Passing as Elias

chapter Three

The will of Professor de Bard

In the days that followed the coroner revealed to Elizabeth that Professor de Bard had died from poisoning. He told her that there had been no marks upon his body, nor was there any evidence to suggest a struggle of any kind.

‘This,’ He had said, ‘Indicates that Bernard de Bard was not murdered, but did in fact take his own life.’

‘No.’ Elizabeth had said firmly, ‘He would not have taken his own life. It was an accident. He … he liked to experiment.’

‘The paperwork found in his home suggests that he was working on some kind of antidote, though we are having some trouble figuring out his methods and calculations. Do you know anything about this?’

‘The Professor worked on many things, and did not reveal all of them to me, Sir. Though he liked to document his remedies and the effects they produced.’

‘You were his assistant, yes?’ The coroner had enquired.

‘Professor de Bard was my teacher. I was his apprentice.’

‘Women are not to dispense medicine.’ The coroner noted, ‘Surely you must know that.’ The coroner had said shrewdly.

Thinking back upon this conversation angered Elizabeth to a great extent.

~

Elizabeth did not get out of bed for two days. She did not wash, and only ate what her mother forced her to. The parish of the local church stopped by on Tuesday morning to tell Elizabeth’s mother that a burial had been arranged to commemorate Professor de Bard’s contributions to medicine. When Professor de Bard’s former apprentices heard of his death, many of them travelled back to the town to pay their respects. As Professor de Bard had no family, Elizabeth was unsure as to what would happen to his apothecary. No one had sought to collect the key from Elizabeth, which she was now keeping under her pillow.

Captain Greenwood had dropped by to bestow his sympathies upon Elizabeth, however she had refused to receive him. Once he had left, her mother had brought an extremely large bouquet of lilies to her bedside table. A small card was hidden amongst the flowers, which her mother read to her.

‘Captain Greenwood wishes to escort you to the funeral.’ Her mother said in a light voice.

Elizabeth did not respond and simply lay there sprawled on the bed, her hair a horrid mess, the sheets twisted around her ankles.

‘He said he will come by on the morrow to find out your response. Sweetheart, I think you should accept. He is awfully worried about you.’

‘I am sure he would enjoy being the shoulder I cry upon.’ Elizabeth said in a muffled voice, for half of her face was concealed by the pillow, ‘You can tell him that I shall accept his proposal.’

On the day of the funeral Elizabeth felt like she were in a kind of trans, looking out at the world as though behind a pane of glass. She dressed silently in her only black dress, brushed the knots from her tangled hair and sat upon her bed, waiting for the moment Captain Greenwood would knock upon the front door. On cue, as expected, there was a rap at the door downstairs, followed by the sound of her mother greeting the captain solemnly.

Their voices carried upstairs and Elizabeth caught a few snippets of what they were saying.

‘Good Morning, Captain.’ Her mother said in a soft voice.

‘Good Morning, Missus Searson. I trust you are in good health?’ The Captain spoke in hushed tones, as though he were in the house of a dying relative.

‘As well as I can be.’

‘How is Elizabeth?’

Her mother sighed, ‘Not well I fear. She has eaten naught for three days, Captain, and has barely spoken a word.’

Elizabeth crept to her door to listen to the hushed conversation that was taking place downstairs.

‘I imagine they were very close.’ Captain Greenwood was saying.

‘Oh yes. Elizabeth began working at the apothecary not long after her father died. I expect Bernard was a kind of substitute father in a way. She spent six days a week with him for three years.’

‘She has suffered a terrible loss.’ George Greenwood said softly.

‘Indeed. I believe she is almost ready, Captain. I shall go and fetch her.’

Elizabeth heard her mother’s footsteps upon the stairs, and she hurriedly backed away from the door so she would not be discovered eavesdropping. She busied herself in front of the mirror as her mother entered the room silently.

‘He has arrived. Are you almost ready?’

Elizabeth did not turn around, but nodded, ‘I will be downstairs in a minute.’

Her mother left with a small smile.

Elizabeth waited a few minutes before she could not put off going downstairs any longer. She turned from her pale, gaunt reflection in disgust. She had acquired large shadows under her eyes from crying on and off over the last few days. As Elizabeth swept downstairs she found Captain Greenwood and her mother in the sitting room. The Captain was sipping a cup of tea politely, but jumped to his feet when Elizabeth entered, slopping tea down his front. She pretended not to notice this, and gave him a small curtsey, looking at the floor. As she did this her mother exited into the kitchen in order to give them some privacy.

‘Miss Searson.’ Captain Greenwood put his half empty saucer upon the table, and wiped hurriedly at the damp mark upon his vest, ‘My deepest sympathies for your loss.’ He crossed the room and stood before her in three short strides.

‘Thank you for your kind words.’ Elizabeth nodded, ‘And thank you for the lilies.’

Captain Greenwood seemed to be fumbling with something in his pocket. He pulled out a small brown package tied with red string.

