Servants Series 2

by ss9

Continuation of BBC series Servants: The men return from Cumberland

3. Episode 3

Summer had crept up on them. It seemed barely weeks since the return from Cumberland in the Spring and yet here they were at the beginning of June, with summer's lazy golden sunshine pouring in through Taplows many windows. It was the sort of weather that encouraged a languishness in the soul, a condition that the butler mused seemed to affect his footmen disproportionately to the rest of the population. And yet despite this added burden Walter Corey couldn't remember a time when he had been more content or happier than he was at that very moment. Even the passing of another year could not dampen his spirits, he was in love, maddeningly, passionately in love and he was loved in return.

Leaning back in his chair Walter placed his pen back in the stand, closing his eyes to enjoy the feeling of the sun's warmth on his face. For another year he had managed to get away with it, he couldn't understand all the fuss people insisted on making over birthdays, they only served to remind you just how old you were getting, so it had always been his policy to change the subject whenever the conversation had arisen. So far this morning he had gotten away with only a quietly muttered Happy Birthday from Felix, although he had appreciated the subtle way the chef managed to serve his favourites for breakfast, even if he'd only managed to eat half due to the Earl's increasingly poor timing.

However his quiet reverie was interrupted when Mrs Ryan knocked on the door and entered with a tray, laden with a pot of tea, two cups and saucers and cake.

Smiling Walter stood and took the heavy tray from her setting it down on the desk before ushering a protesting Flora into his own seat before he took the one by the fire. "How did you find out?" He asked; convinced he had managed to hide the fact that it was his birthday from everyone, well except Felix, but then the chef had a knack of finding these things out.

Slightly taken aback by his line of questioning, Flora replied. "Simple observation, what with all the activity this morning, and you having to leave breakfast early to go attend the Earl, I knew that by now you must be starving, but knowing how stubborn you can be you'd prefer to sit here hungry than go and ask Cook for anything."

"Hmmm, not sure I like being so predictable." Jarvis replied, relieved that she was treating him because she thought he deserved it rather than because it was his birthday.

"Don't worry it takes years of study, I think your secrets are safe from most people, although not if Mr Adams has anything to do with it."

"Yes he really is most annoyingly persistent, I just wish there was some way of getting rid of him, but alas nothing has presented itself so far."

"Walter, I may just be being paranoid but…." Flora began, whilst pouring the tea.

"You called me Walter." Jarvis looked up in surprise, a bright sudden smile on his face, over the past few weeks he had asked and coaxed Flora endlessly in the use of his first name but like the proper housekeeper she was, she had found this change more difficult than anything else. Even on their snatched walks and talks she had almost unfailingly referred to him as Mr Jarvis despite her embarrassment and his insistence otherwise.

"Did I, well no one else is around, I guess it's just something I'm trying out, seeing how it sounds." She replied a slight flush gracing her cheeks as she handed him his tea.

"It sounds just fine to me." He said leaning back in his chair; "I don't suppose you… no never mind."

Intrigued Flora glanced over her tea cup their eyes meeting for a moment, "what?"

"It's just I've had this crick in my neck all morning and it isn't easing off…." He said glancing up at her a roguish smile playing about his lips. "And you do have the most amazing knack with…"

Smiling Flora stood and placed her hands on his shoulders and proceeded to work on his tension. "Is that better?"

"Hmmm much…" Walter sighed leaning back into her touch. This was exactly what a man wanted on his birthday some loving care and attention. "What was it?"

"What?"

Sighing as her talented fingers teased his muscles Walter added dreamily. "That you were being paranoid about?"

"Oh it's probably nothing, but it's just something Mr Adams said this morning, amongst the other load of nonsense….It's just, well its not the first time and well…It's just that he still has that letter, I know you talked to him but…"

"What has he being saying to you? Jarvis said quietly as he turned around. "Flora if he's been bothering you I want to know, I give you my word not to do anything that would jeopardize our positions."

"He's just too smug; he's up to something I just know it." Flora replied softly releasing Walter's shoulders and leaning against the side of his chair.

"Are you certain?" The butler asked, his previously light mood now darkening considerably as he watched his beloved's anguish. Reaching out he caught her hand gently, holding it out of sight of any nosy passersby, stroking the long fingers he had come to know and love.

Blushing slightly at the tender familiar gesture, Flora reluctantly shook her head. "No, it's just the way he acts, always hinting that he knows more than we think."

Sighing deeply as he brought her fingers to his lips kissing each one reverently. "I am afraid there will always be something, first the ring goes missing and Adams is still out for blood." Walter added slowly easing himself out of his chair and helping himself to the larger slice of lemon cake.

"Have you decided what you're going to do about the ring?"

Waiting for a moment before answering Walter took a bite of cake chewing it slowly as an idea began to form. "Yes, Yes I have." He replied a determined steely look entering his eyes as he gazed past her, his course of action now laid out before him. "I don't know why I didn't think of it before…" He trailed off suddenly setting down his cake.

"Walter?" Flora asked confused at the butler's sudden change of mood.

"Don't worry my dear." Walter replied distractedly turning and fixing a worried Flora with a reassuring smile. "I have a plan."

- - -

The Butler entered the servant's hall at lunchtime as if the devil himself was at his heels. Standing on the balony he stared down at the assembled rabble; all the lower-servants were sitting around eating their midday meal, happily laughing and chattering away. Coughing pointedly it wasn't long before they all jumped out of their seats the hubbub falling to an eerie silence.

"I won't keep you long; I know you're anxious to get back to consuming the delights that Cook has prepared for you." The butler barked a wry smile tugging at his lips. "However last week I noticed that a certain item of my property had gone missing. I know that I had it on my person however during the course of my day it obviously fell out of my pocket."

Pausing to let this news filter though Walter's gaze turned to scanning the most likely of suspects yet all he found were blank faces. "Now this ring is an antique family heirloom, it belonged… to my late wife and I would like it back." He added wincing slightly at the way his voice had wavered. "So I am asking you to keep your eyes open." With that bombshell and a last piercing glance he left the hall.

"Well Bugger me!" Will was the first to break the shocked silence that had descended. "He was married?"

"Bit of a dark horse our Mr Jarvis." Mr Adams retorted biting his lip to try and contain his own fury, the damned ring would be useless now…unless of course…well it could fetch a pretty penny. It was just as well it was his afternoon off. Besides the sooner he shifted it the better, now that everyone knew about it the chances of him being caught with it were far too high for his liking. Now decided he tuned back into the fever of gossiping that was gripping the lower servants.

"Amazing how no one knew?"

"Do you think Mrs Ryan knew?"

"Poor Mrs Ryan."

"She must have known."

"When did she die?"

"It must have been that funeral he went to the other week."

"Do you think?"

"Oh isn't that awful, poor Mr Jarvis."

Snorting in derision at some maid's comment Adams shook his head. Poor Mr Jarvis my foot, he had it made, a wife at home and the lovely Mrs Ryan at Taplows, the under-butler could only wonder at his secret? "That is quite enough, behave yourselves." He barked half-heartedly his appitite for his lunch now quite forgotten. Everything was going wrong, all his plans were coming to nothing, all his carefully gathered evidence on the butler was slipping away and as for dealing with Elizabeth...

Glancing across at his long lost daughter, Adams was surprised at the twinge of fatherly concern as he watched her daughter laugh at something that whelp William Forest muttered in her ear. No it would be better for all concers that she left sooner rather than later, better for him and better for her, hanging with a lad like Forest would only lead her into trouble. Perhaps it was time to try again, eying the assembled maids he wondered who would be the right next candidate... Frowning slightly as his eyes landed on Grace May, he had to suppress a smile, yes despite her recent unpopularity she would be the right person to approach.

He would wait until after lunch though. Now satisifed on a new course of action Adams glanced back down at his plate, suddenly the stew looked much more appealing than it had before. Stabbing at a stray piece of meat with his fork Adams chewed thoughtfully it wouldn't be long, before long he would be at the senior table, perhaps then he would be able to teach that cocky chef his place.

- - -

Meanwhile Flora was in her office writing a note for Walter, this was the third time she had written it, but each time it seemed to lack the right tone. She looked down at what she'd written this time, 2pm Orangery. Well it would have to do; now she just had to find him to give him the note.

Finally she found him, he was in the silver room checking that Mr Adams was looking after it properly, and giving Will a lecture on the proper way to clean silver. She knocked tentatively on the door, "Come in."

Will looked up in obvious interest, wanting to spot any sign that would confirm the rumours of their relationship. "Mr Jarvis I was wondering if I could borrow the cellar keys, I need some Brandy for Cook."

Smiling Jarvis reached into his pocket to draw out his keys, selecting the right one he held it out to her; she took it slipping him the note in exchange, leaving both a curious Jarvis and a disappointed William behind her.

- - -

Whistling to himself as he filled his pipe Mr Adams slowly made his way into the courtyard, his eyes narrowing slightly as he spotted his quary obliviously hanging up some washing "Good afternoon, Miss May." He muttered benieghly before reaching into the basket and handing Grace the next piece of washing.

"Afternoon, Mr Adams." Grace replied politely yet reservedly avoiding the underbutler's gaze instead squinting up to focus on a peg whilst adjusting a sheet:

Realising that little would be gained with small talk and besides it was his afternoon off he was wasting Adams muttered nastily. "It's ironic, you hanging out clean laundry, when someone like you is so dirty. Mind you don't contaminate it. Or you could say, the sheets are representative of what should be done with you. "He added walking closer, whispering. "Hung out to dry."

Shocked by the venomous tone Grace struggled to keep her voice even and to blink tears. "I don't need any help, thank you Mr Adams."

"Oh, it's not me saying those things, Miss May. I think you'll find it was a certain fellow maid of yours, gossiping about you to someone else I didn't quite hear."

Snorting in disbelief Grace chose not to reply, instead she snatched the remaining clothes from Adams' grasp and continued to hang up the washing albeit more frantically and clumsily.

Smirking at Grace's stubbornness Adams adopted a softer tone. "You should talk to Charlotte, lassie. Seems you're not the only one being talked about." He added cryptically before striding off bumping into Tom on the way. "Hey lad keep your eyes open for me, wouldn't want to miss anything whilst I'm away, if you know what I mean."

Smiling Thomas nodded. "Don't worry Mr Adams I'll keep an eye on them for you."

Content the underbutler walked off the next phase of his plan an apparent success yet he failed to spot the other footman, the one who had originally intended to talk to Grace but had stayed to overhear the under-butler's remarks.

- - -

Inside the house the other footmen were hard at work. Fred and Joseph, were carrying a large box down the corridor in the servants quarters. It was obviously extremely heavy as they staggered from one side to the other, groaning and complaining as they went.

"Er Keep your end up, will you!" Fred snapped a strained look on his youthful face.

Snorting sarcastically Joseph retorted sharply. "Mate, you know I love you, but I don't think of you in that respect."

"Eh you dirty bleeder." Fred muttered shaking his head before putting his side of the box down and leaning against the wall for a rest. Suddenly George rushed past, looking distant. "Oi, George, give us a hand will you? His Lordship's precious bleedin' gnomes weigh an absolute tonne!"

Shrugging George called back. "Sorry, Fred, ain't got time right now."

"Well that's for friendship."

"Yeah." Joe echoed adding testily. "Next time he needs help moving that grandfather clock he can forget it."

