Anna: Historical Fiction

By T M Goble

Step back in time to eighteenth-century Lichfield, where Anna's fate hangs in the balance. In this captivating work of historical biographical fiction, "Anna" is a standalone book in the "Before They Were Famous" series, transporting readers to a world of societal expectations and unfulfilled dreams.

Anna's life is on the precipice of change as she anxiously awaits her father's visit to the prestigious families of Lichfield, tasked with arranging her marriage. The weight of her future presses heavily upon her as she contemplates the possibility of a loveless union with an older man, one who seeks only an heir. Raised in a strict household, Anna is confined within the shadow of the grand Cathedral, her dreams and desires stifled by convention and tradition.

Despite her obedient nature and a sincere desire to be a dutiful daughter, Anna secretly yearns for a life that mirrors the more liberal world of her friend, who hails from a prosperous merchant's family. Her heart longs for a love that sweeps her off her feet, a love that could be acceptable to her father and society at large.

Amidst the backdrop of Lichfield, where the echoes of history resonate through cobbled streets, an unexpected glimmer of hope emerges. The regiment arrives in town, bringing with it the promise of change and the possibility of a different destiny. Can Anna dare to hope that the right man will enter her life, one who not only captures her heart but also aligns with her father's wishes?

"Anna: Before They Were Famous" is a poignant and evocative tale of love, duty, and the enduring human spirit. Join Anna as she navigates the labyrinth of societal norms and expectations, seeking to find a path that leads to both love and acceptance in a world where dreams can be elusive, but hope never truly fades. This historical novel will transport you to a time when one woman's journey can rewrite the narrative of her own destiny.

• Language: English
• Publisher: The Creative Peak
• Release date: Feb 18, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224429240

Book preview

02

Strolling through the Cathedral’s nave with Abigail at the end of the morning service our footsteps echoed on the stone floor, while in the background the music from the organ resounded through the Cathedral. Daylight streamed in from the doorway encouraging us towards the exit and the world outside. While the sermon this morning had been uplifting, extolling the virtues of loyalty and duty, I was ready for a stroll in the fresh air with my friend. When we stopped on the apron of grass outside, which was surrounded by the majestic houses of the Close, Abigail leaned in close and placed her hand on my arm, ‘Have you heard the news?’ Her voice was hushed but held an edge of excitement, ‘The regiment has returned, they arrived last night.’ A secret glance passed between us. ‘Lichfield will be alive with the red of army uniforms.’

A deep satisfied sigh bubbled up in my throat. With my mouth close to Abigail’s ear to ensure no one overheard as the area was busy, ‘I do like a soldier!’ Images of handsome men in uniform floated around in my head making me shiver with excitement, but in an instant reality resurfaced. Father would never condone such frivolity. Marriage to a soldier would never be permitted unless he was of a senior rank from a well-connected family. Who would he choose for my husband? The question circled in my mind. Pushing all considerations of matrimony aside I refocused my attention on my friend, whose perfect oval face shone with anticipation.

Today Abigail wore a dark red dress adorned with a pearl necklace which complemented her colouring and accentuated her slim waistline. As a great follower of fashion, her hair was set high and well powdered. It wasn’t my preferred style, so my long auburn hair reached my shoulders, which according to my friend was unfashionable. I’d dressed with care this morning anticipating our excursion into town and had chosen a turquoise dress, which was a favorite of mine. The fitted bodice and puffed sleeves added an appealing detail.

Jiggling from foot to foot her hazel eyes glittered with excitement and she squeezed my arm, ‘We have told our fathers we are visiting the town after the service!’ She cocked her head to one side in a knowing gesture. When no one else could see, we giggled.

Raising my eyebrows, I grinned as her enthusiasm was infectious, ‘Perhaps we may meet a red coat on the way, but we may only speak if we have been properly introduced.’

‘There is no other way, as it is how ladies must behave and I will rebuff a stranger. If an unknown man wishes to speak with us,’ she flapped her hand in impatience, ‘we will refer them to our fathers.’

I dipped my head and stared at the ground. Father would reject all who approached. He was a serious, taciturn man who preferred the company of Cathedral associates.

