Coming Monday: Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square

Their time in New Orleans was meant to be brief.  When Julian, Lord Fallbridge met Dr. Robert Halifax on the H.M.S. Hyperion, the agoraphobic aristocrat was on his way to retrieve his wayward sister and to find the precious blue diamond she had stolen.  However, upon his arrival, Julian was forced to contend with the realization that his sister had become a prostitute who sold her own child, that his beloved father was murdered at the command of his own, soon-to-die mother, that his own footman was plotting against him and, most surprising of all, that he had more than one personality living inside him.  Thankfully for the overwhelmed Julian, he had the support of his new friend, Robert, and the strength of his dominant personality, the indomitable Mr. Punch to carry him through battles with the Yellow Fever, cut-throat families, a murderous madam, am evil nanny, and even the notorious Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau.

At the end of it all, Julian had inherited the title, Duke of Fallbridge, but had retreated into the comfort of the interior of the psyche he shared with Mr. Punch.  With Punch in charge, he and Robert triumphed over their foes and, having rescued Julian's nephew, finally headed back to England to start a new life in Central London.

Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square begins several weeks after the events of Punch's Cousin.  As Punch, Julian, Colin, Dog Toby, Charles and Gerard settle into their new lives in Belgravia, their peace is quickly shattered by a summons from Prince Albert and the arrival of some new servants who may not have been a very good choice for hiring.  As rumors spread through the upper class about the strange behavior of the Duke, Mr. Punch begins to worry that he may not be suited for his new life.  Nevertheless, When Their Majesties call, one must respond.  And, so, our story begins.

Come back on Monday, April 2, 2102 for the inaugural chapter of Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square.

Coming Monday: Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square

Yesterday, with Chapter 500, Punch’s Cousin came to an end as Mr. Punch, Robert and Colin headed home to England along with Charles and Gerard as their valets.  On Monday, their adventures continue with a new online novel, Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square.  This new story will follow Mr. Punch and Robert as they begin a new life together.  Robert will return to his work as a physician while Mr. Punch will try to fit in (as the Duke of Fallbridge) in the aristocratic Victorian world of  Belgravia in Central London’s City of Westminster.  Among the first orders of business for Mr. Punch is a request to visit Prince Albert and Queen Victoria at Buckingham Palace to discuss a new project of great interest to the Prince Consort. 

Of course, Mr. Punch, aside from learning to be a father to his adopted son Colin, will need to discover a comfortable way to become the head of a posh household.  You’ll be introduced to a series of new characters in the form of the staff of the elegant No. 65 Belgrave Square.  These characters will be joined by Gamilla (whom you met in Punch’s Cousin) who will have her own struggles as a black American woman in a very different, class-divided world. 

Yesterday, I had a request to re-post the first chapter of Punch’s Cousin to show how our Mr. Punch developed from a shadowy, ominous, dangerous figure to the beloved, caring, sensitive dominant personality of the Duke of Fallbridge.  The comparison, actually, is quite interesting.  So, here it is...

As we await the launch of Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square, let’s revisit the origins of our story with the first chapter of Punch’s Cousin.  You’ll meet Julian (as the time, Lord Fallbridge) once again and recall what led him to New Orleans and his journey of self-discovery.

And, remember…if you missed any of the five hundred chapters of Punch’s Cousin, you’ll still be able to read all of them in the Chapter Archive.  

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 1

Unblinking eyes, pink where they should be white, wide and dry with the arched brows of permanent bemusement stared at Julian over a bulbous ruddy nose and gin-blossomed cheeks. Julian looked back. He couldn’t help but press his own eyes shut for a second. As the fading orange light of the evening chinked through the leaded glass panes of the tall casement windows of his room, Julian shivered—certain that those eyes which had always been still had finally blinked at him. No, not blinked. It was just one eye. It was a wink. Did those painted red lips—those lips perennially affixed in a grin—pull back into a grimace for just the tick of a clock? No, it couldn’t be.

Julian looked away. Glancing at his writing slope, he flicked his fingers at the stack of correspondence which awaited his reply. The top letter hadn’t even been opened. Sealed with red wax—the red of those lips—and stamped with the Molliner “M,” Julian knew what the letter said without opening it. No doubt, it was a request for money from his uncle. With Julian’s father in France, all of the Molliners in England had silently appointed Julian the financial head of the family. Their requests for funds would have to be addressed to Julian. After all, no one dared write his mother. The Duchess of Fallbridge would never offer her support to anyone outside of the peerage, especially her husband’s family.

Julian’s heart pounded. He fiddled nervously with the diamond ring he always wore on his left index finger. Dealing with people—even via a letter—was too much for him to stomach. When had he become so fearful? At first, staying tucked away in his rooms at Fallbridge Hall seemed like a natural break from the nervous bustle of London. He had come to the country for the air and the bucolic landscapes. That was all—wasn’t it? He’d return to the city one day. He used to interact with people—not comfortably, no—but, he could do it. Now, even the idea of writing a letter upset him.

Again, Julian felt the eyes on him.

“It’s just a puppet.” Julian sided, looking up again at Punch’s large, waxy head. The puppet grinned at Julian from beneath the arc of his puffy, tasseled red hat.

“Good evening, Punch.” Julian mumbled at the figure.

The puppet continued to stare as a shadow passed over it—surely from the play of some cloud over the dimming sun. Its stubby, empty hands seemed lost without the little club it had once used to bludgeon Judy.

Julian sighed. Without even looking at it, he tore open the letter from his uncle. He forced himself to read it.

“You may be Lord Fallbridge, but you are a Molliner first.” Julian read. He could hear his uncle’s voice.

Julian opened the writing slope and put the letter, along with the others which sat unopened, inside. He closed the slope with a loud click.

“Tomorrow.” Julian thought.

Did the puppet move?

His head darting up, Julian once again looked to the thing that always sat in the curio at the far end of the chamber.

“A trick of the light…” Julian thought, drawing in a breath.

A knock at the door startled Julian, causing him to jump in his seat, almost upsetting the writing slope.

Surely, it was one of the housemaids come to tend to the grate. The fire was dying. Or, perhaps, it was the footman come to trim the lamps. Tea wouldn’t be for another half an hour.

The door opened.

“Yes, Jackson.” Julian said, trying to mask his surprise at seeing the butler.

“Lord Fallbridge,” Jackson said in his gentle way, “Her Grace wishes you to take tea with her in the drawing room.”

Julian nodded slowly.

“Shall I come for you?” Jackson asked, awaiting a response.

“No, thank you, Jackson.” Julian forced himself to smile. “I know the way,” he joked.

“Very good, sir.” Jackson replied before retreating from the room.

Julian rose and walked toward the window. As he did, he passed the curio—filled with his many artifacts and prizes…and Punch.

His mother never took tea with him. Never. She preferred to be alone or, on occasion, to take tea with Barbara.

Julian shivered again.

He glanced over his shoulder. There was Punch—grinning, not blinking.

