The Enlightenment of Sophia

By Patricia Dolling-Mann

Sophia, a pretty country girl, has heard tales about how others live up at the big house where her mother and late friend Anna Maria used to work as maids.  Sophia dreams of becoming one of those privileged people so is thrilled to become&nbsp

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookTrail Publishing
• Release date: Jul 6, 2022
• ISBN: 9781637679302

Patricia Dolling-Mann

Patricia Dolling-Mann was born in Northampton and started working at the local newspaper office with a view to becoming a journalist. After a short time she realised her vocation was to nurse. Early retirement from the nursing profession has given her time to fulfil her lifelong ambition to write. After gaining an honor's degree in English Literature with the Open University she has since devoted many hours to writing. A passion for the writings of Thomas Hardy prompted her and her husband to move to Dorset. Although now living in the South East of England, a library of Hardy-related works keeps her in touch with her beloved Wessex.

Book preview

Chapter 1

It had been an exceptionally warm day for May but the two women who had taken advantage of the shade from the old Sycamore tree, after which the old cottage had been named, were now feeling the Spring chill in the air.

Are you quite sure ‘tis what you really want, Sophia my girl?

Mrs Price looked across at her daughter admiring her beautiful dark tresses and glowing skin, so unlike the rest of her fair haired children. Sophia was putting the finishing touches to a pretty, embroidered tray cloth she’d started as soon as she and Darius Tilley had become betrothed.

Feeling certain of what Sophia’s reply would be, as indeed it had been for the past few months whenever the subject was brought up, Jane Price felt it was her maternal duty to shield her daughter from any possible future unhappiness. She still felt the loss of her first-born as if it were only yesterday that the tragedy had transpired for whenever she thought she had come to terms with her sad loss, begun to accept Effie’s unfortunate demise, a simple reminder like the sight of the village girls club walking or the simple, unassuming smell of a rose could evoke heart-rending memories. Occasionally those memories would make her smile but oft-times they would bring an unshed tear to her eye. Sometimes, when she was alone, she would shed private tears of absolute wretchedness but never when anyone could see or hear her. This why she felt she must do all in her power to protect her precious daughter

Now it was fresh Spring, the herald of love’s almighty king and the thought of the wedding growing ever closer, made the mother more and more anxious for her eldest child who was to leave the safety of the nest to enter into a union which, in her opinion, was far from ideal and fraught with potential problems.

Sophia looked up from her needlework and observed with dismay the frown on her mother’s countenance. With a sigh she carefully placed her sewing on the table and prepared once again to endeavour to convince her dear mama that the idea of marrying Darius Tilley was the most exciting thing that had happened to her in the whole of her nineteen years on God’s earth.

You forget the facts, mother, she said emphatically. I love Darius and he loves me but what is most important to both of us is our Effie’s last wish. She asked Darius to marry me and take care of me and I agree with him, ‘tis what we should do and Darius is an educated man who I do so admire. I’m surprised he’s even interested in me. She picked up her sewing and then continued with her discourse. I know his family are against the marriage, especially his mother, but Darius has assured me they will come round once we are wed and even more so when our children start to arrive. Sophia blushed at the last declaration for they had recently sampled the delights of what should have been reserved for the wedding night.

Let’s hope you’re right my girl. Our Effie would not want you to be unhappy but there, you’re marrying the son, not the whole Tilley family. You just remember that if there’s any trouble.

There won’t be any trouble. You worry too much, Sophia retorted. ‘I’m going indoors now Mother. You should come to. ’Tis getting quite chilly’

Jane smiled reluctantly. She’d said her bit, done all she could now it was up to her daughter and the man she professed to love to make a go of their marriage. She wondered what Fred Price would have made of it. He had been eager for his children to make the most of what was offered and had been so very proud of his offspring but would he have drawn the line at this union? She couldn’t find a convincing answer to the perplexing question and sadly Fred was no longer with them to advise. It was now in the laps of the Gods and all Jane could do was hope and pray that all would turn out as well as Sophia optimistically predicted.

Chapter 2

It was a warm, sunny afternoon, with a gentle breeze to lift the humidity. The year was 1890 that the church bells rang out their joyous message loud and clear across the lush undulating hills deep within the heart of the Wessex countryside. Not the slow ponderous sound of the funeral bell tolling its sad news to all who had the misfortune to be in its vicinity as it had on one awful July morn in the far away county town of Marshland almost three years ago to the day, but a joyous, melodic sound, lifting the spirit and heralding a happy occasion. Any person near the village of Gilthorpe that day would have been correct in assuming it was a time for celebration for there inside the ancient grey stone church of St. Andrew, two people had just pledged, before God and the congregation, to devote the whole of their lifetime together.