Yet George did indeed have a valid reason for his haste. Pushing open the door to the footman's room he caught sight of the very person he had been looking for powdering his wig. Storming across he grabbed the chalk powder from the first footman's grasp and slammed it down angrilly on the table.

"You alright, mate? Worried I've got the best looking wig?"

Ignoring Will's attempt at a joke George took the seat next to him. "Have you heard what your Lizzie has been saying?"

"No" Will muttered bored before suddenly adding defensivly. "And she's not 'my Lizzie'. We're not together."

Raising an eyebrow in disbelief George stared at the first footman like he had just grown another head. "Yeah, just like you and Esther weren't together."

Agitated by this line of questioning Wil stood up, taking his wig and placing it back on the stand. "We just get on, that's all... What's she been saying?"

"She's….been saying things. About Grace. And about others, it seems. I heard Adams talking to Grace. Sounds like she's been having a right go about the maids behind their backs."

Snorting in disbelief Will tried on his wig, looking in the mirror admiring his handsome reflection. "Probably just Adams stirring. What interest would he have in telling Grace gossip? She's a nice lass, Georgie, you should get to know her a bit more. Not in the Biblical sense, of course!"

Tilting his head thoughtfully George stood and came to stand behind Will in the mirror, catching his eye contact in the mirror he added bitterly. "Don't you think it's a bit strange, though, Adams slagging off his own daughter?"

Whirling round Will snatched the wig from his head before grabbing George by the lapels of his livery and pulling him closer. "Keep your bloody voice down! I won't let her tell him, not yet..." Will hissed watching as George smiled smugly as if the first footman's admission had confirmed George's suspicions. "Mate it's not like that, it's just, well I may be able to use it. Bit of blackmail, maybe?"

Shaking his head unsure which was more ludicrous Will thinking he could blackmail Adams or that he continued to deny his attraction to the new maid George backed out of the room, a servants bell ringing in the background. "You be careful, mate. She'll finish you if you let her."

- - -

Half an hour later Mr Jarvis was making his way to the Orangery, he was puzzled as to what Flora was up to, they'd both agreed to be careful about being discovered, so why was she now seemingly disregarding that. He was so lost in thought that he barely noticed Felix walking down the corridor, when he did he could hardly ignore the wide grin sported by the Chef. Who instead of stopping to explain simply nodded hello and called out to the stunned Jarvis, "do have a good afternoon." Jarvis paused was this some sort of conspiracy?

When he reached the Orangery the door was locked, slowly he knocked and a few moments later she opened the door, and practically dragged him inside. "Flora what is going on?"

"Simple Happy Birthday." She said throwing her arms around his neck and pulling him in for a kiss.

A few moments later, when he'd gotten over the surprise she led him further into the room laid out on the floor was a picnic.

"How did you…..?"

"What find out or pull this off?"

"Both."

"Simple the answer to both is with the help of a very good friend."

"Felix!" Jarvis growled, but somehow as he surveyed both the delicious spread and the breathtaking creature on his arm, he couldn't find it in his heart to be angry.

She smiled, he'd guessed right, "And before you start to worry about being caught, let me remind you, Mr Adams is on his half day, the Earl is out riding with Gwen and Felix has promised to keep the staff as busy as possible, so it can be just the two of us."

"Just the two of us, hmmm alone, all afternoon." He said sliding his arms around her waist from behind and nuzzling her neck "Sounds perfect." He whispered into her ear reaching up to free her hair, running his fingers through the freed tresses.

Slowly Flora turned round to face him, gazing into his eyes she traced the outlines of his face with her fingertips, his forehead, ears, cheeks, chin and lastly lips. Then leaning forward to kiss him she whispered softly "yes".

Breaking the kiss softly Walter threaded his fingers into Flora's coaxing her into sitting beside him on the blanket. Reaching for the bottle of champagne that appeared as if by magic from the Earls celler he popped the cork with expert precision, pouring one glass for them to share. "To us my dear." He toasted sincerely offering it first to her and then taking a deep sip himself. "Now where were we?" He asked teasingly before closing in for another champagne tinged kiss, unable to quell the thought that this would probably be his best birthday ever.

"Walter?" Flora asked after a few minutes.

"Yes love?" Jarvis replied.

"Why didn't you tell me it was your birthday?" She asked softly.

"I just…I haven't looked forward to them for years, once something happened that put me off wanting to celebrate them forever."

Then as if sensing her question he added. "My brother died, it was an accident, but we had been returning from celebrating my birthday in town, who knows if he hadn't drunk so much then perhaps he wouldn't have fallen off the bridge, and if I hadn't either then perhaps….perhaps I could have saved him?"

"I'm sorry, I didn't realise…if I had of I wouldn't have made such a fuss, I mean when you first walked in this must have been the last thing you'd have wanted, and I was so wrapped up in my own plans I didn't even stop to think why!... I'm sorry."

"No don't you dare apologise!" Walter retorted sharply. "You've given me the best present I could ever have imagined an afternoon of leisure and the pleasure of your company what more could a man ask for?" He added causing Flora to blush furiously. "You've managed to remove the stigma of today, from now on to counter the bad I'll always have the memory of this afternoon to sweeten my thoughts!...Thank you!"

"You're welcome!" Flora replied leaning forward to kiss him softly, before pulling away slightly, immediately puzzled by the mischievous expression that had appeared on his face.

"What?" She asked somewhat nervously.

"All afternoon?" Jarvis countered, and her expression turned to one of comprehension so she nodded her reply.

"Well then we'd better make the most of it!" He added rolling her back over, and capturing her lips once more.

- - -

Unlike his superiors Andrew Adams had not had a good afternoon, and it had started out so promising. When he arrived in town he had done a spot of shopping, he'd even managed to find some ye old itching powder, a nice little present for that annoying Chef, he thought laughing manically. Then he decided to visit the local tavern and indulge in a pint or two, whilst waiting for his fence to turn up. That was when things started to go wrong; he'd spotted a pretty lassie of disreputable virtue and invited her to join him.

Big mistake before long he was very drunk, the little minx must have been spiking his drinks. So when she suggested he accompany her back to her lodgings he'd agreed, he was only out of the pub five minutes when he was dragged into an ally. Luckily, he supposed, he had been so drunk he hadn't been seen as much of a threat, and so he'd only gotten a split lip instead of a slit throat, but they'd gotten his money and more importantly the ring.

What was worse as he'd passed out, and it was past nine when he woke up, meaning he had to run all the way back to Taplow's in order to be back before the doors were locked at ten. Pausing at the top of the hill, he heard the church bells peeling ten, damn, if Jarvis caught him it would mean a dock in wages, just what he needed. Someone was going to be made to pay for this.

Adams arrived back at approximately 9.58, dashing into the servants hall. The lower servants were sitting round gossiping as normal, but all stopped and turned as he entered, silence descending. Charlotte and Grace tried to stifle their laughter, but Susan jumped up, concerned

"Oh Mr Adams what happened to you?"

Adams cut, red faced, panting and annoyed. "Don't fuss, girl!" He muttered shaking off her hands from his arm, and she stepped back bemused.

Not one to miss an opportunity to needle the underbutler Will slid off from sitting on the table and stalked up to him. "Mr Jarvis is on the warpath after you. I'd keep out his way for the rest of the night if I were you." Will then turned to everyone, throwing his arms open. "Although I'm sure we'd all love to hear why you look like you've been in the wars, Mr Adams!"

Snorting Adams scanned the room sneering at the staring faces, dabbing his cut lip, and ignoring Will before marching out of the hall. He planned on heading towards his quarters, but his legs refused to cooperate, still so drunk he staggered into the wall, banging his head and falling over unconscious. What seems like seconds later, he come around. Still on the floor, he looked up, blinking, to see a disgusted Mr Jarvis leaning over him, and a silently laughing Will and a smug George all staring down at him.

"Mr Adams, it seems we need to talk, don't you think?" The butler muttered his every word dripping in irony.

Pushing aside any assistance Adams struggled to his feet, standing then swaying slightly. "Sir!"

Sighing the butler muttered. "Everyone back to their business please. Mr Adams, come with me – if you can, that is!" He added stalking off down the corridor, his subordinate stumbling after him.

Closing the door behind them the butler turned and fixed Adams with a expectant stare. "What on earth have you been doing, Mr Adams!"

Leaning against a chair Adams slurred. "I can explain, sir…"

"No doubt you can, but I'm not sure if it is an explanation I want to hear! You were expected back hours ago – there was nobody to supervise the lower servants' evening meal for a start"! Walking right up to Adams. "And why are you so drunk? No wonder you ended up looking like a vagabond!"

"Mr Jarvis, I….."Shaking his head the butler stalked the room before coming to stand barelyinches from his swaying under-butler. "Do you know what sort of damage you could do to the reputation of this household if you had been caught making a public nuisance of yourself!

"Yes, I'm sorry." Adams muttered before slowly realising that he has begun to itch – everywhere. Then he remembered the itching powder! It must have come loose in his pocket, he realised, and now it seemed to have gotten everywhere! The only odd thing Adams managed to notice in his drunken and beaten state is that Mr Jarvis smells remarkably like women's perfume. Mrs Ryan's perfume to be exact. Interesting.

Sighing in disgust the butler shook his head. "You're in no fit state to talk tonight – see me first thing in the morning, Mr Adams, and do NOT be late this time! Honestly why I employed you in the first place now escapes me!"

That was the last straw for the underbutler, knowing that Jarvis was far from the perfect servants he portrayed. "You! I know what you're up to! Where do you want to me to find you in the morning, SIR! Your room or Mrs Ryan's!"

"Mr Adams, you don't know what you're saying..."

Ignoring the butler's low dangerous tone Adams continued in regardless, it was as though the floodgates had broken and all his anger and resentment came flooding out. "And I know all about the money – you've been on the take for years! I know too much, Mr Jarvis, you can't sack me, as you'll know I'll talk!"

Suddenly furious Jarvis swung his arm back, but before he could give Adams the second taste of his own thuggish medicine that day, Adams slipped to the floor. Shaking his head in disgust the butler called for George and Will to carry him back to his room. They heaved him up by his arms and dragged him out of the office.

"If he goes to puke I'm getting out the way, you can deal with the mess!"

Pulling a face at Will's suggestion, George suggested they drag him up the stairs. "Who d'you think did this to him?"

"I've no idea, but good on him, whoever the fella is!" Will retorted as the underbutler groaned and tried to scratch himself.

Finally they manage to get him to his room, flopping him onto his bed. Will begans to snigger, tugging on George's arm. "I know, let's strip him and tie him to the bed, so he's late for Jarvis tomorrow! He'll be SO sacked!"

Laughing George agreed and they begin to roughly undress the unconscious under-butler.

- - -

Meanwhile further down the corridor the butler retired to his own room. Pushing open the door he was bother surprised and delighted to find Flora waiting for him. "What are you doing here...Darling if you're caught?"

Waving aside his concern the housekeeper closed the distance between them in a heartbeat pulling him into a tight embrace. "I heard what happened...He threatened you."

Sighing Walter tightened the embrace. Kissing the nape of her neck he tried to think of something soothing, he could lie, what use would it be to worry her as well. Yet he couldn't bring himself to say the words. "He knows. Everything. Or at least he suspects. Even about the money."

Gasping Flora tensed in his arms. "I thought as much. Arrogant fool. Walter you will have to sack him for his behaviour today, you've got no choice."

