A/N: Hi all!
Here is the chapter for you lovely readers! I hope everyone is doing well.
Please enjoy and feel free to leave a review on your way out. They truly help keep me going when I feel like giving up. I appreciate your time!
Flames will always be used to light firewood and candles.
DISCLAIMER: I own nothing save for Patricia Winters.
-….-….-
Chapter 6:
-…-…-
"Was it not lovely of Patricia to invite us to her home?"
Pocahontas smiled stiffly as she replied. "Yes, I am certain we will have such a nice time."
Her smile grew genuine as she noticed the pretty flowers that lined the pathway up to the door. Rose bushes interspersed with red and yellow tulips greeted them as the couple made their way up the steps and towards the front door.
The native watched as John Rolfe raised his hand towards the door knocker and then startled as it promptly opened.
"Welcome, welcome!"
Patricia's lively voice greeted them as she ushered the couple into her home. Turning quickly in order to hand John Rolfe a glass of his favorite wine, Patricia's emerald eyes widened in shock.
"Oh, my, princess Pocahontas… Dare I inquire as to what you are wearing?"
Surprised, Pocahontas looked down at her dress. "I am sorry; I do not understand what you mean."
"Your gown is… That dress is simply horrid!"
Glancing down at her dress, Pocahontas was dumbfounded as Patricia stared at her in stunned disbelief.
"It is simply dreadful! I must say I cannot believe you came to my dinner party in such a state."
"Miss Patricia," John Rolfe began as Pocahontas took an uncomfortable step back, "I must have you know the Virginia Company and I selected this dress for she spent the afternoon sitting for a portrait."
The exasperated young woman shook her head and sighed. "I should have realized that fact more quickly. I would have never pictured you choosing that gown yourself. Perhaps if you had visited London fifty years ago…"
Patricia's voice trailed off as the two women gazed at what Pocahontas was wearing. Dressed in a high-necked black velvet gown, covered by a bright blood red velvet jacket that was trimmed in gold. The monstrosity was topped off by a wide, arched and stiff lace ruff as well as a peaked black velvet feathered hat.
"Are you in mourning?"
Patricia asked as she shook her head again.
"No," Pocahontas replied, "We just finished with the portrait and John Rolfe did not want to be late for your dinner party."
"Well," Patricia bounced and beamed up at the young gentleman, "I thank you for being so sweet in not wanting to be late. I am truly grateful. However, I simply cannot allow her to be garbed in such a way at my dinner party. Especially, when I have more guests that will be arriving."
"I can leave and return in a more suitable dress," Pocahontas offered as Patricia briskly shook her head.
"No, there will be no need for you to leave. I have hundreds of gowns for your perusal up in my bedchamber if you follow me."
The native woman glanced back at John Rolfe as he chuckled and nodded. "You best go follow her. She has a good heart, but appearance is very important to her."
"Emma," they heard Patricia's voice as they turned towards the woman heading for the staircase, "See that Mr. Rolfe is seated in the parlor and get him anything that he desires."
"Yes, milady," a servant girl appeared as Patricia beckoned Pocahontas forward.
"We will return soon!"
Patricia chirped as Pocahontas meekly followed behind, whilst the other woman bounded up the stairs.
-…-
Patricia's bedchamber was the largest one that Pocahontas had ever seen. A large gilded four poster bed sat near the middle of the room, with pink silk drapes surrounding it. A plush gold colored duvet and matching pillows lay upon the bed. On one side, double doors lead onto a balcony, whilst the other wall sat an enormous wardrobe. A long dressing table decorated with an ivory colored cloth was situated against another wall, littered with baskets of clips, ribbons and combs of all shapes and sizes.
"This is beautiful," Pocahontas admired as she ran her hand over one of the curtains that surrounded the bed.
"I know, thank you so much! Anyhow, if you think that is wonderful come here and look!"
The native woman laughed as with a flourish Patricia opened her wardrobe. Gowns, petticoats, shoes and shifts of every color greeted Pocahontas's sight. Some of the colors the princess could not even name, far exceeding the reds, golds, blues and greens she had already seen in London.
"Go go! Do not hesitate in exploring. Would you like some wine to drink?"
Pocahontas chuckled and shook her head. "No, thank you for asking."
"I never showed an actual person of royalty my clothes," Patricia laughed whilst Pocahontas watched her take a drink of her own wine.
