Colonel Fitzwilliam's Story
Chapter 1: Part 1: Orders
Colonel Fitzwilliam was enjoying a brief respite from the daily drudgery of drilling his company in the fine art of musket fire and hand-to-hand combat. It had been a month of marching, musket practice and a mixture of swordsmanship and bayonet drills. Although he was quite skilled in the art of swordplay, the more dangerous skill of learning to dodge and thrust with the long pike staffs mounted on the ends of muskets was tiring to both student and instructor.
It had been nearly a decade now that the Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte had been ranging about Europe. First raising a massive army in France and then striking out against all of his neighbors on the Continent. First Spain, then Italy and Germany had been duped into submission and offered arms and men to assist him in his conquests. For all of Napoleon's mighty talents as a General he seemed to throw them all away in his desire to be Emperor of all that he surveyed. After subjugating smaller realms, he seemed to squash the desires of the people and never quite fulfill the hopes and dreams of freedom that he often inspired.
During just this past terrible year Bonaparte had decided to invade Russia and had allied himself with Sweden in the quest. Slowly but surely all the minds and opinions of those desiring freedom had begun to swing against him. Starting out that year his Grand Armee had numbered over 600,000 men. The fears of the British began to be raised that after Russia, Britain would be next.
Colonel Fitzwilliam thought back to that pleasant time just a few months past when he had been visiting with his cousin Mr. Darcy and had even had the pleasure of attending with him at Rosings in May and meeting the charming Miss Bennet. With the coming of summer the calls for his attendance at drills and daily army exercises he had had few respites. In August the news of the Battle at Smolensk had put the British forces on a heightened need for training. The French had won at a great cost of men and materials and they were fighting on their own territory. If the British were to join in the battle, they would need to fight on strange territory and at the end of long supply lines.
In a letter received from Darcy in late August, Colonel Fitzwilliam had learned that Darcy had again seen Miss Bennet while she was on an extended holiday in Derbyshire. Reading between the lines, the Colonel could see what a profound effect that Elizabeth Bennet was having on his cousin. Having met the young lady himself, he was not at all surprised. She was everything that a man could want. Young, pretty, and possessing a wit and keen intelligence that set her apart from nearly every lady of his own acquaintance. The Colonel was pleased to see that his staid cousin was at last beginning to appreciate what a truly fine woman could do for him. He had nearly been tempted to take another brief furlough to visit Pemberley and to encourage Darcy in whatever way that he could to finally settle down and take a wife. And he could think of no lady more worthy of becoming Darcy's bride than this fine young lady from Hertfordshire.
That morning, however, word had been received that Napoleon had just entered Moscow on September 12. During the next few weeks, word continued to flow in about the destruction that the French were wreaking on the city, with constant fires and acts of brutality. Word had even been received that the French had carried away the venerable Iron Cross from atop one of Moscow's famous cathedrals. The British Crown began preparations for assisting in every way possible to begin to thwart further expansion westward of the Emperors' ambitions. Thus, when the joyful word arrived in late October of Darcy's engagement to Miss Bennet it was followed later the same day of the Battle of Maloyaroslavets of October 24th. The French had been resoundingly defeated and had turned an orderly withdrawal into a stampede. Word was later received that even Napoleon had nearly been captured by a band of Cossack troops as he passed through Borodino.
With the seeming defeat of Napoleon and the subsequent attempt of a band of conspirators in Paris to overthrow the Emperor, the Colonel had requested and received a furlough to attend his cousin's wedding. The pleasure of seeing his cousin again and the opportunity to meet Miss Bennet provided him with just that break he had needed.
But the military planners knew that Napoleon had been counted out many times before. He had always seemed to surprise his enemy at the right moment and with just the right forces to destroy what had at first appeared to be a great victory and make it a terrible defeat. British garrisons were being beefed up and military training was being extended. On the very day that Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet were married December 18, word was received that Bonaparte had arrived back in Paris and was attempting to raise a new army to help in his dreams of conquest.
It was now late January in 1813 and the return to his duties had been required of him due to the serious nature of the situation on the Continent. As he opened the orders just delivered to him by his lieutenant the Colonel's visage became more serious and his eyebrows raised in consideration of the words and message conveyed on the page.
To: Colonel Richard FitzwilliamFrom: Office of the Commanding General, British Forces
Sir:
You are hereby ordered to ready your garrison for immediate service.
Please issue muskets and sufficient powder and musket balls for an extended assignment. All men are to be outfitted with heavy winter garments and coats. Sufficient provisions are to be made for them for a duty assignment that will involve an overseas assignment. Whatever horses, wagons, and other needs you may have must be provided for forthwith. Please make sure that sufficient food and provisions commissioned as may be needed for a tour of not less than six months.
Please notify this office within the week as to your estimated time of preparation. Arrangements will be made for you to join with the main body of the British Forces and transportation aboard one of His Majesty's Ships at your earliest convenience. Further details will follow upon receipt of your estimate.
This information is to be considered of the most private nature and is not to be discussed publicly. We await your earliest reply.
"Well," the Colonel mused, "it seems that our time has come at last." With that he turned and requested the lieutenant to have the quartermaster report to him at once.
Chapter 1 part 2
"Quartermaster Mabry Richardson reporting as ordered, Sir." The Quartermaster for Colonel Fitzwilliam's' Battalion of British Rifle Corps, was a tallish, slender man of 26 years with a shock of blond hair. Colonel Fitzwilliam knew that the man's knowledge of the needs and supplies for a garrison on field assignment would prove valuable. Richardson had prior combat service and had seen action in Spain under the command of Sir John Moore's campaign against the French in 1808.
"Richardson," began the Colonel "We are to be called up for duty and need to begin preparations for an extended assignment on the Continent. The orders that I have received inform me that there will be a need for extensive provisions of both personnel needs such as uniforms, Shakos, cartridge pouches, woolen coats, blankets, and the like. In addition the military supplies required will be of such a nature that I shall have to meet with Lord Cameron to obtain the necessary additional funds."
The Quartermaster was gravely serious as he consulted with the Colonel regarding the supplies of warfare. To be sought out and obtained were 500 barrels of gunpowder, Thousands of rounds of musket ball and shot were needed as well as 100 cases of flints for the muskets and cannons, 50,000 pounds of Saltpeter and beef. Innumerable wagons, mules, drays, and drivers would be needed to transfer the items to whatever destination would be decided for embarkation.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam," queried Richardson "Do you have a set date and destination for the assignment yet?"
"No, and I fear that our departure may not be as imminent as I would desire. Although our various companies are manned for regular guard duties, I am afraid that we are not nearly so well equipped as will be needed for any duties outside of England. As of now we have about 400 men in the various companies under my command. The men are ready for duty, of course, and many are among the best marksmen that I have known. However, the weather on the Continent is poor at this time of year and we may have some hard times ahead in gathering together all of the required supplies and then getting them transported to the coast."
"Yes Sir, that is quite true." Richardson mused. "Although we have a number of wagons on hand for transport, there will not be nearly so many as needed for the size of operations that you are implying. It will be necessary to recruit drivers and wagons from the area. I will myself begin the preparations. I have several good officers under my command who are quite familiar with the county, sir, and should prove most valuable in acquiring the supplies."
"Quite good, Richardson. I shall need continuing reports regarding your progress. I have been asked to give an estimate as to the time required to bring our forces to strength and ready for travel. I should think that we should be able to do the calculations and complete an inventory listing of needed items within 5 days. I will need that information in order to provide Lord Cameron with more exacting figures on monies needed for purchases."
"Sir, Yes sir. I shall have the listing compiled and ready for your review by that time. Do you have any further orders at this time, sir?" Richardson queried.
"No. Please commence your effort at once, and notify me immediately of any problems that you encounter."
