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Post by Susannah Frey on Jun 25, 2014 20:21:04 GMT
(This thread is open to every Redcoat, Hessian, and Loyalist and those Undecided who are at the top of society and do not oppose the war.)
It was to be a grand ball. The large ballroom had been cleaned and scrubbed and polished until every surface shone. The drawing room, likewise, had been aired out. The great double doors separating the two had been thrown open to allow movement with great ease. Even the gardens had been gone over, weeds pulled up, flowers and hedges trimmed into order. A great number of extra seats and benches had been placed along the walls of the ballroom and out among the flowers – some tucked into corners for greater discretion. The drawing room was set up as a place of refreshment. Tables, straining under the weight, were filled with hors d'oeuvre and other edibles. There were several varieties of the finest wines, port, and iced drinks as well as rum punch. A great band was already playing in one corner of the ballroom. The quick lively step of Boccherini filled the room which was already filling with gentlemen and ladies in their finest clothing. Susannah stood next to her parents, a glass of wine in hand, greeting guests as they arrived. She was already eying the room for a suitable dance partner. She didn't think that she would have long to wait as she was in good looks and her dress – newly made for that particular day – was ravishing. |
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Post by Deleted on Jun 27, 2014 17:56:55 GMT
Jack visited the port-Admiral a few days ago, shortly after he came into port with his ship. Poor Intrepid needed a lot of work, and while the Captain had enough good carpenters aboard to make the repairs necessary to keep her afloat, she had been in dire need of a good refit. The port-Admiral had managed to get his hands on some new topgallantmasts, and an entirely new mizenmast for him. He had also been able to get 52 32-pounders to replace his 18 and 24 pounders with. Intrepid would be able to fire a broadside of 850 pounds! Something that was uncommon for ships of her class. The weight of the guns would make her heavier, though. In Jack's mind, that was a good trade, though.
After he was done with the Port-Admiral, Jack had visited the post office where he had a large packet of mail waiting for him. He went through it all on his ship, and found an invitation to a ball here in New York. This would do him good, his First Lieutenant, Tom Pullings, had said, so with that he decided to attend this ball. This morning he had dressed in his finest uniform. His gig then took him ashore and off he was.
After arriving at the house of a seemingly prominent family in the city, Jack was taken to the drawing room where he was a little amazed by how much food and beverages were there. The Captain took a glass of port and then moved to a corner so that he could observe passively for a while.
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Redcoat
Mar 28, 2015 13:41:31 GMT
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Post by Danny McPherson on Jun 27, 2014 18:05:33 GMT
Danny checked her invitation again, looking for the house it belonged to along the street filled with similar houses. Put her in the woods or in the mountains and tell her to find North, not a problem. Here, in the streets, with crowds instead of birdsong and bricks instead of trees, she was useless. A cobble stone poked out of the roadway just a bit too high and her toe caught the edge. she stumbled but miraculously managed to steady herself before taking a spill in the new dress she wore. It was a few years old, bought second hand off a tailor who had made it for his daughter, who had never quite grown into it, but Danny didn't mind. at least it was long enough for her. she found it difficult to find clothes that fit her tall frame, one trait she knew for sure had been passed down from her father, whom she remembered as having to stoop through every doorway he entered. Finally she found the house that was hosting this grand ball and picked up her skirts to climb the stairway, no easy feat for someone who had spent the last year in men's clothing, and before that had worn her farmer's skirts hiked up around her knees. She had come a long way, indeed! Handing the invitation to the man at the door, she made to sweep inside when his hand stopped her. "This invitation is for an Ensign Daniel McPherson, of the 43rd." Said the man. "Yes, and I am his sister, Margaret McPherson." She said haughtily, then leaned in and put her fan beside her mouth to whisper "He couldnae find another woman tae come with him, poor man is so shy." She giggled. "I expect he'll be along shortly, but if his nerves get the best of him and he cannae attend, I wouldnae be surprised either." The man seemed satisfied with that answer and waved her in. she entered the grand hall and stood amazed at everything around, dancers swirled around the floor, servants carried trays of foods she could not even begin to imagine, and there at the side she noticed a table full of spirits. perfect. She could use a good strong drink. Checking that her powdered wig was all in place, she made to glide across the floor and casually picked up a glass of the rum punch. It was not Scotch, but it tasted divine nonetheless. |
