Followed by '100 percent.’
One should be 100 percent responsible for how one acts and appears in public, or when one is alone with another. Intelligent people absorb the lessons that are inherent ... they also learn from experiences placed before them, and be able to follow with ease the many paths set ahead. Be strong; release oneself from the grip of feeling that someone is against us. Believe in the saying.
People are never really against us ... they are actually just for out themselves.
by Thomas Leathan-drum
Chapter 1
The end of one chapter, and the start of another.
The fierce roaring fire — with its red hot flames .... whipped through the old nineteen century building (once the families paper manufacturing mill,) without a thought to the lives of those who owned it, or to the lives of those who worked it ... the flames tore the hearts apart of both. Without relief the fire engulfed all that stood in its way ... destroying many generations of ______, and reducing lineage of wealth and public standings from those living and from future rewards. The titles of Lord and Lady (now only in name,) for fortune and standings, are only equal to any other person.
So this is how we find (in the twentieth century,) Anthony Whisleworth and his wife Isabel - travelling to Clamton-house ... accompanied by ______ .
Chapter 2
Taking the train to Clamton-house.
Not a finer morning — could all the wishes combined, be better granted to those aboard the North bound train. What a fine summers day, was just one thought ... belonging to mr. Anthony Whisleworth; and another ... to be at Clamton-house before tea. Both these thoughts were also in the mind of his wife Isabel ... and if known, in the minds of all those ______ .
Soon after the (all aboard cry,) of young Johnny Sandton; the large steam locomotive — put its back into its work. Six large black metal wheels (and several smaller wheels,) turned; six large puffs of white steam (and many smaller puffs of white steam,) shot out (from,) and between the ______ ; a loud whistle pierced the thoughts of all — encouraging copy-cat sounds from those boyish boys. Little hands reached to open windows — most compelled to resist from doing so by protective mothers. For the love of common sense, fills the head of Isabel Whisleworth, and more common sense ... I would wish of my sister, another thought.
'Hooray! Hooray!' The boys of the Waterfall scout group where heard to cry out. It's hoped those boys will not be over boyish, are the wishful thoughts belong to Anthony Whisleworth.
Reader. There is young Sally - like a small mole creature, throwing its toys from one end of its burrow to the other ... and making her way (crawling on all fours,) the young girl — her small toes protruding from her socks. Ah! At last the child's mothers collects the now screaming child; with her long (painted,) nails — like paws scoops her off-spring from the floor.
Anthony's mind is lost in concentration-focusing itself upon the small hands and legs ... of the Ants, the Beetles, the Bees, the Frogs, the Birds, and all the different plants growing between the floor boards. Thinking to himself - Oh! To be one of those free Gods creatures, with no other need than to eat, and be somewhere different. From the window he (Anthony,) can add - Foxes, and Otters, and Ferrets, and Squirrels, and in the rivers ... the Tout, the water-Rats and the Badgers. The list is endless, his thoughts inform him.
'Boys.' Anthony calls towards the Waterfall scout group. 'There was no end to the things to see and talk about — if only you care to look.'
Clickety-clack clickety-clack Jacks a little brat. Repeated more than twice — more than four times; in fact ... continuously — the boys of the Waterfall scout group sung ... until put a stop to by mr. _______ . Thank goodness for the peace and quite, said Anthony to himself. Followed by '100 percent.
Dear reader. Picture yourself aboard that train dressed (?) for that's the century we are in; living in and enjoying the best of Victorian times — of wealth and privilege — of travel to the sea sides and the fun parks. With picnic baskets of all types and sizes — each complete with the trimmings for a merry lunch — sweets and iced cakes — cold drinks and ice blocks — grandma's best fruit cake and auntie May's sultan slice — plus wrapped in damp cloth ... are many sandwiches — cucumber and lettuce (on white bread,) fish paste — others of sliced ham (covered with a strong pungent smell (possibly radish or onion,) there are many cut in triangles, others in triangular shapes with the crusts removed (favourite of the very young and the very old.)
First class passengers feeding from railway crockery (with logos of company locomotives,) together with babies feeding from the breasts of mothers ... to youth feeding from the pockets of fathers — and all those between, and those of independent means.
