Unlikely Bonds: Embracing the Future Chapter 8
Dilemma
Tom's emotions were in turmoil after receiving the news of his medical condition. He couldn't help but feel a sense of guilt and unease. The idea of receiving a free pass from the war when so many others were risking their lives on the frontlines weighed heavily on his conscience.
He knew that he had made the decision to be a conscientious objector, driven by his deep opposition to the war, but it still felt like he was avoiding a duty that many considered honourable. Tom had always believed in standing up for his principles, even when it was difficult or unpopular. This situation was no different, but it didn't make it any easier to bear.
Mary, ever understanding and supportive, tried her best to empathise with Tom's conflicting emotions. To her, his medical condition was a relief in some ways, knowing that he wouldn't be sent into the horrors of the battlefield. However, she couldn't shake the worry about his health, especially since the news had come as a shock.
To gain a better understanding of his condition, they had consulted Dr. Finlay, who had patiently explained the implications of the heart murmur. He had even provided a recommendation for a heart specialist in Leeds, showing his genuine concern for Tom's well-being.
Feeling the need to confide in someone who would truly understand, Tom decided to write to his dear friend Bertie. Bertie had enlisted voluntarily before the war had even started, and he hadn't been conscripted like so many others. Tom believed that Bertie, of all people, would be able to relate to his complex mix of emotions. In his letter to Bertie, he poured out his heart, sharing his doubts, fears, and the inner conflict he was grappling with.
Dear Tom,
I received your letter, and it's good to hear from you, although I wish it were under happier circumstances.
I want you to know, my dear friend, that you are not alone in this struggle.
First and foremost, I am relieved to hear that your medical condition has spared you from the horrors of the frontlines. Though I understand the weight of your conscience in receiving what some might perceive as a free pass, you must remember that your stance as a conscientious objector is rooted in your deeply held principles. It is not an escape from duty; it is a stand for your beliefs.
The world has plunged into chaos, and I have seen firsthand the devastation that this war has wrought. While I chose to enlist voluntarily, it is not a reflection of your character that you have been rejected by the army on medical grounds. We each must follow our own path, guided by our moral compass. Your commitment to peace is commendable and noble.
It's perfectly normal to feel conflicted about your situation. The sense of guilt and the weight of our decisions often bear heavily on our hearts. Due to your moral objections to the war is born out of your deep conviction against the violence and brutality of war. Your objections haven't been negated just because you are unable to serve.
As for your health, I hope that you will seek the advice of the heart specialist recommended by Dr. Finlay. Your well-being is of the utmost importance, not only to yourself but to those who care about you deeply, including Mary and myself. Take good care of yourself, my friend, for you have a bright future ahead, one where you can continue to advocate for the principles you hold dear.
I want you to know that I stand by your side, regardless of the path you choose. You have always been a man of integrity and honour, and I have no doubt that you will continue to be so, no matter the circumstances. If you ever need someone to talk to or simply a friend to share your burdens, know that I am here for you, now and always.
Yours in unwavering friendship,
Bertie
Heart Specialist
Tom's visit to the heart specialist, Mr. Hart, was accompanied by a mix of anxiety and relief, with Mary by his side for support. As they sat in Mr. Hart's office, the specialist conducted a thorough examination, assessing Tom's overall fitness and health. To their relief, Mr. Hart deemed Tom to be in good health. However, the heart murmur remained a concern, and Mr. Hart explained that at that time, there were no medical treatments or surgical interventions that could address the condition.
The consultation took an awkward turn when Mr. Hart began to inquire about Tom's sex life. He asked Tom about symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain during sexual activity. Tom answered truthfully, stating that he didn't experience any such issues, and Mary confirmed his responses. As Tom didn't exhibit symptoms like heart palpitations, dizziness, or chest pain during physical activity or intimacy, Mr. Hart concluded that it was a mild case of a heart murmur. He assured them that, with proper care and adherence to his recommendations, Tom could lead a long and successful life.
Mr. Hart outlined a series of guidelines for Tom's ongoing health and well-being:
Diet: Tom was advised to maintain a diet rich in vegetables, fish, fruit, and other healthy foods. He should opt for brown bread over white and avoid foods that were overly rich or high in salt.
