CHAPTER FIVE

When the train arrived at the Winthrop-on-Hart station, it felt good to be back in familiar territory. Their train pulled into the small station, and Josephine turned to her brother.

“How strange it is that a person adapts so quickly to unfamiliar surroundings. Here I am, having spent the majority of my life in London, yet home is now the village and countryside surrounding Uncle Roderick’s farm.”

“Yes. I know,” replied Andrew. “I feel the same way. I, too, have grown to love the English countryside. If my Oxford degree wasn’t in law, I’d be sorely tempted to spend the rest of my days in this area. However, employment opportunities would be nearly impossible to find.”

“You might, at least, give it a try, Andrew.” Roderick spoke up. “If I remember correctly, your chum Tom Drew, the physician, thought he would have to settle in London. Yet, he was able to find an elderly physician who was ready to sell his practice in Winthrop-on-Hart. You never know unless you try.”

“I just may do that, Uncle,” Andrew answered, as he helped to gather their valises and various boxes of purchases. “However, it seems a bit rude to accept an offer, as I’ve done, and then turn around and tell them I don’t want it.”

Although automobiles were being manufactured in various parts of the world, for the most part, horses and carriages were still the prevalent mode of transportation for short distances. Trains were the means most people used to journey from small villages with larger cities. Win owned a Rolls Royce and, of course, the family had a chauffeur. Uncle Roderick still depended on the horse and carriage, although he did have his new automobile. Still, it had been easier for her uncle to wire the stationmaster and request that a car and driver be made available for them. The automobile was waiting at the station. They were laden with much more baggage than they’d had upon leaving. The lovely gown, intended for the dinner party, lay carefully in a large box, protected by tissue-paper. Each of the men had their own purchases, too, but the hired driver assisted in getting everything organized in the vehicle. Josephine wondered if she would be seeing Win again before the anticipated dinner. He’d said he would be riding Black Orchid each day until Ascot, which took place during the first four days of June. It was now late May, so the event was rapidly approaching.

***

As it turned out, Josephine did not see Win again between the end of May and the start of the Ascot race the beginning of June. Although she kept busy, visiting with her brother and tending to her garden, she couldn’t help but think about her handsome neighbor and wonder when she might set eyes on him next.

***

Win was, of course, not actually riding Black Orchid in the world-renowned race. He had a well-respected jockey doing the honours for him, as he sat in one of the enclosures, though not the Royal space. He did sit with several of the well-known owners of many other horses running that day. 1913 was a special year at Ascot, because it was the year that the Ascot Authority Act was initiated, which continued to manage the racecourse for many years thereafter.

Black Orchid did not perform well, but the excitement of owning a thoroughbred running in the most prestigious race in all of Great Britain was a thrill in itself.

Win normally would have stayed at Ascot for at least two nights, chatting with other owners, but he was in a most anxious mood to return to Winthrop Manor. His primary interest was stopping to see Josephine, whom he knew was supposed to have returned from London by then. He left Black Orchid in the stables at Ascot, to be transported back to Winthrop Manor the next day. Then he boarded the first train and headed for Winthrop-on-Hart. He slept on the train, and when he woke, he saw that the sun was up and the sky a lovely blue. The Rolls was waiting to carry him to the manor. He gathered his belongings and heartily greeted the family’s carriage driver, David Carlisle.

“Not such good luck at the race, eh, my lord?”

“No, but it wasn’t a great surprise. There were some incredible thoroughbreds in the running. It was a strange race. A man ran out onto the track, causing the horse in the lead to fall, and Prince Palatine, who also won last year’s gold cup, won again.”

As the auto moved along, the two continued to chat.

“I thought perhaps you’d stay a few extra days. We were surprised to receive your wire, saying you'd be returning this morn.”

“Yes, I saw no reason to stay. I have tasks that need the be completed here, and I’m also thinking of making this a special day. The weather is so wonderful. I’ve not had a picnic in ever so long, and I intend to ask Vera if she could put together a nice basket for me.” Vera Whitaker, their cook, made the most delicious chicken, and Win hoped she had some available to add to the picnic basket.

“Have you someone special to picnic with, sir?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact, I do. At least, I hope so. I intend to have a wash, change into a fresh shirt and britches, and then try to make arrangements.”

“Don’t tell me you’ve found a young lady in this vicinity whom you fancy?”

“Quite possibly, David.” Win laughed. “We shall see.”

The Rolls Royce turned into the gravelled drive leading to the manor Win would one day own. The house dated to the fifteenth century, although some parts were a good deal older. It had the common manor house arrangement, with the central hall edged by rooms in gabled wings at each end. The large window on the right lit a chapel. The hall had a three-story range in succession along the front, with more gables above it, so the overall effect was quite different from that of most medieval manor houses; instead of the usual long roof of the hall, the house presented a fascinating, serrated outline, emphasized by old-style lime wash on the walls. The house had been added to several times over the years, so it was immensely long and expansive.