As we left the confines of the Cathedral, I raised my head towards the three spires which stood proudly against a clear blue sky. However, a chill wind blew across Stowe Pool and snow showers were expected before the day’s end. I pulled my bonnet tight and drew in my cloak. Abigail clutched my arm as we headed towards the centre of the town full of eagerness.

Restraining our enthusiasm, we greeted the local people both young and old in a civil and respectful manner. Touching our bonnets to well-dressed strangers, we strolled past Minster Pool pausing to glance towards the Cathedral which dominated the skyline. Then we moved into Dam Street, towards Lichfield centre. As we drew closer to the central area we dodged through the increasing crowd.

Abigail gave a soft tug on my arm as the scarlet uniforms appeared in the distance. ‘Shall we pass through the market?’

Clutching the small parcel in my hand, I nodded in agreement, ‘It would be the quickest way to the house I wish to visit. I have crocheted a small garment for the Curate’s new baby.’

The increase in the number of uniforms caused us to quicken our pace, but with an effort we remained dignified and controlled. Turning into Market Square, the space was busy with people strolling on the sabbath after paying their respects in St Mary’s Church, which dominated the south side of the area. I hesitated as two uniformed officers stood in our path. They bowed. But I remained passive and kept my expression neutral. A conversation was out of the question as the soldiers had not been introduced.

‘Miss Levitt.’ He inclined his head towards Abigail, ‘Captain Robertson at your service. If I might be permitted to address you in the street as we have been formally introduced when I met your father.’

Abigail dipped her head, ‘Yes, Captain.’

‘May I introduce my regimental colleague, Captain Temple.’

Abigail responded with a nod, ‘This is my lifelong friend, Miss Anna Seward.’

With the introductions complete Captain Temple opened his hand, ‘May we accompany you to your destination?’ Abigail had completed the accepted formality of introductions, so I would be content to walk with the soldiers, although I suspected my father would disagree.

Abigail and I, with our handsome escorts, strolled at a slow pace along Market Street as neither of us wished to reach our destination. The eagerness of the hurried walk from the Cathedral had dissipated so we dawdled and stopped at any excuse, such as a bonnet ribbon to re-tie or a shop window display that caught our attention. Captain Temple strolled along side me. A tall, slim, able-bodied man, he had short blonde hair that curled from under his regimental cap. His eyes were blue and alert and his complexion robust which pleased me. His colleague, Captain Robertson had engaged Abigail in conversation.

Captain Temple took time to speak but it did not concern me, although I would never begin a conversation. ‘I am familiar with the name of Seward.’ I nodded in acknowledgment. My uncle, who lives in Lichfield, has talked of a man of letters, Thomas Seward, a Canon at the Cathedral.’

His words lifted my spirits and with intense delight accompanied by a smile of acknowledgment I glanced across at his handsome face, ‘I am proud to say he is my father.’

‘Then I hope I may meet him someday soon. I shall ask Mr Levitt, your companion’s father, who I have had the honour of meeting, to introduce me.’

‘My father would be proud to invite a member of the local regiment to his house.’ Was that the truth or was I being polite? Father was a strict man and had firm views about who would be allowed to cross the threshold of his home. Without further comments we ambled on a little further. As he had been introduced and initiated a conversation, I would be brave and ask him a question. ‘Will the regiment remain in Lichfield?’

With a slight sigh his expression became serious, ‘There are rumours we will be deployed in the King’s name to London with immediate effect. Although we do expect to return to barracks on a regular basis.’

Captain Temple appeared uncertain of his next words, so I filled the gap in the conversation. ‘I have never been to London.’

‘It is a fine city with many attractions for ladies. It would be my delight to show you the more famous aspects of our capital city when you visit.’

‘Thank you, Captain, I shall remember your offer.’

My spirits soared as we strolled along the street. To be in the company of a handsome man was so exhilarating and I didn’t want to reach our destination. When we finally arrived at the house, the officers, with a courteous bow took their leave.

03

I tentatively knocked on the door of the shabby building squeezed between business premises. The door creaked open. A young girl with a dirty face and ragged clothes stood staring at us. Judging by the expression of surprise that covered her features I was not the person she had expected. She pushed her straggly hair away from her face and gave a staggered curtsey.

‘I have come to visit the Curate’s wife, Mrs Cuthbert.’

‘Yes, my lady.’ With an alarming wobble she attempted another curtsey. From my observation she needed more practice, but I hid the amusement which threatened to appear on my lips. ‘There,’ she pointed to the first door along the hall.