“It’s merely a puppet.” Julian muttered again. He recalled the day—thirty years before—when his father made such a show of purchasing the puppet from that toy shop in Covent Garden after Julian had been so enchanted with the puppet show they’d seen earlier that morning. “Just a memento from my youth.”

Julian walked to the bell-pull to ring for Arthur—the footman, Julian’s valet.

“Her Grace wishes…” Julian muttered.

If his mother wanted him to take tea with her, how could he argue? No one argued with Pauline, the Duchess of Fallbridge. But, if he was to take tea with his mother, he’d have to go down looking his best.

Julian had a feeling his mother was already displeased. He didn’t want to risk further upset by appearing less than perfect.

Julian suddenly thought he’d heard someone laugh. He looked at Punch. Was the smile different? Could it have laughed? No, it was just the scraping of the door as Arthur entered.

Surely, that’s all it was.

Coming Soon: Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square

On July 26, 2010, I introduced readers of Stalking the Belle Époque to a new online novel Punch’s Cousin.  The story, as of this week entering 497 chapters, is set in 1852 and follows the life of Julian, Duke of Fallbridge and his companion Dr. Robert Halifax.  Julian, a jeweler for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, has traveled to New Orleans in search of his sister, Lady Barbara, who fled England with her illegitimate baby and the family’s priceless blue diamond—looking to sell her child and begin a misguided life as a prostitute.

Along the way, Julian discovered quite a lot about himself—most especially that within him, another personality (or personalities) dwelled.  The dominant personality—in this time before Dissociative Identity Disorder was understood—was that of Mr. Punch, the long-beloved puppet anti-hero who this year will celebrate his 350th birthday.  As a boy, Julian’s only friend was his puppet figure of Mr. Punch.  Years of confiding in the puppet caused agoraphobic and abused Julian to develop an alternate personality called “Mr. Punch” who was stronger and braver (albeit a little rougher and more prone to hitting).


Throughout their journey, Mr. Punch/Julian and Robert endured many tortures at the hands of a murderous “madam” called Iolanthe Evangeline, Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, and an insidiously evil man named Edward Cage.  When Punch/Julian began to develop a relationship with his sister’s son, he realized that he wanted to raise the child as his own.  However, Mr. Cage had already purchased the child from Iolanthe Evangeline.  Punch, Robert, Robert’s family and their servants then battled to rescue the boy as well as regain the missing diamond.

This week, with Chapter 497, we’ll begin the conclusion of their long battle. Punch’s Cousin will conclude with Chapter 500 on March 29, 2012.  All five hundred chapters will remain permanently in the Punch’s Cousin Chapter Archive which includes two summaries up to Chapters 100 and 200 respectively.

In its place, a new story will debut on April 2, 2012—Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square.  The story will begin with the return of the Duke of Fallbridge/Mr. Punch and Dr. Robert Halifax to London where they will take up residence in Julian’s posh London townhouse in Belgrave Square.  Though a Duke, Julian is a favorite of the Queen, and therefore, will be required to return to his post as an advisor to Their Majesties, Victoria and Albert—working with Prince Albert especially on his many jewelry projects.

Life in the Royal Court will not be easy for Julian/Mr. Punch who will continue to struggle with the personalities within their shared body.  They’ll also have to contend with unexpected prejudices and rivalries as they struggle to maintain their place in the Court without losing their right to live free and comfortable lives.

I look forward to sharing this story with all of you.  I have been so touched with all of the support I’ve received from Punch’s Cousin’s many faithful readers.  Punch’s Cousin had many literary and plot ties to my first novel,The Garnet Red.  So, if you enjoyed Mr. Punch’s time in New Orleans, The Garnet Red would be a fun read for you.

I’m also very glad to continue the story of our Mr. Punch, Julian and Robert.  I’ve grown very fond of Mr. Punch—my version of the character.  Since I’m one of the few “Punch & Judy Men” in the U.S., it’s been a joy for me to adapt the traditional puppet story into this work and I am quite excited to see how his tale continues.

I hope you all enjoy the conclusion of Punch’s Cousin.  I assure you that Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square will be a gripping and emotional ride that will keep you coming back for more.  This story, like the last, will be posted every day except Sunday.  Look for more information in coming days…

Announcing Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square

On July 26, 2010, I introduced readers of Stalking the Belle Époque to a new online novel Punch’s Cousin.  The story, as of this week entering 491 chapters, is set in 1852 and follows the life of Julian, Duke of Fallbridge and his companion Dr. Robert Halifax.  Julian, a jeweler for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, has traveled to New Orleans in search of his sister, Lady Barbara, who fled England with her illegitimate baby and the family’s priceless blue diamond—looking to sell her child and begin a misguided life as a prostitute. 

Along the way, Julian discovered quite a lot about himself—most especially that within him, another personality (or personalities) dwelled.  The dominant personality—in this time before Dissociative Identity Disorder was understood—was that of Mr. Punch, the long-beloved puppet anti-hero who this year will celebrate his 350^th birthday.  As a boy, Julian’s only friend was his puppet figure of Mr. Punch.  Years of confiding in the puppet caused agoraphobic and abused Julian to develop an alternate personality called “Mr. Punch” who was stronger and braver (albeit a little rougher and more prone to hitting).

Throughout their journey, Mr. Punch/Julian and Robert endured many tortures at the hands of a murderous “madam” called Iolanthe Evangeline, Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, and an insidiously evil man named Edward Cage.  When Punch/Julian began to develop a relationship with his sister’s son, he realized that he wanted to raise the child as his own.  However, Mr. Cage had already purchased the child from Iolanthe Evangeline.  Punch, Robert, Robert’s family and their servants then battled to rescue the boy as well as regain the missing diamond.

This week, with Chapter 491, we’ll begin the conclusion of their long battle. Punch’s Cousin will conclude with Chapter 500 on March 29, 2012.  All five hundred chapters will remain permanently in the Punch’s Cousin Chapter Archive which includes two summaries up to Chapters 100 and 200 respectively.

In its place, a new story will debut on April 2, 2012—Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square.  The story will begin with the return of the Duke of Fallbridge/Mr. Punch and Dr. Robert Halifax to London where they will take up residence in Julian’s posh London townhouse in Belgrave Square.  Though a Duke, Julian is a favorite of the Queen, and therefore, will be required to return to his post as an advisor to Their Majesties, Victoria and Albert—working with Prince Albert especially on his many jewelry projects.

Life in the Royal Court will not be easy for Julian/Mr. Punch who will continue to struggle with the personalities within their shared body.  They’ll also have to contend with unexpected prejudices and rivalries as they struggle to maintain their place in the Court without losing their right to live free and comfortable lives.

I look forward to sharing this story with all of you.  I have been so touched with all of the support I’ve received from Punch’s Cousin’s many faithful readers.  Punch’s Cousin had many literary and plot ties to my first novel,The Garnet Red.  So, if you enjoyed Mr. Punch’s time in New Orleans, The Garnet Red would be a fun read for you.

I’m also very glad to continue the story of our Mr. Punch, Julian and Robert.  I’ve grown very fond of Mr. Punch—my version of the character.  Since I’m one of the few “Punch & Judy Men” in the U.S., it’s been a joy for me to adapt the traditional puppet story into this work and I am quite excited to see how his tale continues.

