Decorum (Closed for Chris2c4u)

[Lady_Mornington]

"Nineteen-year old girls of respectable families are dangerously susceptible to love because of all the novels they read."

The voice of Mr. Shelbridge, the County Parson, carried through the room striking at the root of her. She risked a glance sideways, finding her mother to nod in agreement.

"Sound advice, Mr. Shelbridge, sound advice." Mother turned ot her and gave
her an imperious stare. "You see my dear, Mr Shelbridge and I are in agreement here."

Katherine, eyes cast down, murmured an answer, wanting nothing more than to be excused, to leave the parlour and hide in her room, Preferably never to leave. She had tried to be good, to meet Mother's standards, but however hard she tried there always seemed to something missing. She was too interested in reading, or she was too lazy. She didn't know the necessary requirements for a young woman, or she knew the wrong ones. More than once she had wondered if she would ever amount to anything in her Mother's eyes.

On Mr. Shelbridge's insistence, her books had been taken away leaving only the Scriptures and a slim volume that described how a proper Christian young woman ought to behave. All her precious books. Katherine felt tears forming in the corners of her eyes at the thought of her beloved volumes being put away in a crate...or even worse being destroyed.

"If only Father had been around things would have been different." But he wasn't. A captain of an Indiaman rarely saw home and family thus leaving Katherine in the care of Mother. It wasn't that the woman was wicked, but her scope was limited. Terribly limited. She wanted her to keep up the proper appearance in order to secure a marriage that would befit her station.

She missed Father something terribly, and she missed her brother Daniel. It was he who had encouraged her to read, to acquaint herself with the marvels of the written word. He had always been so kind, but now he was living with his wife in London. She rarely heard from him these days, but she understood that he was carving out a political career for himself.

Mr Shelbridge stood up, announcing his intention as to leave and Katherine meekly offered a curtsey as Mother followed him to the door. She could hear them talking, Mr Shelbridge assuring her that the problems would soon be alleviated and then raising the issue of a fiancee. Mother had hinted that young Mr. Windham had shown a keen interest in Katherine. She shruddered at the thought. John Windham was an obese drinker, but then again he was also of a highly respectable family.

She excused herself as Mother returned, feigning a beginning headache and was thusly allowed to withdraw to her room. Laying on the bed she contemplated her situation. Her books taken from her, about to be engaged to the horrid John Windham, No that wouldn't do. She stood up as the thought materialised in her mind. She'd run away. She'd go to London and ask Daniel for help. He'd understand her and surely he'd take sides with her. Yes. that's what she'd do.

Quietly collecting a few things she would need, two dresses, the one she wore not counted for, her comb and the hair-pins, her lavender soap, encased in the box that Father had bought for her, stockings and pants. She reasoned that she'd make it to London in a day, provided she'd get a ticket for the stage-coach. Opening the window and dropping her bag down into the garden, and picking up the purse before steadying herself. Taking a deep breath she walked downstairs, telling Mother that she was feeling better and was going for a short walk. Snatching her cape and bonnet from the hook by the door and making for the garden. Her bag lay where she had dropped it and without a second glance Katherine Shears set off for London.

 

[chris2c4u]

Patrick Stead emerged shading his gaze with his hand in the weak sunlight on the steps of Montagu House. He blinked and wiped his eye; though the return to the light after the dimness of the British Museum could be blamed in part, the other tear came from the nature of the young man.

He, along with many others of his class had recently been attracted to the museum upon publication of the news of the display of many of the treasures of Eygpt; that they had recently been wrest from the grasp of the French made the display all the more attractive. For Patrick though, to see such sites from the mists of time made patriotic fervour pale by comparison. Here were bodies from two millenia past and now - this stone they had found, he felt sure it promised that a translation of those famous pictograms of the Egyptians was becoming more and more likely. The sight and ideas had moved him.

The 28 year old, of private means thanks to his family's generosity had, since coming down from Oxford, been able to indulge his passions for the intellectual. He had already had a few short essays published and now he hoped he could get together an article on this display of Egyptian antiquities for the new Edinburgh Review that some of his more risque friends had told him about.

He was fairly sure his father wouldn't mind if he wrote for it, even if "the old man" was a dyed in the wool Tory and the new venture was decidedly radical, at least according to the thoughts of Bill Hazlitt, one of it's instigators when last they had met in London.

