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Fervier 1600 Still Only Une Crown Jacques Armand Dijon Editor Announcements Deadline: 5 August 2005 11:59 PM EST ORDERS Deadline: 7 August 2005 11:59 PM EST
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Quiet Court The King sat quietly in Paris in January. His mind was perhaps on pressing matters and the recent confusion around the military movements that seem to have shifted. But none the less, Henri is certainly willing to listen to advisors and make the best of things. A new face at court this month is the Captain of the Cardinal's Escort. Tomās de Tainquengin was on hand to ensure His Grace's safety and lost no time in doing a fine job. It seems that a gate was left open that would lead directly to the Cardinal's rooms. But the good Captain found the gate as an interloper was in the passage. Alas, it turned out only to be a lady in waiting. However, the vigilance was there. Word has it that Minister Scully was greatly pleased and that his Captain's name is known to him. Captain Tainquengin is not one to let an opportunity go by was sure to bring his new mistress Lucy. No one ever said that duty at the palace had to be boring. She accompanied him for the full half of the month he was attending His Grace and was on hand when in the latter portion of the month, the new Provincial Governor of Loire, the Chevalier Luc le Canard-Jaune, late of Paris came to court to make his gracious acceptance of the position. The governor brought with him his new mistress Ineta. The four were seen several times in laughter and mirth around the grounds. But yet, the court was quiet. The understanding of this editor is that in the coming month, the King is going to Versailles and his Grace is remaining here in Paris. Word has it that a governmental meeting is being called. No doubt this is to plan the coming military campaign. In February, it is my understanding that His Majesty, King Henri IV will be retiring to Verailles. In the third week he plans to hold a meeting with his cabinet to attend to governmental matters. All Governors and Ministers should attend. The first battalion of the Royal Foot Guards shall attend him. Cardinal Minister Sully has announced that he will remain in Paris. Governor Noted and Notable While most of the time I do not find the appointment of the governors of the provinces noteworthy, being really just government men dealing in government matters that I know little about and care even less, this time a tale did take some note to my ears. A newcomer to Paris, the Chevalier Luc le Canard-Jaune impressed his Majesty with a rumoured kindness. The King had been disposed to appoint a more experienced man to the post, but the compassion and decisiveness with which Chevalier le Canard-Jaune dealt with the matter, when it reached King Henri's ears, he changed his mind and appointed the young man. No doubt were his father yet living, the elder le Canard-Jaune would be proud of his son. Although I have sought out the sources of these rumours, I can find little nor will any speak of the deed itself. It seems that the man picked fr the task is indeed good at picking men himself as no information seems available. I shall yet to endeavor. Often I find that liqour shall ply a man's lips when money will not. In celebration, the new Governor Loire took his mistress, the kind Ineta, and went shopping for a new mansion which I am told he obtained for a handsome price. Not that he remained there. He was to be found at Court later in the month where the couple was seen hobnobbing with the Captain of the Cardinal's Escort, Tomās de Tainquengin and the influential mistress Lucy. And he was a fixture on the scene as well. I think that the Chevalier Governor le Canard-Jaune will be a force in governing France, especially Loire, in a fine, fair, and kind manner. I hope the others do the same. It is my understanding that in February, the Minister of War and the Field Marshall will be appointing the Army Commanders and Adjutant General as well as the Inspector Generals once the Army is determined for the upcoming campaign. The Pope is due to install a new Inquisitor. I'm sure that the Royal Chamberlain will be dealing with the Master of the Hunt and the King of the Seals while the King appoints the Royal Steward at Verailles. The new Director of the Fencing Schools is due to place Instructors in the Fencing Schools this month. Great and Grande There were three parties in January, only three. But, never let quantity serve as a substitute for quality. The Comte Robespierre O'Rielly, Chevalier Governor Luc le Canard-Jaune, and Denis de Dumonde held parties at the Rose and Crown, Bothwell's and the Red Phillips. While all went well for the most part, I think there might be some unhappy with the results. Frankly, while I enjoyed the events, I think they could have done better if the military wasn't so stressed at the moment. There are really too many men in Paris that don't belong to one regiment or another. It is leaving the ponts quite empty. The first party of the month was that of the Chevalier Governor Luc le Canard-Jaune. Governor le Canard-Jaune and his mistress Ineta hosted events at Bothwell's. It was well attended by Thierry Arriviste and Diane who managed to arrive just before the manager closed the door to Bothwell's upper chambers. Jose Negron brought the beautiful April. Denis de Dumonde attended happily. Jacques Inzabox left his home