Reader. So this is how is was for a good number of years (until the last.) Isabel, Anthony and sister Rose ... along with granddad William, and his brother, and the brother of Anthony - Herbert, and his wife, and his seven children ... Peter, Colin, Robert, William (junior,) Rebecca, Patricia and first born Victoria. Of cause auntie May, and cousin ______. Asleep (just ten minutes into the journey is uncle Vernon (in his 50th year ... his head bobbing against the shoulder of his second wife, in her 20th year.) We find second cousins to others playing hide and seek between the seats ... running to-and-tho, and over and under seats of the second class carriages.
Anthony closed his eyes, pretending to sleep — yet only half closed as he thoughts were full of uplifting things (mostly happy things.) The train whirled him through mountain passes and golden plains — over bridges of steel and concrete, and bridges of iron and timber (maybe he was now sleepier than before,) yet not quite dreaming, or dead or alive — but beginning to think in a new way and he thought long and hard, steadily and deeply about the lost years ... never again to recover.
Chapter 3
Clamton-house.
The picture-rest, seaside building; known as Clamton-house ... once owned by Lord Clamton (senior) — now converted — as many of the old family homes of the period have ... into holiday accommodation for the wealthy middle classes.
It is here, Lady Isabel Whisleworth has visited every summer since the reign of Queen Victoria ... with the hope of meeting Edward —the Prince of Wales.
Today is the first visit since the death of her husband; Anthony. Unattached, she is now free to place herself in the hands (so to speck,) that is to say ... Prince; I'm at your disposal. Free to partake in clay pigeon shooting, or a round of golf; maybe a glass of sherry. Who knows what may come of such a request ... could she be a prince's conquest.
Lady Isabel Whisleworth has on many occasions expressed such desires. She was sure Anthony would not mind. Sadly however ... the Prince of Wales (to date,) has shown little interest.
'Am I still a fine shape of a women?' looking into her compact mirror, she asks her sister (her companion,) Rose Longhorn. 'You are my dear,' is the reply Rose always gives when asked this very question. Followed by '100 percent.'
Yes, you're correct, Lady Isabel thought to herself ... I am 100 percent. A fine looking woman, she knew ... for Anthony was fond of expressing this observation, and did so in the company of many.
Lady Isabel (as we will know her.) Woke. I must be ready to meet the Prince ... she told herself; he'll be here at 11. What is the time?The question fell upon herself to answer. What shall I wear? She knew very well, the answer. It will be the _____ dress, purchased for such this occasion.
Ah! Dear reader. Yes. Lady Isabel woke. The bed is so soft and warm, the cotton sheets hold her captive. What is the time? Is her first thought. The bedside clock provides the answer. Her second, why do nightdress ride up ... exposing thighs and buttocks?
Wait; dear reader, there is more. Lady Isabel is wake. Fresh from a pleasing and restful sleep — complete with many happy ending dreams. The best nights sleep I've had in years. Is what she tells herself. 'Anthony my dear, it is time to rise'. There is a warm edge to her command. Not so the second. 'Anthony, wake up man'. With greater strength than an act of love calls for ... her arm reaches out.
Yes, reader; tears full her eyes and run freely across the pedestals of high check bones ... catching the light from the draw curtains (who opened the curtain? Was a thought that came,) down the tears came, gathering speed, becoming a torrent ... pouring into her open mouth, turning her throat into a stream of flowing liquid.
STOP I hear you say.
Reader. Lady Isabel is out of her bed and has regained her composure; realised her mistake. Silly old me. Reprimanding herself. My Anthony is not here. Now, no more of this silly stuff — pull yourself together.
Let us continue. As with other years the Prince will arrive at 11; he will retire to his room to freshen on up — then to the dinning room for a spot of lunch. If all goes to plan that will be approximately 12.15. That will provide ample time for those who seek an audience to be seated. Lady Isabel Whisleworth will be one of the first. You can be sure of that; are her thoughts.
Dressed in that dress, purchased for this occasion ... Lady Isabel makes her way to the dining room.
Reader. We shall skip the lengthy procedure of turning oneself out of a soft and warm bed — having to tear ones body free from those clinging cotton sheets, discarding a nightdresses (one that continuously rides up ... without the help of a deceased husband,) just to mention a call for help upon Rose to tie the many bows to her blouse. Shall we mention (the war paint,) to be applied to the face?
