Hi Guys,
Over a month without publishing anything is really bad and I am so sorry to have made to wait. The writers block was REAL and some days I couldnt write a thing.
I hope that uploads will return to normal as we are nearing the end of the story.
As always if you enjoyed this chapter and want to be kept up to date with more chapters please feel free to follow/favouirte myself as an author or this story to recieve notifications.
Thank you for all the new readers who left me reviews and to those who have followed and favourited myself and the story.
As always reviews are very much appriecated.
Happy Reading,
Sarah x
Notes to come at the end :)
"You shouldn't be here, what if your parents come to check on me?" protested Theodosia quietly, seeing Philip slip through the secret door.
"Oh, they will be too busy talking to worry" assured Philip, walking over to her bed.
Theodosia held down the blankets, "Philip"
"Look just for a while, I won't stay" whispered Philip.
Theodosia looked towards the door into his parent's room and sighed, "Just for a little while, besides we need to talk"
"My father says that is something you never want to hear from the woman you love" replied Philip, slipping under the covers.
"It's serious," she said.
"Even worse" he commented, wrapping his arm around her.
"It's about Angie," said Theodosia reluctantly. "She begged me not to tell you but-"
"Tell me" he urged. "What's the matter?"
"I am concerned as she seems to have a suitor of sorts that will be coming to the Ball" began Theodosia. "It worries me because firstly, this is Angie and second that the suitor has been making quite passionate declarations as well as being four years older than her"
"When did she say this?" asked Philip.
"Just this afternoon, I demanded that you should know but she begged me not to as she said that it would ruin her night if she was banned from attending" replied Theodosia.
"Did she say who?" asked Philip. "She sometimes has little romances over the summer with some of the local boys"
"Henry Kingston from New York apparently" Theodosia replied.
"Yes, we've met" replied Philip. "He seemed like a good lad, not like someone who would go around and break girls hearts"
"It may be nothing," said Theodosia. "She may have just made the whole thing up for a laugh, but after what happened at the Ball the last time, well I just want to keep her safe"
"So do I" assured Philip. "You were right to tell me"
"Despite all that, are you excited for the ball?" she asked.
"I am a little" replied Philip, his smile just visible to Theodosia through the darkness. "But I think I should tell you this now, rather than later"
"Do tell?" Theodosia asked curiously.
"I am going to have to dance with other girls tomorrow," Philip said reluctantly.
"I see" replied Theodosia.
"It's just, we cant be a couple yet" explained Philip. "I have to show myself as a good grandson and host which means I must dance with everyone's daughters"
"Then I guess there will be no objection to me dancing with all their sons?" commented Theodosia.
"No" chuckled Philip quietly. "Perhaps not"
"I hope we can get one dance together?" she said hopefully.
"Of course" replied Philip, "It would be rude to ignore my special guest"
That morning the house was already in chaos, Philip and his siblings were staying well out of their Grandmother's way unless she should scold them for being incompetent. Philip, however, had a task of his own to complete before the Ball.
"Philip is that you lurking about out their?" called Angelica.
Stumbling out of hiding Philip leant in the doorway, "Yes it's me"
"Make yourself useful" she smiled, "hold this"
Philip smiled and walked into his Aunts room, taking the dress from her hands.
"Hold it up high" she ordered, this order slightly muffled as she balanced a needle and thread in her mouth.
"This Angie's?" asked Philip.
"No, mine" replied Angelica, her concentration set on the lace.
"Its pretty" he commented.
"You can borrow it if you want" she teased.
Philip was ready with a comeback but cracked as he saw his Aunt laugh.
"Very funny" he replied.
"Now," she said, "the last time you came to find me you wanted something"
"I need a favour," he asked, looking over his shoulder.
"And what would that be?" smiled Angelica.
"Can you teach me to dance?" he whispered.
Angelica laughed, "Darling, you can dance"
"Not properly" he replied quietly.
"Give me this" chuckled Angelica, taking her dress back and placing it on her bed. "What do you mean 'not properly' Philip?"
Before answering Philip hurried across the room and closed the door. "I lied to Mama"
Angelica put her hands on her hips. "About what?"
Philip ran a hand through his hair, "You remember those dance lessons that Angie and I took with Mrs Washington and her children?"
"Yes very well" replied Angelica.
"I didn't learn any dancing, Angie did, I just played the piano" confessed Philip.
"Philip Hamilton!" exclaimed Angelica.
"Yes yes, I know" hushed Philip. "I lied and I need your help, please!"
"What dances do you know?" asked Angelica, relaxing a little.
"The Virginia Reel and little of the Waltz" muttered Philip.