to be present. Alphonse Delgrise, also much in his apartment made his way. Pom de Terre escorted the lovely Helene. And Major Robespierre O'Rielly appeared as a prelude to his party later in the month with the prize catch Julienne on his arm. The party was a wonderful start to the season, but it was Pom de Terre that truly showed a touch of class brining his host an expensive bottle of claret as a gift. Denis de Dumonde hosted the second party of the month at the Red Philips. While less attended, it too was a pleasant intimate gathering. Lyrrad Devergonde left his regimental duties to be present. Pom de Terre and Helene made their presence known. Thierry Arriviste left the gym and brought Diane who was grateful for a reason to get out. No doubt the low attendance was due to the late scheduling of the event. But then Monsieur de Dumonde only late came into the money to fund such a celebration. The last celebration of the month was that of Compte Major Robespierre O'Rielly of the Dragoon Guard. He and Julienne offered their hospitality in opening up the Rose and Crown to their guests. Nearly all of Paris turned out for the event. The new governor with Ineta and Tomās de Tainquengin with Lucy came fresh from court. Jose Negron made his appearance with April showering him with affection. Denis de Dumonde made it with the other unescorted gentlemen, Lyrrad Devergonde, Alphonse Delgrise and Jacques Inzabox. Pom de Terre and Helene showed proving to be the social butterflies by making all three parties in the month. However it is Thierry Arriviste who arrived late and from which unsavory quarter is not certain. He came unescorted and proceeded to make comments that were unpleasant and unsettling to the Chevalier Governor Luc le Canard-Jaune. It is hoped that Arriviste will not be planning any time in Loire in the near future. The Rose and Crown is thought to have taken offense at some of the friends O'Rielly allowed within their walls. But that is only a rumour and hold little worth in my esteem. Let us see what next month brings. Le Grande Amoure What a grande show was made on the doorsteps of the ladies of Paris in January. Many of the good men saw fit to walk and ride through the snow and fight bitter cold for the warm welcome of the good ladies. They did not find sorrow in their missions finding almost exclusively welcome and attendant receptions. The most fair Helene found upon her step, Pom de Terre. Monsieur de Terre commissioned a wondrous ship model sailing ship. No doubt he had an old poem in mind by the poet Homer concerning another Helen. Whilst it is unknown if the lady Helene was named for that beauteous maiden, it is certain that Helene has a face to launch a thousand ships or more and more. I know not if Monsieur de Terre spoke these words to Helene, but she did find the gift and the man to her liking. The pair soon found themselves on the boating pond where Monsieur de Terre wished to launch a ship of his own. Jose Negron found a similar a similar reception in his new mistress April whom he escorted the entire month to Chevalier Governor le Canard-Jaune's party and Compte Major Robespierre O'Reilly's party late in the month. The Compte Major found favor in the lady Julienne and escorted her the entirety of the month. Lady Ineta was showered with presents by the new Governor Luc le Canard-Jaune. No doubt his new status had little to do with winning her favour. Lyrrad Devergonde found himself making the best of all worlds. No sooner did he arrive in Paris than he stopped by the Ladies Slipper to put his name on the rolls. The new major of the Royal Marines performed duties in the first half of January and then found time to woo the wondrous Eva. Attending Denis de Dumonde's party at the Red Phillips and Compte O'Reilly's Rose and Crown sans Eva, Major Devergonde soon found himself visiting his club for some much needed rest and relaxation. Captain Tomās de Tainquengin found less luck with Lucy in his first turn at her door. But the following weekend turned favourable. Perhaps he spoke of his need to attend court in the middle of the month that won her But she was soon at court and enjoying herself with the Governor of Loire and his mistress Ineta. A few found other means to find comfort in Paris. The bawdyhouses were not without attendance though I never have need of their services. I witnessed Denis de Dumonde's arrival at their door and I am sure I saw Jacques Inzabox leaving. As I was having a short repost of port, I caught a glimpse of Alphonse Delgrise passing through the doors. Ebbs and Swells The winter has not been good to the military. There have been a number of deaths and retirements in the regiments. This has left the command a bit lacking. Luckily, almost all of the regiments are home and the officers are available to fill the positions on short notice. Many of the majors and captains while sad to see their superiors go are quite happy to take over for them. Of major note was newcomer Justin le Fey who managed his way into the Royal Foot Guard as 2nd Major. There has been some word that the retiring 1st Major may have been convinced that it was time for him to retire as he was getting up in age. No sooner had the ink dried on his commission, Major le Fey volunteered the 3rd Company of the Royal Foot Guard for the Front. At least he is moving south where it is warmer. As many losses in the numbers of officers we have suffered, we have also gained. Denis de Dumonde