The Visit
By
Julie D Cole
…………………………………………………
Based on story I read that was written many years ago and has sadly by now probably been long forgotten. Intro ;
My first attempt at a historical drama based in London where the central character inherited his aunts features and switches between his male and female sides after accepting he could also inherit her wealth. His aunt encourages him to stay in London after seeing he is more like her than his own parents and he doesn't need much persuading since he is closer to a young woman he met in his own city of Bristol whilst she was apparently on a business trip. She has inherited her fathers business and majority share in certain property originally owned by her grandfather.
She is in the habit of masquerading as the grandson so her personality has had to change as Roberts also changes.
His aunt seemingly has always been a spinster but was very successful after she moved to London.
Can a relationship develop and can it survive with the changes in role and the struggle to hold on to family assets and inheritances for the two of them.
The full story unfolds during the course of what Robert expected to be an impromptu visit.
The Visit
By
Julie D Cole
…………………………………………………
Based on story I read that was written many years ago and has sadly by now probably been long forgotten. Intro ;
My first attempt at a historical drama based in London where the central character inherited his aunts features and switches between his male and female sides after accepting he could also inherit her wealth. His aunt encourages him to stay in London after seeing he is more like her than his own parents and he doesn't need much persuading since he is closer to a young woman he met in his own city of Bristol whilst she was apparently on a business trip. She has inherited her fathers business and majority share in certain property originally owned by her grandfather.
She is in the habit of masquerading as the grandson so her personality has had to change as Roberts also changes.
His aunt seemingly has always been a spinster but was very successful after she moved to London.
Can a relationship develop and can it survive with the changes in role and the struggle to hold on to family assets and inheritances for the two of them.
The full story unfolds during the course of what Robert expected to be an impromptu visit.
…………………………………………………
Chapter I
This was the first communication that had come from his aunt in
Robert’s lifetime.
“I think your aunt has forgiven me, at last,” his father said as he passed the letter across the table.
Robert looked first at the signature. It seemed strange to see her name was Roberta but the likeness to his own signature was uncanny. But for the trailing ‘a’ it was identical. The same characteristic turn in the looping of the letters, a hint of the same decisiveness and precision.
If Robert had been educated fifty years earlier, when quills and ink pots were common he might have written his name in just that manner and used blotting paper to remove the excess ink to avoid smudges.
“You’re very like her in many ways,” his father said, as he still stared at the signature.
Robert’s eyelids drooped and his expression indicated a faint, suppressed intolerance of his father’s remark. He said the same things so often, and in so precisely the same tone, that he had formed a habit of automatically rejecting the truth of certain of his statements.
He had always appeared to him as senile. He had been over fifty when Robert was born, and ever since he could remember he had doubted the correctness of his information. He was, he had often told himself, “a born sceptic; an ultra-modern.” He had a certain veneration for the more distant past, but none for his father’s period. “Victorianism” was to him a term of abuse.
He had long since condemned alike the ethic and the aesthetic of the nineteenth century as represented by his father’s opinions; so, that, even now, when his familiar comment coincided so queerly with his own thought, he instinctively disbelieved him. Yet, as always, he was polite in his answer. He condescended from the heights of his youth and vigour to pity him.
“I should think you must almost have forgotten what Aunt Roberta was like,” Robert said. “How many years is it since you’ve seen her?”
“More than forty,” his father said, ruminating profoundly. “We disagreed, we invariably disagreed. Robert always prided himself on being so modern. He liked modern fashion and modern literature and to keep himself abreast of news and topical events. His father would still have oil lamps and candles and cook by the hearth were it not for him. Nevertheless he was partial to his father’s rabbit stew and the oven cakes he made.
Robert straightened his shoulders and lifted his head standing as tall and square as he could given his slight frame and lack of height. There was disdain in his face, but none in his voice as he replied:
“And so it seems that she wants to see me.”
He was excited at the thought of meeting this traditional, this almost mythical aunt whom he had so often heard about. Sometimes he had wondered if the personality of this remarkable relative had not been a figment of his father’s imagination, long pondered, and reconstructed out of half-forgotten material. But this letter of hers that now lay on the breakfast table was admirable in character.
There was something of condescension and intolerance expressed in the very restraint of its tone. She had written a kindly letter, but the kindliness had an air of pity. It was all consistent enough with what her father had told him.
Mr. Deane senior came out of his reminiscences with a sigh.
“Yes, yes; she wants to see you, my boy,” he said. “I think you had better accept this invitation to stay with her. She—she is rich, almost wealthy; and I, as you know, have practically nothing to leave you—practically nothing. If she took a fancy to you…. ? ”
He sighed again, and Robert knew that for the hundredth time he was regretting his own past weakness. He had been so foolish in money matters, frittering away his once considerable capital in aimless speculations. He and his sister had shared equally under their father’s will, but while he had been at last compelled to sink the greater part of what was left to him in an annuity, she had probably increased her original inheritance a hundredfold by now at the very least.
“I’ll certainly go, if you can spare me for a whole fortnight,” Robert said. “I’m all curiosity to see this remarkable aunt. By the way, how old is she?”
“There were only fifteen months between us,” Mr. Deane senior said, “so she must be,—dear me, yes;—she must be seventy-three. Dear, dear. Fancy Roberta being seventy-three! I always think of her as being about your age. It seems so absurd to think of her as old….”
He continued his reflections, but Robert was not listening. By now Mr Deane senior was asking for the understanding of the young; quite unaware of his senility, reaching out over half a century to try to touch the comprehension and sympathy of his son. But he was already bent on his own adventure, looking forward eagerly to a visit to London that promised delights other than the inspection of the mysterious, traditional aunt whom he had so long known by report.
For this invitation had come very aptly. Robert pondered that, later in the morning, with a glow of ecstatic resignation to his charming fate. He found the guiding hand of a romantic inevitability in the fact that he and a new beautiful, nee handsome acquaintance Ms Adele Flemming were to meet so soon. It had seemed so unlikely that they would see each other again for many months.
They had only met three times; but they knew that there was a connection even though their friendship had been too green for either of them to admit this before she had gone back to town. Yet she was different from other women he’d met. Stronger and slightly taller than Robert and often cocking an eye at some of the young ladies they met whilst out together.
Robert never commented and in his opinion Adele was clearly not going to change or feel embarrassed at being ignored . The ladies would giggle and enjoyed the flattery of Adele. She had the same effect on him as it happened and he wondered why she didn’t tease him about it. Fortunately such incidents occurred in private moments rather than in public.
She had such an effect on him that he wanted to share his feelings so Robert had, indeed, hinted far more in his two letters than he had ever dared to say face to face. He was indeed very sensitive, he lacked self-confidence; but Adele seemed to adore him for just those failings he criticised so often in his father. She had responded quite openly and it was clear that she was of strong character and was enjoying a certain freedom that was unusual in these times for a young woman.
He took out her letters and re-read them, thrilling with the realization that in his next letter he would have such a perfectly amazing surprise for her. He would refer to it quite casually, somewhere near the end to gauge her interest in him.
He decided he would write: “By the way, it’s just possible that we may meet again before long as I am going to stay with my aunt, Miss Deane, in Tavistock Square.” She would understand all that lay behind such an apparently careless reference, for he had told her that he “never went to London,” and had only once in his life ever been there.
He was in his own room later, and he stood, now, before the cheval glass and studied himself; raising his chin and slightly pursing his lips, staring superciliously at his own image under half-lowered eyelids. Candidly, he admired himself; because his hair was soft and silken, his nose was small and delicate unlike his fathers and his waist was slim and he naturally placed a hand on his hip in a natural way. When he turned he could not help but see more feminine than masculine features that worried him somewhat because within the prior months there was no sign of the muscles he’d expected to develop by now and if anything his more feminine features seemed to be more pronounced.
His chest was not broad and strong as others of his age and were it not for the tight waistcoat restraining him he was sure there were mounds beneath his shirt. He unbuttoned the waistcoat and the top buttons of his shirt that brought a feeling of comfort. He was bigger than the day before. Could this be happening before his very eyes? There was sign of a cleavage now and a softness of his breast area and tenderness of his nipples. When he’d stripped to bathe in the river with friends several had remarked that unlike them he was free of any body hair.
He fastened the buttons and pulled tight the waistcoat that was in need of adjustment at the back. His chest was bigger for sure. At least the waistcoat gave him confidence in his masculinity ; hiding that annoying shadow of doubt which sometimes fell upon him when he caught sight of his reflection by chance and unexpectedly.
But no thought of doubt flawed his satisfaction this day. A sense of power came to him, a tranquil realization that despite his tender frame he could charm Adele as well as any man could. But even so with a somewhat graceful, habitual gesture he put up his hand and lightly touched his cheek with a soft, caressing movement of his finger-tips. Not unlike the softness of his mother and free of any signs of beard growth. Lucky in some respects since he’d never had to use a cut throat razor but at the same time feeling somewhat inadequate. He was a late developer for sure.
Arriving at Tavistock Square
The elderly parlour-maid showed Robert straight to his bedroom when he arrived at Tavistock Square, indicating on the way the extensive-looking first-floor drawing-room, in which tea and his first sight of the wonderful aunt would await Robert in half an hour. He had been eager and excited. The air and promise of London had thrilled him, but he found some influence in the atmosphere of the big house that was vaguely repellent, almost sinister.
His bedroom was expensively furnished and beautifully kept; some of the pieces were, he supposed, genuine antiques, perhaps immensely valuable. But how could he ever feel at home there? He was hampered by the necessity for moving circumspectly among this aged delicate stuff; so wonderfully preserved and yet surely fragile and decrepit at the heart. The distinct and beautiful furniture pieces ought to be taking their well-earned leisure in some museum. It would be indecent to write at the desk or sit on the small chair beside it. They were relics of the past, foolishly pretending an ability for service when their life had been sapped by dry-rot and their original functions outlived.
“Well, if ever I have a house of my own,” Robert thought regarding these ancient splendours, “I’ll furnish it with something I shan’t be afraid of.”
With a gesture of dismissal he turned and looked out of the window. From the square came the sounds of a motor drawing up at a neighboring house; He heard the throbbing of the engine, the slam of the door, and then the strong, sonorous tones of a man’s voice. That was his proper environment he reflected, among the strong vital things. Even after twenty minutes in that bedroom he had begun to feel as if he himself was also beginning to suffer from dry-rot….
He was anxious and uneasy as he went slowly downstairs to the drawing-room. His anticipations of this meeting with his intimidating, wealthy aunt had changed within the last half-hour. His first idea of Miss Deane had been of a robust, stout woman, frank in her speech and inclined to be very critical of the newly found nephew whom she had chosen to inspect. Now, he was prepared rather to expect a fragile, rather peevish old lady, older even than her years; an aunt to be talked to in a lowered voice and treated with the same delicate care that must be extended to her furniture.
Robert paused with his hand on the drawing-room door, and sighed at the thought of all the repressions and nervous strains that this visit might have in store for him. Were it not for the attraction of London and particularly of Adele he may not be there.
She entered the room almost on tiptoe, and then stood stock-still, suddenly shocked and bewildered with surprise. Whatever he had expected, it was not this. For a moment he was unable to believe that the sprightly, painted and slim figure before him could possibly be that of his aunt. Her head was crowned with an exuberant brown wig; her eyebrows were strong, much stronger than his, her hollow cheeks smoothed with powder, her lips brightened to a fantastic deep red. And she was posed there, standing before the tea-table with her head a little back, looking at her nephew with a tolerant condescension, with the air of a superb young beauty, self-conscious and proud of her charms.
“Hmm! So you’re my semi-mythical nephew, or is it niece? Pray it’s hard to tell in those clothes. ” she said, pulling up her skirts as she stepped towards him. He stepped from behind the table to display his breeches beneath his bright blue tailored long coat.
“I’m glad at any rate to find that you’re not, after all, a fabulous creature.” She spoke in a high, rather thin voice that produced an effect of effort, as if she were playing on the top octave of a flute.
Robert had never in his life felt so awkward. To be mistaken for a girl. Surely not? He looked towards the mirror above the dresser. He could see instantly why his aunt may have been confused and he tried to alter his stance and folded his arms across his chest and tried to lift himself a few inches. He felt he had to answer because her look was so intense.
“Yes—I—you know, aunt, I had begun to wonder if you were not fabulous, too,” he tried, desperately anxious to seem at ease. But despite coughing slightly his voice sounded two octaves higher than normal and so he tried to clear his throat. His nervousness was having a strange effect on him and he found himself blushing. He was afraid to look at her in the eye. At the same time afraid to show, by some unconscious reflex, his nervousness and fear to speak of her ugliness. As he took the bony, ring-bedecked hand that was held out to him, he tried as hard as he could to keep his eyes away from his aunt’s face.
Miss Deane, however, would not permit that evasion.
“Hold your head up, my dear, I want to look at you,” she said, and when Robert reluctantly obeyed, continued, “Yes, you’re more like my mother than you are of your own, which means that you’re like me, for I took after her too, so everyone said. She was beautiful as was I.”
Robert drew in his breath with a little gasp. Was it possible that her aunt could imagine for one instant that there was any likeness to a woman or in deed between them? He tried to change the subject.
“Our—our names are almost exactly the same,” he said nervously. “Could it be I was named after you?”
Miss Deane nodded. “There’s more in it than that,” she said with a touch of complacence; “and there’s no reason why there shouldn’t be. It’s good ‘Mendelism’ that you should take after an aunt rather than either of your parents. I can’t see any resemblance to your mother. She was not very beautiful and indeed it was a surprise your father was so attracted to her.”
Robert had once heard such a phrase as Mendalism so he had an inkling of what she was talking about. He smiled a little as if he fully understood.
“And you really think that we are alike?” he asked feebly, looking in vain for any sign of a quizzical humor in his aunt’s face.
Miss Deane looked down under her half-lowered eyelids with a proud air of tolerance. “Ah, well, a little without doubt,” she said, as though the advantages of the difference were on her own side.
“Now sit down and have some tea, my dear.”
Robert obeyed sat somewhat demurely on the edge of the chair that appeared in front of him rather than sit legs apart in confident manner as accepted of a man of his age who might display his masculinity to the full in tight breeches. He turned a little to the side and crossed his legs much like his mother had taught him sitting back straight with his hands together.
He glanced towards his aunt and had a wonder in his mind as to why that look of tolerance should be so familiar. It seemed to him as if it was something he had felt rather than seen; and as tea progressed he found himself half furtively studying the raddled ugliness of his aunt’s face in the search for possible relics of a beautiful youth. Surely they were not alike. Where, how?
“Ah, I think you’re beginning to see it, too,” Miss Deane said, marking her nephew’s scrutiny. “It grows on one, doesn’t it?”
Robert shivered slightly. “Yes, it does,” he said experimentally, watching his aunt’s face for some indication of a malicious teasing humor. It seemed to him so incredible that this hideous person could honestly believe that any physical likeness existed.
Miss Deane, however, was faintly simpering. “I have been told that I’ve changed very little,” she said; and Robert suppressed a sigh of impatience at the reflection that she was expected to play up to this absurd fantasy.
“Of course, I can’t judge of that,” he said, “as we met for the first time five minutes ago.”
“No, no, you can’t judge of that,” his aunt replied, with the half-bashful emphasis of one who awaits a compliment.
Robert decided to plunge. “But you do look extraordinarily young for your age still,” he lied desperately.
Miss Deane straightened her back and toyed with a teaspoon. “I have always taken great care of myself,” she said.
Unquestionably she believed it, Robert decided. This was no pose, but a horrible piece of self-deception. This unfortunate reclusive and somewhat repulsive creature had actually persuaded herself into the delusion that she still had the appearance of a young girl. Heaven help her if that delusion were ever shattered!
Yet outside this one obsession Miss Deane, as Robert soon discovered, had a clear and well-balanced mind. For, now that she had received her desired assurance from this new quarter, she began to talk of other things. Her boasted “modernism,” it is true, had a smack of the stiff, broadcloth savor of earlier years, but she had a point of view that coincided far more nearly with Robert’s own than did that of his father. His aunt, at least, had outlived the worst superstitions and inanities of the mid-Victorians.
Indeed, by the time tea was finished Robert’s spirits were beginning to revive. He would have to be very careful in his treatment of his aunt, but on the whole it would not perhaps be so bad; and presently he would see Adele again. He would almost certainly get a letter from her by the last post, making some appointment to meet him, and after that he would introduce her to Miss Deane. He had a feeling that Miss Deane would not raise any objection; that she might even welcome the visit of a young woman to her house removing any concerns she might have formed about his masculinity.
The time was passing so easily that Robert was surprised when he heard the gong sound.
“Does that mean it’s time to dress for dinner already?” she asked.
Miss Deane nodded. “You’ve an hour before dinner,” she said, “but I’ll go up now. I like to be leisurely over my toilet.”
She rose as she spoke, but as she crossed the room, she paused with what seemed to be a little jerk of surprise as she caught sight of her own reflection in another strategically placed tall mirror above one of the gilt-legged console tables against the wall.
Then she deliberately stopped, turned and surveyed herself, half contemptuously, under lowered eyelids, with a set of her head and back that belied plainly enough the pout of her critical lips. And having admired that haggard image, she lifted her wasted hand and delicately touched her whitened, hollow cheeks with the tips of her heavily jeweled fingers.
The Visit
by
JulieDCole
Chapter II
Robert stared in horror. It seemed to him just then as if the reflection of his aunt in the mirror was indeed that of himself grown instantly and mysteriously old.
For now, whether because the reversal of the image by the mirror or because of that perfect duplication of his own characteristic pose and gesture, the likeness had flashed out clear and unmistakable. He saw that his father had been right. Once, incalculable ages ago, he felt that this old woman might well have been very like himself that brought a shiver down his spine.
He slipped quickly out of the room and ran upstairs as fast as his tight breeches would allow. He felt that he must instantly put that question to the test and search himself for the signs of coming age as he had just searched his aunt’s face for the indications of her former youth.
But when he scrutinized his reflection in the tall cheval glass, the likeness appeared to have vanished. He saw the normal reflection of a young and slim man, blond hair pulled neatly back and secured with a black velvet bow and his head thrust a little forward with a small upturned nose, slight chin and moist lips. But there was also there was indeed some presence of a young woman, in his whole pose. When he placed his hands on his hips his feminine side was accentuated and in a way this seemed to be more of his natural stance. He looked at his expression and whole projection and the long coat suited his slender features. There was also an air of vigorous defiance much like he had seen in his aunt.
Since he was so entranced by his appearance he was at least now prepared to accept his aunts comment and admit that he might be viewed a handsome young man or perhaps he could easily be mistaken for an independent and beautiful woman . He looked attractive in either guise perhaps, yet whatever, no semblance of his mother who perhaps was not so beautiful as his aunt might have been in younger days as a working woman. But she had been a loving, caring mother and a good wife so he concluded it was an unnecessary comment of a jealous aunt, not married and wihout child.
At that moment, if the semblance was more of the other person that he had seen downstairs then he definitely might age as she had done with no softness to hold on to, or kindness in her eyes, an aged look with beauty faded long ago. No, surely No!
He drew himself up to give himself a little more confidence, more than a little relieved by the result of his test. The likeness was all a fancy he reckoned, the result of suggestions, first by his father and then by Miss Deane herself. And he need at least have no fear that he was aging yet so he might find happiness and a partner and income enough in life to keep his youthful zest and feed from happiness.
He removed the bow and let his hair hang loose and shook his head to bring it back to life. His aunt was surely wrong. With longer hair and some powder on his cheeks why couldn’t he be beautiful if he so wished. Why should she say he was ugly?
He paused for a moment to look harder. The light died out of his face. His image was looking back at him with a distinct feminine air, nose cocked, arms embracing a bosom staring stiffly, superciliously , with, so it seemed to him, the contemptible simper of a young woman who still fatuously admires the thing that has long since lost its charm. No sign of the Robert of a few years ago. Something was happening to him or was it just he’d never looked deeply into the mirrors at home that were sparse. He caught his breath and clenched his hands, drawing down his rather meek looking eyebrows in an expression of angry scorn.
“Oh my goodness who are you? Never, never, never again, will I look at myself and never will I let myself turn into someone like that woman. I have to take more care of myself and focus on finding opportunities during this visit ,” Robert vowed fiercely.
He was to find, however, before this first evening was over, that the mere avoidance of that one pose before the mirror would not suffice to quell his urge for experimentation or to lay the ghost of the suspicions that was beginning to haunt him about the aging process.
He felt he might find time to explore this other more feminine side of him because of the feelings it had created inside him and the beauty that might be hidden. He removed his waistcoat and unbuttoned his shirt. Yes maybe he could easily be mistaken for a young woman of mischief dressing in tight breeches. He could imagine himself as a boyish featured woman and even Roberta junior if that was to Roberta senior’s preference. Maybe she would have preferred a niece. Who knows what was in her mind. Was she jealous or did she want Robert to be the young woman she once was and the daughter she never had? Surely not. Why was he suddenly having such thoughts and ideas?
At the very outset a new version of the likeness was presented to him when, during the first course of dinner, Miss Deane, with a lowering frown of her blackened eyebrows, found occasion to reprimand the elderly parlor-maid.
For a moment Robert was again puzzled by the intriguing sense of the familiar, before he remembered his own scowl at the looking-glass an hour before. “Do I really frown like that?” he thought. And on the instant found himself feeling like his aunt.
That, indeed, was the horror that, despite every effort of resistance, deepened steadily as the evening wore on. Miss Deane had, without question, lost every trace of her beauty; but her character, her spirit was unchanged, and it was, so Robert increasingly believed, the very spit and replica of his own.
They had the same characteristic gestures and expressions; the look of kindly tolerance with which her aunt regarded Robert was precisely the same as that with which Robert regarded his father. When his aunt’s voice dropped in speaking from the rather shrill, strained tone that was obviously not natural to her, Robert heard the inflexions of his own voice. And as his knowledge of Miss Deane grew, so, also, did that haunting unpleasant feeling of looking and speaking in precisely the same manner.
It seemed to him as if he were being invaded by an alien personality; as if the character he had known and cherished all his life were no longer his own, but merely a casual inheritance from some unknown ancestor. His very integrity was threatened by his consciousness of that likeness, his pride of individuality. He was not, after all, a unique personality, but merely another version—if he were even that?—of a Master or nay, even Miss Robert Deane, born in the middle of the previous century.
Moreover, with that growing recognition of likeness in character, there came the thought that he in time might look even as his aunt looked at this present moment. After all he had seen his body changing and was feeling strange some days. He didn’t feel so strong as he had felt in younger days and he tired easily if taking exercise or attempting to move domestic items. What would Adele think of him like this? What if he were to lose his youthful boyish features and what if he took on even more feminine appearance and even looked like his aunt once looked.
Perhaps he also would lose his handsome features, the softness and his perceived beauty, until no facial resemblance could be traced between the hag she became and the man or even the beauty he/she had once been. For, through all her torment, Robert still proudly clung to the certainty that, physically at least, there was no sort of likeness between his aunt and himself. He was after all a man as already proven to Adele even his attempts to please her had so far been rather feeble.
Miss Deane’s belief in that matter, however, was soon proved to be otherwise; for when they were alone together in the drawing-room after dinner, and the topic so inevitably present to both their minds came to the surface of conversation, she unexpectedly said: “But we’re evidently the poles apart in character and manner, my dear.”
“Oh! Do you think so?” Robert exclaimed. “I—it’s a queer thing to say perhaps—but I curiously feel like you, aunt; when you speak sometimes and—and when I watch the way you do things.”
Miss Deane shook her head. “I admit some similarities but see no physical resemblance at all with you dressed that way,” she said; “so, my dear, we are utterly different.”
Did she too, Robert wondered, see him as a niece not as her nephew and what did she mean dressed like that?
By the last post Robert received his expected letter from Adele Flemming. His aunt separated it from the others brought in by her maid and passed it across to her nephew with a slight hint of displeasure in her face. “MISTER Robert Deane, junior,” she said.
“Really, it hadn’t occurred to me how difficult it will be to distinguish our letters. I hope my friends won’t take to addressing me as Miss Deane, senior. Properly, of course, I am Miss Deane, and you Mr. Robert not Miss Roberta, but I’ll admit there’s sure to be some confusion with our names so similar and especially if you dress so, that you might feel is fashionable but many might consider feminine. “What do you think my sweet Robert? “
Robert felt awkward with this constant attack on his masculinity. But for some reason it didn’t feel uncomfortable. He had a desire to see if he looked better as a woman rather than as an effeminate man but no such opportunity was likely.
Miss Deane suddenly announced “Now, my dear, I expect you’re tired. You’d better run up to bed. My maid has un-packed your cases and hung your garbs. She will have placed a warm pan beneath the sheets and laid out suitable attire. ”
Robert was willing enough to go. He was glad to have an opportunity to read Adele’s letter in solitude; he was even more glad to get away from the company of this living supposed aged echo of himself. “I believe I should go mad if I had to live with her,” he reflected. “I would get into the way of emulating her. I should worry about how I might become more of a woman if I lived here and then to age like her, growing old before my time.” He realized this was all in his mind.
When he reached his bedroom, he put down the letter unopened on the dressing table and once more stared searchingly at his own reflection in the mirror. Was there any least trace of a physical likeness to his aunt he asked himself; and began in imagination to follow the possible stages of the change that time would inevitably work upon himself becoming more womanly at each stage. He shrugged his shoulders. If there were indeed any sort of facial resemblance between himself and his aunt, surely no one would ever see it except in Miss Deane, and she seemed obsessed with a senile vanity. Yet was it, after all, Robert was beginning to wonder if this was an unnatural obsession. Might he not in time suffer from it himself?
The change in his appearance as he aged might be so slow like his aunt might have encountered, so infinitely gradual; and always one would be cherishing the old, loved image of youth and beauty, falling in love with it, like a deluded flower, and coming to be deceived by the fantasy of an unchanging appearance of youth.
Looking always for the desired thing, he would suffer from the hallucination that the thing existed in fact. If indeed the changes extended to some form of prolonged appearance of womanhood he imagined that like his aunt the only artifice needed to perfect the illusion was a touch of paint and powder. What strange thoughts seemed to be going through his mind since he arrived at Tavistock Square.
No doubt in his mind that his aunt—perhaps searching her own image in the mirror at this moment—saw not herself but a picture of her nephew not as Robert but as Roberta her niece. A strange situation in deed and it brought a slight shudder and a puzzled expression on his face.
Somehow now she was hypnohypnotizedhe suggestion of a pose and the desire of her own mind. In time, Robert himself might also become the victim of a similar illusion! God forbid such a thing might happen .
Oh! It was horrible! With yet another shudder, he picked up the letter and turned away from the looking-glass. He would forget that ghastly warning in the thought of the joys proper to his youth. He would think of Adele and of his next meeting with her. He opened her letter to find that she had, rather timorously, suggested that they should meet the next afternoon—at the Marble Arch at three o’clock, if he heard nothing further in the meantime. She was quite bold to invite him rather than the other way around. Maybe this was normal in London Town he thought. At home it was not acceptable behavior. What would his father think indeed?
For a few minutes he lost himself again in delighted anticipation, and then slowly, insidiously, a new speculation crept into his mind. What would be the effect upon Adele if she saw him and her aunt together? Would she recognize the likeness and, anticipating the movement of more than half a century, see him in one amazing moment as he would likely as not eventually become?
He needed time to think and to prepare himself for his meeting with Adele. He needed to take special care of his appearance to put as great a distance between their two faces as possible.
There was a knock on the door and the Parlor maid entered without any care of the state of his undress. By now he was already stripped to the waist so he grabbed his shirt to cover his developing breasts. Her eyes focused immediately and the mere act of bending to pick up his undershirt made matters worse.
She spoke out to say “Excuse me ma’am but Miss Deane asked me to draw a bath for you and prepare suitable attire for a good night’s rest. I fear I made a mistake because of your attire today and it appears that the wrong cases were unloaded from the train.” She assumed that he was indeed a niece rather than nephew.
In a moment of nervousness he decided for some strange reason to apologies rather than to suggest that her eyes had deceived her. He had immediate need to find explanation of the bosom on display and as a young man he could think of no greater shame.
For some reason he decided to accept her assumption so he told her that he found it easier and safer to dress as a man whilst travelling and especially alone on a visit to London. Also he asked that she might understand her dilemma and help him to carry on his disguise a little longer. Since his aunt already appeared confused he explained it would not be of consequence and the likelihood was that she might get worse if he changed to his normal garb as Roberta. It seemed to work and so now to her he was Roberta disguising himself as a man.
It would certainly help since the maid would be no longer embarrassed to come to his room and whilst taking his bath he did not have to disguise his developing breasts.
As he lay back to soak she tended him. It was a nice experience for him to be free of tight restraints and especially she then assisted him to wash his hair and remove as much of the surplus soap suds as possible. She could not help but comment on his lack of development and as she tended them she offered some ideas how Roberta might benefit from a change in diet and then even pregnancy if she had a candidate in mind. Roberta felt her cheeks become warm and her nipples seemed to harden. It didn’t go unnoticed.
The maid then indicated her work was done so she held a large towel as he stepped out of the water as discreetly as possible and at least she averted her eyes. He had tried to tuck himself and it seemed to work. But he didn’t have to worry so he moved to the stool besides the fire whilst she brought more fresh towels to his aid and finally a dressing gown appeared. It was warm and comfortable but clearly not that of any male guest who had visited.
For thirty minutes or so Polly brushed his hair as it dried by the fireside. He’d never had such an experience before and he found himself becoming even more the woman Roberta that Polly saw before her as they chattered. He found out that Polly had worked at the house for more than twenty years and how she found Aunt Roberta was deteriorating and suffering from illusions. Still she said that Miss Deane retained her strong character and it would help to have a niece to talk with. She hoped Roberta would present herself properly indoors in front of her aunt whatever she might decide whilst out in the town.
When they returned to the bedroom Polly had replaced the gentleman’s night gown with one more akin to that of a female guest and brought some under garments from some store area that was on the upper floor. Robert declined her assistance to help him change to the nightdress and she then placed the under garments to air by the fire ready for the next day. Polly seemed to have accepted that Robert was a woman and so he had looked into the glass once more. His hair had been brushed and now had a natural curl. It was styled very much as a young woman might style it and he felt now that his aunt was wrong to cast him as ugly. He was intrigued at the image and Polly had made several complementary remarks saying Miss Deane had a similar look in her younger days even at the age of fifty tears.
Robert was tired and he needed sleep. The two goblets of red wine and the glass of port were laying heavily on his stomach and he felt a little drunk. He thought this was part of the reason for the devil in him admitting to being a woman in men’s garb. He soon fell into a deep sleep as Polly extinguished the lights and placed a guard in front of the fire. Tomorrow he would be seeing Adele and he had to present as himself and seek the assistance of Polly to remain discreet. Polly now seemed intent on him wearing female underwear beneath his breeches and shirt and had the notion that she could find a way to fit a tight corset to retain his breasts and hold him as straight as a man should be.
He had little choice but what would Adele think if she saw him now? What of her lover sleeping in female nightdress and wearing ladies undergarments. And for Robert tomorrow’s first task was to decide how best to pull back and straighten his hair after Polly had gone to so much trouble to pretty it. For now as he lay asleep Polly looked on and in the light of the last flickers of firelight and the lamp she carried couldn't help but say to herself how beautiful this young woman was and how much a shame it was she should not display herself accordingly.
Robert slept soundly with his arms wrapped around a large pillow no doubt comforted as he pressed his developing breasts against it.
The Visit – Chapter 3
By
JulieDCole
When Polly arrived with hot tea the next morning Robert was still sound asleep. As Polly opened the heavy drapes the sun shone directly on his face and he stirred turning and rubbing his eyes and saw the smiling face of Polly in front of him. She whispered gently “ Good morning Miss Deane, I am required to let you know that Miss Deane senior is already in the garden room awaiting your arrival so you take breakfast together. I have served her a fresh fusion of tea and she is being amused by the morning chorus and the obituary section of today’s edition of ‘the Times’.