"So you never learnt the Minuet then?" concluded Angelica.
"No"
"And you expect me to teach you the Minuet in five minutes?" exclaimed Angelica.
"Just give me a little idea of it, I'll just pick it up as I go along" urged Philip.
"This is one of the most beautiful and distinguished dances of the French and English Court Philip Hamilton, you cannot just pick it up as you go along" exclaimed Angelica despairingly.
"Then teach me, please" begged Philip. "I do not want to fail Mama"
Angelica sighed, "Right, watch me"
Lifting up her dress to show her feet she said, "This is your rhythm, one and two, one and two, one and two, three and four", moving her feet accordingly.
"That's quick" observed Philip.
"We have not added the arms yet" replied Angelica. "Now try the feet with me this time"
"With a few stumbles, Philip managed to gather the steps.
"Now the arms," said Angelica. "We start facing this way"
Philip took his Aunts hand and she quickly said, "You must remember to keep the woman on the right or else the dance will be wrong and you'll end up with a male partner when the couples switch"
"No pressure then" muttered Philip.
"Now those steps I just taught you, let's do them again," said Angelica. "And-"
Philip muttered the numbers under his breath and managed to keep up.
"After that part, the woman will turn under your right arm and she God help us, will finish in front of you like so" explained Angelica, demonstrating as she spoke.
Philip nodded, "What's next"
"You take her hand here" ordered Angelica, holding one her of arms aloft. "And you hold her waist on top of her other hand"
Philip did as he was told, "Like this?"
"Yes correct" replied Angelica. "Then we do those exact steps from the start all over again but just sideways"
"Is this where I way lose a toe or two?" smirked Philip.
"Careful young man" teased Angelica, "you'll lose more than a toe if you keep those cheeky comments up"
"Yes Ma'am" chuckled Philip.
"Now let's repeat those steps twice" ordered Angelica, slowly walking Philip through them.
"When do we change partners?" asked Philip.
"After the second step of steps" replied Angelica, "you then let your lady go and hopefully will end up with a new one"
"And then what?"
"You will go back to the beginning and repeat the dance five or six times before the song ends" smiled Angelica.
"Okay, I think I'll remember it" commented Philip, still a little unsure.
"Come on" smiled Angelica, "let's give it one more go"
"It is awfully kind of you Mrs B," said Eliza. "You don't have to miss the ball"
"Oh Miss Eliza, its' alright" hushed Mrs B. "I would much rather sit up here with the boys that get involved with all the dancing, I'm much too old"
"You are good to us" smiled Eliza, embracing her.
"That's alright, I remember the times when I would have to keep you and Miss Peggy up here when your parents held the Ball" smiled Mrs B.
"We were little terrors" chuckled Eliza. "Forever trying to escape the room. I am sure my boys will give you no such trouble"
"I do not think so, I have kept a little of the blancmange to one side for them" whispered Mrs B. "That should keep them inline"
Eliza glanced over at her sons, all playing in the corner of the room, "If that does not do the trick, nothing else will" she replied.
Their whispers were interrupted as Angie flew through the door. "Mama, Mama, I cant fix my hair, it's a disaster!"
"Angie" scolded Eliza. "I have taught you better than to storm in a room without knocking"
"But Mama" whined Angie. "This is an emergency!"
"Go on" urged Mrs B. Sensing Eliza about to give a reply. "Ill manage in here"
"You are an angel" replied Eliza, escorting a flustered Angie from the room.
"Angie you look beautiful" assured Theodosia, "stop fussing, your mother fixed your hair"
"But Henry is going to be there tonight and I need to look my best" replied Angie, still arranging her curls around her neck.
Theodosia looked at the open door, Angie was not exactly being quiet. "I thought Henry was a secret?"
"Not for much longer" giggled Angie. "He said he something very important to say to me tonight"
Theodosia got up and swiftly closed the door. "How has he told you this?"
Angie pressed her finger to her lips and hurried over to her bed, where she pulled a fist full of letters from underneath the mattress. "By love letter of course"
"Let me see them" ordered Theodosia.
"No" exclaimed Angie, holding them to her chest. "They are private!"
"How have these letters got past your mother?" demanded Theodosia.
"No one cares to check who I am writing to" replied Angie. "They just all assume that I am writing to one of my friends"
"Angie how serious is this attachment?" asked Theodosia.
Angie smiled, "I don't know'
"Has he made you an offer of marriage?" demanded Theodosia.
Angie gasped, "I wish!. I think that is what he is planning on asking me tonight"
Theodosia had to sit down.
