of course Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson have arranged everything perfectly for their arrival.

Lady Elizabeth had a surprise for me which had slipped my mind thanks to all the other things occupying it, not least the babe growing inside me. She produced a beautiful jewelry box and informed me that this was a gift to me from Lady Ellen. I confess to being struck dumb with the contents, which consisted of diamond rings, pearl necklaces, gold chains and a number of gold brooches which contained many precious stones - rubies, emeralds ,diamonds and others too numerous to mention. In total they must be worth some thousands of pounds. I did ask Lady Elizabeth if she would like to choose something as a memento of Lady Ellen, but she smilingly declined, saying that she had received gifts from her in the past. I am determined that I will offer Lucy and Sarah a choice of the contents since as relatives of her's it is only fair. Other items will be passed down to my children in due course.

Saturday 5th August The wedding day of Sarah and John. This account written on Sunday 6th Aug.
Due to my now being ‘great with child’ as the Good Book writes, it would not be appropriate for me to be part of the wedding party at St Nicholas where the ceremony took place at 10 o’clock. However, since Richard was to be John’s Best Man, to avoid travelling to and fro, it was decided that I would travel in the coach with him and also my maid Marie, and wait outside in the coach until the service was over. We could then travel directly to Northbridge House without having to return to our home. The coach was positioned so that I could get a view of the newly married couple when they emerged through the church doors.

When all the wedding party and some parishioners had entered the church and I could hear the organ playing, upon a whim I decided that I would not wait in the coach and miss the ceremony, so I asked Marie to get the coachman to assist me to alight, and then, accompanied by Marie we walked into the church while the organ still played. The verger saw me and opened his mouth to speak but I put my finger to my lips to indicate he should remain silent, and took a seat on the very back pew, next to the central aisle where I could obtain a good view of the ceremony.
I must say the Sarah looked very beautiful in her wedding gown which was quite exquisite, and John looked very handsome in his attire.

The service was beautiful and like most of the ladies present I shed a tear or two. During the final hymn Marie and I left the church and returned to our coach where I was able to see the happy couple emerge from the church to be greeted with handfuls of rice. After stepping into their carriage, we set off in a cavalcade of carriages, first Sarah and John, then Sir John and Lady Elizabeth; Mama and Papa and Emma, Freddie and Lucy, then Richard, I and Marie, and finally sundry other guests. I had regretfully decided that Elizabeth was still too young to attend. It was a beautiful sunny day and everyone was happy. Passersby on the street cheered when they saw all of the carriages pass by, with the bridal coach gaily adorned with white ribbons.

Arriving at Northbridge House, we were all shewn into the dining room which had been beautifully arranged with the most magnificent wedding breakfast. On this occasion, John took his place at the head of the table with Sarah looking radiant sitting on his right, and all the families arranged in order of precedence down the table. I confess that I took brief sips of wine during the toasts but otherwise confined myself to imbibing water. I was also abstemious in my consumption of the food, hard to do when there were so many delicacies on offer.

I must record that I had offered the services of Mrs Walker, the cook at Marston House, and any of her staff who would be useful to assist Mrs Chambers, my parents’ cook in the preparation of the meal. I know there is a legend to the effect that there exists no kitchen in Christendom which is large enough to accommodate two chief cooks, but I am happy to record that the two ladies concerned were friends and worked very well together. Mrs Walker was quite happy to occupy the role of ‘sous chef’ on this occasion. We also supplied some of our footmen to assist in the serving of the meal. Mama and Papa had accepted our offer with gratitude since the numbers present were larger than are normally accommodated for meals at Northbridge House. John made a point of sending word to the kitchen that he and Sarah could not have anticipated a more wonderful wedding breakfast and he thanked all the staff for their efforts. Later we will express our thanks with a monetary gift to all the staff involved.

It was late afternoon when the party broke up – John and Sarah took their leave of all the guests and departed on their honeymoon journey, and Richard and I, together with Marie, headed back to Marston House, which fortunately is only a short ride away. I was much too tired to write my journal on the day which is why I am writing this on the Sunday.

