XIV. My Fair Lady
While remembering Newport mentioned I could visit his family any time, and I was appreciative I had a place to go, Kenny mentioned I could drop in. I admit, the prospect of staying with a bachelor like Kenny at my young age was more intriguing. When I showed up at his doorstep, relaying what had happened, he settled me in and took me to the Boar's Head Tavern.
"Cheer up, mate, I've been there before. Hence why I hardly stick with any one wench for long. There's far more out there. Of all the birds you've met so far, which one would you rather take home for the evening?"
"Come now, Kenny, I'm not as suave as you in that regard." I teased.
"Oh, 'tis all in good humor, Smithy." He laughed, then stopped. "Wait, you're not... ?" His mouth dropped open. He knew the answer. "But Smithy, you're not a man! Well, I'll make a man of you soon enough. In the meanwhile," he toasted. "Carpe diem!"
"Seize the day—indeed!" I agreed.
Kenny decided he needed to teach me a thing or two about what he considered "manhood." He helped me to appear more "manly:" by becoming stronger with exercise, as well as punching or kicking flower bags to gain more body strength, during the time I stayed with him. He also encouraged me to become more experienced with women, as he apparently had a great deal of expertise himself. I wasn't so sure of his approach, as I didn't like the idea of seemingly taking advantage of them.
However, Kenny had a natural charm, trifling with nearly every lass in town: Gillian, Emma...and the list would go on. Naturally, he'd tell me it was difficult making and keeping arrangements with every one of them; and so he was selective and prioritized his time with the most appealing ones. And what if Gillian and Emma got angry? Jane and Sue were available. In any case, the more selective and occupied he appeared, the more desirable he was. I found that remarkable.
I decided to follow his lead, at least by getting accustomed to being around more women. I never had problems attracting lasses, especially since there was no lack thereof around Westminster and London. I found they seemed less serious about courtship than those back up north, and were more wiling to enjoy the moment.
However, I also found such maidens to be "girls." How foolish they were! They weren't interested in what I'd consider meaningful conversation, nor would they listen to my escapades across the sea. Instead, their interests were in the frivolous details of those in town, what dress they wore to the last ball, and how Richard left Margaret for Mary.
Meanwhile, I asked for Kenny's opinion about older women. He regarded them highly. "Older lasses don't beat around the bush. They cut to the chase, and will not waste time. But beware, they'll find another man if one portrays himself as an amateur."
My chances with such a lady were unlikely. Most older ladies were already engaged, or seemingly had more successful suitors. However, I was never one to cede easily.
In spite these frustrations, I enjoyed being near the City I loved. While Kendall was occupied, or out with one of his ladies, I'd go into London to be in the midst of it all. Even with all the bustle, it was rather peaceful.
Meanwhile, I often saw a lady on my way to the markets on Cheapside, or merely going on leisurely strolls to City. I'd sometimes see her with other men, or occasionally by herself, yet rarely with other women. While she was clearly of means, she appeared independently wealthy, which was rare for a woman. The local men seemingly went out of their way for her. I liked her self-sufficiency, and poise, and seemingly knowing what she wanted, and being capable of obtaining it... . Despite reminding myself of our age and class difference and general unattainability, my attraction for her grew. I began regularly making it a point to "find" myself in similar places, admiring her from a distance. However, one time in the market, she surprisingly approached me.
"Good morrow, John,"
"Good day, Catherine."
"Nice to see you're out and about. Are you staying in London these days? You seem to be around more frequently than before... ."
I wondered how long she had observed me? "I'm in Westminster, but I make my way to London quite often."
"With Master George Kendall, I presume?"
"Indeed. What brings you to London?"
She paused for a moment. "Oh, I have many acquaintances, here. I have a home nearby in Barking. I came in town to pay a visit to someone and pick up a few things."
Gradually, I'd spend more time with Cate, riding with her in the countryside. (She was quite the equestrian and jouster, often outpacing me and knocking me off my own horse. She also appeared to have a keen sense of swordsmanship.) Whenever I'd stroll with her in the nicer parts of town, I noted some women would often watch us, and whisper amongst one another. Was it scorn, envy, or possibly both? I didn't know. I suppose it was unusual that she fared particularly well with gentlemen; though not too surprising given some of her activities. Yet it was intriguing that she went to and fro as she pleased, without any input or consultation from a husband or father, as was normally expected of women. Perhaps they were threatened by her.
Nevertheless, these walks turned into accompanying her to her own and to other friends' homes and their festivities. On one occasion, she told me, "Harry is having a banquet at his home in the forthcoming week. Care to join me?"
"Certainly," I replied without hesitation.
I appreciated any moment I got to spend with her, even though I also questioned if we were becoming too close? Nevertheless, as she appeared to want my opinion on certain things, including the color dress she should wear, and insisted on paying for my tailoring, I reasoned with myself we were only friends. As much as I personally wanted things to be different, I couldn't let things go out of hand... .
On that day, being my most distinguished, I rode toward her house. I waited by the foyer, as she made her way down her main staircase. I was in awe of her scarlet red velvet dress, with puffed shoulders, long sleeves and tightly-fitted bodice. Her lips were equally red and her hair was tied with an ornate headpiece. I had no words, as my mouth gaped open in awe.
