Page 163 of A Winter By the Sea
Sarah looked up at him in surprise. “Might you not wish to give the flowers to your mother?”
“I should like you to have them. A small memento of my gratitude.”
“Very well. Thank you. We shall put them to good use.”
Selwyn During proceeded down the line.
“Godspeed, Mr. During,” Mamma said. “I will be praying for your family. May the Lord protect them until you can.”
“Thank you, ma’am. That means more than you know.”
Emily handed him a small book of verse. “Something to pass the time on the journey.”
“Thank you, Miss Emily.”
Mr. Thomson shook his hand, then handed him an envelope. “I managed to pry my back pay from the captain as well as yours.”
“James, I ... I can’t accept this.”
“Of course you can. If my family were in dire straits, I know you would do the same. And one more thing.” Thomson handed him a folded letter. “I’ve taken the liberty of writing you a character reference. I hope you understand that I did not mention your time as plate keeper. But I would not wish your excellent performance as the royal family’s table-decker to go unrecognized.”
“I understand perfectly. And I am obliged to you.”
Next Mr. Bernardi stepped forward. Had he prepared some food for his departing colleague as Sarah had? Instead, hehanded over an assortment of notes and coins. “And here are my wages as well. Minus what I owe Miss Summers for sugar. I hope it will help you gain your family’s release.”
“Good heavens. I don’t know what to say.” Selwyn During’s voice thickened, and tears brightened his eyes. “I am humbled and unworthy and exceedingly grateful.”
Sarah felt her own eyes fill in reply.
The scene reminded her of God’s amazing compassion. In His immeasurable mercy, He not only forgave His children but blessed them in ways beyond anything they could imagine or begin to deserve.
Hand pressed to his heart, Mr. During gave them a final bow, and then hurried away to catch his coach.
———
A short while later, Mr. Bernardi gathered his bag and valise, ready to join the other staff leaving Sidmouth that day.
On his way out, he stopped and gripped Sarah’s hand. “Good-bye, Miss Summers. While I am sorry to be taking my leave of you, I am also grateful to you. My brief time here has made me a better man. If I open that French and Italian restaurant, you shall be the first person I invite.”
“I would be most honored,” Sarah replied. “All the best, Mr. Bernardi. God bless you.”
After he left, she joined Emily, Georgiana, and Mr. Thomson at the hall windows to watch the many participants gather for the procession.
As the troops in their various uniforms took their places, Mr. Thomson identified them.
There were forty dragoons from Exeter, fifty yeomanry, and fifty of the king’s troops. They wore black scarfs, and their caps were covered in crepe.
Next, the town band assembled, a group of local amateur musicians. The hearse and mourning coach were positionedbehind them, followed by coaches to carry the duke’s family and attendants.
Then the entire Sea View household, including Mr. Hornbeam, Mr. Gwilt, and the other servants, put on their coats and walked to the end of the drive to watch the royal procession from there.
———
Emily stood close to Mr. Thomson, wanting to draw out every possible moment by his side.
At about nine o’clock on that damp February morning, the procession began to move—first the yeomanry two by two. Then came four riders all in black, with their horses covered in black as well. Then came the town band playing the “Dead March” on bugles and trumpets, which sounded very fine indeed. Then came the mourning coach, carrying the coffin containing the heart. Then came the hearse with the Duke of Kent’s arms emblazoned in gold on the side. The hearse was drawn by eight horses covered in black velvet with black plumes on their heads.
A trio of family carriages followed, the first carrying the nurse and infant princess, who gazed at the crowds with an oblivious, cheerful countenance, her little hand against the glass. The Duchess of Kent and Prince Leopold were in the second carriage, followed by John Conroy and a few others in the third.