found a Captaincy available to him in Picardy Musketeers. The Royal Marines acquainted Lyrrad Devergonde with a Majority in their ranks. Meanwhile, the Compte Robespierre O'Reilly applied himself to the Dragoon Guard. Not only did they accept him, but they issued the Compte a Majority as is befitting his rank. I am sure that they will serve the King and France in the upcoming summer campaign. It is expected in February that the Minister of War and the Field Marshall shall begin deciding the army organization for the summer. Luck was not on the side of Jose Negron. He applied himself to the Crown Prince Curiassiers. The Colonel, however, saw matters differently. Thus, Jose Negron found himself without a regiment. Likewise Alphonse Delgrise found himself turned away by both the Royal Marines and the Picardy Musketeers. Cold Swords The bitter cold of winter could not stop the men of Paris from finding ladies to warm them, but their blades were another matter. The early morning air while crisp was silent. Certainly the surgeons and doctors have earned a respite. I was unhappy to be at Compte major O'Reilly's party at the Rose and Crown when I overheard a very drunk Theirry Arrviste make a most unkind remark to Chevalier Governor Luc de Canard-Jaune. The insult escalated into a light shoving match. Luckily the party was very well attended and they were quickly parted. However, I should think we should see a challenge for the slight. Par Le Seine The comings and going were few other than the regiments and the parties. The winter always brings so few to Paris as it is warm at home in the provinces in front of the hearths or better yet in the hayloft with the provincial ladies. But, a few did come. I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of two nobles entering Paris. The Comte Robespierre O'Reilly entered the city. If he is willing, I hope to do a biography piece on the good man next month. He wasted no time in finding a regiment and a position as 2nd Major in the Dragoon Guard and a mistress in the very desireable Lady Julienne. Likewise, the Chevalier Luc de Canard- Jaune found a position through some act of kindness as the Provincial Governor of Loire. On his arm he was quick to add Lady Ineta who accompanied him to make a purchase of a small mansion. No doubt for the parties he intends to hold. Of course, nobles were not the only ones arriving in Paris. Justin le Fey arrived briefly and managed to secure a position as 2nd Major of the Royal Foot Guard. No sooner had he done so that he took them off to the front. One wonders if he is a true military man or if he has some ambition higher up in the ranks. Tomās de Tainquengin made his way to improve his footwork at Madame Duschene's. He is not inept when dancing so perhaps he just wanted to spent more time holding Lucy close as she accompanied him to the School of Social Graces late in the month. In other places, Pom de Terre was seen sharpening his skill with his chosen weapon, the cutlass. Meanwhile, Thierry Arriviste spent his time in the gym developing his strength. He might have well use of it considering his behaviour at the Rose and Crown and Chevalier le Canard-Jaune. Truly I found the month quiet. But, February is a month of lovers and it usually brings a few gentlemen into Paris looking for love. After all, this is France, we love, we romance and we dance. A Mysterious Envelope in a Slow Month I am sure that the lending houses appreciate the rest, but I heard grumblings in the clubs regarding lost interest. That's not to say that they did no business. Denis de Dumonde and Alphonse Delgrise both found themselves in need of some extra cash. Likewise, the Director of the Lottery reported that ticket were extremely low in January. No doubt that a great deal of money was spent on the parties and festivities of the holiday season. I know I was invited to more parties than I could attend and each and every one was more lavish than the one before. The Lottery currently stands at 250 Crowns. The real story is in Denis de Dumonde. As he told it, he was awoken early one morning. He figures it to be about six de matin as the sky was paling and he swears he heard a cock crow. A knock at his apartment door had brought him out of his slumber. Hastily and angrily grabbing his robe he made his way to the door. The knock was a man, holding close his coat against the cold and tight onto an envelope. The man asked de Dumonde's name and when satisfied shoved the envelope in his hand. As Monsieur de Dumonde opened the envelope and saw what was inside, he came to shock. It was enough time for the man to make his escape. de Dumonde tried to chase him down to the street, but it was of no use. The mysterious stranger was gone. Monsieur de Dumonde said he asked about the envelope but was told that no information could be given. What a shock to be handed 200 crowns and no one to thank. In My Own Words I am sure I don't know why so many of the gentlemen in Paris sat home instead of being out amongst the people. Perhaps it was some confusion from their previous provincial lives and they did not realize that Paris is a city that never sleeps. I expect that February should be different as the men of Paris make better use of their weeks and weekends. I suspect it is because they have taken much for granted and not done the reading necessary to fully take place in Parisian life. Until next time, Adieu.
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