I hope you all enjoy the conclusion of Punch’s Cousin.  I assure you that Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square will be a gripping and emotional ride that will keep you coming back for more.  This story, like the last, will be posted every day except Sunday.  Look for more information in coming days…

Announcing Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square

On July 26, 2010, I introduced readers of Stalking the Belle Époque to a new online novel Punch’s Cousin.  The story, as of this week entering 485 chapters, is set in 1852 and follows the life of Julian, Duke of Fallbridge and his companion Dr. Robert Halifax.  Julian, a jeweler for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, has traveled to New Orleans in search of his sister, Lady Barbara, who fled England with her illegitimate baby and the family’s priceless blue diamond—looking to sell her child and begin a misguided life as a prostitute. 

Along the way, Julian discovered quite a lot about himself—most especially that within him, another personality (or personalities) dwelled.  The dominant personality—in this time before Dissociative Identity Disorder was understood—was that of Mr. Punch, the long-beloved puppet anti-hero who this year will celebrate his 350^th birthday.  As a boy, Julian’s only friend was his puppet figure of Mr. Punch.  Years of confiding in the puppet caused agoraphobic and abused Julian to develop an alternate personality called “Mr. Punch” who was stronger and braver (albeit a little rougher and more prone to hitting).

Throughout their journey, Mr. Punch/Julian and Robert endured many tortures at the hands of a murderous “madam” called Iolanthe Evangeline, Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, and an insidiously evil man named Edward Cage.  When Punch/Julian began to develop a relationship with his sister’s son, he realized that he wanted to raise the child as his own.  However, Mr. Cage had already purchased the child from Iolanthe Evangeline.  Punch, Robert, Robert’s family and their servants then battled to rescue the boy as well as regain the missing diamond.

This week, with Chapter 485, we’ll begin the conclusion of their long battle.  Punch’s Cousin will conclude with Chapter 500.  All five hundred chapters will remain permanently in the Punch’s Cousin Chapter Archive which includes two summaries up to Chapters 100 and 200 respectively.

In its place, a new story will debut—Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square.  The story will begin with the return of the Duke of Fallbridge/Mr. Punch and Dr. Robert Halifax to London where they will take up residence in Julian’s posh London townhouse in Belgrave Square.  Though a Duke, Julian is a favorite of the Queen, and therefore, will be required to return to his post as an advisor to Their Majesties, Victoria and Albert—working with Prince Albert especially on his many jewelry projects.

Life in the Royal Court will not be easy for Julian/Mr. Punch who will continue to struggle with the personalities within their shared body.  They’ll also have to contend with unexpected prejudices and rivalries as they struggle to maintain their place in the Court without losing their right to live free and comfortable lives.

I look forward to sharing this story with all of you.  I have been so touched with all of the support I’ve received from Punch’s Cousin’s many faithful readers.  Punch’s Cousin had many literary and plot ties to my first novel, The Garnet Red.  So, if you enjoyed Mr. Punch’s time in New Orleans, The Garnet Red would be a fun read for you.

I’m also very glad to continue the story of our Mr. Punch, Julian and Robert.  I’ve grown very fond of Mr. Punch—my version of the character.  Since I’m one of the few “Punch & Judy Men” in the U.S., it’s been a joy for me to adapt the traditional puppet story into this work and I am quite excited to see how his tale continues.

I hope you all enjoy the conclusion of Punch’s Cousin.  I assure you that Mr. Punch of Belgrave Square will be a gripping and emotional ride that will keep you coming back for more.  This story, like the last, will be posted every day except Sunday.  Look for more information in coming days…

Punch’s Cousin, Chapter 454

“Name?” A gruff ship’s officer asked.

Affecting his best imitation of the Duke of Fallbridge, Mr. Punch smiled and responded. “Julian Pulcinella and party.”

“Pulcinella?” The man narrowed his eyes, studying his passenger list. “Italian?”

“Yes.”

“You don’t sound Italian.”

“I was raised in England.” Mr. Punch responded.

“Papers?”

“Of course,” Punch nodded, producing the paperwork which Adrienne had so expertly forged for all of them.

“All these folks with you?”

“Yes.” Punch nodded. “Roberto il Dottore—the gentleman to my right with the dark hair. This is,” he pointed to Cecil, “the Tussaud family. Cedric and his wife Cecilia and their child Frederick.”

The officer looked back and forth from the paperwork to the group—tired and hungry who stood before them.

“Behind me,” Punch continued, unrattled, “is my man, Carlo. He is holding my son, Arlecchino.”

“What’s with him?” The officer pointed to Gerard. “We don’t want no sick folk not with the fever spreadin’ here.”

“He’s not ill.” Punch continued, still unfazed. “He was in an accident. He fell down a flight of stairs. He’s my companion’s man, Gregory.”

“It all checks.” The officer grumbled. “What about the Africans?”

“These are…” Punch began.

“I don’t need their names. Just how many.”

In his head, Punch quickly counted Marjani, Gamilla and Columbia. “Three. I trust there will be space for them.”

“Sure, but they gotta stay below decks.”

“Of course,” Punch nodded. “May I keep my dog with me in the cabin?”

The man frowned.

“I’ll take full responsibility.” Punch smiled charmingly.

“Fine.” The man growled.

Punch wanted to whoop with glee, but he kept his reserve.

“Pulcinella and son are in Cabin 17 A. Dottore is in the adjoining 17 B. Mr. and Mrs. Tussaud are in 19 A and B.” The man continued curtly. “Your valets will be below in number 92.”

“What of…”

“The Africans can find a place in steerage.”

Punch looked nervously over his shoulder at Gamilla, Marjani and Columbia. Marjani smiled reassuringly.

“They will be treated well?” Punch asked.

“Sure.” The man laughed.

Punch began to argue, but Robert gently touched his elbow.

“Let’s get to our cabins, then.” Robert nodded.

“The Africans gotta go down now.” The officer barked.

Marjani spoke up. “We’ll find our way, Sir.”

“But…” Punch blurted out.

“What?” The officer snarled.

“I think Mr. Pulcinella is concerned because these women are invaluable servants and we do require their services. We can’t lose access to them.”

“They can serve ya.” The officer shrugged. “But, they gotta stay out of the saloons and reception areas.”

“We know what cabins you’re in.” Marjani nodded. “We will find you, Sir.”

Punch smiled weakly.

“Go on, then.” The officer ordered.

Punch nodded, walking away. He took a deep breath as he watched Marjani—Columbia’s hand in hers—hurry off behind a group of other African people.

“I hope they’ll be safe.” Punch whispered to Robert.

“They will.” Robert responded, picking up Toby. “If anyone can handle anything it’s Marjani. She’ll look after Columbia and Gamilla. Don’t fret.”

“That were awful.” Punch spoke as himself now that they were away from the officer.

“Indeed.” Cecil shook his head.

“However, we managed it.” Robert smiled. “Thanks to Adrienne’s handiwork.”

