Seduced by the Squire (closed for cumnchat)

[cumnchat]

For the first time in weeks Joshua felt at peace with the world, he moved from group to group chatting and exchanging pleasantries with everyone, Then he noticed Estelle sitting alone surprisingly looking sad and a little lost.

"All alone Estelle? Where is that rascal Silas?"

Estelle looked up at him and smiled weakly,

"I am not sure where he is, that seems to be the case all too often these days, he doesn't pay me the same attention as he did at first, I think we are done with each other, romantically anyway."

She smiled again blinking back the tears, she didn't want to cry in front of everyone, she had her reputation to uphold.

"That is a shame Estelle, but better to realize now before things get complicated."

"I am ashamed to say it Joshua but I am not too unhappy at the turn of events as my affections have settled on someone else, although he has given no indication that he feels the same towards me, promise you will say nothing to him."

"My dear Estelle of course I will say nothing, how could I when I do not even know his name?"

Joshua replied gently, wondering who it could be that had caught Estelle's eye.

"I know you you will keep your promise Joshua so I will tell you. We have spent a great deal of time together recently and he has impressed me with his intelligence and wit, his reliability, his honesty and of course his masculine good looks, his name is ,,,,,Daniel, Daniel Clothwood."

Joshua chuckled to himself, he should have seen it coming, if ever two people were made for each other then it was those two.

"I will not say a word I promise you but I think that you should , tell him how you feel, I am sure he will appreciate your honesty."

Estelle looked at him her eyes shining,

"You really think I should? What if............."

Joshua cut her off,

"What if nothing, seek him out and tell him ,,,,,,,,,,,, tonight."

He left Estelle and found Bridget among the throng, slipping his arm around her thickening waist he mused in her ear,

"There must be something in the water here, everyone is falling in love, look at what we have, Carrie and Dougan, Jean and Leslie, Rodrick and Marie and of course you and I , and unless I am very much mistaken Estelle and Daniel and I feel romance is also in the air for Bathsheba and her young constable, they haven't moved from each other's side all night just holding hands and gazing into each other's eyes."

Joshua drew Bridget into his arms and kissed her gently,

"You must be exhausted my dear let them continue while we make a discreet withdrawal."

They made their way to bed where Joshua helped Bridget undress and insisted she wear her wrapper before he lay beside her and kissed her once more.

"Good night , wife."

 

[Opensesame54321]

Estelle watched Joshua and sweet Bridget sneak away upstairs. Bridget had changed the man so much. Whereas before he was self centered and thought only of the pleasures of the flesh, after Bridget Joshua was now kind and caring , and generous. She felt that his father, the old Lord Lexford, would be greatly pleased at how his son had turned out.

It was with great apprehension that she slowly worked her way across the room until she found herself within an arm's reach of her quarry. Just why was she hesitant she knew not. Perhaps it was because of the fact that this time it was not a dalliance. This time it was real. And despite what Joshua had told her, she could not just walk up to him in this crowded room and profess her affection for him where all and sundry could hear her. She listened for a moment as Daniel spoke to one of the men about the requirements for becoming an officer of the law. Then she heard her name being called and went to answer questions some of the young ladies had about manners.

*****

The meal had taken on an air of a celebration and Carrie had watched Joshua and Bridget sneak away. The poor things had cut their honeymoon short and technically they were still newlyweds. Once Clothwood and his men had left, leaving just the 3 men assigned temporarily there at the estates, the girls had helped her to quickly put things to right before everyone had headed off to bed, save the two men set to guard the women overnight.

Carrie was brushing her hair out when Dougan entered, having just checked that the manor was secure for the night. He crossed and kissed the top of his wife's head before starting to get ready for bed.

"I wonder if everything is alright with Estelle. She seemed as if her mind were on something else."

Carrie stopped brushing and stared at her husband. "An dey say that men is superior ta wimen. Yew relly 'avn't a clue, 'ave ya?" She shook her head and Dougan stood there, puzzles. "Da poor woman 'as fallen fer Clothwood, she 'as. Oi cud see...ohhhhhhhh, love, come 'ere, quick!"

Dougan dropped his pants on the floor and ran to Carrie. "What is it? What is wrong?"

She placed his hand against her stomach and Dougan felt a small thumping against his palm. His eyes opened wide as he looked at her swelling belly in surprise.

"It's jest yer child sayin' 'ello." For the next five minutes, Dougan happily felt the baby kicking away until finally the baby seemed to tire and all three of them were soon in bed asleep.

 

[cumnchat]

It seemed that an air of well deserved peace and happiness had descended on Lexford Manor as everyone seemed in a cheery frame of mind, all smiling at each other and happy greetings. All that is except for Perkins, no one knew his first name nor did anyone ask and he seemed disinclined to give it. He tried hanging around the study in the hope of eavesdropping on Joshua, Clothwood and Estelle but that was foiled when Dougan gave him the task of stacking firewood far away from the house.

They were just going over the details of presenting their case against Ferris at his trial when there came a timid knock at the door and they found it was Venus,

"What can we do for you Venus, if you want extra bedding or some such thing you had best speak to Carrie."

"No Sir, t'ain't nowt like that, oi'm not even sure oi should be bothering you with it. but it's that Perkins Sir, sommat ain't right about 'im."



"What do you mean 'sommat not right'? He appears to be a thoroughly decent fellow"

"There's the rub Sir oi'd agree wiv yer but when we wuz,,,,,at the other house," She shuddered at the very thought,"'E wuz always 'anging around 'IM', sorta on 'is coat tails Sir. Then when Bathsheba were took the two men spoke to 'im first an' 'e pointed 'er out to 'em."

Clothwood exploded, angrily shouting at Venus.