Now, as the couple left the confines of the ancient interior she, a tall, attractive young woman in a gown of ivory muslin, pale blue sash showing off her hand span waist and forget-me-nots sprinkled liberally throughout her chestnut tresses, proudly held the arm of her new husband. He, somewhat older, distinguished, handsome and as well proportioned as befits a man who spends most of his time outdoors, smiled as they exchanged pleasantries with well-wishers. The couple, who so recently had knelt at the altar in order to exchange vows, were now man and wife. Her name no longer Miss Sophia Maria Price as it had been for the past nineteen years but Mrs. Darius Tilley.

The church, which had been full to bursting, now spilled its contents into the warm welcoming sunshine. The occasional shadow caused by a few cotton wool clouds floating across the sun, did little to mar the brightness of the day. The sadness, in which the whole village had shared with its neighbour Eastville, but a few years ago, was now firmly placed in the annals of history where it belonged and the future given the precedence it so richly deserved.

Mr and Mrs Tilley, were liberally covered with rose petals thrown by zealous onlookers as they made their way down the grassy path amid the ancient gravestones to the lych gate to wait for their invited guests.

Keeping his voice low, Darius said in Sophia’s ear, I’m yearning to share our little secret m’dear. What d’you think?

Sophia, blushing like the maiden she was no more, put a finger to her lips and smiled briefly. Her cautionary look was enough to answer his question and still his lips. They were the only ones who knew for certain there was to be a happy event around Christmas time. They would tell everyone in due course for it was not a secret that could be hidden indefinitely. But, this was their wedding day. There would be time enough to tell of the future celebration, which would take place at St.Andrews in the New Year.

As soon as everyone was assembled, the couple led the procession to the nearby church hall where Mrs. Tilley senior together with the vicar of Gilthorpe’s wife, Mrs. Mattie Barnes, had so kindly arranged the wedding feast.

When the preparations had been in the planning stage, Sophia was adamant she didn’t want a large gathering, just their immediate family with Lucy and Marianne as her bridesmaids and a few special friends to an informal spread after the service. Darius had gently reminded her when she raised an objection to his parents’ intervention, You know how mother and father feel about us marrying m’dear. You know also how very fond they are of you, but I have to admit they’re a little old-fashioned in their outlook and do consider deep down that it is a mistake for people from different classes to marry especially with circumstances as they are. He did not mention his unfortunate marriage with her sister but the implication was there wasn’t it.

"I know ‘tis really against the law, Darius, but you’re not the first and won’t be the last to marry a deceased wife’s sister, as our Effie told you.’ Sophia was quick to point out. ‘Tis common place around these parts.’

Darius had tried to explain his parents’ views often enough but always assured Sophia it made no difference to how he felt about her, after all he insisted romantically, love is all that matters. He was quick to add a rejoinder though, We wouldn’t wish to upset them further by refusing their kind offer to lay on the feast now would we?

Because she dearly wanted to please Darius, Sophia had agreed although she secretly thought Mr and Mrs Tilley to be snobs of the highest order and he being a doctor should know better and make allowances with the circumstances being what they were.

They were alone in his lodging above the dairy and the straw was heady and warm. Darius had taken her in his arms and kissed her long and hard to show his appreciation of her understanding. Before long the passionate kiss had been repeated and soon they were making green and youthful love for the first time. Although they had vowed never to allow themselves the delicious experience again until the knot was firmly tied they soon found out their union had resulted in a happy event to look forward to. At first, Sophia was alarmed but Darius reassured her that fate was the dictator and they should be pleased for they wanted a large family as soon as possible.

I’ll just tell Mother, Darius. She will understand and be thrilled I’m sure.

Let’s wait until we’re married m’dear. I’d hate the news to leak as far as Waterville.

I’m so sorry Darius but mother caught me being ill several mornings in a row and she was alarmed so I had to tell her.

So they decided not to tell anyone else until a few weeks after they were wed. Mr and Mrs Tilley just might not understand although Sophia was sure her own mother did. After all, Mrs Price was proud mama to five children, although sadly it was now only four and Sophia knew she had suffered several miscarriages so she reasoned her mother must have loved her husband very much and would therefore understand her overwhelming love for Darius and his for her. Come to think of it, Mrs Tilley was mama to four children but Sophia thought she must have given in to the doctor out of a sense of duty and to preserve the family line such was her unbending attitude to life.

The trestle tables had been set all round the edge of the room so they wouldn’t have to be carted away after the meal and were resplendent in white linen cloths although the covering could hardly be seen as so much food had been piled upon them. At one end of the room the musicians were tinkering with their instruments but would not start to play until the food had been cleared away. This was on the instructions of the senior lady present.

