by Jack Murray
‘I have to admit, I wasn’t at my best this morning,’ said Strangerson.
‘Oh, why was that Mr Strangerson?’ asked Esther.
‘Well, at the risk of offending such beautiful and genteel company, I was with some chums last night and we were partaking in some games of chance until quite late. I must confess to imbibing a rather injudicious amount of alcohol. In fact, I think I splashed a bit too much brandy.’ This revelation caused much amusement.
‘I hope you’re feeling better now, Mr Strangerson!’ said Esther.
‘Much better thank you, and how could I not in such lovely company,’ laughed Strangerson in response.
‘How did you get on in your game of chance?’ asked Mary.
‘On the receiving end of a bit of a rinsing, truth be told. I don’t mind as they’re good chums, but not the sort one introduces to one’s mummy. Anyway, lesson learned. The grape and cards mixeth not.’
‘Did I hear that you had some misfortune at the cards, Strangerson?’ asked Cavendish.
Strangerson laughed and confirmed it was indeed so. Cavendish laughed sympathetically and said, ‘I’m glad you’ve learned a lesson. I must admit, in my younger days I learned a similarly expensive lesson. Avoided gambling ever since.’
‘Really Grandpapa?’ said Mary, ‘this is new and very interesting news. I should like to hear more.’ Taking Strangerson by the arm, she steered him over to the side of the room where Cavendish, Emily and Henry were stood.
‘Arthur is this really is a suitable conversation for Henry to hear,’ said Emily rather stiffly.
Henry rolled his eyes in irritation and even Cavendish raised his eyebrows in surprise.
‘I think, Emily, Henry will encounter all sorts of people doing many things that both you and I may not approve off. We do him no favour by protecting him from this knowledge. Would it not be better for him to hear of the sad outcomes resulting from such foolish behaviour?’
‘And expensive,’ interjected Strangerson.
‘…and expensive experiences of our friend here?’ added Cavendish, more in amusement than gravity.
‘Well, I think it all sounds rather exciting, frankly,’ said Mary. ‘I would love to visit some illicit gambling den or hit the tables at Monte Carlo.’
‘Trust you my dear. Ever the rebel,’ smiled Cavendish.
‘Where did you get involved in such illicit activity grandpapa? We want to hear more of this,’ asked Mary mischievously.
‘I was young once, you know,’ he smiled, ‘as difficult as that may be to believe, young lady. There was a lot of spare time in the army. I had many friends who gambled quite seriously. There were more than a few consequences, if I remember, often not to the benefit of those involved. I might’ve occasionally dabbled, but I was never so interested, and certainly had little aptitude.’
Mary smiled up at her grandfather with something akin to a newfound respect, but Emily’s face continued to register disapproval. Cavendish felt it prudent to change the conversational tack to more commonplace topics.
Meanwhile, Kit and Esther were now alone, beside the window. Kit smiled at her.
‘Was that deliberately stage-managed?’
‘Knowing Mary, I would say yes. My apologies. What it lacked in subtlety was more than made up by the best of intentions.’
‘You seem very different.’
‘We are. But I’d add we’re also the best of friends. I couldn’t wish for a better sister than Mary.’
‘I’m glad to hear it. I have a half-brother whom I don’t see very much of, said Kit rather sadly. ‘I’ve missed out, somewhat, on having a sibling rival or friend.’
‘Siblings can certainly be both. I think with Mary and I it was mostly the latter. She’s always been very competitive but not with me. Probably because I was never very bothered trying to compete with her, or anyone else for that matter, at school or the other things we enjoy.’
‘Oh, why not?’ probed Kit.
‘It’s different for women. We don’t have your opportunities. I wouldn’t get Mary started on this subject, by the way,’ said Esther smiling. ‘I always knew that, in the end, I would be expected to marry. Ideally marry well and have a family. Mary has been less accepting of this. I love this about her, but we‘re different in this regard.’