‘Thank you.’ With slow care we stepped inside the grubby, gloomy passage. The atmosphere gave me no concern. Duties to help in charitable causes had led me to dire places. My father insisted, when visiting the most degenerate places, that I take a man as a safeguard. The irony of today’s visit to a poor residence intrigued me as my escort, arranged by my father, was often Curate Cuthbert. Today I was visiting his dwelling place.

‘I have a concern.’ Abigail’s higher weak voice showed no familiarity with these surroundings.

‘Have no fear, Abigail. You are among friends. Curate Cuthbert is a man who has pulled himself from the lowest depths. At the Cathedral, he has proven to be a reliable and trustworthy man of God.

Touching my friend’s hand, ‘Pray for his wife and their newly born.’

‘I will, with all my heart for any poor wretch who must live in this building.’

The door designated by the young girl, slipped open a fraction. ‘Mistress Seward.’ The unkempt man’s eyes widened. ‘I did not know you would visit, so our room is not ready to receive your personage.’

‘Curate Cuthbert, you have accompanied me to many households and know that I expect no special privilege. My great joy would be to meet your wife and newborn child.’

Trembling he opened the door to their single family room. ‘Please enter.’ He hung his head and studied the floor. As the woman clutching the new born baby attempted to stand, she winced in discomfort.

‘Stay, my dear Mrs Cuthbert and present me your baby.’

Abigail had kept in touching distance of me, but the sight of the baby brought a sigh to her lips. ‘May I hold her?’ The pale woman handed her the new born and rested back on the bed. The desperate nature of the room did not surprise me. The bed was a jumble of grubby looking sheets and the whole area was thick with dust. It was not the best of environments for a newborn baby.

‘Curate.’ He bowed. ‘The water jug appears rancid. Fetch fresh from the well in the square, I will sit with your wife while you are absent.’ Abigail had forgotten her surroundings and stood in the middle of the small room rocking the baby in her arms.

Moving closer I held out the package, ‘This is a small gift for the newly born of the Cathedral.’ Abigail’s eyes opened wide at the contrast between the new crocheted baby clothes and the poor rags wrapped around the child.

The mother’s dull eyes nodded in acknowledgment, ‘Jack is a wonderful husband to me.’

I nodded but was concerned about the health of the woman, ‘He is a kind, God fearing man. When was the baby born?’

‘Three days ago, ma’am.’

‘You struggled to stand when I arrived.’ She focused on her baby. ‘I will ask Dr Darwin to visit.’

‘No, ma’am. Please. He is an honorable man, but we cannot afford his fees.’

‘Welcome him to your house, he will make no charge but tell me you will follow his instructions.’

‘Yes ma’am, of course, I promise.’

04

I chose a route along Bird Street to return to Cathedral Close as I wished to talk to Abigail without being overheard. Turning along the back road the crowds dissipated. I gathered my thoughts about the best way to approach the subject on my mind as I needed my friend’s help.

Her voice jolted me back to the present. ‘Captain Temple took a liking to you.’

‘He is a fine and handsome officer.’ I glanced at my friend, ‘You liked Captain Robertson.’

Abigail giggled, ‘It’s the first time I’ve spoken to him although I was introduced at an autumn town ball, but he has promised to call at the house.’

‘What will your father say?’

‘He wishes to know when a young man might call and whether I wish to meet him again. I shall inform him that Captain Robertson will call with my approval. He will invite him to an evening social event.’

‘What happens if one is not planned.’

Abigail laughed, ‘Father decides, then and there, that we shall have one.’

‘I wish my father behaved the same as yours as he tells anyone who calls, that I am not available.’

‘Oh! Poor Anna, it must be so difficult for you.’

A galloping horse ridden by a gentleman came towards us so we stepped into a door way to avoid the splashes of mud. I remained troubled by my early morning reflections of matrimony but perhaps Abigail could offer me hope. Meeting at social occasions organised by our parents was a step forward but where would it end? Abigail would treat me with sympathy as she had met my father on several occasions. I would be brave and ask a direct question, ‘Has your father given you hints about marriage?’

‘He considers me a young lady with no rush to be married.’

‘I wish my father would think the same, but he seems intent on finding me a husband.’

