Renton Junior (Part 3 of 3)

Chapter    41

I sent James off in the Roller to collect Amanda and take her direct to the City Airport. I had an appointment in the City, following which, caught the light railway line to the airport in time to meet Amanda. A buzz in my mobile informed me that James would be at the prearranged place to meet me off the train. “James, take us through the usual channel. We only have ten minutes before take-off and we have to go through the formalities,” I said to James through the open car window.

“Plenty of time Renton. I’ve already handed over Miss Amanda’s passport at the gate and also yours, so all the formalities are under way already. Now jump in and I’ll have you there in a jiffy.”

“Wow! You look fab Amanda,” I exclaimed as I leaped into the back, slamming the door.

“All for you Renton.”

“I hope James has been looking after you?”

“Perfectly Renton. Plying me with champagne and warning me about you. It seems as if I have to be on my guard against young men like you. By the way, why aren’t we going to the main terminal to check in?”

“I’ve arranged special transport for you Amanda. A Lear Jet, especially for you darling.”

“You’re joking?”

“No, I’m not. That’s why James is taking us to the private part of the airfield.”

“And you always crying of poverty, chartering a jet just for me?”

“Well, not quite. The owner is currently holidaying in the South of France and needed the jet positioning for the return journey. You’ll meet him over the weekend and his wife. I saw that gold digger glint in your eyes. He’s spoken for I’m afraid.”

“Shame but I’ll get over it. Is there anybody else on the flight Renton?”

“I doubt it. Just me, thee, two pilots and maybe an attendant or two, to look after us.”

“How do you do it Renton. How do you get people offering you free flights in their private jets? I don’t know how you do it?”

“I sold him one of our prestige apartments and he invited me to join them on the Med.”

“Sorry to break in chaps,” interrupted James, “You need to disembark now. We are at the Customs, stroke Emigration point. The flight is just parked over there. Have fun. I’ll be waiting for you on Sunday.” With that he flung open the door with a flourish for Amanda, whilst I had to let myself out. A uniformed officer handed me our passports with a clipped ‘Enjoy your flight’ whilst ogling Amanda unashamedly. The pilot introduced himself and offered to wheel Amanda’s huge case to the plane.

“Have you got the kitchen sink in there Amanda?”

“I travel prepared for anything. Since you were coy on our doings this weekend, I have outfits for all eventualities. Not like you Renton. You’ve one small leather bag that can hardly fit a toothbrush. That’s taking things too far the other way. Even Suzy said she was amazed how you got away in the Far East carrying so little.”

“There are such things called ‘shops’ around most places. One just pops in and replenishes the essentials.”

“Essentials for me Renton are more numerous than essentials for you or haven’t you noticed?”

“Amanda, you look gorgeous and if a pantechnicon is needed to keep you that way then I’ll have it sent over post haste.”

“Now don’t take the piss Renton. I have to work hard to look glamorous for you.”

“Welcome aboard Mr. Renton and Miss Amanda. Let me show you to your seats for take off. We’ll be taking off in five minutes. We will be serving you lunch soon after takeoff, in the dining room at the back,” announced a rather fetching stewardess, showing us to our seats.

“Thanks Lynda, we know the ropes.”

“How did you know her name? Do you know her?” whispered Amanda.

“First time we met. She has her name written on her badge, simple Amanda!”

“Oh!”

 As we were strapping ourselves in, the pilot looked out of the cockpit and shouted, “All aboard the skylark for Nice. Enjoy the trip folks. I’ll come and join you later,” and he slammed his door to. The two stewardesses strapped themselves in the seats in front of us as the engines started to whine. 

 “Just be aware we will be going up in a steep climb to reach cruising height,” said the other stewardess, leaning over to us, “Not like Commercial flights where they take ages.” The plane taxied onto the runway and was in the air before Amanda had settled in her seat.

“Why does it take so long on BA to take off? I have to spend two hours at the airport before take-off. We’ve only been here no longer than ten minutes.”

“That’s the beauty of private planes Amanda. That’s what these people pay top dollar for.”

“When I’m rich I’m going to buy one of these and fly my friends everywhere Renton.”

“Is that next year Amanda?”

“Don’t be cheeky. Not next year but I have a feeling all will go well for me, business wise, especially since I teamed up with your outfit. Best thing I ever did getting to know you Renton.”

“You folks can move into the lounge now. I shall bring you some drinks in a moment,” announced the other stewardess.

“And your name is?” asked Amanda.

“Hazel,” she answered fingering her lapel badge. “We are fully stocked today so we can offer you a wide choice, meat or fish? The Maine lobster is amazing.”

“We’ll have the cold lobster salad and a bottle of your Chablis please Hazel.”

“Yes Mr. Renton and would you like some Foie gras, for a starter, fresh from Dordogne, not that horrible, tinned stuff they peddle these days.”

“That would be very welcome Hazel and please just call me Renton.”

“Sure thing Renton. What champagne would you like?”

“Thanks Hazel but we’ll just stick to a glass of Chablis please,” I answered as she swung away towards the galley area.

“How do you do it Renton. You order for me without any consultation and instead of being aggrieved I feel like the Queen.”

“A number of reasons Amanda. Firstly, Hazel suggested a menu which was probably simple to do and they had plenty in stock. Secondly, I wouldn’t want to abuse the owner by ordering outrageous things. These people live a simple if not a luxurious lifestyle and I wouldn’t like to show ourselves up as boors.”

“I learn something new everyday from you Renton. I’m going to enjoy my cup of wine instead of champagne.”

“On this flight it will come in cut glass Amanda.” We were served a glass of chilled Chablis in the lounge area, accompanied by blinis with smoked salmon, generously sprinkled with fat balls of caviar. Halfway through our glass Lynda invited us to the dining room for our lunch, set with fine china and silverware.

“I expect this is better than BA First Class Renton!” said Amanda looking quite astonished.

“It is Amanda and so will be the food. Thanks Lynda.”

“A pleasure Renton. Our Captain Edwards will be joining you shortly. That’s why it’s set for three.”

“Who’s going to be flying the plane?” asked a concerned Amanda.

“No worries there. The plane flies itself most of the time anyway, on automatic pilot and we do have a co-pilot who spends most of the time reading adult horror comics. Please be seated and I’ll bring you your glasses. Hazel will bring you your first course shortly.” Captain Edwards joined us.

“Glad to meet you both at last. Our busiest time is at takeoff and landings and unfortunately, we have to ignore our guests. It’s a little cramped here with the big table. Our boss uses this as his conference room and it also doubles up as a bedroom if need be. Now enjoy your meal. The girls have done something special for us I believe.” The first course was thin slices of lightly sautéed foie gras served with delicate slices of melba toast and a light onion relish.

“Do you live like a Lord all the time Captain?”

“I’m afraid not Amanda. Only on repositioning flights and when we have non business passengers. I wouldn’t fit in my flight seat if I ate like this all the time. Usually, it’s a curled-up sandwich and bottle of water. The girls are often too busy to attend to the crew.”

“The boss asked me to remind you Renton that you are expected for lunch at his villa on Sunday. He will send a car to pick you up at eleven. We have a tight schedule on the way back and we can’t afford to miss our slot.”

“Understood Captain. We’ll be ready on time, won’t we Amanda?” who nodded as she enjoyed a mouthful of the delicious starter.

“I understand you speak French well Renton. You see, we have a problem with our maintenance people at Nice airport, Nice Air Services. They were supposed to do some routine work on this jet this weekend but there was a mix up over the booking. The boss suggested that you could have a word with them when we land. It would be awfully helpful to get this work out of the way.”

“I’ll see what I can do but don’t count on it. I don’t have any influence in these things.”

“The boss reckons you could pull it off. Give it a try Renton. That’s all we can ask.”

“Fine. Can I use a phone on this flight? I need to call a friend who may advise me on these matters.”

“Use any of the cabin phones Renton. Punch in the Country code and you’re away. Now let’s enjoy these Maine lobsters that I brought over the other day, still alive and kicking. I lied to the boss that they wouldn’t keep till Sunday. Real shame to throw them away.”

On landing, the plane taxied to the parking bay where a crew carrier was patiently waiting. Amanda and I, with our luggage were driven to the Nice Air Services maintenance hanger.

“Right Amanda, I’m counting on you to create a bit of flirtatious distraction here, if you don’t mind. No need to over do it but I need the guys in there with their tongues lolling out to their ankles.”

“So, I’m to be the floozie on the plate then?” 

“That’s right Amanda but there’s no need to over do it. Just get their full attention.”

“Yes Boss!”

“Hi there! Can I speak to Jacques please,” I said in my most amiable French.

“I’m Jacques,” answered back a tall surly mechanic, leaning against a wall, cleaning his hands off on a rag and speaking through an unlit Galois stuck between his lips. “What do you want?” with all of his attention veering off towards Amanda who stood apart from me, gazing nowhere and looking decidedly bored.

“Marcel Langdon said I should speak to you personally.”

“Don’t know this ‘Marcel’,” he replied, taking the Galois out from his lips and emitting a piercing whistle directed towards the hanger.

“Marcel from the Casino. You service his aerobatic plane for him.”

“Oh, that ‘Marcel.’ You mean the Red Rocket. I know him well,” he answered with a modicum of interest and by this time four other guys in white overalls appeared and were ogling Amanda with greater interest. Amanda, who loves an audience, lifted her sunglasses, repositioned them on her hair, gave them a dazzling smile and continued her bored look again. “OK, what are you after?” he said without taking his eyes off Amanda. 