Kit was aware this was something of an understatement. Mary had caused a minor scandal in social circles when she had left Cavendish Hall and volunteered to become a nurse under an assumed name towards the end of the War. This had been done without the knowledge or consent of the family. Somehow, she had managed to convince various medical professionals that she was a nurse and ended up in France working near the front line.
‘Where you aware of what Mary had intended?
‘Yes, but I swore not to tell. She never told me her assumed name. This meant grandpapa was unable to track her. To be honest, I don’t think he tried too hard. Not because he didn’t care, I should say. It was hard for him. Losing grandmama and then papa, really took a lot out of him. He worried so about Uncle Robert. When Mary left, I think he felt more pride. Certainly not anger. He admired her spirit.’
‘But I understand you also worked in London over this period.’
‘Yes, but it was really nothing. I oversaw the work of some nurses in Voluntary Aid Detachments and worked on the buses, would you believe? Hardly like Mary at the front.’
‘When I came back from France, I spent some time in hospital. The work of the VAD nurses was marvellous. I think it wonderful you both volunteered to help. You didn’t have to.’
They were silent for a moment, as if realizing the subject was straying too close to things that neither was ready to talk about.
‘Thank you for coming this Christmas. I’m not sure how it would have been with us, Aunt Emily and Henry,’ said Esther sincerely.
Kit smiled.
‘Yes, I think I understand. Your aunt certainly has a strong personality. I hope young Henry will be allowed to make his own decisions.’
Esther did not reply but she seemed troubled. Kit did not pursue why. He accepted neither sister might not have much time for Henry for reasons he would not be privy to. They turned to less controversial topics. Kit was happy to let her talk about life at Cavendish Hall. He had no problem in playing the role of listener if it meant that he could gaze upon her.
Soon they joined the rest of the party. Cavendish looked over at Curtis who was trying to attract his attention. Nodding he turned to the rest of the party.
‘I believe the carol singing will shortly begin. I gather from Curtis that Reverend Simmons and the villagers are coming down the driveway.’
Everyone turned towards the window and, sure enough, a large party of men, women and children were heading towards Cavendish Hall. The snow had, temporarily at least, stopped falling.
Cavendish led his guests out into the main hallway, which had undergone some transformation whilst they had lunched. Serving tables and some chairs had been set out in the enormous hallway. On the tables were punch bowls full of mulled wine, heaps of mince pies, boxes of chocolates and Christmas crackers.
Under the big Christmas tree were piled all manner of dolls, bottles of sweets, bats, balls, boxes of toy soldiers, toy ships, toy aeroplanes, other charming mechanical toys, and books. Taking charge, Cavendish instructed his guests where they would go.
‘Lady Emily and I will greet everyone at the front. Girls, please can you occupy tables one and two. Kit and Mr. Strangerson if you could be so kind as to go to tables three and four. I imagine, Mr. Strangerson you will have great experience in managing a punch bowl.’ This brought much merriment to all except Lady Emily and Henry. Finally, he added, ‘Perhaps, Henry, you could join Kit.’
Orders given; all went to their positions. Curtis went to the front door, to anticipate the imminent arrival of the villagers. His timing was perfect as within moments of his arrival there was a loud rap on the oak door. With due solemnity, Curtis opened the door and was met by the
Vicar, Tom Simmons. With a nod of his head, Curtis indicated that the carol singers could begin to sing.
It was difficult for Kit to judge how many there were from where he was standing, but he could see all ages. A warm feeling came over him despite the cold. This was one of his favourite Christmas traditions and he looked forward to the rest of the afternoon. He glanced over at the Cavendish girls. In fact, he was looking forward to staying in this company very much.
Chapter 6
God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Saviour
Was born on Christmas Day
The carol singers stood outside the hall, wrapped in large coats, scarves, and hats. The singers were led by a sturdy-looking man, in his late forties. Kit guessed this was Reverend Simmons. His complexion was ruddy with a largish nose that looked like it had been broken at least once. Kit detected what appeared to be a cauliflower ear, but he couldn’t be sure as it was partially obscured by the dark hat. He wondered if he was or had been a rugger player.