Tentatively, Pocahontas stretched out her hand, it landing on a bright yellow dress mixed in the sea of colors.
"What do you think of yellow?"
Pocahontas asked as she smiled up at Patricia.
"That color is nice," Patricia said, "Perhaps another color."
"Hmm," Pocahontas began as she fingered gown after beautiful gown.
"What about this green dress?"
The younger woman peered over her shoulder in order to see what Pocahontas was looking at. "I do not believe light green would make you look very flattering."
The princess's gaze scanned over the various frocks and gowns. Moving aside a dark blue dress, Pocahontas gasped at what she saw. A silvery lavender brocade gown, with a low-cut bodice that fell to a wide bell-shaped skirt. The bodice of the gown wrapped around to a free-flowing back fall that reached the ground.
"What did you find?"
Patricia inquired as the native woman gently pulled out the dress.
"Oh!"
Pocahontas jumped as Patricia squealed, her grin infectious as she enthusiastically bounced up and down.
"Oh, is this gown not just utterly amazing! It is the latest style in France. I have not had a chance to wear it yet. I loved this gown so much I beseeched my father to buy two of them!"
"If you love it so much, I do not have to wear this particular."
"No! No, no no! You must wear this tonight! It will look absolutely perfect on your figure. I must apologize; you do have wonderful taste in fashion. That lace is going to draw the eye perfectly."
Pocahontas could not help but grin back as Patricia reached for the laces on her dress.
"Now, let us get that monstrosity off you! I say we burn it; however, I do not think Mr. Rolfe would take very kindly to that."
Pocahontas laughed. "Indeed, he would not."
Sudden voices filtered from the floor below as Patricia glanced at her bedchamber door.
"I will send one of my maids to help you. Her name is Anne, and she is the best lady's maid I have."
"Thank you," Pocahontas replied as she took off her hat and jacket.
"I will have Anne make certain Mr. Rolfe receives back those garments," Patricia said as she opened her door, "Come down whenever you are presentable. I have more guests to greet!"
Pocahontas watched as Patricia picked up her glass of wine, downing it in one go before she placed it precariously near the edge of the table. The pink skirts of her gown whirling as she left the chamber.
-…-...-
"Welcome, welcome to my home!"
Patricia greeted as one of her servants took the man's cloak in order to hang it on a hook.
"It is a pleasure to see you again Miss Winters," he replied as he politely kissed her hand.
Patricia giggled. "Tis good to see you as well. Please, come into the parlor. Would you care for a glass of wine?"
"That is very kind of you," he replied as he followed her into the sitting room.
"Ah, Mr. Smith," John Rolfe greeted as he stood, "Tis good to see you again."
"Likewise, Mr. Rolfe," Captain John Smith stretched out his hand for a cordial handshake, "I trust you are doing well."
"Yes, all is well," Rolfe replied as the two men sat down. John Smith nodded his thanks as a servant handed him a glass of wine.
"Thank you, Emma," Patricia said as she took a glass for herself.
The opening of a door above sent Patricia to her feet.
"Mr. Rolfe," she began as she smiled, "I believe you will find this gown much more suited for my party."
John Smith arched an eyebrow as he glanced at Patricia. "Miss Winters, your gown is beautiful."
"Oh, thank you so much! However, I was referring to someone else. Would you please excuse me?"
Patricia exited the parlor, grinning enthusiastically as she spotted Pocahontas carefully making her way down the wide staircase. The younger woman excitedly gasped and clapped her hands as Pocahontas neared the bottom step.
"Oh my, you look so striking! I love this gown on you! Anne did a fabulous job dressing you. My necklace matches it perfectly!"
It was then a devilish look crossed Patricia's face. "You know what we should do?! We should flirt with my other visitor. We could pretend we are at court and since you cannot flirt with your own fiancé you can make eyes at my other guest."
Pocahontas laughed and shook her head. "No, I do not know how to… Is that necessary?"
Leaning close Patricia whispered conspiratorially. "Oh, come now Pocahontas. It will be so so fun! You just watch me and how I do it. Then, you can copy."
"Alright," Pocahontas nervously smiled as Patricia giggled.
"John Rolfe will understand. Dare I say, you look so coquettish in this gown you have to flirt!"
Pocahontas laughed as Patricia winked before she walked back into the sitting room. Pocahontas followed the younger woman, noting with satisfaction John Rolfe's gasp as he looked at her.
