Monday, October 24, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 19 continued:

Carly was thoroughly enjoying the company of Deborah Thompson, her seamstress.  It was raining again, and only having come to visit and say hello, she ended up spending a couple hours of trying on gowns, helping to stitch some, and talking and laughing at secret revelations. 

            “I simply adore him, Lady Carly.  It has been my wish since my sixteenth birthday that he would propose marriage to me.”  Deborah was blushing as she divulged her secrets. 

            Carly’s eyes were wide in amazement at discovering the life, trials, and challenges that this young girl faced.  Realizing that Deborah’s life circumstances had been made better only because of the kindnesses and charity bestowed upon her family by Lord Huntington, and previously by his father, she was astonished at his tender heart towards his tenants and their families’ needs.  Embarrassed at any thoughts to the contrary that she had ever had. 

            “I must pass his family’s farm each morning on my way here, and he seems to always find a reason to be close by to say hello, or to walk with me a ways.  He is simply wonderful!”  Giggling together, Carly silently wondered what it would be like to be so in love.  Never having known love besides that which she held for her family and friends, she suddenly thought of Lord Huntington and blushed, pricking her finger.  Quickly putting it in her mouth, she listened to Miss Deborah babble. 

            “Matthew says I should not be walking alone and all, but I must get here somehow.  I think if he could, he would walk with me the entire way.”  Deborah was beaming a beautiful smile as her heart showed upon her face. 

“It has been almost a year since anyone has gone missing…I wonder why?  I am so glad, of course, but what has happened to them, do you not wonder?  My brother, Paul, says he thinks they are dead.” 

Looking at each other with horror on their faces, Carly exclaimed, “What a ghastly thought!” 

As Carly quickly turned ashen, Deborah swiftly changed the subject realizing Lady Carly’s tender heart.  “I have always wanted to be a June bride.  But June is upon us!  I am afraid it will not happen this year.” 

            “Would you not marry in any other month if your dear Matthew asked you?”  Carly was very curious. 

            “Of course, but I would be so disappointed.  June brides are so very lovely!” 

            “But you would look the same, silly—in love—that is how you would look,” Carly exclaimed. 

Contemplating Carly’s wise words for a moment, Deborah suddenly asked, “Would you like to see the flower he gave me only just this morning?”  Digging into her bag, Deborah pulled from it a tiny book.  Carefully she opened its pages and pulled from between them a tiny little purple flower that was flattened. 

“Is it not beautiful?”                                                                            

Carly saw that it was merely a small weed that had flowered, but she smiled at Deborah’s enthusiastic response to her special gift from the one she most adored. 

            “It is quite lovely, Deborah.  I am sure you will treasure it always.”  Amazed and wondering at what Deborah was feeling, she thought to herself that she would very much like to try out this thing called love and the subsequent fluttering of happiness that would accompany it.  She was very happy for her newest friend. 

Thanks for reading with me today.  Join me on Friday for a haunting waltz.  :)
Ellise

Monday, September 12, 2011 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 15:

Carly was led to a room she had never seen before.  It was tucked away upstairs for privacy.  On their way to this room, Millesant explained to Carly that this was where the seamstresses came to prepare new wardrobes.  The seamstress had everything she needed supplied for her here in this room.  Privacy curtains and dividing screens would be set up for fittings, she explained.  Outside the door, Millesant said excitedly, “Now you go in and enjoy yourself, milady.  I cannot wait to see you in your pretty new things.  We will have so much fun, will we not?”  Clapping her hands together eagerly, she then gave her a hug and was off on her way.  Carly was catching Millesant’s excitement as she entered the room and shut the door behind her. 

Mrs. Thompson, the housekeeper, came over to the door where Carly shyly stood and locked the door behind her, “So nice to see you today, my lady,” and taking her motheringly by the arm, led her over to a young girl.  “This lovely young lady is Lady Blakemore, Deborah, for whom your services have been requested.”  Mrs. Thompson introduced Carly to the seamstress, “Lady Blakemore, this is my granddaughter, Miss Deborah Thompson, my eldest son’s daughter.” 

Carly could hardly believe that Lord Huntington would go to so much trouble, and expense, for her alone.  As guilty as she felt, Carly was strangely eager, too. 

            Miss Thompson bobbed a curtsey and said, “How do you do, Lady Blakemore?” 

            “I am fine, thank you,” curtseying herself.  Carly suddenly realized that this young girl was the very one she had seen giggling with Lord Huntington in the salon.  So, he does dally with servants. 

Carly scolded herself for thinking so ill of either of them. 

            Mrs. Thompson again proudly chimed in, “I highly recommend Miss Thompson’s services and skills.” 

            I’m sure you do.  Again, unkind thoughts.  I must be better. 

Beaming a pleased smile towards her granddaughter, Mrs. Thompson announced, “She has been sewing for many ladies in the area, as well as Lord Huntington’s late wife, for,” she looked at her granddaughter for help, “how long dear?”

            “I would say, at least five years, grandmamma.” 