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Post by Ronald Norris on Jun 27, 2014 18:53:42 GMT
Ron had just finished polishing the brass on his buttons, his hands smelled mildly of the brick dust he used to polish them. He casually wiped his hands on the old sleeves his cousin removed before standing up and checking his riding boots; he could almost see his reflection in them! He turned to the tarnished mirror in his modest room at the local barracks and adjusted his cravat then scowled at the dark brown wig on his head. Sure, it was impeccable, his cousin was incredibly talented, and she even blended it into his real hair with a clever dash of pomade and powder, but it itched! He scratched his head and a small cloud of lavender scented grey powder ascended above him and he sneezed,
"Lizzie, I said no powder! the only powder I like is black powder!" he grumbled readjusting his hair to rest on the brown powdered monstrosity. He sighed and looked at it again; it actually didn't look that bad on him. It almost looked like his real hair-- she was good! He still resented wearing a wig, though, because it was itchy. He scrunched his nose at his reflection before finally settling with what he looked like before leaving the little room and exiting the barracks,
"Looking good, Ronnie!" the 42nd's ensign sniggered at him as he passed by,
"Shut up! shut up so much, Harry! You're in a skirt!" he stuck his tongue out at the kid. Harry pulled his dirk out and brandished it at him,
"You know I kilt the last man what called it a skirt, right?" he said before laughing, "Get it? KILT!" Ron began laughing,
"Are you not going, Harry?" Ron asked putting his hat on, "I heard there was going to be free food." the young highlander shook his head,
"Nah, that's for bloody popinjays like you!" he said thumbing his nose at him, "Have fun though."
"Certainly will, it sounds like it will be a good time." ugh, good time? What was that? Meh, whatever! He left the safety of the barracks and walked through the cobbled streets checking every address until he found the location. There was a very pretty lady not too far in front of him who tripped-- oh no! He ran up to her and attempted to help her up, but it was too late. Maybe he could talk to her once they got in! He handed the man at the door his invitation, "Thank you, sir." he said in his best posh voice as the man took his invitation. Once inside, he was immediately greeted by a servant carrying something edible and in a grand (and practiced) swoop, he did a small, casual turn doffing his hat and removing a horderve from the tray and inhaling it. Oh he was smooth!He made his way to the punch before seeing the girl again. He swallowed whatever it was that he inhaled before introducing himself,
"Good evening, marm!" he said bowing, "Lovely evening, isn't it?" wait, how do you talk to girls again? Do they like muskets? Or bacon? What do girls like to talk about? He pulled at his cuffs a bit before trying to speak up again when something to talk about hit him. His cousin was a seamstress and she talked about adding trim to all her dresses, "You have lovely trim. Are those box pleats or knife pleats? Or bubble trim?" he seriously had no idea.
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General
Sept 3, 2014 18:24:55 GMT
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Post by William Howe on Jun 28, 2014 10:54:31 GMT
The General rubbed at an invisible speck of dust on his jacket. He wore his finest dress uniform and made sure that every bit of metal gleamed as it caught the light. Leather shoes were oiled and shined, and his breeches and coat were washed to a pristine white and scarlet. A white powdered wig hid his dark hair. Final accessories included an elegant blade with a gold tassel tied around the hilt and a cane oiled and waxed until it practically glowed. His tricorne hat was trimmed with gold lacing. The final complement to his appearance was his lovely dancing partner Elizabeth Loring.
