Corinn

By Judy Lennington

Corinna smiled at her reflection in the creek. Lieutenant Guthrie had called her Corinn. The very recollection caused her to flush. She sharply informed Master Malone that he was not to use that name while referring to her, yet, somehow it was different when coming from the handsome lieutenant. She sighed and raised the stick in the air. She had no time to dawdle, for she had to practice using the sword. She was determined to be proficient in her fighting skills, even though her mother wanted her to be more ladylike.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 12, 2016
• ISBN: 9781524568634

Judy Lennington

Deb’s Alienation is the 19th novel written by Judy Lennington, a retired factory worker of thirty-eight years. Growing up in a family of storytellers, she continues the family tradition. Only now, she hopes to tell her stories to the world.

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Copyright © 2016 by Judy Lennington.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Rev. date: 12/12/2016

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I would like to extend a special thank you to David Lennington for always being there when I need you. You are the heart and soul of my very being.

Thank you to the following people:

Gregory Andrews

Craig Andrews

James Andrews

Timothy and Joni Hostetter

Katie and Ember Andrews

David and Ryan Coots

Debby Rogers Mora

I

dedicate this book to the Wojtowicz family in loving memory of Theodore Wojtowicz. Heaven is rejoicing at your arrival.

I T WAS A beautiful summer day. Corinna sat on the bank of the creek splashing her feet in the cool stream that wound through their country estate. Her younger sisters Abigail and Emily played in the stream. Her second older brother, Joseph, taunted them from the opposite bank while her older brother, Martin, road his horse in the field in the distance. Corinnaw loved it here. Late in the fall, when the leaves were nearly all falling from the trees, they would pack their essentials and journey to their winter home in the city. Corinna did not favor the city much. She would spend most of her days indoors, watching over her younger siblings.

Corinna Wilmington was one of eight children born to Lady Margaret and Lord Theodore Wilmington. Martin was the first born. Looking much like his mother, Martin stood tall with sandy colored hair, a face dotted with freckles and striking blue eyes. Martin stood straight and tall, giving Corinna the impression that he would one day become a soldier in the king’s royal guard. How proud his family would be.

Joseph was the second born. He, too, was tall for one only sixteen years of age. He had red hair like his mother and blue eyes. Joseph was slumped at the shoulders and very pale. All his natural life had been plagued with sickness. It seemed he was sick most of the winters and seldom ventured outdoors in the colder climate. He did enjoy his summer days, much like this one. Corinna smiled over at her brother as he tossed small pebbles into the water, splashing his younger sisters. Corinna was happy that Joseph was enjoying his summer, for soon he would be confined to his room with his bed shrouded by sheets and water vapor drifting in the air around him as he struggled for every breath.

Corinna was the eldest of the girls. She was now fourteen years of age. She splashed her feet in the water, dreaming of the upcoming balls and the beautiful dresses her mother was making for her. Corinna loved to dance. She loved the music and the gay atmosphere that came with the balls. Her own parents would host a ball at the end of next month. There was much preparation that went with the ball. Soon Corinna would be old enough to take part in the preparations.

Abigail was next in line after Corinna. Abigail was thirteen. She was very tall for her age, even towering over Corinna. She was beautiful with her strawberry blonde hair and fair complexion. Her blue eyes sparkled when she was scheming to play some prank on one of her siblings. Abigail was the comical one in the family. She loved to laugh and make others laugh with her. She was also Corinna’s best friend.

Emily was twelve years of age. Her hair was a mass of tight copper curls. Corinna’s hair was curly, but it hung loose down her back. Emily’s was tight and at times, even somewhat fuzzy and unruly. But Emily had the bluest of all their eyes. Her skin was fair and she gave the appearance of a beautiful maiden that would one day be a striking queen of one of Corinna’s imaginary kingdoms.

Cynthia was the youngest of the girls. Her hair was brown and lay in a layer of waves that somehow always seemed to be clinging to her eyes and lips. It was Cindy’s eyes that stood out as her greatest feature. They were gray. They were always gray, not like her younger brother, Thomas, who had eyes like their father’s.

Thomas was six years old. His hair was dark and wavy. He had his father’s eyes, which were sometimes gray and sometimes green. It was hard to tell, for he was too young at the moment, but Corinna suspected that Thomas was going to be very tall and erect, much like Martin.

