Fragile Blossoms

by Dodie Hamilton

  ‘Fun?’ Callie had scowled. ‘When I scraped my knees coming over that wall at night fun was the last thing on my mind. I imagine your villains feel the same.’

  As yet nothing more has been said about Callie’s feud with the Newman sisters. Greenfields is a cold house of Georgian specification with large rooms and lofty ceilings. It has been made comfortable by the good taste and the many dollars of the Greville Masson family and yet is still cold.

  It was during the last visit Julia saw the silhouette on the wall. ‘Is that you, Callie?’ she’d said of a young girl in profile.

  ‘Yes, that’s me before the rot set in.’

  ‘I’ve seen one like this.’

  ‘You have! Where? Oh don’t tell me, the cottage!’

  ‘Yes along with three others, the sisters presumably and a naval gentleman.’

  ‘A naval gentleman?’

  ‘Yes, an officer.’ That was all Julia said for after that there was no talking about anything. Callie pleaded a headache and asked to be excused.

  The Central Marquee is where the more illustrious painters show their work. John’s work gathers a crowd, a full length portrait of an effete young man in an overcoat drawing particular attention. Julia stood among the crowd marvelling and thinking that when it was painted Freddie was surely the model. In that thought she was not alone.

  ‘It’s absolutely him don’t you think?’

  Julia turned and Evie smiled, the pearls at her throat mirroring her eyes. ‘Hello, Ju-ju. You look well. Indeed I’ve never seen you better. Why is that d’you suppose?’ She reached out to touch the roses at Julia’s breast. ‘You are as soft and dewy as these roses. Could it be you’re in love?’

  This is Evie! Onslaught! Two minutes of her magnetic presence and the brain is robbed of rational thought.

  ‘Have you seen Freddie?’ Evie fluttered the programme. ‘Last seen he was looking for you. We saw Matty in the picture-tent with your neighbour, Danny Masson’s mother, the mining heiress. Terrific hat! I must enquire of her milliner. They were laughing and enjoying one another as much as the show.’

  ‘Yes they do get on. How are you Evie?’

  ‘I am well. I am here with friends from Paris. May I introduce Madame Eloise Dupres and Monsieurs Charles Gambrel and Paul Chilcot?’ She stood smiling and nodding. ‘This is a bit of a thing, isn’t it? One is shoved from pillar to post. I don’t plan on staying, much too crowded, but I must await HRH and his blessing on my efforts. They are here, Ju-ju, both Fauns currently gambolling down the end of this monstrous tent.’

  ‘I did hear. Congratulations.’

  ‘Thank you. I confess to being gratified and alarmed by the showing. It’s not every day one gets to bare one’s soul before a future King. Thank goodness I had you for muse. Royal approval or not your face will carry us through. I was hoping you’d sit again but understand you don’t these days.’

  ‘Not of late.’

  ‘I suppose you’re taken with your plan for a coffee shop. Such a clever idea, Sandringham so close and all that bracing Norfolk air! And the Lansdowne place at your heel and access to Mrs Massons’ acquaintance!’

  ‘Mrs Masson is a thoughtful neighbour.’

  ‘I’m sure she is. I imagine she’s Matty’s bonne aimée now and the other lady, Nanette Roberts, dropped. It happens. When it comes to changes in affection children can be cruel, and sad to say not only children. We are presently staying with Nan, Freddie and me.’

  ‘At the Lord Nelson Inn?’

  ‘Yes and comfortable it is! You said she was a person in her own right, as indeed is our host, the charming and surprisingly enterprising Mr Roberts.’

  ‘Albert is a good man.’

  ‘I’m sure he is but I was referring to the younger Mr Roberts.’

  ‘Luke?’

  ‘Yes, Luke! Mathew, Mark, Luke and John, bless the bed that I lay on!’ Evelyn was gleeful. ‘A ravishingly handsome man, I like him very much. Now when reading my lurid novels and the hero likened to a stallion, I shall know to whom they refer. I am currently working my stays off pressing him to sit for me in London as is Freddie, the naughty boy. So far nothing doing but I shall persist. We like the Nelson, comfy beds and as Freddie will tell you an excellent cellar. We’re here another night and might pop along tomorrow to say hello.’