Robert sat up in bed and quickly pulled his nightdress into place because his breasts were clearly protruding and he wasn’t used to such like of privacy when he stirred of a morning. The protrusions were in fact what had confused Polly yet today he didn’t seem to mind because he felt relaxed and he imagined what it must feel like to be a lady of leisure living as house guest of his aunt. He felt she already appeared confused and needed some care that a daughter or niece might provide in whom she might confide and who might offer guidance on delicate matters. He sat up and looked in the glass across the room. He saw a young woman staring back at him. Would she be happier with a niece as a companion in her final years. If only he could change things and if only his aunt could accept a nephew might be better than nothing. If so could this mean he could stay in London close to Adele and even inherit her aunt’s estate? Certainly this was an intriguing prospect and he could resign from the slavery working in his father’s business.
Polly placed extra cushions behind him. He felt different and hadn’t expected that he would feel comfortable sleeping in a nightdress that he put down to the excitement brought on by alcohol rather than any desire on his part. Polly clearly believed him to be masquerading as Robert from her behavior towards him since she treated him in a very friendly way, less respectful but nevertheless courteously, and checked on the chamber pot beneath the bed in case he had filled it. If he hadn’t needed during the night he was ready now so she helped him out of bed and into a silk dressing gown and quaint slippers.
Robert hurried to the toilet that was handily positioned on the first floor landing and closed and locked the door behind him as a precaution in case Polly was on hand to assist that he certainly wished to avoid at all costs.
It seemed only natural to hitch up the gown and nightdress and it was clearly more sensible to be seated through the whole ablution. There was a long glass behind the door so he looked at his reflection. He could only see Roberta with hardly a trace of Robert. But sadly he had no time to dally to carry out a more detailed survey since his aunt was waiting. He tucked his blond locks behind his ears to be sure that Robert was not lost but his expanding bosom also needed tucking out of the way.
There was a sharp knock on the door from Polly for Robert was dallying too long in the closet and needed to hurry to breakfast since he had a busy day ahead and his aunt was not used to waiting. Polly ushered him back to his bedroom where she had filled a wash stand with warm water to enable him to clean the sleepiness from his face and freshen his body. Polly busied herself but kept a watchful eye on her/him since she felt that there was an air about him that was similar to Miss Deane senior. She watched his/her movements and the techniques he/she used to clean him/herself. But for the age difference they could have been twins. They were so alike in many ways.
Polly helped Robert dress that was quite a challenge for him as she fussed to tidy his frontage admiring whatever Robert was using to display manhood. Her touch brought some sort of response that he joked was a trick.
The freshly laundered breeches clung to him and displayed a tight pair of buttocks that were then discreetly covered by a smock coat. Polly selected a fresh bow to tie his hair back that he slicked with water to rid of the soft locks from the night before. He was a man again and Polly was quite impressed even if he was more delicate than her husband and brothers. Robert, the man, was a shade too pretty she felt to carry the masquerade for too long. No sign of roughness and quite delicate with the movements of a well-educated young lady she’d had a gentle upbringing she concluded and quite what possessed her to travel in male garb was beyond her comprehension.
As Robert finally entered the garden room his aunt displayed her impatience and a small bout of her bad temper. Robert felt he needed to take care to avoid any repetition for the rest of the visit and tried to comment on the sunshine and the wonderful walled garden and the array of plants and flowers. Miss Deane would have none of it and, in any case, what a terrible lack of manners to keep a lady waiting. She reminded him several times not to dally again and be sure to arrive early to the meeting place so Adele wasn’t in danger. Of course Robert knew full well that Adele was quite capable of looking after herself and moeso than him from his observations the first time they met.
Once he had seen Miss Deane again all thoughts of Adele and indeed his experience of being treated as a young woman by Polly disappeared from his mind. Robert’s mind went back to his first sight of his aunt the evening before. Every gesture she made served to remind him of that repulsive image of raddled, deluded age she’d displayed.. It might well be that, in time, he would face this same problem and he was certainly much more fearful of accelerated aging as his aunt seemed to have experienced now that he had met with her at long last. He wished he had resisted the temptation to visit London to meet Adele that would have avoided the direct contact. Better if Adele had come to Bristol instead.
Now he felt that he wanted to leave the house as soon as possible in order to meet Adele and he decided that as soon as he could get the chance he would give his apologies. But his aunt seemed intent of chatting after the breakfast plates were removed and clearly had nothing else to do until lunch and then to meet her friends of The Women’s Institute that he needed to avoid at all costs. So that day Robert decided that he would not be inviting Miss Adele to meet his aunt whatever..
Robert readied himself before his taxi arrived. At least Miss Deane had the kindness to cover this expense and he felt that perhaps she had a soft heart after all. Unless of course, there was another motive for her generosity. Could it be to see Robert safely arrive at his destination or could it be just because she had delayed him. Or could it even be because she wanted him to look eligible and therefore suitable to be married? There didn’t seem to be a logical explanation he could find in his mind.
Looking in the glass again he knew he wanted Adele to see him now whilst he was looking so fine and at his prime. Especially that very day since his look was more of a gentleman with a good finish of prosperity thanks to Polly’s attention, rather than the look whilst enslaved to his father’s business. Thanks to the special treatment from Polly the night before he looked bright of eye, his hair seemed two shades lighter and his clothes were clean and pressed. His boots shone like new but most of all the young man’s odor was gone. Replaced by the sweetest smell of the most delicate of perfume.
Turning to the side to check his profile in the glass, whilst he had been embarrassed until the day before about the expansions in his chest and had hidden it from everyone he met binding it tightly now he had exposed it to Polly and was accepting this was out of his control. After last night’s ablutions Polly certainly would not question his femininity and if not for his need to venture out he might enjoy some private moments of freedom without risk. It seemed his aunt was in a confused state anyway. The main difficulty he perceived was in not causing confusion with Adele and avoiding exposing his chest or relaxing the tapes. At least until he might have the opportunity to explain his dilemma.
Polly had been concerned about Roberts use of binding to hide his breasts and had convinced him to use less restraint so his appearance was somewhat ambiguous especially when he fastened his waistcoat that had the effect of lifting the flesh of his chest. It was a similar effect to a corset so he put on his coat for breakfast that he decided he should avoid removing in front of his aunt and also when he was due to meet Adele.
Polly said that in her experience trying to reduce the size of her large bosom too much heavy binding might lead to breathing problems and fatigue. But also based on her experience, worse than that, it would cause back problems or affect Robert(a)s ability to produce milk when she finally decided to enter wedlock. He almost choked with coughing at such a suggestion. But on the contrary from his own experience whilst heavy bandage was not so comfortable it was certainly not restricting the growth. He needed guidance about this problem if it persisted and felt if he had the funds he might take a visit to Harley street to find an eminent specialist for advice. He didn’t really want to lose these protrusions but needed to understand if the rate of expansion could be controlled. They were also very sensitive now as he found whilst bathing the night before and as Polly soaped him she had to take care and he was sure she witnessed the effect a soft massage was having that he appreciated very much. Would that have been Adele rather than Polly he may well have explored the experience further. But such thoughts were too premature.
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As he returned from his reverie he wondered if perhaps the chest growth was more akin to breast growth and some form of late development of his masculinity or was he a freak. Whatever his thoughts he might have difficulty explaining this to Adele if the chance to remove his shirt arose again so he might need to consider some form of undergarment that he’ seen advertised for mature ladies. Perhaps he was too optimistic about his relationship with Adele since despite his attraction to her and vice versa anything more was yet to be established.
As he travelled in the London taxi he wondered why he and his aunt were so much alike and he seemed to have her mannerisms and quite feminine features with slim waist and across the hips his measure was similar to Adele and his feet and hands were small for a man. Most unlike his father and even his mother who had died several years before.
He recalled that he had read an article in the Times about Mendelism and how besides inheriting key features some mix of gender also could be expected to pass down generations although families would never divulge such information. Maybe he had some genes of Miss Deane through her father’s side of the family. As for the Times article Robert had been intrigued rather than offended and indeed felt it was surprising to see such opinions made public in the Times rather than published in appropriate medical literature.
Whilst in his aunts company earlier she had continued to make disparaging remarks about his ugliness advising him that whilst there was a close family resemblance he should not expect to dream of inheriting a look to match hers. It seemed there was certain tones of envy.It was as if she saw Robert as Roberta and was jealous of her youthfulness. Robert had been almost speechless so had looked across at the glass again to see if the image he saw before him was the same as the one looking back from the glass. Indeed it was so how could she be suffering such illusions? He had had no explanation for his aunt’s behavior and remarks other than onset of insanity.
One image was enough after digesting a large breakfast that he was not accustomed to eating so he had turned away from the glass to avoid making comparison. He still he could hardly look her in the face let alone match her stare in fear of speaking out something that would cause grave offence. He couldn’t surely look like his aunt now looked as years pass by. There must be something a specialist might offer as a solution.
He had tried to be as polite as possible nodding and smiling at the appropriate times and hardly managing to utter a word, until he was finally ushered upstairs to ready himself for the journey across town to Marble Arch. He’d seen many impressions and paintings of the monument and was looking forward to witnessing the architecture first hand if time permitted.
He arrived there 15 minutes ahead of schedule as he had planned and of course there was no sign of Adele who deliberately planned to arrive a few minutes late. But there was a shock in store for Robert because Adele too was of a mind to take care and since she would be traveling alone she decided to take on the garb of a young man dressing in breeches and shirt with a heavy cape and with the use of tape she was able to flatten her ample bosom that was of course truly feminine and rounded compared to Roberts perky mounds. Her hair color was deep brown with a hint of red and she tied it back and secured it with a slim black bow. She looked the part as she strode across the square at Marble Arch with masterful use of the cane and whilst she immediately spotted Robert he never recognized her at all.
Adele had decided to play a joke and had another reason for the masculine apparel. She laughed at the look on his face when he finally recognized her. She expected that he would see straight through her disguise but he had stepped back and turned away to look down Oxford Street ignoring her and so she had to speak out his name.
His jaw had dropped because he had clearly heard her voice yet this was a man much the same frame as himself standing feet apart with a silver handled cane in a fitted long coat and booted. This man was clearly a gentleman who bowed and bid him good day and welcome to London. The voice was slightly deeper than his own but not heavy and then the smile that broke brought him to his senses since it was Adele herself before his very eyes.
Adele laughed out loud and spoke in her natural voice and then the deeper voice that had fooled him. He wondered what had been her purpose to wear such garb that looked not out of place on her and in the square where several men mingled and so few ladies who avoided this area of London preferring the safety of the street.
Adele put her arms around him as a long lost brother might do and Robert accepted and then returned the favor shaking his head. The explanation was the same as had used with Polly the day before that the streets were safer for a man to grace alone than for a lady without escort but she played the part so well and admitted this was not the first time nor would it be the last until the streets were safe from beggars, shady characters and the like. This was an area of London where many felons were offered one last drink on their way to the rope that she explained pointing to drinking house where the wagon would stop. Some stayed ‘on the wagon’ and abstained.
Adele had a plan that she laid out to Robert and she wanted his advice and assistance with a problem. She had planned for them to take a drink together and perhaps a small cigar followed by lunch at a club close by where membership was reserved only for men of all ages. It appealed to her humor to be a member and she had inherited the membership from her deceased father Judge Edward Flemming who had sent many a man to the rope and was feared before it was reported that fate took a hand and he died suddenly and reportedly of an incurable disease. The club had been formed by Adele’s grandfather with the assistance of a select few business associates.
Once inside the inn that was busy and lively they enjoyed a schooner of ale apiece with Robert admiring Adele’s disguise and mannerisms and asking for confirmation that this was just a casual hobby and not something she played with frequently. He saw the twinkle in her eyes that had first snared him and the sweet smile so he had his answer. The sight of Adele smoking a small cigar added to the disguise but Robert declined when offered the same since he found the habit distasteful. Adele said she wished to show Robert the club that she now partly owned but shareholding was not disclosed anywhere and so she had no special privileges. Indeed she could not be a member in her own name so her father had introduced her and nominated her for membership as his nephew Arthur D Fleming.
A short walk then to ‘his’ club where, as Arthur, she was made most welcome as Mr. Flemming junior whilst signing the visitors book to welcome Mr. Robert Deane who signed his name alongside. As he looked at his own signature his mind went immediately back to his aunt and her signature and a shiver went down his back all the way to his toes. She was having a most strange effect on him. He looked at the glass on the wall and was sure he saw her face staring back. A shake of his head and she was gone and he saw Mr. Arthur D Flemming grinning from ear to ear. She was proud of her disguise and that she could fool these men and was known to most they saw during their luncheon that followed.
There was something magical about Adele that drew him more even dressed and behaving in this way. She had some tales to tell of her father and grandfather and pointed out an oil painting of her grandfather, hanging by the fireplace, in honor of his generous donations to the club during its foundation. She made Robert laugh as she pulled faces at some of the members who bid ‘him’ good day. He was taken with her humor and her handsome appearance and wished they had met before since he may well have then ventured to London without having to find an excuse.
The Visit – Chapter 4
By
JulieDCole
Quick Update:
Robert worked in Bristol in his fathers firm and found out that he had an aunt in London who was older than his father and who had become rich but had no direct family. Roberts father had nothing to leave him save a struggling business so suggested he visit his aunt in London to form a bond that might result in inheritance. Since Robert had met a charming lady called Adele who lived and worked in London this was an opportunity to meet again and develop a relationship.
On arriving in London he was surprised by the family resemblance but shocked at how beauty had disappeared with age to leave a haggard look. He was not looking forward to old age and this encouraged him to look for any opportunity to enjoy life whilst he had youth and good looks on his side. He wanted to explore his relationship with Adele but could he afford it and how could he afford to stay in London and free himself from a hard life in Bristol. Perhaps something might come from a visit to his aunt, if only for a few days and so he accepted his fathers advice to travel.
I tidied the first three chapters and decided to return to writing after a time out. I apologize for taking so long to pick up the quill again on this story.
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From Chaper 3
There had been something magical about Adele that had drawn him even more even dressed and behaving in this way. She had some tales to tell of her father and grandfather and pointed out an oil painting of her grandfather, hanging by the fireplace, in honor of his generous donations to the club during its foundation. She had made Robert laugh as she pulled faces at some of the members who bid ‘him’ good day. He had been taken with her confidence in this garb that had presented the opportunity for her to express her to humor as well as her masculine features and handsome appearance. Robert had wished they had met much earlier since he had felt he may well have then ventured to London without having to find a visit to his aunt as a suitable excuse.
The story moves forward and is Roberts own account of his experiences based upon his personal diaries from a hiding place at Tavistock Square and used in evidence during family disputes some 50 years later :-
Robert was transfixed for a moment or two by the wonderful surroundings. It was a surprise indeed that Adele had arrived as Arthur and that she had such connection with Judge Flemming, who was quite famous and especially that she had made friends with Robert since there was no family or business connection that he knew of. How memorable it was to frequent this rather splendid Gentlemen’s club in Oxford Street where her father and grandfather had spent many hours. Adele explained both had invested large parts of their accumulated wealth to enable them to mingle with many of London’s gentry and major business leaders.
Adele was keen to enlighten Robert. Her grandfather had the original purpose of becoming one of the gentry of London, with a Knighthood at least and whilst he had not achieved his goal during the latter part of his life when wealth was at his disposal he at least expected his son to fulfil his dream and if not, then his son for certain. Sadly due to grandfathers failing health and her father’s untimely passing the shareholding in the Club was now trapped inside the Company business, which had been solely the family business until banks became involved.
That apart as Adele was at pains to explain there was only the simple matter of the difficulty caused because he only had a daughter. Adele did at least try to put on a brave face pointing out that whatever happened in future her grandfather’s monument seemed to be this very place. In her opinion much better this than a knighthood that in any case would have died with her father. At least Adele had something to fight for even if she needed to masquerade as a fictitious cousin to enjoy it’s wonderful décor and splendor. At least as Arthur she had chance to frequently visit his monument. Robert did however express some concern suggesting this was not a long term solution since it may eventually become impossible for her to carry on the charade if, for any reason such as disclosure or, in case of marriage and then childbirth might make things difficult. Robert didn’t forsee any day when a woman would be allowed membership of such clubs. Adele admitted that in fact since taking the guise of Arthur she found her opinions had changed and she too might oppose such proposals if they ever came.
Upon further questions it came out that it was indeed the suggestion of the great man that Adele was introduced and registered as Edward’s nephew, a young man of 18 years, as silent representative of his grand-daughter who was by now involved in the family business. The great man doted upon Adele even though she was a disappointment having been born of the inferior sex. It brought a tear to Adele’s eye as she told Robert the story and a little stamp of her foot in annoyance. Such frustration for a person of her capability to be born a woman in a man’s world.
Almost as she stamped her foot Robert was surprised since Adele was almost sent sprawling by a sudden and severe slap on her back that was accompanied by a bellowing voice. “Now then young Fleming my boy, who is this you bring to our club this fine day. Is it one of your nancy-boyfriends. Or perhaps tis your girlfriend disguised as a boy? Come on Fleming what would your uncle think. You know the consequences of such breaches my boy. Instant dismissal. He is no longer here to protect you and he might have been as disappointed as I am to see standards slipping. Better you resign methinks so you don’t shame the family. What say you young Fleming?”
The response from Adele was calm and said with passion that I’d not seen before in the short duration of our friendship. “ Sir, please refrain from such behavior, this is a Gentleman’s club for gentlemen and you behave like a ne’er do well. Such inferences or accusations need to be substantiated. Cease your abuse and apologize or face the consequences. The rooms that were quiet anyway fell totally in silence. It seemed an age before Sir Henry withdrew from the confrontation.
It appeared that Adele and this man had history and she made this clear to Robert that she detested him and found him rude and offensive. She apologized for her behavior but more-so for his, that she explained was part of the reason for problems that were surrounding her and the business that her family had once owned outright but was now part owned by other shareholders. She would not burden Robert with her problems even though he wanted to help.
So it was Robert witnessed Adele’s encounter with Sir Henry Tancred, a bounder, cheat and rascal and it seemed he was one of a number of lesser gentlemen who were now members of the club. Robert managed to extract from Adele that each had loaned money to her father to cover a number of substantial bad debts. He had laughed out loud before turning his back and heading to the dining room with a dismissive wave. Adele would say no more and made light of the encounter by making a joke about the comment that Robert gave an impression of a nancy boy or even a girl who was dressed as a boy. He tried to accept the joke but his smile was clearly forced.
Over lunch Adele shared a little more about her need to make frequent visits to the club because the family business she had inherited was regularly providing funds for its upkeep and the operating costs on top of the bad debts were a disappointment to her father who finally gave his blessing for her to help after she showed her ability to act the part of a young man.
Adele had been gradually seeking out information and had accumulated several promise notes already. In her male garb she was able to mingle with members to accrue the information she needed for debts to be recovered but it was a long process and the pressure on the family business was a burden now on her shoulders. She tried to shrug off any sign of worry and dragged Robert to a table by the fireside that had just been vacated. There they enjoyed a glass of claret and ordered the pheasant gamebird lunch recommended by Adele.
Robert had not intended to discuss his own problems but could not resist the charms of Adele so he eventually explained his reason for visiting Tavistock Square and his father’s suggestion to form a close bond to his aunt who had no other family and who’s health was in decline. Robert explained his apparent likeness to his aunt Roberta who surely must have been in a confused state. His nightmare was that eventually he may look old and haggard like her and could not understand why he should resemble her and not his own father or mother. Adele suggested she might at least be invited to afternoon tea to understand.
After lunch and a glass of fine cognac Adele suggested they took some fresh air with a walk in Hyde Park where they could carry on their conversation.
Adele charged the lunch to Arthurs account and left a generous tip that was well appreciated and after donning their top coats they headed towards the Arch and entered the park that looked rather enchanting in the afternoon sunshine. They headed towards the lake and hardly noticed the splendid architecture of the buildings in Park Lane there discussion being so intense. Adele carried herself very well matching Roberts stride and she lit up a small cigar stopping from time to time to re-light it much to her annoyance. They were from her late fathers imported stock and she was thrilled at the opportunity that she said was a rare excursion from her daily routine in Roberts honor.
From time to time Adele returned to the comment of Sir Henry and did in fact agree that Robert had certain features more akin to a female than male and had a rather cute smile. Robert tried his best not to blush or show signs of embarrassment but found the conversation exhilarating and so he couldn’t stop himself from admitting that his aunt was apparently confused and had made reference to him as her niece and was quite jealous of his youthfulness.
They laughed and joked about the prospects of Robert becoming the charge of Aunt Roberta and being introduced to her friends as Miss Roberta. Adele joked that this would surely mean high prospects of Robert becoming her heir to her property and the wealth she had accumulated. Robert preferred not to discuss this matter in the open park but didn’t dismiss the notion in his mind.
Adele used the walk to clear her mind and started to take note of the young ladies making reference to their outfits and asking Roberts opinion from time to time. Clearly Adele felt a certain freedom but at the same time she had an eye for the latest fashions. Robert had no experience on which to call.
They sat for a while looking at the wildlife on the lake and it was becoming much warmer so Robert untied the buttons of his top coat that was rather too heavy for a spring day in London. He was rather uncomfortable and had the urge to loosen the bandages holding his breasts but he dare not. They seemed to be expanding again and they were sensitive. He wanted to release them and touch them and felt he couldn’t last much longer.
It was then that Adele noticed Roberts discomfort and she enquired if he was alright. She was staring at his chest but was too discreet to say anything for fear of embarrassing him. Robert dare not mention his problem for fear of losing Adele’s friendship so he feigned discomfort in his stomach due to the rather rich food that was a unique experience. So they cut through to Knightsbridge where Adele waived down a London cab. Because he was unwell she decided to accompany him to Tavistock Square.
She jumped out first and held out a hand for him grinning broadly in so doing. He stepped down and did a mock curtsey whereupon Adele kissed him on the hand. The cab driver looked on in amazement and then straight ahead whilst the two walked to the front door. Polly opened it before they had chance to knock.
‘Oh Polly this is Mr. Arthur Fleming who was kind enough to bring me home safely.’
They shook hands and Adele jumped quickly back into the cab. As she blew a kiss it didn’t go unnoticed by Polly.
‘Welcome back home Miss Roberta. So you took lunch with a handsome young man. What of your disguise didn’t he object?’
‘Hush Polly I will explain later. First I need to free myself of this restraint since I fear we were too severe this morning. Is Aunt Roberta still entertaining guests.”
“No Miss Roberta they have left and she is taking a nap before dinner. She expects you to join her but I have something to share with you and had instruction that first, if you so wish I should draw you a nice scented bath and then am required to choose something appropriate to wear for dinner.
Robert noted Polly was referring to him as the woman she believed was masquerading as a young man but chose not to chastise her for it. On the contrary indeed he was feeling rather different after his outing with Adele. He didn’t linger and was relieved to remove his waist coat shirt and undershirt and access the tapes which he almost tore from his body. He looked in the glass and understood immediately why the tapes had been uncomfortable. There had been another growth spurt and he was astonished at the change that had taken place in just a few weeks and he wondered how he could keep this a secret. He removed the tie that held his hair in place and let it fall across his face before shaking it and pushing it behind his ears. He stared at his image and saw the facial resemblance to the painting of his aunt that hung in the hallway but more-so he saw the striking figure of a slim upright bare breasted woman in breeches and boots and the image of young Mr. Robert was not obvious at first glance. He had to search for masculinity.
Miss Polly entered his chamber and Robert picked up his shirt and covered his chest immediately before he realized it was her. It seemed to be a natural reaction but Polly was discreet as any experienced maid should be who tends her employers every need.
“Excuse me Miss Roberta your bath is pulled and I will bring a gown and towel if you wish. I can help you remove your boots and breeches.”
“OK Polly the gown would be most welcome and perhaps you can just help me with the boots please. “
As he sat down he relaxed his guard and Polly smiled as he seemed to proudly display his blossoming bust with no shyness now apparent. He looked down with admiring eyes. He felt more relaxed now in front of Polly as a woman rather than as a young man. Even his nipples seemed to have grown and they were a deeper color than a few weeks ago. Polly was too polite to comment though Robert was hoping she might complement him so was a little disappointed.
Once she had freed him of his boots Polly withdrew and re-appeared once he had entered deep warm water of the bath. She hung the dressing gown and towel within easy reach but he could not imagine stepping out whilst she was present and Polly was discreet enough to leave him for a while to enjoy the splendor.
When she had left Robert was finally able to relax and his hands went instantly to caress his new bosoms and as he let his fingers glide across his nipples he shuddered and lay back to enjoy the experience. It had a reciprocal effect on his manhood that for once was reaching out for attention, perhaps out of envy. It was short-lived but nevertheless enjoyable until the point where he felt himself was to let out a squeal and shivered slightly that caused his eyes to close. He lay back until he recovered himself and it was fortunate that Polly had withdrawn.
He had just enjoyed the most pleasurable day of his life as he reflected and had been delighted to spend time with Adele. He wanted to help her if possible but he had nothing to offer surely. He could not match her apparent wealth and experience nor her confidence in the surroundings of an English alehouse and especially in his first ever venture into a Gentleman’s club. He’d seen Adele in another light and wondered if she would have preferred to be the son and grandson her father and grandfather hoped would carry on tradition and the family name,
Then, as if by signal, Polly re-appeared to wash his back and neck and a new calm came to Roberts body but he had the urge to display his chest from beneath the suds. Polly smiled and Robert acknowledged. Polly then proceeded to pass the news she had withheld earlier. She explained about the information that his aunt had conveyed to her lady friends from the afternoon tea. She had been excited by Roberts visit and told them how proud she was of her niece referring to Robert as Roberta the whole time. It was Pollys’ belief that Aunt Roberta was not accepting Robert and knew of his masquerade and preferred he present as the woman Polly believed he really was. Polly concluded that Roberts aunt might prefer that Robert present as herself and not as a young man.
Robert suspected otherwise because he knew his aunt was not confused or becoming senile. She was aware she had a nephew not a niece,
Polly handed Robert a short note that Aunt Roberta had sent that was an invitation to join her for dinner in more suitable attire that she had asked Polly to arrange from her wardrobe so she could see herself again rather than the images in the glass all around the house.
Polly waited for instruction but he had to consider for a few moments. She wanted him to present as Roberta. Was there more reason than she had inferred in the note? What other possible reason could there be to tell friends she had a niece not a nephew. What would his father think? What would Adele think? Still she had resorted to male garb for her own reasons. Surely he couldn’t present as a young woman and feel comfortable? But it was at least an opportunity to see the other side he had seen in the mirror and after all Polly had already concluded he was in fact female and seen him in a nightdress. That experience alone made him more inquisitive. Perhaps his aunt would look even more kindly and generously on him as a niece?
He decided to accept the invitation because of his own feelings and to enquire of his aunt if she had motif. Perhaps he could accept to behave as a niece might behave as long as it was kept between them and contained within the grounds of the house.
Robert shook his head in mild disbelief at the suggestion but Polly insisted he respond to the note and suggested they might both explore the future a little more over dinner and she would be happy if Miss Roberta dressed appropriately and would extend her stay. Polly had no long term future in this house as maid to Aunt Roberta.
Robert hoped Polly might dim the lights in case of embarrassment and if so he could not really object since he now wished to see himself as a lady and perhaps it might have a beneficial effect on Aunt Roberta. Polly had prepared in advance and gathered some of Aunt Roberta’s wardrobe insisting the fit would be perfect and the style acceptable for dinner. So Aunt Roberta had anticipated acceptance of her request that was not a surprise to Robert in view of her strong personality.
So it was he succumbed to Aunt Roberta’s request and Polly scurried off to make ready whilst Robert dried himself and put on the gown before him. He might have to take extra care to cover himself below but he relished the challenge.
The Visit
by
JulieDCole
Robert Deane is in London visiting a rich and aged aunt who never married and has accumulated wealth since she moved from her home in Bristol. Roberts father has worked hard in his business in Bristol all his life but never had success. Robert felt trapped working hard in his fathers business. By chance an invitation came from his aunt to visit her in London. Roberts father saw an opportunity for Robert to inherit his sisters wealth but Robert had his own reason to make the trip.
It was an opportunity to visit an acquaintance he had met recently who he had bonded with immediately. Adele was strong and confident and appeared from nowhere. She seemed delighted to meet him and perhaps she had her own motif. He didn't care because this was his first real friendship.
Aunt Roberta had been a beautiful young woman, but now refused to accept the aged woman in the mirror was her. She regretted that she had never married and raised the daughter she craved for who might have inherited her beauty and born her own daughter. She needed to feel her beauty and hard work was of value and that her life had not been in vain. Her only hope was her nephew Robert and when they finally met she saw in him the image she hoped she would have seen in a daughter.
Robert had his own priorities and he soon met with Adele and found her to be running her family business in London. She told him of her own difficulties that she was trying to face but she knew she was at disadvantage as a woman in London. She had resorted to masquerading as a man to identify the people causing problems to her late fathers business.
He had his own personal problems to deal but maybe he could turn these to advantage. The story continues and who knows the outcome.
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Chapter 5
Robert looked at himself in yet another glass as he crossed the corridor to his bedroom.The flow of the dressing gown accentuated the look of femininity. He had changed so much in such a short time at Tavistock Square and the reflection showed little evidence of masculinity as he let the gown gape a little exposing some female breast that he immediately cupped as he stopped to take in the transformation. His breast was soft and smooth and as white as marble. He drew into his nostrils the sweet smell of the soaps and salts that Polly had added to the bath water. His nipples were firm and seemed sensitive to the cotton material of his gown.
The corridor was not well lit so he headed for the window at the end and to improve the light and the quality of the image. Something caught his attention. The window looked down onto the side street leading to Tavistock Square. Across the street was another large property and he saw someone move in the window that was directly opposite. It was a narrow street that would be no more than a few yards wide by his estimation. There was someone staring directly at him that made him uncomfortable so he withdraw quickly and stepped to the side. He unfastened the ties holding back the drapes and let them fall even though it was daylight. He was sure the person had a spyglass and was looking into his aunts sitting room below. The motion of the drapes made the person withdraw so he couldn’t establish if this was nosiness or something more deliberate with motif. Perhaps they hadn’t seen him that was fortunate.
He headed for the side window of his bedroom to try to get a better view that overlooked the rear garden of the property where a gardener was busy. He looked up towards the rear of the house since someone apparently called him from within the house. The person who had been spying and followed him to the side-gate of the garden where the gardener unlocked it. Robert managed a better glimpse of a man who seemed to offer payment to the gardener before disappearing out of view. Someone seemed interested to look into his aunts property and it wasn’t just nosiness.
Across his bedroom he saw his reflection into the mirror of the dressing table. A nervous and worried expression on his face but once again no sign of a young man just a slender figure looking more delicate than ever. He sat at the dressing table and examined his features. Behind him was a splendid portrait of a semi-naked and beautiful young woman and he couldn’t resist comparing himself to her. She had dark hair compared to his blond locks but he had the same slim waist that he felt may be now accentuated by a developing bust. He also was slim across the hip like her but her beauty was much more obvious. No wonder she was the subject of the painting.
Scrutinising further he looked at his hands that were small yet his fingers were quite long like hers. His feet were not so delicate as they ought to be for a lady but average for sure and no bigger than Adeles he felt. She laid back in a provocative pose and was brushing her long silken hair. She had the most beautiful green eyes. Her hair was longer than his covering her bust. Would that he might pose like that and be the subject of some famous artist. Nay that was not going to be possible. Anyway as he day-dreamed he knew that his own hair was not so well groomed after the days events and especially now it was slightly dampened because of the moisture of the bathroom. He picked up a brush and started to brush it to untangle it and tried to pull it down to his own bust. It was longer than usual but not so long as hers. He had not had much chance to cut it and his options were limited. At least it was clean and healthy.
Polly entered the room heavily laden with garments. She lay them on the bed separating them as she urged Robert to make haste to avoid being late for dinner and preparation would take more time than normal because there were options for consideration. He did comment that he was used to dressing himself so he knew how long it would take but Polly would have none of it. He did not realize quite what was in store. This was not going to be a simple skirt and blouse as far as Polly was concerned. She had instruction to present Miss Roberta as an elegant and refined young lady and had been given the key to a private wardrobe that a princess would be proud to own.