“I’ll never remember all of our false names.” Adrienne said quietly.

“No need.” Robert said. “We’ll keep to ourselves now that we’re on board. Just remember that, until we reach England, your family name is Tussaud.”

“I don’t see why we couldn’t have gone with the name we originally discussed.” Cecil mumbled. “I don’t like to be reminded of that Tussaud woman.”

“Because you don’t look like a Scaramouche.” Robert chuckled.

“And you look like a ‘Dottore’?”

“Apparently I do.” Robert grinned.

Charles followed them, carrying Colin and Gerard limped at a distance behind.

Punch stopped and studied Gerard.

“Here, Charles. Why don’t you give me Colin? You can help Gerry down to your bunks, then.”

“I’m fine, Sir.” Gerry croaked.

“Mr. Pu…Pulcinella is correct.” Robert paused. “Charles, do take Gerry. I’ll be down to check on your shortly.”

“Oh, you musn’t, Sir.” Gerard shook his head painfully. “It’s not fitting.”

“Yes, it is.” Robert said firmly.

“Yes, Sir.”

Charles handed the baby to Mr. Punch. His face, for once, was relaxed and peaceful—content knowing they were on their way from New Orleans.

“I’ve got you, Gerard.” Charles smiled.

Gerard looked at Charles cautiously.

“I’m sorry I was so rough with you in the past. I want for us to be friends now.” Charles whispered.

Gerard nodded. “I’d like that.”

“Good.” Robert said proudly. “Go on.”

The two men went off in search of their quarters.

“Here we are,” Adrienne pointed down the corridor.

“We done it!” Punch said, trembling with excitement.

“You see,” Robert smiled, putting his arm around Punch’s shoulders. “In an hour we’ll be at sea, on our way home.”

“You was right, Chum.” Mr. Punch answered, his eyes filling with happy tears.

“Now, nothing can stop us.” Adrienne exclaimed.

Little did she know, but on the docks, a group gazed upon the ship.

“They’re already aboard.” Giovanni sighed.

“No matter,” Barbara Allen responded.

“Really, Barbara?” Ulrika grunted. “Do you think we can just charge aboard with no papers?”

“We don’t need papers.” Marie Laveau said stiffly.

“Miss Laveau is right.” Odo added.

“Keep quiet, Odo.” Marie spat.

“Just do as I suggested,” Barbara said. “And, we’ll all get what we deserve.”



Did you miss Chapters 1-453? If so, you can read them here. Come back on Monday, February 6, 2012 for Chapter 455 of Punch’s Cousin.

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 450

Odo crept into the kitchen of Edward Cage’s Royal Street House. Seeing that the kitchen was empty, he sighed with relief and made his way toward the stairs so that he could retreat quietly to his attic room.

“Stop there, Odo.” Zettie growled from the dining room door.

Odo turned and grinned—his yellow teeth slick with his sense of self-satisfaction. “Mornin’ Zettie.”

“Don’t smile at me, Little Odo.” Zettie spat. “Where the hell have you been all this time?”

“Out.”

“Where?”

“I don’t answer to no parlor maid, Zettie.” Odo frowned.

“Maybe usually, Odo, but not today. I been runnin’ ‘round this house for the last day. I got two folk needin’ nursin’! Mr. Cage done been shot and Mrs. Cage is still all ate up with fever. Not to mention Miss Ulrika and her guest want feedin’ and Orman needs tendin’. And, where’s our houseboy?”

“I ain’t a houseboy!” Odo shot back. “I’m a butler.”

“Fine. Then, act like one!”

“I gotta get some rest.”

“Oh no you don’t.” Zettie shouted. “You gotta help me. But, first, you’re gonna go upstairs and look Mr. Cage square in the eye and tell him where you been!”

“Not yet.”

“He’s been askin’ for ya every few minutes, boy.” Zettie narrowed her eyes.

“Why?”

“Why you think?” Zettie grumbled.

“He’s still angry, ain’t he? ‘Bout the baby. I done tried my best for the keep that chil’ here. I done took him from the house an’ all to keep that boy away from the Duke…”

“He don’t blame you for none of that.” Zettie growled. “You and your high and mighty ideas ‘bout how important ya are. Mr. Cage knows you’re just a house worker. He ain’t got no grand ideas ‘bout how big you are, Odo.”

“Then, what’s he want?”

“Dressin’ and cleanin’ for one!” Zettie shouted. “Ain’t fit for me to be washing the master’s naked body! That’s man’s work! ‘Sides, I got Mrs. Cage for to worry ‘bout.”

“So he ain’t angry at all? He don’t blame me for losin’ the baby?”

“’Course not! Odo—you ain’t on the front of everyone’s mind all the time, you know. You’re just a tool here, boy. You ain’t more special than a fire poker.”

“Did he say that?”

“Odo, he ain’t sayin’ nothin’. Just, ‘Where’s Odo?’ He’s half mad with pain anyway!”

“Still, you’d think…”

“No!” Zettie stamped her foot on the ground. “No more talkin’! Go on up and tend to the master. I gotta take a tray up to Miss Ulrika. She done rung for me three times!”

“Miss Ulrika’s here?”

“Got in ‘bout an hour ago. Got that Italian man with her. She looks all worn out. God knows what she been up to. What’s it to you. Miss Ulrika ain’t you’re responsibility!”

“It’s just I gotta talk to her.”

“Oh, no you ain’t!” Zettie ordered.

“I got a message for her.” Odo said.

“Well, give it to me, then.” Zettie snapped.

“I can’t. Ain’t written down.” Odo argued.

“Then, tell me what it is and I’ll tell her.” Zettie replied, her patience at its end.

“I can’t. Gotta tell her myself.”

Before Zettie could say another word, an annoyed voice bellowed down the rear stairs.

“Really!” Ulrika screamed. “What does it take to get some food! We’re starved!”

Thumping down the stairs, Ulrika almost bumped into Odo.

“What is going on down here?” She demanded.

“I’m comin’, Miss. Terrible sorry, we got a lot of trouble here today. I’m on my way.”

“See that you are!” Ulrika snapped. She turned to Odo. “And, just what are you looking at you little black toad?”

“I got a message for you, Miss.” Odo whispered.



“No, you ain’t!” Zettie hissed. “You leave Miss Ulrika be and let her go back to her guest. I’ll be up just now, Miss.” She added the last line directly to Ulrika.

“It’s from Barbara Allen.” Odo interrupted.

“Go on,” Ulrika narrowed her eyes.

“It’s ‘bout the diamond.” Odo smiled.



Did you mis Chapters 1-449? If so, you can read them here.

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 448

Marie Laveau moaned as another passerby pitched a half-eaten apple at her. Tied to a hitching post in front of Iolanthe Evangeline’s Bawdy House, Marie shivered at the sneering faces who mocked her.

“Iolanthe!” she screamed—partly from fear, partly from anger and embarrassment and partly from the burning pain she felt in her abdomen.

Iolanthe, however, didn’t come. Marie’s screams were met by Mala who shuffled out of the house toward Marie.