Richardson curtly saluted and turned to leave for his assignment, leaving the Colonel to continue his musings over the duties that were before him. As the Colonel of an English Rifle Brigade it was his duty to supply and equip all men assigned to him. This was normally not of any significant problem, due to the usual nature of his experience. The Colonel himself had also seen action in Spain and was familiar with the requirements of war. However, this would be his first major campaign as a commander. During his duty on the Spanish Peninsula he had served only as a Lieutenant and not been charged with full authority.
His Battalion or Infantry unit consisted of four companies of men. Each of these was a tactical unit of about one hundred men each. There was a good mix of both regular riflemen and cannoneers. To command such a group within the boundaries of England meant merely ensuring the lodging and regular garrison of men. Seeing to their needs for food and rations while on duty locally was no problem -- on the other hand, having to obtain all of the same supplies for their daily needs while in a foreign land was a whole other matter. The units would require transportation including wagons of every sort of size and description. Mules and horses to pull them would have to be purchased.
This was only one of many issues now facing Colonel Fitzwilliam. While on local duty the chores of carpentry, blacksmithing, cooking and the like were handled fairly easily and many of the men returned to their own homes for meals and changes of clothing. This could not be done on foreign assignment. All categories of needs would have to be seen to and organized through his leadership. Funds were not an issue, since his unit was totally supplied for by Lord Cuthbert Cameron, a distant relative of the Royal Family. Whenever funds were needed, the Colonel had only to notify Lord Cameron's steward and sufficient amounts were made readily available.
That was the normal way of things, but this was not going to be a "normal' assignment and would require a very large amount of funding and would therefore need to be brought to Lord Cameron's attention as soon as possible.
"Lieutenant Wilson. Please see that my carriage is made ready. I shall be traveling to London. I will also be sending a dispatch to Lord Cameron shortly. Please notify the courier to attend me within the half-hour. I shall have further orders for you as soon as I complete my message." With that Colonel Fitzwilliam turned and returned to his barracks office to transcribe the message to Lord Cameron that he would be arriving in London on the day following and required an immediate audience. Additional message were also written to the commanders of the four squadrons who served under his command notifying them of the need to begin preparations for overseas assignment
Chapter 1 Part 3
Lord Cuthbert Cameron was a distant cousin of the Royal Family. Of vast independent wealth himself, one of his interests in life was that of defending The British Empire, which he did by raising various regiments and army units at his own private expense. Lord Cameron, a Tory, believed in the Divine Right of Kings to rule and supported this through his armed forces.
It was late in the evening as Colonel Fitzwilliam arrived at his parent's townhouse in London. Dismounting from the carriage Colonel Fitzwilliam gave orders to the servant to have the horses stabled and fed and the driver with him quartered and his needs addressed for the night. He had not had sufficient time to send notice ahead to notify them of his arrival therefore the greeting upon entering the door was not a surprise.
"Richard," Countess Matlock exclaimed as she was just then arriving at the bottom of the staircase. "This is a pleasant surprise. When did you arrive in London, son? Let me give you a kiss."
"Hello, Mother," the Colonel responded with a smile and gave Lady Fitzwilliam a warm embrace. "I have just now arrived and will not be able to stay in town for more than a day or two, depending on some important military duties that I have to complete."
"Well then, Richard, let us go up and see your Father. He is in the drawing room above. We have been out to the opera this evening and only arrived home a short while ago. You must be hungry after your long journey. We have not had supper yet and I was in the midst of conferring with the cook regarding some special dishes of kidney and steaks that your father is wanting this evening."
"Yes, mother, that sounds quite good. I am really quite famished and could stand some poached eggs and muffins if there are any to be had."
"Very good then, why don't you run along up to your father and surprise him, while I continue on to speak with Della regarding the meal tonight." With that she turned and continued down the lower stairway to the basement where the kitchen was located.
"Hello, Father," the Colonel intoned in his soft tenor voice as he entered the parlour. "I am just now arrived in London and will be staying at least through this evening."
"Why...hello son, we did not know that you were coming. We were just making supper arrangements. Let me ring down for the kitchen servants to let them know to that we shall have a third member to our party," Lord Matlock intoned.
"No, that will not be necessary, Father. I met mother just as I was arriving and she has already undertaken that chore. Please, let us sit for a while."
"Yes, that's just how your mother is. I always tell her that the servants can handle the cooking, but you know her -- she always enjoys taking a personal interest in the food and has gone to make sure that my kidneys and steaks are going to be done just so with the right wine sauce. Well then, Richard let me at least offer you some Port. I have just opened a fresh bottle." Lord Matlock gestured to the butler to have a glass poured.
"Yes, that does sound good. My throat is rather dry after the long trip from ____shire," as he received the fresh glass. The Colonel seated himself in one of the comfortable chairs not far from the warm fireplace and enjoyed the feel of the liquor as it warmed his insides as the fire warmed his feet.
"Well, son. How have you been and what brings you to London on such a cold and dreary night?"
"Ah, Father. I have just arrived here and will be seeking an audience with Lord Cameron in the morning."
At just this moment Lady Matlock entered the parlour causing both men to rise in greeting.
"Rebecca," queried Lord Matlock "Richard was just telling me that he will be seeing Lord Cameron in the morning."
"Oh? And may we be told the reason for the visit? You do not often come to town just to visit Lord Cameron. It must be a matter of great significance," Lady Matlock ventured.
"Well ...Mother, ...Father. This is not for general publication and I do not wish you to repeat this outside this room, but I have received orders that my Regiment may be posted overseas in the near future."
"Oh, son," Lord Matlock interjected. "This is news indeed. We have been hearing reports of the war on the Continent now almost daily. Why...just today we have been hearing reports about how badly the war has been going for Napoleon in Russia."
"Yes, Father. Our latest reports were dated about a month ago and are very encouraging. We have heard that Old Boney has lost nearly 600,000 men in his futile attempts to conquer Russia."
"That is incredible, son," Lady Matlock cried. "How can he possibly go on with his army suffering such terrible losses?"
"Well, Mother. I have heard that Bonaparte counts himself alone and his military skills as worth some 100,000 men. And based on his history and all of the many battles that he has won against insurmountable odds, I can not but believe that there may be a good bit of truth to that assumption. If and when the British Army would come up directly against him in battle I know that he will prove to be one of the hardest enemies that we will ever fight."
At this point the discussion was temporarily interrupted as supper was announced and the party moved to the dining room. The conversation regarding the war was continued at length that evening over a supper of kidneys and steaks, along with the special items requested by the Colonel, as well as a great loaf of the house bread with butter served on a wooden trencher.
At length, Colonel Fitzwilliam indicated his need to retire, having a number of special duties that he would need to complete on the morrow.
The Colonel then took his leave of his parents, "Good night, Mother, ...Father. I shall probably rise early in the morning and be on my way. I will keep you informed of my situation as I am able."
"Very well, son. Good night. Please take care of yourself." Lady Matlock added.
Chapter 2 -- Part 1 A visit with Lord Cameron and a houseguest
(Wherein the author offers a distraction to the Colonel to take his mind off of military matters for a moment -- chuckle!)
Though Colonel Fitzwilliam had been a visitor to Lord Cameron's London townhouse on a number of occasions in the past he had never failed to be impressed. After he mounted the large stone staircase and approached the massive oaken doors a rather large butler greeted him.
"Hello, Wilkins. I have urgent business and need to have an audience with Lord Cameron this morning."
"Sir, ...Lord Cameron has asked me to inform you that he has received your message and will meet with you shortly in the library. Please let me take your coat and hat. If you would come this way I will show you the way."