Robert was quite taken by the opportunity that lay ahead of him and moved across to examine the large bundle that somehow Polly had managed to carry.
“My God Polly what is all this. You embarrass me with so many items of underwear laid out in full display. Surely these are not inded to be worn at the same time. Is this your joke to me?’
Polly shook he head and Robert sat back down on the stool in front of the dressing table almost falling backwards.
‘Come on Miss Roberta please go behind the screen away from the light of the window and remove your gown and put on this under layer first. I will help you with the stockings and garters when you are ready if you wish. Robert decided the risk was too great so he managed somehow.
Next came some weird item that was in fact a style of bloomers that allowed ease of toilet that Robert imagined might be none too appealing to a gentleman looking for opportunity. Not elegant at all in his opinion.
Then came some item that held his developing bust in a fixed position without much cover from the view above. Surely not?. If this was at home in Bristol he could not imagine the reaction. He was feeling prepared now for one of the dresses to be fitted but Polly was not finished. She produced something far stronger than the tapes he’d used to contain his bust that would supposedly reduce his waist to produce a shape that was defined as hourglass. After 15 minutes Polly was satisfied but Roberts voice was several octaves higher and he anticipated there was no chance to eat more than a few morsels of food when presented later. No wonder ladies were so delicate.
Polly saw Robert looking at the painting above her and he couldn’t resist to enquire who she was. No answer came and instead Polly switched his attention to the gowns in front of him. He had to choose but really Polly gave him little option since she felt the burgundy one would fit him perfectly. She was right. He was speechless by now as Polly fixed his hair above his head and produced a necklace and some heavy clips for his ears.
‘There you are miss just as beautiful as Miss Fwacett there above you and I’m sure Miss Roberta senior will be delighted to see her niece looking so elegant. You are very pretty and your aunt may be quite jealous.”
‘Are these her clothes that I wear Polly since they are not of current style?’
‘Well Miss Roberta I do believe they are but I’m not sure and it is not my place to ask.’
When Robert entered the sitting room to join his Aunt he saw a smile on her lips for the fist time.’
‘Roberta darling you look esquisite. So delightful and the dress is perfect.’
Robert blushed somewhat that he would have blamed on the glass of fine sherry if it had arrived before the complement.’
They moved to the large dining table sitting either end as Polly took charge of the serving from the young maid who assisted the cook. Aunt Roberta was completely different towards him and said now she could see that utterly and totally Robert had indeed inherit her beauty and once again a shudder of fear ran down Roberts spine since he must avoid at all costs to age like she had done.
Over a clear soup Robert enquired about the clothes that had been plucked from nowhere saying that Polly had produced them from a wardrobe in Aunt Roberta’s room. She didn’t answer until half way through eating the small bird that each of them had placed in front of them and Robert had too much to do to ask more questions as he tried to eat as delicately as possible. The tight waistband that had been fitted around Roberts waist made him sit straight in his chair so movement was restricted.
Robert also mentioned the beautiful lady in the portrait during his final attempt to separate meat from the carcass. He got no reaction at all so sat quietly.
Polly had told him that the painting was a gift from a close admirer of Miss Roberta with whom she had fallen in love and he had commissioned the painting. They never married and the man had disappeared completely before Polly was hired.
Despite the lack of answers Miss Roberta remained polite and by the end of dinner when they retired to the library for a glass of port Robert noticed his aunt had a more gentle expression that seemed to remove some of the years from her face.
Aunt Roberta then said that the clothes had belonged to the same lady he had been admiring in the painting. She felt that Robert had the same beauty and she hoped he would spend more time with her as the niece to replace the daughter she would have liked. She needed female company around the house and inferred that such a young woman might inherit more than her good looks when the day finally came.
Robert had some inkling now why his aunt had requested they take dinner together with Robert presented as niece rather than nephew but he felt sure there was more to this.
By the third glass of port he found Aunt Roberta was very talkative and she started to explain that her reason to move to London was because of her fondness for a young man who was very handsome and came from a wealthy family. They had met in Bristol and although they were both similar age to Robert now they had enjoyed each others company for almost 2 years. Unfortunately the family had already identified a wife for her man who was from a similar background with good pedigree. But this man Edward, if indeed this was the right name, loved Roberta for she understood him and they had shared a bed.
They both left Bristol for London where Edward used some of his wealth and family connections to establish business of his own that he shared with Aunt Roberta.
‘What became of Edward and why my mother and father didn’t say anything before now?’
‘Roberta dear we could never marry without his family consent and they did awful things to try to stop us. It was not acceptable to live together and they knew he had certain preferences that were frowned upon that were of no consequence to me. He was the most loving and sensitive man you could ever wish to meet.
‘So what happened to him. You never married.’
‘No, he was taken away from me back to Bristol and blackmailed into marrying the woman they chose. I had no chance since I was seen as a fortune hunter. The business we started was nothing to do with his family but they resented our success and tried to bankrupt it through their connections.’
‘So did you keep a contact or the partnership?’
‘Would that I could have my dear on both, or either account. ’
‘Was he happy with this woman?’
‘Never. We kept contact and despite having two children he was in a very unhappy marriage and frequented places where he felt comfortable. I tried to keep a contact but he signed over the business to me and eventually he took his family overseas and was tragically killed in an accident. ‘
‘Poor Aunt Roberta, such sadness and so unfair.’
‘Yes we had a bond and a love of theatre and music and fine clothes. We would go to the theatre together and lay together all night laughing and joking and discussing many things.’
‘Did my father know? Did he meet Edward?‘
‘Yes he knew our friendship and was aware of Edwards passions.’
So he didn’t agree either and didn’t help both of you?’
‘He tried but he was threatened and still he can never be free of them.’
Then Aunt Roberta decided that was enough for that night and suggested they both retire for the night Robert wanted to know more but had no choice.
As he lifted his skirts to climb the staircase he felt some closer affinity to his aunt and realized that their relationship was better because he conformed with her wishes and presented himself as her niece. But what of tomorrow and what of Adele?
The Visit - Chapter 6
by Julie D Cole
Chapter 6
Apologies for delays in continuation of my story of Robert who visits London to meet an aged Aunt after her invitation and takes the opportunity to meet a young woman he met in Bristol who captured his heart. His feminine features caused the housekeeper/maid to believe he was a young woman dressed as Robert for safety whilst traveling and encouraged him to present as Roberta to his aunt for reasons he didn't understand.
The additional edit is to tidy up the story and remove mistakes in grammar.
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Chapter 6
Robert Deane is in London visiting a rich and aged aunt who never married and has accumulated wealth since she moved from her home in Bristol. Roberts father has worked hard in his business in Bristol all his life but never had success. Robert felt trapped working hard in his fathers business. By chance an invitation came from his aunt to visit her in London. Roberts father saw an opportunity for Robert to inherit his sisters wealth but Robert had his own reason to make the trip.
It was an opportunity to visit an acquaintance he had met recently who he had bonded with immediately. Adele was strong and confident and appeared from nowhere. She seemed delighted to meet him and perhaps she had her own motif. He didn't care because this was his first real friendship.
Aunt Roberta had been a beautiful young woman, but now refused to accept the aged woman in the mirror was her. She regretted that she had never married and raised the daughter she craved for who might have inherited her beauty and born her own daughter. She needed to feel her beauty and hard work was of value and that her life had not been in vain. Her only hope was her nephew Robert and when they finally met she saw in him the image she hoped she would have seen in a daughter.
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Robert had been forced to mount the staircase slowly step by step rather than his normal approach of two steps at a time. He was carrying the extra load of skirts and layers of undergarments.
He held the skirts in his left hand to avoid tripping and an open fan in his right hand to cool him as much as possible since his attire was containing all the heat being generated as he dined. He looked down at his narrow feet peeping from beneath the raised hem of the wonderful silk dress that must have cost more than he earned in a year to make. Polly had taken an age to fit and adjust it and he knew he would never have the patience to go through this procedure every day. His feet were indeed very slim for a man that had always been a problem and the bootmaker the family had used often commented. The shoes that Polly had selected for him fitted perfectly just like the dress and the undergarments. What he learned from the experience was that women of this class rarely wore pantaloons beneath their skirts that seemed strange.
Nevertheless he was enjoying this new feeling of womanhood and the relative privacy of his aunts home and attendance of Polly who was guiding him without realising he had little experience on which to call. He was not aware that the changes in his body were unusual since opportunities to undress others were rare and at school most boys played sport in normal day to day attire.
At least with Pollys guidance he was learning how to dress as a young woman of middle/upper class and how to present himself. He couldn’t imagine changing many times through the day and he now understood why many of the women he’d met were drenched in perfume.
What he enjoyed most of all was that dressing in female garb gave him chance to show his new assets nestling in front of him and free of restraint, seemingly bobbling up and down with each step. They were much happier with their new found freedom and it seemed like he would have to take care not to restrain them too tightly to prevent damage or bruising and he hoped to find more opportunities like this.
As he admired himself something stirred deep inside his stomach and it was a nice feeling that made him want to squeal. Not in rage but in delight. He reached the top stair and let his skirts fall. He used the fan to calm himself and took deep breaths. It seemed so pleasant to be dressed like this and he felt comfortable despite the layers of clothing and the waist band that added to his femininity. Skirts felt so much nicer than trousers and the rest of his boring male garb. .
He stepped forward towards his bedroom and felt a strong urge to look at himself in a large glass as he crossed the landing. It dominated the wall and in the subdued light he looked every inch a young woman of delicate features. He would without doubt have turned heads were he in a ballroom or hotel foyer. That might be an experience to try one day if he could get the chance or find the courage.
The events of the evening with Aunt Roberta with continuous chatter, an array of food and several glasses of wine and port had relaxed him to such an extent that his forehead no longer displayed a frown or any sign of stress or apprehension. He was completely at ease with himself due to his aunts acceptance of him in this garb. He was surprised that his voice had lifted at least a pitch and his movements were more delicate. He had not attempted to change it just occurred naturally so he supposed it was something that happened whilst Polly was chatting and dressing him.
Looking closely in the glass his hair was still held firmly in place with pins and his bosom and small waist looked in perfect proportion to his frame. He saw that he had quickly lost his masculinity and he felt quite feminine that made him shudder for some reason.
He was so impressed by the image in the glass that he couldn’t resist a curtsey which seemed to come naturally. He saw that his shoulders were as white as marble and narrow for a man of his age and still rather boyish in fact for a man and marginally broad for a delicate woman but still in proportion to the rest of his body. His waist was a good two inches smaller than its natural width thanks to the corset. He had hips on which to place his hands because of Polly’s hard work and the strength of the laces and it wasn’t nearly as difficult to move as he might have expected. His hands caressed his waist and then his tummy and then moved to his buttocks. There was no sign of the man inside the dress. No wonder Polly had believed he was a woman impersonating a man. He shuddered again. It was such a pleasant experience.
He was beginning to think that in a former life he must have been a female because he was so at ease like this. He compared himself with his first sighting of Adele in a gown when they met in Bristol. She had looked stunning and his long stare brought a smile from her face and a mock curtsey as he had just done. Was this a dream? He’d never imagined at the time that he would ever be similarly garbed.
Adele was a beautiful woman with strong features, not heavily endowed but ample enough to attract the eye. That beauty had attracted him immediately but now he wondered if it was something more than her features, maybe there was a little envy or desire to wear such clothes that turned the eye. Strange that even when dressed as a man Adele had turned a few eyes but on this occasion more from the ladies in the park and on the street than the men in the bar and the Gentleman’s club. She seemed to have a natural ability to blend and perhaps it was her confidence and her courage that helped project the image of a handsome young man.
He stared long and hard at himself realising that he was as feminine as any woman he’d met when dressed in this way and he wondered if he had the courage to continue the charade with Aunt Roberta whilst in the house since she showed far more empathy towards him. He was fortunate to have the help and guidance of Polly when dressing and access to a wide wardrobe of expensive dresses and accessories due to the slenderness of his body and as well as that he now had breast development. He decided to continue the deception or misunderstanding with Polly who believe him to be Roberta wearing male garb for reasons that were not her affair.
This experience of dressing and presenting as Roberta had felt exhilarating and free of risk of exposure since both Aunt Roberta saw him as female. He felt he would like to carry this on since it had been such an enjoyable experience and it didn’t seem to be causing hurt or offence. Some wonderful feelings had surfaced from deep inside. He had liked the opportunity to present and behave in a more gentle way with his aunt who had reacted positively and she had been much kinder to him. Did she understand what had happened or was she confused because of her age?
Aunt Roberta had been very talkative and he soon realised that she had a need to share her experiences with someone and that she wanted to release something that had irked her in her past that clearly had been pent up for too long. Maybe Robert as Roberta would hold the key and he felt he might be able to help whilst enjoying himself at the same time. He wanted to look through the full wardrobe of clothes that Polly had described to him since his own male wardrobe was very limited and of poor quality. Polly had indicated that there were some very beautiful and expensive clothes that Aunt Roberta had accumulated in happier times during her more youthful years. She felt that Robert had the slender figure to fit them as proven by his first experience.
The concern he was having was that if word got outside Polly, his aunt and himself then this may reach Adele and destroy his budding relationship with her. Robert wondered whether or not he should seek her opinion on his plan to please Aunt Roberta that had advantages as his father had pointed out quite bluntly but this might be viewed as fraud or criminal deception. He couldn’t risk damage to their relationship because that was after all the main purpose of this visit to London. Any inheritance opportunity was not important to him and anyway Adele seemed to accept him as she found him. Not poor but not rich. At least he was honest and law abiding.
He continued to pose in front of the Glass and wondered in fact what Adele might make of him dressed like this because there was little sign of a male at first sight and even he had to twice. She might hate him or get angry and turn and walk away but something inside gave him the feeling that she would be accepting and curious as he had been when she appeared in front of him as a young man. Dare he admit that based on his first experience he had enjoyed presenting as a young woman and had the features and mannerisms to carry it through. Furthermore Polly was sure he was a woman and she’d seen him almost naked.
He sat on a small leather chair conveniently placed to look at the paintings on the wall that he might review more closely in daylight. One painting was of a young woman with a baby in her arms looking into the eyes of a strikingly handsome young man with a cane in his hand who was either entering or leaving the room. He would ask Polly if this had been a casual purchase or if there was some family association. He stood up to examine the painting more closely and he was sure that the lady was a youthful Aunt Roberta but she had no children. Maybe it was his own mother which he dismissed immediately. The man was very slim and quite handsome though some would say even pretty. It was hard to distinguish if the baby was a girl or a boy but he guessed it was a girl based upon the bonnet.
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He was soon back in his bedroom undressing, with Polly’s aid, having first relieved himself in the bathroom to avoid the indignity of the chamber pot beneath his bed. The experience of relieving himself dressed in female garb was quite a task in itself handling the layers of dress and it was fortunate that he had not left it to late. Now he understood why Adele had disappeared for such a long time between dances when they first met. Even the checks he needed to undertake to ensure everything was back in place took time. At the dance he had felt sure Adele had left through a rear exit to avoid him but now he understood. There was a lot of layers to consider and he needed to sit rather than stand.
Sitting a while for his toilet gave him chance to consider what he might do when meeting Adele again. He hoped that might be the following day and with luck he would receive a message at breakfast. If not he would have to seek advice from his aunt how to send a message to her and after all it was his duty to be the suitor. But Adele cared not for protocol or tradition and he had no problem either.
As Polly helped him remove the layers he raised the subject of the painting he’d been observing. It was, as Robert suspected, related to Aunt Roberta’s past like most of the paintings in the house. Polly told him that his Aunt Roberta used to sit in the very chair that he had perched and that she often had to check on her several times before she finally retired to her bedroom or returned downstairs. Polly dare not pry since she knew that Aunt Roberta would not speak out. Sometimes there was a tear or two and sometimes she would hear Aunt Roberta speaking to the picture as if it was alive.
So Robert now decide that he had two pictures that might be used as topics of conversation. He felt he would find a way to introduce the subject with Aunt Roberta the next day. Maybe before Aunt Roberta would confide in him it would necessitate him taking up the role of niece rather than nephew during his stay and extending it with permission of his father. That prospect excited him.
Robert was still Roberta as he tumbled into bed in attire that Polly has laid out and aired for him. Polly fussed around him and finally tucked in his nightdress and helped him get comfortable in the large soft bed that was much more spacious and comfortable than his own at home. A fire that Polly had lit to warm the room still burned and Polly died it with water and placed a guard in front. He had enjoyed sitting in front of the dressing table in the firelight as Polly brushed out his hair that cascaded over his shoulders and already it was looking more soft and healthy and natural curls were evident. It was in fact now reaching below his shoulders so it spread across his pillows.
Robert felt that Polly was absolutely convinced he was Roberta so it would not be difficult to carry on the guise around the house and he was now certain this would please Aunt Roberta. He fell into a nice sleep still nicely perfumed and enjoying the butterflies in his stomach. It felt like a dream and he realised how lucky he was to have an aunt with so much wealth and a beautiful house in London.It had taken a long time for him to meet her and he wondered why.
He was awakened from a deep slumber by daylight and the noise of Polly drawing back the drapes. The bed linen was hardly disturbed as he sat up. Polly helped with propping of the pillows and produced a jug of water so that he could refresh his mouth. How strange it felt to be in such splendid surroundings and he noticed the room was sweetened by the smell of flowers and was taking a more feminine appearance thanks to other touches by Polly. He felt more like a woman with the possible exception that he had a stiffness that indicated that he needed to relieve himself so he hoped that Polly would withdraw to give him chance to use the chamber pot.
Polly disappeared to attend to the front doorbell so he took the opportunity to slide out of bed and remove the chamber pot. He hitched his nightdress and once again found it more convenient to sit astride that was fortunate because Polly was back before he was finished. At least the stiffness had gone so there was nothing to show as he stood up and turned to Polly letting his nightdress fall. She was excited and had a message for him on a small silver tray.
He was excited too as he opened it since it was from Adele advising she would like to him to join her for lunch at her Gentleman’s club to have a meeting with a friend of hers. She offered to collect him so that she could have chance to travel together. Polly smiled and looked knowingly at Robert since she knew it was the same young man she’d seen the day before and she suspected he may know Robert as Roberta and was an admirer. Robert must have been flushed with slight embarrassment because little did Polly know that the situation was not quite as she was suspecting even though she had seen the fondness between them.
Robert was left to refresh himself with the warm flannels after Polly gave him some privacy with bowl of warm water and towels discreetly placed behind a beautifully decorated screen. After he dried himself he applied some of the sweet fragrances displayed on the dressing table. Polly draped some fresh under garments over the screen and Robert hurriedly stepped into them before Polly would consider it appropriate to assist him. He removed the ribbon holding his hair whilst he washed and let it fall again to his shoulders and sat down on the stool in readiness for Polly to brush it and make it ready for the day. He’d never noticed how long and full it was since it had always been tightly brushed and tied back home in Bristol.
His hair was indeed in much better condition than when he had arrived thanks to Polly’s skills and patience with the brushes and the comb and he decided he should carry on the good work when he returned home even if was more feminine like this. He looked at his budding breasts that were protruding more than ever thanks to the bodice and felt a little embarrassed. His nipples were a little sore so he grimaced if Polly touched them whilst adjusting his dress.
Polly noticed his flushed cheeks during her duties and she felt so protective and proud to get the chance of attending to her mistress’s niece and wondered whatever possessed her to go out in male garb. She realised that her mistress had suddenly found a light in her life and her job was no longer a chore. After initial resistance Robert’s cheeks were quickly powdered that accentuated his new found femininity. He looked at himself in the glass in front of him already quite comfortable as female and noticed the smile of approval and a wink from Miss Polly who urged him to stand whilst she applied a corset to draw in his waist. She chose a simple long skirt and blouse and insisted that Robert wore a pearl necklace from a cask that was full of jewellery, stockings and shoes stored with the array of dresses and accompaniments in the dressing room that until recently had been locked and sealed. She insisted that Robert turned around and used the full length glass to see the end result.
Robert asked if he was required to send a message of reply to Adele and if so then how could this be arranged at such short notice. Polly hushed him since there was no need as the message was between two male friends and not marked with RSVP. Even though the meeting time was stated in the note it would be expected that Robert would be available and ready so Polly suggested that Miss Roberta should be back upstairs in good time if she insisted to appear to her friend as Master Robert.
Neither Robert or Polly expected breakfast to go beyond 10 am and that would leave enough time for a bath before changing into Roberts clothes that would be neatly pressed and clean.
Robert agreed to be ready sometime around noon and that as a man he should be prompt. Polly smiled and reminded Robert that he was not calling on a lady but to collect a male friend. Robert didn’t miss the quiet remark that Polly made under her breath that it was ‘a pity’.
Robert was now ready to take breakfast with Aunt Roberta and he was glad he had decided to accept the request she’d made for him to present as her niece since he felt rather pretty and he liked the feeling. It seemed natural to be dressed like this and certainly this pleased his aunt. Where could be the harm?
Robert asked Polly who this wardrobe of beautiful clothes had belonged to and marvelled at the way it fitted so well. Whilst the style might not be of current fashion it was almost timeless. Polly would not say so perhaps it had been his aunts but she was smaller and quite bent and frail so it was hard to tell. The fitting of the dress the night before was almost perfect and he liked that his new bosom was evident and in nice proportion to his waist and hips. The laced corset was the biggest factor in attaining the small waist and Polly hoped he would wear it continuously to train his body like most of the fashionable ladies she saw around the square.
As Robert walked along the landing towards the staircase he looked up at the large painting he’d seen the night before that was much more impressive with the benefit of daylight and the morning sunlight from the large window almost brought the face to light. This was indeed a very beautiful young woman with a baby girl and very a handsome young man who did seem to be letting go of her hand and departing on a trip by the expressions on their faces. Robert saw that he had some resemblance to the beautiful woman who was the subject of the first painting he had seen. Perhaps they were brother and sister. Maybe they were friends of his aunt. Who were this family?
Aunt Roberta was taking morning tea as Robert arrived to the breakfast room and his entrance and appearance as Miss Roberta brought a bright smile to her face. He knew immediately that he’d made the right decision and already he could see her face was softer and more welcoming. There were less lines today and her posture was straighter that was a relief. Robert kissed her politely on the cheeks and from somewhere came a natural curtsey. Mistress Roberta took his hand and squeezed it saying how beautiful he looked and how it brought back fond memories of her youth.
Breakfast started but they were talking so much that they both lost track of time. As they chattered fresh teapots appeared at least twice. They withdrew to the garden room as the sun was shining and Aunt Roberta explained about the plants and the colours in the garden and the sweet aromas. Polly opened the doors to the garden after finding a key on the long chain attached to her skirts and encouraged them to step outside to talk because she could see the benefit it was having on Aunt Roberta.
In the conversations Robert found out that Aunt Roberta had indeed had a relationship with a special young man although she had never married. She had fallen in love but they had parted even though she wanted to be married to him and he to her. Robert was too polite to pry further at that juncture and hoped to discuss this at some future time. It did seem that Aunt Roberta did keep contact with this young man and Robert concluded that he may have duties overseas as a trader. There were references to various business matters and many social occasions and it was clear that this man was Aunt Roberta’s one true love.
Whilst in the garden Aunt Roberta mentioned that this man had returned to London to see her several times and also to arrange some business affairs but then Robert was shocked to hear the man did not visit again. A tearful Aunt Roberta told him that he had been tragically killed in a shooting accident for which Aunt Roberta had never been informed until contacted by lawyers some 6 or 12 months afterwards. She was told that he had been killed whilst hunting but she knew it was unusual because in her opinion he would not hunt animals. He was much too kind and gentle.
Polly appeared at the door and tried to attract Roberts attention to let him know the time and that the morning was passing quickly. She hinted that he had a lunch appointment but Aunt Roberta seemed too emotional to leave at that juncture. There was no way he could politely leave. Finally as he heard the clock on the mantle sound for 11.30 am he took his chance and stood up. He made reference to a lunch appointment with a friend and quickly he kissed his aunt on the cheek squeezing her hand. Aunt Roberta thanked ‘her’ for being such a sympathetic and beautiful companion and a long lost niece even though Robert had arrived at her house as her nephew.
Robert was about to leave the room when the front doorbell rang and Polly went to answer. He knew it would be Adele arriving early so he decided to hurry upstairs as quickly as possible to change. As he dashed across the hallway to the staircase he seemed to have leaden shoes and was unable to avoid the glance of the visitor even though he never looked up and focused on avoiding an embarrassing trip running in the long skirts.
He heard Adele’s strong voice and he glanced back and was frozen for a moment. She was dressed appropriately for lunch at the club and looked very handsome that brought a smile to his face whilst here he was still fully skirted and not having had chance to take a bath to remove the feminine odours. Robert hurried as fast as he could towards the staircase hiding his face as best he could as Adele was escorted into the library by Polly.
For one brief moment Robert knew that when their eyes did meet there was a light in Adeles eyes. His heart was pounding as he mounted the stairs holding his skirt at the sides. His bosom was bouncing and it was a new experience so he let go of his skirt to hold them with his elbows slowing to almost a standstill.
He wanted to turn back.
to be continued.............
Chapter 7
It was a moment that seemed to last forever. Robert found that he couldn’t move and he daren’t turn to look back in case Adele had recognised him as feminine as he looked in a morning dress. It was as if time had stood still and his limbs were locked and wouldn’t function. After what seemed an age he let go of his breasts and stretched his right arm to the long sweeping bannister that stretched to the hallway below and had the courage to look back over his shoulder with head stooped so that his face was hidden as much as possible.
Time had stood still. Adele had also stopped in her tracks to watch him mount the long staircase. A young woman who was clearly trying not to be noticed who appeared from nowhere and seemed shy or frightened in front of a strange man. Adele did not mind. It gave her a feeling of superiority. A feeling she’d often craved for in business and her daily life that she had not experienced before. She was intrigued to know who the woman was and why Robert hadn’t mentioned her.
On the other hand Robert was sure he had been recognised. Their eyes met as they absorbed as much information as they could about each other in the brief moments that took an age. Roberts looked down and avoided Adele’s gaze as much as possible until he was finally able to move again. Adele reached out an arm but seemed unable to speak so she smiled and made a small bow that Robert acknowledged with a small curtsey.
Robert hurried as quickly as he could to the safety of the landing and looked into the large glass on the wall. He could see no sign of his maleness so hoped that he could quickly change and avoid an embarrassing discussion with Adele. He didn’t know what she might think.
Polly ensured that Adele was comfortable although she didn't want to be fussed and preferred to lean on the mantle shelf whilst he waited and tinker with the fire.
Adele was sure Robert would have told her if he had been accompanied. Could it be a friend or was she a cousin or some other relative. She certainly wasn’t a maid or his aunt. She was elegant and too well dressed for a maid. She appeared to be much too young for this to be Aunt Roberta.
Even from a distance Adele could also see that she was quite beautiful and she felt a pang of jealousy because she was here in the same house as Robert and unless they were related he would surely be attracted. Was he keeping her secret?
Something inside her loins stirred because she found her very attractive even from a distance and were she really Arthur, the man she was posing to be, she might even be tempted to seek an introduction and enquire further. Where was Robert before she lost her senses? They had to get out of there as soon as possible because these sudden feelings disturbed her.
As she stirred the logs on the fire they crackled and a few sparks flew. She stared into the hot embers for a while and warmed her hands that were unusually cold. They weren’t as big as an average man’s hands and that was the one thing that might give her away at the club if she didn’t take care. Outside she could wear gloves. As for Robert it was unusual for him not to at least greet her. Where was he and what was taking him so long. She had arrived early out of politeness but at the same time hoping to be introduced to his aunt but not to be. She had decided that she must be very rich to own such a splendid house in a prime area of London. It was well decorated and filled with ornaments and expensive furniture.
She reflected again on the beautiful young woman who was surely not an apparition and she could still visualise her face and the pretty smile she showed when their eyes met. Adele sighed in admiration and reflected on the many times her grandfather had said that he wished she was a boy. If she had have been she would have had great fun and lots of girlfriends by now. Instead she was still single and fighting to save her grandfather’s hard work and success having to resort to being disguised as a man just to enter a club that she might inherit if there was anything left.
When their eyes had met he wondered if it was she looked like a woman masquerading in male garb rather than being strong and handsome as she tried to project. Was this reaction normal or was she behaving like some evil pervert?
Upstairs Robert and Polly were hurrying to transform Roberta to Robert and in the process Robert didn’t even hesitate to stand bare chested exposing two perfectly formed appendages whilst Polly removed overnight body odours with a damp cloth. She took care around Robert’s nipples realising they were sensitive and a little sore like her own at certain times of the month. She enquired as discreetly as she could if it was necessary to clean below in case it was her period. Robert coloured and stuttered a reply but Polly concluded that she was right.
Whist Robert had become more comfortable around Polly whilst presenting as a woman he had been scared during the brief encounter with Adele in case she realised who he was. He was fearful of being found in female garb by any person other than Polly and his aunt and especially by Adele who he might have to take into his confidence soon if the masquerade was to continue. At least he felt it necessary to find the right opportunity to explain his reasons for the transformation from man to woman.
His heart was beating faster than normal. He could recall the smile on Adele’s face and realised that his own eyes fluttered drawing even more attention from Adele who spoke softly to wish him good morning. Polly had seemed to encourage the exchange and was trying to hide the broad smile on her face. She had not hurried Adele to the library or indeed to the drawing room both of which were close to hand.
In some respects he had wanted to be seen because he knew he looked very attractive as a woman whereas as a man he wasn’t of tall stature or particularly handsome because of the feminine features that he now realised were from his aunts and fathers side of the family. Whilst dressed as a woman both Polly and Aunt Roberta had paid him several nice complements that he never received as a man. Now something inside wanted him to introduce Adele to this other side of him as he had been fortunate already to see another side of her.
When reaching the staircase Robert had almost turned to go back into the hallway towards Adele but instead he had hesitated and frozen. On the first steps on the open staircase that spiralled to the first floor and then up to the top floor he had looked back over his shoulder watching Adele disappear into the library. He anticipated her likely questions to either ask why he had been dressed like a woman or who this young woman was and why she was staying in the house.
Whatever might be the case he already decided that he needed to find a way to explain himself to her before presenting dressed as a woman in front of her. Maybe soon he might invite her to dinner with Aunt Roberta but he knew his aunt would want her niece to be there and then should Adele present as herself or as Arthur. That was a conundrum for another day. He still couldn’t be sure that she’d accept him dressed as Roberta.
Whilst he was enjoying the experience to present as Roberta it was in the safety of his aunt’s house but whether or not he could carry it off outside or in male company was another question. Men dressing as women didn’t seem to be socially accepted yet he knew several women who presented as men and had relationships.
His progress was slow because of his daydreaming as he walked slowly to his bedroom and he jumped at a noise. Polly appeared from nowhere having used the servant’s staircase at the rear of the house that had direct access to the large kitchen and larder. It continue down to the cellar and servants quarters where Polly lived.
Polly said that Mr Arthur had made no comment other than a polite greeting and that he seemed to be a good catch for Miss Roberta asking if she was interested. Robert flushed again and Polly didn’t need to hear a response. She made some comment under her breath about missing out due to the burden of being a housekeeper and dogsbody. It appeared that she’d never matched or married and I hoped there was still time for her. It would be Robert’s task to help find a suitor if he was around long enough. Perhaps that would be easier to do as Robert than Roberta but Adele might help.
Since Mr Arthur had made no comment to Polly about the young woman who flashed past him Polly never spoke other than to ask if he needed some refreshment. He had declined. She did pluck up the courage to wish Robert good luck and to let this man see how beautiful she was before somebody else caught him.
Robert blushed continuously as he hurried to change his attire that he blamed on the warm fire and the extra logs that Polly had added before breakfast. It was a beautiful day outside so he was keen to get some fresh air. He focused on removing as much evidence as he could of the delicate soaps on his body and the powder on his face. He tried to brush out the natural curls of his hair and hurriedly tied it back with a black ribbon. Polly produced his tight vest that he needed to restrict his budding breasts. He had discarded the tapes and pins that had hurt him and left marks as well has hurting his nipples. Since she only accepted Robert as Roberta and it was her time of the month she was too discreet to help him to remove his pantaloons.
