The Secrets of Tenley House

by Patricia Dixon

  “How dare you treat me this way. I will not abide by your rules and Kenneth will not allow it. I am his mother and I will be respected.” There was steel in Phyllis’s voice but within seconds it would be silenced as Georgie brought down the axe.

  “I have no respect for you and neither has Kenneth, who, if you haven’t noticed yet, is besotted by me and under my spell so I doubt he will want to forgo any of the pleasures or magic I bestow upon him. And as for the staff, they despise your treatment of them so I think it’s high time you learnt some self-control and humility because let’s face it, Syphilis, soon those you treat badly and speak down to will be washing you down and spoon-feeding mashed up food, like a pathetic baby, incapable and needy. Diddums.”

  Phyllis raged inside, her fury leaked from her lips and spittle flicked on Georgie’s face that was inches away. “There is nothing wrong with me, I am totally capable of caring for myself and I will not take orders from the likes of you, or anybody, now leave this room immediately.” But the resolve that Georgie had heard moments earlier was waning; a tremble in the voice told her Phyllis was rattled, so it was time to put her out of her misery.

  “Oh but you will take orders from me, Syphilis, because if you don’t I shall get straight on the phone and summon one of my dear friends, a rather lovely chap from Harley Street who specialises in locking up batty old fruit cakes like you. All he requires is a big fat cheque. Now, add this to the testimony from the staff and poor sweet Vanessa who is traumatised by nasty Granny, and I’m confident that you will be carted off in a straightjacket well before teatime tomorrow. Do I make myself clear?”

  “You wouldn’t dare.” Phyllis felt the blood run cold in her bones and sweat prick her brow as any words of defence dried up in her mouth. She had lost her power, replaced by fear.

  “I would… in fact I am tempted to ring him anyway, just for fun. And mark my words, should you choose to disobey me I will make sure that when they pull the strings on the jacket, I’ll make sure they are nice and tight and you never return to Tenley, unless it’s in a coffin, do you understand?” Georgie saw the fear in the old woman’s eyes and an almost unperceivable nod so she straightened and smoothed down her dress.

  “Is that all?” Phyllis was determined to salvage some dignity from the situation but soon regretted it.

  “No, actually I have one more warning for you and it is with regards to Vanessa. From this day forward she is in my care. Do you see this ring?” Georgie held up her wedding band. “It means that Vanessa is now mine, my daughter, all legal and above board, and unlike you, I accept her into this family, my family. For that reason, should you ever upset her in any way, ever again, you will suffer. Is that clear?” Georgie took one step forward and glared at Phyllis who nodded twice then averted her gaze.

  “I think that’s everything. I have so enjoyed our little chat, Syphilis, and remember, I’ll be listening out for any hint of bad behaviour, oh, and do take care on those stairs. You hear about old folks taking a tumble and I wouldn’t want you to make a mess of my new carpets. Now, I’m going to find my husband and daughter. We are dining together this evening. I’ll find somebody to bring you a tray. Goodnight, Mother dearest.”

  Georgie waved, wiggling her fingers in the direction of Phyllis as she passed Horace who chose that moment to chirp a question from his birdcage. “Who’s a pretty boy?”

  Raising her hand, Georgie slammed it hard against the cage and as the budgie fluttered and squawked, she replied, “Not you, Horace, not you.”

  Within days, a fresh breath of life entered Tenley. A team of decorators were hired after Georgie and Vanessa perused huge books containing samples of bright and colourful wallpaper and a lady from town came with swatches of fabric that she would make into new drapes and furnishings. Georgie began with Vanessa’s room which was fit for a princess then began her rampage through the rest of the house. In the spring, the orangery was to be refurbished and the pool cleaned and prepared for a summer season of parties and although Vanessa still refused to go anywhere near, Georgie hoped that with time she might at least dip her toe in the water and rid herself of bad memories.