  ‘Oh do! We would be delighted to see you.’

  ‘Good then we shall.’ Evie gazed about her. ‘I see Johnny here in glowing colours. We don’t see much of him these days or Danny Masson, who as news correspondent and follower of wars can’t be tied down. Poor John, when not being paid huge fees for immortalising ugly people he’s fighting off the dogs. The Academy finally recognising his worth and the lesser talent gnaw at his heels. It is always the same. People can’t bear a good man to succeed. ’

  Julia nodded. ‘Doctor Adelmann said something along those lines.’

  ’Did he? You see much of Stefan, do you?’

  ‘He visits Matty and takes care of his ills.’

  ‘Stefan is a good man with heavy professional responsibilities, and carrying, as no doubt you have learned, a heavy personal burden. If anyone knows about rivalry it is he. Being of the Germanic line, and this silly Boer War rampaging, he puts up with all sorts of nonsense. He’s another who rarely visits though in his case, Appointment to the Royal Household, his tardiness is forgiven. You though, Julianna, what is your excuse?’

  Julia could only stare.

  ‘Are you another setting the world on fire or are you run of the mill like the rest of us? Well we must away! If you plan a Gala opening of your little bijou cafe I hope you’ll invite us. We’ll come and we’ll bring friends. Talking of friends we have an interesting event soon, one Madame Leonora.’

  ‘Madame Leonora?’

  ‘Oh you must have heard of her? The Medium who locks herself in boxes and conjures spirits! She’s agreed to a private sitting. We’re all terribly excited.’ Evie closed the programme. ‘Anyway, better move along. HRH is at the door. Did you see them yet, the Fauns?’

  ‘Not yet.’

  ‘Do try. Even though you no longer care for me I care for you and would like you to see yourself glorified. And come to the séance! I’ve people begging an invite but I’ve said only the exclusive few.’ The air filled with perfume she kissed Julianna. ‘And who could be more exclusive than you.’

  Julia reeled from the encounter. She was about to leave the Marquee for the cinematic show when there was movement at the door and a whisper. ‘He is here!’ Lined were formed inside the enclosure the cream of British aristocracy present and sweating. So many perspiring faces the air fairly steamed.

  They came through the main entrance a dozen or so people clustered about one. John’s tall figure was evident the rest were hats and heads, glorious hats and heads used to carrying coronets. There was brief conversation and then the party started along the paintings. Evie was among them. In her aquamarine lace gown and feathered toque she was a work of art more affecting than anything on the easels. She chatted with the Prince. That they’d met before was apparent by the ease with which they talked, he smiling and Evie ducking her head as though whispering secrets.

  Julia thought of what Eve had said about old toys cast away for new. It wasn’t her choice to lose Nan as a friend. Last week Matty asked to see the Tabby Cat. They took the trap Julia waiting while he knocked on the door. The same maid turned him away with a kiss. ‘The mistress has a cold. She wouldn’t want to pass it on.’ Julia on return took up her pen. ‘It seems I am to be shunned by the people of this village. Why I don’t know since I’ve done none harm only tried offering friendship. Be that is as it may I give you leave, Nanette Roberts, to think what you like of me but you will not deny a little boy who did nothing but love you and...and ...!’

  She tore the letter to shreds. What’s the good of fussing? It changes nothing.

>   The Royal party was reaching the end of the tour. People shuffled and whispered but with no thought of leaving. Then Julia saw Daniel Masson edging his way through the crowd.

  ‘Talk about a skirmish! I had to use my elbows or wouldn’t have got through.’

  ‘You took your life into your hands attempting it.’

  ‘It sure felt so.’ Face flushed he mopped his brow. ‘It’s kinda warm. I’d love to shuck my jacket but would likely be marched to the Tower and I’d deserve it. Poor fellow trussed like a turkey if he can bear it then so can I.’

  They stood watching the royal progress.

  ‘John loathes being thrust into the common eye,’ said Daniel. ‘Thankfully that will never happen to me.’

  ‘Why won’t it?’

  ‘Because I have neither the talent nor the name.’

  ‘You are a Greville Warwick. Isn’t that name enough.’

  ‘I am a Greville Masson which is of the family but the Colonial side and so I’ve no particular name and no particular talent. I have enthusiasm but that’s all. People like John Sargent, and of course Lady Evelyn, are top notch.’

