The Call of Duty (Closed for Pen an Dink and myself)

[Lady_Mornington]

The Call of Duty (Closed)

"This is absolutely wonderful!"

Caroline had to restrain herself from clapping her hands, to the obvious amusment of Mama who was standing in close attendance, after all it was the first ball she had been allowed to attend, and she loved every second of it. The way the men carried themselves in their scarlet tunics adorned with gold and the women displaying such immaculate grace. She fervently hoped that she also was able to act in such a dignified manner. Straightening her back and trying to assume the same look of bored good-will as Mama.

"Try and behave now!"

Mama, or Lady Anne Henderson as the rest of her guests knew her, gave Caroline a slight reproach as she was unable to wipe the broad smile from her face. And why should she? It was her first formal and she was intent on enjoying it as much as possible. She had already noticed how some of the younger officers had smiled as she had made her entrance, and she hoped that the good looking Cornet from the Light Dragoons would ask her to dance.

Looking to where her father, the Colonel Sir David Henderson, was busy conversing with some fellow high-ranking officers. His presence dominating the group. Caroline had always marvelled how well her parents matched eachother. Papa with his fiery temper and bulky frame and Mama's quiet yet commanding demeanour. She hoped that she would find a husband like that, and be as happy as her parents obviously were.

Had Caroline been more aware of politics she'd probably noticed that there was a certain air of apprehension in the room. Papa had even voiced his doubts about the coming asignment of his regiment. They were supposed to embark for Copenhagen, in attempt to coerce the Danish government to hand over their fleet in what His Britannic Majesty King George III and His government had declared to be protective custody. It was considered among most of the men in the room to amount to nothing more than an act of piracy. Denmark was for all intents and purposes a neutral country, but as Britain now found herself pitted against Bonaparte's France there was little room for chivalry. Should the French lay their hands on the ships of the Danish navy, Britain's supremacy on the seas would be threatend.

The 33:d was designated to be part of the army that would, if the Danes refused to see sense, have to fight their way to the navy currently harboured in Copenhagen. Not that they seemed overly concerned about the resistance. The 33:d having fought both in Flanders and India, and under the leadership of Sir Arthur Wellesley they had been victorious.

Caroline, did however not concern herself with politics, she was to busy being throughly enthralled by the grand spectacle of the ball. Smiling and giving Papa a small wave, and instantly receiving a stern glance from Mama. Frowning but only momentarily as she saw an officer that looked rather out of place among the others. He was tall and his uniform did not display the lavish adornments like those of his colleagues. Caroline was informed enough to discern that he was a lieutanant, but it struck her as odd given that he was probably in his late twenties.

"Mama" she leaned closer and lowering her voice to a whisper "who is that gentleman?"

Mama craned her neck trailing her icy stare to the officer in question. Almost sneering as she laid eyes on him.

"That, my dear, is not a gentleman!" turning to look at Caroline and lowering her voice as imparting some horrible secret "Mister Nicholas Edmonds was raised from the ranks you see. Some gutter-filth I believe"

Mama was such a snob, Caroline decided, as she turned and gave Mr Edmonds a brilliant smile

"Then why is he invited Mama?" her question innocently phrased but she knew that it would unsettle Mama and Caroline found it quite amusing to see her perfect facade momentarily shattered.

Lady Anne gave her a stern look but decided that she could just as well be told the truth to the matter "Your father indulges him. I cannot see why but alas I have no say in such matters." Placing her arm on Caroline's "And you will do well to stay clear of him is that understood"

Caroline sighed but vowed secretly to speak to the reputable Mister Edmonds as soon as the opportunity presented itself.

 

[pen_an_dink]

Lieutenant Edmonds was uncomfortable, extremely uncomfortable. He stood ramrod stiff close to the exit and waited. He occasionally glanced at the ‘old man’, the Colonel, more out of habit than anything else. He had become so accustomed to checking on him, with regards to his safety, his comfort, his needs, that he did it now without thought. In a soldier’s way he loved ‘the old man.’

The Colonel was at present enmeshed in an animated conversation with a bevy of high-ranking officers. Edmonds had naturally heard rumors of the Danish fleet, the king’s edict and the whispers that the 33rd would be called into action in the lowlands; but politics to him were regimental orders not the verbose pronouncements of the House of Commons, or House of Lords. Let the women and civilians dabble in rumors. ‘The old man’s’ crusty orders served as all the politics he needed or cared for.

Lt. Nicholas Edmonds was a soldier’s soldier. He had come up through the ranks: each promotion, a promotion of merit. Therefore, he was held in high esteem by the rank and file but often snubbed by the commissioned ‘gentlemen’ and half-pay reserves. Toy soldiers, the men called the majority of them. From his personal history, Edmonds carried more than a regular soldier’s abhorrence for the peerage. For all except the Colonel who was the closest man to a father that Nicholas had ever known. The Colonel, who had forced Sgt. Edmonds to accept a commission after his heroics at Seringapatam. After that incident, the ‘old man’ had kept Edmonds close by his side and had personally taken on the subaltern’s education and refinement. Nicholas digested the refinements grudgingly out of respect for the Colonel.

His disgust with 'fine gentleman' was indeed a personal affair. He was born and raised in East London, the bastard son of an unnamed “gentleman.” His mother took the “kind sir’s” identity with her to the grave. Nicholas blamed them all for his abusive, orphaned childhood. Their pretentious manners and popinjay dress sickened him.

The Colonel, however, had insisted that he attend this regimental ball, yet he just stood stoically by the door: waiting, waiting for the final guests to arrive, waiting for the formal procession to be done with, waiting for his chance to slip outside unnoticed. He intended spend the best part of the night smoking ‘chum’ with Sgt. Hallard who was on duty at the door. He would make sure the old man saw him occasionally then he’d skip out again to be with 'real' soldiers.

As the remaining guests filed in, the Colonel’s wife and daughter were announced into the hall. He had of course heard the old man speak of his Caroline with a father’s doting affection. He had seen the miniature of her that he carried constantly. Portraits lie, Edmonds knew. But in this case ... in this case ... it fell short of the mark. Caroline was breathtaking, vibrant, quick, saucy. Nicholas was fascinated and drank her in from the moment she arrived. The mother’s disdainful glance rapidly brought his boots back to earth. A lusty scullery maid would be his match. “Don’t even venture down that path. Not even in your dreams my bucko,” he advised himself. The old man’s daughter was meant for a life, which Nicholas could only imagine. Still and all, he could look. It was like looking at a fine painting, stunning but untouchable.

He looked around at the junior officers preening and strutting as she settled in and he slipped out in disgust for a pipe and a chat. Sgt. Hallard would bring him back to reality.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

She had imagined what it would be like to attend a ball, but nothing could have prepared her for the real thing. It was purely wonderful. The Cornet of the Light Dragoons had courteously asked her for the first dance, and receiving the slightest of nods from Mama, she had accepted.

Cornet Charles Vivian had proved to be a very skilled cavallier, leading her through the intricate steps, his hand placed lightly at the small of her back. He was indeed a very handsome man, she thought. But then again there were so many handsome men in attendance tonight. Mama had informed her, in no uncertain terms, that she must show some discrimination when accepting the cards handed to her. It wouldn't do to prance away with just any subalteran officer. Cornet Vivian had barely passed the test, being the second cousin twice removed of the redoubtable Lieutanant Colonel Sir Hussey Vivian, thus meeting the high standards Lady Anne placed on evey young gentleman aiming to court her daughter.

Thanking him for the dance and kindly declining his offer to fetch her some wine, instead returning to Mama who by now had been joined by Papa. Sir David who earlier had seemed to be in rather a foul mood, positively beamed as she curtseyed her greeting and was rewarded with a kiss to her cheek.

"You look lovely my dear" he smiled at her as he finished his glass "and I have understood that there is no gentleman obliged to you for the next dance."

He gave her a conspiratorical wink as he offered her his arm. Papa had always disregarded protocoll in his relation to Caroline. Perhaps it was prompted by the fact that he had spent so much time marching, fighting the King's enemies in America and India, or the fact that in Caroline he saw some of his own traits. The natural curiosity as well as the determination and the sharp mind. He had doted on her, bestowing on her both his affection and the best education he could offer.

Placing his left arm around her slender waist as the orchestra launched into a waltz. It was the height of fashion still and he had employed an Austrian dancing-master in order that Caroline might learn the intricacies of it.

Being lead through the turns and spins by his secure hands, Caroline felt elated. She knew that they would be the centre of attention. Another one of Sir David's quirkes, offering his second dance not to the Lieutanant-Colonel Williams's wife but rather to his daughter. As per usual Papa paid no heed to the talks and the tutting about his antics. Instead he focused his attention to Caroline giving her his most radiant smile.

"I hope you are enjoying yourself my dear. These functions have a tendency to grow remarkably dull. Yet I cannot muster the courage to go against your Mother's orders" giving her another wink as he gently turned her in rhytm with the music.

"I am Papa, I'm so happy I got the chance to attend" sensing that they where in cahoots now she smiled and raised the issue that had preyed on her mind. "Is it true that you raised Lieutenant Edmonds from the ranks?" Wondering what the man could have done to incur such a favour with him. Papa was not one for yes-men, nor was he radical enough to go against the established conventions of the class-based society.