No; let us not. Yet it would be-a-miss, if not -
I'm sure the lady wore something that could be described ... however as a man, I would not do it justice. But say - It was a very purple dress, with a black silk mantle, sporting a very red fringe ... and yes; topped off with a black bonnet. There were purple velvet flowers — place neatly as if they were planted in an old English cottage garden. (Reader, I must confess. I stole from another .... changing a word here and there.)
Only the kitchen maid Molly, was up as early. 'Morning mrs. Whisleworth,' was said, and then the kitchen maid had gone.
The dining-room this morning looked different; were there new curtains, maybe new lights ... were there different table cloths? She asked herself. Lady Isabel could not decide ... the carpet, she was convinced was the same. What could it be? Before she could stop herself. 'Anthony,' she said. 'What can I see that is different?' Had Anthony been there; he would place her mind at rest ... by providing the answers to her enquires. The curtains he would tell her are new. Yes, the lampshades have been replaced, and the table cloths have changed. Then Isabel would have been satisfied.
Randolph Blackbridge glided (like a dancer on ice,) into the dining room. Tall and thin ... quite handsome, Lady Isabel thought. He sank into the chair at her table. 'Morning,' they both said at once — and laughed together. Isabel (yes reader, we are now just calling her Isabel,) her eyes ... she could not control her wonder eyes. Luckily her hands were otherwise occupied.
'Have you stayed here before? Asks Randolph.
'Do you always come alone? Asks Randolph.
'The building has great views.' Was this a question or a statement? Thought Isabel.
As if reading her thoughts; 'where is your husband?’
'Do you have friends here that bring you to this place today?' Asks Randolph.
'Have you ordered breakfast? Asks Randolph.
'Come, come, Sir. Isabel breaks into his examination. All these questions requiring answers — even before I know your name.
'My name is Randolph Blackbridge, I am writing an article on the many holiday activities of ____.
'This is my first visit to this establishment. Do you visit here often?' Asks Randolph.
'You have asked that question already,' replies Isabel. To date I have had no opportunity to answer ... Isabel was saying to herself — just as Rose arrives.
Reader. Rose is (as we are aware,) Isabel’s sister — younger by eighteen months; spinster. It is she who nursed dear old mother before her passing, and then their father ... before moving from the family home some years before — never returning ... nor has he been missed.
May I introduce my sister Rose ... was the thought gathering pace within Isabel's head, (ready to provide the information) but stopped from doing so by Randolph's question. Damn; the man is full of questions. Her head ached from all this continuous thinking.
Ah! The question. 'And who is this lovely person.' Randolph was on his feet; helping Rose to a seat. 'This is my sister Rose.' That's settled then, she said to herself. 'Lets order breakfast.' This Isabel said out loud.
Dear reader. Are you interested as to what breakfast consisted of? For those you are ... Randolph ordered three slices of black pudding, two sausages, mushrooms on toast, and black coffee. Rose ordered two eggs on a slice of brown bread. Isabel settled for a plate of fruit, and a pot of tea. Conversation covered many topics, being led manly by the inquisitive journalist.
Isabel's thoughts interrupted many of the questions — those of the forth coming arrival of the Prince. Rose on the other hand showed a great deal of interest in both the questions and in the tall and thin ... quite handsome (very handsome mr. Randolph,) and in fact had moved quite close — often placing a hand on his. What lovely blue eyes he has, such strong facial features (especially his square jaw,) a pleasantly shaped nose ... her thoughts continued a more interesting man I have not meet.
It was decided between Randolph and Rose, that tomorrow, after lunch, together, they would discover the secrets of _______ . Isabel was invited, but declined the invitation.
Walking the streets this year without her Anthony, she thought would be to unkind; plus she wanted to spend time with the Prince — maybe they would take in the sites together after lunch, or after a game of bridge, or more along the lines of some romantic candlelit setting — where the riding up of under undergarments would be of a welcome and pleasing encounter.
Chapter 4
Hoo ra! Hoo ra! - For the Prince.