"Can you imagine it!" exclaimed Angie dancing around the room. "Mrs Angelica Kingston, how fine does that sound!"
"This is not a joke Angie" scolded Theodosia. "This is very serious"
"Am I not being serious?" retorted Angie.
Theodosia sighed. "I need to get dressed, just please promise me you won't do anything you'll regret"
Angie was not listening she had continued to dance around the room, barely noticing as Theodosia slipped away.
"You are ready early"
Philip spun at the sound of his father's voice. "Yeah Pops I um didn't have much to do"
"Apart from fixing your waistcoat buttons it would seem" pointed Alexander.
Philip looked down at his waistcoat and saw that they were done up incorrectly. "Thanks, Pa" replied Philip, starting with his buttons all over again.
Alexander stepped into his son's room and closed the door behind him.
Philip noted this and asked, "Everything alright?"
"Yes" replied Alexander, sitting on Philip's bed. "I just have been trying to find a moment to thank you"
"Um, for what?" asked Philip, sitting down beside him.
"For looking after your mother and from what I hear of it, your sister as well," said Alexander.
"You don't have to thank me for that Pa, I'm supposed to do whatever is necessary to keep them safe" urged Philip.
"Which includes assaulting a government official?" commented Alexander.
Philip was mute, he did not know how much his father knew about what transpired between Jefferson and his mother.
"I am not criticizing you" retracted Alexander, seeing his son's expression. "Your mother has told me what happened and believe me you behaved more sensibly than I would have done"
"I was going to do worse but Mama made me cease" muttered Philip. "I would have killed him if she would have let me"
"That makes two of us" replied Alexander.
He paused for a moment, "I should have been here Philip. I should have come with you all and dealt with Jefferson here"
"Don't say that Pa" urged Philip. "No one knew what terror he would cause"
"He made threats Philip and I did not listen" confessed Alexander. "I should have-"
"Do not do this to yourself Pa" exclaimed Philip, "please"
Alexander took his son's hand. "You are a man now you should know this"
"Pa?"
"In several weeks time, Washington is stepping down from the Presidency. I am along with Jefferson will be fighting for his position" explained Alexander.
"I-I dont understand?" stammered Philip.
"None of us do really" replied Alexander, running his hands through his hair. "But I need you to promise me something"
"Anything"
"This fighting may very well get ugly" began Alexander. "It may get very personal and I want to ensure that your siblings and especially your mother is kept out of it"
"How can I do that?" asked Philip.
"Keep gossip to a minimum" replied Alexander. "I will do my best to keep the fighting between myself and the other candidates"
"I will Pa" replied Philip. "I promise"
"Good lad" smiled Alexander. "Now on a different note, remember where you are tonight. I do not want to hear of any conduct of an intimate nature"
"Pa!" exclaimed Philip. "In Grandmama's house? I wouldn't dare"
Alexander laughed, "I should think so too, no wandering off with anyone, understood?"
"Yes, Sir" replied Philip with a smile.
"Go on" urged Alexander patting his son's shoulder. We had best get downstairs, the guests have to be greeted by someone"
Theodosia held up her mirror and was trying to get a clear view of the back of her dress.
It had been a project over the last week or so. Eliza had kindly donated one of her old dresses and with some help, Theodosia had managed to alter it.
It was a pale blue colour which she had accented the cuffs and neckline with lace. The shape was approved by Mrs Schuyler, as she would not allow any of the girls to show too much chest or arm.
Theodosia had also spent a large proportion of the day wrestling with her hair. Without Angie to help, it had been quite troublesome.
Of course, Angie was having troubles of her own as most of her day was spent venturing out into the garden trying to find flowers to add to her hair. She had offered to collect some flowers for her, but Theodosia knew that the texture of her would cause her enough problems without adding delicate petals and stems into the fray.
"Come on Theodosia" called Angie bursting into the room. "The guests will be arriving soon!"
"Just coming" replied Theodosia.
"Oh my god!" gasped Angie.
"What, what!" exclaimed Theodosia, trying to read her friend's expression.
"That is never Mama's old blue dress!" cried Angie. "God why do I even bother, I look positively dull compared to you!"
"Angie you look beautiful, that shade of pink on you is really becoming" assured Theodosia. "And those flowers you found match your dress perfectly!"
"You really think so?" asked Angie.
"Would I lie to you?" asked Theodosia.
"No" smiled Angie.
"Then stop your fussing" teased Theodosia, grabbing her fan off the vanity.
"Fuss!" exclaimed Angie, "I do not know the meaning of the word!"
"Now who is the one lying?" mused Theodosia, wrapping her arm with Angie's.