Timothy was the youngest child. He had dark hair. His eyes were gray. Timothy was constantly pushing his hair back on his forehead which made it want to stand straight up. His mother would cut it short to please him. Timothy was very intelligent and quick to pick up the habits of his older siblings.

Corinna’s mother, Lady Margaret, came from a farm in Ireland. She was a beautiful red headed maiden who was not afraid of hard work and hard times for that was pretty much her early life with Theodore. She met Theodore at a street market- place one day. Theodore was a soldier. He was looking for another soldier who had deserted his guard for the sake of a lovely street lady. One look at Margaret and his heart melted. He would later seek out the beautiful fair maiden and make her his wife. He retired from the military and became a royal consult to the king’s guard. Being favored by the royal family, he was given land and title. He still visited the palace often to consult with the head of the royal guard, Leopold, King’s Royal Commander.

Corinna lifted her face toward the sky. It was indeed a beautiful day. There wasn’t a cloud in the blue sky. The sun was warm and Corinna welcomed it to shine upon her face. She pulled her skirt just above her knees, but only slightly. She looked around her as she waited for someone to notice. It was not fitting for a lady to expose her knees outside the sleeping chamber she shared with her sisters. Her brother and sisters had not taken notice. She looked skyward once again and smiled as she closed her eyes.

Corinn! someone was calling to her. She lowered her gaze to see her sister, Abigail standing before her. Corinn! She called out again, Your skirt.

Corinn looked down at her bare legs and frowned. She had been discovered. She quickly lowered her skirt to cover her knees. Why don’t you join us? Abigail asked. The water is so refreshing.

Corinna smiled as she lowered herself over the bank. She reached down and secured her skirt in the ribbon tied around her waist. She smiled over at her sisters. Joseph tossed a big stone into the water and with a loud plunking noise, it splashed Corinna. Joseph, I’m going to get you, she called out to her brother. She climbed the bank and began to chase Joseph into the field. He stumbled and went down upon his knees. Corinna caught up to him only to find him breathing heavily.

Are you alright, brother? She asked her older brother.

Joseph was laughing and panting at the same time. I am fine Corinn. I am having a good day, actually.

Corinna dropped to sit next to her brother. I am glad you are having a good day, Joseph. I wish everyday was a good day for you, she said smiling over at him.

Maybe this winter will be a better one for me, Joseph said. Don’t feel sorry for me, dear sister. Just enjoy this day with me. For it is days like this one that I will think of while I’m lying in bed this winter.

Corinna smiled. Then let us make it the most memorable of all your days, brother, she said rising to her feet. Come; let us go on an adventure. We will ask Martin to watch over Abigail and Emily in our absence.

Joseph rose to his feet. He bent at the waist and placed his hands upon his knees as he began to breathe slower and calmer. He raised his index finger and said, Just one moment more.

Corinna began to rub her brother’s back until he was breathing more naturally. He stood upright and said, I am better now. He looked around him.

Martin was trotting his horse in their direction. Is he alright? Martin asked.

I am fine, Joseph said smiling up at his older brother.

Joseph and I are going off on an adventure, Corinna began to explain. Would you mind terribly looking after Abigail and Emily for us?

Martin frowned as he looked in the direction of his two younger sisters splashing in the stream. He did not relish the thought of watching over his younger siblings; least of all the girls. He looked down at Corinna. I would much rather share in my brother’s adventure. He replied.

Corinna felt her heart sink. She was bound to abide by her older brother’s wishes. She bowed politely and replied, As you wish.

Come Joseph, Martin said. You can ride with me. He slipped his foot out of the stirrup and reached his hand down to his younger brother. Corinna stood nearby as Joseph pulled himself up to sit behind Martin on the horse. You should be getting back to our sisters, Martin said looking down at Corinna before riding off.

Corinna turned and began to walk back to the stream. She held her skirt up as she walked through the tall grass. It felt soft under her bare feet. Her heart felt heavy for she was looking forward to exploring with Joseph. She wondered what kind of memory he would have of his day with Martin riding on the back of a horse through the fields. She found her sister’s just as she had left them. Come back in the water, Corinn, Emily called out to her.