“We’ve just come in on the Lear Jet and there has been a problem over the service booking. I was hoping that we could come to some arrangement.”

“So, Captain Edwards has sent you over to do his dirty work for him has he?” Jacques answered, replacing the Galois and searching his pockets for a lighter, still not taking his eyes off Amanda. Realising that he never had a lighter, he removed the Galois, scratched his head and talking to me whilst full attention on Amanda, “Tell that no good Captain Edwards to talk to the tower, park his lousy jet on Priority One Bay in front of this hanger and I’ll see what I can do for him. At least it will save him some parking fees for the weekend.”

“Thanks, I’ll call him now,” I answered and cast a glance at Amanda who on queue, gave Jacques a dazzling smile that must have melted his heart.”

“Where are you two staying? Nice or Cannes?”

“We are staying at Alain’s place on the front in Cannes. He’s away in Dubai at the moment.”

“Ah, Alain the Oilman. We know him. Hey Hubert! You can go off shift and give these good people a lift to Alain’s place.” Hubert the mechanic quickly moved, stripping off his white overalls as he disappeared through the door. A few moment later we heard a V8 car engine burble into life and a huge American Cadillac pulled up outside. “Enjoy your stay and make sure you both come and visit us before takeoff on Sunday.” With that, I quickly escorted Amanda out of the office and into the sunshine, to be carried off to the sea front, in a green Cadillac, for some further adventures.

Hubert double parked the huge vehicle to a cacophony of French horns, lugged Amanda’s very large valise right to the lift doors and then pressing the lift button with a flourish. He announced his departure with the customary three kisses for Amanda, I got rigorous handshake and Amanda got a second course of kisses for good measure. Satisfied, he turned on his heels and walked straight into the glass door. With a befuddled smile, he pushed the door open, letting in the angry blare of horns, he managed a week hand wave and disappeared. The maid Lucille was waiting for us, handed over the keys and promptly left, pointing quickly to the champagne bucket on table. Amanda rushed in, flung off her high heels and rushed off to explore whilst I read the welcome message stuck to the fridge in the huge kitchen.

“Hey Amanda, Rick says you have to use the master bedroom and Lucille has made space in the wardrobe for you. Lucille will iron for you if you want. Did you hear that?” She rushed in panting.

“I hear it all loud and clear. What did you mean by ‘YOU!’ and ‘MASTER BEDROOM!’ I hope that was just a slip of the tongue Renton!” she said with false anger.

“I was just pointing out that there are other two bedrooms darling.”

“Sorry Renton, the second is out of bounds to you!”

“Understood. Now having finished your exploration you are invited onto the balcony where the butler, moi, will serve the lady champagne. This way madam.”

“That’s what I want to hear Renton; some subservience from you.” With that she flounced out onto the balcony and flopped into a comfortable sun-lounger. I followed with the cooler and two flutes and set them out on the table between the loungers.

“Now whilst you are relaxing, sipping vintage champagne provided by our host, I will tell you what amusements I have planned for this evening darling.”

“Fire away Renton as long as I can be Cinderella and slip back home here by midnight. I have other personal plans for you darling.”

“I can’t wait but I have promised that we visit my old friend Marcel, who helped us out with the jet thing.”

“I thought I did all that Renton?”

“You were marvellous but I thought you might be in need of belt and braces. I have booked a table at a small but special restaurant that you will like. French like to eat early so we need to be there before eight.”

“Plenty of time even for me Renton!”

“Good, but prior to that we need to call on Marcel and spend a reasonable amount of time with him. I haven’t seen him for ages.”

“How would you like me to dress darling? Formal or are we going into battle?”

“No more battles Amanda. You can dress how you like but I would prefer something showy I think.”

“Showy it is Renton. I will do myself up to the nines so that even you won’t recognise me. I have brought something special to wear tonight for you.”

“I look forward to it. Do you want help from Lucille? I can call her if you like.”

“No need Renton. There is a clothes steamer here should I need it and she can have the day off. Now top up my glass young man! I’m enjoying myself. Cheers Renton. I wish my old friends from Stratford could see me now. They just wouldn’t believe it.”

“To be honest Amanda, I don’t know much about your background. I didn’t know you hailed from the East End.”

“There’s lot you don’t know about me Renton and even more that you don’t want to know. It’s all pretty seedy I’m afraid.”

“Amanda, something has been bugging me about you and before there was never an opportunity to ask. Have you got problems with your eyes?”

“No, my eyesight is perfect. No glasses, not even contact lenses. Why do you ask?”

“I’ve never seen you read a book, only flick through magazines and you didn’t even pick up on the names on the ID badges the air hostesses were wearing.”

“Simple Renton. I can’t read or write. Never learned.”

“Sorry Amanda. I didn’t mean to pry and embarrass you.”

“Doesn’t embarrass me Renton, just an inconvenience like colour blindness. I just bunked off school all the time. Dad was too drunk to care and mum was too busy working to keep the family fed. I worked for my uncle in his pub and during the day went shoplifting in the West End. Made a fortune and put it all in the Post Office. I had no need for schooling. I learned everything at the coal face of life in the East End.”

“Weren’t you ever caught?”

“Too clever for that Renton. I was the organiser. I had a gang of eight to ten older women who did the taking. I just caused a diversion. Throw a magnificent tantrum or even poo in the aisle. That got half of the staff and all the security onto the scene and the women walked off with the goods. The women each paid me a tenner a time to be on my gang and I got a percentage from the fence.”

“But surely they cottoned onto your antics Amanda?”

“Do you know how many shops there are in London? It would take years to do each one. Anyway, I always changed the plan of attack. No two were the same. Do you know, that by the age of thirteen I had twelve thousand pounds in my Post Office piggy bank? I made the big mistake of blabbing about my wealth and me dad wanted to take it all away, so I left home.”

“What, left home at thirteen? Who took you in?”

“Mum was too busy or too drunk to look after me and an Aunt was supposed to take care of me but I looked after myself since I could walk and talk. At the ripe age of twelve, I rented the best room in the local B and B place; one with its own bathroom and bay window, looking out over the road. It really was a brothel but took in unsuspecting guests over night to keep up appearances for the Fuzz. I had to cook breakfast for the guests and any of the girls that came in after a long night. Since I wasn’t a stay-a-bed, it didn’t bother me and I got a decent meal out of it.”

“Weren’t you roped in to..”

“Nah! I was too skinny and ugly looking then. If the Fuzz questioned me about my bank balance, since the word had got out that I was flush, I led them to believe I was on the game. As I grew older the scams got more profitable and more outrageous. I used to go and get a job at the posh boutiques and suss out the security alarm and CCTV system, so I could turn them off. I would then arrange the gang to turn up, all poshly dressed and sporting large Harrod’s bags. One of them would try and pay with a dodgy card and we would have a scene with her screaming down the phone at the card people. This upset the customers naturally and they would quickly depart, taking half the shop with them, as the manageress was trying to quieten down the screamer. I would then try and tell the manageress that people had been thieving whilst I was bringing goods out from the back. The screamer would then slam the phone down and barge out with lots of swearing and I would burst out in tears. I never got the blame. I was too young, dumb and innocent looking. I would then mumble that I was too frightened to work there anymore and the manageress, to placate me, would give me my wages out of the till and some more and I was off. I personally used to make about a thousand pound a time on those scams with designer dresses fetching a fortune up North and even abroad.”

“That sounds very enterprising. How did you ever manage to wean yourself off, Amanda?”

“I was known as Mandy then. I planned a scam in a real posh place just off Mayfair. Close to where you live now. The shop was running a fashion show for its valued, rich customers and being tall and skinny, they asked me to model. That was my turnaround Renton. I had plain long hair and the hairdresser and make-up artist had a go at me and made me look wonderful. Since I couldn’t walk in high heels, they got everybody to walk in bare feet. I always had that loping strut that models have so I was a natural. Yolanda and her agent were there. I stole the show of course, well not quite but made an impression and here I am, with you and leading a business.”

“Wow! What a story. It’s terrific Amanda!”

“I’d rather you kept it to yourself Renton and not band it about that I’m a thief and an illiterate one at that.”

“I’ll promise to keep that to myself Amanda. I wouldn’t call you illiterate. I would say that letters were just superfluous to you in your past life. You hide it extremely well Amanda.”

“Like you Renton, I have a terrific memory, especially for figures and numbers. I could beat dear old Partinger at number games. I get people to read everything to me. Contracts, letters, messages and things, Even my website is done by my secretary. I close my eyes and tell them it helps me to remember the detail if they read it out.”

“How did you get about Amanda? Buses and trains?”

“Not a complete idiot you know. I can sign my name, write my address and recognise familiar names and logos. I can’t read or write sentences, that’s all. I knew somebody would find me out someday. I’m glad it was you Renton. You would be sympathetic and even diplomatic about it. What should I do about it Renton? I would like to but not sure where to start. I can’t just go back to junior school and start over again.”

“I don’t think they would let you in Amanda. The thing is that you must have been missing out on some very nice things in life. Reading is not only useful to get along but pleasurable. There’s some terrific literature out there.”

“I listen on talking books. No need to read.”

“Never thought of that as an answer.”

“When Partinger introduced me to Shakespeare plays, I listened to everyone and can quote any line word perfect. Same with poetry.”

“Sounds as if your education hasn’t missed a beat and reading and writing is an irrelevance in this modern World for you.”

“Don’t take the piss Renton. I know the importance of words on paper but I don’t know how to make that transition in an easy and painless way. I have got away with it so far.”