Robert then quickly dressed in his male garb noticing that Polly was shaking her head because she perhaps didn’t like his taste. He asked what was wrong but as a long serving servant of his aunt Roberta she hesitated to speak out. It wasn’t her place to give negative comment or make judgement so instead she just steered him towards the glass to let him check himself and he kept an eye over his shoulder for any change in expression on Polly’s face. He hadn’t many options open to him but finally he got a nod.
As he took a final look in the glass he now realised that even dressed in his male garb he had a feminine air and a certain grace. He tried to correct his stance placing his feet apart. His right hand had moved naturally to his hip as he turned to check himself from the rear as well as from the front. Polly said nothing and she tried to look away. He couldn’t help that he had such delicate features and didn’t fill his jacket very well.
He felt awkward already and more so a little disappointed to revert back to being Master Robert. There was even a hint of a sigh that didn’t go unnoticed by Polly. As he left his bedroom he could swear he heard her speak under her breath again. She was of the mind that he should have faced Mr Arthur as himself without this charade dressing as a man. He couldn’t help but smile to himself. If only Polly knew that both he and Adele were in disguise.
Free of some of the feminine restraints he skipped quickly down the staircase to meet Adele doing his best to leave behind the image of Roberta. Had Adele had more chance to look more closely before he hurried upstairs he knew she would have realised it was him. He would soon find out.
As he entered the library he found Adele still leaning on the mantle shelf of the fireplace standing on tiptoes to look more closely at the painting hanging above her head.
She said nothing except good morning as they greeted each other as two close friends would do with handshake and a smile. There was no body contact and certainly no kiss of greeting that Robert was tempted to do even though Adele was presenting as Arthur. It didn’t seem right.
Adele certainly matched Robert with the strength of her handshake and she looked very elegant and much smarter than Robert who was a little short of male wardrobe at home and he hadn’t left much behind in Bristol. He wished he had the same wardrobe as he’d used as Roberta so he decided that he needed to visit a good tailor whilst in London. All well and good but he didn’t have the income for expensive purchases and there were no male clothes that he could borrow. His lifestyle at home did not offer many opportunities for visits to Gentlemen’s clubs or visits to restaurants for lunch or dinner appointments. He never went to the theatre or other places of entertainment except to English Pubs to drink beer or cider.
He hoped that he would like to visit a theatre with Adele whilst he was in London because as yet he hadn’t seen her as herself only as Arthur. She had a nice figure even if more robust than Roberts with strong arms and legs. It was her slightly masculine features that enhanced her beauty in his eyes that had first turned his head.
Adele looked so assured and confident and must surely have spent time out in London dressed as a man to outdo his own masculinity. He’d felt attracted to her in a completely different way when they were in the club together the day before. The same feeling returned as he gazed into her piercing blue eyes.
They were such opposites yet they seemed naturally attracted to each other. Adele was exciting and liked to take a risk whilst he was quiet and indecisive that perhaps was because he was over cautious and had to be careful with his money. Yet we were comfortable in each other’s company.
Adele pointed to the woman in the painting and commented on her beauty asking if it was a portrait of someone related to Robert. In truth Robert had not looked closely until now and yes he did see that it was the same person as in the painting upstairs.
Adele seemed a little agitated as she spoke and she turned her head away looking through the window into the square before speaking out ‘This young woman is so beautiful. Who is it?’ Haven’t you asked your aunt?
Robert had no immediate answer but he agreed she was indeed beautiful and that there was a resemblance to him. Adele looked at him almost demanding some response shaking her head in disbelief at Roberts lack of inquisitiveness and uttering that it was typical of a man.
He mumbled an apology for his ignorance in his response but only because he wanted to find out for himself. He thought this this must be someone with family connection perhaps someone related to his father and aunt. Maybe a sister who had been sent away or done something criminal.
Adele gave up and suddenly announced they must leave whilst looking at her pocket watch and winding it. She had made a lunch reservation at the club and arranged a meeting that she announced whilst on their way in the carriage that was still waiting outside. Lucky that Adele could afford such luxury.
During the journey Adele enquired further and wouldn’t let the matter drop. She wanted to point out what she’d noticed and concluded. She felt the woman was either an Aunt or possibly a great aunt because of the family resemblance and she made reference to the signature and date in the corner of the painting. A famous painter in London who still did business even though he was old. They could visit and ask.
Robert didn’t have an answer but this was the third painting that now intrigued him. There was a resemblance and he had little knowledge of his family tree unlike Adele who knew so much about hers. He only really met his parents and two aunts on his mother’s side who had no resemblance to him and he supposed neither did his mother. He must take after his father’s side of the family and he recalled his aunt’s first comments on arrival at Tavistock Square.
Since Adele said nothing about observing him hurrying across the hallway dressed as Roberta he hoped that she hadn’t noticed, or if so, she hadn’t realised it was him. Even so he was a little surprised since had it been the same situation in reverse he would not have ignored it. He would have found a way to introduce the subject at the very least. There was a strange quiet.
Adele advised that she had dressed suitably for the club and apologised if this embarrassed Robert but she had no choice. She was smiling as the words passed her lips. Robert had felt completely at ease with Adele presenting as Arthur and felt she made a handsome man as well as a beautiful woman.
However Adele was dressed this was a nice opportunity to be free on the streets of London without expense or risk of robbery or attack. Adele put her arm around his shoulder as friend might do and apologised for being bad tempered and so inquisitive but she wanted Robert to understand more about his aunt and her apparent wealth because her name was well respected in the club amongst members.
Sadly because she was a woman she could not be a member although some members had knowledge of a business partner and a male friend.
Robert knew nothing of this so he was quiet and listened carefully. Perhaps they might meet someone who had knowledge of his aunt whilst he also intended to try to glean what he could by spending as much time with her as possible. He knew that meant spending time as Miss Roberta. It seemed inevitable that he would have to be open with Adele.
They soon arrived at there destination.
Chapter 8
Throughout the short journey Robert had not fully settled into his seat because he felt awkward in case Adele had recognised him in the hallway. He sat with his knees together that was a posture he’d adopted for comfort due to the tightly laced undergarment he’d been wearing earlier. On the other hand Adele was settled comfortably in her seat legs outstretched taking full advantage of the freedom of wearing breeches and a jacket.
As the carriage stopped she took his hand to comfort him and asked if something was wrong but he turned away hardly dare to look her in the eye. Adele persisted but Robert still didn’t open up or respond. In his opinion it wasn’t the right time nor the place to open up. Adele stepped out first and Robert moved to follow but his foot slipped on the step and he fell forward.
Adele managed to catch him and stop him falling to the ground as the carriage lurched forward because the horse had been scared by Roberts cry. Adele was strong enough to hold Robert tightly until he recovered his balance and the driver managed to control his horse. Robert was very embarrassed and was full of apology but Adele just smiled feeling quite pleased with herself that she had reacted so quickly as any man would do in these circumstances. She looked him in the eye with suspicion that there was a resemblance with someone. She whispered that he smelled nice of perfume and that he shouldn’t be embarrassed. Then she reached to her pocket to pay the carriage driver.
Robert tried to stay calm and appreciated that Adele had stopped his fall and held on. He had wanted to kiss her in appreciation but since they were both dressed in male garb he hesitated in case it might cause embarrassment. There were people passing by as well as the driver and the commissionaire of the Gentleman’s Club who stepped forward to help.
Adele didn’t comment further on the perfume that Robert was wearing but she did feel that this was unusual and she was intrigued. She knew that Robert was slightly effeminate and fair of skin but he was not in a good financial condition to be able to purchase expensive fragrances and she knew this was not cheap. She guessed this was imported from France so concluded they had been provided by his aunt. She regretted that she had not taken the same care and attention before leaving her apartments. One of the disadvantages of dressing as Arthur for the Gentleman’s club was that she’d had to rely on the soaps to deal with daily body odours. Was Robert aware that this was a strong perfume and intended for ladies?
They entered the club thanking the commissionaire for his assistance and Adele moved forward to sign the visitor book and once again Robert was nominated by her as a guest. The attendant posted behind the desk knew Mr Arthur very well and was polite and welcoming but he observed Robert closely because his appearance was more common than that of a gentleman since his clothes were made from rough working class materials cut so they appeared too large for him that in fact accentuated his slightness and in some lights even his femininity. Lucky for Robert that his waistcoat held his budding breasts tightly. His morning coat was not cut too closely and appeared oversize. Adele noticed the stare by the attendant and her look soon put him clearly in his place. She might have to help Robert with a loan or a gift or two later after her business was out of the way. In the Club standards had to be kept high and once she sorted out outstanding loans and debts she would be free to oust the greedy arrogant men trying to steal her inheritance with the aid of a City Bank.
They escorted and were soon seated in the day lounge by the fire in comfortable leather chairs. Adele crossed her legs as most men do enjoying the freedom to relax and she then picked up a copy of The Times newspaper to glance at the current headlines and current financial matters. Robert was left to his thoughts and without thinking he sat more straight in his chair with his knees firmly together as he quickly learned to sit whilst in his Aunt’s company whilst presenting as Roberta. His Aunt seemed keen to teach him good manners and had criticised Roberts father for not seeking her help to raise a daughter properly.
Robert gazed around the room and his eyes moved across to two gentlemen seated by a large window taking morning refreshments and laughing quite loudly without care they might be heard or offend others. The topic of conversation would not have been appropriate in front of ladies and he moved uncomfortably in his seat since Adele might be offended. In truth by now she was used to such talk that may have been why she had picked up The Times and didn’t consider she was ignoring Robert.
Robert couldn’t help but absorb their tales of their recent escapades. It appeared they had both been drinking heavily the night before in some place that was renowned for heavy drinking, gambling, smoking and the accompaniment of ladies. Robert had never been exposed to such places and his jaw must have been wide open when a butler appeared to serve some nibbles and glasses of sherry. Adele had ordered them on the way in not having eaten breakfast and Robert tried to be polite by taking a plate and selecting a few small items from the tray moving things around to appear that he was eating.
Adele put down the newspaper and could hardly wait to start eating. Robert didn’t have to pretend he was eating any longer since Adele had an appetite for both of them. She nodded towards the two men since she knew them both and then apologised to Robert if he was offended by their behaviour. They regularly stayed at the club to be away from their wives since the Club had several private rooms with sleeping facilities and Adele was sure that they bribed the staff to allow ladies to accompany them late at night entering via a private door to the rear.
Robert felt embarrassed that Adele should talk openly since these matters were not to be for open broadcast in front of ladies. She took his hand and tried to calm him before he jumped up to complain knowing he was no match for them and would be asked to leave if any disturbance took place. These men were wealthy and full members with family association with the Club. Both had been educated at Eton where boys were allowed to behave as they liked and keep a score of conquests.
It was clear to Robert that Adele slipped more easily into the role of the opposite sex than he had done but then he realised that she had first adopted this role a long time ago and carried it on during her frequent visits to London so she could be viewed as an equal and deal with matters that needed her personal attention.
Perhaps the touch and concern of Adele was having an effect on Robert since by now he felt his breasts were bursting and his nipples craved attention. They were hard and he felt this was another slight growth spurt taking place. He might need to take medical advice soon since it was getting more difficult to understand what was wrong with his body. Lower down everything seemed fine even though he had difficulty sometimes if he visited the mens room compared to others. They never seemed to have to search so much as he did.
Adele was quick to realise his discomfort and stood up asking if something was wrong. He told her he had some slight pain in his chest area that was because he’d eaten too much at breakfast. He was shocked as she reached forward and placed her hand under his shirt then onto his left breast then across to the right one. His nipples grew in size in response to her cold hand and she raised her eyebrows as she looked him in the Eye. Nothing was said but Adele smiled and said she now understood his discomfort quickly removing her hand and offering to provide him with a solution as soon as her meeting was out of the way.
Robert’s cheeks flushed brightly again that seemed to be a never-ending problem he was having since his arrival in London. He’d never had this difficulty in Bristol and when he and Adele first met. He fastened his shirt and the top buttons of his waistcoat and asked Adele not to fuss him. He thanked her for the offer of help and told her that he would sort it out later with some cooling massage oils that he was sure were available in the store close to his Aunt’s house. Adele just smiled.
Before the topic could be discussed any further a message was delivered to Adele advising ‘him’ that her visitors had arrived so her attention immediately switched away from Roberts sore breasts. She apologised to him and took her leave so she could establish who was in attendance and then accompany them to a private upstairs meeting room she had arranged. Robert had no idea what was so important so he stood still and could only observe her as she strode manfully towards the reception area. He admired her ability to project such a masculine image when he knew how tender and submissive she had been when they first met. She seemed to have two personalities and today this was Arthur oozing with confidence and courage.
Robert had offered to help whilst in the taxi carriage but Adele would have none of it since she felt this was a private matter and her family honour was at stake. He was a little taken aback at the rejection but in truth she didn’t want Robert to be witness to the underhand dealings she might have to consider to deal with these opportunists who were friends of the real culprits trying to ruin the family business and take over their part ownership of the Club. There had been several parties involved at the time of her grand-fathers original investment and its value had substantially increased. Adele knew of some but the most significant one next to her grandfather was yet to be established. Even her lawyers had been unable to gather much information despite their high fees. This was the main asset of the family now since other business ventures had been put under severe pressure in recent years whilst Adele was blossoming into womanhood.
As Adele left him she did have the presence of mind to glance back over her shoulder as he returned to his seat. He’d changed since they had first met and she couldn’t quite put her finger on it. She chuckled at that thought because she had stepped forward to search underneath his shirt to examine his chest and put more than a finger on his chest that was more formed as a bust than as a muscular chest. Naturally her hand had automatically cupped his breast and his nipple was clearly aroused that wasn’t common in men as far as she knew. Surely Robert was a man wasn’t he? She cast her mind back to events in Bristol but he’d been keen to remain covered whilst she had been responsive to his gentle massages and tender kisses. He had stopped just when she had been ready to be taken for the first time by a man.
She shook hands with the three braggarts out of politeness and escorted them upstairs taking the steps two at a time to arrive in advance of them and show she was more than capable of handling herself. All three were older than her and obviously sought out opportunities to take advantage of country folk that was an image Adele had projected in her previous meetings. They professed to have investment capital in a joint fund and could provide a loan to help Adeles family business but they wanted the shares in the club as security.
Adele was not of a mood to prolong the discussion since she would prefer to attend to Robert who was her guest after-all. The proposed agreement was tabled and Adele quickly scanned it recognising that it was completely one-sided in their favour and as desperate as she might be to find a solution these men were weasels in her opinion. She told them that she had friends in the City who had knowledge of their past dealings with respectable people seeking loans and investment and all had failed. One poor man had committed suicide and two had been killed in accidents and all three cases were suspicious. The police had been involved with the same case investigators and no charges made. The three men had gone silent when confronted and tried to protest complete innocence but their persistence to have Adele sign the agreement waned significantly. In any case Adele was dealing as Arthur so such an arrangement would have been impossible and would require a witness hence she didn’t want Robert involved.
Eventually the three had a private discussion and withdrew their offer saying the risk was too great since Adele had not proven direct ownership of the shares in the Club nor of her involvement in her fathers’ businesses. Adele was courteous and accompanied them downstairs to ensure they left the premises. She felt very proud of herself for remaining calm and to be the match of three men. Something stirred inside her. Fancy a woman negotiating on equal terms. She knew she had the right spirit to be a successful business man and hold onto the Club and to ensure her grandfather’s pictures would hang on the walls as long as she was alive even if she had to spend even more time as Arthur at the sacrifice of her womanhood.
She needed to relieve the passion that had built up inside her by now and sought out Robert who she found strolling around the walled garden in the sunshine taking the air. She was hungry but not for food.
Robert was a little shocked to see her so soon after she’d left him and moreso by the passionate embrace he received. It was obvious that the meeting had not been a problem by the smile on Adeles face. She held on to him since they were alone in the garden and maintained the kiss inserting her tongue into his mouth as the kiss lingered. He welcomed the insertion even though it was a new experience for him that seemed strange. Adele pulled back and then steered him towards an enclosed seat in the corner of the garden surrounded by beautiful blue Wisteria flowers taking his hand and explaining what had happened as best she could without disclosing any of the financial difficulties her family were experiencing in their business.
Their breasts had touched during their embrace and it was apparent that Roberts were still very sensitive. Adele asked if he was OK and then repeated her offer from earlier. Again he tried to decline but Adele was adamant to take charge and she wasn’t going to take no for an answer.
Adele gently pulled him from his seat and headed towards the exit of the lounge and Robert followed. He assumed she was going to accompany him to a physician’s store. Instead she dangled her room key and said they should go to her meeting room for some refreshments and a celebration drink so they could relax in privacy since she’d hired the room for the rest of the day.
When they arrived at the room once the door was closed they embraced and clung onto each other for their dear lives. As their breasts came together again Robert felt the strain on his vest and he didn’t object when Adele released the buttons on his waistcoat and removed his jacket.
His nipples were aroused once again as Adele removed her own jacket and waistcoat and then it was apparent that her own nipples were firm and just as erect as his. Robert caressed them gently with Adele guiding his hands to teach him the finer arts. She moved him carefully towards the sofa and pushed him gently down to lay him back in readiness to remove his boots. Then there was a gentle knock on the door. Adele jumped to answer it whilst Robert tidied himself. It was the waiter with a bottle of champagne and the refreshments. It seemed to take the waiter an age to open the champagne and he missed nothing as he watched them. They weren’t the first two gentlemen to hire a room and these two looked very friendly.
It was to be Roberts first experience of champagne so he was quite excited. The waiter seemed to smile knowingly at Robert as if he suspected that he was the more effeminate one and on deeper scrutiny he might even have considered Robert to be a female friend in male garb. After all it was the middle of the day and the discreet private entrance was closed to all. Robert had removed the band holding his hair so his appearance was confusing to a stranger.
As they sipped the first glasses and Robert expressed his delight at the experience there was another knock on the door and Adele bade him enter in her deepest voice. A tray of oysters were placed in front of them with plates and implements. There seemed no end to Adeles effort to celebrate her success. Robert was deeply grateful to participate and in a flash he found himself without boots and his first oyster sliding down his throat. Another first experience.
Adele smiled at his ability to swallow it whole and encouraged him to wash it down with more champagne. Then another oyster with yet more lubricant and another before finishing the plate herself.
Robert was feeling a little light headed by this time and his breasts ached for comfort and attention. Adele looked down and beckoned Robert towards a door in the corner of the room suggesting he might prefer to rest in comfort. Robert stumbled a little feeling quite happy and he grabbed Adeles arm to steady himself. He was surprised that the champagne had no apparent effect on her.
Through the door was a bed chamber with a four post bed covered in drapes. Adele helped Robert remove his breeches and top shirt and helped him climb into the bed between the sheets that were fresh and soft. He snuggled down resting his head on the pillows that Adele arranged so he was as upright as possible in case he would vomit. Robert had no intention of letting that happen and beckoned Adele to rest alongside him. Adele quickly removed her boots and outer garments and was soon beneath the sheets placing her arm beneath his head as he closed his eyes in readiness to drift into a deep sleep.
Adele looked into his eyes and pushed his hair from across his face. Right now there was little sign of the man she had first met in Bristol and he had distinct feminine features and very beautiful hair. She stooped and kissed him briefly on the lips tasting the champagne but not the oysters he had eaten. Perhaps he’d awake refreshed in an hour or so she decided to take advantage of the comfort of the bed herself and soon he turned over as she wrapped herself around him cupping his breasts in her hands.
She massaged them gently and that was enough to wake Robert who turned onto his back. She disappeared under the sheets and her lips soon touched his nipples and she licked them before gently sucking them in turn. He couldn’t contain himself any longer and he burst.
Adele smiled but would have to be patient until she could guide him how to relieve her passion. She let him recover knowing that the oysters would soon take effect and stir him from his slumber.
Chapter 9
Robert was spent despite contributing very little to the afternoons exertion and he lay back to try to recover. He knew he had an obligation to return the favour but fortunately Adele was not expecting him to perform immediately and she was contemplating maintaining the initiative and helping Robert to refine his technique.
They both lay back with Robert closing his eyes thinking he may sleep a while but whilst he was in a stupor Adele decided to politely raise the matter of the rather attractive lady who she’d seen in the hallway at his Aunt’s house.
That shocked Robert into consciousness and he quickly sobered as well. At least sufficiently to realise he had to be honest and truthful rather than tell a lie. His mind was racing and he was fortunate that Adele was being patient and could almost see his mind racing. He started to speak and then stopped and stuttered again admitting to Adele that it was him. He didn’t expand on it because he was nervous and he felt ashamed.
He peeped out a corner of his eye and expected Adele to throw back the sheets and jump from the bed but there was no movement. He opened both eyes and was greeted with a smile with no evidence of anger or even disbelief. Adele merely stated that she was glad to hear that since she’d have been concerned and deeply worried if it the lady was competition to her. Robert wanted to speak but words wouldn’t come from his mouth. He knew what he wanted to say and what he’d have liked to say but all this did was cause a jumbled reply.
Adele calmed him with a kiss and put her arm around him admitting that she’d absorbed all this lady’s features and assets and concluded it was either a sister of Robert or Robert himself. Since he had no sister that meant one thing to confirm and once in the carriage she had absolutely no doubt. Robert was searching for a reason to jump out of bed and run away but he decided to come clean. His explanation started and he tried to imply he’d dressed as Roberta to please his Aunt and that he’d had no intention of deceiving her. She saw him as her niece not as her nephew and as Roberta he was made very welcome and found it easy to communicate with her. Then he admitted that Polly had been convinced he was female dressed in male garb and that he was his Aunts niece in disguise. Robert just went along with the ruse because it seemed natural and both Aunt Roberta and Polly accepted him and talked to him in an open way. He could never have anticipated learning so much in such a short time and he’d found that his Aunt had been deeply in love and he believed the pictures were of her and her suitor.
Then a tear rolled down Robert’s cheek and Adele calmed him and didn’t press for him to continue. She said they could talk later but Robert said he was puzzled and needed to try to gather more information from his Aunt. Her suitor had been killed, supposedly in an accident, that seemed to have been covered up because he was from a wealthy family trying to avoid a scandal. Added to that the family had prevented this dashing young man from marrying Aunt Roberta and had insisted he marry a lady of their choosing who were also a successful business family in Bristol that would have mutual benefit. It seemed that this man had looked after Aunt Roberta and started a business that he funded and shared with her. Robert hoped that Aunt Roberta might expand further over dinner that evening but if he presented as Robert he doubted she would speak freely.
Adele was immediately interested and insisted that Robert carry on the masquerade and at the same time she was excited by the chance to see Robert dressed in his finery and she had an idea to suggest.
They settled down under the sheets and Robert felt relieved and completely relaxed so they cuddled and kissed a while. Sure enough something stirred beneath the sheets that was either the effect of the oysters or the great relief for Robert that Adele was encouraging him to dress as Roberta and present to her. It did excite him and it didn’t take long before the two of them connected and this time it was Robert who expended most of the energy until Adele twisted her way to the top and finished him off.
Robert was done and needed a sleep whereas Adele was piecing together what she’d learned and wondering about Aunt Roberta and her connection with this man. He must have been well known in London and maybe he’d been a member of the Club.
Eventually Adele decided to wake Robert from his deep sleep and announced it was time to leave. She had a plan that she explained to Robert and after a while he agreed. It didn’t take long to consider Adele’s idea that was to return to Tavistock Place and arrange for Adele to join young Miss Roberta and Aunt Roberta at dinner to widen the scope of the conversation and present Adele as Arthur who was part owner of the Gentleman’s Club and gentleman friend of Miss Roberta.
Robert knew that the introduction of a successful man would please Aunt Roberta.
They both freshened up and dressed hardly keeping their hands off each other and giggled at the way things were working out with both of them free to express themselves as opposite genders having enjoyed a successful visit to the Club for both of them. Adele was proud of herself and of her performance in more ways than one. Robert on the other hand was falling in love and wondered if they might carry on the disguises for a while at least. He had lost his virginity at long last even if this was in an unconventional way.
Adele settled her account and arranged a carriage and they were soon arriving back at Tavistock Square where they decided to enter the library to look through some of the literature searching for more information and also to look again at more paintings.
Robert confirmed the additional visitor for dinner that Polly checked with Aunt Roberta then Adele opted to return to her apartments to change to a more suitable attire for dinner and had just the outfit to catch the eye of Miss Roberta who would need to bathe and select something special to wear for the evening.
Polly rushed around and was excited to organise an adjustment to the menu with the cook and insisted that her daughter helped out waiting table for the evening.
Robert sunk into the warm bath and Polly attended to him chattering away trying to establish if young Mr Arthur was to be a regular visitor. She didn’t need an answer so she knew Aunt Roberta would be very happy.
Robert attempted to gather a little more information about Roberta from Polly with a little success. There was much more to come during the evening.
Chapter 10
Polly was almost as excited as Robert as they chatted whilst she brushed his hair and commented on the sweet smell of his body due to the effect of the perfume waters of his bath. She teased him about the wonderful glow he was projecting wondering what might have brought about the change. She cast her mind back to her late teenage years recalling her first experience with the man she later married that had a similar effect. That had led to her first pregnancy and she hoped the same result would not happen to Miss Roberta.
They discussed about how Robert might dress for dinner with Mr Arthur as a guest and advised that Mdm Roberta had decided to abandon her traditional black opting for deep green that did make her appear much younger. Robert asked Polly to make a choice from the wardrobe on his behalf and she returned with a deep crimson low cut dress and small wrap that made his jaw drop. How could he consider wearing such a fine dress in front of Adele who would surely be shocked? He tried to resist but Polly ignored him. She brought him fresh undergarments and eventually he was pressed to raise his arms to allow the dress to slide over his upper body. It fitted perfectly once again.
This time the frontage of the dress seemed to be missing that left his soft flesh exposed and he watched how Polly adjusted the laces and two firm breasts made their entry into the world for the first time. Robert stared into the glass in amazement and touched them. His nipples were still tender but this time no Adele on hand to help soothe them. Not now at least.
Robert sat in front of the dressing table and allowed Polly to finish brushing his hair and produced a black silk ribbon to tie it back that opened his face with Polly commenting that Mr Arthur would be star struck. The door bell rang and Polly rushed downstairs to welcome Adele who was punctual again. She was dressed in a newly tailored suit with cravat and a diamond pin that she had inherited from her Grandfather.
She waited in the hall since she saw movement on the landing and Robert appeared in his finery looking down from the top of the staircase and Adele froze in admiration. Robert looked stunning and Adele felt honoured to be her suitor and looked forward to an evening of conversation and perhaps a little private companionship afterwards. She stepped forward and held out her hand as Robert reached the bottom step. Adele took his hand and kissed it gently whispering that he looked like a princess.
They took sherry in the reception room in front of a roaring log fire awaiting the arrival of Aunt Roberta and Adele made reference to the likeness of Robert to the beautiful lady in the painting hanging above the fireplace. He flushed slightly and of course he was very flattered at the complement.
Soon afterwards Aunt Roberta entered the room and Adele blended into the background conscious that she only had eyes for her beautiful niece. Adele now realised that Robert had little choice but to pander to Aunt Roberta’s wishes. He was everything an eligible man could wish for and Adele wanted to be that man. Why was life so cruel. She felt she couldn’t carry on the masquerade back in Bristol but she was determined now to extend her stay in London if only she could persuade Robert to do the same and present as Roberta full time. To please his Aunt of course.
Pollys daughter appeared with another small tray of sherry that Aunt Roberta had insisted to be delivered to toast he beautiful niece and Robert did his best to curtsey. Adele had to hide her smile behind her hand but it wasn’t such a bad first attempt and Aunt Roberta was impressed. She insisted they be seated and Adele sat beside Robert touching his knee before taking his hand. Finally Aunt Roberta acknowledged Adele and complemented her on her appearance welcoming her to dinner.
There were a few sentences of chit chat during which Adele made reference to the beautiful lady in the picture. After a moment or two of silence Aunt Roberta admitted it was her and the man was a close friend and business partner. Neither Adele nor Robert found the courage to ask the next question about the infant. They moved through to the dining room and were seated with Adele and Robert opposite each other and Aunt Roberta at the head of the table.
The questions then came from Aunt Roberta asking about the reasons for Adeles visit to London. One reason was Robert of course but since Aunt Roberta didn’t seem to acknowledge her nephew only a niece he referred only to the Gentleman’s Club and her need to deal with troublemakers trying to increase their stake-holding. After some further exchanges of information Adele realised that Aunt Roberta’s suitor had visited the Club on a number of occasions although she was not permitted. Aunt Roberta did seem very interested in Adeles association with the Club and she knew her grandfather.
At the end of the second course Aunt Roberta then suddenly commented that she recalled that Adeles Grandfather announced a granddaughter but she’d lost contact so didn’t realise he had a grandson. Robert and Adele looked at each other but said nothing.
During the next course Adele established the name of Aunt Roberta’s male companion so she was determined to check the membership records the next day.
By the time dinner was finished Aunt Roberta had managed to avoid the subject of the infant in the picture over the fireplace and then she excused herself to go to her bed.
Robert and Adele were left to themselves with a glass of port each and chance to reflect on what they’d learned. They moved to the quiet of the reception room to look again at the picture whilst relaxing together on the settee.
They spent the next hour embracing and exchanging kisses with Robert wishing that Adele didn’t have to return to her apartments. His breasts ached for Adele’s massage treatment and were almost bursting out of his dress. On the other hand Adele wanted to whisk Robert upstairs to enjoy a repeat of their afternoon’s pleasures.
Both had to control themselves and they agreed that Adele should take her carriage that was waiting and return the following morning to spend the day together. There seemed much to do and it seemed certain to both of them that it was in their mutual interest.
Chapter 11
Back in his room Robert required the assistance of Polly to undress and she told him that she’d very impressed by Mr Arthur who was very well mannered as well as being attentive to Roberta. She had the impression that this was a relationship that would end in a marriage proposal and pictured a brood of young children that made Robert cough a little and then brought a broad smile to his face. He imagined what Adele would say and was excited to tease her the following day.
Polly also had the news that Aunt Roberta had requested that Polly’s sister and husband be asked to assist her with her duties whilst Roberta was staying since her workload had increased and she hoped to encourage them to dine with her oftenly.
By the time Robert was changed and slipping between the sheets of his bed he was ready to sleep and he barely had the strength to say goodnight as Polly left. He’d had quite a day and Adele had been very impressed at his portrayal as a young woman and the reaction of Aunt Roberta who seemed to dote on him/her.
Adele had left the house full of optimism that together they’d come closer together and she had quite enjoyed her extended day as Arthur and the femininity of Robert that made her feel stronger and more confident in her guise since it was never in doubt throughout the day. Added to that she had found new information from Aunt Roberta over dinner that might give useful background on her grandfather.
Possibly this may lead her and Robert establish who had been the love of Aunt Roberta’s early life and how she’d become successful and accumulated her wealth. For Roberts benefit she hoped it might eventually bring Aunt Roberta and Roberts father back together as a family that could also give Robert more security and ability to be independent and free of debt.
The following morning Robert had no hesitation in alighting from his bed and opening the curtains to let in the early morning sunlight. As Polly entered the room he was stretching and standing on tiptoes feeling like he could dance. Polly remarked about his slender profile and sun glinting in his hair that brought joy to his ears. He had always been embarrassed by his lack of stature and muscle but in this house he felt special and different.
Early morning procedures in the bedroom followed the same path as the day before with Polly running a bath and selecting a morning outfit suitable for breakfast and taking air in the garden with Aunt Roberta. Soon Robert was settled at the breakfast table with Aunt Roberta for a light meal of cold meats, bread and fruit. Aunt Roberta looked ten years younger and was very talkative so it was another opportunity to gather information about her early life in London and the lost relationship with a handsome man. He did indeed come from Bristol going by the first name of William.
Finally as they strolled in the garden Robert managed to switch conversation back to the picture over the fireplace and the infant in the ladies arms who Aunt Roberta had admitted was her. Aunt Roberta went quiet and only said they were young and innocent and the child was beautiful but had not had the chance to enjoy the life she deserved because of family hatred and manipulation.
