Ripper, My Love

by Glynis Smy

Carrie had finished clearing away the bath time toiletries that lay around the room. When she had finished she laid a white sheet across the floor.

  ‘It is time to get you dressed, madam. Mr Whitfield will be waiting for you at fifteen minutes to seven, in the drawing room. He said he wants to speak with you privately before the evening gets underway.’

  ‘Thank you Carrie. We must start adding my layers; I must not be late. Come along Kitty; let us show the world this beautiful piece of art you have created.’

  It was an hour and fifteen minutes later that Evelyn stood in the centre of the room. She looked elegant. Her husband had sent her a new necklace to commemorate the event. It had brought about tears, so a frantic last five minutes of the time had been spent refreshing her eyes with cooled water. Now she was ready to meet him and thank him for his gift.

  ‘He will not be disappointed. You look beautiful Evelyn. Go before you start crying again, or he will be annoyed with being made to wait. Impatient creatures are men.’

  Kitty, handed over the fan made especially for the occasion and inspiration for the gown. She reassured Evelyn that she would be downstairs and by her side within the hour.

  Carrie followed Kitty into her room. She was under instructions to assist Kitty wherever she could. They removed her gown from its place of waiting and Kitty stepped into it. Excitement mounted.

  ‘I do not wear as many layers as your mistress, Carrie; I should be easier to assist.’

  ‘Your gown is a beautiful colour madam, it suits you well. You are clever with your hands. I am not handy with the needle. I stitch for basic repairs, but your work is, as madam said, a work of art.’

  ‘Thank you, and it is Kitty not madam, Carrie. I learned to sew, thanks to my mother. She taught me before she died. Tonight would have been such a thrill for her. There, that is that. I am in, safe and secure. I am not sure how I am supposed to breathe. These new designs are a close fit.’

  Carrie moved around to look at Kitty from the front.

  ‘It is very flattering. You do it justice, Kitty. Do you have something for your hair?’

  ‘I am keeping it simple. I thought I would pull it back at the nape and tie it off with the matching ribbon.’

  Carrie picked up the ribbon, and tied a simple bow. It was not large, but just enough to show off the ribbon. The two loose ends followed the ponytail of curls that reached Kitty's shoulders.

  ‘Could you help me with my necklace please?’ Kitty handed her prize possession, a heart shaped locket in gold. It had been her mother's, although it was not worth a fortune; Kitty considered it a valuable treasure.

  ‘There, all done. It is time for you to go downstairs. You look very beautiful. I hope you have a wonderful night. You deserve it, the work you put into madam's gown, earned you the chance to shine. Good luck Kitty.’

  Kitty took a deep breath. She could not avoid the moment, nor did she want to, James would arrive soon and she could not wait.

  ‘Off I go then Carrie, do I have everything? Do I really look presentable; you are not just being kind are you? Oh, I am so nervous.’

  Carrie laughed, as Kitty twisted and turned to view herself in the full-length mirror.

  ‘And you are beginning to sound like my mistress. Go; enjoy yourself.’

  Chapter 26

  An Evening of Experiences

  Carrie opened the bedroom door and Kitty could hear the sound of voices from the hallway below. She took a deep breath and made her way to the staircase. It looked so large, and such a long way down. She could see the staff milling around with glasses on trays, coats, and hats on their arms. The guests had started to arrive, she could hold back no longer. She took each step with care, her shoes had only small heels, but she knew they could catch in the hem of her dress if she was not careful.

  Take it steady, come on, you can do this. Deep breath.

  At the bottom of the stairs, a valet offered her a drink from his tray. She declined; there was time enough for her to have champagne, for now she wanted to find Evelyn. A male strode towards her.

  ‘Good evening Miss Harper, Kitty. Thank you so much for coming this evening. My wife has spoken about you so much; I feel we have already met.’

  The new mayor of London shook her hand. She was grateful he had approached her, she knew of him, but not what he looked like. He was older than his wife, tall and wiry. He wore a kind smile, and his moustache lifted at either end, adding to it. It was a genuine smile; the man did not falter when he took her hand and kissed the back of it. There was nothing condescending in his act. He made Kitty relax with his gentle manner.