“Hey Amanda, I’m not making fun, just wondering if you are not just years ahead of your time. Look, as far as I can see, you don’t have any problem in learning letters and writing. It’s just the practise of it. You could easily get a private tutor to teach you independently.”

“I would pay a fortune for that. I have the money.”

“It wouldn’t even cost a fortune and if you could devote an hour a day, with your innate intelligence, you would be fluent in no time.”

“Please Renton, would you help me please.”

“I don’t know of anybody but I know a man who does. A friend heads up a school teaching English to foreigners. I know it’s not the same thing but he should help. I presume you would want to do it discreetly Amanda?” 

“I think so, but I’m not too bothered about it. Please, please arrange it for me Renton, when we get back on Monday. I promise to put in the time and effort. Money is no object.”

“Sorry Amanda, we need to break off here. We need to be ready for half six remember and I need to iron a shirt.”

          

 Amanda looked as if she had just stepped out of the front cover of Vogue, as we sauntered along the prom, in the direction of the Casino. She wore a deep crimson dress, high heels and shades to match. A silk matching scarf fluttered in the light sea breeze from her delicate shoulder strap, like a fisherman’s lure. She looked fabulous and I was proud to have her on my arm as she leaned possessively into me. We tried to strike up a conversation, which was regularly interrupted by honking horns of passing cars and admiring cries and whistle from the pavement café dwellers.

“Yolanda told me you were bit of a fire brand when you joined the agency?”

“Those girls needed a good shake up. They were being taken for a ride by everybody taking advantage of them, particularly the agents and directors who were in cahoots with each over. All they were interested in was exploiting us and getting inside our knickers. I wasn’t having any of that. Nobody was going to get the better of Mandy so easily.”

“Tell me why you fired the Agency in the first week?”

“They were a bunch of wankers! All of them. I told Yolanda that if we didn’t do something then things would get from bad to worse. We had to make a stand so Yolanda got the key girls together and we fired our agent.”

“But you had contracts with them, didn’t you?”

“Sod the contracts. That’s why we then chose the smallest and weakest agent to take us on so that we could manipulate him. They threatened to sue us but we got our lawyer to put in a counter claim that they had underpaid us, effectively broken our contracts and claimed compensation.”

“Wasn’t there some unsavoury business?”

“It wasn’t unsavoury, just plain business like. One of the girls was being strong armed into breaking away from us so I got some of my lads from the East End to break a few arms and hospitalise a couple more. They were too soft to take anymore and capitulated.”

“Were you instrumental in your former agency to buying you out?”

“Of course! The agency we had was useless for us and the manager an idiot but totally malleable. We couldn’t have him run us so we suggested to our old agency that they buy him out and they would get all their models back.”

“The clever bit was you had special contracts drawn up which gave you better pay and conditions that had to be honoured by the new agents.”

“We safeguarded our position and the agency didn’t feel too bruised by it. They didn’t lose face by giving in to us.”

“Clever move Amanda. Yolanda told me that that was a kick start to her career, since the Directors finally decided to put some effort into the management of things.”

“Not half. We doubled our salary and they got better assignments for us.”

“All I know is that the Directors were glad when you resigned. They were fearful of you.”

“At least the girls are standing up for their rights and no more of the casting couch business.”

“I’ve learned another side of Amanda in the last few days. I’m seeing you in new light. Does Partridge know of this?”

“I doubt it. He saw me as a pure dolly bird with little between her ears, until I beat him at the number games.”

“I shall have to fill him in on your accomplishments. He needs to know that he doesn’t have to keep a paternal eye on you. You obviously can look after yourself.”

“I’d rather you didn’t tell him everything Renton. I’m not altogether proud of my former life. Do you know that you changed my life? I swooned with the rest of the girls when I first saw you and I was amazed when you chatted to me occasionally. I felt you treated me as a special person not just a floozy. I watched you carefully and noted how you managed to make everybody at ease with you. Even the Directors treated you as equals. I wanted to learn from you and would have taken copious note if I could write. I remember the conversation with you when I was going to go out with Partinger. It was more of a warning and I took it to heart. I was determined to change my personality and become a lady equivalent of Renton.”

“All I can say Amanda is that you have succeeded and we all appreciate your friendship and loyalty. You will go far.”

“Thank you, Renton. I appreciate that from you. I was an utter bitch. Now I’m converted.”

“We have arrived Amanda. This is the famous Casino. Let’s go and meet Marcel. I think you will like him. His father is the manager here and he’s learning the ropes.”

“If he’s just a trainee, how can he afford a plane?”

“Rich and generous family, not like mine.”

“Excuse me Sir. We have a dress code here. You can’t come in wearing jeans and trainers,” said the well-dressed doorman cum bouncer, addressing me but eyes fully on Amanda.

“I’m aware of that. Can you give Mr. Langdon a call and tell him that Renton is here to see Lucifer.”

“Certainly Sir,” he replied and raised his radio. “There’s a Mr. Renton and lady wanting to see Lucifer. Does that make any sense Mr. Langdon?” There was much nodding of heads and mutterings of ‘Oui’ and ‘Ah oui’ then he turned and addressed me, still with his radio at his ear. “Would you mind Mr. Renton standing out of the way and would the lady step forward to here. That’s it, excellent. Yes Mr. Langdon, I will do it personally.” With a flourishing wave he asked us to follow him. “Please follow me. I will take you to see Mr. Langdon.”

“You’re taking us to the gaming rooms,” I warned him.

“That’s right Mr. Renton. Mr. Langdon would like the players to have sight of your lady friend. Please follow me,” he said and took Amanda gently by the arm and gracefully escorted her through the busy, chandelier lit, gaming room, full of people. I followed, quite aware of what was intended and amused that I had broken one of the Casino’s cardinal dress rules. We were slowly guided through to the sumptuous dining room and to Mr. Langdon’s table.

“Ah, Monsieur Renton and gorgeous lady friend, welcome. Please come and join us and be our honoured guests. This is Sir Trevor and Lady Lancaster and you know my son Lucifer.”

“Pleased to meet you all,” I announced and, “Please meet Amanda, a very good friend of mine.” We all greeted each other with handshakes and customary three kisses on the cheek for the ladies.

“Do sit next to me dear,” said Langdon ushering Amanda to a seat next to him. “You can sit next to Lucifer Renton and catch up with old times while I entertain Amanda. By the way, you are having dinner with us tonight. Lucifer has already cancelled your reservation at the Moulin. They won’t mind. After all, we send plenty customers there. Now Amanda, can I offer you a glass of champagne.”

“Thank you, Mr. Langdon, I would love one.”

“Please call me Philippe, Amanda.”

“I thought your son was called Marcel.”

“Correct Amanda. All of his friends call him Lucifer because of his past exploits with matches. Nearly burned the school down I was told. Now how do you like our neck of the woods Amanda?”

“Renton,” said Sir Trevor addressing me directly. “Not related to Sir Gerald Renton, are you?”

“I’m afraid so,” I replied, “I’m the youngest brother.”

“I was hoping so. Very pleased to meet you Renton. Very nasty business with your brother. I’m so glad you have taken over. I was nearly taken in by him for a tidy sum. It was dastardly way he got your parents to try and persuade me to join in his scheme. I escaped by the skin of my teeth. You’re not the one heading up Renton Holdings then?”

“I am Sir Trevor.”

“Well, well, you must have a good head on your young shoulders. I expected someone twice our age. There are more brothers in your brood, am I right?”

“There are five of us with Gerald leading the way in age.”

“Most grateful for the way you have cleared up the mess. Partinger Senior tells me you have almost cleared up the debt. Quite an amazing feat for your young age Renton. Congratulations.”

“Thank you, Sir Trevor. You no doubt have heard we have had some hiccups on the way but we are now in a position to honour most of our debt should the need arise,” I answered guardedly.

“We need more people like you Renton in the financial circles, don’t we Philippe? People we can trust.”

“I agree Sir Trevor. People, like Renton and young Partinger are our future. Let’s raise our glasses to them.”

“Agreed and also your young Marcel or Lucifer as you call him.”

“And also Amanda who is MD of one of our very successful Companies,” I added.

“To all the young ones then. May they all flourish and prosper. Let me fully introduce our good friend Sir Trevor,” added Philippe and they raised their glasses of vintage champagne to us.

“Let’s drop the ‘Sir’ please.”

“Trevor unfortunately is a very good customer here at this Casino. I invited him to dine with us to take him away from the tables. He has that most unfortunate habit of winning consistently. How much have you taken off me tonight, Trevor?”

“Not too much Philippe, only about a hundred grand. It’s good for your business. Brings in the punters seeing and old fool like me win.”

“You don’t sound like a fool to me Sir Trevor,” added Amanda.

“You are too kind Amanda. I am an old fool really but enjoying life. You see, ten years ago the doctors gave me two years maximum to live and I’m still here trying very hard to spend all my money but the devil is getting in the way and all my investments and businesses are earning faster than I can spend it. Sally here is my third wife in as many years and at the moment she is probably calculating how much alimony she can get out of me when she divorces me at the end of the year. Don’t look so shocked Amanda. Sally and I understand each other on this. Now Amanda, why don’t you dump that whipper-snapper Renton and run off with me for a year or two?”

“You really are a lecherous old fool Trevor. I’m sure Amanda doesn’t need your money,” added Philippe laughingly.

“More’s the pity. I’m looking for gorgeous gold diggers to abuse my body. Renton, where are you staying?”