Wednesday 13th September
Yesterday, Sarah and John visited us upon their return from their honeymoon. Sarah positively glows with happiness and I should not be surprised if she has some news for us in the near future. They are now living in their new home and it is obvious that they are very happy. I hope we can visit them soon. It is now half-way through September and I am beginning to wonder if perhaps Mrs Jenkins and I miscalculated the date of my confinement. My babe is very active and I feel almost like a balloon ready to burst, but still nothing.

Oh goodness – it was foolish of me to write the above some thirty minutes ago. I have suddenly started to feel exactly how I felt when Elizabeth started her journey to be born. I must stop here and ring for Marie, and Richard must be notified. I pray most humbly to my Saviour for a happy outcome this time.

Sunday 17th September
I am now sufficiently recovered to record the events of the last two days. After I ceased my entry on Wednesday, it rapidly became obvious that I was about to start my confinement. Marie is such a comfort in these circumstances. Richard came to see me but of course there is nothing a husband can do at that time except to make himself scarce and pray for a happy outcome. I actually felt sorry for him, since like all sensitive men he felt some guilt that the woman he loves has to undergo the trial of giving birth, but in all honesty, I had been as happy to resume marital relations as he was and to a degree it helped us to overcome our sorrow. I knew I could rely entirely on Marie to know when Mrs Jenkins the midwife must be sent for, and Anna was charged with the important task of making sure that Elizabeth was kept out of earshot of her mother’s reactions to the pangs of childbirth. This I’m sure she was happy to do.

It was about half past the hour of three in the morning of Friday September 15th that I was safely delivered of a healthy baby boy. He cried lustily after birth and when I put him to my breast he sucked greedily to obtain his first nourishment. I quietly praised my Savious for giving us a robust son. When we were both ready for presentation to the world, Richard was informed and came to see us. He held the newborn in his arms and the joy on his face matched mine. We had discussed previously what he should be called (assuming it was a boy), and decided against John since that name should be reserved for John and Sarah. I suggested he could be called Richard after his late lamented brother, but Richard demurred and suggested instead that he be called Robert after his paternal grandfather. I was happy to concur, knowing that my Papa and Mama would be very pleased.

Today I have written short messages to send to Northbridge House, Studleigh Park, Sarah and John, and Grasmere, informing the family of our happy news. I’m sure they will all be as pleased as we are. Richard attended the morning service at St Nicholas’s church and informed the Rev Henry Irvine of our happy news. Mrs Danvers paid me a visit to offer congratulations on behalf of all the staff, and to admire the new addition to the family. She requested permission to inform any of the staff who had not yet heard of our glad tidings. I must remain abed for some days but hope to be up as soon as I feel able. I feel so very very happy.

Wednesday 20th September
Today I received visits from Mama and Emma, Lucy and Sarah who came to admire the new babe who is thriving. They all brought gifts, including a christening mug of finest silver from Mama and Papa, who as I predicted is so proud to have a grandson named after him. I am so fortunate that my prayers were answered. I feel sure that Robert will grow up to be a fine man. I felt able to leave my bed for a short while during the visit of my guests, but I confess that I am still very tired and retired again as soon as they left. Being women they easily discerned my fatigue and did not overstay their welcome, and Papa took his cue from them. Emma is so pleased to be an aunt once more and took her turn in nursing her young nephew. I must record that Elizabeth has been introduced to her baby brother and asked how soon she can play with him! I assured her that as soon as he is old enough they will have many happy times together.

Thursday 21st September
I had the strangest dream last night; indeed I wonder if it was a dream or a vision. As I lay in bed with baby Robert in the crib beside me, I thought that I arose and walked down a long white hall in a building I did not recognize, to another room in which a very pretty young woman lay in bed asleep. It was not a house, for there was a name above the head of the bed and it said ‘Mrs Fiona d’Anglais’. I could only conclude that it was a hospital room, but surely one in the future, since in my day, children both rich and poor are born at home. Beside the bed was a crib and as I silently moved across and looked in it I saw a beautiful newborn baby and the sign above her head read ‘Leonora Mary d’Anglais’. I think I must have gasped in surprise for the young woman opened her eyes and stared at me. She was not frightened – perhaps she thought I was a nurse in my white muslin gown? I smiled reassuringly at her and she smiled back and then closed her eyes again, quite content. I looked again at the babe and there was no doubt about it – she was so very alike my daughter Elizabeth when she was very young. So this was the future – what the year was I did not know although I guessed the later part of the twentieth century, and this baby was a descendant of mine, perhaps six generations on. I reached out and gently touched her head in the time-honoured gesture of a blessing, and she opened her eyes, looked at me and she smiled, such a beautiful smile. Then I awoke and the dream or vision was finished, but it is enough that I know that the family line lives on.