            “Yes, at least.  We are both so excited about this wardrobe, are we not Deborah?”  Deborah nodded vigorously, beaming from ear to ear.  “Deborah is a magical seamstress, my dear, and she will have you outfitted in no time at all.  Most importantly, we will have you well prepared for the Dowager Lady Elisabeth Huntington’s arrival and the inevitable balls and parties that will accompany her stay.” 

            “Balls…and parties?”  Carly forgot all else.  In fact, she had completely forgotten anything about such matters. 

            “Why, yes, my dear, and we have been instructed to make several ball gowns for you as your presence will be required at those special events.” 

Have you ever wished you could go clothes shopping but couldn't?  Well, I've figured it out...Just write about it.  :)  This way, you can have the biggest wardrobe ever!

Thanks for reading with me today.  Join me on Friday for more. 
Ellise

Friday, July 15th BiWeekly Blog -- The Governess -- Chapter 11 continued:

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 11 continued:

“Well, we ‘ope you’ll stay a bit longer than most governesses. They get spooked, I think. And rightly so!” Carly noticed Mr. Fisher warning his wife with a look. But she ignored him. “Any ribbon with that muslin? Mrs. Fielding—that was the last governess at the manor ‘ouse—always purchased ribbon when she was in town.” Mrs. Fisher’s eyebrows raised, and she hunched over the countertop to whisper to Carly. “Mrs. Fielding was always one to talk over tea.” She snickered. “Would you care for some tea?”

“Thank you, no.” She is annoying! “But I would like some lace, please.” Prying woman! Carly would have to watch her tongue.

Mr. Fisher stepped over handing his wife the scissors and frowning at her. With a sniff, she ignored him and moved from behind the counter to help Carly pick out the lace she wanted. “Lord Huntington has quite a reputation with the ladies, you know.” With eyebrows flashing again, Mrs. Fisher further inquired, “I’m sure you get an eyeful and earful of all that!” Mr. Fisher stepped over to his wife, glaring at her impudence. But still, the whole room seemed bent upon listening for the answer.

Carly felt no obligation to respond to this woman, or to the listening populace, for that matter. But she was disturbed to think on this subject. Lord Huntington a philanderer? It had crossed her mind!

After completing her shopping, the shopkeepers explained to Carly the different businesses that were found in the village which they were obviously proud of. She followed instructions to a small inn for some needed refreshment. In her wake, the Fisher’s argued over how long this latest governess would last. Even better, if she would become the lord’s latest conquest!

The jolly innkeeper and his merry wife were accommodating and kind, rather curious, with a few disconcerting customers that wouldn’t stop staring. Rather bold, she even overheard conversations about herself in relation to the earl. Bolder still, would she be his next conquest! Utterly disturbed, Carly took her fresh cider outside to a small table and chair where she could enjoy the village green and calm her harried nerves.

Such gossip! She must breathe.

Carly became aware of the chapel across the way, deciding she might like a turn in the yard just to become familiar with it. But she knew, in her heart, that she only missed home. And safety.

Before long, she was on her way back to Huntington Manor, happily swinging her satchel upon her arm. It was growing into a lovely morning! Aware of a small little meadow amongst a wood that she had determined to visit on her way back, she now detoured long enough to meander through the springtime medley of flowers, grasses, and trees still damp with dew. Busy bees went buzzing by on their way to work. Multi-colored butterflies flitted about determined to find a sweet, succulent drink among generously colored petals. Birds filled the silence with their melodious songs. She was awed at the simple majesty of the meadow and silently stood in the middle feasting her eyes upon the beauty she found. Closing her eyes she took in an invigorating breath and held it. Letting it out, she laughed out loud at the simple pleasures she found in nature.

Impulsively, she took the pins out of her hair, letting it fall down her shoulders and back. Carefully putting her pins into her bag, she put it down on the grass at her feet. Then, spinning around in circles, she let her arms and hair flow freely about her, gleefully laughing in her moment of private release.

Or so she thought…

Her private reverie interrupted? Find out Monday! :)
Thanks for reading with me!
Ellise ;)

Monday, July 11, 2011 -- BiWeekly Blog -- The Governess

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 11:

Carly skipped a few steps in her excitement, for she could not believe her good fortune!  Lord Huntington would be paying her in advance at the beginning of every month a more sizable sum than she had thought to receive.  She must be wise with her expenses, saving up for future rainy days as she had been taught to do.  Gratitude filled her heart, thinking that surely she would be able to do so with the generous raise she had already received. 

She was anxious to reach Dunford village and procure not only ribbon, lace, needle and thread to alter her gowns to last much longer, but to pick out material to make a new gown as well.  She could not bear to be anyone’s center of attention dressed in snug fitting gowns any longer.  Of course, Lord Huntington had insisted upon a new wardrobe to be ordered for her shortly, but in the meantime, she must be modestly attired. 

