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Soldier and the Spy (AnjelRocker and I)

“I do a lot of that myself when I am not interested in the gentleman.” She said simply with a shrug of her shoulders before fanning herself. “We moved here from England when I was about five year old… We are originally from Cornwall and my father was of a low nobility. Naturally, he did not have much for money but was offered a position here in the colonies and he obviously took it. This was all before the umm… business with what is happening.” She did not want to talk much about the politics since it was not proper. “And well, only the youngest was born here in the colonies but it is now our home. I don’t even remember England at all. My earlier memory was being on the ship crossing to our new home.”

“I have two brothers, and two sisters…” And her two brothers were in the British military but she did not mention that since it was again not proper. The man was a Patriot and she was rethinking being interested in this. Perhaps, she ought to scare him off.

Then again, she could also get information from him if she were to become close enough… even become a fiancée and then, she could help with the British cause. “You met Frances but there is also Elizabeth who is too young to come to the ball. And then, my brothers… Andrew and Arthur.” She explained. “And of course, Mama and Papa as well as Aunt Susan.” She explained. “Most of our other family are still over in England.” She thought she was related to Dukes and Duchesses but that was not something to be bragging about as she once had before.

She thought about what he had said about her beauty and smiled a little to herself. “My, are we not perhaps a bit daring.” A smirk gracing her red tinted lips as she patted her dark hair a little. It was piled on top of her head in a coiffure with a string of pearls around it for decoration. Her gown which had been touched up was a pale sunshine yellow with wide hips of the panniers that were so in fashion. She had also sewn little dark pink fabric rosebuds on the dress to make it stand out along with similar coloured ribbons. “I suppose I do not mind it when the gentlemen is rather handsome.” She was feeling mischievous before sipping a little more of her punch laced with the rum.

“Ah… yes, the cause.” She was not so interested anymore if he was going to talk about that. “I do not know much about it… I only worry for the well-being of my family.” And that was her stand on that in public.
 
Alexander nodded as she mentioned the cause, the same reluctant tone is father took. Agatha was similar, though being younger she was caught up in the fervor of youth. His blood ran hot for his home, but Alexander realized enough that not everyone shared the sentiments yet. The Tory Riots had shown that allegiances were muddled, and with the recent furor at Eleanor's home he was astute enough to know that this was not the best subject to broach. Enjoying the closeness, the intimacy with her, he wanted it to continue. He did blush a bit at her calling him daring, it was not in his nature to be so forward, in some ways Alexander felt out of his depth with Eleanor.

"I have never been on a ship, except once at dock in the harbor," he tried to change the subject. The way she touched her hair, it was as if every movement was done with elegance, grace, a minimum of effort to achieve what Eleanor wanted. "I found it fascinating, the rigging, the sails, the weathering on the ships. I always thought it must be so exciting to go to sea. Although with the family business there was no way my father would allow that."

Finishing his punch put the cup down, "we still have family somewhere near Plymouth in England that my mother writes to, we get a letter or two a year when the ships can bring the mail. There was land in the family at a time, at least until the Commonwealth and Cromwell, sad times those." He lamented the history, but it was more shared with his father who still stung with it, though it was so long ago that he had no feelings for it.

The orchestra slowed then began again, "would you be so kind as to grace my humble presence on the dance floor again Miss Caldwell? It is rare I have so lovely, and graceful, a partner to admire so closely," he bowed slightly offering her his hand.
 
How could she say no to a dance with the handsome soldier? Eleanor finished her cup of punch with the bit of rum and took his hand so they could go into a minuet as the band was starting up for the next dance. This dance was a bit longer but they were able to do a bit of talking during the dance but there was also bowing and turning… it was a bit of a slow dance and she did prefer the waltz from Austria since with that his hand went on her waist. The minuet was coming to a close and it was a pity because she could not dance with him again that night. This was because dances had a two dance minimum unless you were fiancées but even then was a little too much when it came to dancing. Dancing two dances always meant that you were interested in the other person. Everyone danced with those on their dance card at least once so that you were polite.

The dance did come to a close and she had a smile on her face because it had been fun. Eleanor was looking up at him, “You are not terrible at dancing for someone who never goes to balls.” She mentioned with a smirk on her features as she said boldly, “You can ask now if it is alright to call of me…” She was being perhaps too forward but he seemed to be shy at times.

“Perhaps another refreshment and you can tell me more of what it was like to grow up a Puritan, Hmm?” Eleanor was naturally joking about that but she did hope that he knew that as he escorted her off the dance floor towards the crowds of people who were socializing at this event. Fannie was dancing with a few gentlemen and the look on her face said that she felt like the Belle of the ball. She was as pretty as her older sister.
 
Alexander wanted to monopolize her time, knowing it was decadent of him. Her beauty had captured him, the luxuriant hair, styled as it was only accentuated the grace and poise with which she carried herself. When his hand had been on hers he had to calm himself, slightly nervouse at her soft touch it stirred something within him. The soft curve of her back where he rested his arm told him of the slim body beneath the voluminous dress.

While his parents were not socialites he had spent enough summers in Concord or Lexington with his cousins that he had learned to dance and how to behave. Being one of his cousins dance partners, learning as she learned. When Eleanor told him it was ok to ask whether it was ok to call on her he felt his heart skip again that night, she was beautiful, intelligent, and bold. Three things he admired, though a bold woman in Massachusetts was often not encountered with the Puritan background of the colony. Leading her from the dance floor hesitated at going back to the spiked punch, but he was enjoying the glow of rum, and Eleanor did not seem to mind it.