“Apartment on the front Trevor, Alain the Oilman’s place.”

“I know it. Next time use my villa on the hill here. Amanda, bring your girl friends over for a long weekend and have free run of the place. What do you say?”

“That’s very kind of you Trevor. I’ll consider it,” replied Amanda.

“Brilliant! I will be there to pour out my best wine and clean the shoes.”

“You are a dirty old man Trevor!” announced Philippe. “Leave your money to a cat and dogs home or something like that Trevor.”

“Don’t like cats. I try and leave it all here Philippe but you keep giving your money away to me. What can a man like me do? Anyway Amanda, less about me, tell Philippe and me all about yourself and what you get up to when your not entertaining young Renton there? Philippe, order more of your best champagne and let’s start dinner. I’m starving and Amanda here looks as if she could do with a square meal.”

“Let me apologise for Trevor being so rude,” added Philippe. “We try to teach him manners but the doctors and drugs have interfered with his brain me thinks.”  

“Apologies Amanda. Its old age that makes a man grumpy. Forgive me please.” 

“You’re forgiven Trevor. I am trying to get a bit more flesh on my bones,” murmured Amanda.

The evening was magnificent with lots of good conversation, food, champagne and dancing. Amanda was much in demand for the latter and was admire by all. I did a dance, or part of one before Trevor or Philippe dragged her off me. We eventually managed to get away just after eleven as Amanda dragged me away.

“That was most enjoyable Renton. I liked Sir Trevor. He’s not the fool he likes to make out.”

“I’m glad you enjoyed yourself Amanda. I’m just sorry that I couldn’t give you more attention.”

“You can make up for it tonight darling. Let’s speed up,” she added as she clung to my arm closer and lengthened her stride.”

“Lucifer tells me that Trevor is worth a few billion. His value goes up by millions every time the FTSE goes up a point. I saw you speaking to Sally. What do you think of her?”

“Sally is lovely Renton. She used to be an Office Manager when Trevor turns up one day and makes an offer that any lady in her position would find difficult to refuse. Two years with Trevor and as many millions as she wants. She’s had a whale of a time with high living. Do you know she does all of his arrangements and looks after his day-to-day finance. Going to stay on and be his PA for awhile after the quickie divorce procedure.”

“Sounds a rum sort of arrangement to me.”

“Trevor wants her to find a husband more her age, not somebody that could collapse on her any time. He’s living on borrowed time. Anyway, less about them, come on stride out young man, I’m looking forward to the next episode of our adventure just you and me.”

We arrived at the apartment slightly breathless since Amanda couldn’t wait for the lift and she slammed the door and locked it. She then gave me a longing kiss and announced, “Last one with their clothes off and in bed is a sissy!” as she kicked of her high heels, slipped out of her dress and sprinted for the bedroom door. All I saw was a pert bottom covered in lacy knickers disappearing out of sight and heard the bed as she launched herself onto it. I wasn’t far behind but my excuse was that I had more clothes to dispense with. It was close to four in the morning before we called a truce and fell into a deep sleep, exhausted.

I brought up a tray of fresh coffee and French pastries which I had bought that morning at the pavement café below and stood before the bed admiring Amanda’s body. All tanned all over in expensive fake and looking rather gorgeous. I finally succumbed to poking her gently with my toe. She woke up with a start and quickly pulled the sheet up to her chin in embarrassment, giggled, let it drop.

“Morning darling! Room service! Coffee, croissants and pastries to delight your fancy,” I murmured with a smile.

“Hey! Who gave you permission to leave my bedside?”

“Had to get some stuff to refuel after last night dear. Shift over so I can put the tray down and at least give you a morning kiss.”

“I hope it’s going to be more than a morning kiss Renton. I hope you didn’t drag me over to Cannes just for morning coffee?”

“Sorry darling but we have a busy day today and need to get going. Don’t look so disappointed. Eat up and I’ll tell you what’s on the agenda. Don’t worry about the crumbs darling, the maid Lucille will tidy up when we are out.”

“What a maid coming in? I’ll have tidy the place up before she comes!”

“Oh no you don’t! That’s what maids are for. You don’t want to make Lucille redundant, do you?”

“Your Mayfair lifestyle is making you soft Renton. Now tell me what we are up to today so I can sort out my clothes.”

“Well, you won’t need much clothes wise Amanda. We are going sailing this morning. Lunch at St Tropez. Now you can go on a large sailing cruiser or just thee and me can hire a cat and sail ourselves over.”

“Oh, I’d rather just the two of us sail. Just like old times. Remember Poonong?” Stuffing the last croissant into her mouth.

“Hey! That was mine!”

“You’ll survive Renton. Don’t be a girl’s blouse. Now what clothes should I have?”

“I would suggest bikini, shorts and flip flops and maybe a change. We’ll hire or buy wind-proofs for sailing. I’ll also get a dry bag for spare clothing because we are bound to get wet.”

“Right, I can source most of that from my case. What about tonight?”

“We’ll be back here and I’ll try booking the Moulin which we missed last night.”

“Come on Amanda, we need to get going. I’m going to nip into the shower first then…”

“I’ll come in with you Renton!”

“Now Amanda, just behave yourself. We really are on a tight schedule.”

“I’ll offer to scrub your back but I might demand more in return.”   

Chapter 42

      

We managed to leave the apartment before ten o’clock. I was in my usual running shorts, T-shirt and flip flops. Amanda wore a bright bikini covered with a silky top and white shorts. Red pumps finished off her outfit plus a large handbag containing spare clothing. She looked fabulous as we hurried along the promenade in the direction of the marina. In my best French I asked the man behind the desk if we could hire a sailing boat and equipment for the day and he took one look at me and replied in faultless English, “Its Renton isn’t it? What the hell are you doing down here?”

“Hi Ron, fancy meeting you here? You work here?”

“I own the place Renton and I’m trying to make a go of it.”

“Amanda, meet Ronald, an old college pal of mine. It seems we’ve struck gold!”

“Pleased to meet you Amanda. Now Renton most of our boats are booked out but we’ve just got a new cat in which we are setting up and fine tuning. She’s fast and bit of a handful. Can you sail Amanda?”

“She can handle a boat Ron. Plenty of practice in Poonong.”

“What, Buggsie’s place? Shame about that. Now I’m a bit busy now but I’ll hand you over to my assistant to see to you. There’s a stiff breeze. You’re going to get wet out there so you can borrow my gear. Amanda, you should fit into my wife’s stuff. Look Renton, we need to get together to catch up on old times. Why don’t you and Amanda come to dinner with us tonight? We run a small café bar where we live and it has live music and good food. I sometimes play and Julian serves at the bar, helps to make ends meet. Please say ‘yes,’ Julian would love to meet you both.” I looked at Amanda and she gave a curt nod.

“That will be lovely Ron. You can give us the details when we get back.” With that, Ron took us out into the yard and introduced us to his assistant who helped us set the cat up and got us some gear plus a dry-bag to put Amanda’s spare stuff in out of the wet.

The cat was large and proved very lively on our sail to St. Tropez harbour. The borrowed gear was invaluable in keeping the spray and cold wind off us and we hit the harbour mouth, on a stiff breeze, in good time. Amanda at the helm and me out on the trapeze try to keep the boat balanced. A small outboard drove us into the marina and after a few frantic phone calls on the mobile we managed to locate the party comprising a huge gin palace and an even larger sailing cruiser.

“Hey Renton, don’t come up,” shouted somebody from above. “Were all leaving the marina. It’s too smelly here for lunch. Follow us around the point and we’ll meet up in the small bay there for a barbie.” I waved an acknowledgement to someone in the crowd amongst the throng of people on deck and headed back out into the open sea.

“What’s the problem Renton. Why can’t we have lunch here?”

“Just take a whiff. The harbour is stinking this time of the year in the heat. Only the stupid and people who want to be seen, eat out on deck here. More than likely throw up their lunch later. It’s pretty vile. I though we might be eating in a restaurant, certainly not on board. We’ll just motor round and follow them in.”

 Soon the elegant motor cruiser chugged past then the sailing cruiser motored past with people on board waving madly to us.

 “At least we will be able to get ashore in this Amanda. They will have to transfer by the tender.” Sure enough, although we were last into the bay we motored up to the beach and Amanda was over the side pulling the craft up before I could intervene. The local nude bathers didn’t seem too pleased to be invaded by a throng of yuppies and started making disparaging comments, fortunately in French and Amanda couldn’t understand though she detected the hostility.

“Not very friendly these beach bums, are they?” she commented.

“They treat it as their private residence but they’ll get over it. We’ll set up further up the beach and give them some room. Just keep smiling. You’ll win them over with charm.”

“That’s your department Renton. Can we get out of this gear? It’s getting hot out here.”

“Yeah, I’ll put it in the locker. Do you want your other stuff out?”

“Nah! Just the flip flops and stick this in there too,” as she whipped off her wet bikini top and threw it to me. “If you can’t beat them join them I say,” as she struck up a pose for me. Her flimsy wet top left little to the imagination. “My bottoms will dry out in this sun and so will the top, don’t you think? I’ll tie my wet hair back when it dries out a little. How do I look?”

“You look just marvellous Amanda but more like a clown at this very minute. Come over here. I’ve got some fresh water and let me sponge off that zinc total sun block off your face.”