‘Perhaps he will be unsuccessful.’

Could I contrive to prompt a favourable outcome rather than waiting to see what sort of husband was found for me by my father? ‘Will you help me?’

We stood to the side on the pavement as a coach and four approached. The livery on the driver and footmen I recognised from an important family in town. Giving ourselves room from the mud splashed from the horses and wheels we dropped a small curtsey although we could not see the occupants.

Abigail gripped my arm firmly as we proceeded at a slow pace along Bird Street.

‘What do you wish of me? To find you a husband?’ She laughed.

‘Almost!’ I stopped. Her face appeared quizzical, but a shimmer of amusement lurked. ‘Could you ask your father to arrange a meeting and introduce Captain Temple to my household?’

‘I see! You wish to find a husband before the choice is made for you.’

‘I would not like my father to choose my husband. Captain Temple is good looking although I know little about him.’

Abigail rested her finger on her forehead. As I had known her for a long time, the movement indicated she was thinking. ‘Perhaps if my father could encourage the Canon to join more social occasions then you would have a wider choice and more formal introductions. But we will try for Captain Temple first.’

‘My father respects Mr Levitt. He wouldn’t offend him by dismissing an introduction.’

Abigail leaned close, ‘Let us hope our ploy will be successful. I will speak with him this evening.’ We passed Dr Darwin’s residence and paraded arm in arm as we rejoined the families enjoying the crisp winter air. As we had regained a more crowded area, our secret conversations ceased. We held our heads high and touched our bonnets to those we knew.

Approaching my home, a coach and horses waited outside, ‘Your father has left his coach for you.’

On the sight of Abigail, the driver and footmen ceased their chatting. The driver climbed into position and a footman opened the door and pulled down the small steps with a bow.

Taking her leave of me, she whispered, ‘I will do my best to aid Captain Temple’s introduction.’

05

With a contented expression, that my friend would help, I strode towards the front door which was opened by William. I stopped with a surprised expression as father stood with his hands on his hips in the entrance hall.

‘There you are at last.’ His voice was sharp, and he peered at me through narrowed eyes while an annoyed frown tugged at his lips.

‘Good afternoon, father.’ I curtseyed and ignored his usual impatience. After all these years I was used to his moods.

‘Come into the drawing room, I wish to speak with you.’ He patted the small wig he wore as he entered the room and strode to the fireplace where he stood with his back to the fire. A tall, upright man, approaching his mid-fifties, he habitually dressed in black, but I sensed importance, as today his clothes appeared fresh. ‘Sit down!’ He flapped a hand towards the seat with an air of irritation.

I perched on the chaise longue. On a small side table, a bag contained my current embroidery. Next to it, a copy of Alexander Pope’s, ‘Eloisa and Abelard.’ I would have preferred to read, as it was such an intriguing and romantic verse, but took up my embroidery bag and gathered its contents into my lap.

‘Are you fiddling with that?’

‘No, father. You requested I spend more time on needlework, rather than reading. I can listen to you as I start.’

‘You are at the age...’

‘Father, I am twenty-one as you know.’

‘Don’t interrupt!’ I didn’t respond but kept my expression serious and focused on my work. ‘You have a substantial dowry.’ I stared at my needlework while my stomach twisted into a tight knot. My morning premonitions of the day would be fulfilled. With a silent intake of breath, I composed my features to ensure they showed no visible sign of the mental anguish which swirled within me. ‘I wish to find you a husband.’

With unnecessary precision I set down my needlework and studied him. His dour expression gave me no hint of what was to come. He gazed towards the light afternoon snow falling outside the window. I waited. His head spun around, ‘Why do you not answer me?’

I engaged his eyes, ‘I’m sorry father, I did not realise you had asked me a question.’

‘Pshaw! You always try to be too clever with words.’

I blinked in a desperate attempt to clear my whirling mind, ‘You speak of marriage, father.’

‘Yes, you need a suitable husband. As you are my eldest daughter, it is right and proper that you are the first to wed.’

‘Yes, father. Am I allowed an opinion on the matter?’

He glowered with disapproval and stared at the fire. ‘William!’ His intensity made me jump. Instantly, the drawing room door opened. ‘The fire needs attention.’ I glanced away amused by the distraction to our conversation.