The Colonel, after removing the requested items and shaking most of the snow from his boots, proceeded through the doorway and was greeted by one of the most imposing sights imaginable. The entrance foyer opened up to a larger landing area at the base of a massive staircase. On the walls surrounding him were mounted a collection of the most finely polished muskets with mounted bayonets. Directly overhead there was a collection of 50 muskets mounted to the ceiling in two huge semicircles, while along both the walls and running up the stairway there were an additional 150 of these tools of warfare. The whole appearance was designed to give the impression of one that has power and knows how to utilize it.
Passing through the foyer and up the staircase the Colonel was lead down a short hallway to the main library.
"Sir, may I be of service to you. Lord Cameron may be a few minutes and has asked that I provide any refreshments that you may desire."
"Why...Yes, Wilkens. I could use a spot of hot tea. It has been a rather long and cold drive this morning."
"Very good, sir. I shall have it brought in directly," Wilkens replied as he turned to have the Colonel's request completed.
Colonel Fitzwilliam turned to continue into the library and took up a position near the warm fireplace with it's crackling fire. The weather outside was cold and bleak. It had been snowing overnight and the trek to Lord Cameron's home had been difficult and tedious as the horses had struggled against the heavy snowbanks. The Colonel was quite happy, just now, to have the warmth of the fire seep into his bones to bring relief to the cold extremities of his arms and feet. In doing so he hardly noticed as there was the soft rustle of a silken skirt across the marble entranceway into the library. In fact he had remained in this position for several moments rubbing his hands before he heard a slight cough behind him.
As he turned to greet the person whom he believed would be Lord Cameron his mouth fell slightly open in wonderment at the first sight of the lady who had entered shortly before. The first thing that anyone would notice about her was her hair. Descending around her pale shoulders and twisted into the most intricate of designs and curls, it was of a most pleasing texture of a darkened red. Her facial complexion was of the most exquisite nature and seemed to give off a soft glow. Her brilliant smile revealed two pearly rows of perfectly formed teeth, which at present seemed to be speaking some kind of greeting of which the Colonel had not heard a word due to his utter astonishment at the vision before him.
"Please forgive me, I was distracted just now and am ashamed to admit that I did not exactly hear all that you were saying," Colonel Fitzwilliam blushed as he spoke. "Would you mind repeating again? I promise that I shall pay more careful attention this time."
The lady's face became even more beautiful, if that were possible, to Colonel Fitzwilliam as her lips turned upward into the most pleasing smile and he could hear a soft burst of laughter which she demurely hid from his sight by sudden flicker of a silk fan to her mouth.
"Yes, Colonel Fitzwilliam, I believe? My uncle, Lord Cameron, has begged me to inform you that he is unavoidably detained at the moment and will be here shortly."
Colonel Fitzwilliam strode across the room towards the visitor and bowed impeccably just as he reached her position. "Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, at your service, ma'am. It is my unfortunate position to inform you that until this very moment, I was totally unaware that Lord Cameron had a niece of such extraordinary beauty. ...And may I have the additional honor of receiving your name?"
"Why, certainly Colonel Fitzwilliam. My name is Violetta...Violetta Rosborough." She offered with another pleasing smile as took her hand and raised it to his lips brushing her fingers lightly with a kiss in greeting.
"It is a great honor to meet you, Violetta. Please come over by the fire where we may warm ourselves. I fear that I have had a long carriage ride in the snow to get here and feel a bit chilled," the Colonel offered his arm, which he was very pleased to receive her delicate hand as he led her across the room. "...And what brings you to London, Miss Rosborough, if I may be so bold to inquire?"
"We have been visiting with my Uncle for the past few weeks from our home in Essex. I have a great interest in music and the opera season here at both Drury Lane and also Convent Garden has much more to offer than I find in Essex. Do you often attend the theatre, Colonel Fitzwilliam?"
"Not nearly as much as I would like, Miss Rosborough. I do have a great enjoyment in the arts and especially music. I do not play an instrument myself but do enjoy singing from time to time. It gives me great pleasure in hearing many of the fine Viennese opera singers that are found visiting in London. I take every opportunity that I can, when away from my regular duties, to attend at Covent Garden, where my cousin Darcy has a subscription box."
Colonel Fitzwilliam could have spent the remainder of the morning speaking with his new acquaintance, but his enjoyment was interrupted at this point by the entrance of Lord Cameron, followed shortly thereafter by a servant bringing the tea service.
"Ahh...Colonel Fitzwilliam. It is a pleasure. ...And I see that you seem to have met my niece, Violetta, already." Lord Cameron intoned with his rich bass voice to the Colonel. Then turning to his niece, "Violetta, I am sure I can detect from the look on his face that the Colonel would be most content to spend the rest of the day in your company, but we must beg your forgiveness. The Colonel and I have some important matters to discuss. I thank you for being so kind and offering to attend to him while I was detained."
"Certainly, Uncle Cameron. The Colonel and I were just having the most pleasant discussion regarding music before you came. It is of all subjects my most favourite," she responded. Then turning to Colonel Fitzwilliam, "Colonel, It has been a great pleasure to meet you and should have the opportunity arise in the future, I would happy to continue our discussion."
"Indeed, Miss Rosborough, it was my honor to meet you. I would hope that I should have the good fortune to continue your acquaintance." Colonel Fitzwilliam offered a curt bow in farewell as Miss Rosborough turned to leave.
Lord Cameron lips could be seen to turn upward in a smile as he watched the Colonel's eyes and face as they followed each movement of his niece's form as she crossed the marble entranceway and disappeared from view. Though he was long past the age when such things occupied all of his thoughts, he was not so ignorant of the effects that his beautiful niece had on his younger male protege.
"...And so, Colonel Fitzwilliam, what important business brings you to London on such a cold and snowy day at this?"
Chapter 2 part 2
It had now been over 4 hours since Lord Cameron had been ensconced in the library with Colonel Fitzwilliam in some rather detailed discussion of the current state of the various companies that made up the regiment under the command of Colonel Fitzwilliam.
Lord Cuthbert Cameron's family and wealth stemmed from a long history of mining and munitions making enterprises that had stretched back more than 300 years. Much of the lead ore that was used in the making of musket and cannon balls was mined directly in the Derbyshire district. Colonel Fitzwilliam was familiar with many of the mines and abhorred the awful, degrading conditions that were the result. Colonel Fitzwilliam could not but help think of many of the people who would be needed to help in outfitting his men. Many of these people worked for mines and factories owned and operated by Lord Cameron and his family.
During his years of experience and visits with his cousin Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam had often had occasion to observe and had on occasion visited some of the mining areas near Pemberley in the Peak's area. The Colonel had seen many sights to cause him to regret the need for such squalor and degradation to be inflicted on humankind. On one occasion the Colonel had encountered a poor woman and her children living in a cave in the side of one of the peaks. Upon entering her "home-cave' he had observed that it was a large hollowed-out cave, which the poor woman had hung two curtains across the entrance to form a kind of door. On one side of the cave was a chimney that connected to a funnel fed up through a shaft hewn through the rough stones to allow the smoke a place to escape.
The whole condition of the area was squalor, but here the woman had managed to present an area that was reasonably clean and neat, though mean and ordinary. There were shelves mounted in the walls upon which there were items of earthenware, some pewter and brass. There was a whole side of bacon hanging up the chimney, and by its' side a portion of another. Outside the cave were a sow and pigs running about the "door', and a little lean cow feeding upon a green place.
The Colonel had asked the poor woman where her husband was and she had replied that he was working in the lead mines about 2 miles hence. She also stated that she helped him as much as she was able. The husband earned about 5 pence per day in the filthy mines and the wife received 3 pence per day if she worked very hard at washing the ore. Feeling pity for the poor family, the Colonel had handed her a little lump of money at the sight of which the poor soul had nearly fainted before bursting into tears.