"Oh it's a long story my dear, but to cut it short; Had not Lieutenant Edmonds shown such courage as he did at Seringapatam I would not have been here to dance with you." His features solemn at the recognition of the act of bravery performed by Edmonds.

Caroline's eyes widened in astonishment. She knew of course that the possibility of death was always present for a soldier, but she never would have thought that Papa would have been in such peril. Surely there was no enemy who would pose a serious threat to him? Then again, if Papa admitted as much, then Lieutanant Edmonds must have been very brave indeed. She braced herself before speaking again, remembering Mama's words to stay clear of the 'gutter-filth'.

"I would very much like to meet Lieutanant Edmonds Papa. If nothing else to thank him for saving your life." She smiled again, hoping he would acceed to her request.

Sir David gave her a bemused look as the dance drew to a close. He was well aware of Anne's views, but then again Caroline had a point, and courtesey was a virtue that Sir David valued.

"Yes that would be a good idea, but don't expect him to dance though. I think that is a bit beyond the good Mister Edmonds."
He scanned the room for Edmonds, but the man was nowhere to be found. Summoning another of the lieutanants, asking him to fetch the former.

Giving Caroline another smile before joining his wife. He loved Anne, but sometimes her rigid adherence to convention proved taxing. Sir David prided himself with being a soldier first and foremost, and as such he could not afford the luxuries of the civilian life. Added to this was his own background. Not that his family had been poor, far from it, but they were not gentlemen.

His father, a merchant from Newcastle, has bought him his first commission more than twenty years ago, paving the way for succesful military career. Perhaps that was why he indulged Edmonds. The lad had shown promise even as a private, yet the most compelling reason had been the likness in charachter to Sir David's brother Daniel, who had died young.

Perhaps it was a form of redemption, buying peace of mind by doing someone else a good turn. Not that Edmonds may appreciate it. His discomfort more than readily discernable, but everyone had to agree that he was a formidable soldier.

 

[pen_an_dink]

Nicholas watched Cornet Vivian prance up to Colonel Henderson’s daughter. Naturally, he thought, and smiled sardonically. Vivian had a web of family connections stretching across the 'noble families' of Great Britain like a complex fisherman's net. That's who she'll marry he mused, one of them. He could not, however, remove his eyes from Miss Caroline's face. There was something about the eyes and the brow that suggested 'the old man'. There was intelligence and boundless curiosity.

Lt. Edmonds snorted and strode out of the hall. "No sense torturing oneself" he spoke softly to himself and then castigated himself for pronouncing the word torture. You don't even know the girl, he chided. She is also as far away as the North Star. Get a grip man.

In the foyer he found his hat and removed his gloves. Tossing the gloves inside the hat he placed them both back on the ledge and stepped out into the fresh air, his actions bespoke an annoyance, which he could not understand. Sgt. Hallard had placed two privates on guard at the door and was himself across the square puffing on his pipe, as was his custom. Nicholas strode across the square to join him.

Hallard and Edmonds had "accepted the kings shilling" together one drunken evening in Cheapside. They had remained fast friends throughout their shared
military experiences. The common battles on the field and in numerous taverns and inns made the pair inseparable. Hallard had volunteered for the same "forlorn hope" with Nicholas. The very venture which had lead to Lt. Edmond's promotion. They had both been offered the rank of ensign for their heroism, both had declined. But, Col. Henderson had been insistent with Nicholas since he had offered the same promotion of merit before. "This time I will not accept no for an answer young man. After what you did for me and now this affair... I am decided you will take the epaulettes. I will hear no more on the matter... An order, sergeant and order." Nicholas remembered every word.

Hallard snapped to mock attention and froze into an exaggerated salute. "Piss off Harry." Nicholas scowled. "I'm not in the mood for your nonsense."

"Has Milord, injured his toe dancing?" Harry feigned concern. Both men laughed at this and sat together on the bench surrounding the oak tree in the middle of the square.

"God, Harry, give me a knees up in the 'Ram and Bull' any time." The lieutenant fished out his pipe and the two men and was just settling in to enjoy a smoke with his "old china" when one of the subalterns approached. Harry sprang up to salute and the jr. officer waved him off.

"Colonel Henderson is asking for you." He turned quickly on his heels bothered by being employed as a messenger.

"Jesus Christ Harry." Nicholas muttered and straightened himself and his tunic. "Once more into the fray." He joked.

"For the Pattern." Harry chuckled.

Once in the foyer Nicholas found and put on his gloves then marched into the company ballroom. He spied the Colonel, who waved him over to join him. He was standing with his wife and daughter. Inexplicably, Nicholas felt his heart start to pound. He set his jaw as if going into battle and quick stepped across the room to. He clicked his heels and bowed at the women as he stood a pace behind the Colonel.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

"Is it wise dear?" Mama asked, referring to Papa's insistence that Lieutanant Edmonds be introduced to Caroline and herself. "I'm sure the young man will be feeling positively ill at ease in our company. Seeing as he is not a gentleman..."

Caroline found herself frowning at her words. There was of course differences between themselves and the common people, she was aware of that, but then again one should set an example. Papa had always been insistent that the the role of the gentry was just that, lead by example, a maxim he had employed succesfully on numerous battlefields. Perhaps that was why he was so well liked by his soldiers?

"He wasn't born one no, but that is on reason for being rude dearest." Adding with a wry smile "We must set an example." Straightening up as Edmonds approached them.

Caroline stood to Papa's left, a pace or so behind him as he greeted the lieutanant. He was tall, almost as tall as Papa, and his features were quite...hard. That was the only word Caroline could think of. His uniform not as lavishly adorned as Papa's or any other officer in attendence for that matter and he was not wearing the buckled dancing-shoes that the other officers were wearing but had retained his heavy boots. The overall impression he gave was one of...harshness. "Still he's very handsome", the thought making Caroline blush and she turned her head somewhat to disguise it.

He didn't fit into the refined environment, although Caroline could easily picture him on the battlefield. In that aspect he resembled Papa, but whereas he had learned to disguise that particular side to himself, it was very much visible with Edmonds. It was not that Caroline had ever seen her father leading men in battle, but at one point she had witnessed him lose his temper. That time when he had caught one of the stablehands trying to rape one of the maids. Caroline still shruddered as she recalled the way Papa had looked at the man and subsequently lashed out, displaying the side of his personality that he had kept to the battlefields. Lieutanant Edmonds displayed the same but explicitly so, and Caroline felt very happy that she would never have to face him as a foe.

"Confound it Nicholas, I didn't invite you so that you could be skulking in the garden." Papa spoke harshly, like she imagined a Colonel would when a junior officer had displeased him. Yet there was an amused hint to his words, and Caroline guessed that Papa although not saying so, held the lieutanant in very high esteem. Edmonds stood stiffly to attention not offering any other explanation than the occasional "Yes Sir" or "No Sir".

"For the love of Christ man! Stand easy and try to act civil. You' look like you're about to appear in front of a Court Martial!" Caroline wondered if all exchanges in the army was like this it sounded truely horrible. Papa turned to her and winked conspiratorically, alleviating whatever fears she had held that he seriously meant his harshly spoken words.

Seeing how Mister Edmonds relaxed and receiving a small smile in return from Papa. "This is my wife Lady Anne." Mama offered her hand and even managing a weak smile as Mister Edmonds stiffly bowed to kiss her hand. Mama gave him her patented look of bored good-will "It's quite remarkable is it not Mister Edmonds, being raised from the ranks? Most singular as far as I understand it. Are you settling in well?"

Caroline saw the colour rise on Mister Edmond's cheeks as Mama issued her questions at quite the rapid pace. "He's ashamed!" The realisation dawned to her, the lieutanant was indeed ashamed and didn't seem to know how to reply. Bracing herself she, quite contrary to the way she usually behaved, took a step forward and extending her hand in a graceful gesture.

"I am honoured to make your acquaintance Lieutanant Edmonds. My name is Caroline." Seeing how Mama frowned at her un-ladylike display, deciding to press on before she was interrupted, "I am furthermore most obliged to you Sir for your gallantry at Seringapatam." Sensing that Mama would intervene any second she made a desperate gamble "Are you obliged to a lady for the next dance Sir?"

Not daring to look at neither Mama nor Papa as Lieutanant Edmonds explained that he was not and thusly leading her to the dancefloor. "I hope he knows how to dance." Her worries brought about by the fact that Papa had told her that although Edmonds was a highly skilled soldier, his mastery of the waltz would be close to none.

 

[pen_an_dink]

Forced to chose between slighting the Colonel's daughter or embarrassing himself before the division's officers corp, Edmonds decided to sacrifice his own dignity. What recourse did he have? He proffered his arm to the enchanting Lady Caroline. Her fine gloved fingers grasped his forearm with more strength and surety than he had expected. For Nicholas ,however, there was no joy in this moment. The short walk to the dance floor resembled a walk to the gallows. He forced himself to take in air, to maintain his soldier's posture and to gather what decorum he could.

He struggled to keep his wits about him and concentrate... the music.. the music... he thought. He recognized the tune, "The Pirate's Waltz" and thanked God for small miracles. A waltz, it could have easily been a Quadrille or a Polka or the Lord knows what dances these "fine gentlemen and ladies" perform . Everyone waltzed, commoner, gentry... He had to keep a strict 1-2-3 count... Long-short-short.