“Untie me!” Marie pleaded.

“What you think I come for to do?” Mala grumbled.

“How could she do this to me?” Marie gasped as Mala untied her.

“Don’t rightly know.” Mala shrugged. “She wants you back in the house.”

Mala helped Marie to her feet and, in an unusually compassionate move on her part, helped the woman limp into the house.

Iolanthe descended the sparkling mahogany staircase, grinning with each step.

“You sow!” Marie growled weakly.

“I know,” Iolanthe winked. “Mala, leave us.”

Mala nodded and disappeared to the dark corners of the house which served as her habitat.

“Come into the drawing room,” Iolanthe smiled at Marie.

“Why?”

“So you can rest.” Iolanthe replied plainly. “You’ve just lost a child, Marie. I know how exhausting that can be. I’ve lost three.”

“You done this to me.” Marie began to sob. “You killed my baby—with poison--and then you put me out on the street to be mocked!”

“And you ruined my hands.” Iolanthe smiled. “In my business, a woman needs her hands.”

“So, you murder my child and then humiliate me?”

“Yes.” Iolanthe nodded watching as Marie painfully settled onto a richly upholstered chair. “I’m a monster. Didn’t you know?”

Marie wiped her eyes.

“You got to thinkin’ you were high and mighty, Marie. You got to thinkin’ that you were better than me, that you were able to make a fool of ol’ Iolanthe. Ain’t no one can get the better of me, Marie Laveau. No one. And, I don’t want you thinkin’ that they can.”

“Fine, Iolanthe.” Marie whispered. “You win.”

“I know.” Iolanthe chuckled. “So, now that I’ve shown you that I am the better of the two of us, I trust you’ll cooperate with me.”

“What have I got now that you could use?” Marie whimpered. “When you killed the child inside me, you took away my power—my future.”

“Oh, now, you’ve still got plenty of power, Marie Laveau.” Iolanthe clucked her tongue. “I just want you to remember that anything you got is mine and mine alone.”

“I want to go home.” Marie sobbed.

“And, you will.” Iolanthe sighed. “But, not until you pledge your fidelity to me.”

“Why?” Marie screamed.

“This very day, the Duke of Fallbridge is about to board a ship on his way back to England. That man has caused me far too much trouble. Just a few weeks ago, I had made a brilliant arrangement. I was to have a new girl—a fine English lady, a beautiful diamond and money in my purse from giving Edward Cage a child. What have I got now? Burned hands, no diamond, no money, an angry Edward Cage, and no English girl. As I have just shown you, I don’t like when folk try to get the better of me. I want what I’m due, and now that you’re mine, you’re going to help me get it.”

“How?”

“Cooperation, Marie. Cooperation.”



Did you miss Chapters 1-447? If so, you can read them here. Come back on Monday, January 30, 2012 for Chapter 448 of Punch’s Cousin.

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 447

Mama Routhe wrung her hands nervously as she waited.  Charles seemed to be taking longer than he had promised, and she hoped that this young white man would be true to his word, or, at least, smart enough to remember what he’d said he was going to do.  She comforted herself with the thought that he was the Duke of Fallbridge’s man and that the Duke, while somewhat odd, would not have hired an idiot to attend him.

After what seemed a sticky eternity, Mama finally heard shouting from outside the house.  She knew immediately that the she had been right to put her faith in Charles.

“Open up!”  A gruff man shouted as he pounded on the door.

More time passed and voices were raised, both masculine and feminine.

Finally, after another eternity, the door to the room in which Mama had been held was unlocked and swung open as Young Marie entered.

“Come with me,”  Marie Laveau’s namesake daughter commanded.

“Why?”  Mama asked innocently.  “What’s happening?”

“It’s the authorities.  The city inspector.  He says since the fire the house may not be safe and they got to inspect it to make sure it ain’t gonna fall down around us.  They need all of us out for a spell while they look around.”

“What about your ma?”  Mama Routhe asked.

“Mind your business!”  Young Marie snapped nervously.  “I know Mama wouldn’t want no city people pokin’ around the house, but I also know she’d be  terrible riled up to come home and find a notice on the door.  I figure if we cooperate, they’ll leave us alone.”

Mama Routhe nodded.

“Now, you listen to me.”  Young Marie continued.  “You and I are goin’ out in the alley.  You’re not to talk to them city men.  You’re not to say a word.  Do you understand?”

Mama nodded again.

As she followed Young Marie, she smiled.  Charles had kept his word.  He went and got the fire marshal just as he said he would.  She knew he’d be waiting for her in the alley.  She said a prayer quickly, hoping that the next part of their plan would go as smoothly as the first.

Mama Routhe walked past the men from the city without saying a word.  They didn’t pay her any mind at all.  Why would they?  She dutifully followed Young Marie into the alley.  Marie pointed to a crate, indicating that she wanted Mama to sit.  The young woman leaned against a wall and stared at Mama.

“I don’t know what my mother wants with the likes of you.”  Young Marie sniffed.  “But, she done tol’ me to make sure I don’t let you out of my sight.”

“Good thinking,”  Charles said as he approached, startling Young Marie.

“What you want?” the girl snarled.  “I know who you are!”

“I figured you would.”  Charles smiled.  “Now, back away and let me take this woman with me.”

“No.”  Young Marie laughed.

“You’ll want to do as I say.”  Charles said firmly.

“What and have my mother whup me?  I don’t think so.”

“Your mother isn’t going to ‘whup’ anyone.”  Charles shook his head.

“Oh really?”  Young Marie laughed.  “Why’s that?”

“It would be rather difficult for her to do considering where she is.”  Charles continued.

“What you mean?”  Young Marie asked.

“When I ran to fetch the marshal, I noticed your mother.”

“Huh?”

“Yes, she’s tied up outside of Iolanthe Evangeline’s house.”  Charles shrugged.  She seems to have blood all down the front of her gown.” 

“What?”

“Looked to me as if Iolanthe was inviting people to throw rubbish at her.”

“You’re lyin’!”  Young Marie growled.

“Am I?”  Charles winked.

Did you miss Chapters 1-446?  If so, you can read them here.  

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 444

Charles wandered toward the docks. With each step, he felt more despondent. Should he have left Barbara? He had long ago made peace with the fact that she didn’t love him—at least, not in the way that he loved her. Still, wasn’t just being near her enough?
He thought about his mother and father. They had been very much in love with one another. He could recall many evenings when he and Giovanni were small. The family would gather in the central courtyard of their modest home in Naples. Under the sparking stars, they would listen to the sounds of the night. Sometimes his father would tell the two boys stories. Sometimes, their mother would sing softly. Other times, they would sit quietly and simply enjoy being together. No matter how naughty Giovanni had been during the day, the evenings were peaceful. Charles attributed that to the love his parents shared. He could see them seated in that courtyard, holding hands—each night. Even when Giovanni grew into the monster that he was, his parents—despite their grief and guilt—still found comfort in one another, in the respect and affection that they shared.