"Well, I only a fuss a little" confessed Angie, before the girls both laughed and headed for the stairs.
The guest were slowly beginning to arrive, all dressed with the sole aim to outdo the others. Most had not had to travel far so many of the ladies had braved intricate and delicate hairstyles, which normally would have been ruined by an arduous carriage ride. All the gentlemen were dressed in spotless suits, all adorning tricorn hats and the most respectable also carried a cane. The younger generation, already eager to dance and were calling across the courtyard to each other, swiftly breaking off into friendship pairs and trios before entering the front doors.
Normally Philip's eyes were dancing between all of the girls, spotting any low necklines or flirtatious looks very quickly, but this year he was having to stop himself staring at just one.
His Theodosia looked positively angelic.
Theodosia was separated from him by just Angie, but with his Aunt one side and his mother the other, there was little chance to compliment her.
He bowed and kissed gloved hands, sparing her a glance whenever he could. However, he did take a deep breath as the infamous Charles Peterson almost strutted through the door.
Fortunately, his delightful sister made it to the family first.
After quickly greeting the last family Theodosia looked back towards Philip only to see the young woman throw her arms around him. Angie squealed with delight as they also shared a hug but when Philip saw Theodosia's face and was quick to introduce her.
"Miss Eleanor Peterson, may I introduce-"
"Miss Theodosia Burr" the young woman smiled. "You do not need to tell me who she is Philip!"
Theodosia relaxed as the young woman flung her arms around her, "Oh Miss Burr, Angie has told me such much about you in her letters, why I feel as if we are friends already"
"I would like us to be just that Miss Eleanor" replied Theodosia.
"But I must say the one thing Angie did not tell me was how beautiful you are" smiled, Eleanor.
Theodosia's eyes looked to the floor. "You flatter me"
Taking her hands Eleanor, "I do not lie, Miss Theodosia, I consider it my greatest virtue"
Suddenly without warning, Eleanor's brother broke into the conversation. "Careful Eleanor, I hear if you hold their hands, the dark will rub off"
Theodosia quickly replied, "I don't believe we have ever met Sir"
"No we wouldn't have, I don't associate myself with your kind" mocked the young man. "But if you need help finding your way to the slave houses you only have to ask. You'd fit in better there anyway"
Eleanor snapped, "Get lost will you, you are a guest, how dare you!"
"I thought England would have taught you some manners Charles" retorted Philip. "I believe you owe Miss Burr an apology"
Charles laughed giving Theodosia a good look up and down, "I don't think so"
Seeing the situation nearing escalation Angelica cut across, "Charles, where is your mother, I shall miss her this evening if she has not come!" She wrapped her arm in his and walked him towards the ballroom, turning back to wink and Philip.
"Thank you" Philip mouthed, before having to greet someone else.
"You must excuse my brother" apologised Eleanor, "my father's ideologies have corrupted him completely"
"He has not been the first and he will certainly not be the last to comment on me as such" replied Theodosia.
"I will ensure he does not bother you for the entire evening" assured Eleanor, "but you must forgive me, I fear I have left him alone for too long, even Mrs Schuyler Church might not be able to contain him"
"Enjoy the evening Miss Eleanor" smiled Theodosia.
"Indeed I shall" she replied, before slipping into the crowds.
As Theodosia was beginning to gather herself suddenly Angie grabbed her arm.
"Look! Look!" she whispered excitedly, "It's Henry!"
Theodosia looked up as a very fine young man walked through the door. He was tall, well built, with light blonde hair and delightful blue eyes. She could see why Angie's young heart had fallen for him. Theodosia couldn't think of many girls who wouldn't.
He greeted each of the family members individually, before shaking Philip's hand.
"You look taller my friend" Henry commented, patting Philip on the back. "How are you fairing?"
"Well Henry, and yourself?" smiled Philip.
"Much the same I'm afraid" laughed Henry, "work and no rest"
"It will pay off someday" commented Philip.
"You are definitely your father's son" teased Henry, "those sound like this words"
Philip laughed himself before introducing his sister and Theodosia.
"Of course, it is good to see you Miss Angelica" smiled Henry, politely kissing her hand.
Angie blushed and giggled a little, "it is always a pleasure to see you, Henry"
Theodosia watched him carefully. She had half expected him to be a little odd, casting looks at all the girls or waltz in with several on his arms. But this young man seemed genuinely friendly, however visibly not as attached as Angie made him out to be.
"And Miss Theodosia Burr, it is a pleasure" smiled Henry, also kissing her hand. "I should like if I may be so bold as to request a dance with you tonight?"