Corinna once again secured her skirt under the ribbon around her waist. She held onto the bank as she lowered herself into the cool water. Emily splashed her, causing her to squeal with excitement. She would giggle and frolic with her sisters while occasionally looking about for her brothers. As the afternoon wore on, the sun became too hot for them to remain out in it without protection. The girls opened their parasols and reclined on the bank of the stream. Soon Carter would come to fetch them to go inside, as Corinna’s mother did not approve of her children being exposed to the hot sun. They were much too fair complexioned and would burn easily.

Corinna looked skyward once again. Come along Abby, Emily. We should go back to the house. Carter will be seeking us out soon, She said to her sisters.

Oh Corinn, couldn’t we linger a few moments longer. It is such a beautiful day to be outdoors, Abigail complained.

It is a beautiful day, but you know how Mother feels about our being outdoors too long in the sun. We wouldn’t want to be all freckled for the ball Saturday, Corinna said smiling.

Oh yes, the ball; I had forgotten, Abigail said with excitement. We are going to the ball at Lord and Lady Guthrie’s. I cannot wait to visit with Charlene and Cherylene, Abigail said clutching Emily’s hands. They always tell the best stories.

Lord William Guthrie was a minister, second in line, to the Duke of Wellington. He married the lady Sarina and they had twin daughters, Charlene and Cherylene. Lady Sarina had been long in recovering from the birth of the twins and was reputed to be forever barren because of the difficult delivery. Their daughters were very much doted upon as a result. They were the same age as Abigail and therefore her favored friends. Emily, being very close to Abigail, also developed a close friendship with the girls.

Corinna noticed her sisters looking off in the distance behind her. She turned to see Carter walking across the field toward them. He bowed and said, My Lady Margaret wishes that you return to the garden to play. She asks that you use your parasols to protect yourselves from the sun. He looked around them, I am also to ask Sir Joseph to return to the house. Where is he? Carter asked.

He is riding with Martin, Emily volunteered. They rode off that way, She said pointing across the creek.

Oh dear, Carter said looking off in the direction Emily pointed.

Would you like me to look for them? Corinna asked.

No, I expect you should do as your mother requested. I shall seek them out, Carter said. He smiled down at the girls. Should I escort you back to the gardens? He asked.

We know our way, Carter. Thank you, Corinna said smiling. Come along sisters. We must make haste. The sun will be leaving its mark on our noses if we do not hurry. She lifted the parasol over her head. Her sisters did the same. They giggled as they began to walk toward the large stone castle. Corinna looked over her shoulder to see Carter jumping across the creek and walking through the tall golden grass. The girls giggled as they began to run toward the house.

As they approached the back of the castle, Corinna noticed Thelma hanging the washed linens on the line. The wind whipped the white sheets making a sharp sound. White dandelion seedlings floated in the breeze. Corinna closed her eyes and lifted her face upward. The parasol prevented her from seeing the sky, but it didn’t matter. Corinna loved the summer here. She could hear her sisters giggling as they ran around the fountain in the center of the garden. Corinna climbed upon the stone wall that bordered the garden. She held a parasol over her head as she smiled over at her sisters while they frolicked. She watched Thelma as she walked toward the kitchen door. She would take the cellar stairs down to the cellar where she washed the laundry in a basin. The dirty water would be poured into a trough that emptied out into the lower end of the garden. The dirt there was always gray and pungent. Corinna never went there unless it was absolutely unavoidable.

What are you thinking, child? Her mother asked. Corinna smiled at her mother as she watched her approaching.

I love the summers here, Mother. I never want to leave this place, Corinna responded.

Corinna’s mother jumped up to sit on the wall next to her oldest daughter. Oh, we must leave at some point. Winter would be far too harsh here for Joseph. Then there is always the fact that some day you will take a husband and move to your own home, Lady Margaret said smiling as she took the parasol from Corinna and held it over both their heads.

Can’t I live here with you and Papa when I marry? Corinna asked.

Her mother laughed out loud. Oh, no, my dear child, that would never do. You will have a home all your own. It is my hope that you live in a much finer castle, perhaps even bigger and grander than this one. You will have children all your own to play in the garden. I hope they are all happy and healthy. God forbid you should have a child that is cursed with a malady such as the one that haunts poor Joseph, she said growing sober. She smiled and placed her arm around Corinna’s shoulders. I have finished your dress for the ball. Would you like to see it? she asked.

Oh yes, Momma. I would like that very much, Corinna said jumping down from the wall.