“Oh, I forgot about that. You do my face and I’ll do yours and don’t forget the suntan cream. It’s going to be hot on this beach.” We had cleaned up and creamed up by the time the first shore party arrived with lots of boxes and brollies. We helped them carry the stuff up the beach and made our introductions. A further two boat loads brought the rest and people were getting acquainted. Amanda wandered off to where the boxes were stored and looked in, inspecting the contents. There was a group of five men around the boxes setting them up in a neat row and I heard Amanda take charge. 

“So, it’s a barbeque we are having, is it?” she said to no one in particular. “What’s your name darling? Gerard, would you mind setting up the barbeque over there and firing it up. Thanks. Now cutey, Patrick is it. Why don’t you set up the tables here in a row so we can prepare the food on them. Yves, you’re a hunk, would you mind awfully chopping the salad stuff here for me. Patrick, when you’ve finished the tables would you mind chopping up the bread and putting it in that bin liner to stop the sand blowing in on it. Now Luc can you start cutting up the meat into chunks this size and putting them in this bowl. Gerard, you can help Luc with the meat. I want it skewered on theses wet sticks when Yves has chopped some mushrooms and peppers. We need to soften them a bit on the Barbie first. Now Karl, can you please chop up the fruit and place the bits in that cool box for a punch. Pour a bottle of white wine in first then some lemons to stop the fruit discolouring. Now listen up guys. Wash your hands before you start preparing any food please, plenty of bottled water here. Don’t want anybody going down with jippy tummy do we?” 

I listened to all this with some amusement but the guys seemed happy to be ordered about so I was about to leave Amanda to it and circulate when she shouted to me, “Renton darling, do grab that guitar and go off and entertain the troops whilst we are busy with the food. Be a good boy!” and she was back gently ordering the guys and organising the food preparation. “Patrick, don’t give all those sun brollies away. Set them up for the workers here and also to shade the food. Give out any left over. Luc, once you have some skewers assembled I want Gerard to just brown them off gently, not fully cooked and put them aside. We can finish them off later and we’ll have more time. Right, I’ll make up a salad dressing and also a hot salsa to go with the meat and we’ll coat the chicken skewers with peanut paste, a sort of satay sauce. I’ll make that up. Have we any ice cubes?”

“Sorry Amanda but we seem to have forgotten them,” answered Luc.

“Patrick dear. Wearing that cap probably means you are part of the crew of the gin palace. Am I right?”

“Yes Amanda,” answered Patrick gravely as the rest of the guys were controlling themselves as they wanted to burst into laughter. “Yes Amanda, I am the owner of that gin palace, what do you need?”

“Oh shit! I’ve put my big foot right in it. Sorry Patrick, I didn’t mean to take over,” said Amanda apologetically, covering her face to hide her shame.

“Oh, don’t be sorry Amanda. You were doing just fine. Please carry on, don’t stop. Now what else do you need from the ship Amanda? I’ll get it sent across.”

“Lots of ice to stop all this stuff going limp, a couple of bottles of vodka and rum to go in the punch. And ask your chef if he can send some spices over, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, nutmeg and paprika if you would?”

“Ask him yourself Amanda, Yves here is my Chef.”

“Merde, double merde! How do I do it? Sorry guys you obviously had a plan and I’ve neatly buggered it up for you. Shall I leave you to it?”

“Hey, no Amanda, Yves was most upset at having his plans changed and you stepped in at the right moment and organised us. The main thing is that Yves and Luc here, his assistant, would probably not have coped so well alone but you managed to engage an army of helpers. We would be delighted to be bossed, sorry instructed by such a beautiful chef, wouldn’t we guys?” pleaded Patrick.

“OK, if you guys want me to stay then I can be a bit rough if you don’t come up to scratch. Do you accept that?” questioned Amanda. There was an unreserved shout of ‘Oui Chef’ from all.

“OK Patrick, you get what I said and Yves, is there anything else we need?”

“Get some salt boss and get them to send over my spice box plus some more skewers and some honey,” shouted Yves as Patrick was talking on his mobile to his ship.

“Hey Amanda, can I offer you a position in my organisation? I’d love you to come and work for me.”

“Sorry Patrick I’ve got a MD position in Renton’s organisation.”

“What a pity, I could do with some one like you to kick ass. Now let me tell you, the best thing here is that you have got my Head Chef working on the most menial tasks whilst his assistant, Sou Chef, is doing the important things with the meat. Did you have a feeling about their abilities or was it just potluck?”

“Sorry Yves, there was no discrimination just the fall of the dice. Anyway, how are we doing folks? Come on speed up or we’ll have a riot on our hands. Patrick, can you tip the couscous into the large food box there and boil up some water. Yves, have we any stock?”

“Yes Chef, in the brown plastic box there, I’ll get it. Patrick can boil that up.”

“Patrick, once its boiling, put that bag of frozen peas in and return it to the boil. Tip the lot over the couscous and close the lid.”

“Hey Amanda, where on earth did you learn all this stuff?” asked Patrick.

“I was in charge of the cooking in Poonong in Thailand.”

“Ah, Buggsy’s place. I gave a large donation to his cause. Dreadful business.”

“Right Gerard, I want you to slice the chicken up like this, skewer it and bash it with a pan like this to flatten it. Then slap it on the Barbie to only whiten it. Not to cook it fully. Just dry it off so that you can smear it with satay paste. Now Yves, just taste this salad dressing.”

“Good Amanda. The French would add a touch more salt. The salsa could do with some more pimento and more of that anchovy sauce and it will be fine.”

“Thanks Chef. Now Patrick, that’s your wife over there isn’t it?”

“That’s Susan, I’ll bring her over and introduce you.”

“Good Patrick. I want you and Susan to take the cool box there full of punch and the cups. Since you are the host it would be a good idea for you to hand out the drinks to all a sundry before the meal. Make sure you come back quickly and bring Susan. Right guys, we have prepped everything up and when Patrick and Susan return I want eight meals set up. The cooks eat first in my establishment before the onslaught. Right?”

“Oui Chef!” came the resounding reply from all.

I got a blow by blow account of Amanda’s doing from Patrick later. I was busy entertaining the troops at Amanda’s command. I took the guitar, played and sang some blues numbers and gathered a crowd. Once assembled, I got them to play some musical games to break up the ice. Musical chairs was a winner. Adult version of ‘hokey-kokey’ and ‘ring a ring of roses’ also went down well. By this time some of the ‘residents’ came to see what the fun was and started joining in. Soon I had three guitars backing me plus a set of bongos, as the crowd gyrated to the music. Patrick and Susan brought around the drinks, handing it out to all and announced that the food would soon be ready to resounding cheers. A pan was rung in an angry manner to announce service and people flocked to the Barbie area to be ushered into line by Chief Chef Amanda. Each person was handed a plate of salad, couscous, three skewers of meat and a hunk of bread to soak up the juices. Even the locals were invited to join in and they queued up nervously, all of them clad in something to cover their lower halves for decorum, and gratefully accepted the food.  Patrick went around distributing the second cool box of punch whilst Susan poured out the red wine. Yves and Luc fussed over Amanda, being grateful that the meal was so successful and quietly set to in dismantling the impromptu kitchen arrangements. Amanda flopped down in the sand besides me and cuddled in whilst we watched a game of beach volleyball and listened to a group of residents playing and singing some French folk music.    

I whispered to Amanda that it was time to slip away and ‘sail into the sunset’. She wanted to say her farewells but I reminded her that we would see most of this crowd for lunch tomorrow. We put on our gear and Yves and Luc who were down by the waterside pushed us off. The wind had turned to our advantage and we managed an exhilarating fast sail back home. Ron was waiting for us and wouldn’t accept any charge for the hire. Amanda was perturbed by this and insisted on paying. I had to drag her away and explain that it would be an effrontery for Ron to accept payment from a good friend and someday, I would be expected to do him a good turn. We splodged back to our apartment, had a hot shower and fell asleep on the bed together. Fortunately, I had set the alarm which rudely awoke us only an hour later.

“Look at my hair?” cried Amanda, “What am I going to do with it. It’s horrible!” I knew not to answer and escaped to have a shave and check if I had some clean socks and shorts. I came back to find Amanda sitting in front of the dressing table in lacy panties, suspender belt and fishnet tights, pinning her hair up. “I’m going as a French bar maid!” she announced not looking at me.

“You will look beautiful as usual darling,” I whispered in her ear and gave her a peck on the cheek. I didn’t get a reply, only heard some grunts as she battled with her hair. I put on my only pair of jeans, trainers and clean shirt and poured Amanda a glass of champagne that Lucille had kindly left for us in a cooler. 

“What do you think then?” she asked standing there looking at me crossly.

“You look wonderful darling but can I suggest that you at least cover you top part unless you want a riot.”

“I’m wearing a dress stupid! What about my hair?”

“I’ve never seen you looking so beautiful Amanda. In fact, I wish we weren’t going out tonight.”

“Now he says! And I’ve gone to so much trouble!” she cried.

“Wow Amanda, don’t take it out on me. Here, have a glass of champagne. It will make you feel better.”

“Have you anything stronger?”

“I can rustle up a shot of Vodka. I’ll check if Alain has put any best Polish in the freezer.”

“Make mine a large one and plenty of ice.”

“You won’t need any ice darling and I’ll bring you the bottle so you can have small shots, like Stasiek and Jadja do. That’s the way to drink it.”