‘I do apologise, I had no time to wrap it.’ He said, handing the light package to Elizabeth.

‘You have … bought me something?’ She enquired in a shaking voice, feeling quite emotionally unstable.

‘It is nothing.’ He waved it aside, though Elizabeth could see that he was extremely nervous.

Elizabeth untied the package with shaking hands, and let the wrappings fall open to reveal a pair of petite, silk gloves that seemed to shine brightly in light pouring in through the sitting room window. Elizabeth touched them with her fingertips. The white silk was as soft as a gentle breeze.

‘They are lovely.’ She said gazing at them.

‘I thought … white … to represent purity.’ He explained hurriedly, ‘I thought you could wear them to the funeral.’

Elizabeth looked up at him, ‘Thank you.’

Captain Greenwood reached out a hand and took the package from Elizabeth and placed it upon the mantelpiece. Ever so gently he took one of her hands and straightened out her fingers with the ball of his palm. His skin was hot, and Elizabeth felt an absurd quiver somewhere below her abdomen. Taking one of the gloves, Captain Greenwood proceeded to slip the silky material over Elizabeth’s fingers and gently pull it towards her wrist. He took great care in fitting each finger precisely in the gloves, and allowed his hands to linger in hers, massaging them gently with his thumb. Once both gloves were on, he let go of her hands, and smiled at her.

‘How do they feel?’ He whispered.

Elizabeth’s mouth felt dry, and she had a strange sensation occurring in the pit of her stomach. The way he had touched her hands so gently had sent shivers right through her spine.

‘They are perfect.’ She smiled and turned her hands this way and that to admire the gloves.

‘I am glad you like them, and at the same time I am very sorry about the occasion for which they are being used for.’

Elizabeth’s throat felt tight, and she swallowed hard. She did not wish to cry in front of Captain Greenwood for she had tried so hard to maintain the image of being a strong and independent woman. However, in this position she felt extremely weak and vulnerable.

‘Shall we proceed?’ He asked, holding out an arm for Elizabeth to take.

‘Yes, of course.’ Elizabeth said, her chest tight.

Traditionally, funerals would take place within the deceased home, with the coffin being carried from the house to the site of the burial by horse and cart. This had been the case with Elizabeth’s father. However, as Professor de Bard had no family to organise his funeral, it was taking place in the church, and would be a public affair.

Captain Greenwood had arranged a carriage to take them to the funeral, something Elizabeth was grateful for, as she did not much feel like walking. Once they had arrived, he opened the carriage door for her, and took her hand to assist her down the step.

As they walked through the church doors, Elizabeth was vaguely aware that Captain Greenwood’s plans of courting Elizabeth seemed to be working. She felt quite safe as she walked with him, and enjoyed very much the way his hand hovered upon the small of her back in a reassuring manner.

The funeral passed in a haze of meaningless words. Men spoke of the Professor, and his achievements, yet no one really seemed to know the man personally. This made Elizabeth sad, and she wondered if the Professor had ever been lonely. To her knowledge he had never even been married.

After the funeral Elizabeth congregated outside with other attendants as they talked about the ceremony and various other events of the day. Elizabeth did not feel like conversing with people who would pretend to have known him as well as she did. Captain Greenwood remained by her side like a loyal dog, up until the moment when a tall, thin man in a very expensive suit came up to Elizabeth.

‘Are you Miss Elizabeth Searson?’ The stranger enquired.

‘Yes.’ Elizabeth said rather startled by the man’s sudden appearance.

‘My name is Charles Smith,’ He handed her a card upon which his name was written, along with some other personal details, ‘I was wondering if I might have a moment of your time?’

At her side, Captain Greenwood became suddenly stiff and eyed Charles Smith suspiciously.

‘It is regarding Professor de Bard, Miss Searson, so a private word would be appreciated. If you might find the time to come by my office – it is only a five minute carriage ride away-’

‘As Miss Searson’s chaperone-’ Captain Greenwood began loudly.

‘It is quite all right, Captain Greenwood.’ Elizabeth said in an undertone, ‘What time do you propose we meet?’

‘I am free now, Miss Searson, and my carriage awaits.’ He pointed down the road where a carriage was waiting for him.

Elizabeth was thoroughly confused as so why this man would want to talk to her about the Professor, but she did not see the harm in visiting his office.

Looking down at Charles Smith’s card, she found that he was a lawyer, and the office in which they would be conversing was an attorney’s study. The card stated that Charles Smith specialised in Estate Planning and the writing of Wills.

Captain Greenwood seemed thoroughly annoyed that his time with Elizabeth was being cut short.

‘Is this a good idea, Miss Elizabeth?’ He muttered to her in a voice too low for Charles Smith to hear, ‘I think I should come with you.’

‘I think it will be quite all right, Captain.’ Elizabeth assured him testily.

Elizabeth allowed herself to be steered in the direction of the carriage by Charles Smith, and before she knew it she was trundling down the road towards the centre of the town. The journey lasted no longer than a few minutes, and they stopped outside of a rather magnificent building. Elizabeth shielded her eyes against the bright sunlight as she looked up at the tall courthouse.

