Winthrop Manor

by Mary Christian Payne

  “I didn’t, either.” Elisabeth giggled. “I’m so happy you sent the note with Win. Wouldn’t we have been surprised if we’d run into you at Gretna Green?”

  “Apparently, great minds think alike.” Win laughed. “Whose idea was it to run off to Gretna Green?”

  “Mine,” answered Andrew. “Since I’d attended the wedding I told you about, I immediately thought about Gretna.”

  “It was the first place to pop into my mind, too,” Win chimed in.

  On they rode, through the afternoon, in almost a straight line, south to north, from Hampshire to the Scottish border.

  CHAPTER SIXTEEN

  Upon arrival at Gretna Greene, everyone agreed that Win would be the one to take charge of the planning. He was the eldest and had been there before. Of course, so had Andrew, but Win was a natural leader, so they all felt he would be the best of the four to make decisions. Win drove to the area where the foursome would be most likely to find suitable accommodations. Soon, they began to see numerous hotels and inns. One of the inns had a particularly quaint charm, and the girls squealed with delight at the idea of making it the headquarters for their stay. Therefore, Win parked the elegant automobile and excused himself, leaving Andrew, Elisabeth, and Josephine anxiously awaiting his return. At last, he came back to the car.

  “I’ve booked two suites, each with a bedchamber, bath, and parlour. I think you young ladies should use one of them for the purpose of preparing yourselves for the wedding ceremony. Andrew and I shall settle in the other. After the wedding, we’ll each take over a suite.”

  Everyone disengaged from the auto and entered the inn. They were shown to their respective rooms. Once an employee delivered their luggage, the girls were left to their own devices, while Andrew and Win went in search of a locale where they could learn the necessary requirements for marriage at the Old Church. They were fortunate, in that the church was available that very evening at 8:00 p.m.

  The two men hurried back to the inn and presented the news to their brides-to-be. Josephine and Elisabeth were overjoyed. Not only had the men learned of the church’s availability, but they also brought news that if the couple wished, they could be joined in wedlock in a joint ceremony, since witnesses were available upon request. The immediate response was a resounding yes. It was 6:00 p.m., which did not leave a great deal of time, but everyone retired to their assigned locations and promised to meet shortly before eight o’clock. Elisabeth and Josephine took a short lie-down, although both were much too overcome with joy to truly rest.

  Preparations for the big event began about sixth-thirty. Baths were run, hair was freshly brushed and pinned into up-dos, and small amounts of lip rouge and other light cosmetics were applied. Finally, each girl helped the other negotiate buttons on the backs of their gowns. Their excitement was absolutely overwhelming. Elisabeth and Josephine giggled one moment and wept with happiness the next. They chatted as they dressed.

  “Elisabeth, I’m so delighted you’re going to be my sister-in-law. I never would have dreamed such a thing could happen. I didn’t even know Andrew was seeing you. In fact, Win hinted about you having an interest in Dr. Drew. I thought that was why Win invited Tom to the dinner at Winthrop Manor the night I met you.”

  “Yes. To be honest, I was once rather intrigued by Tom. He’s handsome, kind, and intelligent. Nonetheless, the moment I met Andrew, I was certain I’d met my soul mate. There was a definite feeling that our meeting was predestined. I can’t really explain. Any other man I’d ever met flew completely out of my mind.”

  “You needn’t explain to me. That’s precisely the way I felt when Win came riding by our cottage. I was dumbstruck. I’m still dumbstruck. I’d never have believed in a thousand years I’d be his wife. I didn’t even believe I wanted to be married. Isn’t it amazing how love can turn one’s life upside down?”

  “Oh, Josephine. I didn’t think I was ready for this step in my life, either. Now I can’t imagine a life without Andrew.”

  “We’re both very lucky, don’t you think?” Josephine said.

  At twenty minutes before eight o’clock, the two left their suite and descended the ornate staircase to the first-floor level of what had once been a lovely, old home.

  Win and Andrew were waiting at the bottom of the stairs. When they first set eyes upon their intended brides, exclamations of awe filled the air.