The Colonel later went to see the mine and what he had found appalled him. There were numerous small holes in the ground down which the miners crawled. Just then a hand appeared out of one of the grooves. This was shortly followed by an arm, next a head, and finally a body, if it could so be called. A scrawny human frame clothed all in leather with a brimless leather hat. The miner carried a few tools in a small basket. His body was as lean as a skeleton, his skin gray as a corpse. When the Colonel had tried to speak to him, all that came out was an unintelligible jumble.++
The Colonel knew that many such people would be needed to help supply the lead for the muskets and cannon and regretted very much the need. However, nothing could be done, but he had always resolved that were it ever in his power he would do whatever that he could to help these desperate people.
Lord Cameron had outlined how much of the needed supplies may be ready within the month; other items would take longer. Arrangements for overseas passage would have to be made, and Lord Cameron assured Colonel Fitzwilliam that he would undertake those himself. Plans were organized to send out procurement offices to several of the larger "Fairs' in the area. One such was the ____bridge Fair, which was usually held in a large empty cornfield near ____ton. Here the booths were filled with the wares of goldsmiths, milliners, drapers and clothiers, medicines, along with tables filled with cooked foods that could be stored and transported, jugs and vast other amounts of goods that could easily be used to supply the men for the voyage.
The needs of the asundry other duties could be filled by visiting one of the "living' fairs such as in ____shire village where men and women offered themselves out for hire by holding out the appropriate tool of their trades, a brush, a carter's whip, a shovel. Carter's and wagonneers were distinguished by having a piece of whipcord twisted around their hats. This allowed the hirers to obtain many of the right people at a glance.
While the plans for the purchases and hiring of laborers had dragged on both men had come to a firm agreement regarding the ready status of the four separate companies. Neither man was completely satisfied with the results. Lord Cameron's Regiments had always been designed as rather either a coastal defense unit or light infantry units for utilization within the regular English territories. To face a call up that would involve a long-term overseas assignment, much further planning and effort would need to be committed. Lord Cameron was in total agreement with Colonel Fitzwilliam on most all procurement issues and was ready and willing to offer whatever financial commitments would be required. The major sticking point seemed to be the amount of time that would be required to fulfill all obligations. Tents, traveling gear, and hundreds of other items not currently on hand would have to be procured, transported to designated sites and some training in the set up and then storage of much equipment not normally used would be needed.
The Colonel had also undertaken another mission during the meeting regarding the young lady whom he had met earlier in the day. He had determined to find out whatever that he could about the young lady who had greeted him earlier. Miss Rosborough had made a good impression on the Colonel and he meant to find a means of learning all that could be politely inquired after, that is without being too obvious on the subject. On a number of occasions throughout the meeting his mind had turned briefly back to this enchanting young lady and from time to time he had been able to offer several inquiries. Lord Cameron had been able to respond in an equally casual manner, not giving too many hints that he was quite aware of what the handsome young Colonel was about.
To wit, the Colonel had learned that Miss Rosborough was the daughter of Lord Cameron's sister; had attained the age of 21; been educated thoroughly in language arts and could both speak and read and write in both Italian and French quite fluently. In addition, she was an accomplished player of the fortepiano. Also, it seems that she would receive a very large dowry upon her marriage. Exactly how much, Lord Cameron did not offer, but seemed to indicate that it would be quite extensive, as Lord Cameron's sister had had no other children, and while their own Estate was entailed away to a male relative they meant to provide substantially for their daughter and her chosen mate.
"Well, Colonel," Lord Cameron concluded with polite gesture. "I would say that we will not be able to arrive a firm commitment this morning, and as I now see by the clock on the mantle it is clearly no longer morning but near mid-afternoon, and past time for our afternoon meal. Please let me extend you an invitation to dine with us, as it seems to have been snowing on and off now for quite a bit of the time that we have been involved in our negotiations. It would seem that it would take you several hours of hard driving to make it through the streets back to Lord Matlock's."
"Oh, Lord Cameron...I would not want to interrupt any plans that you may have made already. Let me be on my way, and I will dine another time," Colonel Fitzwilliam tendered, not too wholeheartedly, as he gazed out the window at the mounting layers of snow in the street and the drudgery of the long trip in the cold on an empty stomach.
"Nonsense, my friend. Neither Lady Cameron nor I would hear of such," Lord Cameron stated as he rose from his chair. " I would not want to have to face your father if something were to happen to you amidst all this snow and you came away without some little sustenance. Let's have no more of that. You are to dine with us this afternoon, and let that be the end of it. Besides, there will be other company to attend to besides an old fool such as myself. We would not want to disappoint the ladies now, would we?" The smile and raise of the dark gray eyebrows on Lord Cameron's face left no doubt as to exactly whom he was referring.
"Well...since you put it that way, how could I ever refuse? I do need to see to it that my driver's needs are also cared for. I had not originally intended to remain so long." Colonel Fitzwilliam rose, as if to leave and handle the matter personally.
Lord Cameron gestured him to return, at the same time ringing the bell down for the house servant. "Very well, then Colonel. I will send word down to have his meal available and notify him that you will be on your way by about 5 o'clock, if that is satisfactory."
"Certainly, sir. I am at your service," the Colonel responded now beginning to look forward to a much more pleasant afternoon than he had originally thought might be in the offering.
Lord Cameron then took his leave to find Lady Cameron and the remainder of his family to notify them that Colonel Fitzwilliam would stay for the meal and be off shortly thereafter. After all arrangements had been completed the party descended to the library where introductions were made all "round. In addition to Lord and Lady Cameron, were Miss Rosborough and her parents.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam," Lord Rosborough greeted him with a strong handshake and a broad smile. "It is a pleasure to meet you. Our daughter was telling us earlier how she had already had the pleasure of your acquaintance on a mission from my dear brother Cameron."
"Yes, Lord Rosborough," the Colonel offered. "That is quite true, and may I also take this opportunity of telling you that rarely has a messenger ever served their duty so well. Unfortunately, I must admit that I was a bit startled upon my first notice of her that I quite lost track of myself and was forced to beg her forgiveness in not hearing her first entreaty to me."
"Ah yes...but let me inform you that this same situation has happened to more than one young gentleman of our acquaintance and I think that I can begin to comprehend the problem. It must be some kind of new disease passing around the country, don't you think, Lady Rosborough?" Lord Rosborough teased.
"You are quite correct, dear." Lady Rosborough retorted with a smile. "Our dear Violetta does seem to cause some sort of distraction to the young men."
All of this discussion merely served to cause a deep blush to come over the cheeks of the aforementioned lady, who quickly endeavored to enter the conversation and somehow redirect the main topic. As the Colonel studied her face he determined that she favored her mother very much. With a soft nose which ended in the cutest dimple. Her eyes were of a deep blue that seemed the color of a soft robin's breast. Her skin was seemed of the most exquisite marble. When she smiled, which she seemed to do quite frequently, her teeth were of the purest white. Her expressions seemed always lively and full of merriment, and she was quite at ease in company. But of all her features that he kept returning to was the beautiful folds of the most delicious red hair that the Colonel had ever beheld.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam.... I am given to understand that you are the cousin of the Darcy's. Would that be Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley." Violetta queried breaking the Colonel out of his moment of reverie.
"Oh, yes, Colonel," Lady Rosborough added. "We had read recently that Darcy has been married at long last. We have been well acquainted with him for several years and had begun to think that he would never find any woman who could ever live up to his high standard. Are you well acquainted with the new Mrs. Darcy? If you could give us any knowledge of her, we would be most appreciative."
Colonel was more than happy to respond to this, as his acquaintance with the former Miss Elizabeth Bennet had been of the most pleasant nature and he had been able to converse with her a great length during his stay at Rosings Park, as well as on several occasions during the week of the couples marriage in December.