There was plenty of free ale in the offing that afternoon and most of the guests took full advantage of their host’s hospitality so by the time Darius and his bride rose to start the dancing they were quickly joined by old and young alike to form groups of eight. Soon they were cavorting merrily to the energetic sounds of the fiddles and tambourine. As they passed during one of the convoluted movements Darius caught Sophia by the waist. Another hour and we can be away!

Leave ‘er be. You’ve plenty o’ time fur that later on, young sir! Old Billy the blacksmith put in, accompanied by a loud guffaw from his apprentice, Matthew Battie.

He was backed up by a chorus of, hear, hear, from the entire group.

Darius bowed neatly in abeyance, laughing as he did so. Sophia responded with a becoming blush and a small curtsey. She glanced around the room where many of the women nodded knowingly. Not Mrs Tilley senior; she was deep in conversation with someone Sophia didn’t yet know. She guessed he must be some distant cousin of Darius’s who had still to be introduced. He certainly had the dark aquiline look of the family’s distaff side.

After the music ceased the couples made their way back to the tables where they consumed much needed drinks. Almost immediately Darius pulled Sophia to her feet.

Come m’dear. There’s someone I’d like you to meet and who I know is dying to meet you.

Darius, may I make a request?

Of course my dear. What is it?

Well, Darius, now that we are married and I am no longer a girl, I should like to be introduced by my full and proper name, that is Sophia Maria Tilley. I spoke of it to my mother and she agrees my proper Christian names are appropriate and go so well with Tilley.

I suppose you’re right. Well, I’ll try to remember but I can’t promise, having always known you simply as Sophia. Darius replied with a half smile thinking his new wife had ideas above her station.

By this time they had reached the table where Sophia had noticed her mother-in-law speaking to the young gentleman. He rose from his chair as they approached.

George! How good to see you!

The two men pumped each other’s hands vigorously

Are you going to introduce me to your good lady, old chap?

Of course. He beamed proudly as he said, This is Soph, er Sophia Maria, my wife of, he paused whilst he consulted his new repeater, a wedding present from his two brothers, two hours, thirteen minutes. Sophia, this my cousin George Ash.

Delighted to meet you. He clasped Sophia’s hand warmly but made no attempt to kiss it.

I was so pleased when Mother told me you were to be back in England in time for the wedding. When did you arrive?

About four hours ago. Well, I arrived in Dover early this morning but the train into Hollyford was slightly delayed.

I heard there was some trouble. Something to do with protesters outside Wellford, I believe.

I would have thought the railway would be beneficial to the townspeople. George was a little out of touch with the latest news.

They’re concerned they’ll lose their homes and livelihoods if the line is extended through the farms thereabouts. The farmers have been selling land at vast profits and most care little for the casual labourer’s fate I’m afraid.

Well, I may rethink my plans for the future after that news, Darius. I must admit I’d thought of selling the land near the old manor house Great Aunt Kate left me but maybe I’ll do the reverse and extend the existing farms. Tell you what, whilst you two are over there during the next few days maybe you could sound the neighbours out. See what they think of all the changes.

Darius frowned slightly. I’ll do what I can old chap but it is our honeymoon you know.

Sophia, who had been gazing round the room wondering when she could reasonably excuse herself, now took heed of what the men were saying.

Does cousin George own the place where we’re to spend our honeymoon, then? she looked from one to the other, impatient for an answer.

Well, it’s a long story but the short answer is, yes, he does.

Sophia was surprised he hadn’t thought to mention it before but was pleased it belonged to someone they knew. She’d been a trifle apprehensive about going to stay in a place which was totally unfamiliar. All she knew was, there was a housekeeper and a woman from the village who did the rough work and a man, the housekeeper’s husband, who took care of the grounds surrounding the house.

Then I shall look forward very much indeed to seeing you there, cousin George, she returned politely.

George’s resulting laughter caused many heads to turn in his direction. I wouldn’t dream of intruding, Sophia, but I shall no doubt see you on your return. I’m staying with Aunt Molly and Uncle Joshua at their house.

So that was what Darius’s mother must have been discussing with him. Her curiosity temporarily satisfied, Sophia excused herself. I shall go and request a dance with my new father-in-law if that’s all right with you gentlemen?

Of course m’dear. I’m sure father will be very flattered.

The two men continued their conversation whilst Sophia made her way across the room. As the musicians had decided to take a much-needed break, Sophia paused on her journey across the room in order to talk to her younger brother.

I bet you wish our Effie were ‘ere today, Soph. She’d a made a lovely bridesmaid wouldn’t she?