She felt extremely nervous, and underdressed as Charles led her inside the building. The entrance hall was large, with enormous marble columns leading to a high ceiling. Charles Smith led her through the courthouse, passing several doors and people who bustled about importantly. Finally he stopped at a door which had his name engraved on a gold plate upon it. Opening it, Elizabeth stepped inside and found herself in a handsome room lined with packed bookshelves, and a deep mahogany desk.

‘Please sit down.’ Charles Smith said offering Elizabeth a seat, which she took.

‘What is this all about, Mister Smith?’ Elizabeth asked as Charles took a seat opposite her.

Folding his hands upon the desk and clearing his throat loudly, Charles looked at Elizabeth closely.

‘Let us get straight down to business. Miss Searson, I am a lawyer. Two weeks before Professor de Bard’s death he sought me out in order to make a few unusual changes to his will. Were you aware that Bernard de Bard had recently changed his will?’

‘Of course not. I do not think he would have shared such personal matters with me.’

‘Are you saying that you and Professor de Bard were not close then?’ Charles enquired.

‘We were close.’ Elizabeth frowned, ‘He was my employer, my teacher, and my friend.’

‘You were his assistant, were you not?’ Charles pulled out a folded sheet of parchment from a drawer in his desk.

Elizabeth cleared her throat nervously, ‘Apprentice.’ She corrected.

‘Professor de Bard has had many apprentices over the years.’ The lawyer noted, ‘Were you aware of that?’

‘Yes, Sir, of course.’

‘Forgive me for the questions, Miss Searson, but I am having some difficulty in understanding the changes Professor de Bard made to his will.’

Elizabeth did not speak, but waited for Charles Smith to continue.

‘Professor de Bard does not mention any former apprentices in his will. You are the only person he names specifically.’

‘He … he named me in his will?’ Elizabeth said, wide eyed.

‘You were unaware of this?’

‘Of course.’

Charles Smith cleared his throat and shook open the piece of parchment in his hand. He began to read aloud; ‘In the name of God, I Bernard Fredrik de Bard do acknowledge and establish that this is my Last Will and Testament.’ His eyes scanned down the page as he searched for Elizabeth’s name, ‘Aha, here we go. To my dearest friend, and brightest apprentice, Elizabeth Mary Searson I do bequeath my home in its entirety, including all possessions within, in addition to the apothecary located at 7 Eastmoreland place in the hope that she finds the independence she so desires.’

Elizabeth gaped at Charles Smith, ‘He … he left me everything?’ She gasped.

‘Almost.’ Charles held up a finger to silence her, ‘Professor de Bard owned a small plot of land to the north, which he has donated to the church. He has also donated his monetary savings in their entirety to medical research. However, Miss Searson, there is one small problem we face in regards to your inheritance.’

Elizabeth knew exactly what Charles Smith would say before the words had even left his mouth.

‘You are under the age of twenty-one, are you not?’

‘Yes, Sir, I am.’ Elizabeth clenched her teeth together.

‘You are not married, are you Miss Searson?’ Charles said.

‘No.’

‘Your father is deceased, am I correct?’

‘Yes.’

‘You do not have any brothers, do you Miss Searson?’

‘Well … a half brother from my father’s first marriage, but I have never met him, and we do not know where he is. I do not even know his name.’

‘Well then, this makes things quite simple.’ Charles said folding the parchment in his hands, and pocketing it, ‘as a woman you have no rights to land ownership. The two properties that Professor de Bard has mentioned in his will shall not become yours until you have married, and your husband can sign for them.’

Elizabeth stood quickly, the chair falling to the floor with a clatter, ‘That is … that is …’ She could not find the words to describe her outrage.

‘That is the law, Miss Searson. Your husband must be the one to sign the deeds.’

Elizabeth was breathing hard through her nostrils, anger coursing through her veins like fire.

‘Good day, Mister Smith.’ Elizabeth said in a shaking voice, before turning on her heel and sweeping from the room.

Elizabeth marched angrily through marble building. The people in the corridor stared at her as she passed. Her mind reeled with horrible thoughts as she stepped through the courthouse doors and into the sunlight. She did not even notice as she passed Captain Greenwood at the doors.

‘Miss Searson!’ He did a double take, ‘Elizabeth!’ He jogged up to her and caught her in only a few strides.

‘Leave me be, Captain.’ Elizabeth said through gritted teeth, ‘I am going home.’

She did not care that George Greenwood had followed her all the way into the middle of the town, or that he had waited for her to emerge from her meeting with Charles Smith. She was filled with a rage that she had never known before. The Captain followed Elizabeth as she marched up the street, cursing at anyone who got in her way.

‘Please, Miss Searson. Let me help. What happened?’

‘What happened, Captain Greenwood, is injustice to women.’

‘What did he say?’ He said sharply.

Elizabeth thrust Charles Smith’s card into Captain Greenwood’s hand. He read it and frowned, ‘Is it about Bernard de Bards will?’