  “My dear, dear Josephine,” Win said, in an emotion-filled voice. “You look so incredibly lovely. I want to always remember the way you look at this moment.” He handed her a bouquet of white roses mixed with white violets. “Here, darling. You’ll hand this off to one of the witnesses when the moment arrives.” He also gave her a gold wedding band. “This, my love, is for you to place upon my finger. I have its companion in my pocket. I made certain it will fit splendidly with your engagement ring.”

  “Win, you’ve thought of everything. How wonderful. I shall always remember this moment.”

  Elisabeth and Andrew were engaged in a similar conversation. She’d had no engagement ring, but Andrew had purchased a complete set. He slipped the engagement ring on her finger and asked her properly to be his wife. The four of them broke into laughter.

  “Since we’re on our way to the church, I don’t think there's any wonder about my answer.” Elisabeth smiled.

  The four then strolled out of the inn and to the automobile. Doors were held open while Josephine and Elisabeth entered its plush interior, settling their gowns about them.

  Andrew slid into the back seat next to Elisabeth, and Win arranged himself behind the steering mechanism on the right, with Josephine to his left. It was a very short ride to the picturesque Old Parish Church. The ancient structure had borne witness to countless thousands of Gretna Green weddings over the centuries. A fragment of late-medieval window molding and what may have been two similar fragments were built into the west wall. The timbered roof and Gothic, stained glass windows, portions of which dated from the original medieval church, clearly set the old parish church apart from other Gretna wedding venues.

  The lovely church’s setting was very secluded, and there were private lawns as well as gardens. The environment brought tears to Josephine’s eyes, since she had such a special love of the out-of-doors and enchanting gardens.

  The vicar was awaiting their arrival at the entrance to the church. He was an elderly gentleman with steel-gray hair and penetrating blue eyes. He shook Win’s and Andrew’s hands and then greeted Josephine and Elisabeth.

  “I welcome you to our historic wedding site. I’m looking forward to joining such bonny couples in matrimony,” he exclaimed in a heavy, Scottish burr.

  He brought them forward to the front of the altar and introduced them to the witnesses, who apparently performed such duties for a good many couples every day. He excused himself for a moment, and then returned in his vestments, carrying a black, theological book. He placed himself behind the altar and began to read the traditional marriage ceremony from the Book of Common Prayer. A pair of witnesses stood on either side of each couple. After vows were exchanged, each couple knelt, and a prayer was recited over them. Upon standing, bouquets were given back to each bride, and the vicar pronounced them husband and wife. Each couple kissed.

  Because Josephine was wearing a true wedding ensemble, complete with a filmy, lace veil, Win lifted it and put his arms around her. The kiss wasn’t the rapid, unromantic buss often seen at weddings. The two exchanged a true, deep, passionate meeting of their lips, holding each other tightly. All formalities were completed, including requirement of their signatures on a marriage license, and those of the witnesses and the vicar. They waited until Andrew and Elisabeth had followed the same procedure. Then the four shook hands with the vicar, accepting his congratulations. Once outside, they kissed fervently, laughing and shouting their happiness.

  “Now we have reservations at a fine restaurant in Gretna Green, known as the Lion’s Inn. It’s one of the oldest spots around—one of the first houses
built here,” Win proclaimed.

  The two couples were so filled with excitement. Dinner wasn’t the primary thing on each of their minds, but tasks had to be completed in proper order. It was traditional to enjoy a lovely dinner after one’s marriage. So they trooped to the quaint, very old restaurant and were shown to a nice table in a quiet, romantic corner. Win ordered a bottle of the finest champagne, as well as a fine tray of hors d'oeuvres. They each studied the menu and settled on selections for a gourmet dinner. When the champagne arrived, the wine steward uncorked the bottle, pouring a glass for Win, since he had placed the order. Win nodded his approval and pronounced it to be excellent, so the steward poured some into each person’s glass. They performed a group toast, wishing each other happiness. The war, looming on the horizon, seemed very remote. Surely, it couldn’t interfere with their happiness.

  Following their truly wonderful dinner, the foursome strolled back to the inn. They climbed the staircase to the second level, where their suites were located. The girls hugged each other, and Win shook Andrew’s hand.

  “It’s been quite a day,” proclaimed Andrew.