Robert knew that William had been forced to marry another woman instead of his Aunt Roberta and had died tragically or surrounded by mystery. But he’d set up a business with Aunt Roberta and she confirmed that he maintained regular contact and the business had been very successful. It seemed that this caused a lot of anger and jealousy back in Bristol and that Aunt Roberta believed that William had been killed in a fight over her and then it had been covered up.
Robert was definitely now accepted as a close confident whilst presenting as Roberta and he was feeling very comfortable presenting as a young woman whilst with Aunt Roberta and Polly. He wanted to ask more questions but he decided it was better to be patient and develop the full trust of Aunt Roberta.
During their discussions a message had been delivered from Mr Arthur advising that he would call for Robert at 11-30 am inviting him for lunch at the Club. Adele wanted them to exchange thoughts and opinions about what they’d learned from Aunt Roberta the night before and now Robert had more to add. Robert(a) told Aunt Roberta that she/he had a lunch invitation and was excused to ready him/herself.
Robert met Polly upstairs in his room and felt somewhat reluctant to change but he had no choice since he was going out and furthermore they were dining again at the Club. Once again he felt his male clothes made him feel shabby compared to the outfits he had at his disposal as a young woman. His disappointment was noticed by Polly who asked why she was dressing as a man again when Mr Arthur had been overwhelmed at her beauty the night before. Robert preferred to stay silent and it wasn’t Polly’s place to follow up her question.
When Adele arrived they dallied in the reception room since Adele wanted to look again at the pictures and establish the name of Aunt Roberta’s suitor. When Robert arrived she looked him up and down a smiled advising that she’d called to collect his sister. They shook hands but wanted to hug and had to be content by looking into each others eyes. Then Polly entered with her sister who was introduced and despatched to serve them some sherry. Aunt Roberta had taken a rest in her room much to the relief of Robert since he’d changed.
Robert took the opportunity to ask Polly about the man in the picture over the fire place referring to him as William as advised by his Aunt. Polly felt she could answer without fear of reprimand since Roberta knew his first name. His name was William James Hudson and Adele’s eyes lit up immediately since she recalled the Hudson family had connection to her grandfather and was a possible investor in the club and a business acquaintance.
They quickly consumed their sherry and departed the house to board the awaiting taxi carriage. They held on to each other and Adele couldn’t control herself any longer and stretched over to kiss Robert full on the lips. It was a long passionate kiss seemingly between two young men but clearly fully committed with great affection.
Chapter 12
On arrival at the Club Adele and Robert were welcomed by the commissionaire who recognised them immediately from the day before. Adele smiled and was pleased she’d tipped him generously that she knew would ensure that he was discreet and helpful if she needed information. He opened the large door of the Club greeting Adele as Mr Arthur that made her proud of her achievement to enter the exclusive world of London Gentlemen. He hadn’t remembered Roberts name that didn’t cause any offence since he was hardly likely to be a frequent visitor. He could see how much such a small thing meant to Adele that made him proud.
Signing in at Reception was easier than the day before but the attendant chatted to Adele who he had seen a number of times in the Club. As Robert stood back and tried to be as invisible as possible the two of them were joking about something. The attendant nodded in the direction of Robert and Robert then had the feeling he had been the subject of the mirth. As they took their seats in the lounge to relax before taking lunch Robert asked Adele what had caused the levity. Adele couldn’t contain herself and burst into laughter since the staff had been convince that Robert was an interloper but had been discreet because Mr Arthur was one of the shareholders of the Club.
It appeared they hadn’t missed the close bond in the private room and the fact that the bed had been disturbed and slightly soiled. What made Adele laugh was that they didn’t question her masculinity but felt that Robert was female masquerading as a young business colleague of Mr Arthur. Robert was speechless for a few moments before acknowledging that he had found it difficult to recover his masculinity and revert back to himself the day before. He was experiencing the same feeling again.
Adele on the other hand was spending all her time in male garb whilst in London and relished the opportunity to do as she pleased and not have to deal with fraternisation and lude comments. She enjoyed stretching out her legs and sitting with them apart or loosely crossed when relaxing and not being constrained by a corset or forced to sit on the edge of a seat with a straight back. She whispered to Robert that he should venture outside his Aunt’s house as Roberta to experience what she was trying to explain.
Then whilst Robert thought about it and was ready to respond she appeared lost in thought for a moment or two and he realised she wasn’t interested in his answer. Adele had already made a decision and she decided to plan something where Robert would accompany her to a social event of mixed company the next day. She imagined that Robert would be able to dress appropriately and perhaps she might convince him to stay over at her apartment with his Aunts permission. If indeed that was necessary. It would be a test of Roberts true desires and her own for that matter. They’d enjoyed themselves so far hadn’t they?
Robert finally managed to catch the attention of Adele and bring her out of her reverie. Adele apologised and humoured Robert for a while trying to pay attention. He was trying to make a plan for the rest of the day and establish if Adele would join him and his Aunt Roberta for dinner later. Aunt Roberta had pressed her niece Roberta at breakfast since she took a liking for Mr Arthur and felt they seemed very happy in each others company.
Adele accepted the invitation and said that she would arrange to send a messenger boy back to the house with acceptance so that Polly could prepare dinner in good time. She left Robert seated with a newspaper attempting to appear as masculine as he could considering his small frame and tendency to sit forward on the large leather chair with legs crossed.
Adele made the message arrangement with the reception attendant and then took the opportunity to request to see the Club’s manager to arrange a meeting for after lunch in his office. The manager was much older than Adele and had worked at the Club for a long time starting as young boy so Adele felt he would have god knowledge of its history and her Grandfather in particular. Adele had not met him before since women were not allowed to visit but now as Arthur she had her chance. A meeting might prove awkward without proof she was related to her grandfather but she was a full member that had been arranged by her grandfather and had evidence in her pocket with her membership details and a signature so she expected this to be checked.
The Manager, Mr Ramsbottom, did check the membership details and agreed to meet for an hour at 2 pm. Adele finally returned to Robert who had taken the opportunity to close his eyes and was almost asleep. She approached him quietly from behind his chair and leaned over to kiss him on top of his head. He awoke immediately in slight shock feeling embarrassed in case their affection had been seen but the room was quiet. Then they moved through to the dining area for a light lunch of vegetable soup followed by fresh salmon fish and potatoes. Robert was not very hungry but made an attempt out of politeness. Adele cleared her plates not having had breakfast.
Robert was conscious of his appearance and requested that they visit a tailor and a draper so that he might make some modest purchases and establish the cost and time required to improve his wardrobe. Adele had no hesitation in agreeing to introduce him to her favoured establishments who had been discreet and provided an excellent service whilst keeping a record of her measurement details for future visits. She had already accumulated a good range of outfits that she kept at her apartments and she offered to help by allowing Robert to try them on if he visited her there later. Robert was a little apprehensive but nodded and smiled since it made financial sense. Adele thought it would be a chance to be intimate together and it seemed a good excuse. She intended to help Robert select and purchase items anyway since she had a more than adequate income as well as her inheritance.
As lunch finished Adele asked Robert if he would excuse her and mind resting alone in the lounge whilst she met with Mr Ramsbottom. He felt hurt and excluded but he understood what Adele was trying to do and it wasn’t really his business. Or was it? He wanted to find out more about his Aunts business relationship with William Hudson and based on what he had understood this person had a link to the Club.
Chapter 13
Adele felt supremely confident in her role as Mr Arthur and felt her grandfather would be very proud as she shook the General Manager by the hand as firmly as she could. He introduced himself as Mr James Ramsbottom and he had been waiting as Arthur entered the reception hall.
After the formal greeting Mr Ramsbottom made reference to Adeles Grandfather and uncle who he’d met and respected without realising that Adele was actually the granddaughter and daughter of the two significant former members and patrons. He knew that Arthur was a significant shareholder with the connections to remove him but he had his own backers amongst shareholders and was loyal to them.
They went through to the General Managers office that was large and spacious with a beautiful set of ornate furniture and wood panelled walls. Adele recalled this was an office originally established for her grandfather and noted that there were no portraits of him nor any evidence of his great work in establishing the Club.
It had a stale aroma of old gentlemen and cigars that lacked a woman’s touch and she suspected that Ramsbottom used it for private meetings rather than carrying out activities of a General Manager of one of the most prestigious clubs in London. It was as if her family had no connection at all.
It took a few exchanges before Adele took full control of the meeting as Mr Arthur and she explained the purpose of his visit requiring access to historical records that he knew were locked in a large metal safe in an annex room. Her father had told her as much information as he could from his sick bed in the week before he passed. His description was accurate.
Arthur demanded he be left alone in the annex room once the safe was opened and he worked his way through various documents on the shelves in the safe. She knew what she was looking for that was the original copy of the agreement made between 4 investors who provided the capital to purchase the property and set it up as a Gentleman’s Club. Her grandfather had provided 51% of the original investment and had it not been for the information she’d gathered from Robert and Aunt Roberta one of the names would have been a puzzle to her. There in black and white was the name William James Hudson of Bristol who had invested 20% of the initial share capital.
Arthur searched for more information trying to establish if William had sold his shares or even transferred them wondering who might have inherited them upon his tragic death. It required a more intensive search or alternatively a visit to the lawyers who had set up the Agreement. She wrote down the information that she needed and she knew of the lawyers who were still practising in the centre of London.
She decided that Ramsbottom was likely to report to his backers so decided not to say anything to him and feign that she was no more enlightened about the history of the Club than when she’d arrived. She thanked Ramsbottom and ambled back to the lounge area to find Robert taking the opportunity to casually look at pictures on display.
Robert almost jumped from his seat to meet her as she entered the lounge and quietly asked if Adele had any news to tell. Adele just smiled and said she would tell him later. He realised from her look that the information needed to be discussed in privacy and there were several members scattered around the lounge.
Adele decided the best place to talk was out in the open in Hyde Park and they signed out of the club taking care to ensure they behaved as two young gentleman would behave after a nice lunch in relaxed surroundings and indicating to the commissionaire that they were ready to find some female company and seeking his advice. Adele felt he would pass the information to Ramsbottom so when the carriage was out of sight of the Club Adele diverted the driver to Hyde Park.
Armed with the information that Aunt Roberta’s young suitor was an investor and shareholder Robert felt that they should raise the matter with Aunt Roberta over dinner and as if it was a problem Robert said he should continue to take the guise of Miss Roberta that pleased Aunt Roberta and loosened her tongue.
With all the excitement it limited the opportunity to linger at the tailors and the drapers to purchase better quality male garb for Robert as had been planned but neither was in the mood to dally or give the matter any priority and anyway Adele still had the preference to accompany Robert as Roberta to admire how he carried himself as a young woman.
Adele dropped Robert at Tavistock Square and returned to her apartment to freshen up and change allowing Robert plenty of time to take an afternoon bath and dress with guidance of Polly.
Aunt Roberta was delighted to have their company again at dinner and was highly impressed at the beauty of her niece when they met for sherry awaiting Arthurs arrival. Robert stomach felt so light with excitement to be presenting again as Roberta and in anticipation of Adele raising the subject of William being a shareholder in the Club and a friend of Arthurs grandfather.
When Arthur arrived he took the chance of kissing Roberts hand and telling him how beautiful he looked. Aunt Roberta smiled and it brought back wonderful memories of her time with William Hudson.
They chatted socially for a few minutes with Aunt Roberta interested in what they’d done in the afternoon and they mentioned only lunch at the Club and a walk in the Park followed by some shopping. It wasn’t easy to have gentle and polite conversation with Aunt Roberta but she was definitely more sociable and Adele was very charming and was fully accepted as Mr Arthur. Aunt Roberta discussed a little about Arthurs business and his opinions about property prices and the rapid expansion taking place in London. Robert felt a little excluded but Adele took care to seek his input or comments. He did his best but had little experience or knowledge on the subject. Aunt Roberta was warming to Arthur as she had done with Robert when presenting as her niece.
Dinner was served at a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunity for conversation and enjoying the fine French wine from Aunt Roberta’s cellar. It was a nice opportunity for her to share a bottle and pass on her expertise gained over many years of wine tasting to her two young guests. As her tongue loosened they established that she’d holidayed in Paris on several occasions with William and that they’d established a wine import company together that had been very profitable.
Part way through the second course of dinner that was a delicious plate of game pie and potatoes with fresh vegetables from the garden Arthur mentioned again about being a direct descendant of Judge Fleming and Aunt Roberta again mentioned that he had a granddaughter but she had no recollection of a grandson. Arthur tried to explain that he a cousin Adele who he understood had not survived a fever whilst quite young and he had been born shortly afterwards. Roberta looked on with a wry smile on her face but said nothing.
The game pie was a little too rich for Robert that showed on his face but he tried his best out of politeness. He focused on the fresh vegetables pushing the pie to the side of the plate. Arthur was very hungry and had no problem clearing the plate. Aunt Roberta watched on noting the difference in build between the two of them and fully understood that her niece was not used to rich food having been raised by her brother and his wife.
She observed Arthur openly and concluded that he seemed to have good pedigree coming from Upper Class society in Bristol. She knew that she had work to do with her niece if she was to be acceptable for marriage and she was at an age where she needed guidance and tutoring. She lacked a good education but she was bright and was already the image of herself at the same age. She would write to her brother offering to extend her stay to 6 months so she could be exposed to a better class of people using her contacts and her network of friends. She could not bare that Roberta suffer the same rejection from an Upper Class family that she had encountered those many years ago. Perhaps Arthur was to be her preferred option but there were many candidates in London with good prospects if that failed.
Adele realised that she was being assessed as Arthur by Aunt Roberta and felt that if she could pass this test then she needed not fear anybody. She smiled at Robert who had slipped so easily into the role of niece and was looking more feminine by the hour. She hoped to escort her to a London Theatre in the morrow and to let him enjoy the benefits of being a beautiful woman amongst some of London’s finest ladies to see if this was something he wanted to pursue.
Eventually the opportunity that Adele had been waiting for arose. She didn’t hesitate and took the chance noting the look of fear on Roberts face. She told Aunt Roberta that she’d had a meeting with the General Manager of the Gentleman’s Club in Oxford Street and that the original agreement of the key investors showed the name William James Hudson. Was this the suitor and close friend of Aunt Roberta in the portraits and pictures in the house who had deserted her to marry another in Bristol and if so was he a friend of Judge Fleming?
Aunt Roberta didn’t seem offended by Arthur’s directness and she smiled so was clear that they were one and the same person. Adele looked across at Robert who was ready to ask his own question whilst he had favour as Roberta. His question was straight to the point. ‘ What really happened to William Aunt Roberta?
Aunt Roberta looked down to her knees and then an expression of great sadness replaced the smile. ‘Aunt Roberta was he murdered because of his relationship with you?’
Chapter 14
This brought a very response from Aunt Roberta who explained that in her opinion William had been forced into a very unhappy marriage by his parents against his will. He had tried to protect his father’s business who was facing ruin because of his investment into the development of Bristol as the main shipping port in England. There were several competing factions at the time and the Hudson family sunk much of their accumulated wealth into creation of a port that was deep enough to accommodate large sailing ships and steam driven vessels.
Aunt Roberta explained that investors in the ports of Southampton and Liverpool tried to slow down the progress the Hudson family were making but William was unaware that his wife’s family were involved in the development of the Port of Liverpool. William had ignored the financial pressures and his success in business ventures in London and the respect he had gained enabled him to settle his father’s debts. He travelled regularly to London and he had several successful business ventures using Aunt Roberta as his partner.
Aunt Roberta then stated quite categorically that William’s life had been threatened and he was advised to leave his wealth in totality to his wife. But he had anticipated the threats and his investments in London, including his investment in the Gentleman’s club were to be left to Aunt Roberta and their daughter.
In unison Adele and Robert replied ‘What daughter?’’
Then it registered fully with both of them that the pictures of the couple with a young child they’d seen was indeed a family portrait. Why hadn’t Roberts father mentioned this daughter or the relationship between William and Aunt Roberta?
There was a period of quiet whilst plates were cleared from the table and the carafe of red wine was replaced with a bottle of imported Port. A taste that was welcomed by the gentry of London and particularly enjoyed by Aunt Roberta.
Robert looked at Adele and felt it was more appropriate he asked Aunt Roberta what she had meant. It seemed the shares in the Gentleman’s Club had passed legally to Aunt Roberta or been promised to their daughter.
‘Does this mean that I have a cousin Aunt Roberta. Did you give birth to a daughter?’
‘No you don’t have a cousin my dear. I lost my daughter a long time ago.’
‘But you and William had a child together didn’t you?’
Aunt Roberta waited until her glass of port was replenished before answering and Robert looked towards Adele for support. As Arthur she was ready to give support but as Adele she felt it better that Robert exploit his growing relationship between Aunt and niece.
Adele then feigned the role of bored male by treating the discussion as if it was women’s talk with no relevance to Arthur’s objective to seek confirmation of the shareholding in his Grandfathers Club. A club that had been under Judge Flemings direct control due to the confidence of fellow investors.
Robert approached Aunt Roberta and consoled her with a delicate feminine arm around her shoulder. For the first time it mattered not that this was a frail old woman just a dear Aunt who had lost her true love at a time when she had everything to live for.
‘But what of your daughter dear Aunt Roberta? Where is she now?’’
‘Her name was Elizabeth and she lived with me here in this house and was the most beautiful child who was the image of her father. He doted on her during his visits to London even though he had two children of his own with this woman he married in Bristol. Our love could not be broken.’
‘But there is no record of Elizabeth that I know of and as I said my father has never mentioned her.’
Aunt Roberta took Robert by the hand and looked into his eyes. ‘ No sweet Roberta after William was killed I feared the same would happen to me and especially to Elizabeth to remove all traces of Roberts indiscretions. The family knew William and I were in business together and they learned of the birth of Elizabeth after William was followed and because he made a will in London. He used the same lawyers who drew up the shareholders agreement for the Gentleman’s Club with shares passing to her or to be placed in trust until her 21st birthday.
‘So where is she since Arthur would surely like to meet her as a fellow shareholder.’
‘I moved Elizabeth out of London for her safety and placed her right under the family noses in Bristol where she was educated as best as is possible for a young woman in this unfair society in which we live. At the age of 18 she formed a relationship with a young man who was connected to the family where she lived. A sweet young man who fell in love with her. So much so that she too became pregnant so I brought her back to Tavistock Square.’
Adele intervened and asked what became of Elizabeth and the child.
‘She died in childbirth leaving a son who survived. The father wanted to take him back to Bristol but there was no way for him to protect this young child from this evil family and those who wanted Williams shares in our businesses and investments and also the shares in the Gentleman’s Club that Elizabeth was due to inherit had she reached the age of 21.‘
Adele spoke again ‘So where is this boy and who cared for him.’
Aunt Roberta looked at each of them in turn before answering ‘ I agreed it was better if he was moved quickly into the care of others who I could trust in case anything happened to me so to protect him as best I could from the clutches of these vultures.’
Robert was unable to ask the question that Adele asked next as her own female compassion from her male persona. ‘But you lost a daughter and your one true love. Surely to lose a grandson was a mistake.’
‘It is easy to say young man but I made the right decision and William lives on and so does Elizabeth. I don’t have long on this earth but I’ve ensured Elizabeth’s child will be secure and happy as best I can. Better we leave this topic for now since a little bit of knowledge of this history could be a dangerous thing.’
The dinner was concluded and Arthur bade them goodnight to arrange his carriage after promising to call on Miss Roberta in the morning to her for a tour of the sights in London and a trip on the river. Adele winked as he kissed her hand suggesting she wore something suitable for the day requesting that she look beautiful.
The very thought of such a day with Adele brought a feeling of excitement as well as some apprehension to Robert but deep down he relished the opportunity being presented to him. He was so excited that he couldn’t resist enticing Adele to stop and kiss him on the lips rather than being satisfied with the kiss on the back of his hand.
Polly was waiting in his room as he arrived and everything was prepared for him to remove his dress and restraints that held his waist and lifted his bosoms that had caught the attention of Adele. They were happy to be free as he slipped between the sheets and he had fallen into a deep slumber within minutes. Polly hadn’t even finished tidying and she smiled as she closed the door behind her since this beautiful young woman was such a positive influence on her mistress.
When Polly returned the next morning Robert was still sound asleep and hadn’t disturbed the bed clothes. She touched Miss Roberta gently on the shoulder and her eyes fluttered open to search for some recognition of the surroundings and then she stretched before sitting up to accept a fresh cup of tea served in a China cup. Polly pulled her nightdress together at the front to cover Roberts freshly ripening breasts that were searching for the morning sunlight that filed the room. His nipples were firm and erect but no longer sore thanks to the creams that Polly had provided the first afternoon. He caressed them between his index and middle fingers as Polly busied herself preparing a bowl of warm water and fresh towels.
They discussed Robert’s planned itinerary for the day so that Polly could offer suitable dress options that would be comfortable yet elegant and warm enough in case of a cool wind. Robert selected a bright blue off the shoulder dress with a tight waist since he felt it appropriate to show some cleavage to ensure any gentlemen with inquisitive glances were left in no doubt about his gender. Polly produced a matching cape to wear whilst on the river even though it was already a warm day. She then styled Roberts hair with ringlets and a bun to ensure it was tidy through the day.
At breakfast Aunt Roberta greeted him with a smile commenting that she was impressed with her nieces choice and recollecting how much William had liked this dress that was still in perfect condition.
Robert sat down with as much grace as he could muster in the dress that he arranged to spread evenly and it required him to sit forward on the chair that Polly’s daughter presented to him. He was becoming very comfortable in the life of an Upper Class young woman with servants at his beck and call but at the same time he acknowledged their support and was happy to chat with them. They enjoyed freshly cooked eggs with ham and freshly baked bread.
Roberta was in total presence by now and she thanked her Aunt for her kindness in welcoming Arthur to dinner and for her complements to him which brought another smile to her face. Aunt Roberta asked if Miss Roberta was smitten by this charming young man and if he was polite and courteous to her. Roberta blushed and nodded saying that they were really good friends and enjoyed being in each other’s company. She told her that Mr Arthur was trying to deal with some significant financial pressures and that he visited London regularly to deal with banks and shareholders of the Club trying to force him to give up his equity that would mean he lost his Grandfathers prize asset in an attempt to save the family business. The aggressors were virtually blackmailing Arthur and Roberta felt that he’d even been threatened with his life.
Aunt Roberta said that Miss Roberta should invite Arthur to dinner again since she wanted to understand his intentions with Roberta and if she felt comfortable then she would offer some information that might bring about a solution but it was not without risk.
Robert puzzled at the possible meaning behind Aunt Roberta’s comments but he was excite and could hardly wait for Adele to arrive. She was punctual as ever and dressed in a freshly tailored suit and boots greeting Robert with a bow and kissing his hand. ‘Beautiful Miss Roberta come with me please. Your carriage awaits.’
Chapter 15
Robert was nervous to leave the house in female garb that was sensed by Adele who took his arm to steady him. He stopped on the pavement nervously looking both ways for passers- by then across the Square but it seemed that nobody was taking notice. London was a busy city compared with his home town of Bristol that was much to his relief.
Adele gave words of re-assurance commenting that she too had been nervous on her first excursion as Arthur but now she relished the freedom it presented. This was exciting for Adele since she wanted Robert to understand the limitations of being out in public as a woman but at the same time the joys of being admired and treated courteously.
Adele ensured that Roberts legs were covered with the thick woollen blanket provided and gave their first destination to the cab driver who gently coaxed the chestnut mare into movement. As the cab pulled away Robert looked at the splendid row of houses on their side of the Square bathed in early summer sunshine. It was like paradise to him and he hoped this would be the first of many visits.
Adele had decided their first destination should be to the Law Firm in Chancery Lane who had handled the original agreement between her grandfather Judge Fleming and the other investors in the Club whilst everything was fresh in her mind. Robert agreed since he was interested to have his Aunts information confirmed that she’d disclosed over dinner. Both were excited that there was a connection between their families even if William and Aunt Roberta had never actually married.
Upon arrival Adele jumped down from the cab relishing the freedom of her male persona. She turned and helped Robert step down safely in his skirts placing her hands around his trim corseted waist to avoid the risk of him falling. He felt it would have been nigh impossible without Adele’s assistance and her experience was invaluable. There had been an early morning shower and the paving slabs were still wet so he lifted his skirts as he approached the 4 steps to the front door of Foster & Walkers Solicitors a prominent practice in London. He was keen to avoid them being dirtied since they were borrowed and not his. He supposed it would be very difficult for Polly to clean them.
Once on the first step he held onto the iron hand rail whilst Adele past him and opened the large heavy door. At either side of the door were large shiny brass plates with the name of the practice and a huge doorbell that looked well used. They had no appointment but that was dealt with efficiently by Adele on entry using her grand-fathers name by way of introduction. She had brought papers with her in the name of Arthur Fleming that her grandfather had arranged and she asked to meet one of the partners if possible. Mr Walker was at his desk in his office so he accepted the appointment.
Robert was nervous about joining the meeting and sensitive to his appearance outside his Aunts home who could only see him as Roberta however he was dressed. He was not showing any glimpse of breast either that he felt would have averted Mr Walkers eyes and he felt he was being undressed by his gaze. Adele touched his knee to calm him and explained who they were referring to Robert as Roberta Deane the grand-daughter of his Aunt who Mr Walker knew very well. He also had known and respected Judge Fleming and he passed his complements to both of his guests for their appearance and good manners.
Adele took the lead in the conversation as Mr Arthur Fleming and Roberta confirmed her agreement when he turned to her for support from time to time. Roberta ttok over from Robert and she did her best to sit upright on her seat with her hands clasped together on her lap trying avoiding eye contact as much as possible. She was nervous and her stomach was churning even though she had eaten breakfast with Aunt Roberta. She felt a little awkward and her nervousness resulted in a feeling that she needed to relieve herself. The pain made her clench her teeth and she tried to focus on the discussion between Adele and Mr Walker. It seemed very amicable and she didn’t like to interrupt. It was difficult to hold on but somehow she managed even if it did affect her concentration and she missed some of the discussion.
Mr Walker focused on his discussion with Adele who was of the opinion that he was a typical solicitor of higher class society and he was quick to inform her that he was in fact a main Court Barrister who represented his clients regularly in The Old Bailey. He explained that the original agreement had been drafted by his minnows in the offices behind him but he had been involved in the ceremony of signatures since he was a close friend of Judge Fleming.
Arthur took the risk of outlining his problems with shareholders and banks trying to take control of the Gentleman’s Club that had been offered as security by his father, who he referred to as his uncle. Some key clients had declined to pay outstanding debts putting pressure on the Company and the main bank who provided overdraft facilities applied added pressure. Arthur was convinced these people were working together to take control of the Company using some tame suppliers to take legal action.
Arthur was concerned about the threats that had affected his uncles health and the valuation of the shares in the Club were a pittance compared with the true value. There was no way that Arthur was going to allow these crooks to steal his family crown jewel.
Mr Walker sighed and sat back in his chair and was deep in thought for a few moments. He was quick to offer advice and turned to Roberta to ask about her Aunts willingness to assist since she was the second largest shareholder. Roberta had no firm answer and had only just found out that in fact her Aunt had a business partnership with William Hudson and they’d had a child together.
Mr Walker then disclosed that William Hudson had made a will and declared that the shares passed to the child when she reached the age of 21 or married whichever was the earlier event. Adele and Robert looked at each other with expressions of disappointment since Aunt Roberta had told them that her daughter had died in childbirth and the father had also died whilst overseas. They were not married and neither Adele or Robert had any knowledge of what had happened to the child or what effect this had on the shareholding in the Club.
It appeared that Mr Walker knew more than he was prepared to pass on to either of them that was confirmed as the meeting drew to a close when he informed them that they would have to return with Aunt Roberta and he would then provide more information. Mr Walker then closed the meeting since he was due in court that afternoon and he needed time to prepare
Adele and Robert left the office and Robert aske to use the toilet whilst Adele thanked Mr Walker for his helpfulness and advice. She realised she needed help from Aunt Roberta and Robert as her niece Roberta was the best chance of finding a way to persuade her.
Robert found himself for the first time in a Ladies toilet and was faced with the difficulty of lifting her dress and undergarments that was not something to be hurried. It must have taken at least 15 minutes to carry out what would be a few minutes were he in normal attire for a young man. There was one advantage however since Adele had chance to call their cab from its parkin place so it was outside the front door as they left the premises.
Adele decided that they should head for Covent Garden to sit a while and take a light lunch whilst they reflected on what they’d been told. They found a good position where they could watch passers-by and listen to street music soaking up the atmosphere of one of London’s popular haunts.
After lunch Adele advised that they would take a trip on the river down to the Tower of London where their cab would be waiting. Robert was excited to get the chance to see this famous landmark and then return to Covent Garden where Adele had arranged tickets to a theatre in Drury Lane. This was to be Roberts chance to mingle with the best ladies in London and Adele was confident that this would be an unforgettable experience to stay in their memories.
Chapter 16
Over their lunch Adele and Robert discussed the information provided by the solicitor, Mr Walker. Robert had not been fully focused because of his discomfort and nervousness feeling he was being closely scrutinised but Adele reassured him that this was a normal experience for women and especially since he was very pretty.
Robert blushed but at the same time he felt flattered. To him Adele made a far better man than he could hope to achieve as a woman especially since current fashion in the higher classes allowed men to be flamboyant like their womenfolk. Adele seemed to dress down to enhance her masculinity and Robert marvelled at the ease in which she seemed to switch gender.
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Eventually Adele explained that William Hudson had held a 20% stake in the Club but that they had been in suspension for a number of years under the stewardship of Foster & Walkers with Mr Walker nominated as their representative. He had attended Annual General meetings on behalf of William Hudson’s estate with the shares bequeathed to the daughter born to Aunt Roberta out of wedlock. Williams wife and family had contested the will and tried to claim ownership. Mr Walker had the Share Ownership Certificate in his safekeeping.
It was clear now to both Adele and Robert that the family had reacted badly when they found out about the illegitimate daughter and had tried to locate her using private investigators. It seemed that this added to the pressure on Aunt Roberta who was in control of Williams shares of the businesses that Mr Walker said would have passed to the daughter on reaching the age of 21 years.
Adele felt that Mr Walker knew more about what had happened to the child and he was not prepared to discuss further without Aunt Roberta’s blessing or in attendance.
Adele told Robert that her Grandfather had insisted that the shares had been passed to another party outside Williams and that he had agreed that they were held in suspension but she hadn’t realised they were under the control of a law firm. It didn’t seem of any consequence until her fathers business came under financial pressure. Now she needed help of either the law firm or Aunt Roberta.
Together they focused more on their findings than on the lunch and Robert was no longer conscious of his appearance although Adele noticed that his mannerisms were more feminine as each day passed. Together they confirmed that Mr Arthur (Adele in name) now controlled the majority stake and there were a number of shareholders who were regular visitors to the Club. Most members were honourable and wealthy men who had accepted young Mr Arthur other than the rude and obnoxious Tancred fellow and his close band of cronies whom Adele had suspected was behind the attempts to buy her shares cheaply. A fair value was more than enough to resolve all of her family financial pressures.
Adele explained that banks had applied pressure due to problems arising from several failed creditors. The banks had been patient but a number of debtors had made threats and had employed some dubious people to apply pressure. Her father had been forced to step down as Chairman due to ill health and Adele was in the chair trying to find solutions. She had not said anything to Robert thus far and Adele had done a good job to hide her concerns.
All that Robert could suggest was to involve Aunt Roberta and seek her guidance since she appeared very wealthy as Roberts father had advised. However she was a very private person who until Roberts arrival had seemed too old and frail to be very active in business or likely to offer to help. Adele made the point that it was Roberta not Robert who had lifted her spirits so he should carry on the masquerade. Robert didn’t disagree with the advice and smiled since he knew it had it’s advantages and recalled his siesta with Adele following their celebration in the private meeting room in the Gentleman’s Club.