"WHAT? Why did you not speak before? Never mind Venus excuse my outburst but we have been looking for the fox in the hen house, now I think we have him "

Estelle was the only one to remain calm and she spoke slowly and distinctly to all of them,

"Venus you may go and thank you kindly for having the courage to tell us, not a word to anyone mind you. Daniel, we should have the men we have caught back in for further questioning and perhaps drop Perkins's name in and see what sort of reaction we get."

"Perfectly correct my dear ,,,,.er Estelle"

Clothwood replied and going red at his slip of the tongue. Estelle raised an enquiring eyebrow
Joshua smiled to himself, there was clearly an attraction between the two but Clothwood was too down on himself to admit it and Estelle too much of a lady to make the first move.

"I think that I will take the air for an hour while you two actually talk to each other about something other than business."

Joshua left the two of them looking at each other wondering how to begin.

As Joshua returned from his walk an hour later he passed the window of his study, without meaning to spy he glanced in the window and saw Clothwood holding Estelle's hand as she leaned forward with her eyes closed and lips puckered for what Joshua guessed was the first of many kisses to come. He smiled to himself feeling on top of the world having just played Cupid.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Bridget looked around. A new tenant was scheduled to move into Rose Cottage, her old home where she had grown up with her mother and father. She had very fond memories of that cottage, and since she had been living at the manor, the place had become overgrown.

She had Rodrick prepare the trap and looked around for one of the young men to go with her to help clear away some of the grown up underbrush. She noticed a young man doing yard work over in the flower beds by the house windows.

"Excuse me!" She called out as she walked towards him. The young man started and turned and she smiled as Perkins looked at her.

"Perkins, I need your assistance. If you please."

"Certainly, Lady Lexford."

"I need you to drive me to Rose Cottage. We have a new tenant arriving and I need some things cleared for them."

Soon they were traveling down the road towards her old home. "We missed you at the celebration. I hope that you were lucky enough to get a plate upon your return."

"Yes Ma'am. It was delicious. What was the celebration?"

"The fact that Bathsheba was back with us." Rose Cottage appeared around the bend. "Here is Rose Cottage. Just pull up front. Oh, the rose bushes have taken over the place." Soon Bridget had Perkins cleaning up the outside while she gathered together things inside that she wanted to keep. She stopped for a moment when she discovered the family bible. Opening it, she turned to the page where the family tree was.

She had expected to never be married or have any children. Now her she was, married to a lord, no less, and expecting her first child.

She hummed as she busily worked to clean things up a bit while Perkins was outside pulling up brambles.

 

[cumnchat]

"Has anyone seen her ladyship?"

Joshua called to a group cleaning the courtyard, Rodrick appeared at the stable door,

"Yes Sir she's gone up to Rose Cottage to clear the garden of weeds and such for the new tenant."

"I have told her time and again to take care and to do nothing too strenuous in her condition."

"It's alright Sir, she has help she had Perkins drive her there in the trap, he's a good fellow Sir, always willing to 'elp."

Joshua almost turned white, he had wanted to warn her about their suspicions of him and now she was alone with him in the countryside.

"How long since they left Rodrick? It's urgent, I need to catch up with them quickly, be a good man and saddle up Lightning, I need the fastest steed."

Rodrick moved quickly and started saddling the prize stallion while Joshua ran to his study to tell Estelle and Clothwood. He burst in and found Daniel holding Estelle's turned up face to him and undoubtedly about to kiss her,

Daniel Clothwood let go of Estelle as Joshua burst in,

"I'm sorry Joshua we didn't expect you quite so soon and poor Estelle has a fly in,,,,,,,,"

Joshua cut him short and gasped, panic stricken.

"Never mind that, Bridget has gone off to Rose Cottage alone with Perkins, we have to arrest him now before he abducts her."

Daniel immediately became the calm professional upholder of the law and observed

"Arrest him? On what charge? We have no proof of any wrongdoing on his part, only suspicions, We will also show our hand and we will never find out who his Master is."

"But what about Bridget? If he touches a hair on her head I swear I will kill him."

"Like you did Isaac?"

Daniel looked keenly at Joshua as he spoke, looking for the slightest sign of guilt.

"That wasn't me."

Joshua replied quickly trying not to look at Estelle. Daniel nodded his head, satisfied that Joshua was telling the truth but he caught a flicker of Joshua's eyes towards Estelle.

"If you are so concerned about Bridget then by all means find her and bring her home but say nothing, NOTHING, to Perkins, we want him to believe he is not suspected."

Joshua saw the sense of this and nodded his agreement.

He rode like the wind to Rose Cottage fearing the the worst but when he arrived Perkins was working industriously in the garden and Bridget stood in the doorway, clutching what looked like a family bible to her breast.

Trying not to appear relieved that all was well he called out to Bridget,

"There you are my dear, you shouldn't disappear without telling anyone, but at least you had the good sense to have a man with you, i came for you because the dresses you bought in Dublin have arrived and I know how much you want to show Carrie,"

He dismounted and hurried to Bridget and gave her a passionate kiss,

"Perkins,,,,,, we will take the trap, when you have finished you may ride Lightning back to the Manor, ,,,,,,,,,,,slowly mind."

Joshua helped Bridget up into the trap and off they went, once out of earshot he said earnestly,

"Bridget my love you have no idea how I have feared for you this day."

 

[Opensesame54321]

Bridget stood in the doorway, her mind back to her childhood, watching her Mother carefully turn the pages of the Bible and explaining to her just who each entry in the precious book was, telling stories that were to be passed down of each person. Though she stood in the doorway looking off in the direction of Lexford, she didn't see the dust cloud approaching until Joshua dismounted and called out to her.

There you are my dear, you shouldn't disappear without telling anyone, but at least you had the good sense to have a man with you, i came for you because the dresses you bought in Dublin have arrived and I know how much you want to show Carrie

Suddenly she was in his arms, his kiss quite passionate, a surprise though not unwanted.

Perkins,,,,,, we will take the trap, when you have finished you may ride Lightning back to the Manor, ,,,,,,,,,,,slowly mind.