"How can I?" Walter muttered releasing her reluctantly as he began to pace the room, stopping by the window. "He said he will talk to the Earl, so I'm completely at a loss."

Crossing the room Flora took him gently by the hand, placing it on her cheek and feeling his warmth on her face, unable to know what to say or do to make it better.

"Today was so perfect, Flora. Just you and me together. I felt like part of a real couple and now someone is trying to tear us apart. He won't be happy until he destroys everything we have."

"We ARE a couple, and nothing Andrew Adams can say will ever change that, I would walk through hell for you, you must understand..." She broke offwanting to talk about their future, maybe leaving the house they had loved for so long, but she felt now wasn't the time. The picnic had been lovely, just wonderful, a taste of a life they could have away from here but Walter wasn't ready, to leave now would feel like defeat to him, no it would have to be on his terms not Andrew Adams's. " We'll talk about Adams, but in a little while." Pushing off his jacket, she pulled him closer to her. "You should rest Walter, you're exhasted."

Silently, kissing her neck, he agreed. "Would you..." Walter began before breaking off embarressed.

"Would I what?" Flora asked hesitantly, unsure just whether she was ready to grant the request she suspected was coming.

"Would you sit with me till I fall asleep...Read to me perhaps or just stay close?"

Smiling brightly Flora nodded, blushing slightly as the butler quickly shrugged off his waistcoat and shirt. "Should I..."

"NO." Walter insisted reaching for his night shirt and slipping it over his head before kicking off his trousers. Pulling back the covers he settled in his bed and Flora indulgently tucked him in before perching on the edge of the bed. "Make yourself comfortable woman you're making me nervous."

"You nervous?" Flora replied with a giggle before relenting and relaxing against the pillow her forehead fitting neatly into the curve of Walter's neck as his arms swooped pocessively around her waist. It wasn't long before Walter's breathing slowed and hypnotically Flora felt her own eyes begin to close, she felt so content and safe, it seemed such a shame to move, besides what harm could there be in a little nap?

- - -

However had the housekeeper realised just what had happened outside of the butler's room not ten minutes before she might have found sleep more elusive. Will and George, darted out of Adams' room, unable to contain their laughter. They had discovered the itching powder and found it hysterical that Adams, tied to his bed, was unable to scratch himself.

Will tears streaming down his face as he doubled up in the corridor finally managed to mutter. "And if he calls out, if anyone hears and comes to his aid they'll find him completely starkers!"

Nodding George followed the first footman down the staff corridor surprised when Will suddenly stopped dead, his laughter gone as something else caught his attention.

"Will?"

"Shhhh! Listen!"

Frowning in confusion George mouthed 'what?' Surprised when Will indicated frantically at the door and as both footmen listened against it they could hear a voice a female voice, the voice that belonged to the housekeeper. Gradually Will's jaw begins to drop and George's eyes widened.

George a grin spreading across his face. "You ARE joking! It's not…"

Will screwing up his face retorted. "It is, mate! This is so funny – first Adams and now this!" He added clapping his hands together in malicous glee heading quickly back to the lower servants quarters, anxious to spread this new salacious gossip.

- - -

Early the next morning Flora woke disorientated, she was sure she didn't usually have a picture on that wall, did she? However she soon realised where she was when Walter turned over, one arm snaking round her waist pinning her against him, his soft snore now reverberating against her ear. Slowly she turned over studying him as he slept, free of the cares and worries of day-to-day life at Taplows. After a moment or two of this intense scrutiny as if sensing her gaze he slowly woke, yawning slightly he rubbed his eyes as if she was a remnant of his dream and couldn't possibly be real.

"Good Morning" she whispered to him.

"Good Morning back" he said smiling and pulling her closer. "Now what are you doing here?"

"I guess I fell asleep." Slowly Flora stretched wincing after a night spent sleeping in her corset, "don't suppose you have any idea what time it is?"

Jarvis leant across her reaching down for his watch, which was still in his waistcoat pocket, "a little after 5.30am."

"Hmmm 5.30, so I have exactly an hour and a half before I usually get up, however I have to make it to my room before then and change so I'd say I have an hour before I need to get up."

"An hour, what can we possibly find to amuse ourselves?" Jarvis replied, rolling her on top of him and threading his fingers into her hair enjoying the first of what they both hoped would be many morning kisses.

- - -

Meanwhile down the hall, Mr Adams was also awake. He had spent the last half an hour trying to loosen the socks that had been used to tie him to his bed frame. So far he had been unsuccessful, which had only heightened his bad mood. When he woke at 5am he had tried to get up and get a glass of water, his mouth tasted like the worst of Glasgow's sewers, and then visit the little boys room. However as was tied to the bed he was unable to do either, things were getting worse now he was desperate, and since whoever the jokers were had tied him to his bed with his own dirty socks the taste in his mouth was now if possible even worse. So instead he had spent the time focusing on what he was going to do to the practical jokers when he found them, it had to be Will and probably one of the others George or Fred. Never mind he was sure Thomas would know and then he could slowly torture them, that thought brought a smile to his face, of course that's if he can ever get free.

Downstairs it was breakfast time in the servants hall and everyone save the underbutler was sat around the large table digging into their breakfast, or in the case of Will and George sniggering into their eggs.

Finally unable to contain her curiosity Grace turned and fixed the two footmen with her most piercing gaze. "What's wrong with you two this morning?"

"Nothing." Will replied but after one glance at George they both began to laugh harder, shaking their heads.

However it was clear from the disbelieving looks of their fellows that no one believed that for one minute. Finally it was Susan who unable to contain her curiosity who struck the right cord. "I bet you did something absolutely awful to poor Mr Adams last night! Oh, he was in such a state!"

Biting into his toast Will stifled a giggle before replying pompously. "We did nothing to him, I think he had already done enough to himself yesterday. We just put him to bed like Mr Jarvis asked. He's probably got one hell of a hangover – sick as a dog this morning, I'll bet!"

However no one had the opportunity to question the footman further as in walked a stern looking Mrs Ryan. "Has anyone seen Mr Adams this morning?" She asked scanning the staff for any guilty expressions, not surprised when most people looked at her blankly and shook their heads, all except George and Will. George had managed to stifle his laughter, trying his best not to make eye contact with Will, but Will had to hang his head, covering his mouth but still unable to stop himself shaking uncontrollably. "What are you finding so amusing, Mr Forest! I trust you don't know of Mr Adams' whereabouts either! "

Schooling his most innocent expression Will looked up, flicking hair out of his eyes. "No, Mrs Ryan." He replied causing the housekeeper to frown. Such might have been the end of the matter but a moment later a fuming Mr Jarvis appeared on the balcony. "Mr Adams?"

"No sign of him Mr Jarvis." Mrs Ryan replied, unable to prevent a warm smile tugging at her lips when she caught the butler's eye.

This seemed to send the footmen into contortions as they glanced back and forth between the two senior staff members, unable to resist mimicking the love struck looks and with adding Will a rather more coarse gesture

"It seems Mr Adams is missing this morning, Mr Jarvis. And Mr Forest and Mr Cosmo here are finding it very amusing."

"It's not just that, Mrs Ryan!"

"Oh, so you admit you find it funny?" The housekeeper retorted angrilly.

Sighing the butler shook his head. "I'll go and find him. This is getting beyond a joke."

Nodding the housekeeper followed his lead, quickly leaving the servants hall and heading up the stairs, surprised and delighted when she found Walter standing on the landing waiting for her. Side by side they walked down the hall their shoulders casually brushing against each other. "Do you want me to be there when you talk to him?"

"Best not, especially if he gets into one of his rages." Walter replied softly checking over his shoulder to make sure nobody was there before slipping his arms round her waist pulling her firmly against him and kissing her passionately. Finally breaking the kiss and releasing her reluctantly, he grabbed a quick squeeze of her bottom, which caused the housekeeper to blush bright pink and swipe at his wandering hands, her pretence at outrage only undermined by the saucy grin that tugged at her lips. Kissing him quickly on the cheek she turned and with a lascivious look back over her shoulder headed back towards to the lower servants' hall to watch over the staff in Adams' absence. Leaving the butler to make the rest of the way to the underbutler's room alone. Pausing outside as he worked out how angry to sound, he knocked loudly.

"Mr Adams, are you in there!"

There was a muffled response that sounded something like 'yes, but don't come in!'. However the butler wasn't in the mood for being messed around in this way and so pushed the door open wide, then looked on in horror. "By hell"! He gasped looking on as Adams writhed in distress. "I think someone has to do some explaining here!" However the more he thought about it the harder it was not to laugh, but fortunately many years of training himself to be restrained when confronted with potentially amusing situations was clearly paying off. Taking pity, he began to untie his under-butler.

Sighing in relief Adams rubbed his wrists. "I'm desperate for a slash!"

Screwing up face in disgust the butler turned away as soon as he could. "Thank you Mr Adams, a bit too much information there. And PLEASE cover yourself up. Even better, get washed, dressed, and see me in my office in 20 minutes sharp! You've missed breakfast."

"Do you have any idea who played this wicked trick on me?"

Stifling a smirk the butler knew full well who the culprits were, but secretly he couldn't help thinking Adams got exactly what he deserved after last night. "I have no idea, Mr Adams, but naturally I will conduct a full investigation."

And with that he turned and left, closing the door behind him. That image of Adams was one that would stay with him for a very, very long time, he concluded.

- - -

However had the butler been aware of the gossiping that was going on the scullery then he his good mood would have evaporated just as quickly.

"Ere, never guess what me and George heard last night!"

"Oh Will you're such a gossip. A big girl, that's what you are. All you footmen are the same." Maggie scolded and flirted all at the same time, as she shooed her girls away to be about their chores.

"Fine, then, I won't tell you. It's a big-un though! Realising his pun he begins to laugh."

"Well, come on, then, spit it out!"

However at that the footmanl began to laugh even harder. Finally he was able to contain his laughter long enough to spill the gossip. "Well, last night when me and George put Adams to bed, we walked past Jarvis' room, and heard a noise."

"And?"

"It was only him and his bit of stuff!"

"You're jokin' you heard them?"

"Well we heard enough, they sounded pretty cosy, I mean we weren't going to hang around all night but why else would she have been in his room?" Will retorted waggling his eyebrows suggestively until Maggie snorted in amusement.

"I knew it!" Maggie explained her eyes narrowing in smug pleasure.

"Who's his bit of stuff?" One of the girls asked innocently causing both Will and Maggie to glare at her until she scuttled away.

"Well I just thought you'd want to know." Will added watching as Maggie nodded her thanks.

"Oh you're right there William." Maggie replied a thoughtful look on her lined face. "And I think I know a few other people who will too."

- - -

Finally after waiting in his office for half an hour Mr Adams finally arrived, dressed and shaved. "Mr Adams."

"Mr Jarvis."

"So have you found which of those nasty little brutes did that to me?"

"No, not yet however if you hadn't been drunk out of your mind then it wouldn't have been necessary for anyone to put you to bed. Such conduct is absolutely unacceptable for one of my staff."

"Like you can talk, what with the all the carrying on you've been up to, first fiddling with the wages and then the housekeeper, you're hardly a paragon of virtue."

Jarvis's stalked towards him his face like thunder, "that is enough I've put up with your insinuations and insubordination long enough Mr Adams, you really think that you have enough evidence to go to the Earl with these accusations then go ahead, just be prepared for your own conduct at Taplows to be exposed. If you try to take me down I'll take you with me, then we will both be ruined, is that what you want? Do you think the Earl will thank you for this hornet's nest you've unearthed; you'll be sacked as well and without a character."