Win was out of the car in a flash, and David followed with the luggage. Inside, Win’s mother was standing at a round, Victorian table sorting through the day’s post. When he stepped inside, she looked up. She set aside the envelopes and opened her arms to welcome him home.

“Win! How very good to see you. We were surprised to learn you would be returning so quickly.”

Win embraced his mother. “Of course, you know the race results. Not good for my poor Black Orchid but still an exhilarating experience. I decided I’d rather be back here than spend another night at Ascot. I’m going in to visit with Mrs. Whitaker for a moment, and then go upstairs for a wash and change of clothing.”

“What on Earth have you to discuss with Mrs. Whitaker?” His mother frowned.

“It’s such a glorious day, Mother. I thought a picnic might be nice. I’ve met a young lady whom I rather fancy. She makes her home with her uncle, and he lives in our area. I intend to find out if she’d like to accompany me.”

“Well, this is the first I’ve heard of a young lady. When and where did you meet?”

“Mother, this is not the first time we’ve discussed this.” Win frowned. “If you recall, I told you about her and her uncle, and they’re coming here for a dinner party next month. Surely, you haven’t forgotten!”

“Ah, yes…” His mother nodded. “The neighbors you met while out riding that day. However, I certainly don’t recall you saying anything at all about having developed an attraction for the girl. Is she from a fine family then?”

“She seems to be. Her parents went down with the Titanic last September, and her uncle, who lives near Winthrop-on-Hart, has taken guardianship of her and her brother, Andrew.”

“Have they education? Has she been presented?”

“Oh, Mother, I don’t know every detail about her.” Win hedged. He had no intention of having this discussion with his mother right now. “We’ve only chatted a couple of times. No, she has not done the Presentation, as she just recently turned eighteen. I do know Andrew, her brother, has finished at Oxford. Her name is Josephine Chambers. She’s a charming young lady.”

“You know your father and I would much prefer that you choose a lady of fine breeding and first-rate manners. I hope she meets those requirements. Your father and I will look forward to making this young lady’s acquaintance. You must remember your heritage and the responsibilities that lay ahead of you. The lady you someday choose as a bride will also become a countess.”

“Good god, Mother. I didn’t say I intended to marry her. I find her enchanting and would like to know her better. You and Father will have an opportunity to meet her next month. I think we should keep the dinner party small but smart. I’ve invited Josephine, her brother Andrew, Elisabeth, of course, my friend’s uncle, Roderick Chambers, Tom Drew, the young physician from Cloverhill who’s a chum of mine from Oxford, and perhaps the widow Mrs. Kenslow from over on Lilac Lane. Those are all neighbors. It would be nice to know them better. What is your opinion?”

“I’ve no objection to your proposal. Have you chosen an exact date?”

“It’s really entirely up to you, Mother, but I thought perhaps rather soon. Perhaps the last Saturday in July if you haven’t anything else planned.”

“It sounds fine as far as I’m concerned. I haven’t anything on the calendar during that time. Of course, you’ll want a full course, won’t you, darling? Although these people are mostly strangers, I always like to make a nice impression.”

“Yes, Mother. I’ve already mentioned the possibility of a social evening of this sort to Josephine and her uncle, telling them it wouldn’t be ostentatiously formal. Of course, evening wear for the men and dinner gowns for the ladies. Does that suit you?”

“Yes. I see no reason for jewels and the like. I don’t know these people, and I certainly don’t wish for them to feel out of place.”

“Thank you, Mother. I’m going to have a chat with Vera about today’s picnic, but I’ll also mention the dinner party.”

Win turned and walked down the stairs to the first level, where the kitchen was located. Vera was standing at the sink with her back to him, polishing silver. She had been with their family for nearly fifty years, since she was eighteen years of age. Since the day of his birth, she had been devoted to him. She’d always referred to him as Jay, from the moment she’d first laid eyes upon him. When asked why she called him Jay instead of James or Jimmy or even Win, Vera forever said it was it was because there had been a young man in her neighbourhood, while growing up, whose name had been James, but everyone had adopted the name Jay for him.

Vera loved Oliver, Win’s younger brother, too, but there had never been any question that Win, as the eldest son, was the apple of her eye. She often said she hoped to live long enough to see him married and settled with his own son, ensuring that the family line would continue at Winthrop Manor. Win thought the world of Vera, too. His earliest memories were filled with her sweet, plump face, asking if he would like a batch of biscuits, cookies, or a chocolate cake. While he had been at Oxford, she’d sent boxes of his favourite sugar cookies and wrote long, difficult to comprehend letters, since her grammar and English skills could have used improvement.