Come along then, Lady Margaret said smiling. They walked hand in hand toward the double doors that led into the grand lobby of the castle. They crossed the stone floor and climbed the wide wooden winding stairs that led to the second floor. The open hall above formed a half moon around the second floor with the banister looking over the grand hall below. They walked the polished plank floor to the second door. It was the master bed chamber where Lady Margaret and Lord Theodore slept. The newly completed dress was spread across the bed. Corinna ran to it lifting it into the air to inspect it.

Oh Mamma, it is beautiful! Corinna gasped. It was soft yellow brocade with puffy sleeves that went to the elbow. A lace collar caressed a scooped neckline. A yellow satin ribbon adorned the waist. It is the most beautiful dress I have ever seen, Corinna said holding it up in front of her. She spun in circles in front of the floor length mirror. I cannot wait for Saturday to come.

I am happy that you are pleased. Now all I have to do is finish Timothy’s over vest, and we are ready for the ball, Lady Margaret said.

Oh Mamma, I can’t wait, Corinna said again gazing at her reflection in the mirror.

Well, it is only four more days, my child. I suspect we will all be ready by then. But you must limit your sun exposure, my dear. It isn’t healthy to be in the sun too long. She sat on the bed quietly watching Corinna admire herself in the mirror. There is one more thing, Lady Margaret said smiling. She reached under a pillow and pulled out a corset. You are old enough to wear one of these under your dress, she said holding it up for Corinna to see.

Corinna’s eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. She placed the dress on the bed and took the corset in her hands. She turned to face the mirror and held it against her waistline. Oh Mother, finally I am old enough to wear a corset, she said adjusting the laces.

Lady Margaret snickered. I wouldn’t be too anxious, my dear. You will find yourself regretting it before long, she said. She watched Corinna for a moment and said, We will start you out wearing it for a short time every day. It would be wise to be well adjusted to it before you wear it to the ball. We wouldn’t want you fainting in front of everyone, she said smiling.

Oh Mother, may I please try it on now? Corinna asked.

Perhaps after dinner you may wear it for a while before bed, Lady Margaret said smiling. I did not see Joseph in the garden, she said taking a deep breath.

He went riding with Martin. They were going on an adventure. Corinna explained.

Lady Margaret went to the window and leaned out to look over the fields. I don’t see them, she said.

Mother, Martin will look after Joseph. They are off on an adventure as I said. They are making pleasant memories for Joseph for when he is confined to his bed this winter. His days are long and boring then. He likes to reflect on pleasant memories and times he refers to as adventures. Please do not worry yourself. Joseph will be fine with Martin. I know it is worrisome for you, but he does enjoy his days outdoors in the summer. He gets so little enjoyment in life, Corinna said watching her mother’s back at the window.

Lady Margaret turned to look down at her oldest daughter. How did you become so grown up without my noticing? she asked placing her hand under Corinna’s chin.

You’ve been busy making this beautiful gown for the ball, Corinna said lifting the gown once again. Now I have four beautiful gowns. I am so fortunate to have such a wonderful mother. She spun around again.

Take care, my child, Lady Margaret said. We don’t want your dress soiled before you get to wear it.

May I try it on, Mamma? Corinna asked as Margaret took the dress from her and smoothed it out on the bed.

Lady Margaret smiled as she patted the yellow gown. Not right now, Corinna. We should go down to the garden. Perhaps late this evening after dinner you may try it on for your father. She smiled over at Corinna.

Yes Mamma, Corinna said following her mother out of the room. They walked hand in hand as they descended the winding stairs to the grand hall. This was where they would be hosting their own ball in a few more weeks. This time of year it was customary for a ball to be held twice monthly at one castle or another. The fall harvest would consume their time as winter drew closer.

As they made their way back to the garden they were met by Timothy. Mamma, he called out as he ran to hide behind Lady Margaret’s skirt.

What are you running from? Lady Margaret asked bending down to lift her son into her arms.

Thomas is gettin’ me, Timothy said hugging his mother’s neck.

Thomas is getting me, Lady Margaret corrected. She looked beyond the stone wall and noticed Martin and Joseph riding toward the garden as Carter followed, on foot, behind them.

Martin pulled his horse to a stop near the wall. Joseph climbed onto the wall and jumped to the stone floor. Mother, I had such a wonderful time riding with Martin. When may I have a horse of my very own? Joseph asked.

Lady Margaret placed her hand to her throat. You will have to speak to your father about the subject, Joseph, she said smiling. It pleases me to see you having such a wonderful time with your brother.

