Part 10              

In the months that followed, Chris and Darcy worked hard, played hard and tripped over each other in Chris’ tiny flat. Finally, they decided that some changes needed to be made. The journey to the clubs where Chris played was too long and their flat was too small. Moving to a bigger place, nearer to the venues was the obvious answer. Of course it meant that Darcy would have to give up her job at the hotel, but she would find something else.

Doors open when another’s closed

Ensuring new life will evolve

Plan to take that perilous step

With open mind and strong resolve

For fate can be a fickle fiend

Or prove to be a forceful friend

What they found was very different to what they expected. Darcy secured a job with tied accommodation. She could not believe her luck ...and it was only a few miles from the town where most of Chris’ work was based.

She was to be housekeeper to a small country mansion. Its sole occupant, Mrs Judd, an elderly lady, who had two little dogs called Fortnum and Mason. There were to be no other staff, except for a gardener who came in twice a week. Her accommodation comprised a large ground floor apartment to the rear of the house.

Stained glass entrance leads the eye

To polished oak and flagstone floors

Dressed with antique rugs below

Part panelled walls, and studded doors

In ornate hearth of fired stone 

Log fire lends a welcoming tone

Vast staircase towers overhead

An intricately carved design

‘gainst walls of richly coloured silk

A staunch yet decadent incline

Whilst moulded ceiling bears with care

A chandelier, glistening fair

The next few months were spent settling into their new life and for Darcy, getting used to her new role. Chris was busy either away, recording at the studio, or playing in the nearby town. Darcy was inclined to linger in the main house with Fortnum and Mason for company, when he was not there. Mrs Judd was a member of many associations and there would always be some meeting or another. She also played Bridge with her sister and a group of friends, so mostly Darcy had the house to herself.

Beyond great hall of style and grace

Fine quarters echo dignity

A place to visualize and dream

Of life in strict complicity

Those bygone days so arduous

When manners must be decorous

It was a beautiful house, and the dogs were great company but, after a while, Darcy missed the bustle of town and found she had too much empty time on her hands. She decided to look for a part time job to fit around her duties here.

 NB: Fortnum and Mason is the name of a high class London Department store.