‘Apparently they want to spit upon the memory of Professor de Bard by refusing to comply with the wishes stated in his will.’ Elizabeth said shrilly.

Captain Greenwood seemed thoroughly confused, ‘What conditions?’

Elizabeth slowed down and eventually stopped walking. Panting, she turned to Captain Greenwood, anger blazing in her green eyes. He looked positively frightened at the expression upon her face.

‘Professor de Bard left me his house, and the apothecary.’ Elizabeth breathed, ‘However according to law I can not possibly take ownership of his properties, as he so wished-’

‘-Until you are married.’ Captain Greenwood finished for her.

Elizabeth closed her eyes and breathed heavily through flared nostrils, ‘So you understand.’

‘More than you can imagine.’ The Captain took her gloved hand and squeezed gently.

Captain Greenwood took Elizabeth home in his carriage, looking furtively at her out of the corner of his eye every few minutes to ensure that she would not have another fit of rage. She did not speak at all during the ride home, though she thanked the Captain for his generosity in seeing her home. As she stepped from the carriage, he looked as though he wanted to say something to her, though had decided against it.

Once upon her doorstep, he took her hand once again and looked deeply into her face, ‘Miss Searson,’ He said, screwing up his eyes in what appeared to be painful concentration, ‘I realise that my advances have been quite clumsy. Things always tend to go wrong when we try to spend time together, mostly because I have a habit of saying the wrong things, but I do want you to understand how deeply I care for you. I have thought of no one else since the time I met you over one year ago.’

Elizabeth did not care to respond. She was still upset and angry about her encounter with Charles Smith.

Captain Greenwood continued, ‘I was away at sea for months at a time, and not prepared to put my career on hold for a woman.’ He admitted, ‘But I feel differently now.’

Elizabeth avoided his gaze. A sudden thought occured to her. If Captain Greenwood wished to become her husband, then she would be able to fulfil Professor de Bard’s last wishes, and continue running the apothecary on his behalf. However, since Elizabeth had already confessed her dilemma to him, he was sure to be suspicious if her attitude towards marriage suddenly changed. Never mind the fact that she would not be very comfortable with deceiving Captain Greenwood, for he was a good and honest man. Though, might she allow herself to fall for him? Could affection be forced in desperate situations? Elizabeth was not sure, but all of a sudden she found herself desperately wishing for Captain Greenwoods Courtship to be successful. She did not know if it was the right thing to do, she decided that she would do whatever it took to take possession of the Professor’s properties, for it was what he had wished.

‘Would you like to come inside for a cup of tea?’ Elizabeth said suddenly, hardly believing her own ears.

Captain Greenwood looked as though he would like nothing more than to spend more time alone together, however, ‘Would you not find it inappropriate to be together within your dwellings without a parent?’

Elizabeth considered this for a moment, frowning, ‘Captain … you are a gentleman. I am just a common girl. You may find my ways and habits different to yours. I see no problem with you entering my home.’

‘Do you not worry what the neighbours might say?’

‘I do not care what anyone says.’

With a nod, Captain Greenwood allowed himself to be steered inside of Elizabeth’s home. She knew her mother would not be home for several hours on this Thursday afternoon, for it was the time she spent with her oldest friends every week.

Elizabeth was slightly embarrassed by her shabby living quarters, though the Captain made no comment about its general state of disrepair. She sat him down upon a chair, and brought him a cup of tea. Her mother had always said that you should offer guests tea, not that they ever had many guests. They sat in awkward silence for many minutes, sipping their cups of tea through pursed lips, and making glances up at one another every now and then. Elizabeth wondered vaguely how he had ever found her interesting.

‘I find myself utterly intimidated by your presence.’ He said suddenly.

‘I beg your pardon?’

‘I am worried I might say, or do something wrong.’

‘Are you worried you might anger me again?’ Elizabeth could not help but smile.

‘I have so many thoughts running through my head.’ He gave a nervous laugh, ‘Things I want to say, want to do.’ He trailed off.

Elizabeth felt a knot form in her stomach. She did not think she would ever fall in love with the Captain, however, she did find him quite attractive. A long repressed, rebellious voice in her brain suggested that she take advantage of the time they had alone. Would he kiss her if she asked? Would he hold her waist? She pushed these thoughts aside, and scolded herself mentally for being so inappropriate. Yes, she had known the Captain for over a year, but these encounters had been preceded by long gaps while he was at sea, and most of their conversations had taken place in the apothecary. Was she really willing to seduce and trick a man into marrying her so she could fulfil the Professor’s wishes?

‘Like what things?’ She asked after another minute’s silence.

The Captain paused with the teacup to his lips, and lowered it again slowly, ‘Well … I will admit that I have thought about moments like these for a long while.’

Elizabeth raised her eyebrows, ‘About us?’

‘Indeed.’ He gave an embarrassed smile, ‘I was smitten as soon as I met you.’