Adele decided to pay the bill and recommended they took their trip on the river. She needed a toilet and headed inside whilst Robert waited in the sunshine watching passers-by. Two men seemed to have been hanging around but they disappeared from sight by the time Adele returned to their table. Robert explained and Adele looked around but either Robert was mistaken or whoever it was had decided to leave. They both felt they may be over sensitive so headed back to the waiting cab.
Soon they arrived at the Pier where a small steamboat was moored that was one of several that traversed the river or offered a sightseeing trip. Mostly they were working boats delivering loads to various piers that had been established at both sides of the river and Robert was amazed at how much activity there was up and down river from the pier. Several Watermen were assisting passengers to board the steamboat that was noisy with dark smoke billowing from the short funnel much like the chimneys in the area close to his home and his fathers business.
Several ladies were lifted and carried on board by the Watermen because of their difficulty maintaining their balance in flowing skirts as they tried to walk up the narrow boarding bridge. Robert froze in his tracks and grabbed Adele’s arm since he feared the same treatment. The Watermen were in a hurry and before he knew it he was whisked off his feet much to the mirth of Adele who followed. The Waterman was much taller and stronger than both of them and he set Robert down gently next to a seat which would provide a good view for the tour.
Adele gave the Waterman a tip and he thanked her by doffing his cap. He bowed to Roberta and jumped ashore to take charge of one of the tie ropes holding the steamboat steady. Adele smiled at Roberts embarrassment and remarked how helpless he’d looked in the Watermans arms just the same as the rest of the ladies on board. Adele admitted to being jealous of the mans strength that would have stood her in good stead for dealing with Tancred and his cronies were she to get the chance.
There was a cool breeze on the river and a member of the crew offered blankets to the ladies, Robert included that he took to avoid standing out. Adele stood with one leg on the seat and her arm resting on her knee staring into Roberts eyes. She whispered that she wished they were alone again in a comfy bed since she felt an urge to feel the warmth of his body and kiss his breasts. She almost fell over as the steamboat hit a wave from a passing ship and Robert burst into laughter spoiling the moment.
It was a great experience for Robert and something that Adele had enjoyed a few times in female garb so she knew how exciting it must be for a young man from Bristol to see this wonderful city from the river. It was not long before several ladies left their seats to move up the steamboat and Adele coaxed Robert to join them whilst she made small talk with 3 gentlemen. She smiled at her own confidence and ability to carry herself so well as a man even though she was a smaller frame than most. She felt that life seemed much easier for men and hoped Robert would agree with her based on this outing together today. At least Robert had Adele to support and guide him but often as a young woman she had been alone. Her father worried about her especially when she had taken charge of the business and was dealing exclusively with men some of whom were aggressive and angry trying to get paid.
By now Robert was feeling the effects of being corseted for a few hours and whilst the corset was very tight around his waist reducing it significantly the nett effect was that it seemed to greatly enhance the size of his breasts. Maybe he was imagining things but his nipples were very sensitive and to be much firmer and bigger. He took the opportunity to touch them when the other ladies were distracted watching a large sailing ship pass by and it made him shiver a little.
At least because of Polly’s advice on his outfit his chest was not bare today so his breasts were out of sight. If he’d be in his normal male garb like the day before he’d have bound them tightly with Polly’s help but today free of any restraint his breasts seemed to be alive and they seemed to move independently when he walked with small steps that Adele had recommended.
At the moment he was feeling very confused because whilst he was dressing to appease his Aunt Roberta he found himself getting more comfortable as time passed and Adele had not thought less of him and quite the contrary in fact. He didn’t feel as uncomfortable as he often felt when trying to meet his father’s expectations when taking charge of their staff in Bristol or in dealing with customers or suppliers. He seemed attractive enough as Roberta to anticipate being complemented and spoiled. He couldn’t understand why his personality was more like Aunt Roberta’s than that of his own mother or father for that matter.
The steamboat slowed right down and several Waterboys jumped ashore to fasten the boat securely before allowing passengers to disembark. More passengers were already queuing to board and Robert found himself separated from Adele. He searched for her without success and then an elderly gentleman approached him offering to be of assistance to help ‘her’ ashore. Robert had no choice but to accept the offer and fortunately the man was courteous and offered to wait with her until her husband arrived. Robert blushed and fortunately Adele appeared before she could respond.
Adele thanked the gentleman and apologised for allowing herself to be pushed to one side as the ladies were guided forward to disembark first. Still she never lost sight of Robert and was quick to move through the crowd one on dry land.
The cab was waiting as arranged and Adele helped Robert to board before she joined him. They had plenty of time before their evening event at Drury Lane so Adele made some suggestions. In the end Robert persuaded her to drop him at Aunt Roberta’s where they could have some tea and he could freshen up and change his outfit.
‘What change into male clothes. Please we agreed.’
‘No I find this outfit is too tight around the midriff and I can hardly breathe so I want to see what other options might be available.’
‘OK that’s a relief but don’t dally please since we could ask Aunt Polly if she is prepared to attend a meeting with us with Mr Walker.’
They were back at Aunt Roberta’s by 4 pm and the clock in the square was chiming as they entered the front door. Aunt Roberta was still in the drawing room and she was delighted to see them return and she quickly organised fresh tea.
Chapter 17
Aunt Roberta seemed to be in a good mood and perhaps having guests was what she had needed to reinvigorate her and bring back her energy and more youthful appearance.
Robert was noticing the changes even in the short time he’d been her guest and he wondered what might have caused the rift between her and his mother and father. If indeed there was a rift because nothing had ever been mentioned to him. Neither was there any mention about having an Aunt in London until recently on his twentieth birthday. His father first told him that he had a sister who was wealthy so they were living in different circles.
He never told Robert that she lived in a large house in a prestigious location or that she was a successful business woman that was rare indeed in a world of men. Even more surprising was the connection with Adele’s family through her relationship with William Hudson who was a friend of Judge Fleming and invested with him from time to time.
It didn’t take long for the subject of the visit to Foster & Walker Solicitors to be admitted by Adele since Aunt Roberta was not really interested in the sight-seeing activities they’d enjoyed. They were old hat to her. Adele gave her best summary of the discussions that had taken place and what they’d managed to establish. Then she asked Aunt Roberta directly if she had inherited William Hudsons shares or if she knew the status because Mr Walker had decided this was confidential information.
Aunt Roberta went quiet and looked to Robert long and hard before saying anything.
‘Yes it’s time to sort out a few things and I’m sorry to hear you are having problems with some shareholders of the Club. William was a close friend of your Grandfather who helped him when he was establishing our first business. Mr Walker will explain what we had to do if I am present. Just fix a time and 11 am tomorrow is fine for me.’
The smile on Adeles face said it all and she jumped up to shake Aunt Roberta by the hand. Robert was delighted to see Adele accepted and reached out and touched her hand as a gesture of fondness and pride. She made a better man than him but he loved her for all that.
Once this was confirmed Adele decided to take the cab back to Foster & Walkers to fix the meeting whilst Robert freshened up and sought Polly’s advice for a dress that was suitable for an evening at the Theatre Royal. Most of all he needed to adjust the tight corset and apply some lotion to his nipples to reduce the soreness and protrusion. Polly had stopped him from wearing binding to avoid damage or bruising but he needed advice on any other options he had. Polly was well endowed and must have first-hand experience.
Polly insisted that Robert strip to the waist to soothe her skin with warm damp towels before focusing on her breasts and taking special care around the areola and nipples. Robert had winced when Polly first touched them and she had noticed that the nipples easily became erect. Robert was a little embarrassed even though Polly had seen him semi-nude more than once. He was more embarrassed by the speed at which his nipples responded to a light touch. Polly left his bed chamber that gave him chance to recover and examine them himself. Polly brought some soothing oils and a soft cloth and together they massaged the oils into Roberts breasts. It brought relief.
Once his breasts were soothed sufficiently Robert was able to replace his undergarments and Polly produced a choice of dresses that she’d seen her mistress wear at dinner parties and other social events. Together they selected a bright red dress that fitted as if it had been made for Robert. It was a little tight around the waist so Robert accepted that his corset be tightened again and he would suffer the pain. After half an hour Robert was ready to present to Aunt Roberta at her request and for her it was like looking in a mirror that could turn back the clock 50 years. She stood up and viewed Robert from all angles making small adjustments as she circled him.
Robert knew then that his Aunt accepted him completely as Roberta and the criticism she’d made on his arrival no longer applied. He liked the complements and he wondered at his own image in the glass hanging at the side of the fireplace. He was sure that Adele would approve Polly’s choice and her efforts. When Adele arrived back at the house she was speechless and she wasn’t sure whether this was because of the amazing transition of Robert to a beautiful woman or total envy. She confirmed the meeting arrangements for the following day.
Adele took the opportunity to freshen her face and tidy herself as best she could. She wished she’d had time to return to her apartments to change but they needed to arrive early to the theatre since she had arranged the tickets through the concierge at the Club. They were in a box that they were to share with 2 other couples that would provide a perfect view of the stage. Adele commented that this position might not have been wise since Roberta was sure to distract the audience and even the cast.
On arrival at the theatre they headed to the first floor bar for pre-performance drinks where Adele found the other guests. He recognised the men from the Club both of whom were members but nor shareholders. The ladies were seated and were chatting whilst the men stood and enjoyed wine and an attendant produced another chair for Robert whilst Adele shook hands with the men.
Robert felt awkward to be seated with the women but relaxed a little when they complemented him on his beautiful dress. They clearly accepted him as one of the higher class and introduced themselves as two sisters, Emma and Clara, who had busy social lives visiting theatres regularly. Their husbands introduced themselves to Adele as George Wainwright and Joseph Meredith with George having married Emma the elder sister. George and Joseph were in banking and had independent business interests in partnership that involved investment. Adele found it interesting to listen to them discussing how they’d dealt with their wealthy clients who were seeking opportunities to purchase companies in distress who had land and assets. They spoke quite freely that surprised Adele. She had encountered their like in Bristol and for all their charm and education they seemed to have no morals. She wasn’t impressed but noticed that Robert was comfortable in the presence of Emma and Clara although he hardly was able to get a word in. Both men had properties in London and they travelled frequently leaving their wives to entertain themselves for long periods.
Robert hardly needed to speak for the whole of the evening as the two sisters explained everything that was happening on stage since this was his first visit to live theatre and an Opera. The whole of the theatre was impressive and looked wonderful in gas light and Robert felt the audience consisted almost entirely of the higher class and couldn’t imagine middle and lower classes being accepted or interested. The lead singers were spectacular and according to the programme had performed all around Europe. This was a far cry from his normal social circles in Bristol and he marvelled at Adele’s growth in confidence since their first meeting.
The whole evening flew by and the audience stood and applauded at the final curtain Adele advised Robert that they’d been invited for a light supper at a small restaurant where some of the cast might call and provide solo performances. Whilst Robert tried to offer an excuse Adele cut him short and accepted out of politeness. It was just a short walk from the theatre close to the stage door entrance and Adele smiled as the three women walked and chatted. Robert seemed to adapt to his female role with ease and he played the part very well. Adele was pleased that her idea had been successful and was keen to hear Roberts opinion of his experiences on the other side of life that would stand him in good stead for enhancing his relationship with Aunt Roberta.
Half way through the supper two of the cast arrived and the restaurant went quiet as they cleared a small area and they then proceeded to sing a selection of songs from the show that brought the whole restaurant to a standstill. Even the waiters stood still and watched. The sound effect of the small restaurant was amazing and Adele reached to place her hand on Roberts knee to demonstrate her affection. She was transfixed and the sound of the tenor brought a shiver to Roberts back. It was an unexpected and much appreciated end to the evening after which Adele excused her and Robert to join the cab that was still waiting outside.
As they travelled back to Tavistock Square Robert said how much he’d enjoyed the day and his first visit to the theatre. Adele was equally happy with their day together and also the progress they’d made through the help of Mr Walker, the barrister friend of her late grandfather.
Adele ensured that the shawl that Robert was wearing around his shoulders was keeping out the evening chill and took the opportunity to kiss him lightly on the cheek. He reacted by turning his head to face her. They looked into each-others’ eyes and Robert whispered thank you tempting Adele to kiss him gently on the lips and Robert responded. He placed his hands at the back of her head to draw in Adele as much as was possible as the cab moved through the cobbled streets. Adele now knew this wasn’t just a polite thank you it was deep felt demonstration of affection.
When their lips parted Robert said that the sisters had invited him to afternoon tea the next day but he was reluctant to accept. It was an open invitation in case he changed his mind and they provided an address and a time. It suited Adele since she wanted to be at the Gentleman’s Club in the afternoon to meet the General Manager again once they’d had their meeting with the Barrister and Robert would not be able to accompany her whilst Robert was in his female persona.
When they arrived back at Tavistock Square it was quite late but there was light in the window and Polly was awaiting Roberts return to help him remove his dress and undergarments and prepare for bed. Adele jumped down and rang the bell as quietly as possible so not to disturb Aunt Roberta and Polly was quick to let them in. After a quick kiss on the lips Adele left to regrettably return to her cold bed in her apartments although she longed for the opportunity to share it with Robert that was for another day.
Polly noticed the long look between the pair of them and the affectionate kiss and was as discreet as possible as they chatted about the visit to the theatre and the friends they’d made but more-so the discussion focused on the supper and the visit of the two opera singers who were amazing. It took about an hour for Robert to prepare for bed with Pollys assistance and he welcomed another application of oils to his breasts. They became firm and erect as Polly applied the oils that made them both smile. Once under the sheets he had the same sensation when he recalled the passion in Adele’s lips on the journey home.
The following morning Polly was up early to prepare Roberts bath and after his toilet he dropped his towel and stepped into the warm water to soak and relax with Polly using soft cloths to wipe his upper torso. Robert managed to cover his nether region with another cloth as Polly washed away the soap suds. She passed him fresh towels and a gown whilst she cleared the water and cloths away that gave Robert chance to step into fresh undergarments. Polly helped him into his corset commenting on his firm and pert bust with some envy since she had always been heavily laden since her early teen years.
At breakfast Aunt Roberta wanted to hear about the theatre visit and the ladies her niece had met. They then prepared themselves for the arrival of Adele who would be in good time to make their 11am appointment with Mr Walker. Indeed Adele arrived ahead of schedule to allow for the unreadiness of Robert due to his inexperience in dressing in female garb.
Chapter 18
Adele was made welcome and shown to the morning room that pleased her. It gave her the opportunity to more closely scrutinise the array of portraits and paintings around the room and she focused on the two that included William, Aunt Roberta and the infant that she observed was dressed as any male or female infant was at that time. Polly entered to ask if she would like a refreshing drink whilst Aunt Roberta and her niece were making ready for the outing.
When she arrived back with some pear juice Adele took the opportunity to ask about the infant and since Adele had been accepted as a respected guest Polly answered explaining that according to her mistress this was the baby Elizabeth Deane and this was a pre-wedding portrait and William had returned to London for the wedding. But regrettably the wedding never took place after William had an encounter in London that necessitated his urgent return home. Seemingly William was placed in a very awkward situation but all this was before Polly’s time and she’d had to behave discreetly ever since her appointment and was well rewarded for it.
Adele was still interested in finding out about the child and asked why she was not carrying the fathers name because the birth would have had to be registered because of new laws. Adele commented that the certificate of birth might not carry the name of William Hudson because they weren’t married and she concluded that the child had no legal connection to William that she had hoped.
Polly could only suggest that Mr Arthur ask Miss Roberta if she wished to know more about the family and recommended he didn’t enquire directly with her mistress. Adele knew that was a waste of time but hoped that the scheduled meeting with Mr Walker would shine some light or create an opportunity to enquire without causing embarrassment. Robert in his role as Miss Roberta was key to open the heart of Aunt Roberta.
By the time Adele had finished her pear juice she was blessed with the appearance of Miss Roberta and immediately commented on her radiance and beauty that brought colour to Roberts cheeks. Adele kissed her hand and bowed as a gentleman may do then lightly kissed his cheek and complemented him on the sweet fragrance surrounding him. Aunt Roberta entered the room in time to see the two together and smiled in admiration. It took her back to her days spent with William and the love that quickly developed.
Adele stepped back and greeted her in the same manner as she had just done with Robert but with only a very light kiss on the cheek. She stood back a pace and commented on Aunt Roberta’s splendid outfit and whilst nowhere near as beautiful as Robert she clearly was looking better and more alive by the day. The wrinkled leather like skin was looking softer and lighter in colour. Perhaps she had some potion but Adele felt she had a new lease of life.
With everybody ready Adele then escorted them with arms locked in hers outside to the waiting cab and helped them both climb to their seats and spread their flowing skirts. She could see that Robert had not changed his mind and that he’d decided to take afternoon tea with his new friends and she was a little apprehensive because they’d see Robert in bright daylight rather than gaslight and no doubt they’d be searching for any flaws since Robert was at least 10 years younger than them and had not had the pain or after effects of childbirth. His choice of dress that was too elegant just to have been selected for a meeting with a sombre barrister like Mr Walker.
Robert saw the look on Adele’s face and commented before the question was asked, ‘Of course my dear Arthur, Aunt Roberta and I know we are not be welcome at your Gentleman’s club so what else must a woman do but make her own plans.’
Aunt Roberta was clearly enjoying her trip out in the cab as she pointed out landmarks on the journey to Foster & Walkers and it seemed to have been quite a while since she’d ventured far from Tavistock Square. She seemed to know London very well pointing out that the cab driver could have taken another more direct route.
When they arrived at their destination the cab driver jumped down to hold the horse steady to prevent movement of the cab because of Aunt Roberta’s frailty. Adele helped Robert who by now had mastered the art of finding safe footing in a long flowing dress ensuring he could see a foot peeping out before placing it firmly on the step. Then Adele attended to Aunt Roberta almost resorting to lifting her but of course she would have none of it and she gave Adele a look that made it very clear that she hadn’t lost her independence.
Once inside Mr Walker came out of his office immediately to greet his visitors and there was clear respect and a special welcome for Aunt Roberta. Her face lit up and they were on first name terms with Mr Walker welcoming her back. It appeared that most recent meetings with Aunt Roberta had taken place at Tavistock Square. There was no need for introductions and as a matter of politeness Mr Foster also made an entrance to say hello to Aunt Roberta. There seemed to be a long association and Adele and Robert found out that the practice had represented Aunt Roberta for many years and also William Hudson. The practice was started by their fathers and it appeared that Aunt Roberta and William Hudson became one of their main clients.
They settled around a conference table in the main meeting room and Mr Walker summarised what had been discussed in the meeting he’d had with Mr Arthur and Miss Roberta using some notes that he’d prepared. They were accurate so Mr Walker suggest that Adele repeat the questions that she’d tried to ask that he had declined to answer without permission of Miss Roberta Senior.
Adele cut straight to the chase and advised that she’d asked about William Hudsons shareholding in the Club and who had inherited them after his death. She understood that the shareholding was in suspension and that Fosters & Walker had the responsibility of representing the party who would inherit the shares. She believed that to be Elizabeth Deane the infant born to Aunt Roberta but Elizabeth had died before she reached the age of 21.
Aunt Roberta reflected on the question and then turned to Mr Walker and nodded to indicate her approval to answer the question. Mr Walker opened a file and flicked through the documents before settling on what appeared to be a certificate of some kind.
Mr Walker proceeded to explain that the daughter Elizabeth Deane was named in the will and that he had the share certificate pending her reaching the age of 21. The family of William Hudson had contested the will through the court after his death since there was no evidence that William was the father. In law he was classed as a putative father and he was not named on the birth certificate. So they claimed the wife of William should inherit everything including his business interests.
Judge Fleming had presided over the hearing and threw out the claim but then the family accused Judge Fleming of bias because he had association with William. On top of that the family had hired some dubious private investigators and thugs to threaten Aunt Roberta and harm her young daughter. This carried on for some time with several failed attempts on their lives. The child Elizabeth was moved to a safe house in the care of a relative of Aunt Roberta who raised her like a daughter.
Adele and Robert looked at each other in disbelief since Robert wasn’t aware of any other family members save his father so he turned to Aunt Roberta and asked for her confirmation and tears were rolling down her cheeks. She took Roberts hand and with a bowed head she confirmed that she had but one brother Edward who lived in Bristol.
‘But Edward Deane is my father.’
‘ My dear Roberta, Edward is not your father he is your great uncle and I am your grandmother. My daughter Elizabeth moved to his home away from London for safety and little did Roberts family know she was right under their noses.’
Robert looked at her with sadness and took her hands in his ‘But why did you allow Elizabeth to leave you.’’
‘For her safety and so she could spend time with William who she loved dearly. He managed to keep this secret from his family but Edward didn’t like the way I gave up my daughter so easily but she was safer with him. Especially so when William died. I know it wasn’t an accident he was murdered. ’
‘But Aunt Roberta ithat is so tragic. How did these people get away with it? They must have really hated you.’
‘Yes they did because William would not give me up and they found out we set up businesses together and purchase my house in Tavistock Square.’
Robert asked ‘Is that why you and my father argued and didn’t meet each other and why he never acknowledged that I had an Aunt in London.’
‘Yes he was ashamed of me especially when I gave up Elizabeth but he never understood the threats against me nor the jealousy of the woman William married. Later it became even worse because I blamed him for not taking care of Elizabeth properly. He allowed her to have a relationship with a young seafarer that led to her becoming pregnant at a tender age. I never found out she was pregnant until I was informed that she had died in childbirth. I stopped my financial support to Edward.’
Adele interjected. ‘ So what you are saying is that Elizabeth was in the care of your brother and she became pregnant died so how about the child did it survive ?’
‘We kept Elizabeths death quiet and the birth was not officially registered in the required timescale through Edwards incompetence.’
Robert was almost speechless but eventually words came from his mouth. ‘ Aunt Roberta am I the child or am I the child of your brother?’
Chapter 19
Mr Walker stopped the discussion and pushed the document towards Robert and Adele to consider before highlighting its significance. It was a birth certificate issued 20 years ago but it was not issued at the same time as a second document that he also produced that was the death certificate for Elizabeth Deane.
He explained that the birth certificate was not mandatory at the time of the child’s birth but came into law shortly afterwards. Mostly it was the middle and high classes that ensured children were recorded and lower classes hardly bothered since many couldn’t read or write.
Adele jumped in first because Robert was too busy trying to absorb the information and she asked what had happened to Elizabeth’s body after she died. Mr Walker explained that Elizabeth’s body was brought back to Tavistock Square in London for burial in a graveyard at the church that was visible from Roberta Deane’s home. Miss Deane arranged for a private burial hoping that Elizabeth’s passing would bring some closure to the dispute with Williams family. She assumed the burial would be reported back by whoever it was that was spying on her for the family. Unfortunately it didn’t and in fact her persecution just escalated to a new level.
‘But the child?’
Mr Walker explained that with Miss Deane’s approval the child stayed with Edward Deane and his wife in Bristol and was raised as their own. Miss Roberta contributed to the costs of the child’s welfare and supported her brother in his attempts to set up a business on the basis that he agreed to treat the child as his own. However when Miss Deane checked a short time later she was informed by Edward that the birth of the child had not been registered by him and she was concerned. It was not in accordance with laws that had come into force in recent years and she felt it would cause problems for the child in later life.
Miss Roberta took immediate action herself as any mother would have done and instructed Foster & Walker to deal with the matter and register on behalf of the family. This was not unusual so documents were prepared by Mr Walker following a visit to Bristol where he met with the physician who had tried to save the life of Elizabeth.
The father was not traced so he was not named on the certificate that was accepted even though he had been named by Elizabeth when her pregnancy was confirmed. It seemed he had never returned to Bristol for reasons that were not clear and after a week of enquiries Mr Walker could not trace him. The birth was registered whilst he was in Bristol and Edward Deane and the physician were witnesses.
Mr Walker then re-iterated that Miss Roberta feared that the lack of a birth certificate could affect the inheritances that had been awarded to Elizabeth, by her father, on reaching the age of 21. She discussed this with Foster & Walker as well as considering the matter of her own last will and testament to consider that had been drafted and was held by them.
As for the shares in the Club, that concerned young Mr Arthur, this matter had been addressed at the time of the review of the will. Walker explained that Miss Roberta felt strongly that these should pass to the child on reaching the age of 21. In the meantime the share certificate was being held by Foster & Walker who maintained contact and attended meetings that had been established during Mr Arthurs meeting at the Club.
Miss Roberta had taken some time to recover from the loss of her daughter that brought back memories of her relationship with William Hudson and her belief that he was murdered. She was now worried for the future of the child since further attempts had been made to threaten her and there was still plenty of evidence that she was being closely watched. So she made it her priority to ensure the child was safe as it grew up.
Adele couldn’t contain herself any longer - ‘But the child? ’
Mr Walker paused looking for instruction from Aunt Roberta who gave a nod of approval to respond - ‘ the child was raised as the son of Edward Deane and his wife and as a family they continued to live in Bristol with support from Miss Deane as I have already explained.’
Robert was speechless because neither his mother or father, at least the two guardians who had supported him all his life, had never indicated he was anything other but their child.
It was then explained that Miss Roberta instructed Mr Walker to prepare a plan to protect the child that might mislead the family and their hired investigators and thugs that plan was agreed by Miss Deane and was immediately implemented.
By way of some justification Mr Walker explained that the grave of Elizabeth had been was desecrated as some form of threat against Roberta Deane and the headstone smashed so that it had to be replaced.
The plan that was agreed and implemented was to register the child as female to try to confuse the persecutors and the birth certificate was retained by Foster & Walker who then approached the Courts to seek permission to adjust the will of William Hudson claiming the Child was the only living descendant of Elizabeth Deane. The change in the will was done with Judge Flemings help and support because of his past friendship with William Hudson. Everything went through very smoothly.
So on the birth certificate the child was given the name Roberta Deane that was close enough to the child’s name that had been given to him by Edward Deane. Miss Deane then confirmed that she was present to sign the document that was also witnessed by the clerk of Foster & Walker. Miss Deane was confirmed as mother to Elizabeth and the only surviving blood relative and that as a business partner and the person who had shared her bed with William Hudson she was the best person to convey his wishes that he’d expressed on several occasions. Elizabeth Deane’s birth certificate carried the name William Hudson as father together with his profession. This was all on record with the Courts so Mr Walker was able to deal with the transfer of rights of Elizabeth Deane’s estate to her child, thereafter known as Roberta.
At the time there was no substantial estate involved and this had been decreed in public with fair notice so the actions were not contested by anybody.
Robert turned to Aunt Roberta and whispered ‘So you are not my Aunt or even Great Aunt you are my grandmother and your daughter Elizabeth was my birth mother. She died giving birth to me that is unforgiveable? ’ A rear ran down his cheek.
His question was answered firstly with a simple nod, a smile and a touch of his hand - ‘Yes you are my granddaughter Roberta but your mother died because of birth complications and I have no proof but I fear this was out of neglect on behalf of those in attendance or even planned. You were whisked away by my brother for safety that we should never forget. He will be forever in my thoughts despite our differences.’
Adele stepped in again in support of Robert- ‘ So Roberta is legally entitled to inherit all her mother’s estate that will include the shares in the Gentleman’s Club?’
Mr Walker quickly interjected to advise this was true but the matter of Elizabeth’s inheritance at the age of 21 had not in fact occurred. Since the rest of Elizabeth’s estate at the time of adjusting the will was negligible he did not anticipate any problems. The estate consisted of some personal items and private letters and a small amount of money in a safe box.’
Robert was trying to concentrate on what Mr Walker was saying but only the part about the private letters registered with him. He felt that might be the only link he had to his mother so he was immediately interested to have access to them. Mr Walker arranged for them to be collected from their safety deposit room.
Adele on the other hand persevered with her priority interest that she considered to be the most significant matter on hand - ‘But what about the shares in the Gentleman’s Club surely they had value so the estate wasn’t worthless?’
‘At the time there was no recorded valuation of the Gentleman’s Club and no necessity to recover William Hudson’s original investment or to sell his shareholding. Nobody came forward to object.’
‘But surely this action was dishonest?’
‘On what basis do you reach that conclusion young man. Miss Roberta was made pregnant by Mr William Hudson and their daughter was named as the beneficiary so with Miss Deane’s agreement and instructions she passed these directly to the registered daughter of Elizabeth Deane, Miss Roberta Deane the younger.’
Mr Walker confirmed that his firm had dealt with everything in accordance with the law and had been successful in having the will adjusted. So the shares were then placed in trust under the control of their client Miss Roberta Deane the elder, that would have been her daughter’s wish had she survived. Furthermore this was intended to stop any attempts by William Hudson’s family to claim ownership. They had done enough damage to the lives of Miss Deane and William in our opinion. So Mr Walker confirmed that Miss Roberta the elder remained as custodian until Miss Roberta the younger reached the age of 21.’
‘So in your opinion in three month from now on the occasion of Roberta’s birthday she will officially become a shareholder in the Club as am I?’
‘Yes but there is a clause that states that the transfer of shareholding is subject to Miss Deane being satisfied that Miss Roberta the younger is able to demonstrate her maturity as a young woman and ready to take on responsibilities assigned to her. It is also her intention to transfer some of the business interests that she had jointly owned with William Hudson that his family had also tried to access.’
Miss Deane did provide a little more for clarification stating that she was so far very happy with how Roberta had presented herself since arrival in Tavistock Square and she was impressed with her good manners that she felt was to the credit of her brother. She was also pleased that she had met such a polite young man who was the nephew of Judge Fleming who had been a true friend of William.
The clerk arrived with the private letters that were handed to Miss Deane since Robert had not reached the age of 21 and she scanned them quickly having seen them on a prior visit. Two letters were in her own handwriting that she recalled were to explain about her father who had disappeared suddenly from her life. There were others from her father written to Elizabeth that Miss Deane said were intended to explain why he had been unable to marry her before becoming her birth mother.
Adele was quick to speak again. ‘So does this mean that you will set certain criteria or tasks for Roberta enabling her to take control of the shares when she is 21.’
‘ My requirement is not severe it is simply that she stays with me in London from now until her 21st birthday, under my protection, to learn amongst other things how a respectable young woman is expected to behave. This provides me with an opportunity that I never had with my daughter Elizabeth and it is a small amount of time in Roberta’s life. I want her to forget the lower middle class lifestyle she was forced to endure with my brother who in the circumstances has done an amazing job. I want Roberta to settle into the middle and upper class society here in London and learn sufficient about the businesses that I still control as main shareholder. Of course Mr Arthur you may call upon her as you wish provided that you behave honourably and treat Roberta with respect.’
Adele nodded her agreement looking at Robert and they smiled at each other. Perhaps it was a little late for that.
At that the meeting had gone as far as intended so Mr Walker thanked the three of them for attending his office and agreed to provide some summary notes for their approval and his record. He recommended that they meet again in one week’s time after the three of them had chance to digest the information.
Mr Walker shook each of them by the hand to bid them farewell and Adele went outside and waved to the cab driver to collect them to return to Tavistock Square.
In the meantime Robert asked Aunt Roberta, who he was not ready to call Grandmother, that they go direct to the churchyard to visit Elizabeth’s grave. It brought a nod of approval from Aunt Roberta and Adele was happy to escort them. She was in high spirits after hearing the wonderful news and hugged Robert openly in full view of Aunt Roberta and several passers-by. She didn’t care who saw them she was so elated. Now she had a chance resolve her family business problems and enjoy regular company of his sweetheart Roberta.
They boarded the cab and it gently pulled away with the three of them in relaxed mood and reflecting on the information that had been provided. Robert now realised why his Aunt had been so critical of his appearance when he first arrived at Tavistock Square. She had only accepted him as Roberta rather than as his true male self.
On their arrival at the church Aunt Roberta respectfully led the way to Elizabeth’s grave along a pebbled path to a single grave in a secluded position in the shade of a large Oak that shaded most of the small graveyard. The headstone was prominent and in white marble imported from Italy. On it was engraved ‘the beautiful daughter of William Hudson and Roberta Deane. ’ No mention of the child for deliberate reason.
Aunt Roberta and Robert held each other and Adele stepped back to let them have some privacy and Miss Deane shed tears for the first time. Robert couldn’t hold back either since he realised how much he’d missed in his 20 years.