This entry completes the second volume of my Journal.

To be concluded

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EPILOGUE Prepared by Dora Longfort.

I have completed my transcription of the first two volumes of Leonora’s Journal, the object being to improve my typing skills which I flatter myself are greatly improved by the exercise. There are another five volumes of the Journal, and I don’t feel inclined to copy any more of them, at least at the present time. However, I cannot bring myself to discard all this hard work as it is just possible that some member of the family might wish to read the Journal in future and prefer the ease of a typewritten copy. I have read the rest of the journal and made notes of some interesting events in Leonora’s life, so have decided to write an Epilogue where I will include these events. Anyone who wishes to read the whole Journal can, of course refer to the original handwritten account, although in her final years Leonora’s writing becomes more difficult to understand. (Note: Dora did not realized that the handwritten journal was to be destroyed by fire).

After the birth of Robert, Leonora had four more children at approximately two-yearly intervals – next, another son John, named after his grandfather and uncle, was born in 1817, then twin girls named Margaret and Leonora born in 1820, and finally in 1823 another boy named Richard after his deceased older brother. They all survived and grew up to live fulfilling lives, married and had a number of children.

An interesting fact about Elizabeth, Leonora’s eldest daughter. It was a matter of considerable annoyance to Leonora that women students were not allowed to study at Oxford University and she insisted on Elizabeth and her sisters receiving a good academic education with private tutors like her brothers. Elizabeth’s eldest daughter Henrietta taught at Somerville Hall, the first Oxford college for women when it opened in 1879. Sadly, Leonora did not live to see it happen.

In 1817 Leonora received a letter from Miss Cassandra Austen informing that her sister Jane had passed away and was buried in Winchester Cathedral. Although they met only once, Jane had kindly sent Leonora signed copies of the first edition of the four novels published in her lifetime, and these were greatly treasured. I don’t know what happened to most of them, perhaps they were distributed amongst the family. In the copy of ‘Pride and Prejudice, treasured by the family and published anonymously, Jane included a note saying that in revising and retitling the manuscript (initially titled ‘First Impressions’) she wished for an opening sentence which would intrigue the reader and was reminded of Leonora’s remark of how her brother John had said that Richard, as a young single man with a good fortune must be in want of a wife, and hoped she did not object to Jane adapting this comment. In her journal. Leonora comments that John and Richard are in fact rather proud to be the anonymous sources of the quotation, some of the most famous opening lines in an English novel.

Leonora lived through the reigns of four monarchs; George III (during part of which his son George was Prince Regent, giving his name to the epoch which bears that name, and who became George IV), William IV. and finally Queen Victoria who ascended to the throne in 1837

Her younger sister Emma married Henry Fitzroy in 1821, whom she had first met as a young boy in Bath about eight years previously at a dance in the Pump Room. His family moved from Bath to Oxford in 1817. Although they had corresponded since that first meeting, now they were able to renew their acquaintanceship, meeting at balls and other social events, and their friendship grew into a romance.

Henry’s father had died of probable consumption two years earlier, leaving him with a good fortune. It was a true love match. Leonora often wrote of how her sister was a very talented player on the pianoforte from an early age. She was invited to play piano concertos with a talented amateur orchestra in Oxford, which she did to great acclaim, and visitors to the Bolton household often prevailed upon her to play for them. Although a shy girl, once placed before a pianoforte keyboard she was confidence personified.

This led to an unusual incident during their honeymoon in London. Intending to attend a concert in which the famous pianist Felix Cazot was to play Mozart’s piano concerto No 20, which Emma had played about a month previously in Oxford, Emma and Henry arrived at the theatre box office to book their seats and heard that Cazot had become indisposed and could not perform. At Henry’s suggestion, Emma, being familiar with the concerto offered her services and performed the work to great acclaim. As a non-professional, the theatre management presented her with a gold chain and pendant, and matching earrings as a gesture of thanks.