My Lady, Thelma said from behind them. Anna has informed me that dinner will be served in the garden this evening at Lord Wilmington’s request.

Oh, thank you Thelma, I shall remove the children so you may begin preparing, Lady Margaret said. She looked up at Martin as he sat tall and straight in the saddle. You should put your horse in the stable, Martin, she said.

May I help you, Martin? Joseph asked.

Mother? Martin asked, looking down at his mother.

Lady Margaret nodded her head and smiled. Joseph climbed back upon the wall and climbed onto the back of Martin’s horse. Martin turned the steed into the direction of the stables and the two of them rode off. Lady Margaret clapped her hands. Come children. It is time to go inside. Father will be home soon and we wouldn’t want to delay the ladies preparing the table for dinner in the garden. As the children giggled and rushed toward the double French doors she said, We really shouldn’t be out here in this heat. She fanned herself as she entered the double doors.

The children were running around the grand hall laughing. Corinna sat on the stairs and watched. Margaret called to her, Corinna, come help me bring a pitcher of water for the children. We mustn’t bother the servants as they are busy. She turned and walked toward the closed wooden door that led to the kitchen. Corinna hurried to follow her. They passed through a small room with an entrance that led to a pantry and stairs leading to the cellar.

Corinna skipped along. She was happy. She had a beautiful new dress to wear to Saturday’s ball and she was wearing a corset. This would be confirmation of her growing to womanhood. She could not contain her excitement. She helped her mother fill a pitcher with cold water from a wooden pail that sat on a wooden board. Tin cups were placed on a tray. Her mother carried the tray back to the grand hall while Corinna held the doors for her to pass.

The children hurried toward them. Lady Margaret filled their cups and they drank until the last drop was gone. Corinna carried the empty cups upon the tray back to the kitchen. Then she skipped her way back to join the others.

Father is coming! Timothy called out. He is coming, he said turning to face them while clapping his hands with joy. The children began to jump up and down with excitement.

The French doors opened and Lord Theodore entered the grand hall. What have we here? It appears the ball has started without me, he teased. The children gathered around him. He gathered Timothy and Thomas into his arms. The girls began to skip around him while holding hands to form a circle.

We are eating dinner in the garden, Father, Abigail sang out. It is a glorious evening for dining outdoors. It has been the loveliest day. We played in the stream for hours.

So I heard, Lord Theodore said smiling. He bent low to put his sons down upon the floor. I spoke with Martin and Joseph in the stables. He smiled over at Lady Margaret. They will be along as soon as they have tended to the horse.

Lady Margaret smiled and nodded her head. Joseph had a marvelous time riding with Martin today. He asked if he might have a horse of his own, she said.

I will give it some thought, Lord Theodore said. He stood up straight and rustled Thomas’ hair. I should prepare for dinner, he said smiling down at his son. Then he turned and walked toward the stairs.

Lady Margaret went to sit in the window sill. She fanned herself as she gazed out at the cobblestone garden just beyond the window. From there a stone wall stood. It was about hip high on Lord Theodore. Beyond the wall were a grassy field and then another wall that went high to protect the castle grounds from intruders. In the many years past it was necessary to protect the occupants of the castle from outsiders who wished to overcome their descendants and lay claim to the land. There had been no wars for many years now. The gates to the castle were always open, allowing anyone to come and go as they wished. It was also for this reason that the children could go to the stream to cool themselves in the cool water on a hot day such as this.

In the lands that surrounded the larger wall, there were smaller homes. This land belonged to Lord Theodore and the occupants of these homes worked for the Lord and Lady Wilmington. They grew their own vegetable gardens, but also planted and harvested larger fields of grain to sustain the Lord’s estate. Some of the women worked as servants and some of the men worked in the house and in the stables. The rest worked the fields and tended to the livestock. Beyond Lord Wilmington’s grounds were the grounds of Lord William and Lady Sarina Guthrie.