There had been a new spirit in the air for years now and change was afoot, he was sure. The coffee houses buzzed of political reform, of the end of slave trading, of recognising the rights of the oppressed here at home. Not that the "oppressed" were conspicuous in Bloomsbury as he made his way to the house of his friend Daniel Shears.

The door was opened and Patrick, the reformer, ignored the under-housemaid save to give her his coat and hat and to be directed to the library to wait for his companion.

On the boxwood table Patrick found that year's edition of Wordsworth's Lyrical Ballads. His eyes widened and he picked it up, leafing through the pages. It was he recited to himself,

"Strange fits of passion have I known:
And I will dare to tell,
But in the Lover's ear alone,
What once to me befell."

Daniel appeared in the doorway and smiled at his friend's reciting to himself.

"How does it go?" he said, making Patrick jump.

"When she I loved looked every day
Fresh as a rose in June,
I to her cottage bent my way,
Beneath an evening moon."

Patrick laughed.

"Much better to recite it to some woman to make love to, eh?"

Patrick blushed but nodded, yes that would be ideal though Daniel knew well enough of his friend's relative inexperience with the art of love, despite a passion for Byron and Shelley. The two friends greeted one another and took their ease while Patrick explained how Daniel should accompany him soon back to the museum to see the treasures.

"Yes, a fine idea if I could find the time. What with Parliamentary business - opposing your father in the lobbies! And..." Daniel stopped and glanced away.

"And? You look troubled -"

Daniel nodded. "It may come to nothing but I have had recently several letters from my sister. I fear that she is more of a free spirit than my mother can deal with. She had gotten old Parson Shelbridge into her web and together, from the sound of the letters, they have sorely oppressed her spirit."

This is Katherine..of course." Patrick recalled meeting her at a society dance when the girl was younger but he knew she got on well with her brother and they all shared a love of literature and exploring the new romantic ideas that washed over them.

"Still," Daniel said, "I will go back home soon and try to get Mother to give the poor girl some room. I do believe she also has intentions of marrying her off you know. Who'd have thought she'd have had an eye to the family dynasty after Father passed on."

Patrick nodded and sighed. Yet another, oppressed. They turned to talk of politics but Patrick's mind was full of the half remembered images of Katherine.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Katherine had roused no suspicions as she strolled into town, heading for the guesthouse '"The Ox and Star", where she was informed that one might procure a ticket with the newly set up coach-service to London.

She had rehearsed her story over and over as she had walked into town. Hoping that the publican and agent for the Dolphin Coach Services, Mr Armstrong would not be suspicious as to her hasty departure. Steadying herself as she seemingly full of confidence strode into the Ox and Star, seeing Mr Armstrong standing behind the bar, flanked by his daughter Sally.

"Miss Shears, what can I do for you on this wonderful morning?"
The Tyneside accent still discernable, even though Katherine suspected he'd been living down south for more than twenty years.

"I'd like to buy I ticket with the Dolphin Coach to London, Mr Armstrong."
She assumed what she thought was a haughty stare, deflecting any further inquiries as to her reasons to leave home.

He informed her that there was indeed a coach bound for London departing within the hour, and for the price of £2 and 5 shillings, she would buy the seat.

"And since it's you Miss Shears I will supply you with a little something."
He smiled broadly as she paid the fare, and told his Sally to pack some bread, cured ham and a cheese for Katherine. Mr.Armstrong had been a good friend of her Father and the kindness he showed her made her heart swell. Clearly the late Captain Shears of the Honourable East India Company had been a good man, and the thought strenghtened her resolve to go ahead with her plan to escape.

"He who binds himself a joy
Does the winged life destroy
But he who kisses the joy as it flies
Lives in eternity's sun rise"

She found herself silently quoting the lines of Blake as she was helped to get abroad the coach. Her travelling companions were and elderly couple, a barrister and two men of commerce. Mrs Partridge, the only other woman in the coach, insisted that Katherine sit next to her, in order to retain some respectability. She had acceeded and found herself listening to the Mrs Partridge's lenghty sermon of how a young woman such as Katherine must at all times be vigilant.

Smiling sweetly as the coach started the journey, although silently thinking that respectability was throughly overrated, but offered the woman no argument but agreed to whatever she said.