“Good morning, Mrs. Whitaker. You look like you’re busy this fine day. Doesn’t Radcliffe usually do that sort of thing?” Win asked, pointing to the silver coffee pot Vera was polishing. Radcliffe was the family’s butler.

Mrs. Whitaker turned. “Oh, I do whatever strikes my fancy, Jay. You know that. This seemed like a pretty morning to tackle such a chore. I’m sorry your horse didn’t take first at Ascot. I followed the race in the newspaper. Perhaps next year you’ll have better luck. Can I prepare something for you to eat?”

“I really never thought I’d win at Ascot. It was pleasant to be there and to see the crowds of people dressed in their finery. Thank you for asking if I’m hungry, but no. I had something else in mind if I won’t be interrupting your polishing task.”

“Whatever you need or want, I’ll be most happy to oblige. What can I do for you?” Vera asked.

“I’ve decided on a picnic, because it’s truly such a spectacular day. I have a companion whom I intend to invite. Would it be a hardship to ask if you might prepare a basket for me? It would require the usual items. Finger sandwiches, possibly some fruit, perhaps various kinds of cheeses, a loaf of French Bread, and, naturally, a bottle of fine wine? A white Chardonnay, I should think. And if you happen to have any of your amazing chicken, you could add some of that, too.”

“That would be no problem whatsoever. Perhaps also a sweet of some sort? I have some petit-fours left from yesterday’s tea. Shall I include them?”

“Marvellous. You’re a gem, Mrs. Whitaker.”

“Will you be wanting this prepared at any certain time?” she asked.

“I’m going to have a wash and change of clothing. After that, I’ll be ready to set out for what I hope will be a splendid picnic. Will that allow adequate time?”

“Certainly. The basket will be ready when you’re prepared to leave. Can you tell me approximately the number of picnic guests? I’ll have a better idea about how much to prepare.”

“Oh, certainly. There will only be two of us. You will, of course, include plates, glasses, silverware, and napkins?”

“Jay, my dear, when have I ever prepared something of this sort without including proper utensils?” she responded.

“I know. I was only making an attempt to get a rise out of you,” James replied, laughing.

“Well, you’ve failed, as always. Now, dash on out of here, and let me get on with the task you’ve assigned me.” She took the cloth she was using to polish silver and swatted it at him.

“Thanks again. You’re a marvel. Oh, and before I leave, I also want to mention that we’ve a small dinner party planned for the last Saturday in July. There should be eight people present, although I’ve not spoken with all of them yet. Nonetheless, I suspect everyone will be able to attend. I leave the bill of fare up to you. I do wish a full course menu, but it’s not to be over-the-top fancy. I’m sure you can imagine what I have in mind.”

“I understand completely. Now, hasten on your way,” she answered, moving her hands in a shooing motion. “I certainly have spoiled you from day one, Master Jay. I wonder what you’d do without me?”

Win smiled. “I don’t even want to think about that, Mrs. Whitaker. Someday, when I marry, Mother and Father will move to the dower house, and God only knows where Oliver will be off to, but you must promise you’ll always be here to look after me.”

“Never fear. You had better make certain you choose a proper wife. That will be my primary concern.”

“Have no fear,” he answered merrily. “I’ll make certain to obtain your approval.”

With that, Win trotted back up the stairway and continued to the third level, where his own suite was located. Entering the bathroom, he shed his clothing and ran a tub of water. He soaped his hair well, to rid himself of equine odor. When he emerged, he felt like a new man. He padded to the cupboard and extracted a pristine, starched white shirt and gray, casual trousers. When he’d completed dressing, he looked first-rate. He added a dab of men’s cologne and combed his hair into its usual style, parted on one side and allowed to fall across the opposite eyebrow.

He moved back down the stairway to the kitchen. There, just as promised, was a lovely, wicker basket, filled with every delicacy he’d requested, including the cold chicken. He gave Mrs. Whitaker a quick kiss on the cheek, causing a blush to form on her chubby cheeks.

“You seem to be in fine fettle today, my handsome Jay. I do hope whoever you’re sharing this picnic with deserves you.”

“The question, Mrs. Whitaker, is whether or not I deserve her,” he said. Would Josephine find him handsome? He certainly hoped so…

“There isn’t a person in this land who wouldn’t deserve you. I’ll trust your good judgment.”

He thanked her profusely once again and then called for David to bring the carriage ‘round.

***

In no time at all, Win arrived at the Chambers Cottage. He asked David to wait while he rushed rather quickly to the front door, where he rapped twice. Josephine answered. Although it had been but a couple weeks since he’d last laid eyes upon her, she seemed to be even more appealing than the first time they’d met. Her hair was styled in an upsweep, with chestnut ringlets framing her face. Her cheeks were glowing, giving the appearance that she might have been out in the sunshine.