That—Charles thought—was what he wanted to have with Barbara. But, he knew that could never be. Still, he was beside himself with pain knowing that he had left her alone in the cold, outside of Big Ollie’s shop.

Where would he go?

He had said he would return to the Duke of Fallbridge. But, would the Duke take him back? Charles had not only left his post without a word, he had betrayed the Duke by going off with his errant sister. Worse still, Charles had truly been insufferable to the Duke. At best he was rude, but it wasn’t only that. He had mocked the man. Certainly the Duke was mad, but it was a harmless sort of madness which made the aristocratic gentleman all the more generous and kind.

“If only I had understood that before,” Charles said aloud as he walked.

Yes, the Duke would take him back. Despite his oddness, the Duke of Fallbridge was nothing if not forgiving. However, Charles thought, the Halifaxes would never trust him again. Dr. Halifax would always look at him with that disapproving look—his light blue eyes cold and suspicious.

Charles sighed as his boots clomped on the wood of the docks. He only had one choice. He’d have to find a place on a ship. Maybe he could go back to Italy or the Netherlands. All he knew was that he had to get away from Barbara or he’d forever be going back to her. Yes, she would haunt him forever, but at least he would not be tempted to seek her out. Furthermore, he knew he would never feel safe until he was separated from his brother by a large body of water.

Charles looked around the docks, hoping to find someone he could approach about a position, no matter how modest. He was quite shocked, however, to see the Duke of Fallbridge standing with Dr. Halifax at a distance from the rest of their companion.

Cecil Halifax was the first to spot Charles.

Charles thought about running off as Cecil approached him, but he knew it was no good.

Nodding politely, he greeted Mr. Halifax.

“So, you’ve come back to us?” Cecil glared.

“Not intentionally, Sir.” Charles replied. “I didn’t know you were here.”

“Is that so?” Cecil raised an eyebrow.

“Yes, Sir.” Charles nodded.

“Have you gotten that woman out of your system?” Cecil asked.

“I don’t think I’ll ever not love her, Sir.” Charles answered honestly. “However, I recognize that I cannot be with her.”

“Come with me,” Cecil ordered.

“Why, Sir?”

“I want you to speak with His Grace.”

“I don’t think that would be for the best, Sir.” Charles responded.

“No?” Cecil smiled. “What will you do with yourself?”

“Sir?”

“Don’t you wish to take your position back?”

“I don’t dare ask, Sir.”

“The fact of the matter is, Charles, we need you.” Cecil answered bluntly.

“Sir?”

“If you’ve truly come to your senses, His Grace needs a valet. Our man, Gerard, has been injured and we need someone to look after the Duke aboard the ship. You did well enough with him. I trust you’ll continue to do so—providing you can keep your attitude in line.”

“I would, Sir, if you want me back.”

“It’s not that I want you back. It’s not for me to say. I only know that we need someone and, somehow, Providence has seen fit to return you to us. The decision isn’t mine to make, but His Grace should have the opportunity to decide. He’s owed that, don’t you think?”

“I owe him much more, Sir.”

“Well, here’s your chance to repay your debt.”



Did you miss Chapters 1-443? If so, you can read them here.

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 442

“Over my dead body!” Cecil bellowed after Mr. Punch and Robert explained that they wanted to make sure that Mrs. Routhe was safe.

“Just hear us out.” Robert began.

“No!” Cecil spat. His loud voice not only attracted the attention of the other members of their party, but also some of the wind-dried men who stood along the docks. “I will not see any member of this family leave here. Mr. Punch, didn’t you and I already discuss this? I thought you understood.”

“I do.” Punch spoke up. “But, I also…”

“Not a chance!” Cecil growled. “Now, you listen to me, if I have to bind the two of you to that post there I will do it! No one is going anywhere!”

“Cecil’s correct,” Adrienne interrupted, walking over with Fuller in her arms.

“But, Mrs. Routhe…” Punch started.

“She’ll be jus’ fine.” Marjani said, joining the group.

“You of all people should want to see that for yourself, you should.” Punch’s eyes widened.

“Sir,” Marjani shook her head. “Mama done been good to me always. But, she’d be the first one to tell ya that you gotta look after your own family first. Now, I know her. She’s a strong woman. Ain’t nothin’ gonna keep her down—not even Marie Laveau.”

“You saw what she did to Gerry,” Punch said quickly. “Don’t you think she’d do the same or worse to Mrs. Routhe?”

“I don’t.” Marjani replied. “See, Mama’s like me. Marie may want to do her harm, but she knows she can’t—not really.”

“There now,” Cecil grunted. “That’s the end of this discussion.” He narrowed his eyes. “We will not speak of it again. I won’t hear it. I will hear no more talk of Marie Laveau, Iolanthe Evangeline, voodoo or any other thing which might keep us from taking these children aboard that ship and leaving this horrible place behind!”

Robert and Mr. Punch exchanged glances.

“Do you understand?” Cecil demanded.

“Sure I do.” Punch nodded slowly. “Only, you oughn’t talk to me like that. Me nor me chum here—your brother.”

“I don’t do it out of cruelty.” Cecil answered quietly.

“I know. Only he’s your brother and you ought to be more gentle, you ought. And me, well, I know I ain’t really your brother, but you hadn’t ought to shout at me if not just because I’m your friend, but because I’m a Duke and no matter how close we are, I’m still your better.”

Punch fluttered his eyes and stepped backward, confused at what he had just said.

“Here, I didn’t mean that. I ain’t no better than no one else. Don’t know why I said it.”

“It’s true, Your Grace.” Cecil nodded, genuinely apologetic. “My Lord Duke, I am terribly sorry to have spoken to you that way. I should not have taken advantage of our intimacy in such a manner that it would have allowed me to be so disrespectful.”

“No, no.” Punch waved his hands wildly. “Forget I said it. Don’t know what I was thinkin’, I don’t.”

“Forgive me, Your Grace.” Cecil nodded again.

“I ain’t nobody’s grace.” Punch shook his head. “I’m Mr. Punch, I am. Just ‘Old Red Nose’—yer chum.”

“Whether you like it or not,” Cecil said thoughtfully, “the longer you live in this body, the more like a Duke you become.”

Robert squinted at the thought and studied Mr. Punch who caught him looking.

“I’m Mr. Punch.” Punch squawked.

“Regardless of the way you speak,” Cecil smiled. “You’re the Duke of Fallbridge. And, I am honored to call you my friend.”

“Here, you was just lookin’ out for all of us.” Punch muttered, confused.

“Will you all pardon us for a moment?” Robert asked. “I should like to speak to Mr. Punch for a moment.”

“Certainly,” Adrienne nodded as she, Cecil and Marjani returned to the rest of their party.

“That were odd, it were.” Punch shook his head when he was alone with Robert. “I didn’t mean to hurt Cecil’s feelin’s. I don’t think I’m better than anyone else.”

“It doesn’t change the fact that you’re the Duke of Fallbridge.” Robert whispered.

“I ain’t!” Punch argued. “That’s me master what I protect.”