"I had my seamstress take the seams in an inch or so, ensuring 'twould not be too loose... .John you are ready, are you? Harry does not like his guests to be tardy."
"Of course," I collected myself.
We rode toward an elaborate estate outside of London. "Here we are, at Southampton House."
"Southampton House—the Earl's House?!"
"Course," she laughed. "Harry is the Earl, after all."
Henry Wriothesley, the Earl of Southampton: how did I not know?! Cate's "typical" circle of friends were often high in society.
This was likely one of the largest festivities I've ever been to. I couldn't recall all the people there, but surely every high ranking noble must have been in attendance. I began feeling out of place. In the meantime, we had sat down and ate several courses, and danced a few dances.
Soon after, a distinguished young man with long auburn hair, approached us. "Why Cate, 'tis good to see you."
"Always a pleasure, Harry."
He glanced at me and noted, "I haven't seen my good friend."
"Nay, he has other commitments these days. You know he would be here, otherwise." She introduced me. "Harry, this is John Smith."
"Smith? Are you a blacksmith, perhaps?"
"Of course not! John is a friend of Barry's."
"I see... . Archer, Kendall and others I know; though I cannot recall all." He added, "I suppose you won't mind if I share a dance or two with the lady, Smith?"
"No, Sir." I don't even think he waited for my answer. She looked back, but I gestured to her it was fine... . I felt snubbed, but didn't want to spoil the evening for her.
And so, I was left to my own devices. I took interest in the conversation between a brown-haired gentleman in his forties, to a dark-haired, red-bearded gentleman in his thirties.
"Robert, my good man, I dare say the successful battle in Cadiz put Phillip II in dire straights. 'Twould not surprise me if he declares Spain a penniless country the following year... . Perhaps the Queen will favor us once more."
"I have the most cunning plan, Walter, that will not only ensure such favor, but will bring Spain to ruin once and for all. The Queen has asked me to plan another attack, this time, off the coast of the Azores. A victory may very well lead you right to El Dorado."
"I'll certainly ask the United Provinces for their participation, in addition to our preferred recruits."
"Harry has resented me for not bringing him along to Cadiz, despite having strict orders from the Queen. I've already promised him a place this time around."
Could it be? Robert Devereux and Sir Walter Raleigh?! I have heard of their ventures and considered them heroes. Wouldn't it be a wonderful opportunity to accompany such men?
"Pardon me, Sirs," I spoke up boldly, surprising even myself. I then addressed the younger man. "Are you the Earl of Essex?"
He looked at me, puzzled. "Indeed, I am. And who might you be?"
"John Smith. A fellow seaman who has previously sailed with Captain Newport, and fought alongside Captain Wingfield."
The Earl scratched his head. "Newport and Wingfield I have heard of; Smith I know not. What is it you ask?"
"Good Sirs, I'd be obliged to be of your assistance—"
"Assistance?! We seek assistance from skilled veterans." Raleigh scoffed.
"I am afraid we have no use for you," the Earl confirmed.
"I apologize, Sirs." Their responses left me deflated, but what should I expect, thinking I could be of use to such men?
"Perhaps I should go tell Wingfield. Even he'll have a good laugh." Raleigh went to and whispered something to a somewhat familiar redheaded male, who began looking around. He was here?! I shuddered to think he was possibly looking for me. I didn't wish to see him, and began trying to lose myself in the crowd.
After a while, Cate came looking for me. "I've looked all over this hall for you."
"I thought you were enjoying yourself."
"I was, mostly, until Raleigh made advances and Devereux asked for certain favors. Such men have no manners."
"Indeed." I already thought less of them.
I brought Cate to her door, and she surprised me by saying, "'Tis awfully cold tonight, John. You might as well come in and warm yourself by the fireplace." She didn't waste any time taking her shoes off as a maid took our cloaks. "I'll return shortly. Make yourself at home."
I was ushered into a sitting room in front of a fireplace, fruit, broth and bread, ready. I was wondering if I should have removed my shoes, but I wasn't intending to stay long.
I noted many trinkets from around the World. Initially, it bemused me to find Mayan gold jewlery and African ivory in an English sitting room...but I shortly thereafter found such worldly interests fascinating.
When she came back, I was surprised to discover her hair was loose, and she wore a chemise, or shift, without a dressing gown or robe. "Pardon my attire, but I prefer to be as comfortable as possible when I am at home. I hope this does not offend you."
"No, not at all." I was partially distracted by her silhouette as she passed by the fireplace to sit right by me. I couldn't understand why she refused Raleigh and Devereux, but would rather stay with me?
"Your doublet seems rather tight on you." She unfastened it for me. A part of me felt nervous at first, but a part of me enjoyed it. "There we are." She seemed somewhat satisfied, and inched closer.
There she was, in front of me. I kept thinking of what Kendall told me. I didn't want to ruin my chances. "Thank you," I smiled. Then I leaned forward and kissed her. I had a feeling that was what she wanted... .