Sophia thought of her older sister and was sad for a moment but this was neither the time nor the place for regrets or recriminations. Time enough for them, should the occasion arise sometime in the future. After all, if Effie had still been alive, Sophia would not now be Mrs Tilley. When Darius had wed her sister he’d been very much in love with her.

You’re quite right, Luke, she’d have put me in the shade and no mistake.

Soph, I didn’t mean that. You look a real picture; like a princess.

Thanks Luke, I was just joking. You’ll take good care of mother and the young ones whilst I’m away?

M sit for a while.

Sit over there, in the corner, Sophia, if you please? the puffing clergyman requested. I’ll find us a little light refreshment.

Sophia was more than happy to rest for a while. She had a longish journey ahead and was already beginning to feel a little nervous about her wedding night. She knew Darius was kind in spirit and that he loved her but she couldn’t help feeling a tiny bit apprehensive.

Her father-in-law returned and handed her a glass of ale.

I thought you could do this justice, he smiled.

Sophia nodded. Indeed I could.

Now m’dear, I just want to take this opportunity to welcome you to the family and tell you there are no regrets on the part of myself or Mrs. Tilley. I know we have not been exactly encouraging in the past but if it is God’s will that you and Darius be joined then we must accept that which we cannot change. Don’t you agree?

Sophia didn’t know quite what to make of this somewhat surprising speech. She realised it was both brickbat and bouquet but had to agree with the latter sentiment so she acquiesced gracefully.

Thank you, er, Father-in-law. She couldn’t bring herself to call him Father for he was nothing remotely like the father she had known and loved dearly but was now gone to his maker long since. I shall do my very best to be a good wife to your son, you can be assured of that.

The reverend nodded judiciously, like a wise old owl. I’m sure you will my dear.

Darius, having seen his wife ensnared by his father came to her rescue.

It’s nearly time to leave if we are to be at our accommodation by nightfall. Shall we bid goodbye to our guests, Sophia Maria?

Joshua stood up and clapped his hands loudly looking for all the world as if he was about to deliver the Sunday sermon.

There was an immediate respectful silence.

He smiled, looking towards the newly weds. Will you join me in raising your glasses to the happy couple and wish them ‘good health and blessedness’ for the future? Joshua commanded.

There was a loud cheer as Darius and Sophia made their way to the awaiting carriage. Luke was to drive them to the station where they would board the train for Chartswell Manor, a small seventeenth century manor house very near to the thriving seaside resort of Weygate. The doctor in a moment of generosity had agreed to the loan of his hansom cab with the strict proviso that Luke must return to the village as soon as he had seen the honeymooners safely on to the train.

It was a short ride of little more than a mile to the bright new station to the north of the village but Sophia and Darius welcomed the respite however short.

Chapter 3

The train was in the station getting steam up, as the trio made their way on to the platform. Most people had already boarded but Sophia quickly spotted a vacant seat in the second carriage. She tugged Darius’s arm eagerly. Quickly, Darius. There’s a seat by the window.

Slow down my dear wife. There is a good seven minutes before the train is due to leave. It seems we have arrived in good time after all.

Sophia let go of his arm and turned to Luke. Thank you for bringing us. You will look after everything at home in Eastville, Luke? The family had been at the smallholding for nearly two years and were beginning to show a healthy profit. Jane Price, unable to settle in the place near Stourham which Seth (Effie’s ex-partner) had provided for them, her being country born and bred, had with her own discernment, found a pretty, white painted, thatched cottage together with some sizeable arable land, using her windfall plus the proceeds from the Stourham house, to buy it and stock it.

Luke pecked his sister’s cheek. Yes. You know very well I will. Now don’t you go a-worrying. Just enjoy your honeymoon, Sis.

Darius relieved him of the baggage and the couple made their way on to the train. They were fortunate to find that the seats Sophia had spotted from the platform were in an empty carriage so they both chose a corner seat, Darius preferring his back to the engine. As soon as he had secured the luggage on the rope rack above the seats Sophia hung her head out of the window. Luke was still waiting so she waved and blew him a kiss. Luke held up his hand in acknowledgement then turned to go. He remembered his promise to the reverend and was intent on keeping it. It had been kind of him to let him use the carriage and he didn’t want to disappoint his sister’s new father-in-law by not heeding what he had asked.

In a few short minutes the train was steaming out of the station and the couple on their way to their idyll by the sea. Quite exhausted by this time, Darius took out a book to read whilst Sophia leaned back against the upholstery and closed her eyes.