The Prince did not arrive that morning at eleven, nor did he the next day, nor the next — in fact he did not arrive until the following ______, and then the time was two thirty, when his carriage pulled up outside Clamton-house. Unfortunately, on that day and at that time ... Lady Isabel had taken up (reluctantly,) the opportunity to walk out with the retired General Albert Darling - of the 72nd on foot Regiment. The General of some age and disability (due to a sniper’s bullet to his left leg,) caused the walk to encroach well into the afternoon. On their return, Lady Isabel was informed, introductions to the Prince had been carried out, and that he had taken to his bed for an afternoon sleep. However he will be taking his dinner at 8. Unfortunately he will eat in his room. We will see about that. Isabel told herself. To add to her discomfort, sister Rose had been introduced to the Prince and a photograph to celebrate the event was taken … in six weeks (those photographs) would be in all the gossip magazines.
So it was that the luxury Daimler limousine — with its royal warrant — arrived outside Clamton-house. Drawing the attention of all, many stopping to witness his royal highness presence.
Hoo ra! Hoo ra! The crowd shouted; women _____ ; men raised their hats … children waved.
Let me explain dear reader. The bedrooms of both Lady Isabel and her sister are on the first floor (joined by an internal door,) both having the best of views over the street and the foreshore.
Plus dear reader. Lady Isabel's bedroom has a private bathing area; and it is here we find Rose and mr. Blackbridge (having returned from their adventures,) partaking in a warm bath.
So it is we learn that from the bath they hear the hoo ra! — from the crowd outside. As excited children do (and without thought,) they dash to the window.
Reader, if you dare. Put yourself there in that room, take in the view (not at this stage — the Prince,) but that of naked flesh ... a back arched to allow a view over the window sill (a forehead resting on the glass,) two fine breasts hanging free — swinging slightly to and fro ... fine cheeks (a little pink in colour,) pinched together, holding them firm. Ah! Come back my love. Randolph's head screams. Don't leave me in this state of readiness. His manhood showing signs of depression.
To late dear reader.
'I can see the Prince.' Rose's excited voice proclaims.
'Come away he will see you.' Her lover's warm breath tickling her neck.
'NO.' Breathlessly she replies ... as the tall and thin (very handsome,) naked torso of her lover — she feels pressing itself ... every-so-gentle against her bare skin.
'Oh!' Rose turns (and on tip toes,) seeks out the waiting moist thin lips ... both joining with the sweet sound of ______. 'Oh! Octopus like hands grovel as beggars — leaving nothing to chance, ... twenty-fingers, exploring the contours of shapes and forms ... the consequence of God's creation.
Reader. But had Rose waited (just one more second,) her eyes would witness the driver (of such a fine vehicle) removed himself from behind the steering wheel, and with one movement open the passengers door. There she would see the Prince (wearing a stripped dress suit) step onto the pavement (acknowledge the well wishers,) turn and take the hand of the young lady accompanying him. The hand (she would see,) will be that of Lilie Langtry — Lilie Langtry a young beauty, with great charm — an actress, artist (in her own right,) with a widespread public following — specially noblemen and those with wealth … and yes; the Prince of Wales. Oh! where is Isabel? She is missing the Prince's arrival. How vexed she will be. These thoughts did not linger long in her head.
'Randolph; would you consider me suitable for a Prince?' Rose (now free from the embrace.)
'Am I a fine shape of a women?' Running her hands down her naked body.
'My good looks of youth have not deserted me ... have they? Randolph. Telling herself. I’m still beautiful: my skin smooth, unwrinkled, no lines around my neck or around my eyes to be seen. My features small and delicate, my nose, chin, cheeks, lips, are all flawless, my long blonde hair is fluffed and shiny.
Again reader, she asks. ’My good looks of youth have not deserted me ... have they? Randolph.
'You are my dear, the most beautiful women I have ever meet ... your features capture your younger days. I have loved you from the first day I saw you.' Is his reply.
'You only meet me yesterday.' (They laugh together.)
'Do you really love me?' Rose asks.
'Yes.' Randolph always gives this answer when asked this very question. Followed by ‘100 percent.’
Chapter 5
Lady Isabel Whisleworth.