Howe lightly kissed her hand before helping her ascend into the carriage pulled by a matched team of grey horses. Her own dress exuded summer with flowers and leaves adorning her petticoat and the rest a pale green. Both sat in silence as Howe stared absently out the tiny curtained window and Betsy focused on nothing in particular. Their bodies swayed to the uneven rocking and jolts of the carriage as the horses trotted over the rough cobblestone streets. A coachman held the door of the carriage open for them and aided Mrs. Loring descend the rickety steps. Both were quite accustomed to the finery of high society.
The servant at the door didn't even ask for their invitations. Whether on the battlefield or among the elites, Howe was a character few forgot. He smiled pleasantly at his hosts thanking them for the invitation and complimenting them on the lavish ballroom. Glasses of wine were presented to them, and Howe gladly took one. His love of alcohol was no secret. As expected of them, the couple appeared pleasant as they greeted other members of English high society and as the rich colonials came up to congratulate the general for his victory at Bunker Hill. Unlike the young ensigns, Howe navigated the familiar territory with handsome ease. He moved with confidence and poise only awarded to a victorious commander-in-chief.
Thoughts of his brother passed through Howe's mind. Richard, like any aristocrat, would be perfectly at home here. Hushed whispers and sly grins could be exchanged as they judged each woman they saw. As the youngest child, William was regularly receiving little bits of advice from his older brothers on how to act or not act or what was considered fashionable. Harmless jokes were played on "Little Billy" as he gained experience among England's elite. But tonight, the General stood tall radiating his presence around the room. He could take center stage if he so chose or merely content himself with weaving from one dancing partner to the next.
In here, the burdens of out there simply vanished. Tonight was a time to relax and enjoy all that was good about life.
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Post by Susannah Frey on Jul 7, 2014 3:15:55 GMT
The ball was an immense success. So many handsome men dressed in their finest uniforms and accompanied by the most stylish and beautiful women had arrived and were laughing and talking and drinking and dancing to their great amusement and joy. Susannah could have clapped with happiness. There was nothing worse in the world than a ball that was not attended. The humiliation of standing there all alone waiting to greet the guests who would never arrive … she shuddered at the thought.
The Commander-in-Chief – the illustrious General Howe had arrived. Susannah stood on tiptoes to get a better look at him over the crowds of dancing couples. He was accompanied by a very finely dressed woman – a Mrs. Loring, if she remembered correctly. She tried to imagine what it must be like to be escorted by such an impressive gentleman. Susannah tried to catch his eye so she could give him a smile. Perhaps he might ask her to dance – if he wasn't with Mrs. Loring the entire night.
But there was another arrival who had also caught her eye. A naval captain (@cap2) was standing in the corner drinking a glass of port. Susannah moved over to speak to him. ”Good evening, Captain. I do hope you are enjoying yourself.”
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Post by Deleted on Jul 8, 2014 9:17:00 GMT
Jack kept standing alone in the corner. He observed the arrival of several people. First a Scottish blonde. She looked good enough, and the Captain was sure she would have quite a few suitors tonight. Then came a young Ensign, seemingly of the Infantry. Jack pitied the man. Dead within half a year, most likely. That was the way of the Infantry, unfortunately. If he knew how to fight, he might've been useful in the Marines. A pity, though. Finally, came General Howe, the Commander-In-Chief of the British Army in the colonies.
Then came along a woman. He didn't recognize her, but her dress was pretty. She said hello to the Captain, and asked him if he was enjoying the party. "Good evening, Miss. I am enjoying myself, I thank you. You have me at a loss, though. I am afraid I haven't a notion as to who you are", he said.
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Redcoat
Mar 28, 2015 13:41:31 GMT
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Post by Danny McPherson on Jul 9, 2014 1:20:57 GMT
Danny turned when she heard the young Ensign speak, his voice was close enough that she assumed he was talking to her anyway.