Taking a cup for each carried them as they moved towards the back of the crowd since they had completed their dances. "If you want an untouched bowl we can look, though at this late time I doubt none of them are free of some libation," he admitted suspecting Hammond had done a circuit of the room. Then spying his tent mate on the floor with a tall, smiling blonde in a long, ribboned dress.

"You sister seems to be enjoying herself," he gestured towards her younger sister who had a broad smile on her face as she moved about the floor with an equally smiling, all gentleman. Finding a quieter space on the edge of the crowd he stood close as they were jostled by the moving couples and crowd. "Miss Caldwell," he began formally, wanting to bow or perform some action but unable to in the close quarters as he looked down at the dark rimmed eyes and flushed cheeks. "If you would be so kind as to admit me, I would like to be able to speak with you again." The words came out slightly rushed, while he could talk about some things, Alexander felt the reticence of his upbringing coming out, "to be able to see you, perhaps at your house, where it would be proper."
 
The light touches was an indication that he was quite smitten as he was leading her towards a more quiet area. “You have to expect it at a party… I mean, someone is bound to spike the punch with a little something extra… it’s like a custom for some gentlemen.” She eyed him suspiciously before a smile grace her face again. “You do not seem the sort to do something like that but then, I do not know.” She gave a little shrug as she leaned a little into his touch. Her gown making soft swishing noises as she was brushing pass other ladies and gentlemen engaged in their conversations about this and that.

A bit of the conversation or rather, a lot of it was about the impending Revolution as some were naming it. She thought it more of a civil war… it made her think or the other civil wars that had happened on English soil in the past. There was the English Civil War in which the Roundheads did win and cut off the King’s head but only for his son to return some eleven years later and restore the monarchy.

Not that she thought that these rebels had the power to do something so drastic… “Oh, yes… It is her first ball and I remember mine two years before. It is also an exciting event for a girl.” She mentioned with a smile as her sister had a look of being utterly carefree. “I had to warn her of some of the sorts of men who… umm… well, take on a sport. Naïve ladies that is.” She mentioned as she glanced back at the man that she was standing with.

“Are you asking to court me, Lieutenant?” She asked simply but there was a little look of knowing on her face as she nodded. “I don’t see the harm in you visiting my home. It is not quite up to par as it once had been… well, with the business of our first meeting naturally.” She mentioned since they could not really spend their money on replacing their furniture. The furniture that could be repaired had been but other pieces had been broken beyond the scope of repair.

“The answer is yes, Lieutenant Gage.” She finally said before someone pushed pass her making her trip over herself directly towards his arms. She could hear a small yet insincere sorry at that very moment.
 
Catching her lightly in his arms, he almost felt gigantic next to her slim form. His arms reached out to steady her, a smile on his lips as he steaded her a perceptible change in her demeanor passed over her quickly, the eyes coming back to him. As she came into him his hands caught her and for a moment as they were pressed together his heart beat faster, the blood echoing in his ears. Watching the face, with the pearl wrapped hair come to him, the sweet, punch-soaked lips close to him as the dress moved ungainly around them. For a moment all he could think of was having those lips next to him, his desire almost taking him over, an image of them pressed together in a space all of their own passing across his mind.

Catching himself, turned to find that the guilty party had escaped in the crowd as they found themselves on the edge of the room. Her hand still in his to steady her, the soft palm and long fingers held in his decorously, he stared at them a moment as they stood more outside the swirling crowd. The room was warm, the edges of the open window beginning to mist at the exertions of the dancers. Gaining a stiffer back as he looked down into her captivating eyes, the eyebrows perfectly shaped and curved over the illuminating eyes.

"Miss Caldwell, I can assure you, it is not in my character to make sport of the ladies." Adding to himself, though I know of at least one gentleman who does. As she agreed to let him come and visit knew that was one hurdle out of the way, the smile broadened across his face. "I may. visit you," at first the surprise came out in his voice, but he recovered quickly, "delightful! I appreciate that your home may be in a delicate state, and in such a time an outside intruding himself may not be welcome. I do not wish to insinuate myself upon your house, yet it is not often I encounter a woman of elegance and rare beauty as yourself, to let such chance slip by," he let himself train off knowingly at that. Adding quickly as his attention was taken across the room by a shift in the music, "I shall have to ask your parents as well, for propriety's sake of course."

Inside he was leaping for joy, to think that such a beauty would allow him, his elation taking the better of him as he realized he still had her hand in his. Thoughts of everything else were outside of him now, as dreams and fantasies of her tickled at the edges of his mind as he spoke about his family, with just he and his sister Agatha in the household. They had their church, and for that they lived simply, though the business had given the family more than enough money. His parents were quiet about the money and while they had family who were lawyers and farmers, they tended to not have too many wants, but their faith decried obvious displays of wealth. Raising his sleeve to show the gold brocade with a bit of pride that he thought unseemly, but could not help, "this is the most obvious display my mother had ever allowed."
 
She was embarrassed enough for that moment when she fell into him because of the other man or woman who bustled by her in a rush to get somewhere in the room. Looking up at him with a look of shock from having fallen into the gentleman, it seemed like they were the only two in the room for that brief moment as she seemed to remember herself. Eleanor apologized as she moved a little away from him, a respectable distance but still close enough that they were holding hands.