"Yes, Lady Rosborough. I am well acquainted with Mrs. Darcy. She is the former Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn Estate in Hertfordshire. She is the second of a family of five daughters. My cousin Darcy and she were married in a double wedding ceremony along with her older sister Miss Jane Bennet to a close friend of Darcy's, Mr. Charles Bingley. I had the great good fortune to meet her while I was visiting with my Aunt Lady Catherine De Bourgh of Rosings Park. Mrs. Darcy is a woman of a great many talents. Not the least among them is her abilities in playing and singing. She has a way with a song that is a delight to the ear and a joy to the heart."
At this point the party was notified that dinner was announced and the group proceeded to the dining room where they were seated. Colonel Fitzwilliam had the good fortune to be seated directly across from Miss Rosborough and her father beside her. Next to his left was Lady Rosborough between the Colonel and Lord Cameron who was at the head of the table. Lady Cameron was at the opposite end. The pleasant conversation continued, with the Colonel telling the party much of what he knew of the lady with the "fine eyes' who had so totally captivated his cousin's heart.
"Ah, Colonel," at one point Violetta interjected. "That is such a romantic tale. I am sure that your cousin and Miss Bennet must have been designed for each other. I have rarely heard of such fortune in a marriage partner. You know, it has been the general rule in Essex where we live that many of the men routinely have from 5 to 15 or 16 wives.++ I do not believe that I would enjoy such a situation myself. I would much prefer one such as your cousin where I might have my husband all to myself!" Upon saying this Miss Rosborough must have later reflected a bit upon the full meaning of her words as she colored slightly and seemed to look to her mother for some assistance in escaping from such a delicate subject.
"Colonel..." Lady Rosborough queried politely, somehow grasping her daughter's plight -- but equally interested in determining the situation of the young officer to her right, "you have told us at length of your cousin and his new wife. ...But is there no young lady who pines alone at home for yourself? You are such a handsome young officer and I dare say, you must surely have several young ladies in tow."
Colonel Fitzwilliam colored slightly at the question, but was able to offer a retort with a stifled laugh. "Unfortunately not, Lady Rosborough. Although I would wish it were so, I have yet to find that "special lady' for myself. My cousin has been blest with the happy chance of finding his own dream. I am, as yet unfettered. Being only the second son of an Earl, forces me to be most careful in my choice."
The Colonel now endeavored to change the subject matter to something much more pleasant. "Lady Rosborough, when I was being so delightfully entertained earlier in the library by your charming daughter, she had mentioned that you had recently been to the Opera. I try to get to the Opera whenever I make it to London. Pray tell me what works have you enjoyed at the theatre?"
"Well, I wish that I could inform you, but I am afraid that that is a subject much more in Violetta's interest. We saw an Italian farce, I believe, something about a ladder. Violetta, can you not remember the opera?"
"Oh yes, mother. It was a new opera by the Italian composer Rossini. The name was La scala di seta or The Silken Ladder. It was most enjoyable. It's all about this young lady whose guardian is trying to marry her off to a young army officer..." again the young lady colored slightly as she realized the possible import of the story.
"And what happened?" queried the Colonel with a mischievous smile.
"Well, it all turns out well in the end," Miss Rosborough continued. "It seems that the young lady is already married in secret to another officer who is a friend of the young man favored by her guardian. It was all very funny, and involved a lot of intrigues. The heroine convinces her cousin to fall in love with the officer favored by the guardian and she escapes to her husband down a silken ladder."
"It all sounds wonderful. And did the music seem interesting?" The Colonel queried.
"Oh yes. There were many wonderful melodies and a lot of rhythmic styles. I very much like this young composer. I understand that he is only about 20 years old."
"Miss Rosborough, you had indicated that you have some skill at the fortepiano? What kinds of music do you play? Are you partial to the Italian styles?"
"I enjoy all types of works. We do not have so much in the way of theatre life or concerts in Essex, and so I am limited in my familiarity with the larger concert works. Most of what I play is of the chamber music style, such as sonatas and small vocal melodies as I am able to obtain. Are you much familiar with that type of music?"
"To a certain extent, yes. My cousin Darcy has a sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy, who is also quite accomplished on the fortepiano. I have had the pleasure to hear her perform a number of rather challenging works during my visits to Pemberley.
"When I was last at Pemberley she was working on a beautiful work by Beethoven...I believe that it was called The Moonlight Sonata. Are you at all familiar with this work?"
"Oh yes. I quite agree. The opening movement with its' beautiful arpeggios is exquisitely written, do you not think? It is one of my favorite pieces."
Lady Rosborough, though not a musician herself, did appreciate the skills of her daughter and always enjoyed listening to the beautiful melodies that her daughter was learning. "Yes, Colonel. Perhaps at sometime we may have Violetta play for us. She plays with great skill, and sometimes the notes seem to fly from beneath her fingers faster than the eye can behold."
"Oh, Mother..." Violetta expressed. "I do try...but sometimes wish that I had better teachers than are available to us at home. Colonel, do you know if Miss Darcy has an instructor? I should dearly love to hear her play and to find out if her music master would know of someone who could help me improve my skills."
"Yes, Miss Rosborough. I do know that she has had special musical training that my cousin Darcy has employed. I am not familiar with their names, but would be glad to write and obtain that information and any other references that Darcy may have. I should be more than happy to pass the information back to you through your Father, if you would like," the Colonel offered.
"Oh, yes, mother. Wouldn't that be wonderful? The teachers that I have do not possess those talents that I feel are sufficient to aide me in my further efforts."
"Why yes. That is very considerate of you Colonel. I feel that if there were some better instructors to be had, we would be more than happy to employ them. You may feel free to inquire of your cousin on our behalf as to the particulars."
"Colonel Fitzwilliam," Lord Cameron who had been having a discussion with Lord Rosborough now interjected for the Colonel's attention. "I was just discussing the situation in Prussia with Lord Rosborough. We have heard rumors and are certain that if Frederick Wilhelm were to issue a proclamation***, the people of his country would unite against the French. That would certainly help us in our continued efforts to bring Napoleon under some kind of control.
"Yes, that is true." Colonel Fitzwilliam retorted. " I feel that the only way that we can ever defeat Napoleon completely is to join with other allies and win a major victory that will crush his army completely. The Prussians might just prove to be a very valuable ally for us if that were to come to pass."***
Miss Rosborough here offered up several rumors that she had heard while at the Opera. "Colonel Fitzwilliam, I have heard that the French are currently digging a tunnel under the English Channel that will end somewhere near the Cliffs of Dover. Since this is only a distance of 20 miles. What is your opinion on the subject, sir?"
"Miss Rosborough, I, too, have heard those same rumors a number of times during the past few years and have come to discount them entirely. What I do know, however, is that the French are perfectly capable of mounting an invasion using small ships and barges. Although the English Navy is the best in the world, the Channel is quite large, and it may be possible for them to sneak through at some point or other. I have also heard, but do not give full credit to the rumors of them having a number of secret weapons that could be used during any such invasion.
"I have seen plans for a sort of flying boat mounted beneath a giant hot air balloon, that could ferry a troop of men and their weapons aloft across the Channel. For my part, however, I feel very confident that we have sufficient fortifications completed all along the coast that would suffice to repel any such efforts that the French may undertake. The units that I command consist of highly trained marksmen and our normal duties involve coastal defense. Bonaparte would make a serious mistake indeed, were he to attempt such at this time."
"Thank you, Colonel." Violetta responded. "I know that I shall sleep soundly now that I know that you and your brave men are there to defend the Empire."
The group continued to enjoy a pleasurable discourse with Lord Cameron offering several insights for the group from his array of connections both at court and his many relationships with the military. He was able to supply much interesting information on many of the battles that had occurred within the past months, including the huge Battle of Borodino on September 6, where the French Grand Armee suffered vast losses of men and materials.