He reminded himself not to grab her like some lusty wench in the local. He did a quick study of the couples already on the floor, he continued the count in his head...1-2-3. He was sure that he was sweating as he bowed to Miss Caroline and took her hand. Even through the fog of his discomfiture he could appreciate her charms. She would think him a dolt indeed he was reconciled to that. For, he would be counting with the concentration of a dullard. Her smile was both welcoming and open and she asked him something but he dare not break his count and missed the question. She laughed a fine and pleasant laugh not an annoying tinkling giggle like so many girls... Oh God, he'd lost the count. He waited to regain it before he set off on his first sliding step. Don't do that again he warned himself. 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3. He was grim in his determination.

To his amazement she was a feather to dance with. She followed his steps with such ease and fluidity that he began to relax. He began to feel the music. She felt the change in him and laughed. They both laughed. He was actually enjoying himself. A turn was even manoeuvred although he felt sure that she had somehow lead him through it. He gained enough confidence to look up from his own feet and was stunned by the comely, open face of the lovely Lady Henderson; a face framed with delicate bouncing ringlets. He also caught a glimpse of the Colonel smiling a bemused smile at he and Caroline. To his side stood Lady Anne Henderson. There he found no smile but rather the hint of a furrowed brow and a look of consternation. Then she spoke again...

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

She felt curiously light-headed as Lieutenant Edmonds escorted her out on the dancefloor. A small smile playing on her lips, not daring to look at Mama, knowing she would be rather irritated indeed. If Lady Anne had but one discerning feature it was economy of emotion, never allowing herself to reveal what mood she might be in. Caroline had yet to see Mama loose her composure, thus the euphemism should be read as very angry.

"Well best worry about that later." Caroline decided as Lieutenant Edmonds gave her a stiff bow before tentatively placing his right hand on her back and extending his left, palm down for Caroline to rest hers on. His face a mask of concentration, lips pursed as he took the first hesitant step, leading her in through the paces of the dance, eyes on the floor.

"Do relax Lieutenant, it's all very simple." Offering Edmonds a smile to which he didn't reply, too focused on keeping in rhytm with the orchestra. She rightly sensed his apprehension and ever so gently allowed herself to take command, directing his steps rather than the other way round, laughing quietly as he let himself be lead through the steps and even managing to negotiate one of the more complicated turns, rewarding him with a brilliant smile.

"It seems Papa was wrong Lieutenant, you are indeed a most skilled dancer." She watched his face intently as he gave her a tentative smile, mumbling a reply. Turning her head as another turn was taking place and briefly feeling his hand clasped tighter to her back. The touch seemed so very intimate and she found herself blushing. It was something endearing to his efforts, that he was willing to suffer the humiliation of his fellow officers in order to oblige her. His relieved smile managing, for a second, to render his harsh features softer. "He is very handsome indeed," Caroline thought as the waltz drew to a close.

Once again he bowed stiffly and escorted her of the dancefloor. Following her to the place where Sir David was standing, sipping a glass of champagne. "Dangerous business waltzing Edmonds." Taking another sip of the drink as a footman appeared passing round a tray of glasses "Too much manouvering to it, not the British way!" Papa emptied the glass and reaching for a refill and handing one to Caroline as he continued; "Straight lines, stand fast and fire that's the way, eh!". Edmonds smiled politely as both he and Caroline understood that Sir David was making the observation for his benefit, to mitigate his lacking skills. Sir David was about to launch into further comiserations but was interrupted as his second in command, the dour-looking Lieutenant Colonel Williams appeared. Bowing slightly to Caroline and pointedly ignoring Edmonds, he asked for a word with Papa.

To her surprise Caroline found herself being furious with Williams's behaviour. Wasn't officers supposed to act like gentlemen? Papa always claimed as much, but the blatant disregard that the Lieutenant Colonel had showed Edmonds was every bit the opposite. Blushing again but this time the colour motivated by anger rather then embarresment. Turning to Edmonds, who had not showed any emotion at the snub. "Lieutenant Edmonds, would you be so good to escort me to the balcony, I so require a bit of fresh air." Her words spoken loud enough for Williams to hear, and without looking for confirmation from Papa took Edmond's proffered arm.

Leading Edmonds rather than being led to the double doors of the balcony, barely able to restrain her temper. She was so cross with the way Williams had behaved though she couldn't quite understand why. Standing by the railings overlooking the park she turned to him. "I'm sorry about the way Lieutenant Colonel Williams behaved." Knowing full well that it was not for her to make the excuses, yet something compelled her to do so. Perhaps it was the stoic resignation that Edmonds had showed, or merely the fact that Williams had managed to strike at the very nerve of Caroline's belief that one should never, under any circumstances stoop as low as to disregard common courtesey. "He's defintely not a gentleman Lieutenant Edmonds." Feeling the blush again as he gave her a look, the shadow of a smile playing on his lips yet it didn't reach as far as his eyes.

 

[pen_an_dink]

re written

 

[pen_an_dink]

The evening air revived Nicholas' spirits, the evening air coupled with the company of the Colonel's daughter. She had literally marched him through the large double doors, which led to the balcony. The Colonel's second had set her off. Lieutenant Edmonds' restrained a smile. Not at her anger nor indeed at her purpose but at her resemblance to Col. Henderson. This wisp of a thing had taken on the firmness of action, the resolve which Nicholas so respected in him. She even had a little flare of the nostrils and reddened as 'the old man' did when he was moved to action.

"I'm sorry about the way Lieutenant Colonel Williams behaved. He's definitely not a gentleman Lieutenant Edmonds." She blurted this statement out as they first stepped out. He was amused but kept his demeanor. He leaned on the railing and looked out over the park and debated with himself. He had resolved to remain guarded around the nobility, "if you expose your flank you will feel the stiletto of sarcasm" he had reasoned. But her resemblance to the man who had offered him such kindness tempted him to open the defenses just a crack.

"Its just Eton meets Eastgate, Milady. Eton meets Eastgate." He wished that he had a pipe to smoke and fiddle with as he stared across the park grounds. "You are your father's daughter. That's sure. And he is one man in a thousand. More perhaps. One man in a thousand. "

She replied then joined him at the railing and there was a lengthy pause. There are people, Nicholas had observed, with whom one can share quietude. There seems no need to fill the void with chatter and niceties. Lady Caroline was one of these. Another similarity to his commanding officer.

"Lieutenant Colonel Williams is a good soldier ... a fighter Milady. I stood shoulder to shoulder with him at Assaye and we communicated and protected each other like brother soldiers. But he is old school and typical. He wants tradition to remain tradition. And so do I My Lady. Your father is the finest man I have ever met... Well your father but I tried to refuse this commission. You see I am now neither "fish nor fowl"... I have my mate Harry and your father ... a few other officers... Well, no need My Lady... No need at all... I'm sorry My Lady... Me prattling on like a parrot..." He pulled on the back of his tunic and stood up to attention. Again he offered his arm to Lady Caroline.

"They will miss you in there Milady."

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

"Its just Eton meets Eastgate, Milady. Eton meets Eastgate."

Lieutenant Edmond's words eerily void of emotion as spoke. The statement managing to encapsulate the great chasm that separated his world from her own. Caroline had been born to rank and priviliege, whereas Edmonds came from a background as strange to her as would be the moon. She felt the blush again, embarresed all of a sudden because her lacking understanding of the tribulations that he must have faced.

"You are your father's daughter. That's sure. And he is one man in a thousand. More perhaps. One man in a thousand. "

The sentence managing to convey the high esteem that Edmonds apparently held Papa in, and the compliment made her blush although not in an entirely unpleasant way. She looked at him, offering him a shy smile as she moved to stand beside him by the railings.

"That's a very kind thing to say Lieutenant, although any other implication would have made me a bastard." Grinning at his apparent shock, placing her hand on his arm in a placatory gesture. "That was meant as a minor witticism Lieutenant. I'm sorry as it seems to have misfired somewhat."

He raised his eybrow a fraction, seemingly taken aback by her outspokenness. Looking out over the park in silence. A silence that didn't strike Caroline as akward. "He's so very different from the other young men here." Comparing him to the charming Cornet Vivian, whom she had danced with earlier. Vivian knew how to converse, spoke latin and wore one of the most dashing uniforms among the subalterns. Edmonds on the other hand didn't waste time on small-talk, and his uniform made him stand out. His tunic standard-issue rather than tailormade. Caroline found herself thinking it appealing. There was a modesty to the lieutenant, not grounded in embarresment but rather the knowledge that he had proved himself enough on the battlefield not to need the paraphernalia of rank.

He offered a courteous explanation to Williams's behaviour earlier, yet Caroline could not help but finding the argument somewhat thin.

"That's a very stoic way of looking at the situation is it not Lieutenant?" She leaned closer, and for a moment their hands touched. It was not intentional and as far as gestures went it was fairly innocent. Yet the momentary contact made her gasp and she once again felt her cheeks colour. Edmonds must have sensed her discomfit and smoothly pointed out that she would be missed by her family by now. Taking his arm not daring to look at him as he escorted her back to Lady Anne.

"There you are." Mama gave her a stern look underlining her opinion of Caroline's disappearence. "It is time you and I are on our way home. Your father will join us shortly." Turning to Edmonds giving him the slightest of nods before ushering Caroline towards the foyer where a footman was waiting, holding their cloaks. Looking across her shoulder at him, not knowing what had happened but for one thing. That she wanted to see him again.