  Georgie learned to drive and Kenneth had presented her with a darling little sports car, a convertible MGB that was perfect for shooting around the lanes with Vanessa by her side, shrieking with laughter as their hair blew in the wind. Because Kenneth was such a darling and took Vanessa to school each day, Georgie made much of roaring into the car park each afternoon where she waited in her very best outfits, Jackie O sunglasses adding an air of mystique, studiously reapplying her lipstick in the rear mirror and bestowing delightful smiles to the other whispering mothers. Once a week, she drove to the village and placed the Tenley order at the butcher’s. She preferred to choose the cuts herself and get to know the locals. That’s what she told Kenneth.

  The house was beginning to look superb, shiny and new, and smelling heavenly thanks to the flowers Kenneth sent every Friday. In the new year one of their artist friends had been commissioned to paint Georgie’s portrait so all that was left was to get a bloody cat, she wasn’t really too fussed so decided to give it to Vanessa instead. The child would welcome something to cuddle and care for and now they had been brought into line by Georgie, she could tell all of those beastly girls about it at school too.

  Lady Tenley was a hot topic amongst the mothers from Vanessa’s school and rumours of the socialite with friends in high places were rife, although not necessarily believed which was why Georgie decided to bash two birds with one big stone and invite the stuck-up nosey parkers to tea. The house was now adorned with the photographs that Georgie had hoarded over the years. Happy memories, famous friends, a couple of Beatles, roguish members of parliament, a royal dining companion, a happy couple on their wedding day beside lots of Georgie and her new daughter, Vanessa. It only took a platter of Cookie’s sandwiches and a Victoria sponge, along with the photographic proof that Georgie was in fact well connected. It soon became imperative for their little darlings to become firm friends with the dumpy girl they referred to as Nessie.

  Everyone in Vanessa’s class soon wanted an invitation to her birthday party and a look at the handsome Laurie Lambert who was a star of stage and screen, and a DJ from Radio Caroline who would be playing music. Georgie loved making Vanessa happy, in fact it had occurred to her that the little monkey really was getting under her skin and for the most part, their relationship was both mutual and adoring. That said, Georgie would soon need to lay down some ground rules as she was beginning to hanker after London and all it had to offer. Kenneth felt the same way but owing to the departure of the previous nanny, escaping to Kensington was going to be a bit of a problem.

  Amongst the gadding about and dining with their affluent neighbours who were eager to meet the new Lady Tenley, Georgie set time aside after school and at weekends for Vanessa who on the whole was undemanding and quite happy to sit and read while they all listened to music or watched the brand new television. It was just the mornings that Georgie found difficult because late nights and motherhood didn’t go well together and apart from doing fun things such as choosing wallpaper and the like, running the house was fast becoming tedious. The problem was further complicated by Cookie’s retirement after she tearfully handed in her notice to an equally tearful Georgie. It was becoming clear that a solution had to be found and the position would have to be advertised, meaning an even more tedious task fell on her shoulders.

  Dilemmas often have a strange way of sorting themselves out and it came as a huge relief when, during the charity fete at the village hall, the young woman who Georgie often chatted to in the butcher’s and was now serving tea and biscuits, enquired after a job at Tenley. Suggesting they took a seat to discuss the matter privately, Sandy, as she introduced herself, admitted she had heard rumours that the cook was leaving and a position might soon become vacant. Whilst Sandy appeared confident and eager, Georgie sensed shyness and a hint of sadness in her eyes so now being of a ben
evolent nature and quite desperate to avoid endless interviews, enquired after Sandy’s qualifications.

  Sandy it seemed had trained as a teacher but later pursued a career in hospitality and was more than capable of running a hotel, let alone a home. She currently worked in the retirement home in the next town and even better, could drive and had her own car. As she listened, Georgie’s mind ticked over because there in front of her eyes, sipping tea and waiting nervously, was the answer to their prayers. Sandy was educated and could act as chaperone and governess to Vanessa whilst Georgie and Kenneth were in London. Sandy could run Tenley and keep an eye on the mad old crone who was becoming a daily nuisance, tempting Georgie to act on her threats and ring Giles in Harley Street. Still, with Phyllis she could bide her time.