  “A wonderful, special day,” added Elisabeth. “August the fourth. Most people will remember it because England declared war against Germany, but I’ll tuck it into my memories as the happiest day of my life.”

  “Yes, I agree completely,” exclaimed Josephine. “Whatever the future brings, I’ll now be Win’s wife. Imagine. This morning I was simply Miss Josephine Chambers. Now, I’m Mrs. Win Winthrop.”

  “No, no, darling. You are the Lady Winterdale, although most people will refer to you as Josephine Winterdale or simply ‘my lady’.”

  “Oh, Lord. I don’t care for the thought of being referred to as the Lady Winterdale. There must be millions of young ladies in this kingdom who would give an arm to become a viscountess. Here I am, complaining. I apologise, Win. Naturally, I’m proud to be your wife, and any title accompanying my marriage to you is an honour.”

  “It’s all right, darling. I understand. It will take some getting used to. You needn’t call me sir—except when we’re in bed, sweetheart.”

  Josephine swatted at him. “Ha! I hope you don’t hold your breath, waiting for that.” She laughed.

  Andrew then spoke. “Well, Elisabeth and I have just the reverse problem. She used to be Lady Elisabeth Bradley. Now she’s simply Mrs. Andrew Chambers.”

  “Oh, no, not really, Andrew. According to the rules of the peerage, I have the right to keep the title of Lady, but it makes no difference to me, whatsoever. I’ve known many, many sons of earls, dukes, and baronets. None were the exceptional gentleman you are, my dear husband.”

  “Uh, oh.” Win laughed. “Are you implying, as the son of an earl, I’m not the catch that Andrew is?”

  “I think you’re perfect for Josephine. However, I also know her feelings about titles. That isn’t the reason she fell in love with you. I think we’re all exactly where we belong, title or no title.” Elisabeth smiled.

  With that, the couples bid each other a good night and made plans to meet for breakfast at nine o’clock the next morning. Then the long drive back to Winthrop-on-Hart would loom ahead.

  Win closed the door of the parlour behind him and Josephine. He then pulled his wife into his arms. Kissing her passionately, he planted little nibbles up and down her neck. Occasionally, he paused, telling her how happy he was and how much he loved her.

  “You’re my soul mate, darling. From tonight, onward, we’ll always be one person, really.”

  She snuggled her head against his coat. “I love you so, Win. I don’t want to think about ever being parted from you. This gruesome war has put a shadow on our union.”

  “Darling, nothing can ever cast a shadow over us. Certainly, I wish we didn’t have to deal with this conflict with Germany. Nonetheless, we’ll face whatever comes, and we’ll face it together. Now, my pet. Wouldn’t you like to be more comfortable out of your marvellous wedding gown? Why don’t you change in the bath? I’ll be waiting for you. Take your time. I won’t be leaving.” He smiled.

  “Yes, darling. I think that’s an excellent suggestion,” she answered.

  They embraced and kissed once again. Then she turned towards the door to the bath, disappearing across the threshold.

  CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

  Josephine emerged a half hour later, resembling a photo in a rather risque women’s periodical. She was clad in a fine, ivory cotton batiste nightdress made of mixed laces and silk. The gown had a square neckline with lace trim. A slight bit of decolletage showed her lovely, well-endowed silhouette. Win was sitting on the sofa, sipping a glass of port. He’d been reading the newspaper. The most recent headlines announced a dire need for all men of fighting age to join the military. He was so relieved about having wed Josephine before having to leave her. He knew he would enlist as soon as they returned. He was certain Andrew would do the same. Neither planned on telling their brides until the actual time arrived.

  When the door had opened, he’d put the newspaper aside and looked towards the doorway. He couldn’t believe the ethereal beauty of the enchanting young lady who was now his wife. She had unpinned her lovely hair, and it fell in ringlets to her shoulders. Her skin looked creamy and soft. He too had changed into pyjamas with the Winthrop monogram on the cuffs. He stood and walked to her.

  “Josephine, you are so beautiful. It’s difficult to believe you’re real, for you look like an angel. Would you like another glass of champagne or something else? There is a small bar in the room.”