The ride to London took the better part of the day, stopping only to change the horses. It was not as Katherine had second thoughts about her rather mad idea to run away, but a small part of her wondered whether Daniel would be able to help her. She hoped as much, knowing he was making a name for himself arguing for more liberal reform in Parliament. Surely he would not suffer to see her being married of to a man whom she loathed?

The bells of London greeted the coach as they pulled to a halt near Piccadilly. Having the address to her brother's house but no idea how to get there, Katherine was somewhat at loss. The Partridges did however know and Being escorted by the sturdy Mrs Partridge, her husband walking a pace or so in front of them, in order to deter whatever perils that may befall two women, they reached Daniel's house. Offering her thank-yous to the Partridges she climed the few steps and knocked the door. Saying a silent prayer that Daniel would not be cross with her for running away.

 

[chris2c4u]

Daniel smiled at his friend. "Well, enough of family matters - why don't we go down to Brooks, join the family of gentlemen?"

Patrick nodded; the suggestion was agreeable to him. He had little to no chance of ever being a member at the famous club but Daniel enjoyed taking him there to rub shoulders with the great, the good - and not so good - and the powerful.

They quickly reached St James' and were ensconsed in the library with brandy. "Let's hope the excise dodgers manage to keep a few barrels flowing across the channel while this business with the Frenchies goes on, eh?" A bewhiskered old gent leaned over and raised his glass to the two young men.

Patrick always found it difficult not to look at each man, to see if he was one of the famous. Daniel was much more used to it but he slipped away a couple of times to insinuate himself with some Whig grandee or other.

Patrick took a stroll into the games room. As it was only early evening only a few games were in progress though a small huddle of men near a backgammon board made it clear that, as usual, high stakes were being wagered.

"There you are Daniel - here, come and have a word with Aldiss...he met Coleridge just the other week..."

****

It was late in the evening when the two friends strolled back, Daniel having convinced Patrick to stay the night and use his library the following day to begin his article on the Egyptian antiquities.

They were surpised to find the butler, Jenkins, still up and about, as Daniel normally gave permission for the staff to retire when he went out in the evening.

"Sir, you have a visitor. She is waiting in the drawing room though I fear she may have fallen into a doze."

"Who on earth is it?"

Jenkins led the way and opened the door. In the light of a single candle they saw Katherine, curled up in the large armchair, her head on her hands, asleep.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Katherine awoke with a start as her brother entered the room. Suddenly feeling at loss as to what to say.

"Kitty what on earth are you doing here?"

She smiled as he used her pet-name rather than Katherine. Only two people had been allowed to do so, Father being one of them and Daniel the other. She felt the warmth that had existed between them and unable to control her emotions she embraced him, resting her head on his shoulder.

"I'm sorry Daniel, but I just had to leave Dormont. Please don't be cross with me."

She wanted to tell him all about the plans that Mother and Mr.Shelbridge had made for her. The impending marriage with the horrid John Windham and the fact that all her precious books had been taken from her. Yet at that moment she was overcome with emotions and found herself to be dumbstruck. She held on to him, not quite wanting to let go of the secure embrace that he offered. Daniel had been her stable point, especially after Father's death and although almost ten years separated them they had still forged a very tight bond.

"Dear Kitty I'm sure there must be something extraordinary that have prompted your visit." His voice soothing as he gently disentangled himself and held her at arm's lenght. "Does Mother know that you're here?"

She shook her head, not able to explain that she had run away, going to London on her own. Daniel would probably be angry with her and, God forbid, have her sent back.

"We have to discuss this tomorrow." He have her a look which she couldn't interpret and then turned to the young man who had accompanied him.

"Where's my manners? Patrick, this is my sister Miss Katherine Shears. Kitty, may I introduce my good friend Mister Patrick Stead."

Mr Stead took her proffered hand, gave a small bow and ever so gently kissed it. Katherine couldn't help but blush, never had she had her hand kissed, and by such handsome a man.

She stammered a reply, completely taken by Mr Stead. To her mind he struck her as being the embodiment of all her romantic yearnings.

Daniel had watched their exchange with a small smile, seeing clearly what effect the simple gesture had had on her. Although amused he thought it proper to save his sister further embarresment.

"Kitty I'm sure you're tired, and further Mr Stead and I have some issues that needs discussing. Jenkins will show you to the guestroom. We will talk more in the morning."

With that he kissed her forehead and summoning Jenkins she was ushered out of the room, but not before she could steal another glance at Mr Stead.