Mama didn't say a word, although her icy stare managed to convey her utter displeasure with Caroline's behaviour. The coachride took no longer than half an hour, yet it felt longer. She still felt the blush and the intensity of the touch. Looking out the window, her mind returning to the image of him.

"I cannot say I was overly pleased with your antics Caroline." Mama spoke in her reasonable tone, "I understand that you made a spectacle of both yourself and Papa in front of Lt Col. Williams." She gave Caroline yet another icy stare "and further you just had to socialise with the brutish Edmonds."

The anger she had felt earlier surfacing again, matching Mama's stare with an equally icy one of her own, "I thought it prudent to express my gratitude to the man who saved my father's life, Mother." Stressing the more formal title before plunging on "besides Lieutenant Edmonds is a gentleman and I'd rather spend time with him than suffer to listen to that terrible snob Williams." She kept Mama's gaze as the coach rolled to a halt outside their country house. Lady Anne elected not to answer her, giving her the silent treatment and adding a pointed look as she was assisted by the coachman to exit.

"We will discuss this issue with your Father, Caroline." With that she turned and made for her chambers. Caroline was still fuming, yet she kept her peace. Walking to her room in the south wing of the house. The maidservant was in attendence, having brought soap and hot water, assiting her in undressing and brushing her hair. Dismissing the girl, Caroline washed and having donned her nightie and saying her prayers slid beneath the covers of her bed. She was tired, confused and still angry and it seemed impossible to go to sleep. Her mind kept returning to the image of Edmonds, and she shamefully found herself imagining what it would be like to be kissed by him. The thought of his arms around her, his lips on hers made her breath heavier and she felt a tingle between her legs. Blushing guilitily she slid her hand beneath the covers, placing it between her legs, already moist and slowly starting to caress herself. Imagining his touch, his kiss, his embrace...

 

[pen_an_dink]

Nicholas felt like a fool. Why had he opened up to the Colonel’s daughter? He was now ripe for derision and ridicule. What if she mentioned his conversation to some asinine subaltern who might relish attacking his renowned stoic manner? He had managed to keep his own council since accepting the epaulettes. Now he was angry with himself for sharing his feelings with the Lady Caroline.

No, he was now lying to himself he thought. It was not the shared confidence that was upset him. “Be honest with yourself,” he muttered. He had actually revealed very little. It was the brush of her hand the touching of their arms as they leaned on the balcony. It was her. The physical nearness of her and the tremendous cavern that existed and would always exist between them. Yes he did feel the fool but not from the small opening he had allowed her but from the ridiculous feelings he had permitted himself for that brief moment.

He had caught himself revelling in her touch and had immediately drawn himself back from the brink. He had straightened his spine, offered his hand and delivered her to her mother. Done and forgotten. So now, why did he slip out to watch their coach depart and stand staring like a blithering idiot as the carriage pulled away? After staring into the darkness he stormed off to his quarters but then found himself marching at double time to the “Mulberry”. He’d get “Brahms” he told himself, wishing Harry was off duty.

He entered the tavern and hurled his hat onto a table which was wedged in the corner of the room. “Gin.” He yelled at the keep who was weary of Edmonds at the best of times. Now seeing an obvious black cloud over his head Fenton vowed to do nothing to upset the Lieutenant. It was a quiet night and Edmonds skulked in the corner and drank steadily. As Fenton brought a second bottle to the woozy Edmonds, Nicholas grabbed the man by the front of his shirt and pulled him down till their faces nearly touched.

“You’ve gotta stick with your own. No fucking illusions. What do I expect? You know the princess and the frog? Eh? Eh? Do you? He slurred and shouted into the keeps face. Fenton recoiled in terror and tried to squirm free but was held fast. He answered… “Yes … No … Well …” Trying desperately to hit on the correct combination of words which would make the inebriated Lieutenant release him. At length Nicholas did release the poor fellow and soon fell into a drunken sleep at the table.

An hour later, Harry who had sought Nicholas out in his quarters came to collect him.

“Come on me old china. Off we go lad.” He hauled Edmonds onto his feet and the pair staggered out the door.

“She is a rare beauty. A rare beauty. Worth a Raja’s fortune.” He carried on in this vein till Harry tossed him fully dressed onto his bed. Harry could only laugh and agree with everything he said. He had no idea who his rare beauty was but it amused him to see the immovable Nicholas Edmonds stricken so.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

Breakfast was usually taken early in the Henderson household and this day proved no exception. At eight she was standing in attendence, curtseying and receiving the morning greeting by Mama and Papa.

Sir David was in a foul mood, probably brought about by the generous amount of brandy he had shared with Lieutenant Colonel Williams when the two had gone through the necessary preparations for the coming expedition. Thus breakfast proved to be a solemn affair, and Caroline was quite content with this. She knew she'd be in for a scolding when Mama raised the issue of her behaviour last night, and she doubted that Papa would take kindly to it. Still he hadn't said anything, nor had he intervened when she had asked Edmonds to accompany her to the balcony. She smiled at the memory of him, and the subsequent dreams that had been so vivid during the night. The blush once more colouring her cheeks as she recalled the sensations that had run through her body. It all seemed so complicated. She knew that she ought not waste time thinking of him. He was after all a man raised from the ranks. But still...

"Don't dawdle Caroline!" Mama's words brought her back to the present. Mumbling an excuse as she finished her meal. The icy stare she received boded for no good to come, but as long as Papa was preoccupied, nursing the residue handgover it would have to wait. Besides, if she knew her father correctly he would relish the idea of being left to himself on a day such as this. She contemplated her plan for a fraction of a second before turning to him and using her sweetest voice broached the issue.

"Papa, I wonder if it would be possible to go into town today. I hear that Messrs. Barker & Clyde have received the set of water-colours I ordered. I would be most obliged if I could pick them up and spend some time painting."

"By all means dear, ask Jenkins to have the gig prepared." he pretended not to see Mama's frown at his leniency, truth to be told he couldn't be asked to discipline her. As far as Sir David was concerned his daughter had been most accurate in her description of Williams. A good soldier, a formidable disciplinarian but a terrible snob. Regarding Edmonds, well it was a bit of a pickle. Still the lass had only been civil where no one else had bothered. Besides he would have words with her regarding the inappropriacies of being too friendly with the man. He smiled at her and added "but don't expect me to sit for you today, I fear the wine I had last night was contaminated. I suppose one of the servants must have been a French spy, tipping poison in my glass..." He made a dramatic gesture and for the first time today he smiled broadly, seeing how Caroline hadn't quite understood the rather poor jest.

Mama sneered at his antics but didn't raise any objections. Thus Caroline was allowed to go into town accompanied by her maid and Jenkins the coachman. Papa had given her a purse even though she had brought her own, having saved the monies necessary to procure the colours. It was all very nice of him although Mama would say that he spoiled her.

The drive took less than an hour and as they pulled to a halt outside the store, Caroline dismissed her maid. She prefered being on her own right now. Picking up her colours, having them wrapped in a brown-paper parcel she decided to go for a walk by herself. Telling her servants she would be back shortly.

She'd only walked a few blocks down the street when she saw him. Lieutenant Edmonds. Feeling how her heart started to beat faster and the blush that always seemed to befall her whenever she thought about him. He looked ragged, as he made his way down the street, yet she couldn't help but notice that he still carried himself in a graceful manner. He had not seen her and she braced herself before calling his name

"Lieutenant Edmonds!"

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Utterly shamless bump

 

[magbeam]

Edmonds had few memories of the time that had passed since he started drinking at the Mulberry. Edmonds had been a hard drinker for much of his life; it had helped him cope with much of his youth. Once he was an officer, he had tried his best to tone it down, however. He had never been one to fall for the view that liquor or its effects were evil; that was a gentleman's view, and they could afford to dabble in such nonsense, most of them being hypocritical snobs anyways. But if he was going to in any shape fit into the officer's corps, Edmonds knew it would not do to drink himself into a stupor every night. Besides, even as a so-called 'common' soldier, he had learned that hard drinking could have lethal effects on the battlefield.

And yet, as he woke up in his quarters, his head feeling like a two-pounder barrage was going off in his skull, Edmonds had to concede that perhaps his drinking was not the best thing in the world for him, morality aside. As quick as he was able to under the circumstances he searched himself, glad to find that he hadn't been robbed, gradually remembering that Harry had helped him back from the Mulberry. From there, it was only a few seconds to recall why he had resorted to such drinking.

The groan that came to his lips had nothing to do with his hangover, but rather the memory of the beautiful Lady Caroline and his foolish feelings for her. Anger flared up within him, quicklyfollowed by the nausea of an empty stomach filled with the remnants of two gin bottles. He stumbled out the door of the quarters to the street, vomiting.

Just as he was finishing, he heard Harry laughing behind him.

"Yer lookin' as fresh as ever, lad," he said. "Considerin' the state you was in last night. Mumblin 'bout naught but beautiful Rajas or somesuch." He hauled Edmonds to his feet. "Let's get you cleaned up, me old china. Won't do to have you bringing disgrace upon the officer corps of the King's army."

With Harry's help, Edmonds, still woozy, cleaned himself up and got into a relatively-cleaner uniform. There were no new orders; it looked like today wasn't the day they'd be shipping out for Denmark. As much as he tried, he couldn't get the thought of Lady Caroline out of his head. Perhaps he needed some distraction from her. It was daylight, but if one knew where to look, one could still find a supple and willing girl who didn't care that the handsome officer between her legs was raised from the ranks.