Alcohol: Tom was instructed to abstain from hard liquor entirely. He could occasionally enjoy a single glass of red wine or a glass of stout, limited to two glasses per week.
Smoking: Under no circumstances should Tom smoke.
Exercise: Tom was encouraged to engage in daily exercise for at least 30 minutes. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling were recommended to help raise his heart rate and induce slight perspiration.
Sexual Activity: Mr. Hart assured Tom and Mary that they could continue their normal frequency of sexual intercourse.
Relaxation and Sleep: Tom was advised to make an effort to relax each evening and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Strenuous Activities: Tom should avoid engaging in any strenuous activities, which could put undue stress on his heart. This included heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or any task that could strain his heart.
Tom, being a man who appreciated simple, fresh food and wasn't a heavy drinker, found these recommendations quite manageable. He was willing to trade white bread for brown, and his occasional indulgence in dessert was considered acceptable. Tea with bread and jam remained a favourite, provided the bread was brown. As an active individual, ensuring a daily 30-minute brisk walk seemed feasible to him.
Overall, both Tom and Mary were content with the prognosis. Mary was determined to be vigilant in helping Tom maintain his health. Mr. Hart recommended that Tom return for an annual check-up and advised seeking an earlier appointment if he ever experienced the symptoms discussed during the consultation.
With gratitude for Mr. Hart's expertise, Tom and Mary left his office and decided to walk to the train station instead of taking the tram, enjoying the fresh air and each other's company as they moved forward with hope and optimism.
As Tom and Mary left the heart specialist's office, a mixture of relief and reassurance washed over them. Mr. Hart's diagnosis was, in some ways, a validation of Tom's overall health, despite the concerning heart condition. Mary held Tom's arm as they made their way through the bustling streets of Leeds, eager to follow Mr. Hart's recommendations.
Mary had suggested they walk to the train station instead of taking the tram, eager to incorporate the recommended daily exercise into their routine. The brisk walk would also give them some quiet time to reflect on the day's revelations.
As they strolled along, Mary slipped her arm through Tom's, holding onto him as if to shield him from any worries that might linger. "We'll manage this together, Tom. I'm here for you, every step of the way."
The specialist's instructions were clear and comprehensive, and Mary made a mental note of each one, determined to support Tom's health in every way possible. As they walked, she spoke softly, her voice filled with earnestness, "We'll make sure to follow every one of his recommendations, Tom. Your health is of the utmost importance."
Tom nodded, a look of determination in his eyes. "I know, Mary. I don't want this condition to hold me back from anything, especially not from being with you." He smiled warmly, taking her hand in his. "We'll stick to those guidelines, and everything will be just fine."
Mary couldn't help but return his smile, feeling a deep sense of love and gratitude for the man beside her. "You know, the doctor did say that our... intimacy can continue as usual," she mentioned with a playful glint in her eye.
Tom chuckled, his cheeks turning a shade of pink. "Well, that's one piece of advice I'm not likely to forget."
They reached the train station, Tom squeezed her hand gently, his heart full of love for his wife. "I want to be here for you, Mary. Always." Their steps fell into a comfortable rhythm as they made their way home, ready to face the future together, heart condition and all.
Bertie Comes for a Visit
It was a sunny July morning in Leeds, and Mary Branson was bustling around her small but well-kept flat, preparing for her dear friend Bertie's visit. She had been looking forward to this day for weeks, and she wanted everything to be just right. Her sense of anticipation filled the air as she moved about the rooms.
Mary was dressed in a simple but elegant blouse and skirt, and her dark hair was neatly pinned up. She had chosen her outfit with care, wanting to make a good impression on Bertie, even though he was an old friend. She had just finished arranging a vase of fresh flowers on the dining table when there was a soft knock on the door.
"Come in," Mary called, and the door swung open to reveal Mrs. Harris, her housekeeper and Maggie, the maid.
"Good morning, Lady Mary," Mrs. Harris greeted her with a warm smile. "Where do you want us to start today?"