  “Yes, I believe I would like that, Win. I might add that you look exceptionally handsome. Seeing the Winthrop monogram on your cuffs makes me realise that my own monogram has changed. Now, instead of JCE, for Josephine Elizabeth Chambers, it will be JBW, for Josephine Chambers Bradley. I like it.”

  Win finished pouring her a flute of champagne. “I like it, too, darling. It signifies that now you’re genuinely my wife. Come, let’s sit together on the sofa. I want you to relax. You aren't worried about our becoming intimate with each other, are you?”

  “No, Win. I love you with all my heart. I’m quite innocent about such matters, but I trust you to know how to proceed.”

  “Is there anything you want to ask me? I do promise I’ll make every effort not to cause you discomfort. You might feel a brief stab of pain, but it will only be momentary. Please tell me if anything upsets you.”

  She snuggled up next to him. “I don’t expect anything to upset me, Win. I look forward to our becoming one.”

  He took the glass of champagne out of her hand, and together with his own glass of Port, placed them on the tea table. Then he put his arms round her and began kissing her tenderly as he ran his hands up and down her soft arms. As the kisses grew more intense, he managed to raise her to a standing position. He began to kiss her a bit below the square neckline of her gown. She leaned into him, and they kissed more fervently.

  “Shall we move to the bedchamber?” he murmured.

  “Yes, my love,” she whispered in return.

  He took her tiny hand and led her to the beautiful, canopied bed. The maid had turned the covers back, so the pristine, linen sheets awaited them. Bending her back against the comforter topping the sheets, Win continued to kiss her with even more desire. She returned his warmth. Soon, they were lying on top of the cool, smooth sheets. Win went further with his kisses, until he had exposed one breast and was able to discern her arousal. After a few more passionate moments, he helped her slip the nightdress over her head, exposing her silken body. Then he continued with kisses as far down as her lithe, tiny waistline. At the same time, he began to stroke her gently in the secret warmth between her legs.

  “Oh, Win! I’ve never felt like this before,” she whispered.

  “I know, darling. Nor have I. You’re my everything. My adorable, angelic wife.”

  Josephine wrapped her arms around her new husband, pulling him close. Soon, he lay on top of her, and the desire she f
elt was overwhelming. She had never experienced anything like it and could think of no words to explain the sensation. He continued kissing her breasts, and she could feel his manliness. Before she had a chance to utter another word, she magically welcomed him into her body. Suddenly, they truly were one. Josephine could never in a million years have described what she felt. There was a brief stab of pain, but it was completely obliterated by the incredible rapture encompassing her entire body. She literally felt as if she were flying. Without any thought, she cried out in wonder.

  ”Oh, my dearest Win. I love you so much. I don’t want this to ever end. I could go on and on like this forever.”

  “Yes, Josephine. I’m exactly where you are, my adorable wife.”

  Together they reached the pinnacle of passion.

  Afterwards, they lay in each other’s arms as their breathing slowly returned to normal, and they revelled in the warmth of each other’s body.

  “Did I cause you discomfort, my pet?” Win whispered.

  “Win, whatever slight discomfort lasted only a second. I’d endure ten times that much to experience the intensity that followed. Will it always be this way?”

  “It will grow in intensity, darling. The first time usually isn’t very pleasant for a woman. I’m so glad it was for you. I promise, it will grow more and more blissful as we become used to each other as lovers.”

  “I can’t imagine anything more divine than what I’ve just experienced. I absolutely feel as if we are solely one person, and we always shall be.”

  “We shall be, my precious. For the rest of our lives.”

  *****

  Win, Josephine, Andrew, and Elisabeth all stepped out of the Rolls in front of the imposing facade of majestic Winthrop Manor. It wasn’t quite cocktail hour, but 5:30 p.m. when they arrived. Both of the young newlywed brides peeked in the small, compact mirrors they carried, refreshing lip rouge and powdering their noses. Josephine tucked a few stray hairs under the fetching creme-coloured beret she wore, which matched her simple suit of the same colour. Elisabeth wore a sunny-yellow linen chemise with matching coat. They both looked extremely happy. On the left hand of each was an eye-catching wedding band. The same applied to the men. Win glanced at Josephine and saw she was nervously nibbling her bottom lip.