"You may Sir" replied Theodosia, "I have several dances still untaken"
"But you will dance with me won't you Henry?!" pipped Angie, looking up at him desperately.
Henry stuttered for a moment, a little taken aback by her bluntness before smoothly replying, "But of course Miss Angelica, it would be rude not to dance with the hostesses granddaughter"
Theodosia cringed a little at Angie behaviour and rather commended Henry for being so obliging.
"Ah" smiled Henry, glancing back at the doorway. "Esther over here"
Theodosia looked as a beautiful young woman cast her eyes around the hallway before spotting Henry and quickly made her way to his side.
"Master Philip and Miss Angelica Hamilton, Miss Theodosia Burr, may I introduce Miss Esther Harrington" proclaimed Henry.
"It's a pleasure to meet you all" the young woman smiled.
"Come, my dear, let us take advantage of an empty ballroom," said Henry, holding out his arm for her. "I shall see you all later"
Theodosia and Philip smiled as the pair left them. Theodosia half expected Angie to be ready to throw a fit but she seemed remarkably unfazed by what had just happened. That young woman was clearly the subject of Henry's affection and not Angie.
"I wonder who that young woman is?" Theodosia dared to comment.
"No doubt a friend of some kind" replied Angie, "But I know where his heart truly lies"
Theodosia looked over to Philip who just raised his eyebrows before turning to greet another guest.
She knew she would have to keep Angie from embarrassing herself. Her dear friend was unfortunately very deluded in the matters of the heart.
"You look lovely"
Theodosia looked over her shoulder as she gazed out of the window. She smiled as she saw Philip standing behind her.
"You do not look half bad yourself" she commented.
He subtly took her hand, leant in and whispered, "You have no idea how much I want to kiss you at this moment"
"Patience is a virtue" she replied.
"I'm not sure I have many of those" he smirked.
"No indeed" replied Theodosia.
Before she spoke again she saw a familiar face appear behind them as their reflection bounced off the glass. Turning around to face him she asked, "What do you think Mr Hamilton?"
Philip pulled his hand from hers and turned to face his father.
"I think he has a few" commented Alexander before plainly ordering. "Both of you, socialise, please. It does not look good to have you both whispering in the corner"
"No Pops, we weren't whispering-" exclaimed Philip, before Theodosia hushed him.
"Of course Mr Hamilton, right away Sir" she nodded.
"Hm" murmured Alexander, before leaving them both.
"What's gotten into you?" asked Philip.
"We have your Aunt's support Philip, your mother may ignore our closeness but your father most certainly does not" she replied. "We need to be careful"
"Right like always" sighed Philip, "let's go," he said holding out his arm.
"I do believe dinner will be called soon" she commented as they walked across the ballroom.
"I believe you are right" he replied, noticing his Grandfather holding a glass aloft before tapping it with a spoon.
This brought the talking in the room to a close and the guests all listened whilst sipping their drinks.
"Ladies and Gentlemen if you would kindly follow us through into the dining room, where our dinner is awaiting us" called out Mr Schuyler.
Slowly the guests filtered through into the dining room and found their assigned seats.
Theodosia was having some difficulty but she heard Henry call out her name and wave at her. "You are here Miss Burr"
She smiled and excused her way past the other guests and got to her seat.
"You are in between Esther and I" smiled Henry, pulling her chair out. "Allow me"
"Thank you" replied Theodosia, sitting comfortably.
"I must say" commented Esther, "all of this food just laid out is very European!"
"I think it is so the servants can enjoy their food while it's hot, instead of serving us first" replied Theodosia.
"Well that's a marvellous idea" smiled Esther.
Esther wasn't the only one to comment on the food. Charles called out loudly from far down the table, "What's all this Schuyler?"
"This dear Charles is our dinner" replied Mr Schuyler. "Help yourself"
"But who will serve it to us?" scoffed Charles.
"You will serve yourself" replied Mr Schuyler. This caused several waves of noise from the other guests as they all whispered amongst themselves.
"It is so that our servants may enjoy their food at the same time as ourselves, that is the equality of the evening" hushed Mr Schuyler.
"But-" exclaimed Charles about to protest further until Philip swiftly commented, "Oh come along Charles, if you can't use a spoon to pick up potatoes by yourself at your age, you are in trouble"
Charles scowled at Philip whilst laughter erupted from the younger guests, with even several smirks appearing on the adults.
"I believe I was trying to make a point Hamilton" he hissed.
"And your point was stupid," remarked Eleanor. "Eat your dinner Charles, stop making a spectacle of yourself"
Defeated Charles pulled his napkin off the table and flung it down on his lap.