The young man nodded and Bridget pointed out the rambling rose bush that climbed the trellis on the side of the chimney. "Be careful to leave that rose bush, Perkins, otherwise we may not have a Rose Cottage." She smiled at him. "And thank you , Perkins, for all your work. It is much appreciated."

Once Joshua had helped her up into the trap, they headed off down the road back for home.

Bridget my love you have no idea how I have feared for you this day.

"But love, I took Perkins with me. He is a wonderful worker."

And with that, Joshua proceeded to tell her if their suspicions about the young man. She placed a hand over her pregnant belly.

"My dear, your child and I are fine." She leaned against him, touched by her husband's worry. Then something occurred to her. She had a puzzled expression on her face.

"Joshua, the first time that I saw him, he was sitting outside your study when you were in there with Clothwood. He said that he was catching his breath, and when I sent him to get the Doctor, he did not hesitate. But he did not return home until after the celebration was over. And today, I found him working outside the windows to your study. But he did not hesitate to come with me when I asked for his assistance."

 

[cumnchat]

They talked about Perkins most of the way home and surmised that Perkins was eavesdropping in the hope of hearing something he could report to his master. Joshua then broke the bad news to Bridget,

"I am sorry to tell you my love that Your dresses have not arrived from Dublin, I needed an excuse to come looking for you and not arouse Perkins's suspicions, but I do have some good news, there is another romance blossoming at the Manor, would you care to hazard a guess?"

He would not tell her and he teased her the rest of the way home but if she mentioned either a member of the police or the staff he merely said,

"You are warm my dear in your guesses but you have me hot under the collar, do you think we have time after tea to play other games?"

Laughing as he spoke and tickling her thigh through her dress.

Daniel and Estelle met them as they clattered into the courtyard and they were smiling and holding hands. Joshua crowed in triumph to Bridget,

"I knew you would never guess correctly so I claim the right to choose which game we play after tea"

An idea already forming in his mind.
They all went into the study and as Perkins was not about they felt free to discuss him openly.
Daniel was silent, deep in thought then he announced,

"I have a plan that will trap him and also may well lead us to his master. Let him overhear a titbit of information that would be of interest and then follow him to whoever he gives the information to."

They all agreed and took tea, Joshua becoming more and more insistent that they finish. When finally tea was finished Joshua took Bridget outside and blindfolded her and led her to a disused stable and helped her climb into the loft.

"We have not done this for a long time Bridget and if we wait too much longer you would not be able to climb up here, so........... Off with your dress, quickly my breeches are almost bursting"

 

[Opensesame54321]

She was pleasantly surprised to see Estelle and Clothwood holding hands upon their return to the Manor. Such a nice surprise! Once the four of them were ensconced in the study, and with Perkins busy working at Rose Cottage, the talk centered around him. They soon came up with a plan.

I have a plan that will trap him and also may well lead us to his master. Let him overhear a titbit of information that would be of interest and then follow him to whoever he gives the information to.

With that, they settled down to tea though Joshua was antsy, and as soon as it was over, he rushed her outside and quickly blindfolded her. Soon the smell of hay assailed her nose and she smiled as he helped her climb in the loft.

We have not done this for a long time Bridget and if we wait too much longer you would not be able to climb up here, so........... Off with your dress, quickly my breeches are almost bursting

She took the blindfold off and there was Joshua, quickly shedding his clothes. She slowly began to undress. Her stomach had a definite swell to it, though not unduly so and soon she stood before him wearing only her shoes and stockings. She noted that his cock fairly sprang from his breeches.

"Oh my, love, I do believe that you are in need of some relief." She got down on the hay, laying on her dress as she attempted to arrange herself in a provocative manner, but her stomach kept her from looking enticing.

She laughed at herself. "I am afraid that all you have here is an old married woman." She paused and blushed before looking him in the eyes. "But I love you fiercely, my husband."

 

[cumnchat]

Joshua couldn't keep his eyes off Bridget as she divested herself of her clothes and stood naked before him , well almost naked, retaining the stockings that he adored so much, when she spread her dress on the straw and attempted an enticing pose but bemoaned the fact that her swollen belly prevented it and she said jokingly.

' I am afraid that all you have here is an old married woman.

Then she blushed and said in her defence.

'But I love you fiercely, my husband.'

Joshua guffawed loudly sending the roosting pigeons fluttering in the rafters.

"And I adore you my love, every single inch of you, I loved you when you were just a skinny little thing but now you have some meat on your bones, you are very,,,,, what shall I say? ,,,,,,,,,,,,,, yes you are POSITIVELY RUBENESQUE, that is what you are, lots of delightful, enticing, plump curves in all the right places, that I shall take great delight in exploring."

He sat down beside her running his fingers through her copper red locks and began by lifting one plump breast at a time and suckling each ripe engorged nipple.

"I cannot wait to taste your milk that you will be feeding our little one, I just pray that he,,, or she, is not greedy and leaves enough for me"

He then proceeded to gently caress her swollen belly and spoke gently to the unborn baby inside,

"Now you be a good little one and do not kick your mother too hard and if I may ask you to desist altogether whilst Mommy and Daddy are playing"

He looked up and winked at her,

"I think you know where my next stop will be but don't be left out, I need some loving too."

Joshua laid Bridget on her back and spread her legs and after using his fingers to ensure she was fully aroused he sealed his lips over her glistening pussy lips and drank thirstily on her juices. It was not long before Bridget was bucking her hips and her hands tangled in his hair. When they were both sated and lay side by side breathing heavily, Joshua pointed to his cock, still hard and pointing to the sky

"Your turn next darling"

 

[cumnchat]

OOC Apologies, double post


Joshua couldn't keep his eyes off Bridget as she divested herself of her clothes and stood naked before him , well almost naked, retaining the stockings that he adored so much, when she spread her dress on the straw and attempted an enticing pose but bemoaned the fact that her swollen belly prevented it and said jokingly.