“Is he?” Robert answered, still whispering. “I’ve noticed that the longer we go, the more like Julian you become. Maybe not in manner or in action, but in thought and deed. Who is the master now, Mr. Punch?”

“I dunno.” Punch answered nervously.

“Where is Julian?” Robert continued.

“Same place he always is.” Punch replied, thumping his chest.

“There will come a point when we must…” He paused.

“What?”

“We’re going back to England. There, you are known. The face and body that stands in front of me are those of the Duke of Fallbridge. You must be prepared, Mr. Punch. If Julian never returns to the surface, you must be prepared to be the Duke of Fallbridge.”



Did you miss Chapters 1-441? If so, you can read them here. Come back on Monday, January 23, 2011 for Chapter 443 of Punch’s Cousin.

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 441

Mr. Punch sat on the edge of the dock, his legs dangling over the side. He closed his eyes and let the salty, cold air blow against his face. For a moment, he considered shielding his borrowed visage from the elements. He had seen what wind and cold did to a man’s face—making it rough and red. And, since the Duke had entrusted the care of their shared body to Punch, he thought that Julian might not appreciate chapped cheeks and premature wrinkles. One thing His Grace was proud of was his youthful appearance. He looked much younger than his thirty and some years and the sharp, raw wind would not help his regal, delicate complexion.

Still, Punch concluded, Julian would not mind a little cold wind—just once. Besides, Punch was tired. Too tired to move at that moment. He sighed, watching the ship in the distance grow larger as it got closer.

Robert very quietly joined Mr. Punch on the edge of the dock.

“I’ve gotten Gerard settled by the fire.” Robert said softly. “Everyone is rallying.”

“Are they?” Punch asked.

“They are.” Robert smiled weakly.

“So, then, chum, everyone’ll be ready to go when the ship arrives?”

“I suppose.” Robert nodded.

“Here, that’s good news.” Punch sighed.

“Marjani has expressed concern about Mama Routhe.” Robert continued.

“I understand, I do.” Punch nodded. “I been thinkin’ ‘bout her, too.”

“She worries that Mrs. Routhe may have received the same treatment that Gerard has.”

Punch nodded.

“We do have time before the ship arrives.” Robert began.

“No.” Punch shook his head. “Ain’t nobody leavin’ here.”

Robert raised his eyebrows.

“Listen,” Punch said thoughtfully. “I know what Mama Routhe done for us. She’s been a true friend and helped when no one else would. I know, also, that we owe her our loyalty, we do. But, we also owe our loyalty to our kin. And, I ain’t gonna risk our departure. Mama Routhe looked after herself long before we got here and she’ll look after herself long after we left. I know that sounds just awful. I know, but that’s the way it’s got to be. Ain’t none of us leavin’ here. We’re all gonna stay together. Cecil once said that sometimes a man’s gotta be selfish in order to protect what he cares about most. It ain’t that I don’t care ‘bout Mrs. Routhe, but I do love this family more. I made a promise what I aim to keep. We’re getting’ on that ship to England, we are. I think Mrs. Routhe would agree with me and I hope you do, too.”

“I don’t disagree.” Robert nodded. “It’s simply that I know it concerns Marjani.”

“Concerns me, too. I don’t want that nice lady to be hurt. Only I can’t think why Marie would have hurt her, so I’m just hopin’ she’ s safe.”

“I can’t think why Marie would have done harm to Gerard.” Robert sighed.

“To send a message to us.” Punch frowned.

“And, wouldn’t she do the same to Mrs. Routhe?”

“I don’t know.” Punch snapped. “What would you have me do? I can’t leave. We gotta stay together! I can’t let you or Cecil go. We can’t risk it!”

“I’m not suggesting that…” Robert began.

“Sorry, chum.” Punch grumbled. “I know I’m bein’ terrible.”

“You’re not.” Robert smiled.

“What you think were in that bag? Did that witch curse the sea? Are we fools to get on that ship?”

“I don’t know.” Robert shook his head.

“The way I figure it,” Punch continued, “we’re gonna have danger no matter where we go, we are.”

“True.” Robert agreed.

“She’s dead, ain’t she?” Punch whispered.

“Who?”

“Mrs. Routhe.” Punch replied quietly.

“I don’t know.” Robert shook his head. “I don’t…I…I hope not.”

“We probably ought to check on her.” Punch mumbled.

“But, you just said…”

“I know what I just said.” Punch threw up his hands. “Only it don’t change the fact that a nice lady risked her life for us and we owe it to her to make sure she’s safe.”

“What happened to listening to Cecil, to being selfish for the good of the whole family?” Robert asked.

“When have I ever listened to Cecil?” Punch grinned crookedly.

Robert laughed. “And, when have I?”




Did you miss Chapters 1-440? If so, you can read them here.

Punch’s Cousin, Chapter 440

Mala limped toward the dark, gleaming door of Iolanthe Evangeline’s boudoir and knocked cautiously.

“Enter, Mala,” Iolanthe growled.

Mala opened the door slightly, poking her homely face into the room.

“What’s my little hobgoblin want?” Iolanthe asked, her voice dripping with faux sweetness.

“I done what ya asked, Miss.” Mala said.

“Come into the room, for Christ’s sake!” Iolanthe bellowed. “I can’t abide that.”

Mala hesitantly entered the room.

“Are you frightened of me, Mala?” Iolanthe grinned, smoothing the satin of her long, lavender gloves. She grimaced as she did since the fabric, soft as it was, still snagged the burns on her hands.

“No, Miss.” Mala muttered.

“Honestly?”

“Well, yes, of course I’m frightened of ya!” Mala blurted out. “Everyone is!”

“And well they should be. I don’t want you thinkin’ they shouldn’t.”

“Are…are…” Mala began.

“Yes, I’m still angry with you.” Iolanthe replied. “How dare you keep me waiting last night!”

“I’m so, so sorry, Miss.” Mala shivered.

“Well, it can’t be helped. Nevertheless, you may have helped me more than you can know. Your little games with Odo led to Marie Laveau—and, that, though you didn’t know it, was my aim in the first place. So, not only do I know where the Duke and his companions are, I’ve got Marie Laveau on her way.”

“That’s what I came up to tell ya, Miss.” Mala cleared her throat. “She done already come.”

“Wonderful,” Iolanthe grinned. “You’re forgiven.”

“Thank you, Miss.”

“But, if you ever keep me waiting again, I’ll cut off your ears and make you use them as spoons.” Iolanthe growled.

“Yes, Miss.” Mala shook.

“Now, go fetch Marie and bring her to me. Then, bring up the tea. And remember what I told you!”

“Put the solution in the teapot with the roses. And do it myself, don’t let anyone else touch it.”

“That’s right.” Iolanthe nodded. “Now, go!”

Mala shuffled off, closing the door behind her.

Iolanthe sat at her dressing table and picked up her lip rouge, delicately swiping crimson across her lips with her finger. She smiled at her own reflection, the scarlet of her cruel mouth pulling up at the corners.

“Finally,” She sighed. “All these decades will melt away and I will be forever young. With that youth, my son will thrive. This I vow.”

She giggled.