Lady Margaret looked over her shoulder at her children playing. Mind you don’t get over heated my children. She said. The laughter continued. She turned to look out the window again and noticed her two oldest sons walking toward the house. How tall and handsome Martin was. Joseph was also tall and handsome, but he walked with a slump in his shoulders. Lady Margaret sighed. Very soon they would be leaving this castle for their wooden house in the city. The winter would be upon them and poor Joseph would have difficulty breathing. This would result in his being confined to his bed until spring. She placed her hand to her throat. How sad she felt for her son. The doctors would visit weekly. Every winter they tell her the same thing. It is fortunate that the boy has lived this long. His poor lungs are damaged beyond repair. There is not much that can be done except to make him as comfortable as possible, the doctor would tell them. They consulted different physicians and they all said the same thing. Poor Joseph, she thought to herself. Margaret feared he would never see manhood.

The young men entered the French doors. They were laughing as they closed the door behind them. They stopped and watched as the younger children ran about the room laughing.

Oh Martin, come catch us, Timothy called out.

Martin began to growl like an animal and chased the giggling children around the open space of the grand hall. Joseph stood watching. As he laughed, he also coughed. Lady Margaret watched, but said nothing. He was enjoying the moment.

She noticed movement to the left. It was Lord Theodore coming down the stairs. You should prepare for dinner, Lady Margaret called out to her two older sons.

The boys nodded toward their mother and turned to ascend the stairs. They nodded at their father as they passed him on the stairs. Lord Theodore went to the window sill to join his wife. They sat on the wide sill and watched their children running about the room. Soon Lady Margaret began to clap her hands. Children, children, please calm down. You are getting all sweaty. I think it wise that you rest on the stairs.

The children obeyed without response. They sat on the stairs looking over at their parents for approval. After a few moments, Martin and Joseph began to descend the stairs. They sat down amongst their siblings and waited for instruction.

The door that led to the kitchen opened and Wilma announced that dinner was waiting for them in the garden. The family gathered near the door and walked into the garden together.

It was a lovely evening to dine outdoors. The plates were passed to Lady Margaret and she placed the food upon them. They all sat quietly until every plate was prepared. Then they joined hands and Lord Theodore said a thankful prayer. Each of them placed their hands in their laps and watched their father for the signal. Lord Theodore nodded his head and they began to eat.

Joseph, I am told that you went riding with Martin this afternoon, Lord Theodore said, smiling.

I did, indeed. It was a glorious afternoon, Father. We rode to the moors. Martin showed me around the stone built by our forefathers. I had never seen that part of it before. He told me how our great grandfather built the wall to protect the castle from the raging war that was going on at the time. After the war it was used to keep the livestock from the marsh. The wall goes for miles. It’s quite impressive, Joseph said. He coughed into his hand.

It took years for that wall to be completed. Your great grandfather also built this castle. He was quite the architect, Lord Theodore said. He took a bite and chewed his food carefully. After swallowing he smiled over at Joseph and said, I understand you requested a pony of your own.

Joseph’s eyes lit up. That is true. I would so love to have my own steed. I would take care of it. I helped Martin care for his horse. He explained everything to me and I am quite confident that I could do it by myself. He smiled and added, That is, of course, if you think I am ready Father.

Lord Theodore smiled. I think you should continue to help Martin care for his horse. I also think Martin should spend more time teaching you to ride by yourself. Then I think when we arrive back at this castle next summer, you should have a horse of your own, he said nodding at his second son.

Joseph’s eyes widened. Oh thank you father. He looked over at Martin. I am so anxious to ride on my own. When may we start, Martin?

Martin glanced over at his father. He smiled at his brother and said, We will begin tomorrow after our chores.

You are the best brother, Joseph said. I will forever be grateful to you for this day.

Thomas spoke up. Is Martin your favorite brother, Joseph?

Joseph looked over at Thomas and replied, I have no favorite brother, Thomas. You are each very special to me in different ways.

Lord Theodore cleared his throat to gain the attention of those seated around the table. I have another announcement to make, he said. He waited as everyone seated at the table looked over at him. I received word from the palace this afternoon. It appears that upon our arrival to our winter home, I am to introduce Martin to the Commander of the Royal Guard for his induction into their service. He smiled over at his oldest son. You have been accepted into the Royal Guard and will begin your training immediately upon our arrival.

Martin’s face flushed. He put his fork down and smiled over at his father. I am honored, Father, he said smiling and nodding his head. I will do my best to make you proud.