' I am afraid that all you have here is an old married woman.

Then she blushed and said in her defence.

'But I love you fiercely, my husband.'

Joshua guffawed loudly sending the roosting pigeons fluttering in the rafters.

"And I adore you my love, every single inch of you, I loved you when you were just a skinny little thing but now you have some meat on your bones, you are very,,,,, what shall I say? ,,,,,,,,,,,,,, yes RUBENESQUE, that is what byou are lots of enticing plump curves in all the right places, that I shall take great delight in exploring."

He sat down beside her and begann by lifting one plump breast at a time and suckling each ripe nipple.

"I cannot wait to taste your milk that you will feeding our little one, I just pray that he,,, or she, isn not greedy and leaves enough for me"

He then proceeded to gently caress her swollen belly and spoke gently to the unborn baby inside,

"Now you be a good little one and do not kick your mother too hard and if I may ask you to desist altogether whilst Mommy and Daddy are playing"

He looked up and winked at her,

"I think you know where my next stop will be but don't be left out, I need some loving too."

Joshua laid Bridget on her back and spread her legs and after using his fingers to ensure she was fully aroused he sealed his lips over her glistening pussy lips and drank thirstily on her juices. It was not long before Bridget was bucking her hips and her hands tangled in his hair. When they were both sated and lay side by side breathing heavily , Joshua pointed to his cock, still hard and pointing to the sky

"Your turn next darling"

 

[Opensesame54321]

She found it most endearing to watch Joshua talk to the unborn baby resting snugly in her belly. She knew that he would make a wonderful father.

Then he pressed his mouth to her sex and she was soon bucking and thrashing as his tongue and mouth drew her to a wild climax. Then once they had rested and gotten their breath back, Joshua pointed to his rampant cock, saying, Your turn next darling.

Now normally she would have gotten between his legs and, laying face down, proceeded to suck him good. But when she tried, her stomach would not bend as it once could and she could not lay on her stomach. Therefore, she found that the best way to please all was to lay on her side with the gentle swell of her stomach resting against Joshua leg as she began to suck and kiss his cock while her hand massaged his sac. It really did not take much attention before her husband groaned and was soon filling her mouth with his seed.

As she swallowed, she cleaned his member with her mouth before she snuggled up against him. "Just how many children is Lord Lexford hoping for?" She teased. "For I shall certainly look forward to having a large healthy family. I had always wished for brothers and sisters."

She ran her leg up the inside of his leg. "And I certainly enjoy the procreating bit." She placed his hand on the gentle swell. "This is a part of you and me growing inside here. I consider myself blessed, love." Her hand began stroking his manhood.

"Care to keep practicing on the procreating bit, just to stay in shape. So to speak?" She smiled at him as she stroked his member.

 

[cumnchat]

Joshua smirked gleefully to himself, Bridget was clearly feeling rather naughty and as it was barely thirty minutes since they had climbed into the loft they had plenty of time, and no one would be looking for them.
Her tiny hand encircled his firm rigid member so far as it could and slid along the length of him, root to tip and back down again, keeping him aroused, her eyes sparkled naughtily as she pulled back his foreskin and squeezed a creamy drop of precum from the slit.

'Care to keep practicing on the procreating bit, just to stay in shape. So to speak?"

"Of course my love, for as wise men say 'practice makes perfect' let us make ourselves comfortable and we will begin."

He untangled Bridget and moved around the loft shifting bales of straw and making a ledge on which Bridget could rest her heavy breasts and arms as she knelt with her pale round buttocks towards him. it was so arranged that he did not need to kneel but could take her from behind in a standing position.

"Up you go darling and no diddling with yourself I do enjoy that myself."

He chuckled as he helped Bridget into position and stood behind her admiring her voluptuous curves.

"I understand that you are well lubricated my dear but if you want to feel part of it and not just used why don't you stimulate your nipples, I mean they will play an important part of our little one's upbringing."

He moved in closer and let his hot purple cock head push between the soft smooth cheeks of her rear. Gently he opened her legs and his goal was in sight, a bright pink glistening slit that was already leaking her juices. Joshua took a firm hold on her hips and teased the outer petals of her pink flower until she wiggled and indicated she wanted him inside her.
Although Leslie had told him that there was no danger to the baby Joshua was cautious and slid in slowly and easily, Bridget's' internal walls embracing his cock as he stretched her and slid deeper. They soon fell into a slow satisfying rhythm, Bridget moving with him. There was nothing urgent about their love making just two people enjoying the wonder of ultimate union. True to his word Joshua's hands moved from Bridget's ample hips and with one hand supporting the baby in her belly he found her clitoris already distended and swollen hard, peeking coyly from its hood. With a knowing smile he took the head of it and pulled it out a full two inches and rubbed his fingers along the length as Bridget had done to him earlier. There was a loud,

"EEK!"From Bridget, as she climaxed in waves over his cock and he replied in kind. Filling her to the brim.

"Enough practice for today I think my dear although after supper could provide an opportune moment."

8888888888888888888888888888888888888888

After they had dressed and they were walking back to the Manor, Joshua asked Bridget if she thought it would be a good idea to task Silas with watching Perkins and seeing where he goes and who he sees, pointing out that he is expert at keeping out of sight and an excellent tracker.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Resting up across the hay bales, Bridget pulled and squeezed her nipples as her husband began making love to her. It was soft and gentle and lovely and his hand slipped around to cradle her swelling tummy and his other hand slipped down and found her little love button. She didn't know what he did but suddenly she was screaming in pleasure as she came over and over again while he came inside her.

*****

Carrie was down stairs when the boxes were delivered. She took one look at the names where they came from to knew that they were the clothes that Bridget had made for herself by the seamstress while on her honeymoon. She told some of the men to come with her and bring the boxes. The men were quick and she knocked on the master bedroom. It was quiet and she double checked to make sure that it was empty before allowing the men in to stack the boxes over to one side.