When he left quarters, however, he found himself wandering the streets almost aimlessly. Perhaps it was the hangover, or perhaps it was his fool's thoughts, but he just couldn't stomach sating himself with a whore, not so soon after last night. Keeping his thoughts close, he at first dismissed the woman's voice as his own imagination.

"Lieutenant Edmonds!"

His head looked over, and he had to struggle to keep his mouth from falling open. Lady Caroline, here, alone? He felt a strange lump in his throat form. Had she been looking for him? Coming to see him?

Stop, he told himself sternly, as he approached her. Why would she be looking for him?

"Lady Caroline," he said with a bow. "I didn't expect to see you again so soon, certainly not alone on the streets." He realized how that could have sounded, and kicked himself mentally. Trying to make up for it, he said, "Will you allow me to accompany you to your destination?"

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Lady Caroline Henderson

"I'd be delighted to be escorted by you Lieutenant Edmonds, and I do so appreciate your concerns for my welfare."

She smiled shyly, the blush once more colouring her cheeks as she extended her hand for him. Caroline knew that she was probably overstepping some boundary or other but truth to be told she did not care. Nicholas Edmonds intrigued her, and more so he had her thoroughly enthralled by now. Biting her lip as she momentarily allowed herself to recall the sensations of the previous night. Still blushing as he stiffly kissed her gloved hand.

"Have you had lunceon yet Lieutenant?" She took his arm in a tentative gesture but being reinforced as he offered her a weak smile in return "It does strike me as you have been the target of the same French spy as Papa."
Seeing the look of incomprehension on his face she could not help but laugh, "Oh you see Lieutenant Edmonds, Sir David was of the opinion that the brandy he had last night had been poisoned thusly meriting his poor constitution this morning." Winking conspiratorically as Edmonds laughed politely. It was probably a terrible breach of etiquette telling the subaltern about the Colonel's hangover yet it seemed innocent enough to Caroline as she and Edmonds proceeded down the street.

"I hear that Claridge does a reasonable luncheon, I take it you're a member?" She cursed herself as soon as she had asked, knowing the strict regulations that the establishment imposed. "It is of no consequence Lieutenant Edmonds, I am sure that they will have us for guests." Smiling again and gently squeezing his arm as they made their way down the street. Caroline found herself talking quite freely, telling him about her passion for painting, and wondering if he'd sit for her at some point. He had been polite, although not saying too much in response to the storm of questions that assailed him.

They reached Claridge, and upon seeing the apprhension in Edmond's eyes she turned to him, looking around before standing tiptoe to kiss his cheek. "Don't you worry Lieutenant. When we walk in the door we're Mr and Mrs Williams and they won't have us thrown out in the street." Smiling mischeviously as she took his hand again. It felt appropriate to assume the roles of the horrid Lieutenant Colonel Williams, as well as for a moment imagining herself to be Nicholas's wife.

"Shall we dearest?" Blushing as she motioned to the door.

 

[magbeam]

Lady Caroline offering her hand for him to kiss was unexpected, but not something he would reject. Looking up from her hand, Edmonds could have sworn that she was blushing. Well, what of it? he thought, self-depracating. Probably embarassed to have to endure that with a right boor like me. Yet even with his anger fueled by countless injustices heaped upon him by 'gentlemen' and their ladies, he couldnt get himself to believe that that was the reason she blushed - something that was reinforced when she took his arm. He couldn't help but let a smile overcome his dour constitution.

"Have you had lunceon yet Lieutenant? It does strike me as you have been the target of the same French spy as Papa."

For a brief second, thise words caused a near-panic in Edmonds. Had the Old Man been struck down by one of Boneypart's men to foil the Danish operation?

"A frog, the Old Man?! Is...is he..."

But then he saw Caroline laugh, and reality set in. Would she be out and about so gaily if her father was on his deathbed?

"Oh you see Lieutenant Edmonds, Sir David was of the opinion that the brandy he had last night had been poisoned thusly meriting his poor constitution this morning."

Soldiers, even officers, taunting each other over hangovers in the time-honored tradition of male posturing was accepted practice; hearing a noblewoman, especially one as young as Lady Caroline, talk about it was a bit of a shock. He let another small smile cease his face. By this point, he shouldn't be surprised that she differed from most nobility.

The smile faded at her next question, about her assuming his membership at some fancy establishment that he likely would not be able to afford even if they would have him, or if he would prefer to hobnob with those misanthropes. The nobility. They all assumed that what they had was common, never giving a thought to what an exclusive, expensive elite world they lived in.

"It is of no consequence Lieutenant Edmonds, I am sure that they will have us for guests."

For all his bad attitude the question had given him, it was pushed away by the smile and squeeze Lady Caroline lavished him with. Her squeeze resonated in other parts of his body, as well, and Edmonds found himself wishing he had found a whore after all, to free himself of this tension he suddenly felt.

As they walked down the street, Caroline talked a great deal about her painting. Of course he had never painted, and considered it a hobby to occupy nobles who lacked the constitution to do anything more manly. But to hear her speak of it...He wished he knew more about it; as it were, he could only nod politely and answer shortly, like an idiot. He had not done much talking at all so far, and he was sure she thought him rude beyond belief.

Before he knew it, they had arrived at Claridge, and Edmonds mentally sighed, resigning himself to the fact that it was going to be last night all over again: singled out for scorn and ridiculue by a gaggle of self-righteous pooftas. Assuming they even let him in, of course. He hoped they would not bar entry; not for his sake, but he would save Lady Caroline that embarssment.

Suddenly, his thoughts were ended with a soft, wet, warm sensation on his cheek, and Edmonds realized that Caroline had kissed him.

"Don't you worry Lieutenant. When we walk in the door we're Mr and Mrs Williams and they won't have us thrown out in the street. Shall we dearest?" Caroline blushed as she finished, taking his hand.

Again, he was shocked, but then his words from last night came to his mind. Such brave, honorable action was as good an indication of the Old Man's paternity as any. "You truly are your father's daughter...my love," he said, entering the role eagerly, perhaps too eagerly.

Stay focused, he told himself. She is doing this because you saved the Old Man and she is grateful. Nothing more. No matter how she acts, she's nobility and she's the Old Man's girl and you have to keep that in mind.

However, that didn't mean he couldn't enjoy himself...or more precisely, enjoy pretending that class didn't separate them, at least for luncheon. Edmonds led her inside, hoping that his total lack of knowledge of proper etiquette wouldn't give up their guise.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

Caroline gave Nicholas' arm a reassuring squeeze as they entered, beeing greeted by an servant in livery, who gave Edmonds a haughty stare, seeing as much of his uniform was standard issue and thusly bespoke limited funds.

"May I help you Sir." Keeping his features impassive, yet the flicker betrayed the sentiments the man seemed to harbour. Caroline had thought to be quiet yet the impudence of the man made her temper flare and before Nicholas could address the question she gave the footman a haughty stare.

"Yes you may. My husband and I wishes to take luncheon, although we have no intention of being snubbed by a servant. We shall have words with my husband's uncle Lieutenant Colonel Edward Williams about this. I understand that he is a member of this establishment and I am certain that he will be most vexed hearing what kind of reception you offer guests here."

Caroline kept the man's stare, trying her best to emulate the haughtyness of Lady Anne, and to her surprise it seemed to do the trick as the footman began to muttering an excuse. She held her hand up in a premptive manner and turned to Nicholas, giving him an almost imperceptive wink.

"I'm sure you will do your utmost to remedy this are you not? Or there will be words, my husband is well acquainted and did his duty to King and Country at Seringapatam and Assaye."

The poor man stammered a string of excuses as he ushered them to a table, although Caroline played at paying him no heed. Trying her best to copy Mama when she was in her haughtiest of moods.

"It's horrible isn't it dearest? Being treated as were we nothing but gutter-filth. Do take this man's name and speak to Uncle Edward about this. I will not suffer to be treated in such a manner and neither should you dearest. You are a hero after all"

Nicholas looked positively shocked by Caroline's show, yet there was a flicker of a smile on his face as the footman apologised for the umpteenth time and told them about the menu, offering them a glass of sherry in a placatory gesture, something that Caroline waved away seeing as they did not want handouts.

Being left alone and waiting for their food she leaned closer and smiled, blushing slightly as she did.

"I hope you don't find me overly terrible Mister Ed, I mean Dearest ,but I couldn't have that man behave in such a fashion."

She reached out touching his hand across the table and giving his tunic an apprising look. "You really ought to get a new one Nicholas. I'd be happy to lend you the monies needed to get one."

Chiding herself as she had spoken, thinking that she might have unmanned him by offering such a gesture, yet it had been proposed in good faith. Horrible as it was, respect lay firmly in the dress, and if she could do what little she could to give Edmonds a leg-up she'd be happy to do so.

 

[magbeam]

Edmonds was used to being stared down by hostile men. Be it the rough street men and landlords of his youth, various sergeants and officers in the Army, Tipu Sultan's warriors in India, and now his fellow "gentlemen" of the officer corps, Edmonds had survived them all.

He would be damned if he would now be fazed by the glare of a pampered London servant whose backround was likely as low as his own. Edmonds tried to think of a suitably cutting, haughty, incisive retort that would cement his position as a "gentleman," when Caroline spoke.