“Ah, Marie Laveau. I hope you enjoy your tea. With each sip you’ll bring me everything I ever dreamt of.”



Did you miss Chapters 1-439? If so, you can read them here.

Punch's Cousin, Chapter 437

Charles wept openly as he sat on the wet stoop outside of Big Ollie's shop. He gulped and wiped his eyes with the back of his hands. This was not the world that he had wanted to be a part of when he fled from his older brother, Giovanni.

He had imagined a sedate, quiet, proper life in service. No, he would never make the fortune that his brother had, but he would be comforted by a greater wealth--the knowledge that he would not rot in Hell alongside his closest kin as a thief and murderer. He had always thought he would meet a fine, upstanding parlor maid and marry her. They’d have children and take a little cottage near an aristocratic house, one day becoming butler and housekeeper respectively. They’d have a family, and, in turn, be part of another family—a noble family who would cherish them and protect them.

That’s not how it happened. No.

He did meet a maid--a maid who had once been a lady, but a maid nonetheless. She had once been a lady, sure, but, other things, too. He could overlook that. She was fine in her heart, she had just been led astray. No, she wasn't particularly upstanding--certainly not the sweet girl he had dreamed of, but he loved her. He couldn't help himself. She was beautiful and passionate, intelligent and cunning. Cunning? No, that was not one of the qualities he had sought.

Still, Barbara made him feel alive. She had made him ambitious again. But, she had also diverted him from his path.

"And, now, I'm sitting out in the cold while my...sweetheart...is..." Fresh tears rose in his eyes.

Charles moaned as he remembered how he had pleaded with Barbara to come with him. He looked from her face to Big Ollie’s—hers soft still, not entirely hardened by her pain; his, grotesque and drooling. He ordered her to walk out with him. He was prepared to fight the gargantuan beast who would threaten Barbara’s honor. Her honor? Well, threaten her honor again.

“I’m gonna get what I want,” Ollie grinned, licking his lips. “Big Ollie’s gonna get what he wants, or you two are goin’ to be in a heap of trouble.”

"Charles, it's of no consequence," she had replied blankly after Big Ollie explained what he wanted in return for his services. "If it will buy his silence and quicken the sale of this diamond, it's certainly worth it."

Charles shivered as he recalled Big Ollie's smirk as he escorted Barbara to the seedy little room above his office. The giant had turned and spat on the floor, looking Charles squarely in the eye. “Gonna see what you’re so protective of, little man.”

Sobs shook Charles’ lean body and he was at once hot and cold, trying not to picture the loaf-like hands of the beast on Barbara’s tender, pale skin.

The click of the door startled Charles and he wiped his nose and eyes with his sleeve.

Barbara exited, red-faced, but otherwise unfazed. "Strange creature," she shrugged. "The whole of him was…well, it was putrid. Such growths. But, it's done. He thinks he can find a buyer for the stone immediately."

She waited for Charles to reply.

"Well?" She snapped.

Angrily, Barbra took Charles' face in her hands. " What is this? Jealousy?"

"What I am feeling is not jealousy." Charles shook his head slowly.

"Probably disgust." Barbara chuckled. “I don’t blame you. If I were paying attention, I’d probably have vomited. Still…”

"You joke?"

"What else can I do?" Barbara shrugged. "I have no choice. Perhaps if you were a little more forceful..."

"What?" Charles' eyes widened.

"Well, I have to do everything myself." Barbara stretched her back. “Meanwhile, you cower and examine your conscience which is, frankly, an awful waste of time.

"I see." Charles grunted.

"Do you disagree?" Barbara nodded.

“I don’t know.” Charles replied.

“Listen to me. We cannot be diverted from our goal.” She sat down on the stoop next to Charles. “I apologize if I was harsh just now. I suppose it’s my nature. I’ve always been this way—cold. I take after Mother. Julian, the poor fool, has always been like father. You know, when I was a child—well, you know Julian’s quite a bit older than I—he wasn’t completely mad then. He was actually rather sweet in a sickening sort of way. He’d try to hold me and rock me and sing. He’d make me dolls and bring me little cuttings from gemstones that had been delivered to him. He’d do anything I asked of him. One day, I ordered him to sing for me. The Ballad of Barbara Allen. You know it, of course?”

“Yes.” Charles nodded slowly, his nose running.

“Obviously I loved the song. It made me laugh. That day, as Julian sang of Barbara Allen’s cruelty to Jimmy Grove, I roared with laughter. Julian stopped singing. He looked hurt and asked if I was laughing at him.”

“What did you say?”

“I said that I certainly was, but not exclusively. I was also laughing about the dead man in the song. Do you know what he did, my older brother, heir to the Duchy of Fallbridge?”

“I imagine he was very hurt.”

“Yes.” Barbara chuckled. “He sobbed. That’s when I knew he was different—useless just as mother had said. I didn’t know then how different he was. You know, we never talked about it, but we all knew. If it wasn’t so amusing, it would be tragic.”

“It is tragic.” Charles sniffed.

“Now? Now you have pity for him?”

“Of course.”

“Charles, I’ve listened to you a thousand times as you’ve told me how much my brother the Duke irritates you.”

“Well, yes.” Charles nodded slowly. “He does. But, through no fault of his own.”

“Honestly?” Barbara clucked. “All of his nonsense about being Mr. Punch, his rough speech and his wide-eyes.”

“He doesn’t irritate me because of those things. I realize now that I’m bothered by him because he reminds me of what I’ve lost, what’s lacking in myself. That sense of innocence about him—it’s charming, enviable, really. I wish I could have just a grain of His Grace’s sense of fairness and loyalty; just a small portion of his exuberance and the joy he takes in something as simple as the wag of a dog’s tail.”

“You call that ‘joy’? It’s idiocy or lunacy or both. It’s a weakness, a disease. He’s disgusting. He’s the disgusting one, Charles.”

“Yet, you let him raise your child.”

Barbara’s eyes sparked with anger. “Yes.” She growled. “He may be weak, but he’s clean. The boy will grow up loved—even if it is in a peculiar household.”

“Don’t you think you could have loved your son?”

“I do love him. That’s why I let him go.” Barbara snapped.

Charles gagged a bit. As Barbara grew angrier, she grew warmer and he could smell Big Ollie’s revolting aroma on her.

“Barbara,” Charles began cautiously. “I’ve overlooked quite a bit.”

“As have I.” Barbara retorted.

“I’ve overlooked,” Charles continued, “everything you’ve told me of your past. However, presently, I have an image of a woman carrying a child onto a ship. Carrying him like a cabbage or a fowl in a burlap sack.”

“I don’t deny it.”

“Yet, you feel no remorse.”

“No.” Barbara shrugged. “It’s done.”

“And, you say you loved the boy?”

“You’ll never understand.

“I understand better than you think.” Charles sighed. “You’re incapable of human love. You love only one thing—revenge. That’s…”

“Charles, before you go any further, think about what you’re saying.” Barbara warned coldly.

“I am, Barbara. I am.”







Did you miss Chapters 1-436? If so you can read them here.