  ‘You admire her work?’

  ‘I do. I may not be crazy about the person but I admire her work.’

  ‘Evie must be good to show at the National Gallery.’

  ‘I’m not sure that is the parameter. Art is a cutthroat business. I’m sure Lady Evelyn would bear me out on this. That she shows work in the Gallery is due to her name. That John is accepted as Associate is due to fees he can claim.’

  ‘What about talent?’

  He shrugged. ‘Talent matters but money matters more. Recognition in the West is not about work so much as popularity.’

  ‘You are a cynic.’

  ‘I am a realist. It’s why I don’t get on with politics. Sooner than suffer red tape I’m likely to tip the whole caboodle into the Pacific Ocean.’

  ‘I think we might’ve veered away from the subject of art.’

  ‘I think you’re right.’ Rueful he smiled. ‘I guess I’m still smarting about South Africa and what’s happening there. Did you know they have prison camps in the Transvaal where women and children are holed up like cattle?’

  ‘I didn’t.’

  ‘No and why would you. Sorry, Julianna. This is so wrong of me. To bemoan the unfairness of life is not why I risked life and limb to get to you.’

  ‘It isn’t?’

  ‘Not at all! I wanted to ask if you’d accompany me to the theatre one night.’

  ‘Thank you I’d like that.’

  ‘You would? Wonderful! What about the three of us, you, Matty, and me on a picnic tomorrow... or is that me being pushy?’

  ‘It is you being pushy even so I’d like to do that. Could we make it one day next week, say Tuesday after Matty’s music lesson?’

  ‘Tuesday? Yes ma’m!’ Daniel’s eyes sparkled. ‘We’ll go on the Fens. I’m handy with a skiff and your boy seemed to suggest he’d get a kick out of that.’

  ‘You’ve spoken to him?’

  ‘Uh-huh. I saw him in the cinema tent and thought to get him on side.’

  ‘Wise move.’

  ‘I’m happy you think so. Perhaps we might discuss details this evening.’

  ‘You’re staying with your mother?’

  ‘I am. And on that subject I should say I am at mother’s place because of you. I was at the Carrington place because of you. I was at Greenfields yesterday because of you. And I’m here today because of you.’

  ‘Because of me?’

  ‘Yes, Julianna, but I guess that will wait.’ Daniel stepped aside. ‘Right now it seems you’re wanted elsewhere.’

  ‘Madam?’ A man stood at Julia’s elbow. ‘Mrs Julianna Dryden?’

  ‘Yes?’

  ‘His Royal Highness asks if you would care to join his party.’

  ‘I beg your pardon?’

  ‘His Highness, the Prince of Wales, asks if you would care to join him and Lady Baines Carrington and Mr Singer Sargent in a tour of the Gallery.’

  The room was hushed, everyone watching.

  ‘Thank you. I should be delighted. I beg you excuse me, Daniel.’

  A path opening before them the equerry walked on. Julia couldn’t be sure who made the introduction. She remembers being glad her gloves were clean and that despite being nervous she managed to curtsey without falling over.

  The Prince asked if she was enjoying the exhibition and had she a favourite artist. She said she liked Ruebens and that her father had favoured Stubbs.

  The Prince nodded. ‘We have a few of that gentleman about the house. His horses are good but Van Dyck’s better.’ He smiled. ‘If you’re ever in Town and care to see the work I’d be pleased to take you on a tour of the Gallery.’

  The party moved on. A woman in the group she recognised as Mrs George Keppel, her picture often in newspapers, smiled at Julia and commented on her gown. ‘What beautiful lace! One doesn’t see good lace anymore.’

  Julia was tempted to mention the cut down sleeves but thought better of it.

  The party halted before a painting of a dog. ‘Here’s a jolly little chap,’ said the Prince. ‘He reminds me of Caesar. Do you have a dog, Mrs Dryden?’

  ‘My son has a dog.’

  ‘Is it thoroughbred?’

  ‘I think not, Sir, more a mixture.’

  ‘And does the mixture have a name?’

  ‘Yes.’ Julia smiled. ‘He’s called Kaiser.’

