Happiness is Blue and Gold by Beryl Dyson

Author:Beryl Dyson [Beryl Dyson]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781910792582
Publisher: Melrose Books
Published: 2016-03-15T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 19

Eager to hear more news of his cousin Barney, Leonardo arrived at Cavendish Row punctually at noon. Taking note of the select buildings, he commented to himself that this area was certainly different to his one-room accommodation in the grime of a London back street. He pulled the bell-pull and waited. A uniformed manservant opened the door and ushered him into an elaborately furnished sitting room, where he was first greeted by the tall, blonde-haired young man to whom he had spoken last evening, who had by his side quite an unusual sight; a dog.

Learning this young man’s name to be Blue, who then in turn introduced him to the beautiful young lady, he thought these two could be brother and sister, but found they were not. Finally, he was introduced to the handsome, disabled young man.

Memorising their names, Leonardo accepted a glass of wine, and, with total amazement, learned these two young men were indeed clowns.

Rachel left the menfolk in order to make ready for lunch.

“Tell me more of Barney,” Leonardo requested.

Happily they did so, but did not mention to him that Australia was their home.

Easy, happy conversation flowed over lunch, with intermittent laughter, something to which Rachel was not accustomed. Talk turned to Leonardo’s family. When treading the boards, as he described his work, he only managed to see his wife and family and return home to Wethergate, once a month. They had two healthy lads, but sadly their young daughter had fallen and injured her back, suffering endless pain. She was quite helpless, relying upon his wife for almost everything.

His wife tried hard to make ends meet, explaining he received very little pay for his efforts at the moment. “But at last I am becoming well known and popular.”

Now in the sitting room, Rachel smiled at Leonardo and asked to show them one of his cigar tricks.

Taking three cigars from his case, he popped them between his lips and endeavoured to light each at the same time with a single match, this done in a most comical manner. Kate had joined them. They watched, transfixed, as his nimble fingers switched the lighted cigars from one hand to the other with great dexterity, disposing of them without a trace, giving a laugh at their astonishment, only to produce each glowing cigar from his different pockets.

Soon it became time to bid them a fond adieu, in order to make ready for his evening performance. He assured them they would meet again; most certainly at Wethergate Fair.

After Leonardo had left, Kate remarked, “Didn’t even bother if he caught fire, anywhere!”

The following morning, a messenger arrived at the Coleville residence, delivering a large bouquet of carnations. Rachel, opening the accompanying envelope, read, “To a wonderful hostess and beautiful chaperone. Rachel Coleville-Grey and Miss Kate. Five seats reserved for Saturday’s evening performance.”

Signed: Leonardo.

Taking the flowers, Rachel quickly went to Kate’s room. Hardly waiting for Kate’s “Come in”, she opened the door, saying, “Look, Kate. From our new friend,” handing her the bouquet and card.

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