‘Do you think we are compatible, Captain?’ Elizabeth said quickly.

‘I should hope so.’ He said, taking another sip of tea and setting the cup and saucer down upon the side table.

‘What is it that makes two people compatible?’ Elizabeth asked.

Captain Greenwood took a deep breath, ‘Well, I suppose one must have values similar to that of their partner. I believe … forgive me, sexual attraction plays a rather large role.’

‘Lust?’ Elizabeth asked.

‘Mmh.’ The Captain nodded, ‘There must be some level of attraction in order for things to work. Apart from that, mutual trust and understanding.’

‘Many marriages fail, Captain. Do you think people can become incompatible over time?’

‘Mayhap.’ He gave a shrug, and Elizabeth found herself leaning rather close to him.

‘How can you tell when you have found the one?’

The Captain laughed, ‘I suppose no one knows. Do you not believe in love, Miss Searson? Your questions intrigue me. It is as though you do not believe in soul mates.’

‘I cannot believe in something I have never experienced.’ She said plainly.

Captain Greenwood had no response to this, though Elizabeth had had a sudden idea.

‘Shall I make you an offer Captain?’

‘What do you mean?’ He asked wearily.

‘I do not know what love, or lust feels like.’ Elizabeth admitted, licking her lips nervously. If she could seduce the Captain, he might propose within the month. ‘I propose a test.’

‘A test?’ The Captain frowned, ‘Miss Searson, please … you are talking of courtship as though it is some experiment you are concocting in your laboratory. These things take time. You are thinking too logically regarding matters of the heart.’

‘You do not wish to hear of the test?’ Elizabeth put a hand to the Captain’s knee gently, with an innocent smile.

‘Amuse me.’ Captain Greenwood sighed, with a small smile upon his face, ‘Please tell me how you plan to conduct an experiment regarding matters of our compatibility. As far as I was aware, courting was the act of a couple getting to know one another in order to decide whether an engagement should follow. Would courtship not be a sufficient experiment?’

‘I find that path rather lengthy.’ Elizabeth smiled, ‘Kiss me, Captain. We shall see instantly whether this arrangement shall work or not.’ She did not know what had come over her. Was this how you seduced a man? She was not sure.

Captain Greenwood gaped at her, ‘I cannot.’ He shook his head and stood.

Elizabeth tried a different tact, ‘Do you not want to?’ She asked crestfallen.

Captain Greenwood sighed, ‘Of course.’

‘Do you not think it would simplify matters? Or do you not find me attractive?’

‘I would love nothing more than to kiss you, Miss Searson.’ He admitted. Elizabeth felt her stomach tighten.

Elizabeth was quite embarrassed at her boldness, however she had decided to take a logical approach to the issue at hand. If she enjoyed kissing Captain Greenwood, she would, of course, tell him that it had been pleasant. Perhaps then she would be able to marry him. If it repulsed her, on the other hand, she would make it known. She would not pretend to love him for personal gain of Professor de Bard’s properties.

‘This was not how I imagined our first kiss.’ Captain Greenwood admitted.

‘Have you imagined it before now?’ Elizabeth wondered aloud.

‘Many times.’ He smiled slyly.

‘Tell me.’

‘Oh, I do not think that is such a good idea.’

‘Why not?’

‘It … it is not something you tell a lady.’ His brow furrowed.

‘Are you embarrassed?’

‘You ask extremely awkward questions, Miss Searson.’ They looked at each other for a long while.

‘Will you kiss me, Captain?’ Elizabeth asked.

George Greenwood’s eyes blazed with determination and concentration. It was extremely clear to Elizabeth that he did not want to make a single mistake in this most important of situations. As the Captain put one hand in her hair, and the other to her waist, Elizabeth wondered vaguely if she was thinking too logically about the process of courting. As if it were an automatic reaction, her eyes closed as Captain Greenwood leaned towards her, his lips slightly parted as he pressed them to hers. He was warm, and moist. His breath washed over her as he pulled away by a fraction, only to bring his mouth crashing down upon hers once again. Elizabeth put her fingertips to his cheek, and allowed him to kiss her fully and unashamedly. His tongue swirled through her mouth, hot and wet. As quickly as it had begun, it was over.

Captain Greenwood seemed to be having some kind of internal struggle. His hands were shaking with what appeared to be immense effort and self-restraint. He was breathing very heavily, and when he spoke, his voice was ragged and husky.

‘Please tell me you felt something.’ He breathed.

Elizabeth straightened herself and considered this for a moment. She was not repulsed, nor was she aroused. However, she had found it quite nice.

‘It was … pleasant.’ She smiled, straightening her dress.

‘I should not have done it.’

‘Did you not enjoy it?’ She asked, feigning an expression on deepest hurt.

Captain Greenwood stared at her, flabbergasted, ‘Of course I enjoyed it! You do not know how long I have waited to do that.’

‘So what is the problem, Captain?’ Elizabeth stood and attempted to flatten her hair.

‘I had hoped to be a gentleman, and show restraint to some extent.’