Chapter 20
After they’d paid their respects to Elizabeth with silent prayers Aunt Roberta and Robert walked arm in arm back to the Square and across to the front door of Aunt Roberta’s home with Adele escorting them as any well-mannered young man would look after two women sharing grief. They had agreed to have lunch together and whilst they had little appetite they decided to carry on and do their best.
Aunt Roberta went to her room to tidy herself since she was not used to displaying emotion so openly. It gave Adele and Robert chance to talk a little together in privacy. Adele was trying to hold back her elation at the disclosure from Mr Walker but she acknowledged that Robert was upset and still in shock. His life had taken a most enormous twist in the last few days.
Robert chose to sit alone in a chair rather than on the sofa where Adele would have sat beside him. He was trying to digest the news that he was the son of Elizabeth Deane since there was absolutely no evidence of her existence at his home in Bristol and neither of his parents had ever mentioned her existence. As far as he was concerned he wasn’t sure if he was dreaming and floating like a free spirit in no-mans land somewhere between being the son of Edward and Margaret Deane and the granddaughter of Roberta Deane with no place to land.
He had happy memories of Bristol in his youth but recalled that his father had told him they had moved home on two occasions at short notice in his formative years. They’d but stayed in the central Bristol area but whenever he asked about where he’d lived as an infant he was never shown. He was told that lots of families moved home as Bristol developed as a port and bridges were built over the river and lots of houses like their first house had been demolished. The second house was lost in a great fire in the City. The Deane family lost their rented home and all their possessions that included Roberts certificate of birth. There was some speculation that the fire was deliberate but no prosecutions.
Adele let Robert know that he could rely on her and she would not fail him. Aunt Roberta was giving him a tremendous opportunity and he would have security and a splendid home and she was sure that his adoptive parents would understand.
‘But what of them if she insists that I carry on this masquerade. I’m sure she intends this to be permanent and there will be more conditions attached at the time that I reach 21. She wants me to carry on for 3 months and then she will decide if I’m fit to inherit the shares in your Club. I’ll be trapped.’
‘Is that so bad? It means we can plan a future together. I can now fight off these villains who are trying to take my shares for a pittance and remove the threats from the banks who have us over a barrel. Won’t you please do this for me if for no other reason?’
Robert felt completely swamped by desire that seemed out of his control. He had his own satisfaction and temptation to go further in view of the joyous time he’d had these last few days as well as Adele’s encouragement and support but most of all the refusal of Aunt Roberta to recognise him as Robert Deane only as Roberta.
He realised that he didn’t have anything to complain about since this lifestyle was like a piece of heaven compared to his life in the busy City of Bristol. His life consisted of long working days for little reward working in ‘his father’s business’, that he was due to take over. Forty or Fifty years of purgatory like Edward his adoptive father.
Maybe life would be different since both he and Adele had seen changes since the City was a major port in England with a lot of import and export business flowing and intense competition. Regrettably this had attracted a lot of unsavoury characters as the population was increasing significantly. But there had been massive private investment at the same time from rich families in the area. Not all successful.
Whilst he’d hardly had chance to get to know Aunt Roberta if she could be trusted then she’d only be expecting him to live the life of a young socialite encouraging him to spend his time with middle and upper class folk. The only work required of him would be his introduction to the business that had been so successful for her and William Hudson, now understood to be his direct ancestors. But whilst he considered the disadvantages of being in London living the life of a woman would Adele be able to move there and would she be able to fend off these men who were threatening her to take the fruits of her family’s hard work and investments such as the Club in London?
Would she in fact carry on her masquerade as Arthur to maintain access to the Club and to maintain the confidence of Aunt Roberta in both of them. It was Roberts opinion that if she suspected that she’d been duped by Adele it might affect his own developing relationship and ultimately his inheritance.
He realised already that there would likely be no inheritance if he could not live and breathe for the next three months as Roberta to demonstrate he was capable of being the granddaughter Aunt Roberta wanted. He expected he would have to continue for a few years to come, at least in her lifetime.
He had no alternative and he ensured that Adele understood his decision. But he made very clear that she understood that this was a deal between the two of them and she had to support him as Arthur whilst in London at the very least. If they were to return to Bristol they could of course adopt their normal gender roles. He was missing the freedom of living as a man that Adele was relishing.
Aunt Roberta appeared and behind her Polly followed with a tray on which she had a heart shaped bottle of sherry and three glasses. The sherry and the glasses had been brought from Bristol by William Hudson as a gift to celebrate their commitment to each other for marriage. Aunt Roberta had kept it as a treasured possession and announced that it was time for her to break the seal and welcome home their lost grandchild and two lost loves of her life.
Adele stepped forward to assist and Robert moved to the sofa allowing Aunt Roberta to take his seat. With filled glasses Aunt Roberta proposed the toast for future happiness of Roberta and wishing her a long life. The sherry was quite potent but very pale and clear and they sipped together with Polly refreshing the glasses. Aunt Roberta asked about their plans for the rest of the day inviting Adele for dinner again at 7pm that she accepted.
Adele advised that she wished to go back to the Gentleman’s Club for another meeting and Robert said he would like to go with her. One look from Aunt Roberta indicated that she disapproved and she said women weren’t allowed in the club and there was no sign of anything changing in the future. Robert said he could go in male garb like he’d done before using the outfit he’d worn on arrival to Tavistock Square.
Aunt Roberta advised him that he shouldn’t wear such clothes and that she’d asked Polly to remove them from the house and give them away. Robert was shocked that showed but Adele understood immediately because it was apparent that the house was still under surveillance of unsavoury characters seen hanging around the Square. They were more likely to be looking for a male descendant of William Hudson than a female if they’d found any evidence of Elizabeth in Bristol.
Adele recommended that Robert keep his appointment for afternoon tea that would lead to nothing and to let these men follow her to the Club after she dropped Robert at the residence of George and Emma Wainwright and she would collect him 2 hours later. Aunt Roberta suggested that Robert might find more friends like Emma and Clara if she had an afternoon in their company that would please her considerably.
After a light lunch Aunt Roberta decided she would take a rest and Robert and Adele made ready to leave but not before they’d embraced for a few minutes that perhaps was a combination of the days events and the two glasses of sherry.
As the arrived at the address of the Wainwrights that was a large white terraced property Adele jumped from the cab and knocked on the door. Robert was expected as hoped so she helped him from the cab and he went inside to be greeted by Emma and Clara. Adele left for his appointment at the club and Robert found himself waving.
Inside he looked around the large hallway as a housekeeper took his shawl and was impressed by the décor. According to Emma it had been completed recently by a designer from Paris through a business contact of her husbands. The downstairs reception room was just as magnificent and as they entered Robert could hear the chatter of several voices and found that there were two other ladies present also invited for tea.
He felt uncomfortable as he stood there being closely examined by four pairs of eyes and was deeply concerned that these ladies would see through his disguise and see a man. He was wrong because they welcomed him and commented on his outfit with a certain degree of envy. It was clear that Aunt Roberta had good taste and an excellent seamstress. His corset was holding him tightly in place and his breasts were slightly prominent without being on display.
Tea was served and the five of them chatted with Robert slightly quieter than the other four who seemed to be capable of holding more than one conversation at once. Robert explained that he was visiting London for the first time and had been raised in Bristol that they detected anyway from his accent. He found himself pitching his voice higher than normal and even giggled with them as they chatted about their menfolk. He accepted further invites for the following week and realised it was expected he do the same but he needed approval from his Aunt first. All were keen to visit the house at Tavistock Square.
Adele met again with the General Manager at the Club who offered her a cigar. He declined saying he had a slight chest infection and preferred to take care. The meeting was useful since now Adele had identified that the shares held by Foster & Walker would be inherited by Robert in a few months time they would have enough votes to resist any pressures from smaller shareholders and the banks trying to force Adele to sell for next to nothing. She just needed some extra short term financial support and she wanted to know more about George Wainwright and Joseph Meredith who they’d met at the theatre and were members. Maybe they could help through their contacts but better still if eventually she could persuade Aunt Roberta to help.
It seemed like George Wainwright was well respected at the Club and Adele found him to be quite friendly. Hopefully Robert would be able to set up a lunch or dinner appointment for four of them to seek some advice.
Roberta was still involved in the conversations when Adele called to collect him and he’d gained in confidence even though there were many topics that he had no way of contributing. He was considerably younger than the four of them as well but if anything that helped because they could excuse his ignorance.
Adele had her own experience of afternoon tea parties that she never enjoyed and moreso now with the experience she’d had presenting as Arthur with the freedom it provided. She felt a little uncomfortable dressed as she was so she tried to hurry Robert along as best she could and fortunately he understood and responded.
Adele dropped Robert off at Tavistock Square before heading to her apartment to wash and change for dinner with Robert and Aunt Roberta. She wished they’d had time for him to relax with her in apartment since the pair of them were clearly very comfortable in each others company and it would be a chance to be intimate together.
She made it her plan to invite Robert the following day and she would ensure the Apartment was clean and tidy. She needed some assistance on that front because of the amount of time she spent out and about. Perhaps Polly might have a friend or family member looking for such an opportunity.
Chapter 21
Robert went to his room to undress and his priority was to take a bath and seek out something appropriate for dinner. Polly helped him to remove his corset and then focused on preparing his bath so it gave him chance to observe himself in the glass.
In such a short time he had found that the corset was comfortable and he could see the benefit as his waist seemed much trimmer and he saw more definition in his hips. He removed the upper layer of his undergarments to free his breasts and cupped them in his hands. They were almost the same size as Adele’s but them she wasn’t particularly large in that area like most women he’d met and certainly nowhere near the size of Polly and the sisters who he’d had tea with. Perhaps Polly could find something that showed a little more of his bust that might tease Adele and please his Aunt.
He used the screen in his bedroom to undress completely out of view of Polly incase she re-entered and stood fully naked. It was hard to see signs of Robert Deane from 2 years ago and since he arrived in London he was finding that living more as a woman seemed to be having an effect on him. He felt more vulnerable and his movements were less masculine. He sat on a stool and crossed his legs so there was no sign of any masculinity and there was a complete woman looking back at him. He thought how nice it would be to have his portrait painted sitting like this so he could look back with pride in later life. He vowed to take care of his diet to maintain his slim body as long as possible but he would take care not to allow himself to lok so old as Aunt Roberta later in life so he would seek advice if possible.
Polly’s head appeared around the screen that made him jump a little and he was glad he had his legs crossed. She passed him a robe to cover himself until he was able to lower himself into the bath and covered himself under the water with one of the soft flannels. Polly soaked his back and gently cleaned his breasts and under arm commenting on how soft his skin was. His nipples didn’t feel quite so sore today so perhaps the oils were having a good effect. Polly proceeded to untie his hair and let it hang loose over his shoulders. Then she poured water over it from a large jug and spent ten minutes or so washing it and rinsing it thoroughly. Robert didn’t want to leave the comfort of the bath but Polly had a few chores to do after she’d attended to him so she hurried him along.
She left him in peace for a few moments whilst he stepped out of the bath and covered himself with a large towel and then he sat in front of the fire she’d lit in his room to dry his hair whilst she brushed it through.
They chatted about the wardrobe of clothes at Roberts disposal and he asked if there was a dress available that might help him present a little of his breasts and tease Mr Arthur at the dinner table. Polly smiled in acknowledgement and disappeared to make a selection that gave Robert chance to put on the fresh undergarments she’d left on his bed. He felt safe again once covered but then was a little shocked to realise he’d been in full view through the window from the property behind them nd he was sure he’d seen movement in the bedroom window. That had been the second time he’d felt such intrusion from that house but luckily unless they had a ships spyglass they would not see much more than he could see. Even with a spyglass some breast at best. He would have to take more care and mention his concerns to Aunt Roberta.
Polly brought two options of dress from Aunt Roberta’s accumulated wardrobe. Robert marvelled at the volume and Polly mentioned that until a few years ago one of the businesses she’d established had been the import and export of fashion items and the distribution to larger cities in England that included Oxford, Cambridge, Stratford on Avon, York, Manchester and Bath all locations where Miss Roberta had spent time. There was no mention of Bristol but she wondered why she’d never visited her adoptive parents with Bath being so close to Bristol. Perhaps it was to do with William’s family who she’d explained were very prominent in the City. Robert had never heard of them but maybe Adele had.
Polly recommended the black dress that was decorated in the sleeves and had a matching silver shawl. It fitted perfectly thanks to an extra tug or too on the waist corset that had the effect of accentuating his breasts that were amazing and comparable to those that had been on display earlier that afternoon. Polly advised that Aunt Roberta had a good eye for fashion and had always insisted on keeping dresses that took her eye during her visits to fashion rooms. She still considered herself to be young and had to be ready to socialise but sometimes she told Polly she’d made a purchase for Elizabeth when she came home.
Robert felt a shiver down his spine but was gaining more intimate knowledge of his newly found grandmother who perhaps was not the semi senile lady he’d assumed her to be on arrival.
Robert sat brushing his hair whilst Polly laid out the dress on the bed and returned the other two options to the wardrobe from whence they came. It was in fact a bedroom that was set up like a milliner’s or small fashion house with each item covered to protect them from dust and damage. Robert aimed to make visit with Polly in the next few days to take a closer look.
Robert’s hair was long enough to be spread across his shoulders until it was completely dry and then Polly arranged it neatly and tied it with a black ribbon. He was once again lost in a trance gazing at the image in the glass as Polly helped him to slip on a pair of soft silk shoes with a small heel. He twirled around to see the full effect and Polly clapped her hands to let him know he was ready for dinner. He hoped that Adele wouldn’t think less of him for selecting a more feminine style for the evening with a glimpse of his blossoming soft breasts on display. It seemed an age since he’d first wooed her rather than the reverse.
He decided to go downstairs to the reception room to await Adele rather than make an entrance afterwards and he settled on the window seat to look out into the Square watching people taking early evening strolls. He could see the entrance to the churchyard where his young mother had been laid to rest who was no older than him when she died. He wished he’d known her or even heard stories of her and he searched the room looking for any evidence of her existence. Sadly there was none.
Then he saw Adeles cab pull up at the curb side and Adele jumped down and turned to give instructions to the cabman. She strode confidently to the front door to knock and suddenly two men appeared from nowhere and confronted her. Robert let out a cry and rushed to the front door to help calling for Polly as he ran as quickly as he could in the skirts.
Pollys husband was first to respond as he was close at hand in the dining room. He opened the front door to see Adele using her cane to protect herself. The two men immediately withdrew and ran off across the Square. Adele was in need of a glass of brandy that was quickly served by Polly as Robert clung to Adeles arm. They sat together on the sofa and Adele tried to make light of the confrontation.
In her opinion the two men were chancers looking to pick her pocket with one distracting her whilst the other did the deed. In truth she believed they had followed the cab and their purpose had been to threaten her ion behalf of those trying to force her to sell her shareholding in the Club. She said nothing of this to Robert and tried to change the subject by admiring his outfit with a clear indication that she admired his mounds.
Aunt Roberta appeared and had been told of the incident by Polly so she immediately expressed her concern and insisted Adele take another small brandy whilst they discussed what had happened. In truth Robert had more to offer about the incident than Adele who saw nothing. He explained they had appeared from behind the cab but he saw no sign of them trying to steal Adeles wallet. Aunt Roberta agreed with Adeles private thoughts that these men were hired scoundrels paid to scare Mr Arthur into submission.
After a short while they moved through to dinner that started with a short blessing by Aunt Roberta followed by a small welcome toast to her long lost granddaughter.
The conversation ebbed and flowed through dinner with Aunt Roberta in thoughtful mood.
As they took a glass of port at the end of the meal Aunt Roberta decided that she would like to make a proposition to the two of them.
She didn’t expect an immediate answer but she asked them both to consider it carefully and discuss it together in their own time. They both agreed to respect her wishes.
Robert asked for the proposition to be declared.
‘Arthur it is clear that you need some financial help to rid yourself of these scoundrels pursuing money and trying to force you into ruin. I’ve lived with threats and persecution for 50 years and have lost a good man and a daughter and I don’t intend to lose a granddaughter. I am wealthy and I may yet have a few years to live so I want to try to enjoy them. ‘
‘So what is your solution?’
‘I want to ensure that in 3 months from now time Roberta inherits what is hers and finds happiness that both her mother and I had taken from us.’
‘But how?’
‘I suggest that in the morrow you two take a trip to a jewellers with whom I have traded who will measure Roberta for an engagement ring. The name of the Company is Taylor & Whittaker and they will provide a first class service.’
‘ But Aunt Roberta I don’t wish to become engaged since I have no proposal from anyone and I have no desire to enter a marriage of convenience.’
‘My proposal is simple. You will be in London for 3 months and I will insist that Arthur visits you regularly and offers his hand in marriage when the ring is ready. On that basis I will settle with the banks who hold loan notes against Arthurs family business.’
‘And what then?’
‘When you marry each other this will be your dowry that is presented to Arthur who will be able to focus on recovering debts without pressures from banks.’
‘ But Aunt Roberta I can’t since I don’t even know if I can live like this, nor I expect can Arthur. We are just friends.’
‘Really then you had better focus on your relationship for a while and let me know if my judgement is right or not. I made a big mistake once in my life but I won’t let that happen to my granddaughter.’
Chapter 22
After the shock of the declaration by Aunt Roberta Robert and Adele held hands beneath the table so that each knew the other was supportive and not offended. Aunt Roberta looked on and saw the glances between them that confirmed her judgement that they had a special relationship. It was at least some compensation to her for the losses she’d endured in her lifetime.
The conversation between the three of them became more relaxed again and much more than on the prior occasions at dinner together. Aunt Roberta asked young Arthur about his family in Bristol and his ambitions for the business he had taken over. It was a little awkward at first since in Bristol Arthur Fleming didn’t exist but Adele was quick thinking and used to being put under pressure. Arthur said that her cousin Adele had taken over responsibility for the running of the business as authorised by her father and his role was to assist and deal with the problems of the threats against the Gentleman’s Club as holder of the shares on behalf of the family.
Robert felt the nervousness in Adeles hand as she responded and was impressed by her speed of thought hoping that Aunt Roberta wouldn’t be too intrusive and he tried to change the subject in support of Adele towards the type of business the family were involved in.
Adele sensed it was better if Robert didn’t get involved in her explanation in case Aunt Roberta knew more than she was letting on so she gave a look to Robert that made it clear for him to leave her to deal with the topic and she squeezed his hand to emphasise her desire. Robert sat quiet and Arthur went on to explain that Adele was the apple of her fathers eye but he had been the closet to their grandfather Judge Fleming and had visited him regularly in London as a child. Hence as the boy in the family he was the natural choice to take control of the shares and his grandfather had arranged for him to become a member. His grandfather had died 2 years earlier and the family had travelled to the funeral in London.
Adele shuddered a little when Aunt Roberta remarked that she’d attended the funeral and met some of the family including Adele who had inherited her fathers looks but she didn’t recall meeting Arthur.
The hole that Adele had dug for herself was getting deeper so she was getting desperate for a response that might work and Arthur took over from her and simply said that he was on a ship returning from North America where he had visited cousins. It seemed a reasonable enough explanation in the circumstances especially since Adele realised that she had seen Aunt Roberta at the funeral in the church but not at the wake.
Aunt Roberta then asked when first met her granddaughter and what she thought of her. Arthur was not expecting this interrogation so was not prepared for any of it but at least he could tell the truth that they’d met at a function and danced together. He’d been attracted by her beauty and now having met Aunt Roberta he could see that this was inherited. Robert recalled his first thoughts of Aunt Roberta when he arrived and gently stepped on Arthurs foot in protest. Adele knew this would get a reaction and smiled to herself.
After an hour of general chit chat and a glass or two of port Aunt Roberta said it was time for her to withdraw to her bed and so Adele decided it was appropriate to leave. After saying goodnight to Aunt Roberta as she disappeared up the staircase she beckoned Robert to go into the drawing room into the light of the fire embers and a sole gas light. She apologised if she’d embarrassed him with her answers to Aunt Roberta and said she felt she ought to keep a distance for a while to avoid more questioning and a slip on her part.
Robert protested and pushed her gently backwards demonstrating some authority to Arthur for the first time since meeting in London. ‘No you can’t, we are doing this to help you sort out your problems at the Club and help save your business. You can’t give in we have to carry on.’
Adele looked into Robert blue eyes and shook her head because she knew that she ought to have better answers that avoided any chance of exposure knowing that she might have even put at risk her membership of the Club if it leaked that she’d been masquerading as a non-existent cousin. Aunt Roberta certainly was unique and seemed to have an agenda to protect her niece but then again that was another risk. She failed to notice that Robert was hesitating to step forward so they could embrace because Robert somehow felt it was inappropriate whilst presenting as Roberta. It was as if the garb changed his behaviour as if he’d been hypnotised.
Adele decided she’d be better to leave and offered to meet the following day to discuss Aunt Roberta’s proposals and her concerns. She agreed to collect Robert at 11 am to give him chance to breakfast with Aunt Roberta and she would think about a venue for lunch where they had some privacy. She waved to her cab driver and turned to kiss Robert on the lips but he turned his head so the kiss was less intimate on his cheek. He was still feeling uneasy but he stayed at the door to wave goodnight.
Robert climbed the staircase slowly looking at the pictures and portraits in the subdued light of the gas lamps. Why had his mother died whilst he survived? She was too young to be taken and never had chance to hold him. She’d never had chance to grow up with her blood parents because of some stupid family dictate insisting her father married some woman of convenience. That led to a dispute and her fathers death. There seemed to have been no winners and everybody lost.
Thank goodness he’d met Adele and agreed to come to London to stay with an Aunt he never even knew existed. This was a world that he could never expected to see even in his wildest dreams. He was excited but scared because he was living on clouds and dressing and presenting as a fictional niece of his Aunt. It was so different to the life he’d live in Bristol and every day seemed to be different. No hard graft so far just a life of social action accompanying Adele who seemed experienced and confident whilst presenting as Arthur.
Polly was waiting in his room and helped him to undress and change into a freshly laundered nightdress. She was discreet as usual and Robert was soon being tucked into his sheets. His mind was far too active to fall to sleep straight away and he guessed the port wasn’t helping either that laid heavy on his stomach. It took an hour or so for him to fall to sleep and he heard the sound of the church bell chime at 10 pm as the doors were closed for the night. He whispered good night to his poor mother Elizabeth who had been laid to rest in a cold deep grave so long ago.
Eventually she heard the door handle turn and Polly appeared with fresh water for bathing and then a cup of hot milk. Polly pulled back the heavy drapes to let in the early morning sunshine and the morning chorus in the trees in the neighbouring garden. He needed the chamber pot so Polly was discreet and found some reason to leave the room for a few minutes.
Once again Robert was offered a morning bath that he gladly accepted since he liked the oils and the fragrances that were good for his skin. At home in Bristol he was lucky to have the chance to bathe once per week never mind every day and that involved a visit to the Public facilities where privacy didn’t exist.
This morning Polly had produced a lighter weight of dress over his under garment in a brighter colour tending towards a deep pink. At breakfast Aunt Roberta complimented him for the selection and she mentioned the name of the dressmaker who had designed it and the year it was made.
They had their usual light breakfast together with fruit juices and chatted about some of the current events in London. It was rapidly changing and had expanded considerably through Aunt Roberta’s lifetime. New bridges had been built over the river connecting pockets of wealth and prosperity. Some regions were very popular and attracted traders and others seemed poor and run down.
When Adele arrived she greeted both Robert and his Aunt and suggested that she and Robert take some tea in the walled garden before heading out to Kew Gardens and then taking lunch close by in Richmond. It would take a few hours and after that Adele wanted to invite Robert to her apartments to relax together. Adele in fact invited Robert to stay the night and suggested Polly might pack something appropriate.
After careful consideration Robert convinced himself that such an offer would meet with his Aunts approval. But he was still a little peeved with Adele from the night before. He wasn’t sure that he could manage undressing and dressing without Pollys assistance but then Adele told him not to worry. She had already arranged for Polly’s daughter to assist.
Before their departure Adele asked if Robert wanted to visit the jewellers to look at designs of engagement ring but Robert declined.
Chapter 23
For the first time since they met Adele found Robert to be a little distant towards her as she helped him into the carriage as the cab driver secured Roberts bag with clean undergarments and a nightdress in case he stayed overnight at Adeles apartments.
Robert didn’t particularly want to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew and felt they needed to talk first, over lunch and they were already departing late. Adele instructed the driver to head for Richmond where they would take lunch in a pleasant hotel dining room with a view of the river. The horse quickly moved into a trot and they settled back into their seats for the journey out of the City. It was Adele’s opportunity to hold Roberts attention save the occasional pointing to a landmark.
Her concern had been Robert’s sudden change attitude towards her at dinner the previous evening after Aunt Roberta had put forward her proposals. Robert was still quite distant and looked out of the cab rather than into Adele’s eyes that she had hoped would demonstrate her care for him. She knew her personality had changed a lot since their first meeting in Bristol but surely Robert was capable of understanding that was caused by the responsibilities on her shoulders having taken over the family business at a young age and as a woman to boot. She was competing with men who had a lifetimes experience in trousers and who were natural bullies. Some of their traits were bound to have rubbed off but she was still the same sensitive person underneath this male garb. She squeezed Roberts hand a little encouraging him to look at her.
Robert on the other hand was finding that he had no responsibilities and he felt guilty for not being home in Bristol to help run their failing business but he knew that his father, now his great uncle after Aunt Roberta’s sudden declaration, felt that his mission was to bond with her and then Robert would be secure for life. Now he understood why his father had been so pleased to receive the letter inviting him to London. An olive branch at least or some other more serious reason. Maybe Aunt Roberta was hiding an illness or tired of running her businesses and needed help. He had no relevant experience of running a business or financial affairs like Adele.
Adele spoke first ‘I’m sorry.’
‘What are you sorry about?’
‘I’m sorry if I’ve offended you or have done something to cause you pain.’
‘Don’t make matters worse because you don’t understand.’
‘ Robert I don’t know what I did or said to hurt you last evening but I’m sorry.’
‘As I said don’t make matters worse.’
Adele withdrew a little and tried to give Robert chance to enjoy the journey and the beautiful sunshine. She tried to understand what might have caused this loss of affection towards her. Robert seemed so sensitive these last few days and perhaps he felt threatened by her change in role and was being affected by spending so much time as a young woman. He certainly had adapted to the role quickly and quite naturally. She liked him as a man but was falling in love with him as a woman and she felt that Aunt Roberta recognised it even if Robert didn’t.
When they arrived at the hotel in Richmond Adele jumped down and went to the other side of the cab to assist Robert in his skirts. She had the grace to say that he looked beautiful today and the words came from nowhere.
‘At last a complement at last.’
Adele arranged a return time with the cab driver and took Roberts bag in one hand and another smaller bag as well allowing Robert to take her other arm. As they entered the hotel and were welcomed by the concierge who escorted them to the reception where Robert was taken aback as Adele seated him in a leather chair and then proceeded to check in as Mr & Mrs Arthur Fleming. A bellboy took charge of the bags.
As Adele returned to help Robert from his seat he spoke out, ‘What are you doing? I thought we were here for lunch then back to London.’
‘Sorry dear I decided we should enjoy this location in my favourite part of London away from distractions and prying eyes. I wanted us to have private time together and perhaps take a walk later.’
‘But you never consulted me and I thought we were staying at your apartments tonight and that you’d organized Polly’s daughter Emily to help me.’
‘No she is cleaning my apartments today since they are not ready to receive a guest like you since I’ve been alone there for several months.’
‘But you are presumptuous if you booked a hotel and register us as man and wife. Have you lost your senses?’
‘Not at all my dear I know that you had a wonderful time when we shared a room at the Club and I thought that you and I would be safer here and can relax together. I can forget about business and the Club and after all Aunt Roberta encouraged us to be alone together.’
‘But don’t you think of my reputation here. How can I hold my head high or have the respect of the staff if we share a room together?’
‘Robert I can hardly believe my ears. Is that you inside that pretty dress or has Roberta taken over control of your body and mind?’
‘You know what I mean. Surely it would have offended you if the boot was on the other foot and I had done the same?’
‘Every woman needs some excitement in life and a surprise from time to time. I should know don’t you think.’
The bellboy escorted them to their room that was a main suite in the hotel looking down towards the river. The view was amazing and Robert stood looking out whilst Adele tipped the bellboy and then locked the door after he left.
‘But Adele, who is going to help me with my clothes so I can undress later and then help me to dress again in the morrow? Polly is not here and neither is Emily as you promised she would be in your apartments.’
‘Don’t you consider all my years of experience living and dressing in such attire to be of value then? I’m sure we will manage.’
Adele made her move to try to encourage Robert to forget whatever had upset him and placed her hands on his hips looking into his eyes hoping for a kiss or at least a touch of lips. She moved her hands to feel how slim he was and the corset definitely accentuated his feminine assets. She glanced down. His breasts seemed fuller as each day passed or was she imagining things. She would have liked to touch them or better still kiss each one but she held back her urges. It was better if she took care not to cause more offence. Hopefully the chance would come later.
‘Robert what did I do wrong last night? Your Aunt suggested we spend some private time together and that we marry and live together. She suggested we get engaged and choose a ring together. None of this was my idea.’
‘Exactly.’
‘What do you mean exactly?’
‘Exactly! Just think about it.’
Before Adele had chance to pursue this further there was a knock on the door. It was a room attendant delivering fresh drinking water and a basket of fresh fruit to the room that included some juicy strawberries. The interruption distracted their attention and they went quiet.
Adele reflected and wondered if it had been a mistake to change the arrangements to an overnight excursion in Richmond without telling Robert but had her reasons for doing so. She hoped that Robert would understand and not complain when she had the chance to explain. However it seemed that he was even further angered and that wasn’t the nice surprise she’d intended.
When they were in privacy again Robert said he couldn’t believe that Adele was taking him so much for granted and he’d never have done that with her and neither would most men that he knew. Adele felt a little awkward but on the other hand she couldn’t understand why such an excursion wasn’t viewed as anything but a nice surprise. No man had ever spoiled her like this and in truth she knew that Robert didn’t have the means to afford such an elegant room in a hotel of this standard.
‘So what have I done wrong since this was intended as an apology. It was meant to be a nice treat and a nice surprise.’
‘Look let’s leave it please and take a walk since it looks warm outside and the river looks splendid. This is a beautiful location and it’s hard to believe we are so close to London.’
‘Robert, or should I call you Roberta since you look very pretty in that dress, I have one request to make that is most important to me and I need your help.’
‘Oh a request to boot?’
‘Yes this evening I have arranged for a business meeting that will be over dinner here at the hotel. I need your support since the man has made threats and is most objectionable.’
‘ How so? Do you need my help as a man since I’m helpless like this and fear that any man worth his salt would see through the decoration from such close quarters as a dining table?’
‘You’ve met the man and seen his rudeness first hand. But I have the measure of him but I need your support as Roberta not Robert.’
‘Who is this man?’
‘ Remember when we first visited the Club on your first day in London? The man who slapped my back and was rude to both of us? Sir Henry Tancred.’
‘Yes an awful man. But he saw me as myself, as Robert not like this.’
‘Richmond is where he has a large house that he inherited. He thinks he owns the area and nobody stands up to him. If you recall when he saw you he suggested that you were my Nancy boy-friend or even a woman disguised as a man. So if he remembers your face and you present like this as Roberta then my estimate is that he will be so full of himself that he was right about you and our relationship. He will see this as his chance to throw me out of the Club for breach of the rules. No women allowed. It will be his chance to force me to sell my shares for pennies.’
After further talk between them Robert that carried on through the hotel gardens and then down to the river Robert eventually agreed to Adele’s request. He agreed to put himself in an awkward situation to provide an opportunity to save her business and her shareholding in the Club. However he expressed great concern that she was in a high stakes game and this man appeared to be aggressive and more than likely he had cheated lots of people as he accumulated his wealth. He did not have the air of a gentleman nor to deserve such a title or be mixing with important members of London society at the Club. Adele couldn’t believe that he had ever been accepted for membership and knew that her grandfather would be turning in his grave.