She stood in the doorway, candlelight playing over her soft features and noticeable curves. The silvery dress hugged her figure, accentuating the deep cut of her bodice and the smallness of her waist. The gown reveled the long length of her neck on which a pearl necklace hung and lay gently upon her rounded bosom.
John Rolfe began to speak as his eyes took in the fullness of her gown. Hearing Rolfe's gasp, John Smith turned. He had not known she would be here, and he should have expected it as soon as he saw Rolfe, but all his thoughts were wiped clean as his blue eyes took in the sight of her figure in the exquisite gown. He thought she was utterly breathtaking in lavender, the amber undertones of her skin glowing and making her seem ethereal. A smile that he could not control made its way across his face. He could hear Rolfe muttering something and he turned in his seat to see the other man. The diplomat had turned a healthy shade of red, and Smith knew that her ample curves were the cause. While not immune to the affects her figure had on him, John Smiths libertine nature saw no issue with the current court fashion nor her sensuality.
Pocahontas smiled as she curtsied. "Good evening gentlemen."
"Well," John Rolf began as Patricia smiled, "You look… You look beautiful. Perhaps you would care for an elegant shawl in order to stave off the chill in the air?"
"Oh, oh no Mr. Rolfe," Patricia began as she glanced at Pocahontas, "This exact gown is what Lady Thérèse d'Orléans wore when I visited France a few months ago. She invited me to a very lavish party, of course we had tea that afternoon and I was quite nervous for I wanted to make a fine impression not just for myself, but my father and I thought."
"Miss Winters," John Rolfe interrupted her rushed words by taking her hand, "I simply."
"Mr. Rolfe," Patricia's emerald eyes met his as she squeezed his hand, "She is not just a mere lady. I have heard that some refer to her as Princess Pocahontas. Why, my heart raced like horses across a field when I went to the party just like when Pocahontas looked at what I had to offer. The gown from the Virginia company simply would not have done at my party…"
Patricia took a breath and sweetly smiled up at the gentleman. "I know that you are certain I am right."
John Rolfe blushed whilst John Smith and Pocahontas exchanged a quick glance of interest.
"I understand Miss Winters," Rolfe softly replied before kissing her hand and letting it go.
Patricia smiled at Pocahontas whilst the other woman inclined her head in acknowledgement.
"Miss Winters," John Smith spoke whilst Patricia accepted another glass of wine from a servant, "Is your father well?"
The young woman pursed her lips in thought before answering. "Yes, yes my father is doing quite well captain Smith. He left… He left this morning for…"
Patricia trailed off prior to letting out a horrified gasp as she covered her mouth, whirling to face John Smith's perturbed expression.
"He left this morning to inspect some horses from a dear friend… I cannot believe I forgot to tell you!"
"Tis alright Miss Winters."
"No!"
Patricia nearly shrieked the word as a passing servant stopped outside the door. "No, that was the reason I invited you. My father does truly have some wonderful contacts for you to become acquainted with and I completely forgot…"
Patricia took a noticeable drink from her wineglass before setting it down on the edge of a table.
"I am so so incredibly sorry! I profusely apologize Captain Smith for my mistake. Tell me, what can I do to rectify this?"
"I take no offense for mistakes do happen. It is all more reason I have to look upon your lovely face."
Patricia giggled as she twirled the glass in her hand.
"I am thankful for your forgiving nature and that you will return here," Patricia stated as her emerald gaze turned pleading, "Please, my father will arrive back home in a few days. I will explain to him my error and all will be well. Are you certain you do not mind coming back?"
John Smith nodded. "It would be a pleasure Miss Winters. Think nothing of it."
"I will have someone notify you when I can organize another dinner," the brunette politely sniffed, "I do not know when as I have a few previously scheduled engagements, but it will not take long."
John Smith smiled as he took Patricia's hand. "It is alright. I will be staying in London for some time."
The brunette giggled as he kissed her hand and Patricia straightened to her full height. Sighing, she demurely dabbed her eyes with a lace handkerchief before politely clearing her throat.
"Now that unpleasantness is behind us," the young woman started as she headed toward the exit, "Shall we adjourn to the dining room?"
-….-….-
"All I am saying," Patricia continued after she swallowed a bite of fig, "All I am saying is that Spanish lace, that is lace from Spain is of a better quality. I am the daughter of a merchant. I know these things."
"I have no doubt," John Rolfe began as he set down his piece of cheese, "The gown you wore to the ball the king had in my honor was especially beautiful. If I may declare Miss Patricia."