“Win!” she cried delightedly. “I didn’t expect you. I thought you were still at Ascot. I read the newspapers, and I’m awfully sorry Black Orchid didn’t do particularly well.”

“Oh, that… It makes no difference. I wanted very much to get back to Hampshire.”

“Really? I would have thought Royal Ascot terribly exciting.”

“Yes, quite, but I had other things on my mind. I took an early train back from Ascot, and I’ve already been to my home and had a wash. Now, I’m fully prepared to ask if you’d like to accompany me on a picnic. It’s such a splendid day. I’ve had our cook pack a sumptuous array of food for such an outing. I do hope you’re able to say yes. I shall be very disappointed if you’re unable to come with me.”

“Oh, what a lovely idea. I don’t believe I’ve ever had the pleasure of a picnic. That’s amazing, isn’t it? Picnics aren’t so much a done thing in London. Not frequently, anyway. Nevertheless, what about attire? I’m not certain I have anything appropriate.” Josephine glanced down at the dress she wore.

“What you’re wearing at the moment is absolutely ideal.”

She was clad in a white lawn dress. The gown had wrist-length sleeves and a high collar, and it was most becoming on her, especially with her hair swept up on the top of her head in its mass of ringlets.

“Are you certain it’s appropriate? I truly do want to go. Shall I fetch a hat or a bonnet?” She glanced over her shoulder. “It will only take me a moment.”

“Only if you’re worried that the sun might burn your lovely skin. I think you’ll be fine. I know of a spot with a very large, old elm. It will provide wonderful shade if the sun should grow brighter.”

“I was outside earlier, tending my roses. The sun was heavenly. I think I’ll pass on wearing a hat or bonnet. You’ve surprised me so. I never dreamed I’d be seeing you today, let alone accompanying you on a picnic.”

“I’m absolutely delighted you’re able to go. I took a great chance asking Mrs. Whitaker, our cook, to prepare the luncheon. I don’t know what I’d have done if you hadn’t been home or had made other arrangements this afternoon.”

“I can’t think of any arrangements I wouldn’t have changed to accompany you today,” Josephine answered.

“Well, then, we’re remarkably fortunate, aren’t we? Shouldn’t we tell your uncle of your plans? Of course, Andrew is welcome to come along with us, too.” Secretly, Win hoped Andrew wouldn’t be available. His primary desire was to spend the afternoon with Josephine.

“Andrew has gone to look at some livestock with Uncle Roderick. I’ll leave a note, so they know I haven’t disappeared into thin air. Come into the house. I’ll find some notepaper and an ink pen. It should only take a moment.”

This was only the second time Win had been inside the Chambers’ home. While Josephine went in search of paper and pen, Win took a look around. It was quite traditional, in the sense that a staircase went straight upwards from the front foyer, and a parlour was on the right of the entryway. To the left was a dining room. The floors were golden wood planks, and there was a fireplace in both the parlour and the dining room. While nothing about it resembled Winthrop Manor, it was an enchanting cottage and very homey. Josephine returned from the parlour, carrying a notepad and an ink pen. He watched as she wrote in lovely, feminine script, admiring her delicate fingers and oval-shaped nails.

“There. That’s done. Is there anything else I should fetch?” she asked, as she set her note propped up on the foyer table.

“We have every possible thing. All I need is you.”

She blushed and smiled sweetly at him. “What a lovely thing to say,” she answered.

“I mean every word of it. Come. David is waiting with our carriage. I’ll have him drive to the spot I have in mind, and we can tell him what time he should come back to collect us.”

They exited the front doorway, making their way to the Rolls Royce. David opened the door for Josephine and Win, and he introduced her to his long-time driver. They drove straight to an even narrower dirt lane, and then continued on for about a mile. There were no houses to be seen in any direction. The landscape was magnificent. Large, rolling hills and cliffs lined one side of the lane, and the other was dotted with soft green grass and thickets of trees.

“Ah, here we are, David. It’s been so long since we’ve visited this spot. I hoped we hadn’t forgotten the location.”

“No, my lord. I remember it well. You used to come here as a child with your brother, sister and parents on picnics. You’re right, though. It has been a long spell.”

***

David drove back down the narrow lane, and Win and Josephine were left to proceed with their picnic. opened the wicker basket, removing a sizable, red-and-white checkered blanket. He spread it under the enormous elm tree he’d remembered, although it was much larger now. The ground beneath it was quite level, particularly on the side where roots didn’t create an uneven surface. Then Win took out plates, glassware, linen napkins, and utensils, leaving the marvelous cuisine prepared by Mrs. Whittaker in the basket until they were ready to eat. He also removed two crystal wineglasses and a bottle of French, white wine. He poured each of them a glass.