“Thanks Renton, I’ll try my dress on.” I went off to get the vodka which I already knew was in the freezer plus the glasses. On my return, Amanda had slipped on a black dress and turned her back to me for me to zip her up. I couldn’t resist in giving her back a kiss then touching it with the frozen bottle. She jumped and turned like a cornered cat in anger. Suddenly she realised that she had overreacted, lowered her resistance and broke into tears. I hugged her, ensuring that I kept the frozen bottle well clear of her back. “Sorry darling,” she sobbed, “I was just so strung up about my hair. I wanted to look special for you since it was our last night together. I’m OK now. Give me a slug to pick me up.” I let go of her gently and poured a short measure into the glass. She downed it in one and held it out for another. “Nazdrowie as Jadja would say!”

“But please don’t break the glass as is the Polish custom. Shall I zip up your dress now?”

“Please Renton. Now I’m ready for anything. How do I look? Not too tarty for you?”

“I would say posh tarty if there is such a description but since we are going to a busy bar I think its just right and I love your hair.”

“You know the right things to say darling. Give me a big kiss and a hug then I’ll be ready for the off. Sorry to be such a big baby.”

The bar was within walking distance so we strolled along taking in the last of the sun’s rays.

“Super sail today, Renton. I did enjoy it but it brought back some horrific thoughts of the Thai disaster.”

“You helmed superbly well today Amanda, especially since it was a new boat. They say women are more sensitive at these things than men. It’s a long time since I had such a thrilling sail. By the way, you did a fantastic job on the beach. Patrick was most impressed and grateful, he though his Chef was going to throw in his chips, but you saved the day.”

“Thank you, kind Sir, but that’s just what I did daily in Poonong. The people brought the vegetables and fish and I had to decide on the hoof how we were going to cook it all without falling back on the fish stews. Tell me a little about Ron.”

“He used to play the drums at college bands. That’s how I got to know him. He was a couple of years ahead of me so I lost touch until this morning. We’ll find out more tonight, I hope. Sounds as if he’s married a French girl and settled out here. Sheer luck to come across him at the marina; saved me a fortune.”

“Renton, I would have paid for it. We all know your destitute and won’t even replace your jeans or suit.”

“I wouldn’t have let you pay Amanda. It’s my treat and I look after my girls.”

“You certainly look after them well Renton but you don’t have to be so silly about money. On paper you are very rich with the shares you hold in the Company. I shouldn’t tell you this but dear Partinger has been converting your substantial salary which you won’t take, into Company shares for you. Don’t look so startled. We all agreed but please don’t let on. They would kill me. No one would query your expenses if you bought yourself a decent suit either, rather than that hand-me-down from your eldest brother.”

“Amanda, I will change my ways once the debt I inherited is fully paid for.”

“Partinger says you are killing yourself with work and should slow down and enjoy yourself a bit more.”

“Partridge can just bugger-off. I am enjoying myself, especially this weekend.”

“Thank you darling. You always say the right thing but remember we all want the best for you. Is it much further, my high heels are killing me.”

“Just around that corner. There it is. You can see the tables out on the pavement. Looks smaller than I imagined.” I led Amanda into the dim lit bar and was immediately greeted by Ron.

“Renton and Amanda! Great, you made it! Julian!” he shouted in the direction of the bar, “Julian, come and meet Renton and Amanda.” A lovely girl at the bar put down the glasses in her hands, wiped them on a towel and hurried out adjusting her hair. “Julian, meet Renton and Amanda. I told you they would come.” We greeted each other in the French way with lots of kisses. “Julian works here whilst I’m eking out a living at the marina. We live in a flat upstairs. I help out in the evenings. Julian, get us a bottle of that good red wine and I’ll settle our guests at the table near the stage. Can I suggest you eat early, helps the kitchen. The food is excellent but we are running short on staff.”

“Tell the chef to serve us the ‘plate d’jour’, the rabbit terrine followed by the duck will be fine. I saw it on the board.”

“Brilliant, I’ll order that immediately for you. Enjoy the wine and I’ll join you in a minute. I have to organise the band stand. Some musicians are to turn up soon.” Julian brought out the wine and four glasses and poured.

“I met Ron in Oxford, so my English is good. In fact, I try and put on a French accent just for the pleasure of the English-speaking customers, since they think it’s so quaint. I do a good impression of ‘Allo, Allo’ for them. I need to get back to the bar but I’ll join you later when some more bar staff arrive.”

“Julian seems very nice Renton. Is this the first time you have met?”

“First time. I haven’t seen Ron since college a few years ago. He seems very happy but overworked, I fear. Good wine, I reckon the meal will be good too. I hope you don’t mind me choosing for you dear.”

“Renton, you have just repeated another lesson for me. Make things simple for people when they are busy. You did the same with the Jet staff. We probably will get a superb meal for that little bit of consideration. Renton I just love you! I love the way you make people instantly at home with you. I just wish I was seven years younger then I would tip my hat for you, make no mistake about it. Instead, I will live on the memories of this weekend.”

“Sorry Amanda, I’ve left my violin at home.”

“I know I’m being soppy but just let me enjoy the moment.”

“Oh look, our musicians have turned up. Looks like a clarinet, guitar and Ron on the drums. Not much of an outfit but let’s see what they can do.” They were remarkably good with the guitarist singing as well, as they performed a series of American jazz and blues numbers. Our food arrived and we hungrily tucked in to a tasty terrine with lots of crusty bread and salad bits. The sliced and rare duck breast soon followed. It was obvious the chef wanted the early diners out of the way, for the main onslaught later. Just as Ron had promised the food was excellent, tasty and of good quality. We ate with enjoyment. Just as we finished our ripe camembert, Ron came over in a bit of a panic.

“Renton, I’ve got a slight problem. The group supposedly on next have been delayed at their last venue and won’t arrive for twenty minutes or so. Could you do me a favour and play your stuff on the piano until they arrive. I advertise live music and I have to please the punters.”

“No panic Ron. Of course I’ll help you out, in fact I’ll do one better, I’ll get Amanda here to sing. That’s OK Amanda?” I said looking at her.

“I’d love to Ron. I haven’t sung on stage for quite a while but Renton will help me out, won’t you darling?”

“Oh good! I’ll set the electric keyboard up for you and the mike’s there on stage already,” and he scuttled off looking relieved. With Amanda’s help I listed half a dozen numbers on a napkin, we drank up our wine and I wandered off in the direction of the stage to check out the piano. Ron gave us an outstanding introduction with mention of us flying in specially and being associated with Ronnie Scott’s of London. A lot of bull but the audience seem to appreciate it. I started of with a standard jazzy number on the piano that I had made up, accompanied by a percussion recorded section from the built-in electronics then straight into the introduction of an Ella Fitzgerald number as Amanda strutted on stage and took the mike. It was a fairly light number which allowed her to warm up and then into a heavier number which she pounded out with much panache and gyration of hips. We got a massive ovation for that and in the pause between the next number the mobile phones were out and people shouting down them. We did another two belting numbers and by now the crowd was edging their way into the dining area to annoyance of the diners. Ron held up his thumbs in delight and made a fist twice which was the signal to keep going for another ten minutes which was fine by us. Amanda was enjoying herself. Soon we realised what all the frantic phone calls were about as more and more people crowded into the bar, dragged away from other places. Ron jumped up onstage after another round of applause and announced that we were due for a break but would appear again later in the evening.

“That was terrific you two! Can you stay all season? You’ve certainly dragged the punters in. The next trio will be on now and then if we could have a repeat performance later, please?”

“Definitely,” replied an animated Amanda as Ron rushed off to set up the next act. “I enjoyed that Renton. We must do it more often. I missed out on the beach today but promise we can get together like this again. It’s great fun. Hey! Come on, I think we need to help Julian out at the bar. She looks swamped. Come on.”

“OK, OK Amanda, I’ll just retrieve my jacket. Have you got your handbag?”

“I put that and your jacket behind the bar before we started. Somebody has taken our table already so come on, we need to roll our sleeves up and help,” as she elbowed her way to get behind the bar. “Two more helpers Julian. What do you want us to do?”

“Thanks guys. I’m worried about the people out on the pavement. I can’t get any drinks to them. It’s so busy,” shouted Julian, as she was pouring pastis with one hand and water with the other.

“I’ll see to them,” she shouted back. “What do we charge around here?” 

“Between three and four Euros a drink. The list is up there Amanda,” shouted Julian, above the noise.

“Bugger that,” shouted back Amanda, “I’ll charge fiver per drink and help with no change. Renton grab those bottles and I want glasses of white, red, pastis shots and some Kir Royals on that tray. Got that? Good, I’ll help Julian deal with the bar first. Give me a shout when you have a tray full.” I got busy opening bottles and pouring as fast as I could as the girls were frantically serving the customers.

“Right Amanda, I’ve one tray completed. How the hell are you going to get out into the street with that?”

“Just watch me Renton and learn. Remember I was a barmaid and a good one at that. Fill another tray darling and empty the dish washer. We might get short on glasses,” with that she deftly lifted the tray high above her head and charged straight out into the crowd forcing her way out with shouts and whistles as I set up another tray.

“Hey, can’t we get service here?” shouted an irate customer, directing his venom at me. I looked up helplessly and then answered.

“I can give you a bottle and glasses for thirty Euros if that will help!”

“Great, give me a white and red plus six glasses. Here’s sixty and thanks.” As he disappeared another customer demanded the same. I managed to sell some twelve bottles that way and relieved the crush at the bar. A piercing whistle through the window at the end of the bar brought me to attention as I saw Amanda gesticulating that I should pass another tray out.

“What kept you Renton? Lots of thirsty folks out here. More pastis and less white on the next one.”