The challenge has been set. You can be sure of that. The voice within Isabel's head was confident. She has escaped the ear of the General (for now.) This bath water is cold. Her fingers tell her. And there is a dirt line. I know all about dirt lines ...don't I Anthony. 'Yes you do my dear. Would be his reply, Knowing what was to follow. 'Just look at the state of that towel. 'Did you not use soap?' You sound just like my mother. This would have been the thoughts of Anthony.
The tap on the door brought Isabel flying out of her self inflicted depression ... the figure there stood — was no other than General Albert Darling.
Remember dear reader. General Albert Darling of the 72nd on foot Regiment. Screaming. 'I've been shot, I've been shot.' Pointing to his left leg. Isabel could make out a scare — below the knee, blood was pouring (freely, and unconstrained.)
'What has happen?' Asks Isabel.
'I've been shot; taken one to my leg ... help me sergeant.' The General is in cuckoo land. Isabel is telling herself.
'You must leave General, I'm expecting the Prince anytime now.' Then another tap at the door. Oh! Tenterhooks and pick-up-sticks
said to herself.
'That's the Prince now.' Said to the General - unfortunately; striped and lowing his half naked war torn body into the bath.
'_______ this water is cold.' Spoken like a seasoned trench soldier.
'Get under that water — you damn old man, and shut up.' Spoken like a down trodden whore.
Readers. Those of us who know their history; are aware that Edward is a womaniser, a lover of life ... he enjoys the privileges of wealth and royalty, he enjoys his food and alcohol to extreme.
Sadly (for Isabel,) Edward is not the caller to her door. This caller (dear reader, is one you were not introduce to at the time,) yet was available to be made known to you — if not for the grandstanding of our Randolph Blackbridge.
Isabel left General Darling to his cold bath; to make her way to the door ... stopping at the mirror to pamper a hair or two. Licking a finger she straighten an eyebrow, harnessed a loose button, and tied a stray ribbon. I'll knot the socks of the Prince - if it's the last thing I do. Are her thoughts at this very moment. Slowly now, make him wait, let him squirm ... the longer he waits the more excited he will be. These thoughts bombard her brain cells like a thousand meteorites. The tap on the door is soft and gentlemanly. Ah! My Prince, you desire my company — but wait just a moment further ... let me make you squirm more.
When at last she hauled herself upright against the door and released the catch — there stood _______, it was not the Prince. Looking around, her first impression of the person laid out before her, was that he was just too immaculate, too orderly, too perfect to exist in a world of flawed, disorderly and imperfect men. Oh! Pick-up-sticks; where has this specimen been all my life? As if reading her thoughts ... the perfect man provided the answer.
Chapter 6
James Arthur Dampier.
His father had held a position within the English Government - and had always been busy, and important to himself. His mother had been a great beauty — well off — in her own right ... and who cared only to go to parties and amuse herself with other people of beauty and wealth. She had not wanted children at all. Often in public, accusing her husband of forcing himself upon her.
He caught me in happy period and when my guard was down. Was the story often told to other mothers. James was born (the required period from one of those happy occasions.)
James was brought to manhood in the care of mrs. Sittington - seeing his parents at times ... that best suited them. Please keep the child out of sight as much as possible. His thoughts recalled those instructions. He captured the best of both his parents features ... his strong torso structure; of square shoulders and muscular arms and legs — matched his father's in every-way. James was sent to the best is schools. Intelligent, robust mind (head strong,) self insurance (no ones fool was he,) a leader of man. From near and far he could be seen to tower over all ... a beacon of hope (a savour,) to those less fortunate. Convince him of a financial difficulty and a cheque would be forthcoming. Pray on his good nature and a bed would be provided — a food package would be forwarded to a deprived and desperate mother. Employment would be found for a person fallen on hard times — letters of good character would be placed in the hands of authorities. Nothing James would not, do or have arranged to have done ... for friend or tho. All these well meaning characteristics can be contributed to his father; including his black hair. His stunning continental facial beauties — his large blue eyes; the perfect proportioned nose; the rose coloured cheeks and the slim sexy pink lips — all provided by is mother's creation of a God upon that exciting strong torso structure given to empower every women caught within his web of seduction, and _______ .