‘You stopped, did you not?’ She asked with raised eyebrows.

Elizabeth was not sure if she was ashamed of herself for wanting Captain Greenwood to propose so he could sign the deed to Professor de Bard’s properties. She did like him, of course, though when he had kissed her she had not felt anything remotely like the feelings often described in books. There was no arousing passion, no butterflies in her stomach, and no pounding of her heart. She had not lied when she had said that it was pleasant though. She found it very enjoyable and wondered if the literature she had read about love had simply exaggerated the sensations felt during kissing. However, Elizabeth was not opposed to trying it again some time. Marriage might have little to do with the emotional entanglement of two young people, for emotions were fickle and not to be trusted. Romantic love was not necessary in most people’s eyes. After their brief intimacy Captain Greenwood bade Elizabeth farewell and she watched him walk down the street, a slight spring in his step.

~

As Elizabeth had no job to go to she made herself useful around the house, and helped her mother by running errands. The work of a homemaker did not thrill Elizabeth, but she was a hard worker and was always seeking things to do.

Elizabeth’s mother was absolutely delighted that she had taken to Captain Greenwood’s courtship. Mary Searson would tell anyone who would listen that George Greenwood of the Royal Navy was courting her daughter, and so it seemed, was Captain Greenwood. One evening whilst visiting Elizabeth in her home, he told her how he could not help but boast about their courtship to his colleagues.

Two weeks after Professor de Bard’s funeral, Elizabeth’s mother suggested something that took her by surprise.

‘I was thinking about asking Captain Greenwood his opinion on bundling.’

‘I beg your pardon, Mother?’ Elizabeth had said thunderstruck.

Bundling was a term used to describe the act of bed courting, something that took place more commonly among the middle-class, and poorer families. Bundling couples were expected to talk to one another through the night with a plank of foot-high wood placed between them, to ensure that no sexual conduct would take place. The couple would remain mostly clothed, though Elizabeth was not sure suggesting bundling to Captain Greenwood was a very wise idea for Elizabeth knew that he was no stranger to the company of a woman.

‘Your father and I shared a bed once a fortnight when we were courting.’ Her mother recalled, a glazed look forming over her eyes and she reminisced.

‘Yes, and I am sure all you did was talk.’ Elizabeth said sarcastically.

Her mother looked sternly at Elizabeth, ‘we were very good. Although … your father did sneak into my bedroom on many occasions. But all we did was cuddle.’ She insisted, ‘Bundling is a courtship ritual, many courting couples do it. Besides, I know you would not do anything to be ashamed of.’

Elizabeth considered this for a moment, ‘For how long were you and Father courting, before he proposed?’ She asked.

‘We courted for a month before your father sent a letter to my parents, expressing his desire to marry me.’ Her mother sighed, a far-away look in her eyes.

‘Did you marry right away?’ Elizabeth wondered.

‘Aye, we were wed within a fortnight of his proposal.’

‘Did … did you love him?’

Mary Searson focussed her eyes upon Elizabeth, who tried to fashion her expression into one of polite curiosity.

‘Very much.’ Her mother replied, ‘from the very first day.’

Elizabeth nodded in understanding and did not ask any more questions.

‘You seem troubled.’ Her mother noted.

Elizabeth sat in silence for a long while, ‘I am fine … really.’ She assured her.

As it turned out, Elizabeth’s mother did not need to concern herself with badgering Captain Greenwood with regards to his opinions of bundling up with Elizabeth. On Saturday night as the tower clock chimed ten, Elizabeth was putting on her nightdress, and washing her face in the basin. Her mother had retired an hour previously, and Elizabeth could hear light snores issuing from her room across the landing. Walking over to her bed, and putting out the candle, Elizabeth drew back the covers and slipped between the sheets. It was a cold night and she curled up into the foetal position. Barely a minute had passed since putting out her light when there came a strange tap at her window. Elizabeth raised her head slightly from the pillow and listened hard for the sound again.

Tap.

Sliding out of bed, Elizabeth made her way to her bedroom window, and pulled the lace curtains aside. The moon was lighting up the street, and standing below her second storey window was George Greenwood.

His face lit up when he saw her standing there and he dropped the handful of pebbles he had been intending to throw at the glass.

Elizabeth opened the window noiselessly and leaned out, her hair falling past her shoulders in curtains around her face, ‘Captain, what are you doing here?’ She hissed down at him, unable to suppress a small smile playing across her lips.

‘I had to see you.’ He said in a hushed voice that carried clearly up to her.

‘You saw me only yesterday.’ She pointed out. They had seen each other several times over the last two weeks, however they had not shared any more intimate moments since that kiss that had taken place after the funeral.

She saw him grin as he removed his hat, and held it to his chest, ‘I could not stay away.’ He confessed, ‘I have thought of nothing else all day, except coming to visit you. I could not stop myself.’