She did not even seem to notice that their hands were in one another. Of course, her hand was still cover but her white lace kit gloves as she said, “That was perhaps a little rude of them, and they did not stop. Lucky that you were there to make sure that I did not injury myself. Thank you, Lieutenant.” She could feel her cheeks blushing a little before he escorted her towards a nice place for the two of them to sit and talk with one another. “I am very happy to hear that you are a man of excellent morals…” She said in respond as she sat herself down and leaned a little forward so they could enjoy the conversation with one another.

“And you will have a chance to speak to them by the end of tonight.” She mentioned to him. “They should be happy to have you.” Well, she was unsure about what her father would think about a Rebel trying to court her. After all, the men of the Revolution were upset about taxes… something that was required for a nation like Great Britain to run. How could they think to have government services without taxation? Yes, there was the matter of representation and Parliament was taking a rather long time to go about having respectable representatives for the American colonies.

And there was the matter of the so called Boston massacre but five people died… which was nothing to incite the unrest that had been seen in the colonies since she was a young girl. The news of what was happening in other colonies as well had her family on edge.

Perhaps, this was a terrible idea.

“I do not mean to be rude but it seems so silly to not be able to show that you have wealth. Fine clothing, jewellery. Some people work very hard for that wealth. My father did when he came to the colonies. We certainly did not have much… at least from what I could remember when I was very young.” And this was the truth. Her father had come and worked hard… just, he was of low aristocrats but not all aristocrats were rich. They had been living with the help of her father’s brother before… they did not talk of it but father had had a bit of a gambling problem before.

“It is a lovely piece.” She complimented him with a smile having looked at the gold brocade.
 
Nodding he accepted the compliment on his uniform, tightening it slightly in pride.

"I do look forward to meeting the parents who have raised such a lovely daughter," Alexander did his best to add his desire to do the proper thing with Eleanor with a compliment. She seemed to like that, as he knew most women did, but he also wanted to do right by her. "As to wealth, well we did have land a long time ago. My ancestors joined the Strangers when they began and they were like the Franciscans in a way," he knew some of the old monks but thought it bad party conversation. Looking into her eyes could see she was humoring him as he veered off into a historical topic that had been a favorite of his.

"I'd rather talk about you," he turned to her abruptly, his heart leaping to his throat, as he tried to get off his topic. Her hand still in his as they leaned close on the outside of the party. "You seem to do rather well now," he gestured toward the gown, "I know my mother might call it decadent, but I think it suits you very well. Elegant and graceful, like yourself," unsure of how many compliments she really liked tried adding more.

"I do hope that I can earn the privilege to call you by your first name, Miss Caldwell." His earnestness in the way he was as forward as he was allowed. The sweat on the back of his neck partly from the warmth of the room, as well as his nervousness at being near her. The address was formal as he suspected she would want, knowing from his dealings of other more recent English families that politeness and social dictums were different than the discipline he was used to.

A glance about the party as he noticed the loudness of the crowd as the dance floor was overfull now, the room in constant motion as he suspected the punch was working its way through the crowd. An older gentleman in powdered wig and spectacles balanced on his beak of a nose was leading the orchestra now in a more jaunty waltz. He did not want it to end, as that would mean they would part. Even if they did, he knew he'd be dreaming about her this night.
 
She looked down at her gown, it was a little decadent but not as much as some of the fashions that she was seeing in some of the fashion catalogs that she wished they had more recent ones from England. “Oh, well… Thank you…” She looked a little uncomfortable now because he was giving her a few too many compliments at this point. Not that she disliked the compliments but she just did not know what to really say. “As for my parents, they would be delighted if you came to visit…” She thought of the practically of being courted by a rebel. They were in an area with many rebels and so, it would look like they were siding with them but what if the British were to win? Would they be authorised? Well, for now… this was the safe option as she smiled at the Lieutenant.

“Well, we have only just met. Perhaps after a few more meetings then we will be able to use each other’s Christian names.” She mentioned to him as she thought about what his first name was… she remembered him introducing himself as Alexander Gage. Well, Lieutenant Alexander Gage. “Did you want to perhaps go and dance with other ladies? I know that I am fascinating but I do not want to hold you from enjoying yourself, Lieutenant.” She was being polite to him, she was enjoying the conversation.

“What do you want to know more about, Lieutenant?” Eleanor asked as she was still holding his hand without noticing before she looked down and blushed a little. However, she did not pull away. Lord, there were going to be tongues wagging about this. After all, the women of the rebellion could be horror gossips at times.
 
Alexander had never thought seriously about courting before, his mother had mentioned it at times when a daughter of someone came of age in their Church or a friend. None of them ever seemed inspiring though, unlike Eleanor who seemed colorful and full of life. Feeling shy, thinking he had done some wrong by already making plans to visit her and her parents without talking to his family. With her hand in his, and his heart thumping hard, Alexander had trouble concentrating on the dance, his eyes only going to her.

"It am most content, and having a delightful evening, Miss Caldwell." It was true, he had not been able to stop thinking of her, meeting her here seemed like fate. "We were asked to come by our Captain, and honestly I do not know many here. I was glad to see you." Giving her a beaming smile straightened his uniform as the crowd moved them back.