Mary returned the smile. "Good morning, Mrs. Harris, Maggie. I'm so glad you are here. I want everything to be perfect for Captain Pelham's visit."
Mrs. Harris nodded. "Of course, my lady. We're here to help in any way we can."
Mary outlined her plans for the day. "First, I'd like the day bed to be prepared in the study. Fresh linens and towels, and perhaps a small vase of flowers on the small table."
Maggie nodded. "Yes, my lady, I'll see to it right away."
"Thank you, Maggie," Mary said, grateful for the maid's efficiency. "And Mrs. Harris, if you could help me with the dining table? I want it to look inviting for dinner tonight."
"Certainly, my lady," Mrs. Harris replied. "I'll make sure everything is spotless and in its place."
With everyone clear on their tasks, they set to work. Mary and Mrs. Harris carefully arranged the dining table with elegant placemats, polished silverware, and fine china. Mary's attention to detail was evident in every aspect of her preparations.
As Mary and Mrs. Harris continued to set the dining table, Mary turned to the housekeeper with a thoughtful expression. "Mrs. Harris, I was wondering about dinner tonight. Were you able to procure any meat or fish for tonight's dinner? I want to ensure that it is something special for Captain Pelham. Do you think we have anything for a roast, perhaps?"
Mrs. Harris considered for a moment before responding, "I'm afraid, my lady, that we don't have any fresh meat or fish in the larder. The deliveries have been delayed this week due to the war, but we do have plenty of fresh vegetables from the garden, and I thought we could make a hearty ham and leek pie with the left-over ham."
Mary nodded appreciatively. "That sounds wonderful, Mrs. Harris. A pie can be just as delicious, and I'm sure Bertie will appreciate it. Can you ensure it is ready to be served at 7pm?"
The housekeeper smiled. "I'm glad you think so, my lady. I'll start the preparations for the pie right away. It will be a wholesome and satisfying meal. I also have some rhubarb, I know Mr Branson loves a crumble, I also have enough milk to make fresh crème anglaise."
Mary's eyes brightened with enthusiasm. "Thank you, Mrs. Harris. I know it will be perfect. Bertie always appreciates a good meal, and your cooking is the best."
Mrs. Harris blushed modestly at the compliment. "You are too kind, my lady. I shall do my best to make this dinner a memorable one."
With their plans for dinner settled, Mary felt a sense of contentment. She knew that Bertie's visit was going to be special, not because of an extravagant meal but because of the warmth of their friendship and the effort put into making him feel welcome.
As they continued with their preparations, Mary couldn't help but feel grateful for Mrs. Harris and the sense of home she had brought to her little flat in Leeds.
Meanwhile, Maggie went to the study, where she prepared the day bed, with fresh sheets, fluffed the pillows, and placed a small vase of cut flowers Lady Mary had purchased from the market yesterday on the small side table. She wanted Captain Bertie to feel comfortable and welcomed during his stay, free from the war for a short time.
As they worked together, a sense of camaraderie filled the room. Mary was grateful for the help and support of Mrs. Harris and Maggie, and they were happy to assist in making Bertie's visit special.
By the time they were finished, the flat reflected the warm and inviting space, ready to welcome an old friend. Mary stepped back to admire their handiwork and couldn't help but smile. Everything was coming together beautifully, and she couldn't wait to see Bertie's reaction when he arrived later that day.
Bertie arrived at 4pm, Mary welcomed him warmly into her home. "Congratulations Bertie on your promotion to Captain," Mary said as she showed Bertie to the sitting room and orders tea for them both, "Thank you!" he said.
Bertie and Mary enjoyed a pleasant conversation in the sitting room while sipping their tea. Mary found Bertie to be a calming presence, and his visit was a welcome respite from the worries that had been plaguing Tom lately.
As they chatted, Mary couldn't help but marvel at how far they had all come since her days at Downton Abbey. She shared stories of her studies at the University of Leeds, her dedication to learning, and her desire to contribute to the war effort in her own way.
Bertie, ever the attentive friend, listened intently and offered words of encouragement. "I know you to be a determined and capable person, Mary. I have no doubt you'll excel in your studies and make a meaningful impact."