All too soon, the meal had ended, and the time had arrived for the Colonel to begin making the arduous journey homeward. Lord Cameron and the Colonel had come to a final agreement that notice should be sent by the Colonel to the Regimental headquarters. It was agreed that his units would require between 60 to 90 days to come to full strength and be able to make port for departure to the Continent. This time period was not unexpected and would probably be an acceptable response. Colonel Fitzwilliam was provided with access to Lord Cameron's steward and whatever funds would be needed. He was soon ready to depart with the expectation that he would return to ___shire and meet with his Quartermaster to get more specific information regarding arrangements that had already been made.
The Colonel took his leave from the party as the ladies retired to the drawing room. "Lord and Lady Rosborough...Miss Rosborough, I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you again. Lord Cameron, Lady Cameron, I thank you for your gracious invitation to dine with you this afternoon. I fear that the hour is now getting quite late, I really must begin my journey home if I hope to reach there before dark. It is several miles and the snow, although it has abated, still lies heavily on the street. I will probably be on the road for quite some time."
Lord Cameron issued ordered for a number of hot bricks to be provided for both the Colonel and his driver to offer some bit of warmth for their journey. The carriage was brought around to the front and Colonel Fitzwilliam donned his heavy winter coat and hat. As he departed with one final glance back, he had thought for a moment that he had seen Miss Rosborough looking down on him from the window above, but could not be sure.
++The English, A Social History; C.Hibbert
** Wilhelm issued just such a proclamation in March of 1813, resulting in massive waves of Prussians volunteering to fight against the French.
*** I couldn't help but allow the Colonel to be very insightful here about just the very alliance that would end up defeating Bonaparte just over 2 years in the future. Quite a brilliant mind he has, don't you think?
Chapter 2 part 3
"Ah-choo!!"
"Son...Is that you? Where have you been? Are you catching a chill?"
"Yes, Mother. I am just now returning from Lord Camerons'. We had a bit of an accident on the way back and I'm afraid that the carriage tipped over in some heavy snow as we were crossing through the Park. It took us quite a while to get the carriage uprighted again."
"Oh, Richard. Good Heavens. Have you been injured? Where are you hurt, son? Should we send for the Doctor?"
"No, Mother. I am fine. Neither Tim nor I were injured. The carriage became caught in a rather large rut along the way and we were overturned. Tim was thrown clear, but landed in a large snowbank and was not injured. I just received a few bruises from bouncing around the inside of the carriage. Nothing to worry about. I shall be fine. It was just a large jolt and a surprise to the both of us."
"Now Richard. You know that I have always tried to get you to take better care of yourself. I am always so worried when you are out later than you should be."
"Now, Mother. You know that I am a grown man, nearly 30 years of age, and in the Army, too. I should know how to care for myself by now."
"Yes, son. But you know how a mother worries about her dear children. It is just a part of our nature. Now come along inside and let me see where you are hurt. We have some balms that I can use to apply to the bruise that can ease your pain somewhat."
"Oh, Mother...really, now. It's just a little bump."
"Richard! You follow me upstairs right now. I won't hear another word until we've gotten you tended to."
"Oh...Very well...Just as you say mother. Please lead the way."
"Have you eaten yet. I will be very angry if I find that Lord Cameron sent you away and did not feed you after keeping you out till all hours of the evening."
"Yes, mother. Lord Cameron was most gracious. I had the great pleasure of dining with Lord and Lady Cameron this afternoon. They also had some houseguests to whom I had the greatest pleasure of being introduced. Are you at all acquainted with Lord and Lady Rosborough?"
"Rosborough? Hmm...No, I don't think...wait, are they from the Essex area?"
"Yes. Evidently they have a sizable Estate near there."
"I do believe that we may have met them a number of years ago. And how did you find them?"
"I found them quite well. They have the most beautiful daughter, who is also in town for the Season and enjoying the Opera. I had the honor of meeting her as well. She is quite an accomplished young lady and has great talents in music. She is also quite pretty, and has the most exquisite red hair that I have ever beheld. She wears it rather longish past her shoulders and twisted and wrapped in exotic patterns throughout."
"Well, now. That is surely something, she sounds quite lovely. And was she educated as well?"
"Yes! Her name is Violetta and she speaks and writes in both Italian and French with fluency. I can not remember ever meeting anyone quite like her. She is everything that is fine in a lady. I would very much like to extend my acquaintance with her. Unfortunately, I have some important military assignments that are going to probably make that impossible. I will be returning to my Regiment in ____shire tomorrow and do not know when I shall be able to return," the Colonel expressed wistfully.
"Well, son. I am not sure how to advise you in such a matter. But, perhaps you may meet the young lady another time."
"Yes, mother. ...Perhaps so. I am very tired now; it has been a rather long day. I have some letters to write and then I think that I shall retire for the evening. Please express my regrets to Father. I shall see him in the morning, before I set out," the Colonel expressed as he gave his mother a brief embrace before turning to climb the staircase to his room.
January 31, 1813Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy Pemberley Estate Lambton, Derbyshire
Cousin,
I must seek you assistance. I have met a rather charming young lady this date here in London. She hails from the Essex area and comes from a very reputable family; to wit, I believe that you may know of them -- Lord and Lady Rosborough.
I had dinner this afternoon at Lord Cameron's where they are staying as houseguests for the season. They asked after you and especially about your pretty new wife. I was most happy to give them a favorable report in regards to that matter. It seems your reputation for being a bit "staid' has gotten around and they were most surprised that you had found a lady to your liking. But then, who could not like Elizabeth. She is truly a jewel and were things different I might envy you your good fortune.
But I am straying from my subject. Miss Rosborough as it turns out is quite accomplished on the fortepiano. I had the opportunity of mentioning to her that your sister, dear sweet Georgiana, has also developed a number of skills in her playing. In short, cousin, she desires to find out the names of some of the music masters who have assisted Georgiana during the past several years. Violetta informed me that she feels that the instructors that she has have provided all that they can, and she desires to learn other techniques and skills that might allow her to continue her musical education.
I have promised her that I would write to you and then pass this information back to her through her father. Please send your answer along with any possible references that you are familiar with in care of my regiment in ____shire where I am currently on duty."
Your cousin,
Richard
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Sweetheart. Here's a letter from my cousin Fitzwilliam. He mentions you in it. Would you care to read it."
"Oh, yes. Dear Colonel Fitzwilliam. I should enjoy that very much. Hmm..."Charming young lady...??' la-de-da...and here he speaks of me. Oh, husband...did you not note that he is already calling Miss Rosborough by her first name by the third paragraph?"
"Yes, Elizabeth. I did indeed. ...I did indeed."
Chapter 3 Part 1 - Resolutions
The following morning Violetta arose and, with the help of her chambermaid, chose an elegant costume of velvet for her morning wear. Feeling a small pang of hunger she decided to take an early breakfast. As she entered the dining area there was an assortment of tea and chocolates along with hot buttered bread. Choosing one of the slices that had been roasted at the fireplace on both sides, she settled back in her chair to reminisce on her day. She had only been seated for a few moments when her uncle entered from the veranda.
"Oh, Uncle Cameron, I did not know that anyone else had arisen yet. You gave me a start."
"Please forgive me child," Lord Cameron replied. "I usually arise quite early and take a brisk walk each morning. I see that you have found something to your liking this morning. Have my brother and sister arisen yet?"
"No, I believe that I am the first up this morning."
"And how do you find London so far, niece? Have you been enjoying the theatre and balls?"