  ‘Good evening, sir. Thank you so much for inviting me. It is such an honour.’

  Her host dropped her hand and held it out towards his wife, who approached them; her smile could not get any wider. Kitty wondered if the couple ever looked miserable, it was certainly hard to imagine.

  ‘Oh good, you two have met at last. Does not she look lovely, darling? Another one of her successful creations.’

  ‘She most certainly does, but I know someone who looks lovelier, I am sure you agree Kitty? You did an incredible job on what will be the most spoken about piece of clothing this century.’

  His laugh filled the hall and the guests who had arrived, turned to look at the three of them. Before Kitty had chance to reply, a master of ceremonies arrived, and she was manoeuvred into the ballroom. A vast room, decorated in colours from the family crest was alive with voices and soft music. The rich burgundy, ochre, and navy blue contrast won Kitty's approval; in her own words it was sumptuous. It was a new word she had found in a book, Arthur had explained the meaning, and she was pleased with herself for using it.

  The time ticked by as people arrived and shook hands with the Whitfields. Kitty was introduced, as a friend of the family, and to those Evelyn wanted to promote Kitty to, she was a city gown designer. It sounded a grand title, and her husband turned to wink at Kitty every time it was mentioned. They were such a fun couple, and Kitty was enjoying every moment spent in their company. Evelyn never let anyone dominate Kitty or her husband. She was a skilled hostess. When she became bored of standing, she declared it was time for them to sit and watch the dancing. Any arrivals now, would find them seated at the end of the ballroom, with the men who would support the mayor. Evelyn had given Kitty her own dance card, and moved six names over from her own. She instructed Kitty on how the dance system worked, and told her to sit and enjoy the festivities.

  Kitty smiled at mismatched outfits, which spilled forth bosoms to attract a male. She thought back to Sally, how she would have loved tonight, bright colours, wine, music, and men.

  One man caught her eye, he looked so much like James, and she was convinced he had to be related. Then she saw Hannah and knew him to be their younger brother.

  She scoured the room for James. Her eyes flitted from one male to another. Evelyn saw her, and pointed out a trio of young men across the room.

  ‘They look fine on the eye Kitty. You might do well to seek a husband from that group. They are the sons of one of the richest merchants in the city. Or, look, the one over there, yes, he has thighs that would hold you tight.’

  Kitty raised her hand to her mouth, and giggled.

  ‘Evelyn, you are naughty. How bold you have become, it is a good job I know you are teasing. Besides, a friend is attending tonight. I was looking out for her and her family if you must know, not a husband.’

  Evelyn turned her body towards Kitty; she then took Kitty's chin and turned her to look into her face.

  ‘Bold I might be young lady, but a teller of tales I am not. I will leave that job for you. You are looking for a female friend and her family? Are you a sapphist? I think not. The longing in your eyes is for a man, and not just any man. Now I will have to try and guess who this mystery lover of yours is.’

  Kitty gave an urgent whispered reply.

  ‘He is not my lover.’

  Evelyn rejoiced in the fact she had ousted Kitty's secret, a
nd she was in fact scouring the room for a male.

  ‘Maybe not, but your love most definitely. I knew it, you sly one you. The wool does not pull across my eyes as easily as it might others, madam.’

  She tapped her fan on Kitty's forearm. Kitty could not speak; her eyes were brimming with tears of laughter. Evelyn had made an awkward moment funny.

  She watched as her friend rose to accept the first dance with her husband. Now she was alone; the others who sat beside her were in deep conversation. Not certain what was expected of her, Kitty sat and watched the dance. Her new friends held each other as they waltzed. They were so in love. The way they stared into each other’s eyes and spoke a few words, made her slightly envious. She wanted a moment such as that for herself.

  The music finished and her eyes followed the mayor and his wife, they walked over to where the Lockwood family stood. She watched them shake hands and smiled as Mrs Lockwood touched the side of Evelyn's gown. A moment of pride for Kitty, her work was being admired. Evelyn turned towards Kitty, said something to Mrs Lockwood and the group moved across the room. They were coming toward her. She stood up as they got closer, and held back a curtsey. Why she felt she should perform one was beyond her, but she felt humbled in their presence.