Mary smiled gratefully, appreciating Bertie's unwavering support. "Your faith in me means a great deal, Bertie."
Their conversation continued, touching on various topics from university life to the changing world around them. Mary was keen to keep Bertie engaged and help him relax after his journey.
Finally, just as the clock struck six, the sound of the front door opening announced Tom's return. Mary stood to greet him, her eyes lighting up as she saw her husband enter the room.
"Tom, you're back!" Mary exclaimed, rushing over to him and giving him a welcoming kiss.
Tom grinned, clearly pleased to be home. "I couldn't wait to return, especially with Bertie here."
Bertie and Tom exchanged warm greetings, pleased to see each other again after a long absence. The camaraderie between the three friends was palpable as they settled into the cosy sitting room.
As the evening wore on, Mary, Tom, and Bertie enjoyed a delightful dinner together, sharing stories, laughter, and the promise of a bright future, even during challenging times.
Mary had gone to the workroom downstairs to finish an essay due for one of her lectures, leaving the two friends alone to converse in privacy. In the dimly lit sitting room, Tom and Bertie sat in plush armchairs, the soft glow of a table lamp casting a warm ambiance around them. The room felt cosy and private, an ideal setting for their candid conversation.
Bertie took a deep breath and spoke with a tone weighed down by the gravity of his thoughts. "Tom, I must confess, my optimism about this war ending soon has faded. I've seen too many comrades fall, too many lives shattered, and it weighs heavily on me. Sometimes, I can't help but feel relieved that I'm working at Central HQ and not at the front, I feel like a coward."
Tom regarded his friend with understanding in his eyes. "Bertie, what you feel doesn't make you a coward. It makes you sensible. Anyone who's seen the horrors of the front lines would understand why a man would want to avoid it. Your work at Central HQ is valuable, and it doesn't make you any less of a patriot."
Bertie sighed, his shoulders slumping. "But I can't help feeling like I should be there, with the men, facing the same dangers they do. This guilt gnaws at me."
Tom leaned forward, his voice firm. "You would do your duty, Bertie. I've known you long enough to be certain of that. Your duty to your men, to your comrades, is just as vital as serving at the front."
Bertie nodded, appreciating Tom's reassurance. "And what about you, Tom? How do you cope with not being able to serve?"
Tom's expression grew sombre. "It's a different kind of guilt for me. I had fully committed to being a conscientious objector, driven by my moral and political beliefs. But the army rejected me on medical grounds. I'll never have to state my objection, never face the consequences like the other objectors have."
Bertie empathised with his friend's predicament. "Your health is a valid reason, Tom. If you had objected, your skills in designing more efficient vehicles would have been invaluable. Your work in the steel industry is just as vital to the war effort. I am sure the war department would have given you a waiver."
Tom nodded in agreement. "You're right, Bertie. Sometimes, I feel a different kind of duty, a duty to contribute in the best way I can, given my circumstances. It's the political mechanism I object to, not the actual men at the front, it's them I want to aid."
The two friends fell into a contemplative silence, their thoughts filled with memories of college days, shared laughter, and now, the sobering reality of war. Bertie broke the silence, his voice softer. "I met Peter Pelham and Orwell Power at Brancaster on my last leave. They're well, given the circumstances. Peter has been working on extending the estate farms with my father, making them more efficient, like a lot of landowners they have lost many workers to the war effort. Orwell is doing his part at the front, as you know. But I thought he looked better than the last time I saw him, not as pallid and tired. They send their regards."
Tom raised his glass of sparkling water, and Bertie followed suit, and together they toasted to the fallen and to the enduring bonds of friendship that had carried them through their shared past and an uncertain future.
The evening was adorned with an air of anticipation as Mary meticulously prepared for the dinner party she had planned in Bertie's honour. Determined to make it a joyous occasion, she had invited Henry, Claire Mulberry, and Fleur Flowers to be their guests. Mary wanted Bertie's visit to be memorable and filled with warmth, a respite from the grim realities of the war.