"Oh, yes, Uncle. They are all so exciting. We have seen so many plays this year. I have enjoyed them all. ...But the Balls, sir. Sometimes I find them quite tiring. So many young men always seem to be fawning over me. I am not so sure that I enjoy those quite as well. The dancing can be enjoyable at times, but I do not find that mix of company that seems to interest me. "
"And, if I may be so bold, has there been no young gentleman who has been of interest to you here in London my niece," Lord Cameron questioned with a smile.
"No sir, not in the least. Most of the young men just chatter away on subjects that are of great interest to themselves and seem to rarely ever require a response or express an interest in my own thoughts or opinions. I find many of them vain and uninteresting."
"But tell me, Uncle Cameron.... how long have you known the Colonel?" Violetta queried.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam?" Lord Cameron questioned with a good-humored smile.
"Yes, he seems to be a different sort than those whom I have usually met. He is so much more serious and knowledgeable than others whom I have met."
"Well, I have known him since he was recommended to me most highly as an officer candidate back in 1807. At that time I was recruiting for officers to fill a new regiment that I had formed to assist in the Spanish Peninsular Campaigns. The Colonel, then a Lieutenant was assigned to one of the first units that were sent over. He served under Sir John Moore in Portugal in the battles against the French. At one point his commanding officer had been killed in a fierce battle. Lieutenant Fitzwilliam soon found himself completely outnumbered and was forced to retreat over the forbidding Galician mountains in winter with French Marshal Soult hard on his heels. Eventually reaching the port of Corunna he rallied his men and fought a masterly defensive battle against a much stronger army. His small force had checked the French and had therefore been able to embark safely on ships sent to extricate them. As a result of his gallant action he received a commission as Colonel."
"Oh, Uncle. He sounds like such a brave man. Not at all like most of the strutting peacocks that I see at the balls. And his family...what can you tell me of them?"
"Ah, the Earl and Countess Matlock. Yes, they are wonderful people. Their family history is of the finest in England. Colonel Fitzwilliam, you know, is the second son. His older brother, John, is to inherit; therefore the Colonel had chosen a military career. I believe that he will do well, and would not be at all surprised that he may come out of this war far better than most. He seems to have a very sharp head on his shoulders. ...Yes, a very intelligent and most likable person."
"I very much agree, Uncle," Violetta.
Chapter 3 Part 4 - continued
{this is the remainder of the chapter that got truncated during the posting yesterday. There must be a Y2K bug out there because even though I had entered a password to allow me to delete and correct, not even the password will work. Oh, well... here's this part. I have some more work to do up at Newcastle (say, isn't there someone else that we know who's stationed up that way? Also I couldn't let the Colonel ship out for battle without having a pretty lady waiting on his return.}
"Why, Colonel Fitzwilliam. ...You flatter me, I am sure. ...But it is true. The first movement of the piece is slow and has a charming grace about it. But the further movements, they seem to possess a fury and vigor that sometimes I feel eludes me. I seem to "feel' how they should be -- but can not seem to get my fingers to bring out what I can hear in my mind. The proper tempo and inflections of notes are lacking. I have not found an instructor who has given me that special insight. Do you know what I mean?"
"Yes, I think that I do. There have been times when I have been at a concert and felt that the piece should be played either faster or slower, or it just seemed that "something' was missing. I was never able to put my finger on just what it was. The music was enjoyable, but did not seem to possess the right spirit."
"But, surely Colonel Fitzwilliam, there are other things that occupy your mind than those of music. Tell me, what is on your mind today, sir, besides Napoleon and Herr Beethoven?"
"Indeed, I have been thinking of other things today. Most especially trying to see into the future, so to speak."
"...And what is your success, sir? Tell me how are things to be," Violetta ventured with a teasing smile.
"Well, if truth be told, I find the future a bit murky. I have seen much in my life, and much of what I have seen has disturbed my soul. I want so much for the people of our country to have a better life. I have seen conditions of life that so many children live in that I feel that something Must be done. Should this war ever be brought to a successful end I would like to find a way to change that. I have not a fortune or a vast Estate of my own, but perhaps there may be some other way to be found. I had a thought and have discussed it with your Uncle. ...Who is to say? ...But then those are dreams for a distant future..." his voiced trailed off into a whisper.
Suddenly, turning with a new resolve "...Miss Rosborough, I will be in London for only a few more days and I was wondering...Would you think it too forward of me? ...What I mean to say is --- Are you at all familiar with the Museum of William Bullock in Piccadilly***?"
"Why no, Colonel. I have heard of it, to be sure, but we have not had the opportunity to visit there."
"Miss Rosborough, would you give me permission to ask your parents whether or not I might have the honor of escorting you all to visit the museum in two days time?"
"Why, Colonel. That sounds so exciting. Yes, yes. We must ask them now. Let us go directly over." Violetta rose and grabbing the Colonel's arm tugged him over to where her parents were in a discussion with Lord Cameron. "...Mother, ...Father, Colonel Fitzwilliam has just offered a most excellent idea," Violetta gestured for the Colonel to continue.
"Lord and Lady Cameron, Lord Rosborough, Lady Rosborough, would you do me the honor of allowing me to escort you and your lovely daughter to the Bullock Museum in Piccadilly on Saturday? They have a number of the most exotic and exciting curiosities for enjoyment.
"Yes, Colonel. That does sound exciting. We would be glad for the break in our routine," exclaimed Lord Rosborough. "What say you Lord Cameron, will you wish to attend?"
"Oh no, no. We have been there several times ourselves. You may all go and enjoy yourselves. I am sure that you will have a good time."
With those arrangements completed, the Colonel established that he would arrive in carriage to pick up the party at Lord Cameron's on Saturday afternoon at one o'clock. The Colonel was able to depart for home not long after, joyful in the knowledge that he would have a further opportunity to enjoy the company of Miss Rosborough. And if his luck held out, he may even have a few moments alone with her as they strolled around the museum.
Colonel Fitzwilliam returned to his parents home that evening with a renewed vigor in his heart. He had determined to undertake the winning of a certain young ladies heart, and as in all such campaigns he knew that he would need a good strategy. The barouche was to be washed down, a team of the best horses needed to be selected, the drivers and coachmen must be turned out in their best livery, and then there must be something else.
As they were passing along ___berry Street the Colonel chanced to see a pasteboard announcing a certain entertainment...Yes, that is it...That is it."
Rising early the next morning, Colonel Fitzwilliam made off for Piccadilly shortly after breakfast. He had need to make some special arrangements for a surprise that he wanted accomplished for the party and wanted nothing left to chance.
***Jane Austen visited William Bullock's museum in 1808.
Chapter 4a -- Part 1 - Bullock's Museum
Colonel Fitzwilliam had spent the better part of the previous evening preparing for this day with all the strategy of a great military engagement. The carriage had been cleaned; a group of the best-matched horses had been arranged. Even the driver's livery had been cleaned and pressed. Most of his thoughts during this time related to how he might best present his case to a certain young lady who had captured his heart and he had now determined would be the mistress of his future life.
The Colonel, unlike his staid cousin Darcy, had been blessed with that style of manners and temperament that allowed him to be at ease in the company of women. He had the advantage of interacting with many fine young ladies during his life. Having been raised mostly in town, he was a regular at all of the social events and balls. His skills as a dancer had been honed to a keen edge and he prided himself on his ability to discern the desires of his partner of the moment. Be it in the most intricate dance patterns or in a general manner of small talk and pleasant verbal intercourse during refreshments, he was equally adept. But those were all designed merely for a brief entertainment or a casual diversion. Here presented a venture that he had almost thought might have passed him by.
No woman had as yet ever touched his heart. It was true there was one before, recently, who if her situation in life had been different might easily have given the Colonel cause to consider. Her bright and easy wit, her pleasing manners, her gentle unaffected ways were all that the Colonel could ever desire in a woman. But... no, Elizabeth Bennet was not within his ability to consider, especially since she did not possess the means to assist a marriage by an attendant dowry of some size.