  The men said good evening to her, and then moved to one side with her host, they entered into deep conversation about farming quotas. The women grouped together, and Evelyn spoke to Kitty.

  ‘It appears you know the Lockwood family. Martha is already a customer of yours so I understand.’

  ‘Good evening, Mrs Lockwood, Hannah. You both look lovely tonight.’

  ‘The credit goes to you, my girl. You could turn a sow's ear into a silk purse. Isn't that true, Hannah?’

  Hannah nodded a shy response. Before she could speak, Evelyn chatted on.

  ‘Kitty certainly has talent, I agree. As you pointed out, my gown would be fit for Queen Victoria, if only she wore colours. And of course, Kitty made her own gown. I think it is so delicate, the way it folds and flows. What did you say the names of the folds were? Jabot? See I do listen.’

  Kitty gave another smile; convinced her mouth would stay in the upturned position by the end of the night. She nodded politely, and listened to Mrs Lockwood reminisce over previous fashions.

  ‘How I miss the Bertha. It was in fashion several years ago. I remember my husband came home to the farm, and told me the ladies were baring their shoulders. The next trip we took to the city, I just had to have one made. Mind, my figure was more of an hourglass shape than grandfather clock in those days. Mock my dears, it will happen to you all when age catches upon you.’

  James's mother took great delight explaining the different fashions she had seen come and go. Kitty was so engrossed in the conversation, she had missed seeing James join his father, but Hannah had not. Kitty froze when she heard her call him over to join the group. It was now she wished she had drunk champagne to steady her nerves.

  ‘James, come, let me introduce you to Mrs Whitfield, our hostess. You remember her companion, Kitty? You collect enough of our things from her establishment, you cannot possibly forget her.’

  James stood before them and kissed the back of Evelyn’s hand.

  ‘Good evening Mrs Whitfield. It is a pleasure.’

  He then inclined his head to Kitty and shook her hand.

  ‘Miss Harper.’

  His mother regained control of his attention, and they had no time to speak together. Kitty had loved the look of amazement when he saw her; he appeared to draw in a deep breath before he joined them.

  ‘Now where is that delight of a girl you had on your arm, not five minutes ago? Do not say you have left her standing alone somewhere. Come Hannah, another apology to be made on your brother's behalf. Men will be the death of me, they surely will. Have some manners and put your name on Mrs Whitfield’s card, or I will have words with you later.’

  His mother's voice trailed off as she moved away from them, dwindling group. The music had struck up again, and still neither James nor Kitty had spoken. Evelyn told James her card was full and would he kindly put his name on Kitty's. Within seconds, Evelyn was whisked away by the next name on her list.

  Kitty felt a little foolish standing in the grand ballroom alone with James, away from her safe haven of Buttons and Bows, or the park,

  He handed back her dance card, as he did so, he wrapped his fingers around one of hers. It could not be seen under the card, but Kitty was very conscious of the act. She removed her hand from his.

  ‘I thought you were not coming tonight, Kitty. What made you change your mind?

  ‘I did not. Mrs Whitfield, Evelyn, changed it for me. I assisted her with getting ready for the evening. We appear to have struck up quite a friendship. She treats me well. It is all quite a fairytale really.’ Kitty smiled. ‘It is lovely to see you James. I look forward to our dance.’

  Taking this as his dismissal, James gave a slight nod of his head, and moved away. It would not be seemly to stand talking to Kitty for too long.

  Once again Kitty stood alone. She watched the man she loved walk away and returned to her seat to gather her thoughts. Evelyn was a very perceptive woman, and she must not give her any reason to think that James and Kitty were more than just acquaintances. Besides, his mother had mentioned another woman on his arm. This snippet of information had niggled its way to the forefront of her mind, and she wondered who his partner was.