The young woman appeared to swoon at the praise as John Rolfe continued eating. Sitting beside John Smith, Pocahontas could not help how her gaze drifted from Patricia to John Rolfe seated across from her.
"The ball the king orchestrated when he appointed you to go to Jamestown," Patricia began, "It was certainly befitting for a man of your high status in the court."
"Thank you," John Rolfe replied whilst the young woman's gaze never left his face.
"I was truly proud that evening to call you a friend Mr. Rolfe. If I may say, tis still an honor of mine."
"Miss Patricia," the gentleman blushed patting her hand, "I would do anything for my King, country and God."
"I realize that is so," Patricia smiled, "You have proven that judging from your previous activities. Helping to save princess Pocahontas, sailing to her homeland and of course that unpleasantness in France… The, the list goes on and on, filled with wonderful deeds you have done for your King and country."
John Rolfe cleared his throat. "Thank you once again Miss Patricia. Tis true we have been friends for many years."
At this statement Patricia's visage noticeably brightened, whilst she giggled squeezing his arm. "Tell them about the time we were children and I convinced you to go in my father's barn."
"Oh, come now Miss Patricia I do not think they would be interested in hearing that old story."
"Oh, yes," John Smith grinned, "I know I am interested in the tale. What do you say Pocahontas?"
She could not help the smirk as she glanced at John Smith, then back at her fiancé as she replied. "Childhood stories can be so lovely to hear."
Smiling sweetly at Rolfe over her wineglass, Patricia squeezed his arm once more.
"Alright," John Rolfe began, "We must have been seven or eight years old at the time."
"Our parents often got together," Patricia said.
"We would sneak away from our governesses for when you are a child, constant lessons can be quite… Well…"
"Boring," Patricia cut in as John Rolfe chuckled.
"Anyhow," Rolfe continued, "Patricia dared me to go to her father's barn, climb up on the stall rail and see if I could get onto a particular horse."
"I cannot remember for the life of me if it was Theo or Spartacus," Patricia laughed as she drank more wine, "I do remember you slipping off the rail and well… Well…"
Patricia grabbed John Rolfe's arm again as she threw her head back in laughter, "You had horse…"
"Yes," Rolfe cut in quickly, "We both did. The filth was everywhere!"
"Oh, my," Pocahontas chuckled.
"I guarantee you I smelled it for weeks," Patricia guffawed, "Not to mention how sore we both got afterwards. My dear father did not buy me anything new for two months!"
"You poor darling," John Rolfe patted the brunette's hand, "What ever did you do?"
"I, I will never forget the look on your face when you fell…"
"I did not tell you to come in after me," John Rolfe replied whilst Smith and Pocahontas exchanged looks. The native woman startled slightly as John Smith reached for her hand under the table. She could not help but grin whilst admiring out of the corner of her eye the way his shirt displayed his broad shoulders, and how his golden hair framed his pale face. Glancing over at Patricia and John Rolfe, Pocahontas allowed a small smile when John Smith began gently massaging her injured hand. It did not last long as she winced when his callused thumbed brushed over a tender spot.
"I am sorry," John Smith whispered as he slowly let go, "I."
"It is fine," Pocahontas replied as she touched his arm, "Though I do not have to wear the bandages, the stitches should come out in a day or two."
"I merely went in there to help you out," Patricia took a deep breath in order to calm herself, "Oh, oh my my that story…"
Patricia's laugh ended their moment as Pocahontas looked on whilst the young woman cleared her throat and shifted in her chair. It did not take long for a servant to walk into the room carrying a tray of soup bowls.
"Oh, turtle soup! This is one of my favorites. Charles, I thank you ever so much."
Patricia said as the servant bowed before leaving the room.
"In order to get that image of filthy children out of our minds," Patricia changed the subject as she smoothed the napkin on her lap, "I have a dessert, a rich sweet custard that I absolutely love."
"I enjoy turtle soup as well," Pocahontas said as she tasted the seasoned meat, "One of my father's wives also cooks a wonderful soup."
"That is very good," Patricia said as she looked at Pocahontas, "Do you know who your mother is due to the fact your father has so many wives?"
"Miss Patricia!" John Rolfe exclaimed.
"what is it?"
"Yes, yes," Pocahontas interrupted in order to stave off an argument between the two of them, "I knew my mother. Her spirit left this earth a long time ago."