"He's so very handsome." She once more felt the blush colour her cheeks as she went up the stairs to her room. Wondering if she would have the chance to get acquainted with him.

 

[chris2c4u]

Patrick had risen early the next morning and had breakfast with Daniel; Katherine was not there and her brother decided it would be best not to disturb her. Jenkins nodded; he had informed the staff that there was another guest so breakfast wouold be served when she was ready.

"Don't work too hard Patrick - perhaps I'll see you when I get back from the House. We could have supper with Katherine?"

Patrick agreed to the suggestion knowing it meant he had a day to work on his article and the company of his two friends later.

He retired to the library after Daniel left. He gathered a collection of texts around him on a writing desk and was transported back in time many hundreds of years by tales of travellers to the pyramids and tombs of Egypt.

It was in this trance like state that Katherine found him late in the morning. he had not heard her come in and he was startled when he heard her say, "I'm sorry - I hadn't realised...I was just.."

Patrick blinked and looked up, his reverie disturbed. At first he frowned thinking it might have been one of the servants but then smiled when he saw Katherine.

"No - please, come in, you weren't to know."

She stopped at the door and he stood, realising he was stiff from sitting so long. He stretched.

"Were you looking for some particular book? Perhaps I could help you - I know my way around Daniel's library perhaps better than he does himself! Not that he is un-literary...Well, I hope you know what I mean - he is kind to help a man of humbler means to complete my trifling works. I'm currently at work on a piece concerning a fascinating exhibition on at the Museum - perhaps you know it? Montagu House. I am hoping to get Daniel to accompany me there some time soon."

He stopped, realising he was prattling on. He did hope that she would stay a while in London - hopefully after she told her Mother where she was. He felt himself thinking that it would be nice if she could also accompany them to the museum.

"Perhaps you have an interest in antiquities? Or..what is your taste in reading?"

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Kitty smiled sweetly at Mr Stead as he got up to greet her. He had discarded his jacket and had been working in his shirtsleeves. Bent over the books that formed a small foothill on the desk.

"I do like to read poetry Mr.Stead, especially the works of Messrs. Wordsworth and Blake. Although I fear that I haven't got the sufficient faculty to wholly comprehend the latter. Mr. Blake is indeed a most challenging writer and poet wouldn't you agree?"

She stood by the bookshelves that lined the walls of the library, picking out volumes at random and flickiing through the pages. Daniel was indeed blessed being able to indulge his passion for both prose and poetry, although she guessed that he had scarce time now, being an MP and everything.

"All my books were taken from me Mr.Stead, that's one of the reasons I ran away. I fear that Mother is going to be terribly cross with me for doing so but I care not. I would never go back to Dormont."

She risked a glance at Mr Stead, fearing that he might disapprove of her outburst, yet it seemed that he was in agreement. Smiling shyly as she moved closer, tentatively putting her hand on the desk.

"I would very much like to see the aforementioned exhibition Mr Stead, but I fear it would not be proper for me to attend it with you without the company of a chaperone."

Once again smiling, but a tad less shyly. Kitty would want nothing else than to be accompanied by Mr.Stead, yet she knew that by doing so and without Daniel's company, there was a risk of talk. She knew she couldn't afford that to happen, given that she'd placed all her eggs in his basket, he mustn't be implicated in any scandal,

"Perhaps we could appeal to my brother so that he may join us Mr.Stead. I think it's the most suitable arrangement. But until he arrives perhaps you may be so kind as to further explain the more subtle meanings of Mr Blake's poetry. I understand that you are a man much versed in such issues Mr.Stead."

She sat down on the sofa, and shot him a radiant smile.

 

[chris2c4u]

"I would very much like to see the aforementioned exhibition Mr Stead, but I fear it would not be proper for me to attend it with you without the company of a chaperone."

Patrick nodded, more than happy that she said she would be interested in going.

"We could ask Daniel," he began as she was saying, "Perhaps we could appeal to my brother so that he may join us Mr.Stead..."

They laughed at their shared idea and she nodded.

"I think it's the most suitable arrangement," she continued, "but until he arrives perhaps you may be so kind as to further explain the more subtle meanings of Mr Blake's poetry. I understand that you are a man much versed in such issues Mr.Stead."

Mr Stead found himself modestly saying that he knew little of the great author's works but he did know that Daniel owned a copy of The Marriage of Heaven and Hell. He took the small ladder and climbed to the higher shelves, where the books were dustier and retrieved the volume.