"Yes you may. My husband and I wishes to take luncheon, although we have no intention of being snubbed by a servant. We shall have words with my husband's uncle Lieutenant Colonel Edward Williams about this. I understand that he is a member of this establishment and I am certain that he will be most vexed hearing what kind of reception you offer guests here. I'm sure you will do your utmost to remedy this are you not? Or there will be words, my husband is well acquainted and did his duty to King and Country at Seringapatam and Assaye."

Edmonds turned to look at the woman on his arm, tying his best to hide his shock - not just at Caroline's words, but the fear that this might, indeed, make it back to Williams, and that the lieutenant-colonel would certainly not be pleased at the usurpation of his identity, no matter how peripherally. Agreeing to it in part-jest was one thing; having Lady Caroline actually go through with it was another.

He feared he was doing a poor job of hiding his surprise, but thankfully the servant seemed shocked enough himself to not care what state the lieutenant was in. Did Caroline just wink at him? He looked at her in a new light. This went beyond the courage and compassion of the Old Man; what it was, Edmonds didn't know, but he found a part of himself, below the shock, enjoyed it.

"It's horrible isn't it dearest? Being treated as were we nothing but gutter-filth. Do take this man's name and speak to Uncle Edward about this. I will not suffer to be treated in such a manner and neither should you dearest. You are a hero after all"

"Yes, absolutely frightful. Should be put in their place," he managed to say, hopefully impersonating Colonel Williams as well as his 'wife' was channeling her own mother. He also managed a smile as she glanced at him again when they were led to their table. He let her answer, suddenly realizing in horror that he likely would not be able to afford the meal. Well, he could worry about that when he got there. No sense worrying about disarming the prisoners before the armies had even met.

When she had ordered and the servant departed, Caroline turned back to him, leaning in conspiratorially, smiling as a rosy blush spread across her cheek. Edmonds was no poet, far from it, but words like 'enchanting' and 'bloom' came to his mind. It somehow made her look younger, more innocent, in contrast to the splendid performance she had just put on.

"I hope you don't find me overly terrible Mister Ed, I mean Dearest ,but I couldn't have that man behave in such a fashion."

"It is nothing new, my dear," he answered, privately relishing the chance to call her that. "As I'm sure you will remember from last night. It seems even manservants will not allow me to escape my station," he added bitterly. He opened his mouth, then closed it. He was going to continue, but if he continued down that road, he wold grow more angry and dour, as was his nature, and he did not want to ruin Caroline's meal. Or, he privately added, give her a bad impression of himself.

Her hand reached out to touch his own, which had been resting palm-down on the table, and before he could realize he was doing it, he had turned his hand up, gently taking hold of her hand, giving it a soft squeeze...what was he doing? There was no one around. He didn't need to pretend to be her husband at the moment. But he found that she didn't resist, and he found that he didn't let go.

"You really ought to get a new one Nicholas. I'd be happy to lend you the monies needed to get one."

He smiled at her, a genine smile this time and not one tinged with shock an unease as before, not taking offense; after how she had gone out of her way to defend his non-existent honor, both here and with the real Williams last night, how could he take offense at her offering him monies?

He didn't even notice that she had used his Christian name for the first time.

"That is an exceedingly kind offer, my dear, but I am afraid I will have to decline. I could not ask that of you. I'm proud of my uniform. I earned it myself, through my own actions...and your father's, of course. It is true that I am scorned because it is not as ornate as those of officers of more means, but simply getting a tailored uniform would not make them forget that I am of a lower station than they are.

"And in any case," he added in a lower voice, "if it were ever discovered that my uniform was paid for by yourself, you would surely find yourself at the center of ugly rumors attacking your honor. I would spare you, and your family, that."

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

They were interrupted as the waiter served them the food, offering them a rather limited choice of claret who Caroline haughtily accepted.

"It's exceedingly kind of you to have my family's honour in mind Nicholas, and I'm sorry that Mama does not seem to value it." She bit her lip, for a moment looking her age and looking to the side, then a thought hit her. "Nicholas, when is your birthday?"

Seeing as he raised an eyebrow before telling her that to the best of his knowledge he was born in late December. Not inquiring further about that as she tucked in to the food, which proved to be rather overrated, at least from her point of view. Edmonds on the other hand seemed to enjoy it thoroughly and it was quite endearing to Caroline that he could express, albeit unconcously so, the softer sides to his personality. Caroline was not too informed about the class-system but she'd started to understand that the leap that Edmonds had taken must have proved very taxing indeed. Reminding herself about Sir Arthur's words, that the enlisted man needed not to be taught how to read and write since that was not a prerequisite for a soldier. She knew that one ought to stay in one's position, that was the foundation of the society that she lived in, yet the callousness that her peers had reserved for Edmonds made her doubt the virtue of such an ideology. If it had not been for the bravery of Nicholas she'd lost her father and whatever reward he'd been given was surely well-deserved.

Finishing their meal and sliding the purse across the table to Nicholas. "It looks better if Mister Williams pays the bill wouldn't you say dearest?" as well as smiling sweetly. She enjoyed the way he seemed to be so concious about appearence around her but not in the manner of Cornet Vivian, who had gone to great lenghts to impress her with his knowledge of the classic languages and his refined manners. Nicholas had never tried such a thing and it was strangely refreshing.

He paid the bill and escorted her from Claridge, and almost seemed ready to make his excuses as he did.

"No no dear, can't leave your darling wife all alone in the streets. I got my carriage by the square and I request that you will escort me."

She smiled sweetly as she took his arm, knowing they pass the tailor on the way. Caroline had already decided that whatever Nicholas may feel or think he was getting a new tunic on her expense.

"Shall we?"

 

[magbeam]

"It's exceedingly kind of you to have my family's honour in mind Nicholas, and I'm sorry that Mama does not seem to value it."

"Lady Anne is indeed a...woman of some convictions, at least in the manner regarding me. Yet, as she is your mother and the Colonel's wife, I will afford her the utmost respect." Edmonds would have loved to tell Caroline what he really thought of her mother, but it was clear the girl loved her, and he had to admit to himself that his views were probably tainted by his unkind memories of his own mother.

He had not noticed her use his Christian name the first time, but Edmonds certainly noticed it then. He couldn't help but feel an absurd sense of being pleased at the fact. Not many people called him Nicholas; it was a name he associated with his unhappy childhood, and as soon as he was old enough, had introduced himself as Edmonds. Even his friends in the Army had called him that, and he was used to thinking of himself merely as Edmonds.

The Old Man was the only one who deemed to use his Christian name; Edmonds didn't like it, but did not rebuff Sir David. He would never contradict Sir David so, and as far as Edmonds was concerned, the Old Man had the right to call him whatever he wanted, without complaint. However, no such negative feelings arose when Caroline spoke his Christian name. The opposite, in point of fact.

He watched as Caroline bit her lip, feeling himself get drawn in. Did she herself realize how sensual such a minor action could be? Probably not, the young thing, and Edmonds found himself growing ashamed at thinking of her in a carnal way, no matter how incidentally.

"Nicholas, when is your birthday?"

His eyebrow rose quizzically, assuming immediately why she was asking: to gift him with a new uniform. Of course, she couldn't give him a birthday present, and not only for the obvious reason.

"As far as I am aware, sometime in late December," he answered, slightly stiffly, and was embarassed to feel heat rising in his cheeks. He was neither happy nor proud to discuss his early life with his friends; doing so with Lady Caroline was unthinkable. To politely indicate he did not wish to talk further on the subject without saying so out loud, Edmonds began to eat.

He was amazed at how good the food was. He didn't think he'd ever eaten this well in his life - and yet this was what the "gentlemen" regulaly eat for luncheon? Yet another entry he could add to his list of why to resent them. He had to force himself to eat slowly and politely to as not to embarass Caroline (that seemed to be the paramount objective of his, recently). But still, he couldn't help but entertain a small amount of glee at the food, enough to distract him from the issue of paying for it.

Thankfully, Caroline seemed to have already anticipated it, passing her purse across the table.

"It looks better if Mister Williams pays the bill wouldn't you say dearest?" she said with an impish grin.

Edmonds found a blush rising in his cheeks for the second time that meal. "Quite so, my love...thank you."

He knew that Caroline would end up paying for the meal regardless, and she had spared him the indignity of having to ask her for the monies, but he still did not like it. Any other noble or gentleman, Edmonds would have no qualms stealing from hands over heels; but with Caroline, even taking as modest a payment as the meal was to her filled him with shame. He found himself wanting to protect her, to fend for her...

What is wrong with me? he asked in shock at he paid the bill. Why am I feeling like this? I never have before, not with any of the women I've ever had any interest in. Is it because they were all whores, and she's the first one to be a true lady to show interest? But she hasn't shown interest! A few smiles does not mean anything! I've got to stop this. Right now. For my own good. Say goodbye, walk away, get pissed with Harry, get laid, and forget her.

As he walked out of the club with her, Edmonds resolved to do as he planned, politely say goodbye to her, thank her profusely, and walk fast in the opposite direction. However, Caroline seemed to have other plans.

"No no dear, can't leave your darling wife all alone in the streets. I got my carriage by the square and I request that you will escort me."

She flashed him a smile, took his arm, and his protestations and plans died on his tongue, replaced with a smile in return.