"Good evening, Ensign, I'm very well thank yae." She stood awkwardly twisting her hips and swishing her skirts as the boy tugged at his sleeves nervously, she was surprised at how slow all the etiquette training was coming back to her, but she was confidant in her looks. Eyes half-lidded, mouth closed, teeth apart, holding a look of mild indifference, but not enough to seem rude.
Her visage failed her slightly when the man asked about her dress, and her regret was immediate when she realized that twisting the skirts had probably brought attention to it. she paled slightly and answered as best she could. "Ah'm nae sure myself, I only picked it up from the tailor today and didnae have much time to examine his handiwork. Suppose Ah'll let yae dae that!" she let herself giggle behind the fan, as fake as it sounded, it was the popular thing to do in high society. She seriously considered at that moment to leave the party early and get back into her uniform, and return as Ensign Danny McPherson, but she pressed on.
"So tell me what regiment yae are from? have yae seen any action yet?"
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Post by Ronald Norris on Jul 10, 2014 0:09:30 GMT
Ron blushed a bit when the lady fluttered her fan and giggled, <i> All right, she has no idea about her dress, what do I try to talk about now? Lissie?! Where are you when I need you?! What to talk about?!Erm, what do girls talk about?!</i> He racked his brain for more things his cousin talked about, but she usually liked talking sewing but clearly this lady did not know much at all on the subject and neither did he (which gave them something in common, he supposed). He nervously began pulling at one of the buttons on his cuffs before swiping another whatever-it-was from a tray one of the servants was carrying, much to the servant's irritation at the swift and sudden praying mantis-like swipe. Without thinking, he grabbed another before the servant could get away from him and offered it to the lady,
"Erm, here." he said handing it to her still unsure as to what it was. He breathed a sigh of relief when she asked for his regiment, "Oh! I'm an ensign for the Fourth Regiment of Foot and I haven't seen any battle yet, I have only recently arrived. I hope to, though! I come from a long line of officers in His Majesty's army, seems only right that I carry the tradition." he smiled a bit, "My name is Ronald Norris, pleased to meet you, miss." He stopped for a moment to look at all the other guests to see who was dancing; Haste to the Wedding was being danced already and he was always told entering into a dance right in the middle of it was always a horrible idea, he would have to wait until the next one. In the meantime, though, he saw General Howe with his beautiful dancing partner, Lizzie Loring and wished his cousin was here to see her dress and her hair as well. How did her hair stay up like that?! Seriously, what did women do to keep their hair up and what did they hide in it? Birds nests? A miniature army ready to strike at any given moment? Another wig? General Howe looked impressive, too, but then again it was his job to be impressive. Sure, they were in the same regiment, but he didn't feel it fit to approach him only being a junior officer. Maybe they all could wind up dancing together at some point in the evening and perhaps then they could talk. And was that who he thought that was?! Was that a naval captain!? He certainly must have to talk to him and discuss plans of attacking the French! In the meantime, Haste to the Wedding had ended and the dance caller, some popinjay of a man, called for a French dance, La Bonne Amitie. He knew this one! Ron offered out his arm to the Scottish lady, "Miss, have you danced yet this evening?"
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Post by Nathaniel Sutton on Jul 12, 2014 0:55:39 GMT
Rebellious in nature, Nathan made his way through the crowd while not trying to garner attention to himself as he walked around. As he made his way around he noted who was at the party and caught various information flowing out of the mouths of the officer’s much like the wine that was being poured in glasses about the room. He had not been invited here on this night he had been sent to New York and was enjoying his assignment. Sure New York had pretty women but he missed his native New Jersey. He felt odd wearing the uniform of a British officer.
The whole of the gathering kept him on his toes as he tried to do his job and not incite the ire of the ladies, lest they cause a scene. He made his way slowly around the room watching the people mingle with each other as he listened for key information that he thought might be useful to the Patriots.