"I think he worries about the servant's seeing such things so he hides them up there. Mr Blake is, as you know a rather controersial author concerning matters of religion in particular." Daniel, despite his liberal views, did ensure that the servants attended church services on Sunday.

Patrick opened the volume and read from it. After a little his voice faltered as he realised that the book he had chosen included Blake's subtle words concerning the finding of true love - physical as well as spiritual.

"It is a book which," he began, "well. Very spiritual, I always think." He passed the book to Kitty still open at the page as if hoping she would coment. He found himself strangely fascinated by his own actions; most forward and yet he could not stop himself.

They spoke for a while about Blake and he found himself taking the book back, his fingers brushing hers as he thought of some point he recalled elsewhere in the text. They had by now sat side by side and he felt himself telling her something of his early life.

"I was myself aimed on a course rather metaphysical. No, not poetry but when I finished my degree at Oxford it was thought I might make for the church. Do you think I would have suited Holy Orders, Miss Shears?" He smiled and told also of his father, the wool factor in Gloucestershire and the favours he had done his son by letting him make his way to London and try his hand at writing.

He looked back to the book and read, "Let the Priests of the Raven of dawn, no longer in deadly black, with hoarse note curse the sons of joy. Nor his accepted brethren, whom, tyrant, he calls free: lay the bound or build the roof. Nor pale religious letchery call that virginity, that wishes but acts not! For every thing that lives is Holy."

He kept his eyes on the page, revealing much about his spirit through his choice of quotation. He looked up, suddenly continuing his digression into his past.

"Oh yes, I have been down in Grub Street as well as flying high with Daniel's well to do friends at the clubs and coffee houses." He didn't tell her of the bawdy house opium-eaters his colleagues at one scurrilous journal had introduced him too.

He cleared his throat. "Perhaps you also enjoy others of our more avante guard poets? Byron? Shelley?"

Again, he could not resist suggesting the names of the most dangerous of the literary coterie who were experimenting with drugs and freedom from the conventions of society - including marriage. He observed her reactions for a moment before he went to quickly find examples of their works.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Mr Stead's company was thoroughly enjoyable. The way that he described the deeper meanings for Mister Blake's poetry had made Kitty stare in disbelief and then to smile. Understanding now why Mr Shelbridge had taken such a dour view of her reading the same.

The mention of Byron and Shelley made her blush. It was definetly not the kind of poetry nor prose a young respectable lady like herself ought to read, but then again neither Mother nor Mr Shelbridge was here to interceed.

Biting her lower lip, a habit she had when doing something that strictly speaking was forbidden she shook her head in answer to his question.

"I fear I am not familiar with the works as such Mr Stead, but perhaps it would be educational to hear about them. I am confident that you will not divulge in the more explicit passages. It would ill befit the occasion don't you think?"

Yet Kitty's entire posture signlled her growing interest in the darker sides that she had understood coloured the writings of Lord Byron and Mrs Shelley. Leaning closer as to draw some comfort from the closeness to Mr Stead and placing her hand on his arm.

"But we must not tell Daniel. I fear he might be most upset would he find out."

Smiling and nodding awaiting his assent to her request, her slender fingers gripping his arm.

"It might amount to scandal but I'm sure you understand that Mr Stead."

 

[chris2c4u]

Daniel didn't have any Byron ihis library but he did find Woolstonecraft's Vindication of the Rights of Woman - agai kept well away form the servants. He handed it to Kitty, expecting her to have seen is as she mentioned the works of Mrs Shelley.

"She has many good ideas - women are overlooked by Rousseau." He stumbled to an end but then began again, "of course she herself has led a rather - colourful life. Perhaps not to be emulated."

Her scandal had excluded her from polite society in London, he recalled.

Sitting beside Kitty they discussed ideas and grew animated with them until he finally noticed the time and that they had been alone together for so long.

"Perhaps - we can share luncheon - then I should work. My article."

They went to the dining room where they took lunch. Patrick grew a little quieter his thoughts running around their discussions and what he had got to know about this remarkable young woman, whohad left home for her own freedoms. Not unlike Mary Woolstonecroft herself. He wondered if she were like the feminist in otherways.

He found himself blushing as he wondered about her attitudes to freedoms from convention. It was not proper; decorum suggested that he banish thoughts of her in such a way. Yet - he could not.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Kitty was absolutely taken by Mr Stead. She had of course heard of Mary Woolstonecraft, but both Mother and Mr.Shelbridge had deemed it to be out of the question for her to read it.