After they left, she started to follow but noticed that the top box was smaller and addressed to herself. Before the wedding, she would not have been able to read her own name. But now, she proudly took the box and headed for her bedroom. The box was not that heavy but it was bulky and she almost dropped it. Out in the hall on the way to the bedroom, she asked Mary to find Dougan and ask him to come to their bedroom.

Inside, she carefully opened the package. The box contained a beautiful green wrapper. It was like the lavender one that Bridget wore. Carrie had been a bit envious when she first saw Bridget wearing it. Now, she had her own wrapper and thought that it would definitely be very comfortable to wear, now that she was getting quite bulky.

The door opened and Dougan entered.

"Did you need something, love?"

"Look! Look at what that sweet Bridget sent me from Ireland. Isn't it beau...ohhhhh!" She suddenly stopped, clutching her belly. Dougan rushed to her, worried.

"Carrie! What's the matter? Should I go get the Doctor? Are you okay? What can I do?"

She took his hand and placed it on her swollen belly. Dougan's eyes grew wide in shock and surprise. "What is that?"

"That, my dear silly goose, is yer chil' sayin' 'ello." She smiled at him as he looked in wonder at her stomach. "Unless yew fought that Oi 'ad jest been over eaten these couple uv months."

There was a flurry of thumps against Dougan's hand and for a full five minutes he stood there laughing in wonder at each thump and kick the baby made. When at last the baby seemed to have grown quiet, Dougan took Carrie in his arms and was quite amorous in his delight at having just been contacted by his child.

 

[cumnchat]

Joshua was full of himself after his success with Bridget's love button, until recently he had thought that what peeked from the hood was the full extent of it but one day out of curiosity he had looked through Leslie's medical books and read that the clitoris as he discovered it was called was in fact much larger and longer and once coaxed into the open, properly stimulated, was a source of great pleasure for the lady concerned.

They took tea alone in the dining room and Joshua teased Bridget mercilessly about the force and volume of her orgasm, saying that she must find it invigorating to be taken among the hay rather than their bed.

Towards the end Carrie came in and wrapped her arms around Bridget thanking her profusely for her gift, and informing her that all her boxes were stacked in their bedroom.

"And what about me Carrie? Don't I deserve some thanks, after all I did pay for it."

Joshua pretended to be offended at being left out but his smile belied his words. Carrie immediately turned to him and after receiving an approving nod from Bridget, she sat crossways on his knees and kissed him heartily,

"Oi thank you whole 'eartedly for yer generosity Sir, oi 'ope that is thanks enuff."

Carrie went back to Bridget and said loudly enough for all to hear while proudly patting her fat swollen belly.

"My little one's been letting me know 'e's awake, 'e's been kicking me nigh on all day, but oi think 'e's settled down now, won't be long afore yours is kicking, Bridget."

"You go and rest Carrie you have been a treasure to us both and I will remember that kiss for ever"

Carrie blushed and uncharacteristically bobbed a curtsey and left them alone again.

"You'll no doubt be wanting to try on your new dresses my love, so that leaves me to my own devices, you come down for dinner though."

 

[Opensesame54321]

After Carrie left, Bridget got up and kissed him before heading upstairs. She saw one of the girls along the way and asked her to find Jean and ask her to come to the master bedroom. It was only a minute before the young girl arrived and the two spent the next couple of hours opening boxes and oohing and aahing over each outfit.

The first box contained an absolutely heavenly dress made of filmy soft white material with gold bees and dots embroidered on it. It was so soft and looked striking with her long auburn hair.

The next box contained a wonderfully striking dress in a rich brown-black brocade. It was richly embroidered with red, pink and white flowers and pink scrollwork. With the black lace decorating the cuffs, this would be perfect this fall and winter for dressy occasions.

Next came a heavily embroidered jacket of cream with gold and green and sweet ribbon bows that she could tie. This would go with most of her new outfits, plus some of her old ones.

The next outfit revealed was a cream colored dress and jacket with border embroidery. The scene at the bottom of the skirt reminded her of pictures that she had seen from India. She thought that Joshua would appreciate her nod to his past.

The last box held a gold sateen dress with matching wrap. Compared to the other outfits, this outfit had relatively simple border on the skirt and the wrap had a pleated ruffle around its edge.

All of the outfits would accomplish what Joshua had asked her to do. He would be able to help her dress and undress if needed. And they would carry her through her pregnancy.

Jean put away each outfit after it was tried on and approved by Bridget.

"So, Jean, when shall we hear of a betrothal between you and the Doctor?"

Jean blushed and shook her head. "Oi don't know. Sometimes Oi thinks that 'e'll ask, and sometimes Oi thinks 'e won't. Oi loves 'im fiercely, but Oim not sure wether it's love or lust on 'is side." The young girl changed the subject. "My da is supposed to arrive 'ere tomorrow. Oi needs ta make sure that 'is room is ready. Do yew know wich it is?"

Bridget smiled at Jean. "No, go ask Dougan. I am sure that Joshua has talked to him about it. Run along. I won't need you any more until time for bed."

Jean thanked her and ran off in search of Dougan, leaving a smiling Bridget stroking her gently swelling belly.

 

[cumnchat]

Joshua sat alone in his study, thinking, he still had the warm glow that he always got after making love to Bridget and he felt he should do something spectacular for her to show how much he loved her. Spectacular yes but a firework display would be over in just a few minutes and soon forgotten, no, he needed something more permanent, a reminder of a special moment in their lives together.
Suddenly he grabbed a sheet of paper and a quill and began scribbling furiously, then he found some souvenir postcards from Ireland and searched for the one he wanted. He folded the sheet of paper around it and put it away safely in his desk drawer.

It was almost time for dinner and didn't have time to change so he remained as he was and apologised to his guests, Daniel and Estelle, a handsome couple he thought and it was all thanks to him. Leslie and Jean again perfectly suited but why had that fool of a doctor not yet asked Jean to marry him? He knew from the way she looked at him that she wouldn't hesitate.