  ‘Kaiser? You named him Kaiser! ‘

  ‘Not named, Sir. He came already crowned.’

  ‘You inherited a king.’ He laughed and the group laughed with him. ‘And is he a good king, is he obedient to the cause and polite with postmen? ’

  ‘He is good and he is brave.’

  ‘Excellent! Let the fellow be brave but let him also know his place. One can’t have kings running amuck. History proves they are like to lose their heads.’

  He smiled, stroked his moustache, and suddenly Julia was looking at Stefan and everything was so much easier. ‘Perhaps one day,’ he said, ‘I might meet your Kaiser and give him hints on behaviour fitting a king.’

  ‘I’m sure he would benefit.’

  ‘And your little boy, what is his name?’

  ‘Matthew.’

  ‘A good name but not a name common to an English king, which in this restless day and age, Mrs Dryden, is not such a bad thing.’

  They progressed to the alcove where the Fauns were set on easels. The Prince turned to Evie. ‘Well here we are last with your work, Lady Carrington. I know this.’ He tapped the frame of Faun Surprised with his cane. ‘My brother Arthur saw it at the National and wanted it for himself. Is that not so?’

  Evelyn nodded. ‘It is, Sir.’

  ‘And if memory serves me right you wouldn’t sell.’

  ‘I believe I held true.’

  ‘So you did despite his entreaties.’ He adjusted his monocle.’ And this is brother to the Faun or rather one should say sister.’ The Prince took his time gazing at the painting. Then he stepped back and closed his monocle. ‘My congratulations on this, Lady Carrington, and also I think my condolences.’

  ‘Condolences?’

  ‘Yes, I fear you’ve placed yourself, and me, in jeopardy.’

  ‘How so, Sir?’

  ‘Quite simple.’ The Prince smiled at Julia. ‘My brother wanted only the one likeness. Now having seen the paintings, and met the muse, I want both.’

  Daniel was waiting. ‘All present and correct?’

  She took his arm. ‘I am a little bit thrown.’

  ‘You looked quite at ease.’

  ‘Looks can be deceiving.’

  ‘May I ask what you talked about?’

  ‘Dogs.’

  ‘Dogs!’

&
nbsp; ‘Yes, his Caesar and Matty’s Kaiser.’

  ‘A Prince talking of Kings! How very droll.’

  Julia laughed. ‘It was.’

  ‘You looked as if you made a connection. He seemed quite bowled over.’

  ‘I don’t know about that. Oh here’s Freddie!’

  Freddie was outside the Marquee, Callie and Matty with him.

  ‘There you are Ju-ju!’ Matty and Freddie were licking lollipops. ‘We thought you’d run off with the gypsies.’ He gestured to the Marquee. ‘Is my sister in with the Parisian people?’

  ‘Actually she is with the Prince of Wales.’

  ‘Oh yes she said she might. I’d forgotten about him.’

  ‘Did you enjoy the cinema, Matty?’

  Matty grinned and licked the lollipop. ‘It was good.’

  ‘What about you Callie?’

  Callie scowled. ‘I did not enjoy it. So many people breathing one another’s air I’m sure I shall get a cold. So Daniel, I’m ready to go if you are.’

  ‘You can’t go yet!’ said Freddie. ‘You haven’t seen my stuff and I’ve been hanging on to show you.’ He threw the lollipop away. ‘Lord! That was a mistake! My hands are all gooey.’

  Daniel offered a handkerchief.

  ‘Thanks, I have my own.’ From a warm day it was suddenly cool, Daniel silent, Callie displeased, and Freddie’s blue eyes glittering over white linen

  An uneasy group they trailed to another Marquee where a crowd had gathered about one painting.

  ‘Oh Freddie!’ When John Sargent said he had talent he understated the case. There is talent, a glittering, crashing talent that stuns the onlooker into silence.

  ‘I call it the White Lady. What do you think?’

  ‘I don’t know what to think other than it is beautiful.’

  Julia was looking at a creature of snow and mist. White hair, white face, lips and eyes, all white and yet so absolutely her it was wonderful and hypnotic and she stared and so did crowd stared, all silent.

  ‘How did you do it? How did you achieve all that with one colour?’

  ‘Is that all you see, Ju-ju?’ he said, ‘one colour?’