Henry had managed to secure a large chicken for the occasion, which he had delivered directly to the house. Mrs. Harris, their trusted housekeeper, was busy in the kitchen, preparing a vegetable soup with thick-cut brown bread, roast chicken and vegetables, and a delightful fruit tart to follow, using fruit from the garden.
In consideration of Tom's heart condition, this evening's table beverages consisted of ginger beer and lemonade, a far cry from the spirits they used to indulge in. Everyone was dressing for dinner, with the men donning their tails and the women adorning elegant evening gowns.
Mary's excitement was palpable, and Tom couldn't help but smile at the sight of his radiant wife. Lately, they had both been under considerable stress, with Mary juggling the pressures of university and Tom's health condition looming over them. Mary chose to wear the same green dress she had worn on their honeymoon, and Tom couldn't resist stealing a passionate kiss from her in the privacy of their bedroom. Mary playfully scolded him for "mussing my hair."
Leaving Mary to put the finishing touches on her appearance, Tom took a moment to check that everything was in order. He ensured that the other rooms were tidy and that the dining room had been impeccably set for dinner. While Tom rarely partook in alcoholic beverages anymore, he made sure that a selection of sherry, Whiskey, and brandy was available for their guests who might prefer something stronger than sparkling water.
In the sitting room, Bertie joined Tom, admiring the warm and inviting atmosphere. "Your home is lovely," he complimented Tom. "The last time I saw it, it was just a shell."
"Thanks, Bertie," Tom replied with pride, "but it was Mary who added the finishing touches that made it a home."
A ringing bell signalled the arrival of their guests, and Maggie hurried to answer the door. Soon, the feminine voices of Fleur and Claire filled the hallway, and Mary made her entrance to greet them. She introduced Fleur and Claire to Bertie, although they were already acquainted with Tom from meeting at the university with Mary.
Their introductions were cut short by the arrival of the final guest, Henry. The group engaged in light-hearted banter and friendly conversation, with Tom offering a selection of beverages. They all chose their preferred drinks, with Tom and Mary opting for sparkling water. As Tom served sherry and whiskey to the rest, Henry couldn't help but express his appreciation for the fine spirits.
"Mmm! This is good stuff," Henry remarked with a satisfied grin.
"I bought a couple of bottles back when we were in Ireland before the war," Tom explained, sharing a fond memory.
The discussion soon evolved into a spirited debate over the superiority of whiskey versus whisky, a friendly argument they had enjoyed in many an Irish pub during their student days. Tom, in his typical fashion, championed Irish whiskey, while Bertie staunchly defended Scottish whisky. Henry, however, always seemed to support the underdog, lending his voice to the side that appeared to be losing.
With Maggie's discreet signal, Mary gracefully directed her guests through the double doors into the dining room, where they would savour their meal and continue their delightful conversation.
The dinner party was in full swing, the dining room bathed in a warm, intimate glow cast by a chandelier adorned with soft, glowing bulbs. The polished silverware and fine china gleamed under the soft candlelight, lending an air of elegance to the occasion.
Mrs. Harris, with Maggie's assistance, had outdone herself. The rich aroma of vegetable soup wafted through the room, accompanied by the enticing scent of roast chicken. Bertie, Henry, Claire, Mary, and Fleur were seated around the well-set table, their evening attire adding a touch of sophistication to the gathering.
Henry leaned in, complimenting the cook. "Mrs. Harris, this chicken is truly delicious. You've outdone yourself."
Mrs. Harris, her face glowing with pride, gave a modest nod. "Thank you, Mr. Brearerly. I'm delighted you're enjoying it."
With a playful twinkle in his eye, Tom raised his glass of ginger beer, proposing a toast. "To good friends and good food. May we have many more evenings like this."
The clink of glasses and murmurs of agreement filled the air as they savoured the hearty meal. As the main course came to an end, the conversation turned to lighter topics.
Fleur, her eyes shining with excitement, couldn't contain herself. "Have any of you heard of 'The Exploits of Elaine'? It's the latest serial picture starring Pearl White, and it's simply marvellous! The daring stunts she pulls off are incredible."
Mary, her interest piqued, joined in. "We saw 'The Perils of Pauline' recently, and it was equally thrilling. I'm glad to hear 'The Exploits of Elaine' is just as good. We should all go see it together."