The conversation centred on the girls and what to do with them and of course turned to Perkins.

"I hope I have not jumped the gun here but I did mention to Bridget earlier that perhaps Silas could keep an eye on master Perkins and report on where he goes and who he sees"

Everyone murmured their agreement except for Estelle who voiced her concern that Silas might feel he was being used.

"I do not see why he should feel that way, after all he is in the employ of Joshua and should do as he is asked without question"

"It is not quite as simple as that Daniel Silas is in possession of certain information that could be damaging, while I don't believe he would ever reveal it I think Estelle has a point so as Estelle knows him best perhaps she should be the one to ask him"

Finally they all agreed, as it was now getting late they all went their separate ways to bed.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Estelle walked outside with Daniel while Rodrick saddled the man's horse. She was staying the nite here, as Joshua and Bridget had extended that hospitality to her. They had done the same to Daniel, but he had said no thank you. Tomorrow, digging would resume at Isaac's house and he needed to be up and ready early for that. He and two other men would be working on their days off.

"In the brief time that I have known you, I know that something bothers you. What is it? You know that I will help all that I can." His hand reached out and took hers.

Estelle hesitated. "Daniel, I can not say at this time just what it is. I need to think things through, all right? Will you give me a day or two and then I will tell you. I promise."

Daniel nodded his understanding and took her in his arms. His kiss was a bit tentative and sweet but she enjoyed it just the same. She saw him off and went back inside. She felt that she needed to talk things over with Joshua. They had sworn everything to secrecy. But she couldn't fall for the man of law and order and know that if he ever heard about what she had done, it would hurt him, and her too.

She checked in the study but all was dark. He must have gone to bed already. She would have to try and catch him tomorrow.

She started up the stairs and ran into Jean heading down the stairs. The young girl looked harried and she's was surprised to see her there.

"Jean, isn't Leslie spending the night here? I thought that you would be with him."

"Ohhhhhh. Oi jest need ta get sumpthin fer me Da. 'e arrives t'morrow an' Oi wants everythin' perfect."

"Dear, you will have time tomorrow." She turned the young thing around and sent her back up the stairs. "Go find Leslie and let him calm your nerves."

Jean listened and turned to head back upstairs. Now if Estelle could just follow her own advice. It was a restless night for her and sleep and her were strangers.

 

[cumnchat]

Joshua woke early, feeling refreshed and eager for the day ahead but he took a few minutes to prop himself on one elbow and look at Bridget sleeping beside him. He sighed, she was so beautiful, her face serene and calm with her auburn locks fanned out over the pillow and her hand protectively on her swollen belly. He felt so blessed. He reached out and covered her hand that rested on her belly and leaned over and kissed her sweet sensuous lips. She murmured in her sleep and he was tempted to wake her for a session of tongue jousting but decided against it, he would let her sleep.

He dressed quietly and went down to the kitchen for breakfast.

"Good morning,"

He called out to cook, gently tapping her plump backside,

"Just coffee, toast and jam if you please"

Cook blushed and thought to herself "Master's in a jolly mood this morning, I wonder if he and Lady Lexford have been,,,,,,,,?"

"How about Lady Lexford? Will she be down shortly?"

"I don't think so, if she hasn't put in an appearance in the next hour perhaps you will be good enough to send her a breakfast tray"

Joshua sat and ate his breakfast as the household came to life, men and women coming and going about their business and eating as they worked.

"Is it like this every morning? It cannot be good to eat as they do, I think that we should have a set breakfast time say from six thirty to seven thirty so everyone can sit down and enjoy their breakfast. Can you manage that?"

"Of course oi cin manage it. It'll be much appreciated Sir"
Cook was indignant that he should think she couldn't manage.

When Joshua had finished he went to his study and retrieved the sheet of paper and postcard from the previous evening and had Rodrick saddle him a mare to go into town.

Once in town he went first to a stone mason with a good reputation for honesty and quality of work. He spent a good two hours with the mason discussing his requirements, finally leaving with the words,

"So it will be ready in a week's time and perfect I trust?"

"It'll be ready just as you requested Sir, my word on it."

The mason replied, touching his cap.

His next stop was at a builder's that had carried out repairs at the Manor in the past and Joshua knew to be reliable. Joshua spent even more time with Seth Grabble the builder. His final words,

"You can begin digging this week, then other materials will be ready one week from now and then three more days you say? Excellent."

Finally leaving in mid afternoon and arriving back at the Manor in time for tea, where Bridget was fretting over where he had been.

"'Tis of no concern but all will be revealed soon."

Joshua stubbornly refused to say anymore.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Jean was awake at the crack of dawn, and quickly went into a tizzy, dropping her shoes and tripping over them while knocking over a little table beside the chair. The commotion promptly woke Leslie up and he started out of bed thinking that he was under attack. Instead, he found his dear Jean on the floor, naked and rubbing her shoulder where it had hit the table.

"Jean, dear, are you hurt?" He rushed to her, worried.

"Only me pride!" She started to get up but instead crumpled on the floor and promptly burst into tears.

"What is wrong, dear?" He went to check out her shoulder.

"Oi-Oi-Oi wanted everyfing ta be perfect fer me Da!" She cried into the carpet.

"Isn't it?" He couldn't think what could possibly be wrong. The dear woman had been such a flurry of work and worry these past couple of days.

She shook her head that rested on her arms, her face still buried in the rug. When she finally lifted her face, tears ran down her fair cheeks. "Oi've fergotten 'ow ta walk!"

Laughing, Leslie stood up and picked Jean up in his arms, carrying her back to bed. He pitched her toward the center of the bed and watched as a squealing Jean landed prettily on target. Jumping in bed beside her, he managed to get there just in time to stop her as she sought to scramble back out again.