“Right you are boss!” and immediately started setting up another two trays, in between selling more full bottles of wine over the bar. Julian saw me handing over glasses and bottles and gave me a double thumbs up sign and mouthed a ‘thank you’ followed by a blown kiss. The other member of the bar staff was busy serving table and clearing up the glasses. We were all extremely busy. Another piercing whistle signalled that Amanda was ready for another tray. I took one over to her plus a bottle of red and white. “For top ups Amanda,” I shouted, “Running short of glasses.” She nodded in recognition and disappeared with the full tray and a bottle of red. I managed to retrieve a bar stool and positioned it by the window and stood the next ready tray of drinks on it for Amanda. A shout of ‘glasses’ from Julian got me delving in the dish washer and setting them up for her. I then cleared the bar of empty glasses and stuffed them into the washer as fast as possible. Pointing to the dishwasher I mouthed to Julian how I should set it on fast wash. She sidled over, slammed the door shut with her behind, pressed a button and was off. More cries from the bar got me opening more bottles and dishing them out at thirty Euros a piece. I stuffed the money in a large glass and chalked up my sales on the board. A whistle from Amanda had me running over with and an order of another three bottles of red to pass out through the window. As quickly as the storm had risen in the bar it abated and suddenly, we found ourselves with only a trickle of customers. Amanda squeezed herself back behind the bar and Julian hugged her in thanks then I got a hug from both of them.

“That was wonderful guys. We would have had a riot if you two hadn’t helped apart from the loss of trade. Brilliant idea of Renton’s to sell it by the bottle. Cleared the bar area in no time.”

“I don’t know how you account for it but I put the money in the glass and chalked up the sales. Must have sold over thirty bottles and Amanda got through six.”

“I sold another twenty,” added Julian. “Just stuff the money in the till. We more than covered the costs with the inflated prices but no one seemed to mind. I think Ron would like you to play again if you have the energy guys. Thanks again, you were a great help.” We washed our hands and Amanda whipped off her black waiters apron and whispered, “Let’s sock it to them darling and then we can get back to the apartment for the real fun, eh?” and she gave me a resounding kiss.

We played and sang for about thirty minutes and the encores added a further ten. We left the bar just after eleven, just before the next onslaught of thirsty drinkers invaded the bar. Amanda was high after the performance so skipped, ran and danced her way back to the apartment.

“Darling, I’m going to have a quick shower to get that smoky smell of the bar off me whilst you can be a darling and rustle up a bottle of champagne and some eats. I could eat a horse and I need to restore some of my energy before the next session tonight and don’t be long!”

“Right you are boss! Champagne and canapés coming up tout suit!” I went off to raid the freezer for bread and the fridge, for smoked salmon, some cured meats and cheese, that Lucille had thoughtfully provided for us. I heard her come out of the shower as I was about to load up the toast wedges with all manner of goodies and shouted that I’d bring the champagne through first. It took a few minutes to search through the wine fridge to find an appropriate bottle, fill the cooler with ice and load the tray with glasses. I carried this through to the dimly lighted bedroom and set it down on the side table next to Amanda who was stretched out naked on the bed with her hair flung out onto the pillow. “Here we are darling, you’ll love this Vintage Champagne!” I whispered and got no response. “Hey Amanda, you’re not asleep, are you? Just pretending I hope?” Still no response. “Oh dear, I think you are asleep,” I said loudly, chinked the glasses together and popped the cork. The only response I got was a sigh, plus a hand raised up to her cheek. She was fast asleep. I poured myself a generous glass of champagne and gave Amanda a silent toast. I gently covered her with the sheet up to her shoulders, after a good peek at her gorgeous body and sat in the armchair sipping the champagne, watching her breathing heavily and fast asleep. I went back into the kitchen and retrieved the platter of delicate canapés I made earlier and set them on the bedside table next to the sleeping beauty. I sat in the armchair, feeling somewhat cheated in the macho way but relieved that my duty was over for the day. I realised I was hungry and munched greedily whilst watching Amanda, having first pulled back the sheet to her hips so I could have full view of her luscious body. Having finished the food and most of the champagne, there was little else to do but have a shower and creep in next to her, not too gently with the vague hope that she might just awaken. No such luck!           

My wristwatch alarm woke me just before nine. Sleeping Beauty was still in deep slumber, curled up in a tight foetal position, so I decided to go for a run on the beach and maybe take a morning dip in the Mediterranean. On the way back, at a café bar, I downed a quick café express and bought two large coffees and a selection of pastries to take away. She was still asleep but now on her back with one arm outstretched and the other hanging limply over her chest.

“Wakey wakeeeee…. Darling! Time to get up and enjoy the day!” that got absolutely no response so I put down the tray of breakfast on the bedside table and gave Sleeping Beauty the essential long kiss on the lips. This did the trick and she awoke and struggled up to a sitting position taking stock of the situation. “Morning darling, breakfast for you. It’s about ten and the car collects us at eleven. Can’t be late or we’ll miss our plane.”

“Bugger! Bugger! Bugger! I’ve slept through all night, haven’t I?” she exclaimed with dismay. “Why didn’t you wake me? I’ve wasted a whole night with you Renton!”

“I tried but the spell was too strong. I was a bit hurt. I’m obviously losing my touch. I’ll go and see a doctor!”

“Stop taking the piss Renton. This is serious. Look Renton you must promise not to ever speak of this. If you do, I’ll kill you, I’ll cut off your dangly bits and stuff them in you mouth and cut you up into little pieces. Promise me not to tell Renton. I will just have to fantasise. The girls will expect a blow-by-blow account from me so, zip it Renton!”

“Yus Boss! What shall I say if they ask?”

“Not a word Renton, I’ll do all the talking in private of course. Now what are you doing out of bed Renton? Get in here this instant!”

“Hang on Amanda, I need a quick shower to wash the sand, sweat and sea water off me first.”

“I don’t care darling! Come on!”

“You eat your breakfast and I won’t be a mo!” and I rushed off throwing my shorts and T-shirt in a plastic bag for packing. A quick shower and a minute under the drying machine I was ready for some action. “Hey Amanda you’ve eaten all the croissants and drunk my coffee!”

“You took too long and I was hungry. You were supposed to feed me last night. Now stop dawdling young man and come over here. You have important duties to perform.”

A long buzz on the door announced that Lucille had arrived. I let her in and she demanded a customary hug as well as the three kisses. I told her to go and help Amanda with her packing since we needed to be waiting for the car on the pavement at eleven sharp. I stuffed my things quickly into my small leather Gladstone bag, wrote a card of appreciation for Lucille with a fifty Euro note as a tip and stuck it under a fridge magnet. When I poked my head round to check on Amanda, Lucille was in the process of helping Amanda with her hair, rolling it up high and pinning it up. I noticed she was wearing white trousers with a stripy top and blue ballet pumps.

“How do I look Renton? Bit like a French onion seller?”

“She looks beautiful Renton,” added Lucille before I could speak. “Far too good for you!”

“Thanks Lucille, just what a guy needs to boost his confidence.”

“You’ll live Renton. Thanks to Lucille I’m packed and ready for the off.”

“I’ve called the porter for your bags. Why don’t you two pop down to the café and wait downstairs for the car. The sun is nice.”

“Thanks Lucille. I don’t know when I’ll be back next but you can be sure it won’t be long. I shall see Mr. Oilman in London probably on his next circuit. Bye!”

Chapter 43

The car took us up into the hills, through an electric operated gate and along a long driveway, shaded by olive trees on either side. The chauffer drove into an underground garage and up to the lift. We took the lift up to the second floor which opened out onto a huge terrace with extensive views of Nice and open countryside as far as the sea. Lots of people were milling about the bar area and we were immediately spotted by Lucifer who shot forward to greet us. “Why didn’t you tell me? Why didn’t you call me that you were performing at Ron’s? I hear it was one of the best nights they’ve had there since Ron and Julian took over. You’re quite a pair.”

“Hey, you two!” shouted Patrick, “Come and join the throng and I’ll introduce you; Amanda and Renton that most of you know already. They are the ones who literally saved my bacon on the beach yesterday, or at least my reputation. Come here darling Amanda and have a glass of champagne. One of Trevor’s best. You’ll find him molesting the girls down at the pool. They tell me you also have a fine voice. We’ll have to hear it one day.”

“Ah, Amanda, you have arrived,” said Sally grabbing Amanda’s arm and leading her away. “Come and join Susan and the girls down by the pool. These guys are talking boring business or politics.”

“I’m afraid we are guys. Come on! Loosen up,” cried Patrick. “We need some entertainment or sport to get our minds of the daily drudge. I have a couple of pool tables set up, lets play!”

“Why don’t we play for a thousand buck a point,” said an American voice.

“Why Tex, you reckon you’re a hustler and want to sting us for a few bucks?” replied someone amidst, peels of laughter.

“Let’s have a draw to see who plays on each table. Winner stays on,” suggested Lucifer. “Then we can have a grand final. 

“Brilliant and I’ll get Trevor to donate six cases of his champagne to the winner and six cases of his best claret to the runner up,” suggested Patrick.

“And how about a third prize of a weekend in your retreat Patrick?”

“Agreed and I’ll make it a week,” added Patrick. “Right, come on. Lucifer, get a hat and I’ll write the names and we’ll get one of the girls to make the draw. Don’t trust any of you lot!” Two teams were drawn and the first two in each cued off. “To make it more interesting I’m setting up a couple of chess timers set at twenty seconds. If you can’t get your shot in, in the allocated time you hand over. That will speed things up.” I was fifth in line of the seven in my group and followed Lucifer. The other group had Tex the American and Patrick our Host. There were some good players and with Lucifer, a known hustler, I was going to have a tough time. There was a table in Mayfair and Partinger and I made regular use of it, plus the apprenticeship we had at school and at college. I expected to fair well. I had my eye on the second-place claret which was exceptionally good, straight off Trevor’s vineyard near Bordeaux.