It struck her that Mr.Stead was a very modern man indeed, and it lightened her heart to be able to converse with him. Further he didn't frown at her questions, no matter how uninformed they might be. Mr.Stead had patiently described the ideas that were the foundation of "The Vindication of the Rights of Women". She had grown animated as they discussed the issue, Mr Stead seemingly pleased that she had warmed to the subject.

On his insistence they took luncheon in the dining-room where the discussion continued, although Mr Stead had grown somewhat silent. Kitty chided herself. Perhaps her blabbering had bored him yet being a gentleman he would not tell her so. She felt the blush as his eyes bore into her, thoroughly convinced that for all his kindness he thought her nothing but a stupid girl with an inflated view of her own faculties.

"I'm sorry Mr Stead but I do think I shall withdraw for now. You have been most kind and I thank you for it. Yet it is not suitable for me to keep you from your calling."

She had stammered as she had spoken the sentence, standing up and making for the door but before she could turn the handle Mr.Stead had gotten to his feet and walked to stand beside her.

"No Ms Shears, I'm the one who ought to be sorry. I fear I got carried away as we talked. Please stay with me and let us continue our discussion. I find it most refreshing to tell you the truth. Most of my confidants are to mindful of convention and decorum to dare explore the ideas of this new century."

He had smiled, and gently placed his hand on her arm. The gesture innocent enough but it made Kitty blush even a deeper shade of red than she'd done before.

"Tell you what Ms Shears, do you by the way mind if I call you Katherine? You may of course call me Patrick, let us share a glass of sherry. I know that one is supposed to have it prior to one's intake of sustenance, yet I do not think that this will in any way diminish the taste." Smiling again, his handsome face lightning up somewhat.

Kitty had to clear her throat, afraid that she'd croak otherwise. It sounded marvellous and of course he might call her..

"Please Patrick, do call me Kitty. And I'd be delighted to take sherry with you."
She returned his smile. This was like something out of the novels she had read. A gentleman no less wanting to converse with her. It was like a dream.

 

[chris2c4u]

They did take sherry and they explored Daniel's library further discovering shared passions.

The afternoon wore on and Patrick was not concerned with work. After another glass of sherry he loosened his cravat, opening his shirt button a little.

"I hope you don't mind," he said to Katherine.

"Of course not," she smiled.

"I fear I'm a little intoxicated," he said with a grin. He wanted to go on, to say intoxicated with her presence but his nerve failed at the last moment and he looked rather shyly into his glass. It wasn't long after that Daniel returned and enquired how they had spent their day after telling them of the House of Commons in uproar at rural violence and a determination not to reform the boroughs despite the clamour for chance.

"I have been rather free with your library," Patrick confessed. "I made a start on the article but then was pleased to digress with your delightful sister into poetry."

"She's been getting you onto poetry eh? She's a romantic, in more ways than one," he said and grinned at Katherine.

"Now why don't we dress for dinner, Kitty - this old vagabond will have to stay his his day wear -" he said to Patrick with a wink. "Then perhaps a drive down to Vauxhall Gardens, show Kitty the old town eh?"

Daniel left and Patrick stammered, "I enjoyed myself a great deal this afternoon. I hope that we can discuss more on the subjects we spoke of - another time." Clumsily he took her hand and lifted it; she seemed so surprised she did not resist as he brought it to his lips and kissed her fingertips.

****

The pleasure gardens at Vauxhall were an attraction for locals and visitors. Trees were decked with lanterns, vendors sold food and the classes mixed freely. They stood before the cages of a lion and a tiger and marvelled at them, Daniel suggesting that "if Kitty was to decamp here full time, then we should have to visit the new zoo." Patrick nodded enthusiastcally; anything that ensured that he might see the young lady again was to his liking.

At the end of the evening he shared Daniel's carriage part of the way and then took his leave. He was pleased that Daniel invited him round the following day if he wished to continue his work. He smiled happily at the prospect but was looking at Kitty as he did so.

His dreams that night were full of her - and of the scandalous ideas they had been hinting at that day.