"Oi needs ta fix fings fer me Da's arrival."

He clamped an arm over her waist and pinned her to the bed. "You're not going anywhere. You are under a doctor's care. Your Da does not arrive on the train until 1:00. Right now, it is barely morning and I think that you can see that you have more pressing needs to attend to." He grinned at her. "When the time comes, I'm sure that Joshua will let us take the carriage to pick up your father and his belongings."

And with that, Leslie climbed between her legs and proceeded to take Jean's mind off of her father and her worries.

 

[cumnchat]

It seemed that Bridget had forgiven him for his disappearance the day before and her hormones were telling her something as she took hold of his morning glory and she heaved herself up with some difficulty to sit astride him and guided him to her waiting wet entrance. Grinning like a Cheshire Cat he ran his hands up her naked body and cupped each heavy pendulous breast, weighing them thoughtfully in his hands and rolling her thick hard nipples in his fingers.

"I DO like your nipples like this my love, perhaps it would be a good idea to keep you pregnant all the time."

As Bridget rocked her hips and clenched on his shaft her fat rounded belly rested on his stomach and he smiled benignly.

"Methinks our little one is enjoying the ride, don't you my sweet?"

Bridget appeared to tire quickly and disengaged herself from him before either of them climaxed and she hurried to the bathroom,

"So that's why you were in such a hurry." He called out good-humouredly as he heard Bridget's tinkling splashes.

****************************************************************************************************************************************

Joshua had just finished his breakfast and was laughing and joking with Cook when Dougan came in and informed him that a Mr. Seth Grabble was in the courtyard with a dozen men and their shovels.

"EXCELLENT, Tell him I will be with him in one moment,"

He went to his study and took the sheet of paper and postcard from yesterday and went to greet the builder.

"My goodness Mr. Grabble you don't let the grass grow under your feet do you?"

"No toime loike the present Sir an' toime is money. All these men were outta work an' are grateful fer anything that comes their way."

"Well do a good job for me and I will spread the word what good fellows they are as well as paying generously for their time and effort."

Without a moment's thought he jumped up on the large wagon they had arrived on and gave the driver directions where he was to go. On the way he went over it all again with Mr. Grabble. When they arrived he gave Mr. Grabble the postcard and asked him not to lose it and if by chance anyone from the Manor asked what he was doing he was to say nothing.

Joshua whistled merrily to himself as he walked back to the Manor.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Estelle had a hard time finding Joshua. Everywhere she went looking for him, she had just missed him. The man was certainly busy today. She knew that Daniel and the men that were volunteering their time were busy digging over at Isaac's house and she really felt that she would have to come clean with that while nasty business. And though it was an accident, she may still have to serve time.

Dougan was at the front door when she came down the stairs.

"Dougan, do you know where Joshua is?"

"I believe that the Master has left with some workmen."

She glanced away, frustrated. "Do you know when he will return?"

"No, ma'am. Though I suspect that it should not be too long. May I help you with something? "

She touched his arm in gratitude. "When you see him, would you let him know that I need to speak with him privately. In his study, if you please."

"Yes ma'am"

"Thank you. I will be upstairs with Carrie giving her a reading lesson. I'll be in your rooms with her."

Dougan nodded and Estelle headed upstairs where Carrie waited for her lesson.

*****

Carrie sat at the desk in their bedroom awaiting Estelle. Ever since the little one had started moving, the baby had become very active. And she found that she seemed to have a craving for pickles and pickled eggs. Just the thought made her mouth water and as soon as as this lesson was over, she would sneak down to the kitchen and see if Cook might have something set aside for her.

Once Estelle arrived, she began her work. She could tell that her teacher had her mind on other things but Carrie figured that it was none of her business.

 

[cumnchat]

The Manor was a hive of activity when Joshua returned and he was soon surrounded by people wanting his signature for this or that. In the end he bellowed in frustration,

" STOP!,,,For goodness sake I am but one person which is why I have delegated some of you to oversee a certain part of the household with Dougan in overall charge so any queries should be directed to him. Thankyou all."

Dougan stood next to him and thanked him for reminding the household that he was the one they should take their problems to.

"Two things though Sir, Mrs. Pendragon wishes to speak privately with you in your study, can I tell her a time when you will be available?
She sounded urgent Sir she is teaching Carrie at present but will not be more than fifteen minutes"

"Very well Dougan I will see her as soon as she has finished Carrie's lessons, what was the other matter?"

"It may have slipped your mind Sir but Jean's father arrives today on the one o' clock train and she and Leslie were wondering if they could take the pony and trap to meet him."

"The silly giggle sticks of course they may, and Dougan,,, you call me and Bridget as soon as they are in sight I want us to be the first to greet him."

Joshua sat in his favourite chair and treated himself to tot of dark Jamaican rum.

"Come in Estelle, take a seat." He called out in response to the knock on the study door.

"Now what seems to be the problem you are not,,,,,,,,,,?" He nodded towards Estelle's belly.

Estelle gave a wan smile,

"No Joshua, I am not pregnant, if I were it would be easier to deal with, for one thing Daniel and I are not quite at that stage yet, close but not yet."

Suddenly concerned Joshua leaned forward and took his one time lover's hands in his,

"What is it then Estelle my dear that rests so uneasily on your shoulders? How can I help?"

Estelle's eyes filled with tears as she sobbed,

"I love him Joshua, I love him to distraction but I cannot keep my burden of guilt from him, it wouldn't be fair, and if he were to find out after we,,,,,,,,,,,, er,,,, later, what would he think of me. I want you to tell him Joshua, all of it, the whole truth as you know it."

Joshua was so taken aback he couldn't speak for a minute or so then he gathered his thoughts.

"You realise what you are saying, what you are doing, putting so much at risk? Your love, his love, your future happiness and if the policeman in him surfaces maybe your freedom."

"I understand all that Joshua but at least he will know that I could not live a lie with him."