  “I must say you are just what we are looking for but may I ask, why on earth did you give up teaching? I am sure it is preferable to hotel work and attending the elderly.” Georgie stirred her tea and watched as Sandy blushed and cast her eyes downwards.

  The answer began with a whisper. “It was a private matter that I’d rather not discuss except to say that I decided to cut my training short and start a new life elsewhere, although I have excellent references from my previous employer.” Sandy replaced her cup before looking upwards, dreading further interrogation.

  Georgie had wanted to bite off her own tongue the moment she asked the question and had already surmised the cause of Sandy’s embarrassment, so placed a gentle hand over the one fiddling with a napkin and sought to reassure her.

  “My dear, it’s fine, please forget I asked… I suspect you have had unhappy dealings with a man and for whatever reason chose to leave. That is your business and of no concern to me, believe me, I understand. Now, if you would be so good as to pop your references in the post and provide a telephone number I will discuss the matter with my husband immediately. How does that sound?” Georgie smiled kindly and saw that Sandy had brightened and was reaching for her handbag.

  “Thank you so much, Lady Tenley. And there’s no need to post them, I have them here. I hope you don’t think me presumptuous but I like to be organised and thought it might save time.” Sandy passed Georgie the envelope.

  “Why thank you, Sandy, that is most efficient of you. And it’s such a shame that Vanessa has come down with a dreadful cold because you could have said hello, but never mind, I’m sure you’ll meet very soon.” Georgie winked and was glad to see Sandy took the hint.

  They said their goodbyes and Georgie promised to be in touch within the next few days when in truth she’d already made up her mind. Kenneth would be on board, she knew that, but would discuss it on the way home and with any luck they would be in London by the end of the month.

  Vanessa had taken the news well, about everything really, but that was because Georgie had a way of putting things, laying out pros and cons, and how life was all about give and take and showing each other love and respect.

  Georgie explained that she and Kenneth would need to spend time in London now and again which would mean finding someone to care for Vanessa in their absence, a nice person who could step in as a governess because nannies were for babies. It would be the perfect solution if they were busy or in Georgie’s case, asleep or inebriated. When Vanessa asked if she could go to London with them, Georgie said that Kenneth had business to attend to and she wanted to see her friends so Vanessa would be bored. Instead she was promised a special trip before Christmas where they could do lots of shopping, and buy a new dress for her birthday, and go to the theatre and a pantomime, her choice.

  Vanessa brightened at this but then became concerned about the new governess – what if she didn’t like her or they didn’t get on. At this, Georgie was quite firm and pointed out that she expected Vanessa to be sensible and grown up about it and not to cause trouble, after all it was the best way and would avoid any mention of boarding schools. Not only that, according to Georgie, adults deserved to have fun too so children should understand and not be selfish, reminding Vanessa that she had done everything she could to make school life better and protect her from Phyllis so it was her turn to be selfless and kind.

  After assuring Vanessa that the appointment of a governess and housekeeper would be wonderful for all of them and give Georgie lots of free time when she was in Tenley, the tension in the room receded and a storm was averted. And to make it all even better, Georgie had brought home a delicious basket of jellied fruits and handmade chocolates from the fete and if she was good, promised to bring Vanessa back a gift from Fortnum and Mason, whatever she fancied.

  Before Georgie headed off downstairs she remembered something else and after giving Vanessa another dose of the syrupy cough medicine, told her about the new addition to the family.

  “And I have one more question, how would you like our little family to become four?” Georgie saw Vanessa’s face cloud over a moment before she replied.

  “What do you mean… are you having a baby?” Vanessa had tears in her eyes as Georgie dramatically flung her hand to her breast.