"I am sorry," Patricia said as she delicately took a bite of soup, "My mother died when I was fourteen years of age. I know how you feel."
"Thank you," Pocahontas said as silence fell.
"About my dessert," Patricia suddenly chirped, "It is a light custard, sweetened throughout and on top for that extra flair of…"
She drew out the moment, wanting to build the expectations of her guests.
"It is sweetened with sugar," Patricia beamed and giggled, "John, have you tasted this wonderful delicacy?"
"Hmm," Rolfe contemplated his answer before giving a slight smile, "I believe I tasted it once before. You are correct, it is very sweet and good."
"Yes, I can see the demand for such an item," Patricia stated, "Although, the way we obtain it is well… I loathe knowing about it."
"What do you mean?"
Pocahontas asked as she took a sip of wine.
"Oh, Pocahontas," Patricia began, "I have not seen it myself. However, when my father returned and told me of how they treat their colleagues on the sugar plantations tis simply dreadful. And yet, the demand is ever increasing."
"I do not understand. Why can't the people have a say in how they are treated?"
"That reason is simple," John Smith spoke an edge to his voice, "They are not colleagues. Is that not correct, Miss winters?"
"Well," the young woman took a breath, "Well, no they are not. I was trying to be polite. This subject is distressing. I never should have brought it up."
"Miss Winters, there is nothing polite about slavery," John Smith remarked, his firm tone brooking no argument from the occupants at the table.
Pocahontas's brow furrowed as John Smith inhaled. "They do not pay them for their labors, their diet is severely lacking and if they try to rest the overseer is always quick with the lash."
Patricia's eyes widened as John Rolfe cleared his throat.
"Surely, tis not that awful?"
"It is worse than awful Mr. Rolfe," the captain tightly stated, "I could go on if you care to learn."
"I do apologize," Patricia began, "I should have known you must have seen it in your travels Mr. Smith."
Pocahontas watched as the captain took a long drink from his glass before setting it on the table.
"I have an acute knowledge of how most owners treat their slaves," John Smith responded curtly as Patricia's emerald eyes widened even further.
"I was taken captive at the end of a ferocious battle. They tended to my injuries and then sold me like I was nothing more than a beast at market."
"Surely," John Rolfe gasped in genuine shock, "Surely, you must be jesting!"
The native noted John Smith's expression. The softness, mirth and liveliness that had shown in his azure gaze from a few moments prior was gone, merely to be replaced by a hard, cold penetrative stare. His direct tone, though calm sent a shiver up her spine.
"I would never jest concerning the evils of slavery Mr. Rolfe."
"My," Patricia breathed as she fanned her flushed face, "If I ever can do anything to combat this I certainly shall. I can tell when a man is being honest."
"Your father has taught you his trade Miss Patricia?"
John Rolfe inquired as he politely cleared his throat and Pocahontas could tell the gentleman was wanting to hurriedly change the subject.
"You well, you could say that. I learned from observing how he deals with his customers, how they react in kind… People would do well if they would simply listen. Tis like…-"
As much as she tried, Pocahontas could not fully pay attention to Patricia's words. Her dark eyes were fixed on Smith's rigid expression. Before she thought better of it, Pocahontas entwined her fingers the best she could with his given her injured hand. Their arms gently brushed against one another, and Pocahontas looked down as they touched.
Before she could speak, Patricia's sudden laugh snapped her gaze towards the younger woman whilst the soup bowls were taken away.
"The next part of our feast is roasted mutton," Patricia announced as John Rolfe smiled.
"That is my favorite," the diplomat said as Patricia beamed.
"It seems the two of you have many pleasant memories together," John Smith began as the lamb was placed on his dish.
"Yes," Patricia immediately responded, "We used to study our languages together. I speak French so well due to John's patience and willingness to teach me."
The diplomat lightly shrugged. "I was learning it right along with you Miss Patricia. However, your compliment is lovely and appreciated."
"Merci," Patricia giggled as silence fell.
A cool breeze wafted through the open window, bringing with it the smell of flowers from the garden out back. The happy whinny of a horse floated on the wind as low murmurs reached their ears. Thinking nothing of it, Pocahontas began to finish her lamb when a soft knock sounded at the dining room door.
Patricia sighed before setting down her knife. "You may enter."
It opened to reveal two servants and a shorter man standing behind them in the doorway.
The lady of the house folded her hands in exasperation. "Yes, what is it?"