Elizabeth smiled, and her mother’s voice echoed in her head; I was thinking about asking Captain Greenwood his opinion on bundling. We courted for a month before your father sent a letter to my parents, expressing his desire to marry me. Could she really have the Professor’s apothecary in little over a month?

‘Captain,’ Elizabeth whispered, ‘Would you dare climb the wall and enter through my window?’

Captain Greenwood seemed momentarily shocked, before composing himself, ‘I would dare.’ He admitted with a nod, ‘But only if I was invited.’

Elizabeth tried to steady her breathing, ‘you are invited, Sir.’ And without another word she stepped away from the window and back to her bed, where she sat, waiting.

It did not take long for Captain Greenwood to scale the side of the house. The brickwork was clumsy, and there were many holes, allowing for an easy climb. He was rather silent as he climbed through the open window. His shoulders were a little too wide, but he managed to slip inside noiselessly.

Straightening up, Captain Greenwood gazed around the moonlit room, before his eyes fell upon Elizabeth in her nightdress, sitting upon the bed. She realised she had never been so bare in front of a man before, and twisted her hands together nervously as he looked at her.

‘I have never seen you in this light before.’ He whispered, stepping towards her.

Elizabeth avoided his penetrating gaze and stared at her bare feet upon the floorboards.

‘You seem nervous.’ His voice was warm, and husky.

Elizabeth looked up at the Captain and saw that his expression was hard and blazing.

‘I have never had a man in my bedroom before.’ She admitted.

Captain Greenwood sat next to Elizabeth, causing the mattress to sink several inches, ‘I had to see you.’ He heaved a dramatic sigh, ‘I was going mad, sitting at home and thinking of nothing else. Before I knew it I was halfway down the street. I shall be sad when I have to leave.’ He leant backwards and rested on his palms.

Elizabeth pursed her lips and forced the words from her mouth, ‘You could … spend the night.’ She shrugged casually, avoiding eye contact.

Captain Greenwood sat up, ‘Here? In this room?’

‘I would understand if you did not desire it.’

‘I would desire it more than anything.’ He said with raised eyebrows.

‘Will you stay?’ Elizabeth asked tentatively.

‘If you wish it.’ He said softly, taking her hand.

Captain Greenwood took of his shoes, socks, and waistcoat and lay with Elizabeth upon her bed. She rested her head upon his chest and allowed him to stroke her hair gently. It was very soothing lying there in his warm arms. He trailed a finger up and down the length of her arm, sending goose bumps over her flesh. She could hear his heart thumping madly, and his breathing was ragged.

‘What are you thinking about?’ Elizabeth whispered.

‘I am thinking … how content I am.’ He replied in a husky voice, as his fingertips trailed across her shoulder. She could feel him watching her, his eyes roaming over her body as she curled up against him. She wanted him to want her, for his affection would be key to a quick proposal. Elizabeth looked up at Captain Greenwood and caught the expression upon his face. Lust. His eyes burned with passion.

Elizabeth placed a hand upon his chest. His shirt had a few buttons undone and she could see dark, curly hair protruding over the top. She ran her fingertips through the hair upon his chest and he took a sharp intake of breath. Elizabeth felt bold, and daring. She fingered the highest button of his shirt and let it pop out of its hole. Captain Greenwood looked down his nose at Elizabeth, his expression one of confusion. She moved to the next button, and the next. Soon, his shirt fell open to reveal his bare chest. He was incredible, with a thicket of hair trailing all the way down to his belly button. A thinner trail led to the rim of his breeches. Elizabeth’s mouth felt dry, and she wondered how far she dared to go in order to claim Captain Greenwood as her own, indefinitely. Was giving in to her beliefs worth taking ownership of the apothecary? She looked up at the Captain and they locked eyes. Elizabeth could hear her mind screaming; Kiss me. Kiss me. For the love of God, you must be mine.

It was as though he had read her mind, for Captain Greenwood leaned forward at that moment and kissed her on the mouth. He caressed her arm, her shoulders, and lightly touching her collarbone. His fingers blazed a white-hot trail across her skin, and she shivered under his touch. Elizabeth’s heart pounded loudly, and she knew it was due to arousal, and not love for the Captain. She knew this, but at the moment it did not matter.

Elizabeth let out a throaty moan when the captain’s lips moved to the nape of her neck. She arched her back and pressed herself against him, melting into his arms. Captain Greenwood’s hand was upon her thigh. He pulled her closer, and Elizabeth wrapped her leg around his torso. Things were getting quite out of hand. All previous reservations lost, the Captain was above her, the weight of his body pressing against Elizabeth. She could feel his rugged breath cascading down her neck. He was groaning. His lips moved from her neck and came crashing down upon her mouth once again. Legs wrapped around his waist, Elizabeth gasped as she felt his manhood grind against her thigh. At this noise, he stopped kissing Elizabeth and stared down at her, his hair dishevelled, and his lips red.

‘Are you all right?’ He said breathlessly.

Elizabeth nodded, unable to form words.

He stared at her momentarily, breathing heavily. He appeared to be thinking hard.