As more couples moved around them he did see Masters move across the entryway, a thin rail of a girl in his arm as they were leaving. Hammond was on the dance floor now, his hear plastered to his head with the exertion. Alexander felt glad they were in the cooler side of the room. He did not want to leave, or leave her, but he was glad to have the promise of future time with her.

Interested in her, he wanted to know more about her. Anything, but he felt most of his questions inadequate. Though if he was to visit he was unsure what to do, other than stare at her and talk, wondering if they had any common interests knew his own family had made them learn music when younger. "My sister plays the harpsichord, and I occasionally did play with her on the violin, do you play any instruments?"
 
Eleanor looked delighted when he said that he could play an instrument. “Why, yes…I do play an instrument. The piano forte and we were so lucky that no one broke it and we were able to fix the stool since someone had broken that piece of furniture by the time you and your men arrived.” She mentioned to him with a smile. “It was one of the small miracles from the raid on my home.” She thought fondly of having her piano forte. “All three of the girls in my family were taught by my mother.” She pointed out to him. “We have had a little instruction in some of the other instruments but I have taken to the piano forte… well, Mama is best at the harp and was hoping that at least one of us would take it up.”

She paused for a moment. “Well, Betsy… the youngest seems fond of it. That was not damaged either since it have been upstairs.” Eleanor smiled at him. “Do you think that you would have come to this ball if you were not told to come?” She asked wondering if he would be honest. “We were a little surprised to have been invited with the obvious suspicious.” She sighed. “However, I am glad to have been invited. It had been a delightful evening.” She was quite happy and content at that moment, he seemed a little nervous. Perhaps, distracted? But, then… he was also focused on her and she had a feeling that he was interested but then… one could never be sure with men. Some could be so fickle and others could be a little too interested and working much too hard in the chase.

“Are you very good on the violin…? Such a lovely instrument. I suppose that it is music to my ears.” She laughed a little at her pun. “Do you have other talents? I suppose other than shooting a musket?”
 
Laughing at her pun, both to compliment her wit, and it was funny. "I took up the violin early, thankfully I was not expected to take up the harpsichord, I can't imaging having to pull that one around! I liked to play outside in the sun, not as easy to do with such instruments. Though my sister is very good, we do play duets on occasion. I would look fondly on being able to play a duet with you sometime." Then adding hastily as if overplaying his hand, "as well as your family. I'm sure it would sound quite delightful. Although I would have to take it from my family's home, an officers tent, while a small bastion of culture among the soldiery is not a place for delicate instruments."

A phrase he had heard from Masters at one point, though Hammond often said it was because the man had no talent. While Masters often talked about his playing, none of them had actually heard him play a note. "Of course my mother thought it was rather decadent to play at home, my father and his family impressed upon her the importance of a musical education and exposure. She often does needlepoint while my sister and I play on rainy afternoons."

Thinking for a moment, "I am not sure of other talents as exceptional. I do know some of the classics from my time at Harvard," he said it simply not boasting since the College was still relatively new. Though well known. "I was a rather good poet in my student days, though I am sadly out of practice." Giving Eleanor an eye of appreciation, "though maybe I will have the opportunity to practice again."

"The ball," he looked around and thought about it, "I do not think I would have come otherwise. Although if I had known persons such as yourself were here, I would have made more of an opportunity of it." Patting her hand with his free one as if in apology, enjoying the length of time he could hold her slim hands. A blush creeping up his neck as he thought about it. "I doubt there could be suspicions on such as person as yourself Miss Caldwell, emotions are running hot these days. So my father says. If he'd had his way I'd be in place in the family business instead of," he gestured his hand at the uniform.
 
The idea of a duet with the young soldier was something of a delight, “You must bring your violin to play a duet. I suppose that we cannot really play in the sun.” She leaned in close. “Heaven forbid that I get another freckle on my skin.” Her mother would faint if she thought that Eleanor would get a tan or a freckle on her face. She did pause. “Well, if it is a bit of a problem… then do not trouble yourself. I am sure that you are much too busy with the plan of action to get into Boston.” She causally mentioned wondering if that was too obvious. Well, now… she felt nervous since this had been uncalled for. She was not looking for information but if he were to talk to her. Men did have this thing where they thought that all women cared about was lace and dresses amongst other things. Not saying that she did not care for those things but she was also a smart young woman.

She was sure that his mother was a delight to speak to but she did not say that to him because she was being a little sarcastic in her thinking but only because it seems so boring to not have music playing. I mean, there was only so much sewing before one became mental. “Oh, I like to read as well… I do like reading the works of Shakespeares’ plays. I use to go see them before, however… not many productions being put on these days. Well…” She did put on productions for mother sometimes with Betsy and Fannie but that was embarrassing to tell of… the idea that she wanted to be an actress was very much scandalous. Her mother liked the plays but told her never to tell anyone of these little performances.

She did not mention the Literature of the day that was mostly propaganda from both sides but she did talk of the newest Drama that she was engrossed in. “Well, I am quite glad that you attended the ball… be it by volunteering or I spoke being voluntold.”
 
"I look forward to playing with you," he felt somewhat excited to be able to plan so much with her. "Oh yes, the great Bard! I have always had such a fondness for his poems and stories. There always seemed to be much beneath the surface." With her beside him one came inspired.