"Apologies milady," Charles, one of the servants continued as he ushered the shorter man forward, "However, this gentleman came here in order to seek out Mr. Rolfe. I did inform the gentleman that Mr. Rolfe is an invited guest of yours, however, he insisted on speaking with him."
Patricia sighed and signaled the other servant for an additional glass of wine.
"Yes, sir," John Rolfe began as he stood, "How may I be of service to you?"
"My name is Arthur Fitton, and I am a messenger for his majesty. He needs to speak with you on an urgent matter at this moment. I have come in order to escort you to the palace."
"Mr. Fitton," John Rolfe began whilst glancing at Pocahontas, "I am dining here with my fiancé. I am afraid I cannot leave at this precise moment."
"Mr. Rolfe," Arthur continued as he pulled a folded piece of parchment from a bag, "His Majesty needs to speak with you. We can discuss the particulars on our way to the palace."
"Well…"
"Mr. Fitton," Patricia stood and curtsied, "It is not an issue in regard to Mr. Rolfe's fiancé. John, she is more than welcome to stay here with me. We can have a lady's evening together."
"Miss Patricia," John Rolfe started as he glanced down at the half-eaten mutton on his plate, "Miss Patricia, are you certain?"
"Oh yes," the brunette replied, "I have various activities in mind. I play the harpsichord very well; I would delight in showing her my wardrobe and of course there is my delectable dessert!"
"Alright, I will send my driver to escort Pocahontas back to my estate. Patricia, what time shall he arrive? I will try to accompany him however; I do not know how long the king will have need of me."
"Oh, this will be so delightful! I would come here around a quarter after nine. That way, we are presentable. If you do manage to come along John, the three of us can break our fast together."
"Miss Patricia, you are a kind and thoughtful woman."
Pocahontas shifted in her chair, her hands fisting uneasily in her lap as John Rolfe approached her.
"I cannot keep his Majesty waiting. I must go, though I look forward to seeing you tomorrow."
"I understand," Pocahontas said, "I wish you safe travels."
"I will try to be with my driver tomorrow morning. You have a lovely evening darling."
Pocahontas smiled as John Rolfe touched her cheek before leaning down to press a gentle kiss on her mouth. The native watched as he turned away and followed the messenger out of the room. As their footsteps neared the front of the house, Pocahontas jumped at the sound of shattering glass.
John Smith was the first to react, he standing quickly as Patricia's face blanched and the wineglass that had been in her hand now lay in pieces on the wooden floor.
"Miss."
"I am alright," Patricia gasped as they heard the front door close, "I, I I I am well…"
Even from where she sat, Pocahontas knew it was not true. She noted the younger woman's shaking hands and wide unblinking eyes.
"Douleur Douleur…"
"She is speaking French," John smith said as he eased the young woman onto her chair.
"I, I am sorry… I just… I just wanted everything to go perfect!"
A torrent of tears cascaded down her ashen face as she leaned back in her seat.
"Oh why," Patricia began, "Did you have a nice time Mr. Smith?"
"Yes," John replied as he shot a look in Pocahontas's direction, "Yes, Miss Winters I had a lovely time."
"I do apologize."
Pocahontas startled as a servant appeared in the doorway.
"I fear my mistress is not feeling well."
"I do not understand!"
Patricia wailed as two of her lady's maids carefully helped her stand.
"I am well… I simply fancy…"
"Milady, tis alright…"
Pocahontas stared in astonished disbelief as Patricia was taken from the room, her pitiful wails being heard all the way down the hallway.
"Je ne suis pas belle?"
"That was certainly interesting," John Smith commented as he sat next to Pocahontas.
"What exactly just happened? She was fine a moment ago and then all of the sudden…"
"Did you not notice? She partook in much wine this evening."
Pocahontas nodded. "I did notice; however, the poor woman lost her composure so quickly."
"I have found that most people who are drunk lose their composure."
"I suppose you would know then?"
Pocahontas inquired, a curious tone to her voice.
"Well," John smith began as he stood, "Not all of us are brought up surrounded by refinement."
Pocahontas shrugged as she sighed.
"I must take my leave. I have another engagement I said I would attend."
"I see," Pocahontas stated as he peered down at her, "You certainly get on well."
"If you say so," Smith shrugged, "Tell me something. Would you rather stay here and listen to Patricia's laments or join me at an actual party?"
-…-End of chapter 6-….-…