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Post by Elizabeth Harlow on Jul 15, 2014 3:08:39 GMT
You would have never had guessed that Ms. Elizabeth Harlow was a Patriot. She had the education and the wit to be a loyalist, but get her in the right mood and she'll give you a piece of her mind about how she felt. She was often easily offended by those who were ignorant, and were one sided about the whole conflict. It drove her mad when individuals turned their noses up to change, and she wasn't about to turn down a good argument. Man or woman, she'll speak her mind and argue till the cows came home.
Elizabeth wasn't here to spy, nor was she here to start a riot and burn down the loyalists' dwellings, she was simply here because she had loyalists in her family, and Granny urged her to go on her behalf. No one argued with Granny. Elizabeth wore a deep blue dress, low cut on the neck, and gold threaded trim across the bodice. It was her favorite dress, so she hoped to do it justice here. She walked into the room, and the air escaped her lungs. She didn't want to attract attention to herself, and have people flock to her. She held her head high and acted like this was just another party. She spotted the string quartet, accompanied by a penny flute and an assortment of others, and she smiled. Elizabeth loved music, so she stood and watched the dancers dance reels, and then made her way around the room. She stopped to get a glass to wet her throat, and then she mixed in with the crowd. |
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Post by Susannah Frey on Jul 17, 2014 0:40:41 GMT
Susannah let out a charming laugh. She held out her hand. "Miss Susannah Frey. This is my home. Perhaps you saw my parents, the highly respected Jonathan Frey and my lovely mother, they were greeting guests in the doorway. My father owns most of the ships you see sitting in the harbor. And who do I have the pleasure of speaking to?" It didn't matter what his name was, she had such an idealized and romantic notion of sailors and seamen, that his name could have been anything and she would have been entranced. "Before the night is through, you must tell me about every single major battle you've taken part in. And don't smooth over the details. I want it all. And include seafaring terms. I can twig, I'm sure."More guests had arrived while she was speaking and the ballroom was packed with dresses of every color and pattern spinning around and mingling with red and blue uniforms. The brilliant chatter and laughter was at such a happy volume that it nearly drowned out the band. She longed to dance but the song was already ongoing. Perhaps when the one ended and another began. Perhaps the good Captain would even be so kind as to ask her. She simply longed to dance with a Captain of the Royal Navy. "This is turning out to be such a wonderful party. I am having a grand time. Though, I dare say, there are so many people here - soldiers, I dare say - who I haven't had the pleasure to acquaint myself. None compare to knowing an officer of the Royal Navy, but some do look quite interesting. Such as him," Susannah gently took the arm of a passing soldier ( Nathaniel Sutton). She had watched him circling around the room several times, perhaps looking for someone. But either way, he didn't seem to find whoever it was he was seeking - most likely a young woman - and Susannah wished to be kind. "Sir, if you do not already know him, allow me to introduce the Captain, the most highly respected and skilled of the entire Royal Navy. Are you not simply astounded to meet him? I was." |
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General
Sept 3, 2014 18:24:55 GMT
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Post by William Howe on Jul 17, 2014 1:16:35 GMT
Tag; Elizabeth HarlowAs the commander of the Loyalist forces, Howe found himself swarmed by admirers and anyone who wanted to catch a glimpse of the famous general. His reputation from Quebec and Bunker Hill long preceded him. Though he would have enjoyed a a few more dances, most only wanted to hear of his accomplishments. Howe found himself reciting his recent victory at Breed's Hill and carefully ignoring the nasty bits so as to save the women's ears. A few times, he was able to excuse himself for a dance or two. As the companion of General Howe, Elizabeth Loring was soon swept away by young men in bright uniforms hoping to dance with someone so well thought of by the general. William was careful to not dance with any woman twice. In the upper ranks of society and as a married man, he didn't want to come off as interested in any of the young eligible ladies present. Butlers weaved in and out of the clumps of party-goers bearing trays of pastries and fizzing wine. Howe was more than able to satisfy his love of drink but still kept careful watch over just how many glasses he drank. It would be unbecoming for the commander-in-chief