  “Oh my goodness, no. Whatever gave you that idea? I wondered if you would like a kitten, something to keep you company while I’m away. I have told you before, dearest, I have no intention of having children, you’re my one and only, always and forever. So, what do you say?” Georgie waited, eager to get downstairs for a G&T, she was drowning in tea.

  “I would love a kitten, thank you so much, Georgie, and I promise with all my heart I will be good for the governess. Honest I will.”

  The transformation of Tenley was complete. What had once been a house whose dark eyes glowered across the tended lawns as shadows crept along corridors, and the greyest clouds seemed to always hover above its roof was now unrecognisable, inside and out. Lights would burn all night long, the windows glowing yellow as the halls and rooms were filled with laughter and music.

  As winter approached, even the house seemed to hold its breath in anticipation for a Christmas of merriment and a summer of love, while its inhabitants settled into their new lives. The master and mistress of Tenley and their delightful daughter, Vanessa.

  Part III

  Tenley House

  Georgie is in her rightful place, embracing the applause in full glare of the spotlight, lapping up the adoration and admiration that washes over her perfectly made-up face in waves. She lives life to full and can be whoever she wants to be, to whomever she chooses. A mother and lady of the manor, a wife and a slut, a wonderful hostess and a gin soaked lush. Roles she enjoys in equal measure. And thanks to the good grace of her husband, she now has the one thing she craved most, no not money, respectability. The stain of shame and the pain of rejection have been erased. She belongs.

  Kenneth is living the life he was born to, in deed and spirit, free from scrutiny and unburdened by prejudice, avoiding social stigma and humiliation. He has risen from the ashes of a shabby life in the shadows and behind toilet doors. He is a good father, an excellent husband and master of his home and more importantly his mother, thanks entirely to the strength and good grace of his wife. At Tenley, he is the epitome of an alpha male and has gained the respect of the estate, and in London he is free to love and be loved in the way he always desired. He has gained respect for himself. He belongs.

  Vanessa is growing; much quicker and larger than most but this does not concern her, or her doting parents whose only concern is her happiness, and theirs. She misses them dreadfully when they are away but keeps her side of the bargain, following the rules and her wonderful Georgie’s examples. But despite the separations, she believes she is loved, wanted and accepted as part of the family, never to be sent or given away again. She belongs.

  Phyllis is fast losing her grip on life, her body and her mind. It is all slipping away, memories, names, faces, all turning to sand and slush. But she will cling on, the fear of incarceration, and ending her days like the womenfolk gone before her, left to wander halls in soiled gowns, abandoned by their family, strikes terror in her heart. T
his is why she obeys the rules laid down by the blonde temptress. Phyllis is left with no choice and remains closeted in her rooms, hidden away, dreading the night, tiptoeing through her day, being polite, as quiet as possible so as not to cause a fuss or give herself away. And as much as it rankles she knows it is the only way she can remain, clinging on. For now she belongs.

  Sandy will shortly be in her rightful place, by her child’s side. From here she will keep her safe from harm and contamination by those not fit or suitable, within sight of the good Lord who has reunited mother and baby. And she is prepared to wait and watch until the time is right to reveal herself and take back what is hers, regardless of any obstacles placed in her way. She has worked hard for this, shown great patience and trust so all she has to do is watch for the signs and let him lead the way. God has delivered her to Tenley. This is where she belongs.

  Bonfire Night

  The crackles and whizzing of the fireworks that zipped overhead were eclipsed only by the sound of children’s voices as they oohed and shrieked with every mini explosion. Amongst the villagers and estate families were the Tenleys and their watchful governess who hovered a few steps behind the group not seeming to enjoy the spectacle or the hustle of the crowd. Vanessa was enthralled as was Georgie who, whilst wrapped in fur, had just finished handing out toffee apples to the children. Georgie and Kenneth had recently returned from London where Georgie had been to see the new West End Show Evita, twice, and along with knowing every word of the soundtrack, that night saw herself as Tenley’s very own Eva Peron. While Georgie played her part to the full, Kenneth dealt with more manly things like lighting sparklers.