Ye know also though ye saye naye
That you alone are my desire ;
And you alone it is that maye
Asswage my fervent flaming fire


As it left his lips he realized how scandalous it might be, a surprised look came on his face, "pardon, sometimes they just slip out. I did not mean to offend."

Collecting himself he thought it best to change the subject, "well, we are still collecting men. Consolidating our position you might say, no plans for invasion yet. General Ward has us set to encircle the city, especially the Charlestown and Boston Necks." Staring down into her bright eyes felt a flush rise on him again, she was so rapt on his words that he began to speak, loving the look of interest in her eyes that sparkled as he met them. A tremor of excitement running through his body.

"Sadly, the conscription for many men seems to only be temporary in their minds, I've already had men in my company leave. It's not like we have enough men as it is, and then we lose more after the come, it's not right." Feeling slightly impassioned at the thought, "the British would label them deserters I suppose. I'd like to think well of them, and maybe some find a temporary lull in their passions once the fever of patriotism has run its course." His heart beat slightly as he spoke, almost feeling like he was marking to the beat of a drum on parade. "I do not mean to bore you with this sort of talk though Miss Caldwell. I could probably go on for awhile with a tale of woe."
 
The poem had made her turn a rather bright shade of crimson as she was sitting there listening to it. It was beautiful but she did wonder what people would say if they had heard such scandalous words being said to her. However, she could not help but give a shut smile. “Lieutenant, you did not offend me.” She reassured him quietly. “I mean, the poem was interesting.” She blushed a little brighter as she then smiled at him. It was then that he changed the subject and that became very interesting to her as she hoped that she did not seem too interested. After all, she was getting what she was sure was vital information for her brother, Arthur as she listened to what he was saying.

Of course, she had some idea of what was going on but she did not know the details… however, Eleanor had a talent for remembering details and patterns when it came down to it and she was remembering all the details to write in her letters to Arthur in their secret code. “It seems like it is perhaps a bit of a release for you, Lieutenant… I cannot imagine what it is like to be a soldier.” She said softly. “It must be dreadful… I cannot say that I know of what it is like.” There had been so much death already if the papers had been true… on both the American and British side… she felt like she was between a rock and a hard place as she sat in the warm ballroom.

“I think I need to go outside for a bit of fresh air… it is a bit warm in this ballroom… no?” She said softly as she wondered the course of attack. Well, her brother had asked for the information but she did like this soldier… even if he seemed to be an impossible match for her. Really, he was a Patriot and the idea of going into another religion… would that be expected. Naturally, marriage was on her mind because why else would a courting continue? However, she could also use him for information about the Patriots and their position. That was useful to the British? She assumed so despite not really knowing anything about the Art of War.
 
Alexander followed her outside the ballroom, the open doorway nearby leading to the small garden near the house. It was warm in the room, the music and dancing increasing in tempo, other couples flitting about outside to cool off from the exertions of the ball. Soft giggling sounded about them, but other couples came out and moved across the garden to find a hidden, shadowy space along the edge. Alexander noticed his own excitement at still being near Eleanor, thinking her more of a paragon of grace and virtue than he had when first meeting her, the eyes had drawn him in, and her strength of character, but it was definitely the profile and features which held his interest.

Chiseled out of human clay into a woman of unparalleled beauty, found little touches that elicited more and more interest from him. A turn of the head, a slight smile on the lips, batting eye lashes. Even a slight gesture of the hands drew his attention, and his love for her. Knowing he was smitten with her there was no surprise to him, but he hardly knew her, and that excitement of discovery added fuel to fire of desire that built in his heart. Their hands still maintained contact, if not for that physical connection he might have considered all of this a dream.

"Some of the others like to play at soldier," he admitted as they walked outside. Glad to have some common subject to speak of, although it was military in nature he'd heard Hammond speak before about women and soldiers. They were attracted, all of them, he would say, to the excitement and the life style. Yet another way for him to get close. "I admit I did a little when I was a boy, but I see now the life is more rules and regulations. I have yet to see a real battle, Lexington and Concord I was not present for but I have heard the older men talk about it." Telling Eleanor the thrill of the men in line, the powder and the charge.

As they walked near the garden, the scent of flowers in his nostrils as he held her hand and looked affectionately at her, glad to have her attention on him. "I think we may soon be tested, my regiment that is, but I do not know when. Though there seems to be an anticipation that the siege will cause some reaction. I only pray I am prepared. Daily we drill, but daily we have men come and leave, believing their volunteerism makes their enlistment conditonal."
 
Her hand laid on his arm as she walked with him, listening with great interest. If only he knew that she was most likely playing him like a fiddle. She supposed that she was not doing the right thing but this was for the British. Her father had been a customs official and now, he was trying to go back on something else so money would be coming into their home. After all, the family was accustom to a certain lifestyle. Perhaps, they would be rewarded if Eleanor was to listen to this Lieutenant and then write down the information later. She was smiling at the handsome soldier as they walked amongst the floral arrangements of the garden, the people of this home had done quite an amazing job. She thought this to herself before her attention was back on Lieutenant Gage.

“Do you worry a little about what it’s going to be like if you go into battle, Lieutenant…” She wondered if she ought to give him permission to use her name. No, she would need patience for this. “I mean, from the descriptions in the newspapers. Some of the battle sound truly gruesome. Father does not allow us to read the paper because of the descriptions…” She looked a little sheepish, “But, I cannot help myself in wanting to know what it is like… curiosity. I suppose.” She said softly as she looked up.