"Very well, I can see that you are set upon this, I will send word to him to come to the Manor tomorrow."

Estelle wiped her tears and composed herself leaving Joshua in a contemplative mood.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Jean was a bundle of nerves as she sat next to Leslie in the trap.

"Dew yew fink that maybe we should go a bit faster? Oi would 'ate fer 'im ta fink that we were not coming. Do Oi look all right? Oi 'ope that 'e will be 'appy 'ere. Oi wants 'im ta be 'appy." The woman was so nervous that he was afraid that she would literally take flight.

"Jean, love, just stop and take a breath before your heart jumps out of your breast."

Just to please her, however, Leslie did pick up the pace a bit and they were soon at the station. Waiting. For the train. And Jean's worry started all over again, though now it was worry that something had happened to the train. Leslie just grinned and shook his head.

The sound of the train whistle in the distance perked her up and it was only after Jean saw her father step off the train that she finally stopped worrying as she yelled out "DA!" and rushed into her father's arms. Leslie shook the man's hand and then loaded his luggage into the trap. He could tell that the Irishman was tired. The trip had probably been hard for the man. He was younger than the man and it has been a bit rough for him when they had made the rush return trip.

Soon they were heading back to Lexford with Jean worrying over her Da.

*****

Daniel looked at the two men busy digging behind the house. They had been working steady for over an hour and had so far found nothing. The rain from the past couple of days had made the ground a bit softer but it was still not that easy going.

"All right, Wilson. You take a break and I'll go in your stead."

"Yes, sir." The young man climbed out of the small ditch.

"Wilson, we're here in our own time. You don't need to call me sir." Daniel took the shovel and switched places with Wilson, digging into the soil.

"Yes sir." Wilson answered and Daniel gave a slight shake of his head. The only sound for the next 20 minutes or so was the sound of their shovels biting into the earth and their grunts as they lifted shovelful after shovelful of dirt. The metal shovel scraping across bone seemed too loud.

"Damn!" Daniel swore under his breath. He had hoped that they would not find more.

 

[cumnchat]

Joshua was pondering over Estelle's decision to tell Daniel of her part in Isaac's death, would he be officious and arrest her, or let sleeping dogs lie,? It would depend a great deal on how deep his feelings were for Estelle and Joshua decided that out of loyalty to Estelle he would plead her case.

"They's on their way Sir, oi've told 'er Ladyship an she'll meet you in t'courtyard"

Dougan interrupted his thoughts and for a brief moment he had no idea what Dougan was talking about, then he remembered Jean's Pa was coming.

He quickly went to the courtyard just as the pony and trap entered through the archway, spying Bridget he went to her side and put his arm round her now sizable waist.

"Jean will be mightily pleased to have her Pa here with her so she can watch over him, they have been apart for so long"

Bridget nodded her agreement, "And it's all down to you, Joshua, he would never have come if you had not offered him work, he is a proud man and not one to accept charity "

Brian climbed down stiffly from the trap and went to offer his hand to Jean but Leslie had his hands around her slim waist and swung her easily to the ground.

Joshua stepped forward extending an arm for a warm handshake.

"Welcome to Lexford Manor, I hope you had a good journey although it was tiring I can see, Jean will show you to your quarters and help you settle in then this evening you must join us for supper. Jean has told me, in secret of course, that you are not a wine drinker but I have managed to find a supplier of Guinness so you will not feel too far from your homeland."

Brian's eyes twinkled at Joshua's remark, he had feared he would not be able to find his favourite tipple this far from home. It had still not struck him that now, he was home.
Bridget stepped forward and gave him a hug and a kiss on the cheek that had him blushing.

"You are indeed most welcome Brian, we will introduce everyone in time but for now let me introduce Dougan he's the estate manager, anything you need to know ask him, his good wife Carrie is the Manor gossip, anything you shouldn't know she will."
Bridget's eyes twinkled merrily as she spoke about Carrie so that no one could take her words seriously.
Joshua broke in smiling genially, hugging Bridget to him in a show of affection.

"When you have finished tarnishing the reputation of my mistress we must not forget Rodrick, you will be working closely with him as he is the head groom"

The greetings completed, the gathering dispersed and Joshua waited for the telling off that he was sure would be coming his way for saying that Carrie was his mistress.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Bridget could see that Brian was quite tired, though the man was obviously happy to be close again to his daughter.

When you have finished tarnishing the reputation of my mistress we must not forget Rodrick, you will be working closely with him as he is the head groom"

Once Brian's welcome to Lexford was complete, Bridget told the Irishman,

"We will leave you in your daughter's capable hands. She can show you to your new lodgings. We will hope that you will be very happy here. Welcome to Lexford."

She smiled at the man as Jean led her father off towards the house with the Doctor and Dougan following behind carrying Brian's belongings. Grabbing Joshua's hand, she led him towards his study.

"You, sir, come with me. We need to have a talk."

Once ensconced in the study with the door closed, she leaned back against it, arms crossed and an eyebrow raised in question.

"Now, just how long has this affair been going on?" His feigned confusion made her laugh. "Oh, don't try to get out of it. You just as much admitted it in front of her husband. And Dougan..." She crossed over to him, shaking her finger at him as she backed him into a corner, pretending to be angry. "Now, you listen to me, and you listen good. Don't you ever do that again, do you understand? I am your one and only mistress, have you got that clear? And I don't share!" She laughed as she fell into his arms.

"Beside, with this business with Isaac, something like that might not be the best thing to joke about. I heard that they are digging out at his house today. I worry about what they will find and I worry that some poor lost souls still lie out there, lost without a proper grave."

She laid her head against his chest. Something had been bothering her and she finally decided to broach the subject.

"Dear, They need to be buried in holy ground. What happened to them was not their fault. Can we have created on the grounds a sanctified cemetery for those poor unfortunate ones? They deserve it." She knew that he knew just who 'They' were.