"Shall we?"

"What man could refuse any request from such a lovely wife as you, Caroline?" he asked, as they began walking down the street.

He winced at his words as soon as they came out. He was certain he had crossed the line there, and kept his head straight forward or to the side, afraid to meet her gaze suddenly. It was because his gaze ws directed to the side that he noticed they were approaching a tailor, and he had a sudden suspicion which was confirmed when his companion stopped them in front of it.

"Really, Lady Caroline, I cannot accept this of you," he said, before she could speak. "You were exceedingly kind to put up with the humiliation of dining with such a boor like me, and after you paying for the meal from your own purse, I simply cannot accept this." He tried a smile, which came out weakly. "Besides, I would not like to tempt a challenge of honor from one of your suitors."

He had almost said 'other suitors,' but caught himself in time. Still, as he looked down at Caroline, Edmonds couldn't help but wonder if he should have said the words.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

"Of course you can. Nicholas."

Straightening up and glaring at Edmonds in much the same fashion that she imagined Sir David would. "I can't have the man who saved my father's life dress like a ruffian can I?". Smiling shyly as she once more saw the look he gave her. "Besides Papa would be most impressed if you got yourself a new tunic."

Caroline knew it was tantamount to cheating referring to Sir David, yet she figured that Edmonds would not let her furnish him with a new uniform just out of gratitude. In the short time she had known the lieutenant she had come to realise the great esteem he held her father in and that he would be loath to spite his colonel.

Entering the shop and being greeted by the tailor. Edmonds had taken on the posture of tormented silence, refusing to say anything more than the occasional 'yes' or 'no'.

"Now dear, you know I cannot abide when you're rude. Let the man help you with the measurements."

She had nudged him in the ribs as she spoke being rewarded with a faint smile from the tailor. Edmonds sighed as he allowed the man to measure him up and having his assistant jot down the figures.

"Would you require new trousers as well? Shirts? Cravatte?" The tailor looked at Edmonds over his half-moon spectacles, most probably counting the profit that such an order would land him.

Edmonds was about to decline when Caroline interceeded. "My husband requires all that yes. And do make sure that the items are of the highest quality. We can't have a gallant officer walking around in rags can we? What kind of a signal does that send?"

Caroline had stared down the man and was reassured that only the best materials would be used and that the package would be ready to pick up by evening. She handed the tailor one of her purses, and being assured that the monies well covered the expenses.

Edmonds had not said a word during the whole affair and kept his stoic silence as he escorted Caroline down the street. Perhaps she had gone too far but somehow she felt it had been the right course of action. Hadn't Edmonds carried out an act of courage well surpassing the requirements of the service? More important he was the reason that Papa was still alive and that must be worth something. Further it irked Caroline that officers from the gentry who had not yet seen war could treat him with such disdain merited only by his humble background. The new uniform would perhaps prove some leverage and she hoped that Edmonds would understand her reasons.

As they reached the carriage she once again turned to him, blushing slightly as she did.

"I hope you don't find me too forward asking this Nicholas, but I would very much like you to call on me tomorrow night. Mama is hosting some kind of poetry recital and I'm sure that both Papa and I would be much pleased if you were to show up."

She felt the blush as she saw his expression but decided to press on. "I'd be most obliged if you can save me from the poets."

Getting up in her carriage and with a conspiratoric glance leaned over to kiss his cheek.

"I'll be expecting you at 6 tomorrow then Nicholas."

 

[magbeam]

"Of course you can. Nicholas. I can't have the man who saved my father's life dress like a ruffian can I?"

Edmonds almost laughed, wondering if she realized how much she looked like her father in her insistence to clothe him. He also wondered at the fact that she still brought up his service at Seringapatam. Most of the gentry he had known, Edmonds imagined would have thanked him perfunctly once and then dropped it, embarassed to have been in such debt to someone like him. The fact that Caroline kept bringing it up, treating him like he was some sort of hero, filled him with warmth, despite the fact he tried to tell himself that she likely fawned over all of her father's officers so.

Still, he was about to politely refuse her again, when Caroline smiled and carried on:

"Besides Papa would be most impressed if you got yourself a new tunic."

Edmonds stared at her for a few seconds, a variety of emotions playing over his face, and he wondered if she were manipulating him as effectively as she had done the others, or if it were just an innocent suggestion. Deciding it didn't matter, he relented.

"If you say so..." he reluctantly allowed, sighing. "I suppose it would reflect poorly on the Colonel if one of his officers were as shabby as I am." He let himself be guided into the tailor's shop, and was greeted by the short, bespectacled man himself.

Caroline handled most of the talking, allowing Edmonds to reply with little more than simple grunts, which earned him a poke and a gentle reprove, one that he accepted in (relatively) good humor as Caroline included another endearment towards him. He groaned inwardly, partly from the happiness he felt at indulging in their fantasy of wedlock, and partly from the despair he felt knowing that he was growing increasingly attracted to a girl who was far beyond his station.

"Would you require new trousers as well? Shirts? Cravatte?" the man asked as the measuring was over.

Edmonds had been about to answer, "Certainly not," when Lady Caroline beat him to it.

"My husband requires all that yes. And do make sure that the items are of the highest quality. We can't have a gallant officer walking around in rags can we? What kind of a signal does that send?"

It was followed by another glare that she borrowed from her father, and Edmonds groaned inwardly again. It was bad enough that he had allowed her to spend so much on her with the simple uniform; now he felt like he was extorting her into spending enough to raise her own regiment, never mind that she was the insisting one.

She handed over the monies and they left the store, with her taking his arm again. They walked in silence; she seemed to be pensive about something, while Edmonds couldn't tell whether to be miffed or grateful for the uniform. He decided to settle on enjoying the sensation of her on his arm, noting, more sadly than he had any right to be, that this whole charade would end in a few minutes when they reached her carriage.

When they reached the vehicle, Edmonds felt like a heavy weight had suddenly dropped on him. It was childish, but he couldn't deny it. He struggled to find the right words to say, when Caroline turned to him. She was blushing, Edmonds noted.

"I hope you don't find me too forward asking this Nicholas, but I would very much like you to call on me tomorrow night. Mama is hosting some kind of poetry recital and I'm sure that both Papa and I would be much pleased if you were to show up."

He stared at her, dumbstruck at the fact she was actually asking to see him again. She was actually asking to see him. Yesterday they had met at something they had both been forced to attend; today they met by chance. Both were out of control. But tomorrow...

She wanted to see him!

"I'd be most obliged if you can save me from the poets." She entered the carriage, paused, glanced around secretly, and kissed his cheek. She had kissed him before, outside the club, and he had enjoyed that as well. But this seemed...more intimate somehow. He wasn't sure how, and was so wrapped up in the flurry of sensations he almost missed the vital information of when to arrive.

"I'll be expecting you at 6 tomorrow then Nicholas."

"I...I confess to not being skilled at poetry" (or enjoying it, he added to himself) "but it would give me great pleasure to...join you," he finished lamely. He sent her a smile, as the carriage began to leave, and he found himself rooted to the spot, watching until it turned a corner and Caroline was out of sight.

He stayed there for a few more moments, trying to make sense. Now that she was out of sight and he had had time to breath in air that was free of her scent, perhaps he could try to think logically again. He had been reading the signs all wrong.

Such an enchanting thing like that would never, ever wish to have anything to do something lowbred like me. A poetry reading? With her mother? After what she spent on me at the tailor's, that is nothing. She likely wanted me to make an appearance to hobnob with whatever high society types will be attending. Or more likely the Old Man hates them and she wanted to giver her Papa a way out. Yes, that's it. Think that. Anything else will lead to a dead end at best, and you messing up your life at worst. You need to clear your mind...and other body parts as well.

Edmonds found himself wandering down the streets of the city, happening upon the seedier area of town. He knew exactly where he was going, and soon he found her small apartment.

A small, black-haired girl opened it, and smiled. "Edmond!" she exclaimed, having assumed that his surname was his Christian name. "And what brings you around these parts?" she asked slyly, as if it could be for anything but what he always came for.

"Gwen," he said. "You know why, you little tart. Are you available."

"At this hour?" she said, as he entered. "What's your fancy to...mmph!" she exclaimed, as Edmonds pushed her roughly onto the bed, covering her mouth with his. Gwen was one of his favorite prostitutes. She was from some unpronouncable Welsh town, and he felt a small kinship for her, alone among all the English of the city. Plus, she was clean.

The coupling was rough and fast, Edmonds intending to clear his mind of his thoughts of Caroline, assuming that the only reason he had thought of her in any way other than as the Old Man's girl was that it had been too long since his last whore. Still, he couldn't help but close his eyes and imagine it was Caroline around him and under him, Caroline crying out his name in exaggerated bliss, Caroline...

"So who's this Caroline? Lady-friend of yours, is she?" Gwen asked afterwards, as she lounged in bed as Edmonds hurriedly dressed himself afterwards.

"No one," he said brusquely, dropping the coins in payment on the bed next to her. "And if you want to see my coin again, you'll forget I mentioned her," he replied, standing up.

"Ooh, touchy touchy," Gwen retorted, counting the money, but Edmonds was already out the door. He felt sick; his arousal was gone, but Caroline was still in his head, and he was consumed with shame at having associated her with anything so...so low as the little Welsh harlot. She was nothing at all like Gwen, and that escapade has proven to him how she deserved so much better than he could ever offer her.

