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Chapter Four
“A pun is a poor apology for wit.”
Private Education: A Practical Plan for the Studies of Young Ladies.
Elizabeth Appleton. 1815.
The role of governess was more formidable than first assumed – which was more or less what the crabby Miss Appleton had stated.
For upon Matilda’s first morning, between the hours of nine and ten, a reserve of patience had been required for the endless conjugation of one French verb.
From ten until eleven, unwavering enthusiasm had been crucial in order to critique twenty-two perfect curtseys.
And from eleven until midday, a certain never-ending joy had needed to be summoned to read Mr Molineux’s Introduction to the Globes, whichupon reflection was as dull as boxing.
Now, after a light luncheon together, Matilda sat at the schoolroom harpsichord whilst Chloe flipped through her music book to find her favourite song.
At least this room was a pleasant place to work, filled with two desks, a comfortable sofa, shelves of her chosen textbooks, slates and writing implements. A window overlooked lively Arlington Street, allowing today’s stodgy light to enter, and a fire flamed blithely on the opposite wall to keep the May chill at bay.
All in all, it could be worse, especially after reading of the cultivated Miss Appleton’s challenges, but apart from a roll of the eyes over letter writing, Chloe had been a delight.
Not that Matilda had past experience anyhow.
“I’ve found the words, Miss Griffin. It’s called The Pious Parson.”
“Excellent. I know plenty of religious songs. Why don’t you sing it, and I’ll join in on the harpsichord when I recognise the tune.”
Chloe stood and drew a deep breath…
“‘There was a pious parson,
Who lived in Upper Harding,
That loved his lass.
And another pretty lass.
And cherished his dice and carding.’”
Matilda frowned, fingers aloft the keys.
Chloe drew another breath.
“‘The parson went a-courting,
For lasses more he wanted,
He found a trollo–’”
“Chloe, I dislike interrupting such a fine and angelic voice but where did you learn this song?”
“Oh, a club member sings it when he’s washing.”
“I see. I’m not sure… Do you know any others, perhaps?”
“I know one to the same tune called John and Susan. Shall I sing it?”
“No! Er, let’s broaden your repertoire a little. Come sit by me, and perhaps we might learn one that could be performed at a musical soiree, for example.”