Emma and Henry were blessed with seven children, one of whom did not survive. Leonora became godmother to several of them. Henry inherited a large estate outside Oxford from a distant relative who had no heirs, and the family moved there. Emma discovered in herself the ability to manage the estate largely independant of Henry.

Lucy and Freddie had no less than ten children and her sister Sarah and Leonora’s brother John had seven, all of whom survived, which was rare, and a great blessing in those days. The two sisters continued to live close to each other all their lives and frequently visited each other and Leonora. In many ways they were like three sisters. Freddy was knighted around the same time as John Bolton and thus both sisters were styled ‘Lady’ They both lived into their late seventies, and when Sarah eventually died, Lucy joined her only a couple of months later. Their graves are side by side in an Oxford cemetery.

In 1835, Sir John d’Anglais died as the result of a fall from his horse while fox hunting. As a result, Richard inherited the estate in Grasmere and had to divide his time between Grasmere and Oxford, since it was decided that Leonora and the children should stay in Oxford while they received a good education. Travel between the two locations still required four days of coach travel, and it was not until the 1840s that the burgeoning railway network resulted in this mode of transport in addition to some coach travel reducing the travel time to less than two days. Leonora missed Richard greatly at this time but was prepared to endure the separation for the sake of their children. Richard was knighted not long after his father’s death, so Leonora became Lady d’Anglais.

Her parents lived a long life. After her father retired, he was appointed as Professor Emeritus at Oxford. Upon his passing, he bequeathed his collection of Egyptian artifacts to the museum there. This included the ushabti doll which had caused Leonora so much concern when she was gifted it from the British Museum.

Her brother John had a very successful career as a lawyer in Oxford. He was knighted for services to the law and was eventually appointed as a circuit judge in the County Court. He was noted for his great knowledge of the law, and fair judgements.

The whole family visited Grasmere from time to time and met with the Wordsworths on several occasions. On every occasion they visited the grave of their first-born son which was kept in immaculate condition under the supervision of Richard’s Uncle David who continued as vicar of St Oswald’s until his death at the age of seventy-eight.

Leonora and Richard retired to Grasmere in 1848. Both Marie and Anna remained with them for their whole working lives and both were given a generous pension and cottages on the Grasmere estate in which to live out their retirement years. They were always welcome to visit the Hall.

Mrs Danvers and Mr Anderson retired when the family left Oxford. A few years previously, Mrs Danvers’ husband Captain Danvers died when his ship foundered during a typhoon in the South China Sea, and after a period of mourning she married Mr Anderson, and they lived out their lives in his cottage outside Oxford.

Richard died of pneumonia on the 4th Aug 1852, aged 61. Leonora was heart-broken but live on until 8th August 1868, aged 75 after a long widowhood, but watched over by her family. Grasmere Hall was burnt to the ground in 1880 and all the contents were destroyed. It was fortunate that the two smaller paintings of Leonora and Richard had remained in Oxford.

It seems appropriate to conclude with the final entry in Leonora’s Journal, written two days before she died. The writing is hard to decipher but I believe that this is a fair copy.

6th August 1868
This will be the last entry in my journal as my sight is fading fast and so is my time on earth. I have been blessed to live the life of a privileged woman in the nineteenth century, having seen great changes and doubtless there are many more to come for my descendants to enjoy.

I have no fear of death since I believe that I will be reunited with those that I love, particularly my dear husband Richard. No wife could wish for a gentler and more loving husband than the one with whom I was blessed, and I have missed him so much since his passing. Finally, I look forward to seeing again my sweet babe Richard who lived upon this earth for too short a time.

May the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit descend upon us and remain with us always. Amen.

Leonora died on 8th August, surrounded by many of her family and was buried with her husband and first-born son in the cemetery at St Oswalds, Grasmere on 12th August 1868 at a ceremony attended by her family and friends.

So ends my transcription of two volumes of Leonora d'Anglais' journal.

Dora Longfort.