"Please eat" urged Mrs Schuyler, lifting the lid off some vegetables before offering them to the guests around her.
With slightly confused smiles, everyone began serving their own dinner and passing dishes up and down the table.
"Miss Burr am I correct in hearing that you speak several languages?" asked Henry.
Theodosia covered her mouth with her napkin as she swallowed her mouthful of food, "Yes I can"
"What would you say you are most fluent in?" he asked.
"French probably" she nodded.
"Ah pareil pour moi!, same as me!" smiled Esther.
Theodosia chuckled, "What about yourself Mr Kingston?"
"I'm afraid I'm only fluent in the Kings English" he laughed, mocking himself. "My parents did not push me in my studies as a boy, so now I only imagine what my dear Esther is whispering about me"
"Henry" exclaimed Esther, blushing. "We are in company"
"Oh forgive me dearest" smirked Henry.
"Please tell me if I am being too bold" began Theodosia, "but are you two a piece?"
"Is this that obvious?" whispered Henry with a smile.
"I'm afraid so" smiled Theodosia.
"Henry and myself have been courting for over a year now," said Esther in hushed tones.
"That's lovely" replied Theodosia, trying to not to think about how this was going to crush Angie. She hoped she was not going to have to tell her.
"Would you ladies excuse me for a moment?" said Henry, rising from his seat.
"Come back quick" teased Esther, watching him make his way up the dining room.
"To tell me, Miss Burr, do you have a suitor of your own," she asked.
Theodosia bit her lip.
Esther gasped a little, "You do! Who is it?"
"I'm afraid its all a big secret" replied Theodosia returning her attention to her dinner.
"Oh come on!" urged Esther, "you don't even have to tell me his name"
"Even that would be too much," said Theodosia. "Please let's discuss something else"
"As you wish" smiled Esther, unfazed by Theodosia's request. "What family do you have in New York?"
"Just my father and I" replied Theodosia, "I do see my mother's sister from time to time, but it's really just Papa and me"
"That sounds like heaven" sighed Esther, "I am from a family of nine"
"It can get lonely" commented Theodosia, "especially with a father as strict as mine"
"I would take solitude over all my siblings screaming" chuckled Esther. "Would you believe it, six brothers, I'm outnumbered!"
"Now that does sound chaotic" commented Theodosia.
"I should hope that Henry and I will be married by the fall" whispered Esther. "I would love some peace and quiet"
"Has he spoken with your family?" asked Theodosia.
"Oh yes, we have known each other since we were children" replied Esther. "Henry spoke with my father a few days ago but he refuses to tell me what they discussed, I can only dream that they talked about our marriage"
"I hope so" smiled Theodosia, "You two seem perfect for each other"
She looked across at Angie who seemed bored beyond belief, only looking up when Henry came back in the room. Her hopeful eyes followed him the full way back to the table, barely leaving him for more than a second. Theodosia could see she was besotted but knew there was little she could do to avoid a broken heart.
An hour or so after dinner the musicians sprung to life and all of the young guests scrambled to find their partners.
"Get in your pairs for the Virginia Reel" shouted the conductor.
"Shall we?" asked Theodosia, holding out her hand to Philip.
"Why not" he replied with a wink, leading them quickly into the line.
The music erupted and the first pairs began the dance, slowly moving down the two lines. Eventually, everyone was spinning and clapping, swapping partners several times as the adults watched with pleasant smiles.
"The Virginia Reel" sighed Angelica, "God it seems a lifetime ago since we danced that"
"Well, Papa decided it might be a good idea to give the younger guests a chance to really dance before we begin the Waltz" replied Eliza.
"A very smart idea" chuckled Angelica. She cast her eyes to Alexander who was not joining in the conversation.
"And what pray is the cause of your distraction dear Alexander?" she teased, her question alerting him.
"Just watching Philip that's all" he replied.
"Surely you should be watching Angie rather than Philip" commented Eliza. "Philip is behaving himself wonderfully"
"He seems quite infatuated with the Burr girl" muttered Alexander.
"Her name is Theodosia Alexander and I must say all this nonsense about family rivals must stop" snapped Eliza, "She is guest in this house and you act as if he is dancing with King George himself"
"She has got a point" reiterated Angelica.
"My point still stands," said Alexander, "perhaps this holiday has done the opposite of what we planned"
"If there was any planning it was done entirely by you" retorted Eliza, "Theodosia is my guest and a playmate for Angie, she has been invaluable on this trip"
"Maybe" muttered Alexander. "We shall have to see"
As the music came to end all of the younger guests groaned as some of the adults organised themselves for the Minuet.