‘Yes, sir.’ The servant took two logs from the basket at the side of the fireplace and placed them in the centre of the roaring fire. The servant carefully waited, father flicked his hand at him in a gesture of dismissal. ‘Thank you, sir.’ He bowed and withdrew.

‘It is important that we make a suitable match for you. I would want a respectable family, preferably from our own Lichfield, that can hold its head high, both in the town and in the Cathedral.’

‘Yes, father that is important.’

‘I’m glad we agree.’

‘On many points, I am sure we totally agree.’

‘What do you mean?’ He squinted at me with a mixture of anger and impatience while his fingers tapped an irritated rhythm on the edge of the mantlepiece.

‘Father, I mean exactly what I say.’

He gave me a withering stare and huffed out a short sharp breath, ‘Do you think there might be points where you would disagree with my judgement?’

‘No father, definitely not.’

‘Then what do you mean? You are the most obtuse girl at times.’

‘Do you expect to meet with a suitable family and conclude my marriage with the head of the house.’

‘Yes.’

This conversation was becoming difficult with every word and gesture my father made. I did not want him to choose a husband for me. My future happiness was at stake. Above all else I wanted my marriage to be filled with love and contentment, with a man I had chosen. How could I persuade him to my way of thinking? It would be an uphill battle, but it was important to try. Taking a deep breath, ‘Father, the spring in Lichfield is known for its number of balls and other gatherings.’

‘What relevance is that to my current instruction for you.’

‘What will happen if...’

‘Theoretical nonsense, Anna! I’m not interested in a young woman’s halcyon deliberations.’

‘It is possible that at one of these balls, I could meet a man.’

‘Anna!’ he raised his voice and flapped his hand to indicate that he disagreed with my views.

Despite his irritation I wouldn’t be deterred. The outcome was too important. ‘The man would be from a prestigious family.’

‘If they were from Lichfield, I would know them.’

‘Yes, father, you would. But what if they were further away in the county. Not too far. Might I suggest Ashbourne.’

‘Do you know a family from Ashbourne?’ Frustration and irritation were wrapped up in his sharp words.

‘No, father.’

‘Then stop all this ridiculous conjecturing.’ He glared with ill-concealed exasperation, ‘You will marry who I determine.’

Keeping my disappointment and frustration under control was difficult. From experience there was no point in trying to put forward my views as it would only exacerbate the situation. With a calmness I didn’t possess I responded meekly, ‘Yes, father.’ A small knot appeared in my embroidery. I studied it with ardent concentration. To my relief, father stormed out and slammed the door.

I listened intently. The second door slammed and I breathed a sigh of relief. He had retired to his study. He would not emerge for hours. A few tears filled my eyes from the intense altercation, but a small grin tweaked at my lips. The most important point was that so far he hadn’t found me a husband. I would write to Emma to tell her the good news and about Captain Temple.

06

I had tidied my needlework, when the door burst open and in rushed Sarah, with young Honora. ‘Has father told you who you will marry?’

‘This is so exciting!’ Honora gripped my hand and bubbled with anticipation.

I laughed because of their enthusiasm. ‘No. Father is still searching for a husband, but so far he hasn’t found anyone.’

Honora had dreamy eyes, ‘When he does, I hope he is handsome.’

‘Honora, every man has to be handsome or you dislike them. Many men who are not good looking would make excellent husbands.’

‘I wouldn’t marry anyone who wasn’t handsome.’

‘I hope father finds you a husband soon.’ Sarah gazed at the blazing fire.

‘Do you want me to leave the house?’

‘No, my darling sister. If father finds someone for you, then I will be next. I dream of being married.’ Her eyes glazed as she gave a big sigh.

I smiled with affection. Sarah had a much slighter frame than I. The beauty within her blue eyes shone in a smooth, almost perfect face, but she lacked a healthy complexion.

Honora’s enthusiasm had subsided as she sat back in a chair. In complexion and size, she could have been Sarah’s sister, as they had a similarity, despite an age barrier of six years. The sharp, clear eyes missed nothing. Both young women day dreamed with glazed expressions. Sarah would think of marriage, whilst Honora’s mind would drift around handsome men.

I leaned forward, ‘I’ve a secret and it’s about a man.’ The glaze disappeared. They rushed across the room and sat on either side of me. Wriggling to make themselves comfortable they tucked in close.