to be seen drunk in public. A young woman in a blue dress caught his eye. Howe assumed she was from a rich colonial family as he didn't quite recall her from functions back in England. Then again, he saw many women in England and most blurred together after awhile. It took some finagling and buttered words to remove himself from the pack of young ladies, but Howe was determined to get a dance from the pretty girl in blue. The gold tassel on his dress sword swung freely as he walked and the cane seemed to add to his confidence and presence. It was all decorative, really, as Howe was perfectly capable to walking and riding. Even a general was a slave to modern fashions. "Madam, would you care for a dance?" William bowed slightly and held out his right hand in invitation. He saw no need to introduce himself. After all, everyone invited would have been expected to at least recognize the General. Howe could feel several sets of eyes glued to his back watching his every move. A young lad unused to the high stakes of social functions might have been unnerved by it all, but Howe considered himself a veteran. His older brothers advised him well as a lad on how to behave. The night was still young, and Howe had no doubts he would be dancing with many more women through the rest of the evening. |
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Redcoat
Mar 28, 2015 13:41:31 GMT
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Post by Danny McPherson on Jul 17, 2014 13:54:45 GMT
Danny smiled as the young Ensign offered her his arm to the dance floor, she had been taught the basic and fashionable dances of the day, and this tune sounded familiar, so she placed her hand on top of his and allowed him to lead the way. It took her a moment to get into the swing of things, but soon she found her feet and settled in to let the young man lead her around the floor. They made an odd couple to be sure, she stood almost a full head above him in her heels, and she had no doubt if she were to take them off, she would still tower over him by a hand at least. Still, the boy did his best and it was clear he suited the army life, she could sense all the energy surging through him and she laughed.
"I hope, Ensign Norris, that yae are as adept on the field of battle as yae are on the field of dance! I feel as if yae could dance on for hours!"
She, however, lacked that kind of stamina at dancing, especially with said heeled shoes on, and so excused herself when the tune was finished and wished him well on finding a new dance partner. As she rested once again by the spirits table, sipping another rum punch, she gazed at the crowd of men and women, all completely comfortable with this life, in tune with each other. She spotted General Howe speaking with a flock of women, all mesmerized by his voice and whatever story he was telling. a pang of sorrow hit her stomach and she reached out to grasp a column along the wall. Howe had been there at Bunker Hill, the same battle she had watched Major Pitcairn fall to a sniper and found her friend Michael felled as well. She continued to stare at the general, tears holding in her eyes, Until he moved off from the crowd of admirers and headed for a lady in another blue dress. She blinked and shook her head, she was here to dance, not reminisce. Although she did wish that the general would ask her to dance as well, she could use the opportunity to ask him what his plans were for the army.
While pondering these things, she spotted another British officer, although she could not tell the rank or regiment, caught up by the daughter of the hosts and a Naval Captain. He's a handsome one. she thought to herself, perhaps I could get some information out of him as well. She moved closer to the small group, not wanting to interrupt, but still trying to catch the man's attention
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Post by Deleted on Jul 18, 2014 11:43:34 GMT
Jack bowed, and kissed the lady's knuckles. Then he said "A pleasure. And I did meet them, yes. As for your father's ships, I am afraid I find them a nuisance, rather than anything else. They have a tendency to get in the way, you see. I am Jack Aubrey, Captain of His Majesty's Ship Intrepid." He was proud to tell people that he was the Captain of the Intrepid. Soon, if his father would finally fall down, he would also be a Viscount! The men in his family had a tendency to out-live their usefulness, though. Jack wasn't sure about telling Miss Frey about his battles. They were many, and most of them he would rather forget.
Jack didn't like being dragged out of his corner. If he wanted to meet this man, he would have stepped up to him. There was little he could do about it, though. Jack bowed, and said "Good evening, sir. Captain Jack Aubrey".
==Bad post, I know... Writing on an old laptop on vacation in Germany sucks, though...==
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