Adams was silently furious; he knew what Jarvis was saying was true, all he had to go on was his word that something was amiss, and that was not enough to unseat someone as well entrenched as Mr Jarvis. Besides he had other more pressing concerns, dealing with Lizzie and Will for one, he had to have that business all sewn up before he could take on Jarvis. He'd find a new way to bring Jarvis down, but for the moment it was safer if he thought he had given up.

"Alright, a truce?"

"Agreed."

Mr Adams turned to leave but before he could open the door Jarvis spoke again. "One more thing Mr Adams, I expect this agreement to extend to your treatment of Mrs Ryan, you will extend to her the curtsey and respect due to her position." Jarvis then walked toward him and for once Andrew Adams stepped back in fear, the expression on Jarvis's face was almost murderous. "For if I hear one whisper of your filth believe me leaving this house without a character will be the least of your worries. Do we understand each other?"

Mr Adams gasped, "Yes sir." Then he quickly turned and left, he would have never thought it possible that Jarvis could intimidate him.

- - -

By afternoon the gossip had spread right around the staff, Will gleefully telling everyone about what he and George heard. Each time he told the story the truth becomes more elaborately stretched than the time before as he enjoyed being the centre of attention. As animated as ever, he 'performed' his now perfected act to a captive audience of a group of kitchen maids, and a few sculleries. Unfortunately he failed to see Adams standing behind him, listening and, remembering Jarvis' threats, trying to replace his smug grin with a look of distain for Will's hearsay.

"It was so loud, I'm surprised his Lordship couldn't hear them! putting on high-pitched Irish accent: Oh, Walter, you're such a big man! Take me! he then changes his voice to sound extra-manly: Good God Flora where did you learn to do that?"

Laughing Lizzie simply dismissed him with a wave of the hand. "I don't believe you Will, they never said that!"

Will tutted nodding his head vigorously. "You, my dear, weren't there! I'm sure George will back every word I've just said!"

Raising an eyebrow Lizzie retorted. "I thought he said they were only talking?" A rational comment that Will brushed aside and the other servants seemed quick to dismiss in favour of a more juicy story.

"Next you'll be saying you heard the headboard banging against the wall!"

"Well now you come to mention it…"

Realising that was probably his cue to intervene Mr Adams stepped forward. "Mr Forest!" He hissed firmly clapping a hand on Will's shoulder. "Do you not have work to do? Idle chit-chat and rumour should be kept to yourself if you know what's good for you, laddie."

Snorting in derision Will picked up a parcel he should have taken to the Earl hours ago. "Look, I know what I heard, right…"

Frowning Adams pulled Will aside, worried that Mr Jarvis might think it was him putting ideas into Will's head. " I'm sure you do, but let me give you a bit of friendly advice son, if Mr Jarvis catches you talking I wouldn't want to be in your neatly polished boots. So don't let me hear another word, or I may have to shut you up myself."

"Look, MR ADAMS, I know more about you than you think. We've all got secrets we'd rather remained hidden, now don't we?"

"And what do you mean by THAT?"

Smiling smugly the footman prized off Adams's fingers. "Oh, you'll know soon enough I'm sure. One way or another."

"You're on very thin ice again laddie…" Adams began but feeling inquisitive eyes on him he broke off thinking better of it, huffing angrily he turned on his heel and stormed off.

- - -

Glancing up from her paperwork Flora Ryan had to stifle a smile. "Don't you have somewhere else to be?"

Lounging in the fireside chair the butler stretched and returned her gaze. "No."

"What no footman to be yelling at, no Mr Adams to be keeping an eye on, no Earl to tend to?"

Shaking his head he slumped further into the chair before stretching up and slipping his arms behind his head.

Tutting Flora returned to her figures but still she found it difficult to concentrate she just couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. "Perhaps his lordship should threaten to ship you off to London since you seem to have so much free time on your hands? I might suggest it to him the next time we are summoned."

"You would never be so cruel?"

"I might." Flora deadpanned glancing up from her work and meeting Walter's eye. "Or of course I could go myself?"

"And break a man's heart?"

"It's a risk I might be prepared to take. Depends on whether you're going to let me get back to work?"

Pouting adorably Walter reluctantly got to his feet before leaning down over her, placing his hands on the desktop he leant down till he was almost touching her. Then quick as lightening he placed a chaste kiss on her forehead. "No London Flora!"

"Yes Mr Jarvis sir!" Flora answered timidly matching Walter's roguish smile with a teasing one of her own.

- - -

Meanwhile on the outskirts of the estate, Thomas was looking about furtively. Where the hell was he, the note said noon. Suddenly a disheveled man slid out of the cover of a tree and grabbed Thomas from behind.

"Tommy me boy, so glad you could make it. I must admit you had me worried, what with you not responding to my other little notes, I was starting to think you'd let me down."

Thomas had broken out into a cold sweat, "No Sid, me let you down, I'd never."

Sid smiled his gold tooth sparkling in the sunlight, "Good, because I'd hate to have to remind you where your loyalties lie." He said patting Thomas on the head.

"So Tommy boy spill, what's the catch?"

"Oh it's a beaut Sid, silver, antiques even some jewelry, it'll be your biggest job yet."

"We'll see about that, now you've got the keys?"

"No, not yet."

This earned him a clip round the ear from Sid that sent him reeling. "I tell you to do one thing, one simple thing and you can't even do that."

Thomas cowering like a child on the floor covers his head with his hands, "Please Sid it's not my fault, it's the Butler, Mr Jarvis he keeps his keys on him all the time."

"Well that means your going to have to let us in tonight, just be there on time."

"Ok, 2.30am."

"That's right." Said Sid sliding back into the undergrowth, "And remember lad we'll be watching.

- - -

Later that day, back at the house the lower servants were sitting down to dinner. However the staff seemed to be more interested in the latest gossip than Mr Pritchard's stew. There was only so much Mr Adams could do, he realised to his dismay that the gossip had spread too quickly for him to control, but he certainly wasn't going to take the flack for it THIS time. There was also much talk about the Earl and his fascination with young Gwendolyn, although she was so rarely seen in the lower servants' company.

So preoccupied with their gossiping that they didn't notice the silent shadowy figure of the housekeeper as she stepped out onto the balcony, gasping in shock and horror as she caught the bent of their conversation.

Sniggering into her stew Susan added her own contribution. "'ere, d'you think we need to do our own white line? We could paint it nice and thick down the centre of the upper servants' dining table."

"Even better, down the centre of Mr Jarvis' bed!" Fred retorted earning him a shocked glare from Charlotte and a clip round the ear from Mr Adams.

"Mind your tongues!" Adams snapped but even his chastisement could only keep them quite for a while.

Lowering her voice and looking up and down the table Susan muttered. "D'you think he's….you know….any good?"

"Why Susie are you offering to find out?" Fred asked.

"We can just ask Mrs Ryan!" Will cut in winking at Lizzie who blushed at the first footman's attention.

"Yeah, I dare you!" Susan retorted sarcastically flipping her hair.

"Anyway, Susan, we all know who YOU like, and it isn't Jarvis." Will goaded, watching as the maid flushed and shot him an evil look.

Susan In low but emphatic whisper managing to resist a glance at Adams. "Keep your mouth shut, William Forest!"

Smacking his hand down on the table Adams got to his feet. "That's enough! You will hold your tongues or I'll do it for you!"

Turning in his seat Will fixed Adams with a peircing gaze. "Since when did you care what or WHO we gossip about?"

Unable to answer that without revealing too much the under-butler hissed. "Just shut up and eat your stew – all of you!"

However the lady in the shadows had heard enough. Turning she made her way blindly down the corridor her feet taking her automatically to the butler's parlor. Her sudden entrance surprised the butler who was sat at his desk smoking a cigar and scribbling away in his big book. "Flora, what is it?" Walter gasped getting up from his seat. "Dearest what's happened?"

"Oh Walter they're all talking about us – all of them! They know about last night...Or more to the point they're making up their own sordid story."

"What...How?" Walter blustered his handsome face creasing in confusion as he crossed the room.

"I don't know, but however they know they're certainly talking about it. It all fits now – people have been sniggering all day! And when I heard what they were implying that we...That I..." She broke off unable to continue or meet Walter's curious gaze. "Well you know how their minds work, the idea that I was in your room and we didn't...That I was just there to sleep as it were." Flora added catching Walter's soft ahhh of understanding.

Tugging on his waistcoat as he tried to remain detached and professional about it Walter concentrated first on who and then perhaps they could deal with the what. "Well it can't have been Adams this time – he was, er, tied up last night."

"Does it really matter who, it's too damn late now, those lies are all over the house. People have been looking at me funny all day, and I had to snap at most of my girls they were so uncharacteristically lippy and disrespectful. Well now we know why. How am I going to be able to face them?"

"Calm down." Walter began soothingly reaching out to catch her hand but Flora pulled away at his touch. "Flora...It will all blow over soon I assure you there is no reason to..."

"No reason! No reason!" Flora shrieked. "Perhaps not for you...No of course not for you...but for me..." She broke off unable to continue. "I can't do this, not now, not for a long time! It's wrong! I don't know how we ever thought this could work in a place like this! Your wife hasn't even been dead two months, we should have waited, it isn't proper and we're being punished for it. Perhaps it would be better if I went away for a while, accepted the Earl's offer?"

"NO!" Walter snapped grasping her elbow and dragging her round to face him. "We are not going to solve this by running away from the problem."

Shaking her head in disbelief Flora retorted sharply. "This isn't a problem we can solve. No matter what we say or do or how we act people are always going to believe what they want to, and what they want I to believe is that for god knows how long I've been your...your mistress."

"Flora just give me one more chance, give me a chance to make it right..."

Breaking away from him Flora shook her head sadly. "You can't make it right Walter. No one can."

- - -

Later that night at the designated time Thomas slipped out of the footman's bedroom, along the third floor corridor, down the stairs and along to the window that opened onto the courtyard. He unlocked the casement and popped his head through the window, "Sid?" He whispered, hopeful that something else had prevented him from getting here on time. Unfortunately Sid slipped out of the shadows accompanied by four others, and they quickly heaved themselves through the open window.

"Sorry to startle you Tommy boy." Then noticing Tom glance at his companions warily he added, "As you said its such a good job I brought a few old friends I owed favours with me just to be safe. Might need some back up."

As he said this one of his friends pulled out a pistol he had tucked into his belt and threw it to Tom. "Here lad you may need this if we get into trouble, can't have no one recognise us." He said adjusting his bandana so it effectively hid his face.

"Lead the way Tommy boy." Said Sid poking a stunned Tom in the ribs, "don't let me down now and loose your head remember you've too many people depending on you."

Tom turned and led the way to the silver room, halfway there one of Sid's companions stopped and leant against the wall, indicating that the others should do the same. One of the night watchmen was on walkabout, so Sid's friend slipped around the corner and knocked him out with a single silent blow to the back of the head, then dragged him out of the corridor and into Jarvis's office.