            It was a beautiful spring morning, and Carly was determined to make the most of it by walking the three miles into the small village, enjoying her much-loved outdoors.  She needed this precious restorative time to herself before her hours with the children.  The Huntington estate was immense and well-tended, and she enjoyed this time to ponder upon heaven’s creations about her.  Coming up over a rise, she saw that the village was engulfed in a misty haze that curved in and out between trees and cottages. 

“Beautiful!” she breathed. 

Nestled in the middle of the village, she could see the spire belonging to the town church peeking through the mist, and suddenly felt a pang of homesickness for her small village that resembled many like Dunford. 

In the distance, she could see an old bridge made from stone with many arches crossing a large waterway.  It must be very ancient, she decided.  As she approached the village, she began crossing the solid structure, noting that the mist was quickly burning off in the early sunshine.  She briefly wondered about the history of Dunfordshire, but only for a moment.  As she stepped from the bridge, she entered an enchanting world of winding streets and adorable cottages that immediately caught her breath away. 

At her right, a charming white cottage had bluish-purple wisteria climbing across the front of the home, shading the window and crossing over the doorway to continue around the side and up and down the chimney.  The large flowering clusters hung heavily, dangling upon the vines and perfuming the entire section of the village she was walking through.  This seemed to be a popular flower growing upon many of the village’s cottages and businesses. 

Soon she entered a cobblestoned walkway and knew she must be close to her destination when a little shop came into view displaying a hand-painted sign of a giant needle and spool of thread dangling over its front window. 

She entered, and upon meeting the shopkeeper and his talkative wife, quickly found they were both eager to help her and discover all they could about her, especially upon learning she was employed at the manor house. 

“Only two spools of thread, milady?” the proprietor, Mr. Fisher asked. 

“Thank you, yes.  The black and the white, please.  I still have thread at home.  But I do like the muslin there.” 

“Yes, of course, milady,” he smiled pleasantly, and taking up the scissors began cutting the fabric she would need. 

“And you like the manor ‘ouse, milady?”  Mrs. Fisher was nosier.  “And the master?” 

With the ensuing silence from the few customers and shopkeeper, Carly knew all ears were waiting for the latest gossip.  “I think the place will grow on me.” 

Gossip-mongers!  Always available and willing to share!  :) 

Hope you enjoyed this little tidbit.  Join me on Friday to see what happens. 

Thanks for reading with me!

Ellise ;)

Bi-Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 10 continued:       

     Carly’s face turned white as a sheet as she contemplated this request.  Astonished, she sat in silence for a moment as his request sank in, “Surely, you do not expect me to…want me to…but, I am your children’s governess.  I did not expect to be a part of your household in this way.” 

            “I am sure you did not.” 

            In Carly’s mind, she could see countless guests around the banquet table dressed in their finery.  Hers was so limited, she was sure to embarrass her master.  Looking down at her simple gown, she smoothed her skirt self consciously.  Mumbling, she whispered, “But…but, I do not have… I am sure I shall not fit in with your guests, my lord.” 

“Quite the contrary, my lady.  I think you will fit in very nicely.”  He contemplated the boring dinner parties of late.  How they piqued him!  Already he had had more interesting mealtimes spent with his governess than any in recent history.  He could not wait until tonight to see what next could possibly happen between them.  He had not been so entertained for quite some time.  It isn’t all bad, he thought.  Besides, her manners really were more than gracious.  He could tell that she had been groomed for society all her simple life. 

Creighton observed Lady Blakemore as she fidgeted with her hair, already nervous, it seemed, at putting a good foot forward.  Was she really that humble to not see her remarkable beauty that was apparent to all who must be in her company?  She undoubtedly was different from any lady, or governess for that matter, he had ever met. 

            “I have gone ahead and ordered a seamstress to come fit you for a new wardrobe.”  Holding up a hand to her immediate protests, he insisted, “I will supply this, since I am the one requiring this of you.  I believe it is good for ladies to remain socially engaged when possible, especially if you do not desire to get rusty in teaching my own children propriety and social etiquettes.  If I did not insist, my mother certainly would.  She will be joining us soon to live with us the rest of the year.  I would have to deal with her disappointment if this were not already taken care of for you.  Do you wish for me to be in trouble with my mother, Lady Blakemore?”  He was pleased with himself for sneakily figuring out how to renew her wardrobe. 

Watching him smile was fascinating, so opposite to his nature, but she shook her head, no.  But somehow she could not fathom this man being in trouble. 

“So, you see, it is of no use arguing with me on this point.  I wish you to be quite at home here.” 

            Shock showed upon her face as she said, “Yes, my lord.”  The beginnings of a frown creased her brow from worry. 

In addition to the dark circles under her eyes, his desire to keep her from distress prompted his next words.  “Are you up to meeting my children then?”  Her frown quickly disappeared, and she smiled an excited, enthusiastic smile, lighting the room.  Creighton kept his wonder to himself. 

“Oh yes, please, my lord!” 

Finally!  She's here to stay!  And...she finally 'officially' meets the children!  What an overprotective parent!  Can anyone else relate?  I can! :)  Find out more reasons why Lord Huntington is the way he is. 

Join me on Friday! 
Ellise ;)