"Free love, Patrick, isn't that what the romantics indicate is right? What is decorum, order, propriety?" As she was speaking she was losing her clothing; his imaginings, when he awoke had left him excited. He closed his eyes a moment unable to get the image of her nude body, as she called for him, from his mind.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Daniel had insisted that Kitty join him for a cup of cocoa as they returned home, explaining the many positive effects such a beverage held before turning to the more pressing issue.

"You must understand Kitty that there is no excuse for a young lady such as yourself to run away from home. No do allow me to finish. I know that you aren't best pleased with Mother's ideas of the engagment to Mr Windham, and neither am I to be perfectly honest. I must however have words with Mother before I can make a decision on this matter. I have given it some thought and if Mother persists then I shall apply to become your guardian Kitty."

His words kindled a fluttering hope, it would be absolutely wonderful to be able to move in with Daniel, to spend her days in his library and accompany him and Mr Stead to the museums and exhibitions of the Royal Capitol. She fervently hoped that Mother would retain her position on the whole issue of engagment and marriage. The thought of once again being able to sit down with Mr Stead and discuss poetry and literature made her smile. He was everything she'd ever dreamed of. Handsome, intellingent and with a heart that beat for the beauty of the arts.

"Kitty are you listening to amything I'm saying?" Daniel looked close at her, having seen her dreamy expression and the small smile on her face. "I do hope you appreciate the importance of this Katherine."

She had nodded, reassuring him that she did and that she was most grateful to him for everything he had done for her. Promising to behave as befits a young lady for the duration of her stay, which she hoped would last indefinetly.

Daniel had seen her to bed, kissed her forehead and pulling the bedcovers up to her chin. much the same way he had done when they were still living in Dormont.

Laying there in the darkness she found her thoughts again going to Mr Stead, Patrick, and she felt colours rise on her cheeks as she imagined his lips on hers. Not able to stay herself, she brought her hand down underneath the covers to rest between her legs, slowly touching her most delicate parts as she heard his voice, declaring his undying love for her.

 

[chris2c4u]

He knew that the feelings from the dream would come back the instant that he saw Kitty and he was right. He flushed to the roots of his hair as he remembered what his imagination had done.

Patrick tried to stammer something about doing more work but Daniel, thinking his friend shy, suggested that he could work in the morning if he would, "do me the honour of escorting my sister for a stroll in the park that afternoon. The weather looks as though it will remain kind."

Patrick nodded and retired to the study. He worked fitfully and eventually managed a few decent paragraphs. Eventually he sighed like a mournful lover and searched the shelves for a book. Finding it he put it in his pocket and went to luncheon with the woman who was searing his soul and preventing him from concentration on anything but romantic poetry and her face. And his memory of a dream.

****

Daniel had left his coach and they took it to the royal park where they strolled in the weak sunshine. They took a turn about the lake where they were set upon by a goose intent on finding if they had brought it anything to eat. They laughed and ran away until it lost interest and they found that they were holding hands.

"I'm sorry - Katherine." He was concerned at her reputation.

"There is nothing to be sorry about Patrick. Here, no one knows us - we might be brother and sister, a married couple - holding hands is perfectly acceptable."

"So long as we are not seen by those who know us," he said with a smile and she grinned.

"Rules of society are so foolish," he continued and they strolled again and he forgot he still held her hand. He ignored the breach of decorum that let her step close to him and her hip, as it swayed, to touch his. He ignored her taking his arm and they stood beneath the winter-dormant tree and read from the small volume of Byron he had brought with him.

He read and he met her eyes. His mouth concluded speaking the poem as his lips touched hers.

They broke the kiss with a start and looked around. No one was near.

"I am sorry," he whispered again, though he wasn't and he wanted to hold her and kiss her again.

They walked back to the coach. Once inside she held his hand on her lap and he swallowed moving closer to her, kissing her again as the coachman drove them slowly back to Daniel's house. His hand found her neck, his lips pressed to hers until he feared he might bruise her. They broke from each other and he was breathing quickly, his body again excited by her.

It was then she started and a shocked look overcame her face.

"What is it?" Patrick looked out of the window in the direction of her gaze.

"That -" she pointed to another brougham outside the house.

"It belongs to the man - Mr Windham - who my mother would have me marry."

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Kitty felt her heart freeze as she recongnised the carriage of Mr Windham. Clutching Patrick's hand for support as their own pulled up to allow them to step out.