- - -

"Flora?" The butler's whisper echoed down the corridor as he stood precariously exposed lurking outside the housekeeper's bedroom. "Flora please we need to talk about this..." He added nervously shifting from foot to foot as still there was no response but silence. "If you love me let me in…"

"It isn't locked." Was the soft reply and Walter hastily pushed the door open and stepped inside, the gloom surprised him as there was naught save a single candle lit even the fire had burned low. At first he couldn't make out where Flora was but the sudden shift from the bed startled him and he almost dropped the pink rose he had been carrying.

"I'm sorry I didn't realize you were asleep."

"I wasn't." Was Flora's exhausted reply. "I was trying but I just couldn't get all those sniggers and comments out of my head."

Nodding Walter stepped closer, before hesitantly sitting down on the edge of the bed, noticing even in the dim light the slight puffiness of her eyes and the flushed cheeks. "You've been crying…I made you cry, again!" Walter hissed angry at himself, clenching his fists until Flora placed her own hands on top.

"No, they made me cry, it wasn't your fault I took it out on you when I shouldn't have and I'm sorry for that Walter."

"But Darling…"

"No buts Walter." Flora retorted and for a moment a ghost of a smile pulled at her lips. "You're as much a victim in this maliciousness as I and I shouldn't have taken out my anger on you; forgive me?"

"Always." Walter replied immediately reaching up and brushing her cheek pleasantly surprised when Flora turned and leant into his touch pressing kisses into his palm.

"Hold me?" Flora whispered and immediately Walter wrapped his arms around her, sighing contentedly as she nuzzled into the crook of his neck her arms wrapping around him just as tightly. Teasing her long curls between his fingers Walter smothered a laugh when Flora repeated the gesture her delicate long fingers creeping up round his neck to toy with the hair that hung over his collar.

"I have something for you." Walter murmured his hand searching the blanket for the abandoned rose, it was a much needed distraction as he was finding there was a great deal of difference between holding Flora during the day and now. "Here." He added producing the rose and bringing it up to trace gently along her jaw, then across her lips, before following the dip of her elegant neck. However even this playful gesture seemed fraught with hidden complications as Flora's breath caught in her throat and she squirmed most delightfully in his arms. "I should be…" Walter began but Flora pressed a finger to his lips silencing him.

Leaning up Flora caught Walter's lips, coaxing a kiss from him as he tried resolutely to maintain his control, she was just so warm and soft, and through the thin nightgown he could feel everything…

Pushing her gently away Walter fought to catch his breath. "I really should be leaving."

"Stay."

"You wouldn't be safe…"

Smiling at his continued concern for her honor and wellbeing Flora covered Walter's hand which had prudishly been locked round her waist and moved it slowly up her body. "Hmm Hope not." She muttered softly before catching an astonished Walter Corey's lips for another kiss.

- - -

Downstairs the intruders headed off to the silver room, where one of Sid's other friends started to pick the lock, within a few minutes they were in and started to sort through and pack up the silver. They were just finishing up when a shocked gasp made them turn around; it was Grace who stood shocked still in the doorway, and then she screamed. One of the men raised his pistol to fire but Tom forced his arm down, "no", then ran forward and grabbed Grace placing his hand over her mouth, silencing her.

However Grace's scream had been clear and loud and had successfully woken most of the staff. The Lads dashed out of their room, all pulling on their trousers and running towards the girls room, assuming that was where the scream had come from. Halfway there they had been joined by Mr Jarvis and Mrs Ryan, who interestingly enough Will noted had both come out of her room. Flinging open the door they saw the rest of the girls sitting up, rubbing their eyes and looking around. It was George who noticed first, his eyes had automatically sought her out first, "It's Grace, she not here."

Downstairs the burglars were trying to make a quick escape but they were being severely hampered by Grace, who was kicking and hitting out at them. "We should just kill her." Said Sid's friend, the same one who had given Tom the pistol.

"No, we can't… Why can't we just let her go?" Said Tom desperate, Grace squirming in terror against him.

Sid slapped him, "don't be such an idiot boy, she knows you're involved, and through you they can get to me."

"That's all you really care about isn't it, not me nor my mum, it's always about saving your stinking hide, well I won't let you hurt her." Said Tom letting Grace go and throwing his weight against Sid to distract him long enough for Grace to get away.

Grace dashed down the corridor as the shot rang out, but she didn't turn back, instead she got to the stairs and ran into the descending group of staff, George pushed past the rest and took her into his arms.
Mr Jarvis moved to stand close the pair, "Grace what is it?"

For moment s Grace was unable to speak, "it was burglars sir, five of them and Tom!"

"What they've got him to?" Said Jarvis a puzzled look on his face.

"No sir, he's with them helping them, well he was, he stood up to one of them because they wanted to kill me," then she paused blinking back tears, "Mr Jarvis I think they shot him sir."

"Alright, Will and Fred you secure the kitchen door, Joseph and Andrew go along the back corridor and take the side-door, Johnny take a horse and get the police." Then he turned to Mrs Ryan "Flora take Grace back upstairs into the maids room and lock the door, don't come out unless either myself or one of the lads comes and fetches you, no matter what you hear."

"But what if someone gets hurt you'll need…"

"No dammit, you stay out of this!" Then quietly he added brushing his hand down her face, "Please Flora."

Mrs Ryan nodded, and leant forward kissing him firmly, "be careful." Mr Jarvis turned and rejoined the rest of the men who had herded the intruders into a dead end.

Jarvis walked to the end of the corridor, it had taken some time but they had the burglars trapped round the corner, and from the trail of blood on the floor one of them had been badly hurt, he hoped that it wasn't Tom. For all his faults this obviously wasn't a situation he had wanted and he had risked his own life to save Grace that at least had earned him the right to explain in Jarvis's opinion.

"You can't escape, we have all the exits covered, and the constabulary have been sent for, I suggest that you surrender as it's obvious one of you is in need of medical attention."

There was no answer from the intruders but Jarvis could hear then arguing between themselves. "No way, I'm not going back to prison." Said one.

"But Sid, the lad needs help, if we don't give him up then we could be facing a murder rap." Said another more anxious than the first

"Yeah Sid, Pete's right I can cope with prison but I don't fancy having me neck stretched." Agreed another.

"Why should we give up, we're armed, maybe we can charge them and make a run for it." Said another more calmly than the others

"How far do you think we'd get? Even leaving the lad behind, there's still that lassie she'd be able to recognise us." Replied the anxious one.

"Only a problem if we get caught." Again the calm voice. "Shush, they're probably listening, now this is what were going to do……."

Jarvis didn't have a chance to grasp what was said before they charged round the corner shooting wildly, he slumped back against the wall grasping his shoulder, and yelled for the others to get down. It looked as if they were going to make it; they made it as far as the courtyard before several more shots were fired. This time it was the lead burglar who went down, shot by the arriving constabulary, his companions threw themselves down on the floor discarding their weapons. Jarvis hauled himself off the floor, still grasping his bleeding shoulder and rounded the corner; Thomas lay on the floor holding a bloody cloth to his stomach.

Jarvis moved the cloth and glanced at the wound, he didn't need any medical expertise to see that it was serious. "Don't move lad we'll have help soon."

"I'm sorry sir, I didn't want to do it, it's just Sid he's my stepfather and well you know what it's like sir, he gets so angry if you cross him and I'll do anything if it would help me mum."

Suddenly Will and Fred rounded the corner gasping at the scene, "you two take him up to the sickroom and be careful." Jarvis stated, "Then send for the doctor, I'll go get Mrs Ryan."

However the butler never had the chance to go and inform the housekeeper. He was kept busy with ensuring the remaining intruders were secure until the constabulary arrived and then reassuring his lordship who had managed to work himself into a complete tizzy. Although the butler noted with growing concern his Lordship seemed more interested in being comforted by Gwen than concerned about his property or even Jarvis and certainly Tom. It was then just as he was starting to feel the effects from his own injury that the Constabulary arrived.

"Mr Jarvis?"

Nodding the butler weakly accepted the hand to shake. "Did you get them all, Sergeant?

"We've got five of them in custody, but all this blood here doesn't belong to any of them. Whose is it? And you'd better see a doctor."

Torn between telling the truth and covering for one of his own, the butler decided to wait he would leave that up to Tom once or if he recovered. "It belongs to one of my footmen, but the doctor has been called for and he has been taken upstairs. "

"I can see you're in no fit state to give a statement at the moment, but may I interview the other witnesses?"

Nodding the butler winced unable to shake off the dark spots that were beginning to blur his vision. "Yes, certainly……"

However before he could finish his sentence the darkness overcame him and he passed out cold on the floor.

"Walter!" Flora's voice rang out clear as she ran to his aid. Throwing herself down beside him she didn't at that moment care what anyone would think, cradling him close even when Grace and Susan appeared next to her. "Go and get some towels and warm water!" Flora barked and Grace immediately dashed off but Susan hesitated, her large dark eyes taking in the scene knowingly. Whirling round the housekeeper fixed the maid with her coldest glare. "Now Susan or should I advertise for a new housemaid?"

"Oh Walter..." She muttered softly alarm growing at the amount of blood that he had lost already.

"Don't worry, madam, he said the doctor has been sent for." The Sergeant suddenly muttered, his old face full of compassion for the distressed lady in front of him. "It doesn't look too deep he should be right as rain…"

"Flora?"

Glancing down Flora found herself staring into Walter's blue eyes. "It's alright, Walter, the doctor will be here soon." She added smiling at him through her tears. "I'm so angry with you; you promised me you'd be careful!"

He smiled back reaching up hesitantly with his good hand to brush the tears off of her cheek. "No Tears."

Kissing his fingers tenderly Flora didn't care if any of the maids were gawping; she simply snatched the towels from Susan's hand without even a thank you before pressing them against Walter's shoulder. Glancing up the sound of heavy footsteps she caught sight of the footmen. "Can you stand?" She asked Walter softly.

"With help." He muttered grateful for her consideration, he had no desire to loose face in front of his men.

"George!" Flora called out and the young footman was at their side instantly. "Help me get him up."

Nodding the second footman slid his arm under the butler's undamaged shoulder and helped him rise. "Can you manage the stairs sir?"

"Yes." The butler hissed, even though he wasn't sure as there was no way he was going to be carried upstairs.

"Walter the Doctor is here."

"Let him see to Tom first…"

"But…" Flora began a trembling pout beginning which the butler silenced with a look.

"The boy is much worse than I am." He answered sadly before allowing George to help him up the stairs a worried Flora following a few steps behind.

- - -

"I'm afraid it's not looking good."

Sighing Adams met Dr Evan's eye. "Will he live Doctor?"

"He was shot twice and one bullet may have caused terrible internal injuries. I'll operate and take out the bullets, but I don't think I will be able to do much more for him." The young Doctor replied sadly, patting the under-butler consolingly on the shoulder. "I'm sorry."

"Aye, doctor, I understand. Just do what you can."

Nodding the Doctor opened his bag and pulled out some very painful looking instruments. "I will be with your butler as soon as I can, but as I only have one pair of hands I will have to deal with this young man first. He still has a chance, if a slim one."

- - -

Meanwhile down the hall in the butler's room George and Mrs Ryan were making sure Mr Jarvis was comfortable and it was clear that although he was in a lot of pain he certainly didn't mind all the attention.

"George could you fetch me a brandy?" The butler asked and the footman hurried to get it leaving the couple alone to wait for the Doctor.

Reaching for a new towel Flora sat down beside Walter on his bed exchanging it for the stained one, a look of utmost concentration on her face. Wincing at Flora's efficient but rather clinical treatment Walter tried to catch her hand but she resolutely pulled it away to keep pressure on the wound.