The carol singers completed their first carol and then Cavendish stepped forward to greet Simmons.
‘Tom, so glad you were all able to come,’ he said shaking hands. ‘I thought the weather might make it touch and go.’
Simmons laughed, ‘You’re not the only one Lord Cavendish. I think it would take more than a few flakes of snow to stop this lot coming up here though. They’re a hardy lot.’
‘I’ve noticed. Do come inside. I think you and the children deserve warmer surroundings and something for your efforts.’
The carol singers marched in first followed by the villagers and about a dozen children and toddlers. Once they were all in the main hall, Cavendish stood before them to give his traditional Christmas speech to the village.
‘I feel there are a few of you who could probably give this speech you’ve heard it so often.’ There was some laughter at this from the older villagers and carol singers.
‘But no matter, tradition must be followed. I would like to think of this as a tradition that is as welcome to you as it is for us at Cavendish Hall.’
This was greeted by many saying, ‘Hear, hear.’
‘In fact, I hope this tradition of ours will go on for many generations to come.’
This was greeted with applause by all, although Cavendish could not help but observe, with dismay, that both Emily and Henry were not clapping. Neither seemed very enthusiastic at the prospect. Cavendish was not the only person to notice. Kit saw Esther and Mary look at one another grimly. He was surprised, however, when Mary turned, and looked directly at him with narrowed eyes and a half smile. He had been caught out and this made him smile. She didn’t miss much.
Cavendish continued, ‘As you know, we shall serve mulled wine, lemonade and mince pies to you all. Doing so, as usual, will be my granddaughters whom you know very well. Joining Lady Esther and Lady Mary are our guests this Christmas. Lady Emily and my grandson, Henry, are with us again this year. And we are also happy to have Lord Christopher ‘Kit’ Aston and Mr Eric Strangerson.’
The guests were greeted with a round of applause.
‘I should add, I met Lord Aston during the war, where he fought with great valour for his country. Likewise, Mr Strangerson also fought for his country alongside my late son Robert. I hope you will give them a very special Little Gloston welcome.’
There was a murmured assent and further applause.
‘I think it’s high time we served you some food and drink, don’t you think?’ This was greeted with laughter. ‘Then we can enjoy some more beautiful carols to get us into the Christmas spirit. Finally, we can get on with the key event of the day, at least as far as our younger guests are concerned.’ A cheer rose up from the children, which added to the general happiness of the occasion.
After saying a final thank you to Reverend Simmons, the visitors dispersed to different tables to receive their drinks and mince pies. Kit observed with some amusement how many of the men made straight for the tables where the two girls were serving. Meanwhile, the women of the village seemed to be making a beeline in his direction. The children had taken to Strangerson and they were royally entertained. Much laughter ensued as Strangerson played the fool to an adoring gallery.
Once all the visitors had been served, the Cavendish family, apart from Emily and Henry, mingled freely and easily. Strangerson was now captive to the children and was performing magic tricks involving coins appearing from behind ears. This caused squeals of delight from the children who inevitably demanded more.
Kit was joined by Reverend Simmons. The removal of his hat confirmed Kit’s suspicion that he had cauliflower ears. Although this was unusual for a parson, it made Simmons’s appearance more interesting to Kit and he felt an instant liking for this man.
‘Have you played a bit of rugger in your time?’ asked Kit with a smile.
This was greeted by a roar of laughter. However, Simmons shook his head.
‘No, more of a soccer man myself. I assume you’re referring to the appearance of my ears.’
‘Well, yes as a matter of fact.’
‘I understand, Lord Aston. In fact, I wasn’t always a vicar. When I first met Lord Cavendish I was in the army.’
‘Really? Where were you?’
‘South Africa during the Boer War. I was a Sergeant with the Northamptonshires. A few years after I returned from South Africa, I followed a different calling.’
‘Is this how you met Lord Cavendish?’
Simmons smiled at Kit and touched his ears.
‘Ah, well now we’re back to my ears. I was a boxer, and I represented my battalion. Lord Cavendish came to one of the inter-army fights.’