Can this man be more perfect? Isabel, holding firmly to the door frame to steady herself. I hope he is as rich as he is handsome? Another thought to enter her head. To a question not asked of her, yet gave an answer ... Yes you are the most handsome of all men - I'm 100 percent sure of that.
Reader. Things happen in threes, do they not? So we encounter this scenario.
'I trust I am not disturbing you.' His voice, a sweet tone. She thought. Came to her through a full face of hair. Not an over grown mass — well groomed. Her women's eye was telling her.
'No. No not all, please come in. Please remove that fine black coat, that white shirt, do slip out of those stripped trouser — remove those white shoes, and lay yourself upon my bed. All spoken yet not heard. Pull your self together Isabel Whisleworth.
'James Arthur Dampier,' introduced in that sweet tone — taking Isabel's hand and placing a kiss upon it.
'Lady Isabel Whisleworth,' her words slipped out (without prompting,) I'm at your disposal ... Followed by ... 100 percent. Words thought, not ushered.
Chapter 7
What did happen in Isabel's bedroom?
Before further love making rituals could commence; came soldier like cursing from the bathroom. General Darling lost his balance — half naked (or half dressed,) he catapulted head first into the (now) very cold water ... taking with him the glass of port, the decanter, his walking stick, and the morning paper. Next came a splash of water, presenting itself at the door of the bath (it had a touch of red to it.) Isabel's hand shot to her month; but could not stop her from scream. 'General; what are you doing?' 'Stop wasting Anthony's port.'
Jame's hand was tossed aside. Just don't stand there you good-for-nothing. Stop the port from reaching the carpet. It will cost a fortune to replace. Of cause none of this Isabel cursed out loud.
The General was pronounced dead — by James Arthur Dampier. He'd seen many a dead person. 'I've seen many a dead person.' He said with that sweet tone, and started to recite the occasions.
'l would love to hear more of those occasions (later,) but now we must make haste — help me get the General out of my bath and back into his room.' How charm her voice presented itself to this occasion. How nice to have two men (in a state of half dress,) She thought.
They had the General out of the bath. 'I'm unable to draw his trousers up any further ... for his legs are all wet.' James was explaining.
Isabel. 'We will cover him with this towel.' Reaching to the towel rail — grabbing the largest one. It was white ... with Clamton-house written in large blue lettering.
Reader. How unfortunate poor timing can prove to be. Being in the wrong place at the inappropriate time. Walking the path just as a masonry block is dislodge from the parapet above — or in this case ... passing the doorway of Lady Isabel's room.
Reader. We are all familiar with the saying — good or bad things come in threes ... we find ourselves with this scenario.
'You take the Generals legs.' James proving the instructions, 'and I'll take his shoulders,' continued James. Isabel opened the door into the hallway. Pick-up-sticks, it's like a highway to heaven. 'Wait; mr. Dampier.'
'Have you seen General Darling?' Asks Molly, as she passes Lady Whisleworth's door.
'NO.' She was sure was her answer.
'If you do, advise him that the Prince requests his attendance at his table tonight.' Molly was at the end of the hall, and heading down the stairs.
Isabel closed the door. 'We will have to leave the General here for now.' James let the body drop to the floor. 'Why?' He asks.
'Be gone with you mr. Dampier; I must dress for tea.' Mr. Dampier found himself in the hallway without his hat and coat ... and un-sure if he should enquire after them — just at this time.
The clock in the front hallway — struck 8. The clock in the tower of St. Davids - struck 8. The gold cased pocket watch (once belonging to King George,) and now hanging (on a gold Albert chain,) in the pocket of Prince Edwards waste coat — struck eight o'clock.
Chapter 8
Tea is served.
Mrs. Dickwella was playing God save the Queen on the piano. Mr. Britton and mr. Gregsbury were singing along beautifully — both in perfect harmony. When the Prince entered the room — all the quests stood — except mr. Muir, for he had only one leg, and he knew for the time it took him to stand ... the others would again be settled. So be just waved his hat.
Reader. Earlier, Molly (the kitchen maid,) and her siblings ... Dolly, Debby (Colin - their adorable young brother,) and Martha had the table (with the best sea view,) set fit for a Prince. Mr. Clamton (junior) yes mr. Clamton (j) of Clamton-house,) had, himself inspected the table settings ... and mrs. Clamton had seen to the cleanliness of all the table cloths.