"Love I'm fine."

"Hm." Was Flora's brief reply.

Leaning back against his pillow Walter gazed contentedly up at Flora's face, his eyes skimming over her features, a smile tugging at his lips as he caught sight of a familiar looking red mark poking out of the collar of her dress. "I will have to be more careful."

"Well you should have thought about that before." Flora snapped angrily. "What were you thinking, playing the hero like that? You could have been killed! I was so worried – we all were, stuck in that room. And when I heard the shots….oh Walter it doesn't bear thinking about!"

Smiling at her concern Walter remained quiet through the reprimand before replying. "Yes dear, however I meant something else…Perhaps somewhere a little less noticeable." He added reaching up and stroking her sensitive neck not surprised when Flora started as his fingers caressed her abused skin.

"What?"

"See for yourself." Walter replied waving towards his shaving mirror.

"Walter you are an utter brute." Flora gasped when she caught sight of his mark, her hand flying to try and cover it.

"Funny I don't remember you protesting much at the time; in fact I don't remember much noise from you other than…"

"Yes thank you Walter Corey." Flora reprimanded sharply a bright flush colouring her cheeks.

"It was only a shame we were interrupted when we were, most inconsiderate timing." Walter teased trying to catch Flora's eye as she returned to tending to his wound. "We will have to wait till I am recovered and then take up where we left off which was…As I recall…" He paused, his hand drifting up slowly from her waist.

"Walter!" Flora hissed pushing his wandering hand away. "Perhaps we were interrupted for a reason."

Frowning in confusion at this sudden change of heart Walter reached up and caught Flora's chin firmly between his finger and thumb forcing her to meet his gaze. "What do you mean?"

Fighting back tears Flora managed to force out. "Well don't you think it is becoming more than just a coincidence, every time we try to move forward in this relationship something dreadful happens to punish us? You find out I care for you through a blackmail attempt, I find out you return my feelings and then your wife falls ill, she dies, Jean-Luc arrives, we finally make our way through all of that and the staff find out and ruin everything and now tonight when we try…Well not only are we robbed but a footman will probably die and you yourself are badly injured. If all these aren't divine signs that our relationship is thwarted I do not know what could be, save a bolt of lightening!"

"Flora." Walter sighed unsure just what he could say to change her mind. "We have to keep trying, I don't think we are being thwarted but perhaps our love is being tested, to see if it can stand the worst that can be thrown at us."

"I suppose that could be also true…" Flora replied hesitantly. "But…"

"Have I told you today how beautiful you are?"

"Stop it, Walter, no matter how you spin things; I don't know if I can do this any more." She added prizing his fingers off of her chin and bringing his hand up to her mouth, kissing his knuckles and fingers. "We can't be together, not like this, not in this way. "

"Flora please don't act rashly." Walter pleaded. "You have to know that I love you, that I've never loved anyone the way that I do you, don't you?"

However before Flora could reply Doctor Evans knocked and entered. Smiling politely as he stifled the urge to raise an eyebrow at the cozy scene he had interrupted the good Doctor began to fuss over his patient. "Right, I best have a look at you. Yes well it isn't too deep but still the bullet must come out…This might hurt a little bit." He paused when the door opened and in walked George with a large Brandy. "Ah, ha! I think you're going to need that drink, Mr Jarvis!"

Nodding as he took the glass and sipped eagerly Jarvis managed to ask. "How is the boy?"

"I'm afraid I don't think he'll make it. He's very weak and incoherent, and although I removed one bullet the other remains lodged in his gut. I'll be surprised if he lives the night. Your under-butler Adams is with him now and someone has gone for the vicar; there is nothing any of us can do now except pray the end is peaceful when it comes."

- - -

Sighing as he sat by the footman's beside Adams sat and watched useless as the lad tossed and turned in a fevered induced nightmare. "I'm sorry, laddie. Sorry you had to get caught up in people like that. You had the makings of a great butler." He muttered consolingly trying to bring what comfort he could, even though it wasn't likely Tom could hear him. His life was slipping away and Adams couldn't help but feel he should have his family around him, the poor mother he had mentioned so often to him, but there was no way she could get to him before death. For a moment it even made him think about Lizzie. Maybe he had been too harsh?

However he quickly changed his mind back forcing such sentimental musings from his thoughts, surely he now owed Tom to become butler, whatever it takes.

"Mr Adams sir?" Tom's voice called out in his ranting.

"Shush Tom, try and rest." Adams replied picking up a damp cloth one of the maids had left and placing it on the lad's forehead surprised when Tom's bloodshot eyes opened and for a moment focused on his face.

"I'm sorry! Tell everyone I'm so sorry and I didn't mean for this to happen. Contact my mother, tell her I love her."

Gripping Tom's arm tightly the under-butler nodded. "Aye laddie I will. I promise."

Then as if that confirmation was all he had been waiting for Tom's breathes turned sharp and short, until finally he stopped altogether, his arms falling limp.

- - -

Meanwhile George had gone looking for Grace, he had tried to sleep but every time he closed his eyes all he could she was her, if something had happened to her tonight he wouldn't have been able to live with himself. He loved her despite everything and he just had to tell her now before anything else went wrong. He jumped out of bed and ran along the corridor to the maids' room; he could still here voices, Lizzie and Grace, good she was still awake. He quietly knocked on the door, and after a minute the door was opened and Lizzie popped her face out.

"George, what the hell do you want?"

"Get Grace for me Lizzie, please!"

Suddenly Grace appeared at the door, pulling a shawl around her shoulders, "its alright Lizzie, just give us a minute." She stepped out into the hall, shutting the door behind her.

"Grace, I just had to tell you I'm sorry, god I'm so sorry, tonight when I thought you'd been hurt all I could think about was how much I loved you, nothing else mattered. Please can you ever forgive me?"

"I don't know, if you really loved me why did you say you didn't before and why have you been avoiding me?"

"I haven't Grace, I've never stopped loving you, I just needed some space to come to terms with what happened, and I never wanted to break up with you."

"But…But I don't understand, why did…?"

"Why did what?"

"Nothing it doesn't matter now, oh George I love you to, I've missed you so much." She said throwing her arms around him, safe in the knowledge that now everything would be alright.

- - -

The next morning dawned far too soon for most of Taplows occupants. Wincing as she woke Flora Ryan tried to stretch out the aches of sleeping in a chair and corset all night.

"Good Morning."

Blinking as she rubbed her tired eyes she glanced across at the butler who had reached out and now held her hand

"You look beautiful when you sleep."

"I look like I have slept in a chair." Flora drolly replied before asking. "How are you feeling?" However before he could reply she noticed the time. "Goodness, it's getting late! I must get washed and changed, there is the Earl to tend to, jobs to be done, and oh you must be starving…"

"Calm down!" Walter insisted stifling a laugh. "The world won't have stopped just because you're running a little late, and you had a stressful night. You should try and get some rest later."

"That poor boy. I can't believe he's dead. Such an awful business."

"Yes, indeed. Most terrible it makes you realize just how lucky you are." He added softly caressing her fingers lovingly not noticing the look of barely concealed anguish on Flora's face. "Would you let me know when his mother arrives?"

"Yes of course." Flora answered awkwardly fussing with a glass of water before bending down and kissing him chastely on the forehead. "I'll be back later with some breakfast."

Sighing dejectedly Walter added bitterly. "I'm going to go mad staying in bed all the time… Wish I had you in here with me..."

"Walter!" Flora retorted unable to keep the shocked tone from her voice which caused the butler to laugh at her blushes. "I may let you get up later – if you're very good."

"Oh I'll be good." Walter retorted with a playful wink. "Of that you have nothing to fear."

"I meant behaving yourself."

Raising an eyebrow as he feigned innocence Walter replied cheekily. "So did I, why Flora such thoughts…" Unable to stifle his laughter as the housekeeper turned puce before storming out of the room.

- - -

Meanwhile down in the servants hall a more somber mood prevailed, the staff were unusually quiet as they ate their breakfast however the icy glares of the underbutler Mr Adams may have had something to do with that.

Finally Susan unable to contain the impulse to gossip any longer exclaimed loudly. "I can't understand why he was mixed up in that sort of thing."

"Miss Eliot, you should eat your breakfast, as there's a lot to clear up this morning." Adams barked without pausing for breath, his face clouded over as he glared daggers at the young maid.

"Sorry, Mr Adams. " Susan managed to squeak and once more the awkward silence descended until fortunately the telling click of heels could be heard on the balcony and they all glanced up to see a solemn Mrs Ryan gazing down on them.

"Right, everyone, I know you're all in shock over Thomas but there is a lot of work to do today. His mother will be arriving at some point this morning so I expect her to be treated respectfully. You can all pay your last respects after she has left, and the undertaker is coming this afternoon." Flora paused glancing from expectant face to expectant face, some where listening politely but certain footman and maids had been unable to contain their amusement on seeing her. Swallowing down her embarrassment she continued on as if she hadn't noticed. "Thank you all for co-operating with the Sergeant Smithers last night, although he may want to talk to you all further."

"How's Mr Jarvis, Mrs Ryan?"

The first footman's cocky question caught her off guard and glaring down at Will she replied frostily. "He's groggy but he'll live. Finish your breakfast then I will need William and George to help clear up in the silver room. Mr Adams can you please supervise the clear up?" She paused but Adams seemed miles away, staring at the table. "Mr Adams?"

Startled the underbutler glanced up at last however he obviously had not heard a word she said. "Er, sorry, Mrs Ryan."

"The silver room? Supervising?" Flora snapped back catching the barely smothered sniggers of the junior staff out of the corner of her eye, yet for the first time she wasn't sure just who they were laughing at and this constant uneasiness was doing nothing to help her bad mood.

"Aye, of course." Adams replied yet it was clear to one and all his heart wasn't really in it and he moodily returned to stabbing his porridge.

Shaking her head slightly in despair as it was becoming clear she would be getting little to no support from Mr Adams in keeping the younger members in line, Flora cast her eye once more over the staff before settling on the sniggering first footman. "Oh and William, Mr Jarvis wishes to see you when you've finished eating." She added before sweeping out of the room intent on finding the chef and asking for a small favour.

Blanching slightly the footman nodded finishing his breakfast quickly doing his best to ignore the muttered 'I told you to keep it quiet' from George who looked almost as worried as Will was himself. If Jarvis had found out it was him who started the rumors well then even injured their butler was a formidably intimidating opponent, and considering the nature of the gossip well it seemed he was hardly likely to go kindly on the footman in question.

- - -

Walking into the kitchen Flora kept her head held high, pretending not to hear the giggles of the kitchen maids.

"Ah, Mrs Ryan, I know why you're here. A good hearty breakfast for the invalid, yes? One of Felix's finest!"

Smiling in relief at the warm welcome Flora crossed the room. "Yes, that would be lovely."

"Well there is no time like the present." Felix quipped reaching for a few eggs which he cracked expertly into a bowel which seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. "Are you in good health, Mrs Ryan? You must be exhausted. Love can be a tiring business, in many respects."

"I beg…" Flora began before quickly realizing just where she was and just how many eager ears were listening in. "Last night was rather traumatic, but I'll be fine. Please let me know when you have finished the breakfast, as I have other matters to deal with." She added turning on her heel and leaving Kraus shaking his head, smiling to himself at the peculiarities of these English.