  She could see him across the room; the evening light shone through from the gardens and appeared to surround him with moonlight. He looked so handsome, his father was not so good looking, and she thought James had the features of his mother. A plump, ruddy faced girl stood beside him, her arm rested on his. Kitty would like to have found something appealing about her, to justify the feeling of jealousy she had inside, but she could not. The girl had no fashion sense, and was dressed in a dowdy, fawn coloured heavily layered style. There were so many layers on show, Kitty was convinced one gust of wind would lift James's companion off her feet. Her hair hung in large, matt ringlets, and a floral concoction sat askew on the right side of her head. One false move and Kitty was sure she would stab James in the eye with a feather.

  What a dreadful looking woman.

  James and the young woman laughed and chatted. He gave her all of his attention. Kitty watched in horror, she realised this woman was more than a family friend.

  Surely she is not a lover. Yet he seems attentive toward her. Not once has he looked my way.

  Touched by a twinge of hurt and humiliation, Kitty longed to stand out in the cool air, to collect her thoughts, the room felt hot and stuffy.

  James laughter rang across the room. She watched as he and the woman whispered behind the hideous fan she carried.

  ‘My brother’s laugh carries far do you not agree, Kitty?’ Hannah had moved beside her. ‘His fiancée has the voice of a donkey, but he appears to enjoy her company well enough.’

  Kitty was almost lost for words. Hannah had caught her unawares. ‘His fiancée?’ She fanned herself in the hope her face had not flushed too much ‘I did not realise you were to have a family wedding.’

  She tried to keep her voice light and interested. Inside she screamed.

  Fiancée? He is to be married, yet he has bedded me with promises of marriage? You are a stupid girl, Kitty Harper. Oh, Hannah, go away. Please.

  ‘It is not official yet. Not publicly. Both families are eager to seal the marriage contract swiftly. The amalgamation of our farms will be most profitable.’ Hannah said.

  Kitty was hurt and confused. She looked at her dance card and noted she was not due to dance for two more.

  ‘That is most wonderful for your family. Now, if you will excuse me, Hannah. I must attend to Mrs Whitfield. It was a pleasure.’

  Kitty walked to Evelyn, who was engrossed in a conversation. With relief, Kitty, took the opportunity to slip unnoticed onto the veranda. A warm evening breeze brushed her face. It was most welcome.

/>   She took a slow walk down the steps into the rose garden, their perfume was inviting, and she crouched to smell them. Kitty inhaled deeply, fighting back the tears.

  Promised in marriage? James has lied to me.

  ‘They are beautiful and so are you.’

  Kitty stiffened, and chose to ignore the voice, she knew was James’s. The fact he had followed her outside irritated her.

  ‘I said you are beautiful.’

  His hand touched her shoulder and she shrugged it away. Her mouth tightened and her words were barely a whisper. She bit back the anger she felt inside.

  ‘I heard what you said, and please refrain from touching me.’

  ‘You are not happy. Has something happened? For goodness sake stand up, and turn around. I cannot talk to you like this.’

  Kitty did as he asked. The tears rolled down her face, she did not attempt to hide them. James offered her his handkerchief, one she had embroidered as a gift for him.

  ‘The roses have made my eyes water. I am sorry, but I must get back inside, James; I am due to dance with Lord Halinbury's son. I only came out for air; it is so stuffy in there.’

  She dried her eyes and handed him back his property.

  ‘And you have deserted your companion. I am sure she has you on her dance card many times.’

  She lifted her head in a haughty fashion, and started to walk back to the house. James held her back.

  ‘Ah, ha now we have the nub of the problem out in the open. My lady is jealous of the peasant girl forced upon me.’

  He pulled her close and kissed her, he tried to push his tongue in-between her lips but they remained firmly together. She was furious and was not going to relent to his kisses. Kitty stayed as stiff as wood in his arms.

  ‘You are playing ice maiden? What? No love from my lover? None of those delicious nibbling kisses you give so freely?’

  James let her go, and continued to tease her, his voice had a playful edge to it, but Kitty was not in the mood for games. She could not stop herself; she raised her hand and slapped his face. There was a brief moment of disbelief from both parties. She snapped out her retort.