The ringing of the brass dong — rung throughout the establishment. Doors left and right of Lady Isabel opened. The sound drawing guests for tea. Why was I not informed that Prince had decided to dine in the dinning room? Isabel inquired of herself.
Excited quests filed into the dinning room, Isabel found herself being ushered towards a table (to far she thought from the table with the best view of the sea,) turning, saying to herself. That is our table Anthony dear. Isabel heard her name.
'Isabel.' 'Over here, sit with us.' Isabel negotiated her way forward with a clear head and sound determination. Randolph stood, pulling the out for her to sit. Rose was all smiles.
'The have seated the Prince at our table.' Isabel told Rose. Rose smiled. Is he not a good looking man, were her thoughts.
'My I join you?' Isabel removed her eyes from (that other table,) and looked up. It was mr. James Arthur Dampier (wearing his second best coat.) 'Please do.' It was Rose who invited the new quest.
'Does not the Prince look wonderful dressed as he has tonight?' Rose presented her statement towards Randolph. His reply was. 'Yes he does,' '100 percent.'
Mrs. Dickwella finished playing God save the Queen - and rose from her chair. Mr. Britton and mr. Gregsbury - stood tall, beaming with pride. The Prince and Lilie Langtry (her gloved hand in his,) followed mr. Clamton (j) the table (by the window, with the best of views.)
Mr. Clamton (j) provide a short speech — thanking the Prince for again visiting Clamton-house, and that he (the Prince,) would enjoy his time here.
The Prince waved his Royal hand (raising his large frame from his chair — just a little,) miss Langtry just smiled. Applause (a short clapping of hands,) concluded the introduction. The quests once again sat with dissipation of eating.
Lady Whisleworth insisted the chair to her immediate right — be left for her husband. 'Don't be silly.' Rose whispered. 'Let mr. Dampier occupied that seat.' And so he did.
Mrs. Dickwella and mr. Dickwella sat across from Isabel, Mr. Britton with his rather large wife (with two double chins,) two double chins, how unkind life can be to some. Isabel thought.
Mr. Gregsbury and his wife Matilda to their left,
and as we know mr. Dampier next to Isabel with Rose next to him and finally mr. Randolph Blackbridge ... who again held the conversation to ransom.
Of cause there was no sign of General Albert Darling (of the 72nd on foot Regiment,) no one was concerned for his absence. Not even the Prince, for on the chair (once provide for the General,) now sat young mrs. _______ .
Chapter 9
General Albert Darling
General Albert Darling found himself in an unfamiliar bed. Is head ranging of bells. (The General,) was very much alive (but so well.) Looking under the sheets he discovered half a body dressed and half a body not. His lower back ached, his upper body bruised, his legs with scratches ... a migraine sat within his head, worse than the many after battle celebrations. Oh! Where am I? If only I could think straight — or could think at all, would be my thoughts right now.
Mrs. Dickwella was again at the piano, drumming away — completing her whole ______ of known tunes. Those who can sing (with any certainty, of holding a note,) were doing so — those of us (of them there,) who could not ... sung along anyway. Nothing of a sour note could be heard. No one heard (or took notice,) of the clock in the front hallway — striking 1. Nor the clock in the tower of St. Davids — striking 2. Even the gold cased pocket watch (once belonging to King George,) and now hanging (on a gold Albert chain,) in the pocket of Prince Edwards waste coat — striking three o'clock.
In fact it could have been four o'clock, before those not already asleep (where they had fallen,) made their way back to their beds.
Reader. Some paired off in couples that did not assemble in such the manner as to when they entered for tea ... all those hours ago. Yet be assured (using their christian names,) Rose and Randolph — who came together, did leave together. Jack and Jill, I'm sure they did. Jonas and his wife Matilda (with the double chins,) I'm convinced ... as for the others; I have no proof — either one way or another. Lilie retired at one of the hours struck by the clocks earlier (no one sure of which hour.) Edward the last seen to retire ... as for young Molly; no one witnessed her departure.