- - -

Upstairs the butler was sat up in bed immersed in David Copperfield when there was a hesitant knock on his door. Smiling slightly as he imagined who could possibly be disturbing him he called for his guest to enter, his pleasant smile faltering when his first footman shuffled nervously into the room. " Ah, Mr Forest…" He paused tapping the book. "You should read this, that's if your attention span will stretch for that long."

"Yes Mr Jarvis. You wanted to see me, sir?" Will replied looking slightly puzzled, as he shifted from one foot to another.

Closing his book and putting it on the bedside table the butler fixed Will with one of his most piercing gazes and for a moment the footman indeed feared the worst. "Yes, I did. Not about last night though, but about the incident with Mr Adams."

"Sir?"

"You wouldn't happen to know anything about two nights ago, would you, Mr Forest? Although I don't suppose such an upstanding young footman like yourself could possibly become involved in anything – inappropriate?"

Suppressing a snigger as he looked down at his shoes Will replied. "No, Mr Jarvis."

Sighing the butler removed his spectacles and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Please do not tie Mr Adams to his bed again, at least not without my permission, otherwise I will have to dock your wages for six months or worse, do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, Mr Jarvis." Will replied a smug grin pulling at his lips as he imagined just how much fun he would have winding George up about this when he returned downstairs, yet the butlers next words soon wiped the smile from his face.

"Now before you help George, could you first help me with a call of nature? My right arm's not really up for much use."

- - -

Later on that morning Tom's mother arrived at Taplows and it was Mrs Ryan's responsibility to look after her. As a result she was unable to take Mr Jarvis his extra-special Felix Kraus breakfast so chef offered to take it to him himself. Knocking on the door, Jarvis called for him to enter and almost managed to hide his disappointment that it was Felix and not Flora who had brought him his breakfast, however this fact was not lost on the temperamental chef.

"She's busy, so you can at least pretend to be pleased to see me." Sulked Chef as he handed Jarvis his tray.

"Of course I'm pleased to see you Felix I never thought staying in bed could be so boring I'm glad of the company." Mr Jarvis replied as he tucked into his breakfast.

"Hmmm, you'd just prefer it to be of a different kind, I'm sure!" Felix retorted cheekily winking at Mr Jarvis as he sank gratefully into the fireside chair.

"Felix!" Jarvis gasped almost chockeing on his bacon.

"Well being stuck in bed can have its advantages, providing you have the right visitor." Hinted Mr Kraus again slyly.

"If wishes were horses." Said Jarvis shrugging his shoulders despondently.

"Really," said Kraus his interest piqued, "I had heard rumours to the contrary?"

"That is none of your business." Jarvis snapped firmly, ending the conversation.

"Fine," said chef flicking his hair "I see the pair of you are both in foul moods this morning, first Mrs Ryan just because I commented that she looked peaky and now you because there's trouble in paradise, it seems I can't say anything right. So I won't say anything at all." He said getting up to leave.

"You noticed it to? She works too hard, that combined with all the worry recently no wonder she's tired."

"No other possible explanation?" Felix asked still digging. "After all these things do happen how else would we all be here?"

"Oh come on Felix you know me better than that, I am a gentlemen I am quite content to wait!" Spluttered Jarvis without thinking, so shocked was he by the chef's quite natural insinuation and yet he had to admit that particular consequence was not one he had considered. Perhaps it was his age, the idea of a child was something he had dismissed many years ago, he had never expected to consider remarriage and so a family was out of the question but then Flora was almost ten years his junior and as Felix hinted such things did happen. "I think you are getting ahead of yourself there Felix."

Mr Kraus's face lit up like a Christmas tree, "So it is serious I knew it! Did you think you could hide this from me? So when will you ask her….have you asked her…you are going to aren't you?" Then seeing the look of dread on Jarvis's face he added, "don't worry no one will hear this from me, you have my word of honour." Then smiling he returned to his kitchen whistling the wedding march.

- - -

Sitting in her office Flora pondered over what she was going to do, so far she had avoided going up to visit Walter, true she had so much on her hands, what with Tom's mother visiting and coping with the staff without either the Butler or even the Under-Butler. A task made more difficult by the knowledge that every single one of them least suspected or at worst were concocting god knows what sordid stories about what had been going on between her and Mr Jarvis; the thought of them all looking at her and imaging that made her stomach churn.

It was different for Walter he was a man, they all expected him to have or at least to have had a sex life and he lost none of their respect because of it; in fact she suspected that his credibility had actually increased with the lower servants as a result. However she was a woman, an unmarried woman, who had in the past been a strong proponent of strict morality with regard to that sort of shenanigans. Regardless of the fact that nothing had actually happened, or more to the point nothing had happened yet...

That made it somehow worse now she was a laughing stock for something she hadn't even done and it was undermining her authority amongst the staff, most of whom couldn't contain their sniggers whenever she entered the room. Walter wanted them to wait it out, but how could she? Just how long would Walter be content to wait for her, their relationship was progressing quickly and it wasn't as though she didn't have similar urges herself.

She smothered a smile as she remembered the more pleasurable start to the night before; if it hadn't been for the burglary would she had found the strength or even the will to have stopped things before they went too far? Walter had certainly proved himself a skilled persuader and simply the memory of his hands and lips on her skin made her shiver. Clearly he wanted her in that manner and she was finding it harder and harder to resist but yet Walter still didn't mention marriage. Did he never intend to marry her? Did he actually intend to continue as they were? And if that were the case could she then justify their recent behaviour in the light of the beliefs and values she held?

She knew that this wasn't possible; she couldn't live with him as anything other than his wife that would be sinful; against all the laws of the church and the norms of society. But the question that plagued her more and more was how was she ever going to be strong enough to stop it? When he was well again and decided he wanted her with him, how was she going to be able to face him down and say no even when a part of her wanted desperately to say yes? Then how long would it be before the Earl himself found out and then….

Then it would be the ruin of both of them. All of Walter's hard work would be gone and she'd be the cause, and they'd have nothing and no where to turn. She couldn't allow that to happen, she loved him to much to be the means of his destruction and knowing Andrew Adams as she did there was no way he would settle for anything less than ruining Walter. What she needed, they needed was some time, some space to decide just what they wanted and then perhaps…Perhaps if given the right motivation Walter might finally realize the only way through this was through marriage.

Slowly she glanced down at the letter she'd been writing to the Earl, it was her last resort and the only way she could think of to save both of them.

'Dear Sir,

I have now had time to study both your recent proposal and the documentation you provided and I would be honoured to accept the temporary transfer to London to set up the new town household…………'

- - -

Adams, blankly watched George and Will clear up the mess in the sliver room, knew he was getting depressed. It had happened when he had left Lizzie's mother, and it had been something he had managed to control for a long time since. Until now. His drinking is getting heavier and he has abandoned his diary entries and the diet Kraus had put him on (well it HAD all been lettuce and not much else).

"Mr Adams!"

Adams snapped out of it, glaring at George.

"I've been calling you for ages, sir – are you alright?"

But instead of answering Adams ignored him completely, walking out of the room leaving George and Will staring after him

"What's got his sideburns in a twist?" Will asked sarcasm dripping from his every word.

Frowning thoughtfully the second footman took a moment to answer. "Ain't it obvious? It's Tom – he was his only friend in the world ever… Either that or he knows about Lizzie."

Will standing up from trying to prop up a broken chair. "Don't be daft – he can't know about that, he's just being the miserable sod he always is. Probably wishes Jarvis hadn't been so lucky." He adding walking up to George who is winding the grandfather clock. "'ere, d'you think we should play a joke on him?"

"Who, Jarvis?"

"No, don't be bloody stupid, Adams! It'll be easy, we can just make it look like it was Kraus."

Snorting George shook his head. "What, like putting flea powder in his dinner or something?"

"Nah, too obvious. I'm sure our wonderful scheming brains can think of something better than that old chestnut."

- - -

Slowly Flora sank down into her chair, she had just been to see the Earl and now there was no going back, on Friday she was to travel to London in order to compile the new London household. The Earl had stressed that this need only be temporary, until she had it up and running to his high standards and had found a suitable replacement housekeeper, he had even agreed to find a temporary housekeeper to take over here at Taplows in her absence. But even so it was a strange feeling, part of her was relieved and part of her distraught at leaving, she knew that she was only running away from her problems, but she needed time and space to decide what to do. That was something she couldn't get at Taplows no matter what she said to Walter, the very fact that he was just down the hall would make that impossible.

Suddenly Mr Kraus, who for once was unusually grave, interrupted her thoughts. "Mrs Ryan." He said waving his hand in front of her face.

"Yes what can I do for you Mr Kraus?" She said getting up and walking towards the window.

"He's asking for you I think he's wondering why you've been avoiding him again and frankly I must confess the same myself." Said Kraus almost reproachfully.

"I've had a million and one things to do, can't you understand that? I don't… I can't go and see him, not yet. I haven't even decided what I'm going to say." Flora stated, wringing her hands.

"How about how are you?" Said Kraus a smile pulling at the corner of his mouth. "I think under these circumstance it would be appropriate for the housekeeper to visit the Butler in his bedroom."

"No it wouldn't, don't you see they all know and no matter how innocent my visit they would all turn it into something sordid." Said Flora sinking back into her chair her head in her hands, "I have to get away from this place."

Felix was suddenly very concerned and pulled up another chair so that he could sit beside her, "what do you mean?"

Flora sat up and looked him straight in the eye, "I'm leaving," then seeing the aghast look on his face she added, "no only for a little while a month maybe more. The other day the Earl asked me to go to London and set up the new household there I turned it down at first but after everything that's happened since I think perhaps it's better if I go."

"But Mr Jarvis, he'll be devastated."

"Why? It's only a little while, it's not like I'm going for good," she paused seeing the dubious look on Kraus's face, "it is only until everything has calmed down here, I just can't cope with all this. It's hard enough making a relationship work without all the added pressures of having to keep it secret, and now that everyone knows it's undermining my authority with the staff."

"You have to tell him and soon"

"I know, I will, tonight."

Later that evening Flora steeled herself to go and see Jarvis, she had heard from Felix that he had had his dinner and was now settling down with a brandy and a book. She knocked on the door and entered, Walter was sitting in an easy chair by the fire and he smiled when he saw her, putting down his book.

"Well it's about time I was about to send out a search party, where have you been all day?" He said reaching out his hand and grasping hers, for a moment she stood there unable to move or answer; but quickly she gathered her wits and retrieved her hand moving to look out of the window before she answered.

"I've been busy, what with both Tom's mother and the undertaker to deal with, then I had to see the Earl and supervise the staff, I've hardly had a minute to think."

"Well", he said pushing himself out of his chair and following her to the window, sliding his free arm around her waist and whispered in her ear, "you're here now, and I'm feeling much better so that gives me the opportunity to do something I've been fantasising about all day." Before she could protest he span her round, pulling her body against his and kissed her passionately.

For a moment Flora was lost, she flung her arms around him kissing him back but then when his hand moved to the closures on her dress she came back to her senses and pushed him away, "No, No we can't, I can't, I'm sorry but this won't work. I told you only last night this has to stop."

"Why, we both love each other what is wrong with expressing how we feel? The other night felt right didn't it, you wouldn't have asked me to stay if you hadn't felt it too and now we have a chance to take off from where we were so rudely interrupted…" Walter replied seductively his free hand coming up and skimming across her sensitive neck.