“And now, knowing that you could go into a battle… well, I am quite concerned for your well-being…” Her mind was processing what he had said about there could be an upcoming battle and she knew that she was going to have to make sure that letter went to her brother that very night. “I do not know if I could prepare for something like that… the thought of losing…ummm…” She blushed. “Well, I hope you do not think me too bold but I consider you a friend… a good one even if we have only met.” She could not say they were much more without causing a scandal. “Well, I would like to be more then friends, Lieutenant.” There was a smirk on her pretty face as she said this since they had come to a stop.

Perhaps, they ought to walk a little more but she was looking up into his eyes as they were among the blooming spring flowers on this beautiful evening.
 
Walking outside with her, her face leaned up to his own felt as if he was special. The dark lines of make-up around her eyes made them glow in the shadows of the night. The cascade of dark hair framing the sculpted cheeks, his eye ran over her face with more desire than he had known. Swallowing hard had to fight back the feelings that rose within him. Alexander had never been a passionate person, growing up in even the relaxed Puritan rules of his father's household had not been one of the heart. Now though, all those long years of emotion welled up inside him like a fountain, his own Vesuvius about to erupt.

"I do thank you for your concern, I have yet to see battle myself though it is only a matter of time. As we encircle the city the garrison there will have no choice but to come and meet us." The rise of battle rose in him for a moment, "although some of the officers believe that the garrison will strike somewhere for food or fodder. The city only had so much before the siege began, perhaps the islands of the harbor. We are making preparations," he whispered the last conspiratorially.

Calming himself with her presence and the hand on her, he looked deeply into her eyes. Wetting his lips as he felt the desire to kiss her. His body moved closer to her, his head arcing down. Enticed and drawn by the beauty in front of him. The wide line of her lips, lightly touched by some coloring. Her face upturned to hers, felt as if he could pour out a lifetime's worth of love to her at this moment as his head began to pound with the thickness of the blood at this moment.

"Miss Caldwell, I should also like to consider you a good friend," his voice lowered as his face neared hers. Until only a fingers width between their nose. "I do not know what is more intoxicating, the rum, the flowers, or yourself. I dearly want to kiss you," speaking his mind as their faces edged close. Alexander wanted to do right by her, but would risk it all, right now, for a touch of those lips upon his own.
 
She was perhaps a little weary of the information on what they were planning to do to the Loyalists in Boston since that is where they had all gone. Even if this was a war, it did not seem like what they were doing was entirely right. Then, she had a feeling that the British were not entirely in the right either on both parts. It’s not like this was all so sudden and out of the blue, her father having been an official had been bothered about this for years. And the recent attack had been the worse and had truly scared the Caldwell family. Perhaps, with his information… she would be of help.

She was also feeling a warmth in her cheeks like no other… Good Lord, she hoped that she was not drunk. She did not feel drunk but then, a lady did not get drunk. Her mother would have a fit if she knew what Eleanor was doing right at this moment. She was blushing… and she felt embarrassed but also, she was feeling bold. “Please… do call me, Eleanor.” She said softly knowing that this was entirely improper but she also feeling the lightness in her head. Was it the punch, the fragrance of the flowers or was it him that had her acting like a silly girl?


Well, she did not want the answer as she leaned up a little and it was in those moments that their lips met. It was not her first kiss, but this kiss was a little different from the other kisses that she had had in the past. It was not a friend of her brothers who had stolen a kiss only to be knocked out by her older brother for his deed. Nor was it Thomas Dooly’s fish lips of a kiss. Lord, but his kiss could have made her never want to kiss a man again.

No, this was a nice kiss. Certainly, not too soft or wet and not too hard enough. She felt herself leaning herself more into the kiss in the exchange. Her eyelids fluttering shut as she had her hand on his chest for a bit of support. Eleanor wanted more but she did not know what exactly she wanted. Oh lord… those thoughts were not the right ones as she tried to think of the kiss… focusing on that as her mind was racing.
 
Alexander closed his eyes as their lips met, it was not his first. One or two others had been stolen from dances in the past, and when he was younger one of his cousins had wanted to see what it was about and recruited him. She was slightly older and had cornered him to understand it, yet this was different. It was like a spark touched him and ignited his heart. For a long moment their lips touched and he wanted that moment to last forever, moist, soft lips on his and the longer they rested together the warmer he felt himself become. A tingle rested on his lips, a feeling of excitement, arousal and a thousand other emotions that sprung up in his thoughts as he lost himself in that small touch.

As she leaned in to him and her hand touched his chest his heart skipped another beat. Oh dear lord, he thought, how does she make me feel like this? To take everything I am and throw it away just to make her happy, he had never been in love, at least not like this. Savoring each moment, the touch of her against him, her lips on his and the soft breath that touched his cheek as she breathed heavy next to him.

After what seemed an eternity they slowly pulled back, their eyes opening and looking at each other. A blush rose on his cheek as his mouth and lips suddenly felt dry. At first he feared he had overstepped himself, but as he looked at her face knew that there was something between them, a connection that he had no imagined. His lips quivered for a moment as he was unsure what to say, instead he smiled as he looked down at her.