You can remove your hands from my under garments you young Casanova. Isabel's mind in a state of confusion — and unable to give these instructions to the young Casanova. 'What will Anthony say if he catches us in this manner?' Her words directed towards her young lover. Oh! Pick-up-sticks, her head — ring with the sounds of sticks crashing to the floor. 'This is my room ... please leave me now, remove your hand, please stop kissing me.'
'Be gone with you; I must dress for bed.' The (unknown young lover,) found himself in the hallway, and un-sure if he should enquire regarding her breakfast requirements.
There were no lights on in her bedroom. I'm sure I left the bed side light on was Isabel' remembrance. But the room was in semi-darkness (no sounds coming from within.) Isabel took little steps (in the dim light,) feeling her way (her heart beating loud,) her eyes becoming accustomed to that around her ... she fancied she could hear breathing — did she hear a far off faint cry? Isabel continued further into her bedroom. Oh! Pick-up-sticks, get out of here, her head was telling her. Yet she went on. Sometimes the crying stopped (for a moment or so,) and then began again. Then there was whispering and giggles. I can hear someone whispering and giggling, she told herself.
It's coming from right in that corner. Isabel stopped and thought. Yes, it is. Between the dressing table and then to the left of the wardrobe ... taking two broad steps (and then turning to the right. Yes, she told herself. I'm on the right path.
There was the bathroom door; she pushed it open very gently (then it closed it behind her,) Oh! She cried. There in the bath (naked) lay both her sister (Rose) and mr. Randolph. Isabel slowly reversed into the closed door ... not a sound passing from either parties.
Isabel found herself back in the bedroom. There is that whispering and giggling, her mind raced with this information. She stood between the writing desk and the bed ... she can hear soaring quite loud, though not to loud. It was coming from her bed — close to the side by the wall. Who is that in my bed? The question addressed to herself. Someone is in my bed.
Isabel advanced towards the bed — the bed, an ancient and handsome (carved four-posted bed,) a fine piece of furniture.
From the soft light glowing faintly from under the bathroom door (for now the light now turned on,) on the bed ... lying two heads. One, that of mr. James Dampier and the other that of General Darling.
Oh! Two wonderful gentleman ... Isabel wondered if she was in a real place or if she had fallen asleep? She stood for sometime inspecting those two heads. James she thought, has a sharp, delicate face of an ivory colour, his eyes seemed to be too large for it, and has lots of hair. As for the General - his forehead covered in heavy locks — making her fat face seem even fatter. He has no boy looks remanding — age has for sure over taken them ... he looks ill — not from heavy crying more like from great in pain.
Isabel removed much of her clothing (just leaving some personal garments,) then she crept into the bed (drawing nearer,) to the younger of the two bodies.
The light from under the bathroom door disappeared as did the whispering and the giggling stop. The General's soaring also ceased ... I'll turn my back to that gentlemen, and concentrate on attentions upon the other gentleman, were her intentions.
The morning light fighting its way through the curtains — woke all. Rose and Randolph emerged from the bathroom (none the worse from a night in a bath tub,) General Darling had woken earlier and left without a goodbye. James was making a pot of tea and (our Lady Isabel Whisleworth’s,) had woken with a migraine; and a third body in her bed.
'You're not my husband,' she screamed.
'No.' he replied after waiting a moment or so.
'I am Colin _______ .'
Chapter 10
Homeward bound.
The Prince leaves … the luxury Daimler limousine (with its royal warrant,) — arrives outside Clamton-house. Again drawing a great deal of attention of all, many stopping to witness his royal highness departure.
Hoo ra! Hoo ra! The crowd shouts; women _____ ; men raised their hats … children wave,
also stands Mr. Clamton (j) waving ... 'Will we see you again next year — your Highness?
‘Un-likely' Was his reply. Spoken to himself.
Lady Whisleworth’s carriage arrives soon after the Princes’s limousine departs. She is set to leave — put a step on it Anthony … the carriage will not wait all day.
Mr. Clamton (j) takes her hand. 'Will we see you again next year Lady Whisleworth? '
'No.' Was her reply. Come Anthony spoken to herself.
'Are you sure?' Again asks mr. Clamton (j).
‘Yes, I'm sure; mr. Clamton (j) ... Followed by 100 percent.
The End.
Is the only other thought (our) Lady Isabel Whisleworth - could bring to mind.