Why must he turn up? Everything had been perfect. The walk in the Royal Gardens with Patrick, the poetry recital and the kiss. She still felt the warmth as she recalled how he his lips had pressed against her own. It was wonderful, truely wonderful and even more as she secretly had thought them to be Mr and Mrs Patrick Stead as they had been enjoying the Gardens.

And now it seemed everything she had grown to like and love would be taken from her again.

"I'd rather die than go back to Dormont Patrick"

She had whispered the words, trembling as she sought his arm for support. His hand found hers and gave her a reassuring squeeze.

"I won't let that happen Kitty." And he had smiled, and gently kissed her cheek "You need not worry, I'm sure Daniel nor I would let anyone carry you back to the confines of your home. Should it come to that, I shall call this Mr Windham out to duel."

His features showing the determination behind the words as he escorted her up the stairs, knocking on the door, the sound almost diguising Kitty's words

"I love you"

They were met by Jenkins who informed them that a Mr John Windham of Dormont was here to see Miss Shears, and that the aformentioned Mr John Windham was waiting with Mr Shears in the parlour. Kitty braced herself, squeezing Patrick's hand for support as they entered the room.

Daniel was seated in one of the armchairs, his otherwise kind features now a mask of barely contained displeasure with his guest. John Windham was standing by the mantelpiece, holding a sniffer of brandy in one hand and a smirk on his sallow face.

"As I was saying Mr Shears, your good mother Mrs Shears and myself have made an arrangement. I trust you of all people ought to know that such a contract is not to be taken lightly." He had smiled, displaying a row of tobacco-stained teeth.

Kitty visibly shruddered as he turned to her. "Oh Miss Shears, we have been terribly worried about you. I must say that you have been quite the naughty girl, running away like that." He had smiled again and made to take her hands had not Patrick stepped in his way. There was a moment when Kitty thought that Mr Windham would actually strike him and she bit her lip trying to stifle a cry. Daniel had however noticed and was now standing up his voice stern.

"Mr Windham do control yourself! As for you Patrick I would kindly ask you to leave."

"No!"

Kitty had cried out, clutching Patricks arm as she did. "I don't think my, my fiancee is to be ushered out of the room like a mere servant Daniel."

She felt the blush rise on her cheeks yet she persisted, even in face of the looks that both Daniel and Patrick were giving her.

"Yes isn't that so Patrick? I am sorry I was to taken by your proposal which you made today, but now I know and there is nothing else in the world I'd rather be than your wife." Turning to her brother she smiled shyly "You have always spoken very highly of Mr Stead have you not and seeing as we both hold eachother in high regard, none of us thought you'd have any objections to an engagement."

She dared not look at Patrick, nor at Mr Windham. Hoping fervently that her gamble would save her from the clutches of the latter, and that...and that Daniel would agree to her desperate plan.

 

[chris2c4u]

Patrick was struck dumb by the words as the eyes of the other men turned to him.

He drew a deep breath. "Kitty is...right," he said haltingly. "She has said that..."

Windham shuffled awkwardly to begin with and then cleared his throat.

"I will report back to your mother Kitty. For now I would stay your hands, sir, Miss. Given your age, Katherine, I believe it is your mother who would have the final word on this so-called engagement."

Turning, he gave a stiff bow to Daniel and retired. They watched from the window as he entered his coach and drove off.

"Well," said Daniel, "You leave me rather at a loss," he said to both of them. "Is this the true state of affairs?"

Patrick stammered, "Kitty is certainly the most agreeable soul I have spied in London since I came from Oxford. We understand each other - our interest in the poets - their ideas. We would surely be a good match."

He looked at Kitty, who smiled but then dropped her gaze to the floor. "If I may speak with you," Patrick said, walking to the door to indicate he wished to in private.

She followed him into the library where he paced. His jaw was set and he wrestled with emotions.

He cam to her and said, "to say such a thing..." he shrugged.

"Was it so terribly wrong?"

"Perhaps. Perhaps not. I'm sure we can extricate ourselves from the situation and it will buy you a little more time in London."

"Do you wish to be extricated?" Kitty said.

He looked at her.

"You did say you cared for me."

"Yes but this borders on gross impropriety," he said.

"As did the kiss," she reminded him and he blushed.

"I do - care for you. A great deal," he said and stepped closer, the thoughts of the recent conversations disappearing as he reach out and stroked her cheek. He moved closer still and they kissed again. He could feel the soft curves of her body through her dress and his hand ran down the back of it as he pressed closer.