The Colonel did possess some little means of his own. Being only the 2nd son of an Earl he would not inherit an estate, but upon the death of his father would stand to inherit a lump sum of 16,000 pounds. In addition, by his demonstrated service and skills during the engagements in 1808 he had been awarded a cash prize of 5,000 pounds which he had since invested at interest, therefore he was not destitute. But he would need to take extreme care with what he had since he did not currently possess the means of obtaining a large income. Other than the interest he was currently receiving on his invested funds, he would have no continuing source of increase in his funds should he leave the military. His annual receipts from his position as Colonel in Lord Cameron's Regiment was barely 2,000 pounds, most of that went to daily living expenses. His desires in life befitted his upbringing. He wanted to at some point be the owner of his own house in town, carriages, equipage and staff to suit those needs would require much more in the way of assets than he possessed. His fondest dream was to somehow come into possession of a situation similar to his cousin Darcy, with a country estate and the ability to use that to produce an income sufficient for his needs. He could see the dream 'almost' within his reach, but did not possess that final piece that would enable him to reach his goal. Even with a marriage to Violetta, her dowry would only present another 'lump sum' and would need to be invested wisely.
There were times when he had felt the pangs of a slight jealousy of his cousin Darcy's fine estate at Pemberley. Here he saw was the means of supporting not only current expenses but the ability to utilize the property to advance its' owner to other levels and stations in life. But at present he knew of little opportunity to obtain such for himself. To be able to provide those things to a wife that would provide her comfort and ease and to have the ability, should there be children, to provide them some means of gaining the opportunities in life that were their due... these were his goals now.
In Violetta Rosborough, however, the Colonel recognized a lady who would bring more than a large dowry to the marriage. The Colonel had no idea as to what that might be, but no longer did such things seem to matter. His heart now yearned for the presence in his life of one who could share his dreams. He was certain that he had found the one who could help him to fulfill that place in his heart that he had suddenly discovered was empty and desolate. Whatever was to become of him in life, he no longer desired to live it alone. His visions of the future now only existed with the presence of that 'other' one who would make his life complete. He could now see clearly what he really wanted for the future: To share his life with her, for her to become one with him; to plan jointly with her a home, a shared intimacy, ...perhaps one day a family.
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Arriving at the precise hour set beforehand, Colonel Fitzwilliam was dressed in his finest uniform. All the buttons and brass were polished to a bright shine. Hardly had his carriage completed the circuit up the driveway at Lord Camerons' than the Colonel had exited and nearly bounded up the stone stairway in his excitement. Upon entering the mansion, the Colonel was ushered into the Parlour where his party already awaited him.
After meeting with Lord Cameron briefly to pass along some late news on the status of the on-loading of supplies in Newcastle, the Colonel was pleased be able to take his leave and to assist the ladies as they mounted into the carriage for the trip to Piccadilly.
As the carriage traveled along on the way to Piccadilly Colonel Fitzwilliam and Lord and Lady Rosborough chatted pleasantly, the Colonel pointing out many of the various sights of interest along the way. There were frequent exchanges of inquiry from all the party, as this was their first real tour of London with such a knowledgeable guide. Miss Rosborough could often be seen to be observing the Colonel as he pointed out first this bridge, or that building of historical or architectural interest.
`````````````````Arrival at 22 Piccadilly````````````````````````
Upon their arrival the Colonel assisted the ladies again as they entered into the vestibule of the imposing edifice that was known as Bullock's Museum. The owner had met them personally and each was provided with a special catalogue of the many wonders and curiosities to be seen. The Colonel exchanged a questioning look with their host, and upon inquiring about whether a certain arrangement had been completed, had been assured that it was in fact complete. A further word was passed to inform him that they would await the Colonel's command to begin. This mission completed, the Colonel then gestured for the party to pass down an immense hallway to the first exhibit.
`````````` Wild Animals````````````````
The first exhibit was comprised of realistic displays of animals of every sort. Some were grouped together as a family unit; others were shown in the act of hunting their prey. The Colonel was pleased to escort Miss Rosborough with Lord and Lady Rosborough close behind. In one area devoted to the wilds of Africa they were treated to the sights of huge elephants, rhinoceros, antelope and lions. The Colonel watched with an eager anticipation as the face of his companion reflected her happiness of discovery as each new turn of a corner revealed some new and fearsome creature, or another might display the animals in a family setting. Here there were snakes of all sizes and colors; birds of all manner were enclosed within an aviary; further on were hippopotamus and tigers and giraffes.
"Oh, Colonel," Violetta cried. "It is all so delightful. I had never known nor ever dreamed that there could be such creatures."
"Oh, yes, all of these and many more..." Colonel Fitzwilliam replied. "Africa is a continent full of mysteries. I have not been there myself, but have heard of the many different peoples and large varieties of wildlife to be seen everywhere. One day, perhaps, I should not mind going on a safari there."
"Ah, yes," Violetta replied, "...but would you not be afraid being eaten by one of these mighty lions? And I have also heard that they have giant apes. They all appear to be so fierce and frightening to me. Their teeth are so very large. I would not wish for you to become their supper one night!"
"I thank you for your concern, but believe that there would be many ways to protect from such dangers. There would be a large party of people accompanied by porters and people who are familiar with the jungle. We would set a watch at night to warn us of dangers. For the most part, though, I believe that the lions prefer to eat the antelope, for which I am very glad."
``````````Egypt and wonders of times far past``````````````````
Directly ahead were huge inclined pilasters ornamented with Egyptian hieroglyphics. As they passed between the main portals into the next area all members of the party were heard to utter a small gasp of wonder. Herein they found strange sights from a time long past. Colonel Fitzwilliam had in fact toured in Egypt several years prior and it had been a favorite study of his to learn of the various gods and symbols. He was only the more overjoyed to be able to share his knowledge with his love and with her parents, feeling that this would only heighten what chances he had, as he thought on how he would approach Violetta and her parents when the time came.
He pointed out the Sarcophagus and Canopic jars said to contain the remains of an ancient priest, adorned with the images of scarabs. "...And over here," he continued, "there is the image of Amon-Re the sun god, see how he has the head of a falcon, but the tail of a bull."
"And where have you seen such sights, Colonel," Lord Rosborough questioned.
"I was on an extended holiday in Egypt and visited in the Valley of the Kings some three years ago. There are over 60 tombs of the ancient Egyptian Kings and Queens there, you know. Most all were stripped of their valuable contents by grave robbers over the centuries. But I am told that there may yet be many undiscovered secrets to be found beneath the sands. Over here is the god Horus represented as a hawk; he was the son of the murdered Osiris. And here is Isis, wife of Osiris, shown with the horns of a cow. You know, the story is that it was Osiris who brought civilization to the world, and introduced such things as cattle raising and farming."
"Oh! How fascinating," Violetta cried. "I should love to visit this land someday -- But fear that I would need to engage a knowledgeable guide to instruct me. Would you know of anyone to whom I might apply for that duty," she teased.
"Should the occasion ever arise, I would be most willing to fill that post, you have but to ask..." the Colonel retorted with an eager smile.
Continuing on the Colonel was eager to demonstrate his knowledge to his beloved's parents. "And here is a special find indeed," the Colonel exclaimed as he pointed out a strange looking object. "For this is the nose of the great Sphinx. A great beast sculpture with the body of a lion and the head of a king. But here you see only the nose of the Sphinx. This giant sculpture survived for many thousands of years in the desert but was recently shot off by some of Napoleon's artillery crews during their target practice. I find it so abhorrent that the French seem to care so little for the history of the ancients and do not respect the treasures that have been passed down to us such as this."
************
Continued in Part 2
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