Not that she had ever wanted anything from him, he morosely reminded himself as he made his way back to quarters. Harry was gone, he noted thankfully; his friend would know something was wrong, and Edmonds didn't want to deal with the man's banter at the moment. Instead, he sat on his cot, feeling very confused.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

Caroline arrived at the country house an hour or so later, she had deviated from her habit of gossiping with her maid, her mind too occupied with the image of Nicholas Edmonds.

She enjoyed his company and not only because he had saved Papa's life. Where her one suitor, Cornet Charles Vivian had tried his utmost to be charming and try and impress her with his knowledge of both poetry and the arts Edmonds sat quiet. Perhaps it was the fact that Edmonds had seen war, which she knew that Vivian had not.

Yes there was something about Edmonds. She blushed recalling the shameful pleasures she had taken from the image of his lips on hers, his arms wrapped around her slender frame. Of course she had been attracted to Charles Vivian, but he did not stir such emotions in her.

Arriving at the estate and heading straight for Sir David's study, knowing she'd better tell him straight away that she had invited Nicholas to Mama's poetry recital the following evening. Caroline found him at his desk, writing something as she demurely knocked on the door and entered.

"Caroline what brings me this unexpected pleasure?" Papa smiled as he put down his spectacles. He only wore them at home even though he probably needed them in the field as well. He gestured for her to take a seat, putting his documents to the side and smiling as sat down.

"So how was your little trip to town? Did you get the colours that you ordered?

"I did indeed Papa, " she bit her lip before continuing "I met Lieutenant Edmonds and I know that I perhaps shouldn't but I invited him to Mama's soiree tomorrow evening."

Sir David stared at her "You did what Caroline?" She was about to explain again but he waved away her explanations. "I know you are only trying to be nice to the man but this is not something that is suitable."

He stood up and began pacing the room. "You must understand that while I apprecieate lieutenant Edmonds profeciency as a soldier I do not need nor do I relish the idea of spending time with him in private. It is just not suitable for a subaltern without any standing in society to come calling like that."

Caroline had kept her peace yet she had decided not to budge. Looking at Sir David as he continued to underline how unsuitable the situation was.

"In that case I will tell Mister Edmonds that you did not want him to attend Papa."

She had spoken quietly but she held her father's stare. "Further I thought it prudent that you'd have someone else who hates poetry as much as you do. If nothing else you can tell Mama that you have important military matters to discuss."

Sir David gave her a long stare and for a moment Caroline thought that she had pushed the issue to far, but seeing as her father smiled mischeviously alleviated that worry.

"You do have a scheming streak Caroline. Thank God I don't have to face you on the battlefield. I'll let Edmonds sit around then if that makes you any happier."

She stood up and gently kissed his cheek "It will make me very happy indeed Papa." Smiling as she left him to his business and returning to her room. She spent most of the afternoon there. Not wanting to run into Mama more than necessary. The only thing on her mind was the following evening when she'd see Nicholas again.

 

[magbeam]

Edmonds did not sleep well that night. Undoubtedly it was due to nerves, something that usually didn't bother him, at least on the battlefield. In some of his more maudlin days, he had half-hoped to die on the battlefield, life having become nearly too painful for him. He generally thought those days of self-pitying were long since gone; between Harry and looking after the Old Man, and the few accomodations that being an officer granted him, Edmonds generally thought that life was at least tolerable now. Even then, he had found the prospect of death on the battlefield, gaining glory in the manner of the Roman and Grecian heroes, not to be something he overly fretted about.

But this stupid poetry party that he had stupidly allowed his lesser instincts to accept...that frightened him. It wasn't due to being rejected by the society yet again; he was used to that. It was how the Old Man and Lady Caroline would treat him that he found frightening. What if the Colonel took his actions the wrong way? What if Caroline did? He didn't know what would be worse, them finally putting an end to his semi-courting of Caroline, or them, or at least her, embracing it...

He did not go drinking that Harry that night, something that would have immediately put the sergeant on alert that something was wrong. The man instead waved it off.

"You looked pretty spent from last night, bucko. Reckon it's my turn to get right pissed and enjoy meself some whores."

Edmonds spent the night lying in bed, thinking about a great many things: what the upcoming party would be like, about Caroline and the Old Man, the expedition to Denmark, his future, even more esoteric things that were beyond a simple soldier like him: the class system, the existence of God, why his mother had to have had a child. He found himself drifting into an uneasy sleep, dreaming of being a child and Caroline and the Old Man holding him like they were his parents.

He woke up not remembering much of it, and after his morning ritual, made his way to the tailor shop. He had not stopped by last night, hoping that Caroline perhaps would have picked it up or that it would have gotten delayed, or lost, or ruined...but alas, it was there.

"We were wondeing when you were going to arrive, Lieutenant," the man said, handing him the package. "After all the money your wife spent on it, too." With Caroline's commanding presence gone, the man seemed to view him in a somewhat lesser light, not surprisingly.

Edmonds took the package back to his quarters, afraid to open it and view what was within. He knew that he would have to wear it that night, that Caroline would be offended if he didn't; at the same time, he wasn't looking forward to having to explain to the Old Man where the money for it had come from, or lord about in his fancy clothing in front of Harry and his other lower-class comrades in arms.

Harry thankfully wasn't back by the time Edmonds decided it was time to start preparing for the soiree. Hurriedly shedding his real uniform (he couldn't help but think of it that way) he donned the new one, changing into it quickly and averting his glance from it as much as possible, ashamed to be wearing something bought for him by Caroline. Hurriedly leaving, he exited the quarters before anyone else who knew him could spot him and ask probing questions on the nature of his new funding.

Making his way across the city, he finally located a coach, and under an hour later had arrived at the Henderson estate. His heart was beating rapidly and he found his skin was sweaty as he disembarked, making his way towards the building.

"Please inform Colonel and Lady Henderson that Lieutenant Edmonds is here," he managed to say in a properly soldierly fashion to the doorman, steeling himself for the arrival of the no-doubt displeased Sir David.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Caroline Henderson

Lady Anne had not been best pleased when she got news that Caroline had invited a gentleman of military persuasion to her soiree. Or rather she had been somewhat distraught when she realised that the man in question was not Cornet Charles Vivian but rather the jumped-up Lieutenant Edmonds.

It was not that Lady Anne had something personal against the man. Far from it, if one managed to rise through the ranks it had to be commended, yet she somehow thought it prudent that the person kept up some appearence. Lady Anne had heard about men promoted from the ranks and she doubted the wisom of such, most likely they would turn to drink given that the common man did not understand the intricacies of polite society.

Caroline had been hit by the full frontal assault as Lady Anne eventually discovered her little scheme. It was not that Mama ever raised her voice. Rather she became more reasonable the angrier she got.

"I doubt that it is very wise Caroline. I know you mean well but the man is a commoner. He wouldn't understand nor appreciate poetry. Does he even read?"

Caroline had fumed but kept her temper trying to emulate Mama's strategy or rationality. "Of course he reads Mama, that is I believe necessary even to be made a sergeant. Besides I do read and I hate poetry, does that make me a commoner?"

"Don't be silly it doesn't befit you Caroline. Besides you ought to think about your station. Dallying with a commoner like that."

"He's an officer Mama and hence a gentleman, and Papa isn't of noble birth either."

Their argument had raged back and forth, none of them willing to budge prompting Sir David to interceed.

So there she was now, standing half a pace behind Papa as the guests arrived. Lt.Col Williams and his wife and a few other officers from the Regiment. She felt increasingly worried that Nicholas might not turn up, not knowing whether he owned a horse and had to rely on a coach or even walk?
Finally she heard the footman announce him, making her smile although she made sure of keeping her face away from Mama's stony stare.

"My God Nicholas you almost look the part now" Papa had slapped his arm as he shook his hand, admiring the new uniform. The scarlet tunic and the new white trousers made him really look like a gentleman as did his stiff manners.

Lady Anne did not share her husband's enthusiasm and gave Nicholas the briefest of nods as he kissed her hand. Caroline kept her distance, as long as Mama was in close proxemity she wouldn't risk anything that would give her more cause to frown at her.

Proceeding into the parlour where a young man where about to start reading. Keeping the audience in various stages of boredom or enthrallment. Caroline belonging to the former group together with Edmonds and Papa. She was curious to see that Williams seemed to enjoy the spectacle. Finally came the ending and refreshments was being served, giving Caroline a chance to speak to Nicholas again.

"I'm sorry if it's terribly boring but I wanted someone else to be on my side. It seems that everyone, even Lt.Col Williams enjoys this." Smiling shyly as she looked at him more closely "I must say that the uniform is very becoming Nicholas. I hope you're not cross with me for insisting on getting it."

He was about to reply when Williams approached. Seemingly a bit inebriated he bowed stiffly to Caroline and then slapped Nicholas on the shoulder.

"Well look at you Edmonds, quite the gentleman. It's very pleasing to see, now you just keep that gob of yours shut and you'll have everyone fooled."

Once again Caroline felt the anger flare up and before Nicholas could reply she had turned to Williams, her face flush as she spoke.

"You Sir are not a gentleman. I'm ashamed since you obviously do not posses the wits to be so yourself!"

Turning to Nicholas again. "Would you kindly escort me from the presence of this ruffian Mister Edmonds."