Breathing deeply as she shivered at his touch Flora somehow found the strength to push his hand away. "Because it'll ruin us both, we need to put some distance between us, I can't think rationally when you're around."

"Somehow I think that is going to be a little difficult, unless you're planning on painting a white line down the centre of Taplows." Walter scoffed and for a moment a hint of annoyance crept into his voice.

"I won't need to, that's what I came here to tell you."

She looked up at Walter his face was contorted with both anger and worry, "I've decided to take up the Earls offer of setting up the London household."

"No, no you can't do that to me, to us, I won't let you." He said grabbing her shoulder an expression of desperation on his face.

"It's already done I leave on Friday."

Jarvis let her go as if burned. "You made this decision without even consulting me?"

"I had to."

"No you didn't you could have came and talked to me about it, but no you have to try and save everybody whether they want to be or not."

"I tried, but you didn't take any notice, you just kept pressing on with 'it'll just blow over if we give it enough time'. But this won't just go away."

"Maybe not but that doesn't mean it wouldn't have got better in time, but you're not prepared to wait and see are you? It is nice to see which you prize more highly, my feelings or your reputation."

"Stop it that's not fair, can't you see I have to do this for both of us, we need some time apart, we need to know if what is between us is more than just a passing thing…."

"Well thank you Mrs Ryan now I feel much better, it was bad enough loosing out to your precious reputation but now I'm not even a serious relationship."

Flora turned to leave this was just what she feared would happen, couldn't he understand that they both wanted to be together it's just she' s more realistic about the chances of it actually working, besides if he loved so much why hadn't he ever talked about the future, their future away from Taplows.

As she was opening the door, Jarvis slammed it shut trapping her between him and the door, "you are always walking away from me, why is that? When are you going to accept that no matter how far you run I will always be there, you've hidden behind your propriety too long it's time someone made you realize… Dammit woman you're mine and I am not letting you go, ever!" He said leaning in to capture her mouth with his, as Flora tried to push him away.

"Walter let me go." She gasped as he moved his mouth down her neck his hand ripping off the black velvet choker that she had used to conceal his lovebite before moving roughly to the closures of her dress. However unlike before his kisses were rough and as he trailed down from her collarbone he branded her as he went. Finally as a last resort she brought her knee up and Walter went down hard, falling on his knees and bent double, his face ashen. Flora opened the door and ran along the corridor to her room, slamming her door and locking it behind her. Walking over to the mantelpiece she glanced in the mirror, her neck was sore and some nasty looking red bite marks had emerged, just how was she to hide them from the rest of the staff, she thought as she sunk despondently into her chair and cried herself to sleep.

- - -

The few days before Friday passed in a sort of a daze. Most of the staff had sensed that something was going on, the fact that Mrs Ryan eyes teared every time someone mentioned Mr Jarvis and that she no longer visited him was common knowledge amongst them. At first they speculated it had just been a lover's quarrel but as the days passed and they learned that Mrs Ryan was leaving for London the gossip took on a more sinister nature. Even mealtimes were unusually subdued:

"Hey George mate pass the butter." Will asked glancing up as Lizzie dashed into the room. "Anything new?"

Shifting nervously as she reached for a slice of bread to butter Lizzie shrugged. "Yes and no."

"Well which one is it?" Will asked glancing across at George who was likewise curious what had gotten the usually docile maid so upset.

For a moment Lizzie paused her hazel eyes wide with indecision and concern. "I…Well you know I was helping Mrs Ryan, she's been in such an odd mood it got me all on edge well I dropped one of the jars and it smashed on the floor…"

"What did you get into trouble, is that all?"

"No!" Lizzie snapped glaring at the scoffing footman. "She didn't even snap me funnily enough and she even bent down to help me clean it up, that was when I noticed…"

"Noticed what?" George asked gently aware just how unsure the maid was about sharing what she knew.

"Well…Her neck, didn't you think it's been odd her wearing those high necked gowns in this heat?"

"Nar never take much notice me." Will retorted earning him and confused glance from George, the first footman always noticed such things, it was like trying to get food passed Mrs Diggins, and when it concerned the senior staff, in particular the housekeeper, there seemed to be nothing that Will didn't know first.

"She…" Lizzie paused before leaning in closer so she could whisper. "She had bruises all down her neck, looked real nasty."

"What?" Will practically yelled causing both George and Lizzie to hush him instantly. "What you don't think…Think perhaps Jarvis tried to hurt her, and that's why their not talking and she's going to London?"

Shaking his head in disbelief at Will's conclusion George hissed." Nar mate you know Jarvis he couldn't do something like that not to anyone, especially not her, you've only got to look at them when they're together and you can see plainly he adores her."

Turning to gaze at George Will's face was worryingly blank, his eyes clouded and distant. "You'd be surprised mate what people who love each other can do to each other." He muttered softly before suddenly getting up from his place his lunch untouched as he stormed out the room.

Glancing sadly at Will's retreating back and then down at her food as if trying to weigh up her decision, Lizzie slowly got to her feet. "Well for her sake I hope you're the one that's right George." She whispered as she turned and followed the first footman out into the courtyard.

- - -

Flora Ryan sat in her room packing again, the last few days had been difficult the staff seemed to have a sixth sense with regard to this sort of thing, and although many had been shocked by her initial announcement many had put two and two together and come up with five. They knew something had happened something serious and they thought that was the reason for her leaving, damn that Lizzie girl if only she hadn't seen the marks on her neck; Flora knew she had, the look on the girls face after she'd dropped the jar had said it all. God knows what people must be thinking?

Felix had being trying for days to talk to her, but every time she found and excuse or a reason to put him off and escape. Thank goodness Walter had stayed in his room and refused to see anyone but Felix, that way it had been possible for her to avoid seeing him without it being her fault. Fortunately Mr Adams had also been unwell and almost permanently in his room so she had been spared his leering and sarcastic comments. The problem had been keeping an eye on the footmen, who in the absence of any sane male supervision had started to run amuck, Felix had tried to get her to handle it, something about practical jokes and wild goose chases but she had much to much to do supervising her own maids and organising her departure to be overly concerned. The one thing on her mind tonight was should she go and try to talk to Walter before she left?

Instead of going to see him straight away Flora decided to walk around the house building up her nerve. It was thus observing from the shadows that she saw George and Grace emerging from the old bake-house holding hands, their cheeks flushed and smiles plastered on their faces. Seeing the pair on them so happy and obviously so much in love was like an arrow through her heart, why couldn't that be her and Walter? Why was there one set of rules for one and another for them? Simple she answered her own question, because we're in positions of authority and we have to both uphold and enforce a moral standard and we can't do that if we're breaking the same rules.

Sighing she walked to the kitchen door, no one even looked up as she entered they were too busy watching Joseph and Will arm wrestle, whilst Fred provided a running commentary. Silently she slipped put of the room, along the back passage and up the stairs, as she passed Jarvis's door she paused should she go in? She stood there for several minutes making up her mind, her hand resting on the handle, suddenly the door opened and she was face to face with Walter, for what seemed like an eternity neither spoke.

"Mrs Ryan", Jarvis said cautiously.

"Mr Jarvis, how are you feeling?"

"Much better now thank you." He said gazing at her wistfully.

"I'm glad to hear it." She said moving to leave.

"Flora please don't go I'm sorry, I shouldn't have….well I was wrong I was very upset and angry I won't happen again please come in we need to talk."

"I don't know I have still have so much to do before tomorrow."

"Please it won't take long."

"Alright, just a few minutes."

"Of course." He said opening his door and allowing her to enter before walking to the other side of the room giving her as much space as possible.

"I've missed you." Jarvis whispered his voice breaking with emotion.

"Walter don't this is hard enough as it is." She said turning away from him and gazing into the fire to hide her tears.

"So you do still love me? I thought that after that scene the other night you wouldn't care whether I lived or died?"

"Of course I love you, I just can't be with you or anywhere near you."

"Am I so repellent to you then? That you have to flee so far away?"

"No and that's the problem. This is wrong our whole relationship has been built on lies and deceit, and I can't live like that anymore, can't you see I want more than that, more than you can give me."

"Then we'll go away together tonight, away from Taplows and the…."

"Stop it! Just stop it; it won't work maybe if you said that last week it would have meant something but now you're only saying it to make me stay and that's not enough. If you'd really wanted more than what we had, then you'd have talked about it with me but you never did. You never envisioned any future for us, our relationship other then the one here at Taplows, never anything more. Well I'm sorry but I'm worth more than that, more than the occasional kiss on the stairs or a snatched night together. I love you but I want to be able to show it openly and not be ashamed of it and keep it hidden, I want a home and a family and you don't. Face it Walter we are two different people being pulled in opposite directions, it's impossible for us to stay as we are no matter how much we try…." She said stalking towards the door tears openly flowing down her face.

"But I have…" Walter began for a moment a glimmer of hope beckoned if only he could convince her. "Please…"

"I'm sorry, my love, I am truly sorry." She said before opening the door and then closing it behind her, leaving a visibly shaken Jarvis behind her.

- - -

Finally Friday morning dawned an unusually grey start considering the time of year. Flora was picking up the last few things from her room with a heavy heart, when Felix Kraus appeared at her open door

"We will all miss you, Mrs Ryan."

Busying herself with her hat Flora managed to swallow the lump that had come up into her throat. "I am sure that my replacement will be sufficient to keep this place ticking over."

"You know that's not what I meant." Felix replied softly watching the lady before him as she fought to hold on to her professional demeanor. "I hope I am not overstepping my bounds but perhaps time apart will help you two to sort out your problems. He loves you very much."

"I'm not sure it's time that's a problem, and love certainly isn't, it's the situation." Flora added coldly moving to pick up her bag, but Mr Kraus got there first and offering her his arm he escorted to her carriage.

"But as they say, time is a healer and you may feel very differently in a couple of months."

"Perhaps." Flora replied enigmatically and distant before a small crack appeared in her armour stopping she looked at him pleadingly. "You will watch him for me, won't you? Look after him?"

Patting her hand reassuringly Mr Kraus nodded. "Just leave him to me, he'll be fine. "

Outside in the courtyard her carriage was waiting, and Grace and Lizzie arrived to see her off.

"You will write, won't you? The place won't be the same without you." Grace asked suddenly as the driver opened the door and assisted the housekeeper inside.

"I'll be back before you know it." Flora replied secretly hoping, deep inside her heart, that Walter would suddenly appear and say goodbye, but she also knew this wasn't going to happen. Giving Taplows one last glance she climbed into the carriage, unable to quell the feeling that she was going forever, not a few months.

"Have fun in London, and don't breathe in all that smog!" Mr Kraus suddenly added trying desperately to inject a little levity into the situation before they were all in tears.

"I'll try not to!" Flora replied as the carriage pulled out, the others waving, but Flora was only interested in one window. She looked out at Walter's window, but the glare on the glass and the wetness in her eyes obstructed her view. She continued to stare in desperation, but eventually gave up, sobbing quietly.

However the butler was there standing just out of sight, his eyes drinking up the last glimpses of her. He would never let anyone see it, not even Kraus, he was too much the English gentleman for that, but at that moment he couldn't help the tears springing from his eyes. He felt he had lost an irreplaceable part of his life, but he was damned if he had let her go forever. He vowed there and then to fight tooth and nail for her on her return, whatever the cost.

- - -