There were a few short stops where several passengers alighted but no more people boarded the train. When they reached the busy port of Sandy Bay it was time to change trains, for the train they were on would be going on to Bethel Bay, a seaside town of ever growing popularity.

It was a short distance across the wrought iron bridge to the opposite platform and the western line. As before, the train was standing in the station and they were again fortunate to find window seats in an empty carriage. A few moments after they had settled into their seats, a well-dressed middle-aged lady tapped on the door of their carriage. Do you mind if I join you? I do so hate to sit alone in a carriage.

Darius put down his book and stood up. Please madam, do join us, he invited cordially.

She beckoned to a handsome golden-haired child who had suddenly appeared in the doorway. Do hurry Francis. The train will start up again in a moment and we shall be thrown about. A boy of about seven years of age hurried into the carriage and plumped down next to Sophia. She smiled at him and he grinned back.

Fully awake now Sophia felt obliged to make the woman feel welcome especially as she looked agitated and overheated. Are you going to stay in Weygate?

Yes. Francis and I were to join his parents but they have been unavoidably detained.

This is my last holiday before I go to boarding school, the young man informed them all, proudly. Nanny Turner is to take me to see the circus and we shall walk on the beach and I shall make a sandcastle. He was clearly very excited at the prospect of spending a holiday by the sea and didn’t seem to mind that his parents were not with him.

Now, Francis, I think that is quite enough talking. Take out your book and read for a while. We shall soon be at our destination.

The boy did as he was bid and the carriage lapsed once more into silence. The train quickly gathered speed and was soon puffing through the splendours of the lush Wessex countryside. The journey, approximately twenty miles from Sandy Bay, passed through villages and hamlets, farms and green pastures, on its way along the coastal route to Weygate and most passengers, including the newly married couple, found it both pleasant and relaxing. It wasn’t long before the screeching of brakes accompanied by vast amounts of hissing steam announced their arrival at the flourishing resort.

I’ll bid you good day then. Mrs Turner stood up and took hold of her young charge’s hand.

Sophia suddenly realised they had not introduced themselves and instead of waiting for Darius to perform the introductions announced proudly, This is my husband, Mr Darius Tilley and I am Mrs Sophia Maria Tilley.

I’m very pleased to meet you both. I am Edith Turner and this is my charge, The Honourable Francis John Blythe-Jones, third and youngest son of Lord Benedict and Lady Frances Blythe-Jones.

All four in turn shook the other politely by the hand. Perhaps we shall meet again if you are on holiday? Mrs Turner enquired hopefully.

Darius was quick to reply. I think that’s not very likely, Mrs Turner. We shall be staying just outside of Weygate and shall be rather busy.

Sophia stifled a giggle.

Well I shall look out for you just in case, the good lady informed them.

Come, my dear, our carriage awaits and I would like to arrive before dark. Darius took his wife by the arm and led her to the station yard where as good as his word the station wagon was waiting to take them the few miles to Weygate Bay where they could start their honeymoon at last.

They had to pass through the village of Silford, named partly after the stretch of water which lay between the coastline and Pebble-bank and partly because of the overflowing stream which often flooded a small stretch of the High Street near the bridge which led to the mill. Devastated by a severe storm earlier in the century, some new buildings had recently been erected including a new church. A long, narrow, winding lane from the village led them to their destination and as they reached the end of the lane the building, where they were to spend the next seven days, came into view. The imposing manor house, built from local stone, occupied a low promontory and commanded an excellent view across the bay. In the distance, on a day such as this day in high summer, the Isle of Bluesea was clearly visible.

It’s rather grand, Darius! Sophia hadn’t expected the house to be so large.

It is the manor house, my dear, and as I explained to you before, the land surrounding it has been in the family for many generations albeit rather distant from my direct ancestors.

Sophia didn’t remember Darius telling her that vast tracts of land were included in George’s legacy. Does that include the farms we passed on the way here?

Yes, and several to the west. Let’s go in now, Sophia. There’ll be time to start exploring tomorrow.

The housekeeper, as instructed, had prepared a meal for them and had also left some provisions in the larder. The table was beautifully set with gleaming cutlery and pretty gold-rimmed china. Two heavy silver holders with five candles in each stood on the sideboard ready to illuminate the room. The food was placed in covered dishes in the centre of the white damask-clothed table. Much to her relief, all Sophia had to do was change from her outdoor clothes and put on her new evening dress and they could begin their feast.

In the boudoir Sophia lifted out her new dress. Her mother had helped to pack and so carefully had they wrapped the garment there was hardly a crease to be seen. When she was dressed, Sophia looked at her reflection in the cheval mirror, twisting first one way and then the other so she could make sure the deep green velvet dress was perfect from all sides. Happy with the