By the time they turned to walk back to the hotel Robert was holding more tightly to Adele’s arm and this was taken by Adele as a positive sign. With Roberta on his arm he had no desire to glance at young women walking by as he had done in Hyde Park and he felt he(she) was making progress again.
Chapter 24
On arrival back at the hotel Adele suggested some tea and refreshments and they opted to take a quiet table on the veranda at the rear of the hotel that looked over the garden and was shaded in the afternoon.
It was a warm day with blue sky and the few white clouds had disappeared. Both felt a little over dressed for such a warm early summer day and Adele removed her necktie and loosened her top shirt buttons. She also removed her jacket. Poor Robert was unable to loosen anything and was corseted like most women of middle/upper class so sitting still in the shade was a relief. The concierge offered him a fan that was welcomed.
Adele ordered and headed to the gentleman’s toilet to relieve herself and freshen up and was pleased to find it empty. There were just two cubicles and she was thankful for that since standing to relief herself was not an option. She felt that this was another advantage that men had over women but in any case there was a more serious issue to address since she had been experiencing discomfort in her stomach that was a signal that the next few days meant regular discharges and a need to carry padding. She had some in her bag in the room in anticipation so she hoped any onset would be early morning the next day and used a silk handkerchief for short term protection against any leakage.
She was able to wash and rinse her face and neck to cool down and was grateful for the hand towels on display. An attendant came in as she finished and wished her good day taking the soiled towel and others in a basket and providing new ones. He didn’t seem to suspect that Adele was anything other than a fresh faced young man who was not mature enough to grow whiskers or a handlebar moustache. Adele tried to appear taller and stronger of course as she looked in the mirror especially since he was smaller than her.
On arriving back at the table Robert sensed that Adele wasn’t feeling well since she was holding her stomach and she had very little colour in her cheeks like she normally had. Adele sat down and tried to dismiss his concern saying that she must have eaten some bad cold meat at breakfast and her stomach was uncomfortable. She told him that the walk had helped but perhaps it had been too sunny so she needed some tea to help her stomach ache. For all their earlier differences Robert showed his natural concern and kept a close watch in case she felt sick or fainted as women were inclined to do. Mostly however that was due to the problem now facing him of a tight corset.
They sat a while and the intake of liquid seemed to be settling Adeles stomach and at least some colour came back to her cheeks. Robert persisted with questions to try to understand if Adele had a food infection or something more serious. He even wondered if she was pregnant as a result of their afternoon romp in the Club but he knew in his heart that was impossible since it was just a few days earlier and Adele had taken care anyway to avoid him entering her. Their intimacy had been more through touch as far as he could recall but they had been drinking alcohol.
Finally Adele stopped the questioning by admitting that the stomach pain was something that occurred regularly each month that was common for women in their early years from the age of 12 onwards. She couldn’t resist saying that Robert didn’t have to worry about such problems and he could just enjoy the pleasures of womanhood without the pain. He couldn’t answer.
Adele decided that she ought to take a rest before dinner and arrange for something warm that could be placed on her stomach. She didn’t think it was appropriate that she asked directly in view of her appearance so she urged Robert to ask as discreetly as possible on the basis that he was the one in discomfort. Nervously he was able to arrange for a bedpan through a maid who seemed to understand without any detailed explanation. Back at the room Adele removed her outer clothing and was soon resting in bed where she fell asleep once the pan was applied. Robert relaxed in a chair watching over her.
It was around 6 o’clock in the evening when Adele awoke from her sleep and she felt better but she was very embarrassed. At that time she had felt so bad that she really wished that she was a man who seemed to have so much advantage over women and it angered her. Then she looked at Robert who approached her with a damp cloth to wipe her brow and he seemed genuinely concerned and was displaying his caring personality that had endeared him to her from the time they first met. He stooped to kiss her gently on the lips and asked if she was well enough to meet Sir Henry and eat dinner or if he should cancel it on her behalf. Adele would hear none of it and sat up.
The dinner appointment had been arranged for 6-30 pm so Adele was keen to show she was well enough to attend and she was happy that the warmth of the bed pan had worked. Soon she was fully dressed again and back to her confident self and she helped Robert adjust his dress and suggested he might show a little more of his breasts to distract Sir Henry that shocked him a little but he agreed. Robert was non the wiser about what Adele intended to discuss with Sir Henry in the meeting or over dinner and Adele insisted that he should stay silent as much as possible and she would do most of the talking.
They went downstairs to the lounge to await Sir Henrys arrival and Adele arranged for a dinner table in a quiet corner of the restaurant. Sir Henry was well known to the staff and not very well liked based upon their reaction rather than anything they said and it seemed that he was a frequent visitor to the hotel who dined there regularly. Adele mentioned to Robert that he was closely connected with the owners as she ordered two glasses of pale sherry that she insisted would soothe her stomach rather than unsettle it.
Sir Henry was late arriving that wasn’t a surprise to Adele. He strode into the lounge and could be heard approaching as soon as he entered the hotel reception that he apparently breezed through as if he owned the hotel. Adele stood up somewhat nervously that irritated Robert since he felt she was signalling that he was better than her. He showed her no respect and he looked around the room spying for anybody who might recognise him and consider him as some sort of celebrity.
‘Now then young Arthur Fleming welcome to my patch. Did you bring me the certificates to settle your debts? Dinner is on you and I have a great appetite and a need to quench this thirst.’
Adele managed a response. ‘I have brought something to dinner but I fear it may cause you some displeasure and indigestion.’
‘How so young Fleming you are nothing like the great man and a disgrace to the family name as was your father. Come where is my refreshment? I’ve had a busy day with not a moment to myself or to indulge. My throat needs lubrication.’
Adele stood her ground and offered her hand out of politeness that was ignored.
‘Sir I have a table reserved and I’ve invited a guest Miss Roberta Fleming. Here she is.’
Sir Henry eyed Robert and his gaze focused on Roberts breasts rather than on his eyes that made Robert shiver with annoyance.
‘Ah young Fleming your taste has changed. No Nancy Boy with you tonight. Who is this creature? Any man would be ready to take her if you know what I mean. Good choice young man you are learning at last.’
‘Sir please hold back your crudeness this is my fiancé and soon we will be wed. Later this year is planned.’
‘Ah so are you inviting me to a wedding by way of this dinner or paying your debts. I care not what you do in your life once I have your shares in my hand and I have with me the princely sum of 1 guinea that I offered. I leave you to meet the banks to recover the loan notes tomorrow that I will arrange.’
‘Sir you insult me with this offer and you insulted my father moreso that took him to an early grave. Nevertheless I invited you to dinner since as I said I have something to share with you tonight that might at least cause you to reflect on your recent behaviour and encourage you to withdraw those jackasses who spend their lives hiding behind corners or peering over bushes.’
Sir Henry laughed and looked long and hard again at Robert lifting his eyes from his breasts to Roberts face. Then something registered with him. He recognised the eyes and the face and was sure this young woman was the same person Arthur Fleming had signed into the club as his friend. He had known it was a woman in disguise and such behaviour was not acceptable and punishable by banishment. However he recognised the name but he’d never had occasion to pleasure her even though he did enjoy young blood from time to time. Stupid young fool Fleming for breaching rules in broad daylight. There was a back staircase for that.
They moved through to dinner and whilst Adele and Robert looked at the menu Sir Henry ordered soup followed by venison served rare with potatoes and Spring vegetables. He ordered some fine Claret to accompany it ignoring his host and his guest.
Adele was getting angry at his rudeness that made her wonder why on earth her grandfather had hoped for a knighthood. He was 10 times the man that Tancred was and at least 100 times more a gentleman.
‘So young Fleming who is this fiancé of yours and why is she hear at our table. Business over dinner is for gentlemen and women either serve or await our pleasure after the port.’
‘Sir you continue to be rude but take care since my fiancé is not some wench you come across in the dens of iniquity that you might frequent or pick up on the streets of London she is well connected and the second largest shareholder in the Club.’
‘Never heard of a woman as shareholder so what is her connection. This is a Gentleman’s Club. Is that why she disguised herself as a man and entered the Club? A woman can’t hold shares and has no right to enjoy its hospitality.’
‘ Sir you may know her grandfather and her grandmother and I think you may find that you trade with their Company regularly and use their credit to your advantage.’
‘So Miss who might you be that I might be in fear of?’
‘Her grandmother is Roberta Deane of Tavistock Square in London and her mother was Elizabeth Deane. Her grandfather was an original shareholder in the club and owned businesses in London and Bristol that she is directly in line to inherit. He was one of the original investors in properties in Oxford Street that included the Club along with my grandfather Judge Fleming.’
‘So young Fleming what proof or evidence? There is no connection to you anyway.’
‘But Sir we are to be married with the blessing of Roberta grandmother and you cannot stop it so cease your misbehaviour. After our marriage we will be in full control of the Club and all its assets and I know that the property has increased in value significantly. Furthermore Roberta’s grandmother is prepared to settle all outstanding debts and recover loan notes from banks. Roberta and I intend to involve ourselves in the businesses owned by Roberta Deane Senior and live in London at Tavistock Square.’
‘You speak rubbish Sir so withdraw your remarks. You threaten me assuming I will withdraw but I will not. You novices have no experience of business or investment. You are barely out of school. She’ll be pregnant in no time and you sir will be sowing your oats around London spending whatever you inherit. Here is my guinea. Take it as it is my last offer or I leave.’
‘Goodnight Sir.’
Chapter 25
Hopefully this chapter accelerates the story enough for those waiting for the final chapter.
Sir Henry grasped the arms of his dining chair in anger and raised himself angrily to his feet. He was a much taller man than either Robert or Arthur would ever be and his face was red with rage heading towards purple. ‘Gadzooks. You Sir will live to regret this day. I will have my way and you will suffer as a consequence. You may think that you are smart but you are still wet behind the ears. The pair of you will suffer.’
At that Sir Henry stormed out of the hotel collecting his hat and cane on the way and muttering loudly that included a few choice curses not fit for a ladies ears. Nor for a gentleman’s for that matter.
He had barely touched his dinner that was removed by a waiter to keep it safe and warm until his return.
‘There will be no return you may feed to the cats in the kitchens Sir.’
Robert looked at Adele who was smiling and raised her glass to toast goodbye to a Cad.
Robert touched Adele’s arm and asked her to take a breath and consider what she had just done and if it was foolhardy and impulsive. Adele just whispered back ‘I know what I am doing, trust me.’
‘But not only did you tell him that we are engaged that we are not but you presumed we would be married soon and I think you are well ahead of yourself.’
‘How so you will marry me surely. Your Aunt, your grandmother, has declared it and has offered you a future of bliss. I can take care of the business and teach you like your blood father taught her. You have no need to return to the drudgery of life in your other fathers failing business.’
‘But Adele I see too many problems ahead if we don’t consider this more carefully. I am not a woman in the first place and I doubt I can carry this on much longer. I have been a boy and a man all my life. You expect me to give that life up and let you take your place as my spouse living this life you have decided offers you more freedom and opportunity.’
‘Well would it be so bad?’
‘Of most concern is that you assumed too much. You expected me to agree and most alarming of all is we never even discussed it. You have never asked for my hand in marriage and neither have I asked for yours. The proposal was spoken by Aunt Roberta nay it sounded almost like an ultimatum.’
‘I give you that Robert but it caused no offence to me so why would you rect differently. I saw it as the perfect solution for all of us. If you must know it is my opinion that as a pair we are meant to be, we are ideally suited. Why not live the lives that fits our personalities? That surely is the one being offered and not imposed as an ultimatum. Who knows what the future might bring? ’
‘But Adele this means we live a lie and I’m the loser here surely. You are the winner.’
‘How so? We have chance to live the Upper Class life in London thanks to Aunt Roberta’s generosity and this is her chance of redemption in her final years. She has carried the guilt of giving up her daughter rather than risk her losing her patrimony.’
Robert recalled his personal discussions with Aunt Roberta and a few things began to register in his mind that had seemed confusing. She had suffered a terrible injustice in her life when her one true love, William, had been taken away from her. He had been bullied by his family, cajoled and even black-mailed into marrying Mary Fitzgerald, the daughter of a rich Irish businessman from Dublin who had built a lot of the dock area in Bristol and had invested in a floating dock that made the family rich. The Fitzgerald’s had some sort of hold over Williams father who had met them through his trading connections in Ireland.
Robert explained that according to Aunt Roberta this woman had a firey temper and a deep resentment of her being jealous of her relationship with William. Her father wanted the two families to join in business since he had extended himself too much with the costs involved in the dock. After their wedding Mary Hudson knew he’d maintained contact with Aunt Roberta and eventually the family found out about their love child Elizabeth that incensed them even more.
They had then threatened Aunt Roberta using their connections in the Irish community in London and eventually they tried to harm Elizabeth. Adeles grandfather, Judge Fleming, had been consulted and he arranged for solicitors to issue a legal letter of warning to the Fitzgeralds that quietened them for a while.
That gave William chance to spend time with Aunt Roberta and Elizabeth at Tavistock Square and he set up businesses with Aunt Roberta. He used the Club as an excuse for his time in London who gave him receipts but he in fact would stay with Aunt Roberta.
William was embarrassed to have two children by his wife Mary Hudson and Aunt Roberta tried to understand but that still didn’t provide distraction for his wife and matters got worse because the businesses he’d started with Aunt Roberta were flourishing whilst the Fitzgerald business in Bristol was struggling. Robert decided to leave and move to London and went home to Bristol to make the announcement and gather his belongings. He never returned to Tavistock Square and Aunt Roberta had no contact or messages.
When she eventually heard of his death in an accident from Judge Fleming it broke her heart and her immediate thought was to protect Elizabeth who was sent to live with Roberta’s brother and wife where she’d stayed on frequent occasions as an infant. William had helped them set up a business and buy a small property.
Adele was quick to understand that by now Robert would have aunts or uncles with the Hudson name and perhaps several cousins by now as well as more distant relatives with the Fitzgerald name. She expected they all resented Roberta Deane’s success and laid claim to the shares in the Club as well as half shares of the businesses. Adele knew the Fitzgerald name in Bristol that had been in the press regularly.
However despite this analysis Adele could think of no connection to this cad Tancred so perhaps they ought to consult further with Aunt Roberta in the morrow.
They decided to go to their room since Adele was still feeling uncomfortable and she knew the pain was likely to get worse within the next twenty four hours before the pressure in her stomach was released. Robert was concerned so she had to explain that this was a common problem and she knew how to deal with it.
Once in their room Adele was able to assist Robert to remove his outer clothes and then his corset. She commented on the beneficial effect of being corseted for a few days and Roberts ability to deal with the discomfort. They washed and Robert put on his nightdress and sat brushing his hair whilst Adele disappeared into the small adjoining room to prepare for bed in privacy.
Save hugging each other and an exchange of kisses there was no intimacy once in bed together and for some reason Adele preferred that Robert keep a distance. He was in a mood to forgive her but she was soon sound asleep. He lay still reflecting on everything that had happened that day and the proposal from Aunt Roberta.
Surely it was a crazy idea that would never work. It needed more consideration and he needed to understand more about what was wrong with Adele. How could they be intimate together if she was in need of treatment from a physician.
Adele slept solidly all night but Robert tossed and turned and before long the sun was up. So frustrating not to be able to take advantage of their night together.
Chapter 26
Robert was out of bed before Adele stirred and he listened to the early morning chorus that was a rare opportunity for him growing up in the central district of Bristol. He was usually at work at 6am in any case and rarely left before 6 pm so days were long and hard for little reward.
If he was lucky he would have bread and pickles with meat scraps for breakfast prepared by his mother who he now realised was his great aunt. His diet was basic and more often than not he would have some cheese fruit and milk for lunch so small wonder his breasts had developed. His diet was nothing like the diet he’d been experiencing in London this last few days and he’d never left an empty plate before. Perhaps it was because of the tight corsets he was wearing.
He felt hungry this morning and he hoped Adele would be well enough to eat some bacon and eggs with him. He wouldn’t like to eat alone with the hotel full of businessmen who had started to become boisterous the previous evening at dinner due to the alcohol being consumed. He was glad that Sir Henry had stormed out after the confrontation with Adele and hoped he would not return before they had packed and paid the bill.
First he needed Adele to be well enough to help him into his corset and dress. After wiping himself over to refresh himself using a wet cloth he stood over Adele that caused her to open her eyes looking slightly confused as she came around. Robert bent over to kiss her forehead without considering that his nightdress was gaping open revealing two soft white mounds and his pink nipples.
That brought a smile from Adele’s face. She whispered that it was a nice way to be woken and that he had beautiful firm breasts and they made him look totally feminine.
Robert was embarrassed and blushed since they were relatively new to him and had grown to the point that now they were becoming very obvious. He was conscious that he had never had to take precautions to cover his chest before and pleased that Adele was not offended by his appearance. As they looked into each others eyes Adele reached up and gently stroked his right nipple beneath his nightdress and responded immediately to her gentle caress. He pushed forward slightly as she moved her hand to his left nipple that also responded. He leaned further forward to kiss her on the lips and she placed both hands behind his head to maintain the kiss as long as possible.
Robert moved to make an attempt to pull back the bed sheets to slide in by her side but she stopped him with her arm and said that it wasn’t the right time. He was slightly confused because he knew that she had hoped they would be intimate and he was ready to try. Adele stopped him and responded to his puzzled look by saying that she would explain later but she needed to bathe and attend to herself.
Robert withdrew allowing Adele to get out of bed and she immediately covered herself with a robe to visit the small room with a modern wooden toilet that was a luxury new to Robert who was still using chamber pots. Robert also donned a robe and went into the small room next door to their room where a wooden bath unit and wash stand was available to check that warm water was available to prepare the bath for Adele. He headed back to their suite to ring the bell for assistance and a maid appeared to take care of everything. Robert would use the washstand in the room and a sponge rather than the bath.
He waited patiently in the bedroom after cleaning himself whilst Adele bathed alone having declined assistance from the maid in view of her presentation as Arthur Deane. Whilst she wasn’t well endowed there was no way she could fool anyone that this was a mans chest if on display. The warm bath was welcomed by Adele who sank below the water level whilst the maid averted her eyes. The warm bath recovered her spirits and was ready to enjoy breakfast.
Once dressed in her shirt and breeches she assisted Robert to dress and ensured that his corset was tight and securely fastened. He seemed to be getting used to being pulled around whilst his waist was reduced to a size that would fit into the dress. Adele then helped him with his hair that she brushed and then tied at the back with a ribbon. He would turn the heads of most men and Adele complemented him.
They were ready at last so they headed to the breakfast room where they sat in a quiet corner and enjoyed the fresh eggs and bacon accompanied by toasted bread and tea. Robert frequently checked that Adele had recovered sufficiently to travel back to Tavistock Square where he felt they should relax and talk with Aunt Roberta rather than attempt any meetings that Adele might have planned. He wanted to discuss more about the Fitzgerald’s and her proposal for them to become engaged and to live under the care of Aunt Roberta until his inheritance was due.
Adele was relieved to feel that Robert seemed more positive about Aunt Roberta’s proposals and hoped that he would see the benefits even if he was to change his mind sometime in the future. She was quite relaxed about him presenting as Roberta rather than Robert and was certain that he would become comfortable living full time in that role at least until Aunt Roberta passed away. It wasn’t too much to ask of him was it?
Unfortunately, as far as Adele was concerned, there was still no indication of interest in viewing engagement rings or discussing possible marriage plans although she was excited by the prospect herself and she thought that Robert would do her proud and she felt her grandfather would have been delighted to see her as his grandson. She knew he had been disappointed to have been close to death without the family name carrying on. His actions to invent a nephew were his only way to carry on his legacy with the Club.
Looking at Robert dressed as a young woman each day had stirred something inside Adele because he was quite pretty and the longer he played the part of Roberta the more his mannerisms changed from masculine to feminine and his personality was changing to suit. He was very convincing and she wondered, if had none of this happened, she would have been happier with a relationship with another woman. It was like having chance of a life with another woman with the opportunity to have time as a man and she felt sure that running the family businesses was easier if she had been a man. At least if she lived in London with Roberta she could visit the Club frequently as Arthur and if she needed to go back to Bristol for meetings she could present as Adele. It wasn’t going to be easy though so it needed a lot more thought as well as the full support of Robert. Her mannerisms were changing too.
Adele felt that she had to confide to Robert about her stomach problems and lack of intimacy the night before they departed the hotel since she needed time in the toilet and he had expressed his concern. He didn’t have any real knowledge of how a woman’s body functioned until she sat him down to explain and it wasn’t a subject that he enjoyed. He had seen part of Adele’s body without clothing whilst sharing a bed at the Club and knew about breasts and their function but never imagined that women had such discomfort every few weeks and needed privacy to maintain their personal hygiene.
He puzzled about it all the way back to Tavistock Square and wondered if this might happen to him if he carried on this masquerade and agreed to Aunt Roberta’s proposals to take up the role of a woman full time and become engaged and then married to Adele. How could they have children in the future if that happened?
Adele did from time to time wonder what was concerning Robert whilst they travelled in the cab. However she was content to stay quiet and grip the seat arm since there were areas where the road became uneven and bumpy bouncing the cab as the horse trotted. She also held Roberts hand and closed her eyes as much as possible whilst he tried to comfort her and from time to time he stared at places the passed without really taking much notice. It was all strange to him.
Each time Robert looked at Adele her eyes were closed and he could see that she wasn’t very comfortable at all but she was determined not to delay their return to Tavistock Square and then to her apartments to wash and change.
At last the cab pulled up outside Aunt Roberta’s house and Adele jumped down to help Robert alight despite his protests. She took his bag and knocked on the front door to be greeted by Polly. Aunt Roberta was entertaining two friends but took time to introduce her niece Roberta and her companion Arthur. She agreed to have dinner together later with Adele promising to arrive around 5-30 pm after she had rested from the journey. She looked pale and uncomfortable and Robert wanted to go with her but she insisted that she would recover quickly since she knew her body. That confused Robert even more. He knew his own body that wasn’t particularly complicated. Better he look at one of the medical books on the shelves in the corner of the day room when Aunt Roberta’s guests had left.
Polly was on hand to help him undress and remove his corset before she left him to prepare his bath of scented water. He welcomed the treat and the chance to allow his breasts to be released and submerged beneath the warm water. Polly took the opportunity to glance at him from time to time and admired the firmness of his breasts and left him to soak with sponges and perfumed soaps that Aunt Roberta was importing from France through her trading business.
Polly returned to add warm water to the bath and helped Robert to wash his hair. She said that her daughter had cleaned and tidied Adeles apartments and left them in good order and had decided to take on laundry duties. She did appear a little disturbed so Robert asked if he could help. After much persistence he managed to persuade her to tell him what was concerning her but she was vague because of the risk of exposing her daughters lack of confidentiality. He concluded that she was trying to tell him that there was evidence that Mr Arthur entertained in his apartment and she was concerned that he may have a woman friend. Robert let the matter drop but said that he trusted Arthur and he had many friends in London and also a cousin from Bristol who stayed with him from time to time.
Polly provided the fresh towels and a robe and helped Robert dry himself as discreetly as possible focusing on his hair. She had left some fresh undergarment and a choice of dresses recommending something bright since they were entertaining Mr Arthur.
At 5 pm went down to the dayroom to search the bookshelves for a medical book that might refer to the female anatomy. He found what he wanted and sat in a leather chair to understand more about the differences between his body and Adele’s. He was relieved to find that the risk of him having a similar illness to that experienced by Adele was low but horrified to see that some women suffered a lot of bleeding but without any stab wound or injury. He hoped Adele was alright and was relieved when she finally arrived just after 5-30pm.
The Final Chapter of this book of more than 60,000 words.
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Chapter 27
Adele certainly looked refreshed and she was free of the pained expression and the colour in her cheeks had returned. She greeted Robert with a kiss and a short embrace and noticed the medical book on the table beside the leather chair. She assured him that she felt much better and that the pressure on her lower stomach had ceased after she’d had chance to bathe and that she’d managed to pass the obstruction with some gentle massaging of her stomach.
Robert asked if there had been any passing of blood in case she was injured inside advising that he’d been reading the medical book and he was concerned in case by dressing in female garb and behaving as a woman would cause a similar infection.
Adele burst out laughing and shook her head and she could hardly answer Robert. It took her a few minutes to recover her composure and she asked Robert to show her the information in the medical book that he’d been reading. They sat together on the sofa and Robert opened the book to the chapter he’d been reading. It referred to regular bleeding that occurred frequently in young women that required rest and protection with bandages or clean cloths held securely in place. Adele was quite embarrassed because, whilst Robert looked and behaved as any good mannered young woman would, he was masquerading as a young woman so wasn’t entitled to discuss such delicate matters even discreetly. She had to find a way to satisfy his concerns and curiosity without offending him.
Robert only had the one experience of intimacy on which to call that had been with Adele in the room at the Club and he only saw a glimpse of her lower body and had to rely on his recollection of the contact between them between the bedsheets, such as it was, whilst they were both in a happy mood after the drinks they had consumed.
Adele explained that women were open in an area of their bodies below their skirts and therefore prone to infection so from time to time this resulted in a build-up of body fluids to provide a resistance and the fluids needed to be released from time to time. It made Robert sit and think and he held Adele’s hand looking at her groin area in her breeches that seemed the same as any man. Perhaps he needed to take extra care not to become infected by Adele until she had recovered.
Robert replaced the book on the shelf seemingly satisfied with the explanation but in reality he intended to read it in more detail in case he needed some lotions or medicines from a pharmacist.
At 6pm Polly arrived to serve a pre-dinner glass of sherry and shortly afterwards Aunt Roberta entered and sat in the leather chair with the two of them facing her. She appeared quite relaxed and Robert felt she looked a few years younger and seemed to be benefiting from more social contact since his arrival. She was interested to hear of their trip to Richmond and even asked if they’d visited the Royal Gardens at Kew that she knew well.
Arthur interjected and explained that her purpose for visiting Richmond had in fact been to meet with a shareholder of the Club who had been causing him problems and making threats. He had coaxed Roberta to accompany him but only because she felt that having a lady present as attractive as her would distract this man, Sir Henry Tancred with the hope that he didn’t become aggressive and rude.
Aunt Roberta seemed to react but Adele wasn’t sure so she asked if she knew the family or the name. She did know the name and had met Sir Henry and others in the Tancred family who were originally from Cheltenham and owned large areas of land and properties. Sir Henry’s father was Sir George Tancred who had been an original shareholder in the Club along with Judge Fleming and her betrothed, William Hudson, but he had lost his shares whilst gambling that caused a massive fight in the Club and a fallout between the three of them.
According to the records that Arthur had seen during his meetings at the Club Sir Henry had managed to take back control of some of the shares but not sufficient to have an influence or benefit significantly if the property was ever sold or used as security for his business.
Aunt Roberta then expressed concern and asked that they both take care and she didn’t think it was wise that Roberta be introduced to this man because he might realise the family connection and cause trouble. It was already too late so Roberta intervened to explain what Arthur had said that caused him to storm out of the hotel.
Aunt Roberta explained that William had 2 children by Mary Fitzgerald after he went back to Bristol and was forced into marriage by his parents. He did it to save his father’s business but the Fitzgerald family were clearly trying to get hold of the Hudson family businesses and they had some sort of hold over William’s father.
The eldest child was a son, Frank Hudson and the youngest was a daughter Florence and neither of them had the opportunity to get to know their father that at least their own daughter had done in her early years. Frank Hudson married Florence O’Connor and the O’Connor family who were prominent in the Bristol area. The daughter Grace Hudson married into the Tancred family and there was the link that Arthur was looking for because her husband was Sir Henry Tancred. She referred to herself as Lady Tancred and was more like her mother than her father. Frank was different but Aunt Roberta had never met either of them to confirm what she had been told.
The O’Connor family were also large investors in the floating dock in Bristol that was a poor investment since it was not fully operational and the port of Bristol was being developed at the same time. They were from Cork in Ireland and owned several sailing ships and properties in Dublin as did the Fitzgerald’s. They were all ambitious and dangerous people with a bad reputation based upon information that Aunt Roberta had gathered through her business contacts and they made some bad investments. Hence the Fitzgerald family had caused a lot of trouble to Aunt Roberta and they wanted William Hudson’s share of the profits on his investments in London that included his shares in the Gentleman’s club.
Neither Adele nor Robert could believe what they were hearing since these families seemed to be completely out of their depth in business in England and using crude practices they’d probably found that worked in Southern Ireland. Aunt Roberta went very quiet as she reflected on these past events. William had agreed to help save his father’s business but should have stayed in London where he was highly respected.
Robert looked at Aunt Roberta and for the first time since meeting her saw a softness and vulnerability and tears filled his eyes. Adele reached forward with a handkerchief that he was grateful to receive. Tears continued for a while as he couldn’t believe that the love between his true grandparents had been destroyed by these people and his own mother had lost her life giving birth to him. How could these people live with themselves and how could they get away with it. Adele took his hand and comforted him as best she could and then Robert stood up and crossed to Aunt Roberta to hug her sinking his head into her shoulder where she consoled him.
‘Grandma Roberta I love you. I’m sorry that you lost my grandfather and then my mother. I didn’t even know you were alive until recently and I’m sorry that I never came to see you or get to know you.’
‘Child don’t feel bad or sorry. You are alive and I have survived because of the memories I have of your grandfather and all this and the Club that Arthur wants to save are part of his legacy. I’ve carried the guilt of losing your mother to try to keep her safe and I never met the man she loved and I wasn’t there was she needed me.’
‘But life is so unfair.’
‘No it’s not unfair it is sometimes cruel but not unfair. You have to be brave and strong and take your chances in life. I had to be strong and I learned where I made my mistakes.’
‘Yes grandma but these people won’t stop. They still seem intent on revenge or stealing everything. Who can stop them?’
Adele stood up and put her hands on their shoulders. ‘We can stop them. We are better than them and the law is on our side. Let me help.’
Aunt Roberta looked at Arthur and smiled. ‘Yes young man I believe that we can and I still have enough strength to help you as I already promised.’
‘But Grandma you insisted that Arthur and I become engaged to marry and then go through with it when I have my next birthday and inherit Grandpa’s shares in the Club.’
‘Yes I did press you to commit together because you need much more than a written contract between you. Marriage is a demonstration of a true partnership that I never had and neither did your mother.’
‘But Grandma you asked me to live with you and let you teach me how to follow in your footsteps. I have only been in London a few days and it is a big decision to completely change my life.’
‘Yes but then think of the sacrifices that have been made and the offer in front of you. A true gentleman here is on offer as well as financial security and a life of enjoyment that none of your ancestors had within their grasp.
‘But Grandma I will disappoint you and so will Arthur since you know nothing about us or our true relationship.’
‘Really? Nothing has ever surprised me in my life and is it so wrong to want to see my beautiful granddaughter get married in a church with a handsome suitor at her side.’
‘But I don’t even own the clothes that I wear and the ones I arrived in have been removed. I am penniless and I rely on your kindness and the support of your personal maid Polly.’
‘Is it kindness to look after your own flesh and blood and the granddaughter of the man I fell in love with? What do you think he would expect me to do in these circumstances?’
‘He would agree with you I believe. Not to spite these horrible people but to make you happy.’
‘Yes exactly right Roberta. In you I see myself as a young woman with an air of confidence and a person who recognises she is beautiful. You are more like me than your own mother.’
‘But I haven’t been asked. You gave your instructions for us to follow.’
Adele touched his shoulder and went down on one knee. ‘Roberta Deane I love you more than anything. Will you marry me and make my life complete?’
Robert looked into her eyes and whispered. ‘Thank you Arthur Fleming. You know I will.’
……………………………….The end…………………
‘Can a relationship develop and can it survive with the changes in role and the struggle to hold on to family assets and inheritances for the two of them.’
The Visit to London had been successful for Robert. His relationship with Adele had developed considerably and had survived the changes in role resulting in marriage proposal. Aunt Roberta had offered a solution that enabled Robert and Adele to come together and hold onto both family assets and inheritances.
Now they had a plan and a commitment by all three to implement it so the story of the Visit is concluded.
I have decided to write the follow up story in due course.