Angie pushed her way over to Henry before blurting, "Can I dance with you for this one?"
"Oh Miss Angelica forgive me but I am already taken" replied Henry, showing Esther to his right.
"Oh," said Angie sadly.
"The next one maybe?" suggested Henry.
Excited by the idea, Angie perked up again, "Yes please"
"Consider it done" replied Henry.
"Come here Angie" called Philip. "Mama will be watching us for this one"
Angie made her way over to her brother and commented, "You don't know this dance"
"Yes I do" he replied.
"Very well, but if you fall and embarrass me in front of everyone I will not be pleased" she proclaimed.
"Just take my hand" sighed Philip, "please"
"Fine" she groaned, getting herself into position.
Philip cast his eyes a few rows down and saw Theodosia happily chatting with one of the local boys.
They had agreed to only dance a few times, lest his father should come and physically break them apart.
As the dance began Philip kept counting under his breath and managed to keep up. From the corner of his eye, he saw his mother and his Aunt watching him. He hoped to do them proud.
Several turns later Theodosia found herself back in Philips' arms.
"Hello stranger" she smiled and the dance began again. "Lost any toes yet?"
"I entered this ballroom with ten and I plan to leave with ten" he commented.
"Best of luck" she whispered before the dance broke them apart again.
Unfortunately two gentlemen later, she ended up in the arms of Charles Peterson who instantly mocked her.
"I didn't think you savages learnt any dances from the higher society"
"You would be surprised at what I can do" she retorted, trying to concentrate.
"If I had it my way, people like you would stay on the plantations where you belong" he whispered.
Purposely stepping on his toes Theodosia replied, "Then it is good that you are not in charge then isn't it? Those are old ideas, it would do some good to read the enlightened texts, then perhaps you would not be so incompetent"
Before Charles got the chance to reply the dance came to an end, Theodosia pulled her hands from his grasp and commented, "Look, you see, the dark doesn't rub off"
She turned on her heels and headed for the exit, taking a deep breath as she leant against the wall outside the ballroom.
As she caught her breath she heard other music coming from outside and silently slipped out the front door and followed it.
She saw a large crowd of people singing around several fires, with the younger children playing in the dust.
As Theodosia approached a friendly face called out her name.
She smiled as Abraham ran up to her, "You alright Miss-" he stopped and just stared.
"Abraham are you alright?" she teased.
"Yeah, sorry" he laughed, staring at the floor for a few seconds, "you just look real pretty that's all"
"You have cleaned up well yourself" she replied, "that tie is very nice"
"It was my Pa's," he said, running his hand over it. "But it ain't half choking me to death"
Theodosia chuckled, "How are things out here?"
"Good, very good" he replied, "Everybody is singing and eating good food"
"It looks grand" she smiled.
"Want to come and join us?" he offered.
"I had better not," she said politely. "I will be missed inside, besides it looks like someone is waiting for you'
Abraham looked to his side and saw Constance waiting patiently, "They are gonna start the dancing now Abe, wanna dance with me?"
"Oh nah, no thanks Constance" replied Abraham. "I'm a little busy"
"Oh okay," she replied, casting a look at Theodosia before heading back towards the fires.
"Why didn't you dance with her?" asked Theodosia.
"Ah she's alright," said Abraham, brushing off the subject.
"She likes you" commented Theodosia.
"Constance!" exclaimed Abraham, "Nah, she's my friend"
"If you say so" teased Theodosia, "Now I really must go, but enjoy yourself tonight, however, I want you awake for our lesson tomorrow"
"Yes Ma'am" he replied with a smile, watching her as she heading back around to the front of the house.
"There you are!" exclaimed Philip, seeing Theodosia slip back in the house.
Theodosia jumped at the sound of his voice, "Yes I just went for some air"
"I saw that you ended up dancing with Charles," said Philip. "I had hoped that the dance would have ended before then"
"It's alright, I put him in his place" hushed Theodosia, "now I shall go back first then you wait and follow in a few minutes, we don't want anyone getting any ideas"
However, both of them headed back at the same time as the music came to a stop.
Slipping in the back, Philip looked over as his Grandfather brought the room to a quiet.
"Now Ladies and Gentlemen I have been asked by a guest if he may announce something to you all, Henry"
Theodosia's heart fell, she looked over the room at Angie who suddenly seemed to awaken, sitting upright in her chair and eyes fixed on Henry.
Henry smiled as he spoke to the crowd, "Thank you for your time everyone but I want to make a special announcement. For the last year I have had the privilege of having a wonderful woman in my life, we have shared so much together and I have kept this a secret until today, but I suspect that the lady in question has had some suspicions"
Henry reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box, "I would like to share with you all our official engagement, Esther my dear, will you have me?"