‘Should I stop?’ He whispered. Elizabeth could feel his swollen crotch throbbing against her inner thigh.

‘I … I do not know.’ Elizabeth did not feel in the right state of mind to be making important decisions right now, ‘May-Mayhap we should … slow things down.’

Captain Greenwood rolled off of her, and embraced her once again. Her mind was racing and she wondered how ashamed she would be of herself if she tricked the Captain into signing the deeds.

They lay in each other’s arms for an hour without talking, slowly drifting to sleep. Elizabeth was on the brink of slumber when Captain Greenwood whispered into the silence.

‘Elizabeth?’

‘Mmmh?’ she responded.

‘I have been meaning to tell you something.’ He said awkwardly.

Elizabeth’s heart dropped. No, she thought, do not say it. It is too soon.

‘What is it, Captain?’ She said hesitantly. She did not think she could handle it if he confessed his love for her.

‘I fear I may have chosen an inappropriate time to fall for you.’

‘What do you mean?’ She said slowly.

‘I have avoided telling you.’ He breathed deeply, ‘But I shall be leaving in a weeks time.’

Elizabeth raised her head from his chest and stared at him, ‘Leaving?’

‘Duty calls, my love. We are forming an alliance with the Dutch against the navies of France and Spain. Of course, I am not meant to tell you that, but I do trust you thoroughly.’

‘The aspects of war do not thrill me, Captain.’ Elizabeth said, sitting up. Captain Greenwood seldom spoke of his duties as a Royal Navy officer for which Elizabeth was glad for she was greatly opposed to violence.

‘The Spanish Navy is attempting to regain Sicily from Austria. We must meet their fleet before it reaches Cape Passaro. I hope you understand that I must go.’

Elizabeth looked away, ‘How long will you be gone?’ she asked, dreading the response.

‘I cannot be sure.’ He said quietly, ‘Five … six months.’

Elizabeth snapped her attention back to Captain Greenwood, ‘Six months?’ She said exasperatedly.

‘I have been meaning to tell you.’ He sat up too, and looked imploringly at her, ‘I just could not find the right moment.’

‘I am a fool.’ Elizabeth avoided his eyes, ‘I allow you … here … into my very bed, yet this whole time you have planned to abandon me. I thought you wished to make me yours, Captain.’

‘I do.’ He said hurriedly, ‘Please do not think that I have used you for your company whilst on land. You could not be more wrong.’

‘What shall happen when you return in six months time, Captain? Must I be forced to wait for your return without a hint of commitment?’

Captain Greenwood closed his eyes for a moment. He seemed to be praying for patience, ‘I would commit to you, Elizabeth.’ He said through clenched teeth, ‘If I did not fear your response.’

Elizabeth cursed at her self internally. He was remembering what she had said regarding her position on marriage. I do not plan to wed at all had been her words to him only a fortnight ago.

‘I could not bare it if you were to decline.’ He continued.

Would he be suspicious if her attitude towards wedlock had changed within the last two weeks? Mayhap he might believe himself successful in courtship, and not think twice as to why she might marry him.

Elizabeth licked her lips, ‘I might not decline.’ She fixed him with a hard look.

The Captain raised his eyebrows, but he did not interrogate her regarding her change of views, ‘I might die if you were to refuse me.’

‘Do not be so dramatic.’ Elizabeth scolded.

He smiled at her remark, ‘you might marry me before the week is out, Elizabeth. We could be husband and wife by the time I leave for sea.’

Elizabeth’s heart leapt. Married within a week. She could be opening up the apothecary in a few days time.

‘We might.’ She nodded, ‘Though would your parents approve?’

‘We could be wed at night. No one would need to know. We can pay someone to witness our union.’

A secret wedding? So, it seemed that Captain Greenwood did not think his parents would approve of him marrying a common girl such as Elizabeth. To their knowledge there was nothing to be gained from marrying someone of her station. Little did they know, however, that Elizabeth would inherit two properties upon marriage. No one was to know this, for people would talk and assume that Elizabeth was using Captain Greenwood for personal gain, which she was indeed doing, though no one needed to know that.

Elizabeth nodded vigorously, and Captain Greenwood’s face lit up.

‘We can marry at midnight, and stay at a cottage on the outskirts of town.’ He went on, as though he had been thinking about the plan for days.

‘Do you not worry what your parents might think of marrying someone like me?’

The Captain embraced her so lovingly that Elizabeth felt a pang of guilt. ‘Once we consummate our marriage there shall be no separating us.’

Elizabeth gulped as he pulled away. She had not thought about that. She was unsure as to what was expected of a woman on the night of her wedding.

‘So, what say you?’ Captain Greenwood said, positively beaming.

‘I say … yes.’ Elizabeth forced a smile, which did not completely reach her eyes. She had never felt so selfish in her entire life.

They embraced again. The Captain held her so tightly that she feared she might not be able to breathe. Once he had relinquished his hold upon her he stared into her face, his expression one of extreme happiness. Elizabeth tried to imitate him.