Shared by the Highlanders by Ashe Barker

Author:Ashe Barker [Barker, Ashe]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Stormy Night Publications
Published: 2015-06-17T22:00:00+00:00

* * *

Iain is a fearless little lad, splashing about in the shallows at the edge of the loch with not the slightest regard for the dangers posed by unseen currents, aquatic livestock, or the very real prospect of sinking beneath the surface never to be seen again. In deference to the standards of modesty that prevail in this era, I settle for removing my shoes and stockings and hitching my skirt up around my knees to deliver his first lesson, and I hope to get the heavy wool reasonably dry later. I have a chance; it’s a warm day, though the balmy spring temperature has yet to make any discernible impact on the cool water.

Iain and I spend a cheerful hour or so practising the rudiments of swimming, and by the time we’re done he can manage a few splashy strokes and keep his head above water. A good start, I feel.

Mr. Drummond meanwhile is supervising the fishing trip from the relative safety of the rough wooden jetty, from which floats a rather precarious-looking raft attached by a length of rope. Both older boys are perched on the small craft, which looks to be constructed from about eight lengths of tree trunk lashed together with leather straps and more rope. It’s buoyant enough, but unsteady. They both take frequent tumbles into the loch, which seems to be part of the fun if not the main purpose of the expedition. I see no sign of any fish emerging and I fear supper will consist of the usual fare.

His lesson concluded, Iain is restless at having to remain with me on the shore. Mr. Drummond suggests a trip to investigate the progress of a litter of kittens in the stables, if I would be so kind as to remain with the older boys. I’m happy to do so, and the duo troop off.

I’m lost in my own thoughts, occasionally called upon to act as judge in the rowdy game as Duncan and Richard compete to see who can produce the biggest splash. Honours are broadly even when they at last drag themselves back to the jetty by the rope and tie the small craft up. Both are soaked so I suggest they accompany me inside to find dry clothing and perhaps some more of that delicious soup. We head back up the hillside to walk the half mile or so to the manor house.

Elspeth is at the table in the great hall, several piles of pungent herbs spread before her. She greets her soggy sons and packs them off upstairs with a maid in search of dry clothing, then invites me to take a seat at her side.

“What are you doing?” I ask.

“My medicine chest requires replenishment, as do our kitchens. Here we have lemon balm, which is helpful in the treatment of melancholy, horehound to soothe coughs, and marjoram for stomach ailments. They require drying, labelling, and storing for when required. And here, I have basil and borage for our kitchens, a little mint, some rosemary and lavender.

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