"Miss Caldwell, Eleanor," he cleared his throat, "I do wish to monopolize more of your time, but I do not wish to cause a stir with your parents. Especially if I am to come visit you," feeling more of a gentleman now though he desperately wanted another kiss. Offering his arm, "shall we return before you are missed?"
 
There was a bit of her that was a little sad that the kissing and flirtation had to stop. Well, she supposed that she was lucky that he was a gentleman because she was certainly not acting like a lady. Her eyes on him almost in an innocent manner as she nodded a few times. There was a feeling of disbelief because she was outside and yet, she was feeling quite warm still now that they had pulled away from each other. Her cheeks went a pink colour as she smiled and said, “I suppose that you are right… tis a pity really but people must be wondering where I went off to.” She looked behind her for a moment.

“It was really lovely.” She said with a smile so he knew that she was still interested. Well, he could think that she was perhaps an easy sort. She was going to have to be on her guard and there was the matter of the information that she had gathered that evening without really trying.

“Yes, we should go inside.” She said softly as he offered his arm to escort her towards the inside. Of course, her mind was racing with thoughts of what he was thinking but also about why she had been so bold. She truly ought not to have been but she had as she was walking with him.

“Lieutenant Gage…” She said quietly. “You will not tell anyone of our exchange?” She asked softly of him hoping that he would be kind and not tell other gentlemen of her unladylike behaviour of kissing him… and having been so bold in knowing what she wanted. Not considered a good quality in a lady.

Perhaps, she was still feeling light headed from the rum?
 
As they made their way back to the dance floor Alexander slowed for a moment and stopped. Looking into her eyes, greatly desiring a kiss, wanted to let her know so much. "Eleanor, I do want to say so much to you. I have never felt this way about another, and while I want to spend every waking moment with you and monopolize your time I do not want to press my advantage." He knew what a small town Cambridge was, and with the Siege going on across the river there was still gossip in most salons and parlors of many in the town, he did not want that for Eleanor. "I want to do right by you, meet your parents and have them approve," he spoke earnestly not wanting to embarrass her. "Don't think I want to leave your presence, I do not, but I also do not want to make you a target for unscrupulous tongues," he took her hand and kissed it as passionately as he could.

Smiling as he stood, straightened his uniform and escorted her back to the dance floor and to her parents. Introducing himself politely, though he saw his arrival with Eleanor brought on a questioning, and not too approving raise of the eyebrows from her mother. Her father recognizing him was more cordial. With some polite asking after their welfare, and some apologies for the incident attempted to make amends by offering some of his fathers services at cost as needed, knowing it would not endear him to his father for a time. Though if it meant a prospect of marriage Alexander was sure it could be arranged. When appropriate he took his leave and walked back to camp.

Masters was already returned and in bed, his odd snore echoed in the tent as he undressed in the light of a candle by his bedsode. Hammond was nowhere to be seen, Alexander smiled knowing, or guessing, what he thought his fellow officer might be up to. Yet, all that was on Alexander's mind was Eleanor. Her face filled his dreams as he lay his head to sleep. The kiss echoed against his skin again, the warmth of her lips, the sweetness of her breath, came back to him. Waking with the feeling of her lips against his in the morning he came awake around dawn to the sound of a cacophony of noise from Masters and Hammond who were still deeply asleep. The day passed as he drilled the men, on occasion touching his lips and imagining Eleanor again, the memory of that kiss brought a flush to his cheeks and a warmth to his heart.

As they ate lunch in the officers mess Capt Williams stood up afterwards and addressed those present, "gentlemen. It seems that our friends across the water will soon be running out of supplies, which means they will be looking for some depots nearby. The closest that we know of are on the islands, we don't know if they will try, but we need you to get your men ready to march tomorrow for a better position to move across the harbor."
 
Mother did not approve and as they were riding back in the carriage to their home, she made this known as she was sitting across from her sister who was behind their mother. “Eleanor, he is a Rebel.” She said with a narrowed eye at her daughter. “To be courted by a Patriot when your brothers are both in the Royal Navy…” She was fluttering her fan furiously as she looked to the middle daughter, Fannie. “Do not even think of being court by those Rebel soldiers, you can dance with them to not draw attention but…”

“Mother, still your tongue when we are not in the house.” She said softly as her father glanced at her, “My dears… we do need to be careful for perhaps the sake of the family.” He was saying about himself because he had been the one almost taken away by a mob to be tarred and feathers. “Well, perhaps if we had gone back to England like we should have when all the misery started. However, here we are because you got a position that you do not hold anymore. Now, you have to tutor and… we are barely getting by.” Her mother said, “I could have married a Viscount but I settled for you!” She called as everyone got silent in the carriage as it was rocking back and forth.

It was an uncomfortable silence for the rest of the ride home but she knew that Betsy would be eagerly up with Aunt Susan who most likely had let her stay up so they could all talk about the ball with the youngest Caldwell sisters.

Tomorrow, she would write her letter to her older brother about the information that she had found about the Patriots and have it sent off with a letter of well wishes so that it would not be detected. Once they were inside, Mama complained about tired and went up the steps to retire to her own room. As for the two younger sisters shared a room and Eleanor was given her own once Arthur and Andrew had gone off to the Navy. Her parents were in different rooms and had been seen she could remember. Their marriage was not one of love… father had once been wealthy before gambling it away in England. Arthur had told her but it was something that they did repeat to anyone for any reason.