‘I‘ve been to a few fights myself. In fact, I named my dog after one of my favourite fighters,’ said Kit.
‘Really, who would that be?’ inquired Simmons.
‘Have you heard of Sam Langford?’
‘Heard of him? I sparred a few rounds with him when he toured England. It must be nearly ten years ago now,’ said the man of God to an amazed Kit.
‘It was – gosh what was he like?’
‘A lovely man outside the ring but my goodness he could punch like angry a mule.’
Simmons rubbed his jaw as he relived the memory. Just as they were talking, Kit heard a familiar yelp and into the hall raced Sam, followed by Miller. This caused more amusement as they watched the spectacle of a very unhappy Miller trying to catch the tiny Jack Russell. Eventually he gave up but was rewarded with a sympathetic round of applause. Miller stopped, grinned to the audience, and made an exaggerated theatrical bow. Afterwards he immediately went over to Kit to apologise.
‘Sorry sir, I couldn’t keep him cooped up any longer.’
‘Don’t worry Harry. No harm done. Anyway, he seems to be making friends.’ They both glanced over at Sam being fed snacks by Esther and Mary. ‘Can’t fault his taste.’ added Kit. Miller noted the comment but made no reply. Kit returned his gaze to Miller and said, ‘Help yourself, Harry. By the way this is Reverend Simmons.’
‘Hello Harry,’ said Reverend Simmons amiably.
Miller and Simmons exchanged handshakes. Kit caught Miller glancing at the Reverend’s ears.
‘He went a few rounds with the Boston Tar Baby,’ explained Kit.
Miller and Simmons laughed and the three chatted happily for a few more minutes on the noble art. They were soon were joined by Cavendish.
‘Tom, I’m glad you’ve met Kit. I should add, Kit, that Tom will be joining us for Christmas lunch tomorrow.’
Cavendish glanced at Miller. Kit once again felt something had troubled him about Miller. He was very curious but decided that rather than ask Cavendish directly it would be more prudent to wait and see if he said anything.
‘Yes, we have a mutual interest in the pugilistic science,’ said Kit.
This made Cavendish chuckle. Then he went on to relate their first meeting in South Africa. After a pleasa
nt few minutes Cavendish asked, ‘Tom, do you think your carol singers are ready to perform?’
‘I should say they are,’ replied Simmons. Taking his leave from the group, he walked to the centre of the hall and clapped his hands to gain everyone’s attention. A few minutes later the carol singers began again. This time accompanied by a few guest singers. Strangerson proved to have a very fine baritone but Kit found himself listening closely to the beautiful harmonies coming from the two Cavendish girls.
The end of the first carol, ‘Oh Come All Ye Faithful’, was accompanied by an additional singer with a distinctly canine timbre. Sam’s howling, of course, caused great laughter in the hall. With smiles all around, Kit went over to Mary and collected the little dog to bring him downstairs lest he should derail the rest of the singing.
He returned a few minutes later in time to join the singers in ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing!’ The carols continued for another twenty minutes before Reverend Simmons brought an end to proceedings. The inhabitants of Cavendish Hall and the guests gave loud acclaim to the efforts of the choir. Soon the villagers were trooping out of the hall just as daylight was beginning to turn to grey and purple. Some flakes of snow were beginning to meander lazily through the air. Replacing his hat, Simmons bid goodbye to Cavendish.
‘Merry Christmas, Lord Cavendish.’
‘And to you. We shall see you tomorrow at the service. You’ll return with us to the Hall for lunch as usual, of course.’
‘Thank you again for your invitation.’
Turning he joined the villagers as they marched up the long driveway towards the nearby village of Little Gloston. Cavendish stayed to watch them until they were out of sight and then returned to the Hall where Curtis and the other staff were busy clearing up. Rather than getting in the way, he went into the library.
Kit, Strangerson and the two Cavendish girls soon joined Lord Cavendish in the library. Lady Emily went to her room deciding that she was fatigued from a busy morning. Eventually, after some deliberation, Henry decided to join his cousins in the library also.