I am already proud of you, Martin, Lord Theodore said, smiling. The family began to chatter about Martin being a Royal Guardsman. Corinna closed her eyes and pictured her handsome brother in his uniform. She knew the ladies would swoon at the sight of him. Martin would be a wonderful soldier. He had been preparing for this his entire life. It was Lord Theodore’s wish that all his sons become Royal Guardsmen. Of course Joseph would never be accepted into the Guard. His lungs would never permit him the rigorous training involved in becoming a soldier. Corinna’s heart ached for Joseph. How disappointed he must feel. It was wonderful that Father was allowing him to have a horse of his very own.

The dinner table was a buzz of laughter from that point on. Wilma and Thelma stood quietly nearby. Occasionally they would smile as they listened. When Lady Margaret placed her napkin upon the table, those seated around the table grew quiet. Lord Theodore nodded his head and smiled. It is time we retire indoors. The sun will be down soon. He rose to his feet and stood resting his hands upon the table. It was at that time that Martin went to help his mother rise to her feet. He placed her arm in his and proceeded to escort her toward the French doors. The children followed them, giggling and cheering as they went inside.

Mother, may I model my new gown for Father now? Corinna asked.

Lady Margaret smiled and nodded her head as she replied, You may.

Corinna broke into a run as she raced up the stairs to dress. She called out for Abigail to help her with the corset. Abigail giggled as she pulled the laces tight. Hold your breath, Corinn, she said.

Tie it as tight as you can, Corinna said sucking her breath in and holding it.

Abigail secured the corset ties and stepped back to look. Corinna let her breath out and took another breath. She frowned. Oh my, I had no idea it would be this hard to breath, she said.

Is it too tight? Abigail asked.

Corinna shook her head. No, no; I’ll get used to it. She took another breath. I’ll need to wear it a couple of times before the ball Saturday night. She smiled over at her sister. Mother warned me of this.

Are you certain, Corinna? Abigail asked. Your face is awfully red.

I’ll be fine. Help me with the dress, Corinna said lifting her dress from the bed.

Lady Margaret and Lord Theodore were playing a game with the smaller children when Corinna and Abigail descended the stairs. Everyone stopped their playing and watched as Corinna came down the stairs. Lord Theodore looked over at his wife with a puzzled look upon his face.

Corinna. Lady Margaret said, hurrying toward the stairs. She paused as she placed her hand upon her throat. The corners of her lips curled up only slightly. Was she holding back a smile?

How do you like my new gown for the ball Saturday, Father? Corinna asked as she reached the bottom of the stairs.

The gown is lovely my dear, but what happened to your waist? Lord Theodore asked.

Corinna batted her lashes and said softly. I am wearing a corset, Father she replied softly. The smaller children began to giggle.

Corinna, Dear, Lady Margaret began. I fear you have laced it in excess. You look like you are about to explode. Come, let us go upstairs and I will help you with it.

It was at that time that Corinna began to sway. Her legs felt like jelly and she began to slump to the floor. Theodore, Lady Margaret called to her husband who instantly rushed to gather Corinna up into his arms. Abigail began to fan Corinna’s face. Lady Margaret began to undo the laces on the back of Corinna’s dress. Soon she had access to the corset. Her fingers moved rapidly as she unlaced the corset. Corinna’s color instantly returned to normal and she gasped for air. Her eyes opened and she sat up looking upward into her mother’s eyes. Your corset was laced too tightly, Corinna, Lady Margaret explained. The younger children began to giggle once again which embarrassed Corinna.

I tried to tell her mother, Abigail said. Corinna flashed a warning look which caused Abigail to cover her mouth.

Come upstairs, dear. I’ll help you with the corset and dress, Lady Margaret said kindly. As Corinna rose to her feet and began to climb the stairs, Lady Margaret continued, I believe I explained that you were to get used to wearing the corset a little every day. Don’t you remember my saying such a thing?

Yes Mother. I recall, Corinna said as they reached the top of the stairs. They went into Lady Margaret’s quarters and Corinna turned her back to her mother while Margaret began to lift the dress over her head.

We will lace the corset loose for the first day. Then we will snug it a little more every evening until you find you are able to tolerate it for an entire evening. If you become anxious, I will have no choice but refuse permission for you to wear the corset, Lady Margaret said.

Yes Mother. I will do as you say, Corinna said as Lady Margaret laced the corset. When she was finished, Corinna wiggled the corset to find it very loose. She wrinkled her brow as she looked over her shoulder at her mother.

"Trust me, Corinna. You will find it quite cumbersome enough without lacing it tightly. It will cause you to move about with an erect stiffness. I warned