She went to her own room to undress and her sisters both came in mostly because Betsy wanted to hear all about it and Fannie wanted to tell about all the gentlemen that she had danced with and how she was sure that she would be married off in little time. “Certainly not to a Patriot…” She said pointedly at her sister, Eleanor who looked to her sister. “Come now, I am not interested in him but if I can play on his heart then there could be some added protection for the family.” She said with a narrowed gaze.

“Mother would be upset.” Betsy said softly. “Mother is a bit of a fool.” She muttered as Fannie said one of the Ten Commandments and Eleanor sighed. “I am just trying to make it so Father is not carted off again. Perhaps, we could even get him deceive employment and we will no longer have to live in poverty.” She said to the other girls. “Not a word to Mother… that is you Betsy.” She said sternly at their mother’s favourite.
 
Alexander clutched the basket tightly in his hand, trying to shake off the anger that crept up his neck with the flush of blood. A vision of Eleanor calmed him momentarily as he adjusted the back and slowed his steps and his breath, turning onto her street and seeing the house ahead of him almost stopped. For the next day he could do nothing but think and talk of Eleanor, feeling her hand in his and the press of her lips against his. When the sergeant came over and warned him about Eleanor, almost trying to scare him off, that had made him mad. Putting the man on detail he spent his time alternately engrossed in sweet dreams of her, and angry at Sergeant Dooley at speaking to him of Eleanor. As if he had a right to do so.

Tucking the cloth over the basket his hand rubbed over the contents, unsure what to take he had told his father that he was interested in a girl. That had perked his father out of his usual work stupor, though he had not divulged who it was yet, unsure of how his parents would react. Alexander felt himself doing many things out of his character for Eleanor, though the memories of her were sweet and they calmed him, he felt slightly guilty about keeping her secret from his family. He hoped the bottle of brandy and the sweet fruits would be appropriate gifts for her parents, a small bolt of cloth and some rolls of colored thread for her mother. All easily taken from the family warehouse, father had even suggested a good brandy hoping for a family that Alexander suggested would be socially appropriate, distracted by business father had let him go with the bottle and permission to take a few things from the warehouse.

The small bottle of perfume for Eleanor was the only extravagance that he was unsure of, he thought it appropriate, she was cultured and elegant. The smell of fruits and something else, but the sweet allure of it reminded him of her. Remembering there were other siblings had brought a small bag of candies for her sisters, thinking if they were like his younger sister they would appreciate them. Dressed in his suit and best boots, a personal call required something other than the uniform, as proud as he was of it. Tomorrow he had to be on patrol in Boston Harbor he wanted the uniform fresh and clean, ready for when he returned to camp later in the day. Finding his feet had moved on their own while his thoughts had taken as his eyes cleared and he found himself before the new door of the Caldwells.

Admiring the quick fit and replacement of the door it improved his thoughts of Eleanor, swiftly she was able to bring the house back to normality. A no-nonsense type, Alexander liked girls who could use their heads, and having beauty like Eleanor did was a gift he could not ignore. Pulling the coat and vest tight to himself, not the fanciest suit, but practical in its dark hues the suit was his best and usually his church clothes, a visit such as this required his finest. Alexander did want to make an impression so tried to come prepared.

Knocking on the door he waited impatiently as the long moments stretched out before him. Footfalls within echoed the beating of his heart that began to race, the creak of the door as it opened seemed to break the spell. He stood breathing and sweating, the nervousness melted away as he suddenly felt committed. As the servant opened the door he stood tall and straight, bowing slightly, "good afternoon, is Miss Eleanor at home?"
 
The information that Alexander had given her so readily had been put onto paper in a secret code and put in an envelope along with a few other messages from her sisters, mother and father for Arthur. It was risky but they were a family who wanted to send word to the beloved oldest son and child of the household. She was not expecting anyone when the knock came to the front door. She had been in the kitchen helping with the preparation for the light lunch that the family was going to have. Funds were getting a little tight, she was sure that she would need to speak to father and mother about letting the servants go. They were not slaves, and because of that… they were not able to pay them as easily. It would be up to herself and Aunt Susan to work on making the meals and things like cleaning or… lord, this was going to become a lot harder than they thought. Well, perhaps… they could look into teaching some of their skills or… well, they needed to find genteel work.

She was wearing one of her simple gowns with an apron since she was kneading dough. She was covered with flour, the result of her learning practical skills in case life was not roses as they were used to in their lives. Eleanor wanted to get pass this tough time… It was then that their handyman who asked as a footman at time came into the kitchen. “Miss Eleanor, there is a gentleman at the door.” He mentioned as she looked up and nodded. “Tell him that he only wait a few moments…” She mentioned as she went to wash up a little.

Her father was the first to greet the Captain. “Ah, Captain Gage… it is good to see you again.” He said coming down the stairs to offer a handshake. There were giggles from above the stairs and a hushing from their mother. “Eleanor is just helping in the kitchen this afternoon.” Her father mentioned as Eleanor came out that moment looking animated and flushed. “Captain Gage…” She supposed she ought to call him Alexander but she felt a little embarrassed about it in front of her parents.

“Do come in…” The handyman had taken his coat and hat to place on a coat rack as she welcomed him into the parlour. They could be a bit alone for a few moments before the family would join them. “I am so happy to see you again, Alexander.” She smiled hearing the footsteps above them of her sisters and mother.
 
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