Theodosia's eyes flew to Angie's whose face collapsed.
The crowd applauded loudly and cheered as Esther and Henry kissed before all the girls encircled Esther to get a look at the ring.
"Oh no" muttered Philip as she saw his sister start to cry.
Angie flew out of the room, drawing a lot of attention as she did.
"I'll see to her Miss Eliza" exclaimed Theodosia, seeing Eliza get up from her chair.
Theodosia rushed after Angie and followed the noise to the library, where she found her friend sprawled across the sofa, sobbing her heart out into a pillow.
"Oh, sweetheart" sighed Theodosia, closing the door behind her.
"He is lying!" cried Angie. "He is in love with me!"
"Darling he is not in love with you," said Theodosia. "He loves Miss Esther, you must accept that"
"That bitch!" hissed Angie. "He can't possibly love her"
"Who taught you foul words like that!" snapped Theodosia. "Now please calm down"
"How can I possibly calm down" cried Angie. "He told me he loved me!"
"Did he ever write or speak those words to you Angelica?" demanded Theodosia.
"Yes!" whined Angie. "Well not as such"
"Then what are you crying about," asked Theodosia. "You have worked yourself into a frenzy over nothing!"
"I love him" exclaimed Angie, before flopping back down onto her pillow.
Before Theodosia could say anything else, a rather concerned Henry opened the door.
"Mr Kingston, I really wouldn't" she hushed, trying to stop him from coming in.
"Please do tell me what has upset Miss Angelica so?" he asked.
"You have you cruel beast" shrieked Angie climbing off the sofa and throwing a china vase at the door.
Theodosia lept back as the shards flew everywhere, she couldn't stop the inevitable.
"Why do you call me such names Miss Angelica what have I done to offend you?" exclaimed Henry, closing the door behind him.
"You said you loved me and now you are going to marry someone else!" cried Angie, releasing a fresh wave of tears.
"Now Miss Angelica I have said no such thing," said Henry, defending himself.
"You did, you did!" sobbed Angie, stamping her feet.
"When did I say this?" asked Henry.
"In your letters to me!" cried Angie.
"Madam, I said no such thing" proclaimed Henry.
"You liar!" shrieked Angie, rushing towards him. "I hate you!"
"Miss Angelica please" hushed Henry, trying to calm her down.
"No" cried Angie, "I hate you, I will hate you till I die" before slapping him across the face.
At this action, Theodosia pushed between the two.
"Angelica Hamilton that is enough, sit down" she ordered.
"But-" cried Angie.
"I was not asking" retorted Theodosia.
She turned to Henry who was keeping his composure. "Please forgive her, she's just a child"
"It is alright Miss Theodosia" sighed Henry. "I am only sorry that the night had to end this way"
"Return to the party Sir and to your fiance" urged Theodosia. "For Angie's sake, can what happened in this room stay between us?"
"I would never dream of harming her or her reputation" nodded Henry.
He called back to Angie as he left the room. "I am deeply sorry if I have hurt you, Miss Hamilton. If I have wounded you, it was unintentionally done. I will wish and pray for your continued health and happiness"
Once the door was closed and Henry's footsteps disappeared Theodosia turned back to Angie.
"I hope you are satisfied with that horrendous display" she scolded. "It's a wonder we didn't have half the ballroom in here with all that shrieking"
Angie sat on the sofa, her head to the floor as she picked at the loose threads on her dress. "I love him" she whispered.
"Oh, Angie" sighed Theodosia, sitting down beside her. "I will need to see those letters"
Angie nodded, "Okay"
"You will have to write and apologise to him," said Theodosia. "You struck him without reason"
Angie sniffed and rummaged in her dress pocket for her handkerchief. "I gave him a lock of my hair"
"What?"
"In one of my letters, I sent him a lock of my hair" she confessed. "He will probably send it back"
"He probably will" nodded Theodosia.
"I think I will retire now" mumbled Angie. "I have got a headache"
Theodosia watched as her young friend slowly walked out of the library. She wished the night did not have to end like this, but matters of the heart were not always so easy to handle.
So note time!
I chose not to add Stephen and Peggy in this chapter as I felt there was enough going on without adding more characters into the mix.
So the Minuet is a classical dance made popular by the French. I did try to find other dances that were more colonial but it proved to difficult.
The moves and patterns I wrote about are pretty accurate to the Minuet so I hope it does bore you. On the dance note, The Virginia Reel did not appear till the 18th century but it is a popular dance that many people have heard of, so I chose to use it.