Claire chimed in, her enthusiasm evident. "Absolutely! Movie nights are such a delightful way to unwind."
Bertie and Tom exchanged amused glances. They had always enjoyed the spirited debates over whiskey themselves when in university, and it was heartwarming to see their friends so animated.
After a lively discussion, Mary received a signal from Maggie, indicating that dinner was ready to progress to its next stage. She gracefully directed her guests through the double doors into the adjoining sitting room, where they could relax and enjoy dessert and coffee.
Over dessert, the conversation flowed seamlessly between discussions of movies, the latest university happenings, and fond reminiscences of their college days. The camaraderie in the room was palpable, a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship that had carried them through both joyful and challenging times.
As they savoured their fruit tart and sipped coffee, it was clear that Bertie's visit was a resounding success, a moment of respite and joy in a world overshadowed by the horrors of war. Plans for their movie night formed easily, an exciting prospect that they all looked forward to.
In that cosy flat, amidst laughter and shared memories, they found solace in each other's company, a beacon of light during the darkness.
The night air was crisp and cool as Mary, Tom, and Bertie made their way to the Picture House near the train station in Leeds. Excitement buzzed in the atmosphere as they anticipated a night of cinematic adventure. Mary had insisted on leading the way, eager to share her newfound enthusiasm for movies with her friends.
As they strolled through the bustling streets, their footsteps echoing on the cobblestones, Bertie couldn't help but marvel at the lively atmosphere of the city. "Leeds is quite different from the countryside," he commented.
Mary nodded, a smile playing on her lips. "It is indeed. But it has its own charm, don't you think? There's always something happening here."
Tom, walking beside them, added, "And tonight, it's the movies. You'll enjoy it, Bertie. It's a unique experience."
Arriving at the Picture House, they spotted Fleur and Claire waiting near the entrance. Laughter and greetings filled the air as they exchanged warm hellos.
"We're in for a treat tonight," Fleur exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "The Exploits of Elaine' promises thrills and excitement."
Claire nodded in agreement. "I've heard great things about it. And I must say, Mary, your enthusiasm for these movies is infectious."
Mary beamed, delighted by their shared enthusiasm. "Well, I believe we're in for a wonderful evening."
Before heading in to see the movie, Mary couldn't resist sharing one of her local favourites with her friends. "But first, we mustn't forget the fish and chips," she said with a mischievous grin.
They made their way to a nearby chipper that Mary had frequented, where the tantalising aroma of freshly fried fish and golden chips filled the air. Laughter and chatter ensued as they placed their orders, and Mary assured them that this was an experience not to be missed.
Sitting on a park bench nearby, they enjoyed their simple yet delicious meal, the flavours dancing on their taste buds. It was a testament to the simple joys of life, a respite from the weight of the world.
With satisfied appetites, they headed back to the Picture House, where anticipation for the movie ran high. The cinema was dimly lit, and they found their seats, settling in for the thrilling adventure of 'The Exploits of Elaine.'
The film transported them to a world of daring escapades and cunning villains, where the fearless heroine faced one perilous situation after another. Gasps and cheers echoed through the theatre as they were swept up in the suspenseful narrative.
As the credits rolled, Mary turned to her friends, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Wasn't that absolutely marvellous?"
Bertie, clearly impressed, nodded vigorously. "It was incredible! I never thought a movie could be so thrilling."
Fleur and Claire shared enthusiastic agreement, their faces lit up with excitement.
The night had been a resounding success, filled with laughter, suspense, and shared joy. As they left the Picture House and headed back to Tom and Mary's flat, their spirits were high, and their hearts were light.
In the cosy warmth of their home, they reminisced about their favourite scenes from the movie, their laughter filling the room. The world outside might have been engulfed in war, but for that brief moment, they had found solace and happiness in each other's company.
It was a night they would treasure, a memory that would shine brightly in the midst of dark times.
It was a sad moment the following morning when Tom and Mary had to wave goodbye to Bertie, as the captain headed back to his duties.
Note: next one is the last chapter