All the games were absorbing and evenly matched. All players must have been through the same schooling. Tex was certainly chomping at the bit ready to go and was giving advice and coaching as if he had invented the game. Lucifer survived a round and it was my turn to take him on. It was soon evident that he was out of practice and I potted the black with two of his colours still on the table. The following two players were no match for a young lad with a history of miss-spent youth and I walked through easily to the final. On the other table Tex had cleared off two opponents with ease and was about to take on Patrick who had been drawn as last participant on that table. It was obvious that the two pool tables at the villa were not just for show because suddenly Tex became quiet and thoughtful. Too thoughtful and had to hand over to Patrick and forfeit a shot for going over his allotted time. It ended up with Tex on black and Patrick still on a colour. I, with the rest of the crowd expected Tex to defer to the host and engineer a foul or something and lose gracefully but the American showed no manners and potted the black with aplomb and a shout of victory. We applauded gracefully and then it was my turn to uphold manners.

Tex had watched me polish off the last two contenders easily with no requirement of real skill and I had the impression that he thought me a walk over. I won the break and fluked a colour which allowed me to pot one more and position a third over a pocket whilst hiding the white behind one of mine. It would be an awkward shot for Tex and hopefully give me an advantage. What I didn’t take into account was his skill as he doubled one of his colours into the middle pocket and proceeded to down two more leaving me a very tough get out. Rather than going for a pot I decided on tactics and managed to move the black into a dangerous position, over a pocket and very close to one of his. I got a round of applause for that whilst Tex cleared up the rest of his colours apart from the strategic one. He had been over anxious on the kill and hadn’t quite taken into account the danger. Suddenly he was left with one ball, out of position on the white and a dangerous black hovering over a pocket. He had only one option and that was to carefully ease his ball out without disturbing the black. The problem was that the white, left in any position would allow me to clear up and finish comfortably on the black. The crowd sensing the dilemma started the countdown on time, ‘fifteen, fourteen, thirteen’ and so on. This put pressure on Tex and he fluffed the shot with his colour nudging the black and it slowly rolled in to the pocket with everyone urging it to fall. Tex shook my hands and gave me a bear hug. Everyone knew that honour was restored. I kindly asked him if he would mind swapping the champagne first prize for the claret. This cheered him up and Patrick rounded us up to go and attack the buffet.

The ice sculptures were something to behold and the seafood and meats were of equal match. Patrick came over and quietly thanked me for beating Tex since he had detected an unsavoury atmosphere after his defeat at the hands of Tex. He urged me to eat sparingly since the crew on the jet where preparing a feast also and he didn’t want to disappoint them. It was difficult not to gorge since the food was prepared by Yves and Luc who wanted to make up for their antics on the beach. Amanda and I were forced to taste their special lobster mouse and their crab filled cannelloni. We shared a plate though Amanda managed to scrounge another one to Luc’s delight. Patrick rounded us up and told us to leave quietly since he didn’t want to disrupt the party. We met up in the hall at the bottom of the lift shaft and the cars rolled up to take us to the airport.

The flight back to the London City Airport was full with four couples. This time we were joined by Patrick and Susan the owners, Trevor and Sally plus a mining and construction magnate and his wife, George and Trudi who I hadn’t met previously but they had apparently dealt with Partridge in the past. We squeezed into the small dining room and feasted on delicacies such as truffles and Kobi beef accompanied by copious amounts of Trevor’s own wines. The girls had excelled themselves and Patrick was pleased. We had coffee in the lounge area and Amanda managed to squeeze in next to me and whispered in my ear, “Darling, this weekend has been wonderful. Tell me how is it that you mix with such elite and super rich?”

“Just fortunate in going to the right school, the right university and having the right contacts.”

“Yes, but Patrick is years older than you.”

“Yes, but his younger brother was one of my fags at school when Partridge was busy. Patrick used to visit and would ask me to look after his younger brother. Make sure he wasn’t bullied and avoided the worst elements of a pure boy’s school. We have kept in touch and he tells me when there is room on any of his flights.”

“What about Sir Trevor and Sally. How do you know them?”

“Oh, only from Friday night, same as you Amanda.”

“But they seem to treat you and talk about you as if you’d been good friends for years. By the way, Trevor says they are going to black ball Gerard at his club. He’s standing for office and if he gets any black balls then he is obliged to resign or so he told me.”

“Oh dear, I hoped it wouldn’t come to that. Gerard entertains his major clients at the club and if he can’t do that then I’m afraid his business will suffer badly.”

“It’s probably too late to intervene now darling. By the way, Sally wants to see my apartment and she might want one like it. Trevor wants you to have a look at his numerous properties in London. He wants to sell them off and thinks that with your make over he will realise a much better value.”

“Are you doing a sales pitch on my behalf Amanda?”

“Not really Renton. I was just singing your praises and they liked the way you do your business. Can James drop you off first then I can take them back to my place. It will be quite a novelty having the nobility back at my flat.”

“Now, whose mixing with the high and mighty?”

“I have a good teacher who is also a pool champion I understand.”

Chapter 44

A week later I had a call from Amanda, “What are you doing this weekend Renton?”

“Amanda, are you asking me for a date so soon?”

“I wish! Sorry it came out like that but I had it in my diary that you were off to Warrington to see your brother Flash for his kid’s birthday?”

“I am, what of it? And how in the hell have you learned to read so fast?”

“Well, everybody talks of their diaries and appointments so why shouldn’t I?”

“Oh, OK.”

“Well, I have to be in Liverpool this weekend on business and I wanted company on the journey up, how about it?”

“Fine, but this is a family affair and I’m staying with them.”

“I understand loud and clear Renton. I’ll book two tickets for us First Class to Liverpool. I’m not travelling cattle class any more so there. Now can we set off early on Friday?”

“Why? And I want to go to Warrington not Liverpool.”

“Don’t split infinitives Renton. Your place is only a stone’s throw away. I’m going to meet and interview an up-and-coming designer and I want your opinion of her work and also of her as a person. She comes highly recommended and I like the designs that she’s sent me.”

“What do you want me for Amanda? Haven’t you made your mind up already?”

“Possibly, but I would like a second opinion from you. I want to know if your class of people would go for that design. It’s certainly anything but conservative.”

“OK Amanda, I’ll get James to pick you up and we’ll meet at the station."

“Thank you darling. I was counting on you.”  

The train was busy being Friday and businessmen escaping home for the weekend. We were fortunate to have seats next to a couple of guys who immediately disappeared to the bar or restaurant. We didn’t see them until near the end of the journey, so we had the open seating area to ourselves.

“Its great being together with you again Renton. Do you know what I enjoyed most about that weekend? No, and it wasn’t that although it was terrific. No, it was the moments when we were working together as a team. The girls laughed at this when I told them. All they wanted to hear about was the time we had between the sheets. The plane journey out there, the stroll along the prom to the casino, the sailing, the bar work and the performance we gave, they were really intimate moments that I shall cherish for ever and I’m not a sentimental person as you know.”

“Well, I enjoyed those times too Amanda. I was most impressed with your bar skills. You seem to cut through that crowd, balancing a huge tray of drinks over your head, like a hot knife through butter. Where did you learn those tricks?”

“You know I used to work at my uncle’s pub but when I was older, I also worked the bar at many pubs and clubs in the West End. I had a scam going again I’m afraid. I used to get a job as a bar maid at a pub that wasn’t doing so well and the place would suddenly fill up with my friends. For every drink they bought they got one free from me until the landlord cottoned on what was happening and I left before being fired and moved on to the next pub or club. The clubs charge extortionate amount for drinks, so I had no qualms fleecing them. The management were usually a bunch of greedy wankers who rubbed their hands together seeing the heaving crowd swigging away and only realising later that it was free booze. Me and my friends had a great time in those places”.

“Wow, that’s seems more dangerous than the shoplifting scam. Weren’t you threatened by the bouncers?”

“If any of us were threatened I’d get the lads to come in the next day and totally trash the place. The girls would cause a commotion outside the club to bring all the bouncers out and my lads would cause mayhem inside. Nobody ever messed with us in those days and got away with it lightly.”

“You’ve moved on from there I see.”

“Oh yes! I was a real bitch with attitude then. I had fun but wasted my time when I looked back. By the way, thanks for finding me that teacher, she’s really sweet and comes seven in the morning prompt and stays as long as I want her. We are doing word recognition. She’s going through all my business correspondence and picking out the jargon and prepares cards for me to read out. We’ve got a board and she puts them up, some single words and some sentences and I have to read them out loud. She brought me some Mills and Boon but I insisted on Shakespeare. She was impressed but I didn’t tell her that I had read or listened to all the talking books. Writing is a bit more difficult and I haven’t got the patience for it.”

“Well done Amanda. You will find it opens another World for you that you never know existed. You’ll get great pleasure out of it.”

“I’m sure but my next project is to get myself a fella before I’m too old and past it!”

“You surely don’t have any trouble getting men Amanda. They flock around you like bees around a beehive.”

“I know but I want one just like you but an older version. I’ve spotted one and I want your blessing.”

“Do I know this fellow?”

“Course you do, it’s your immediate boss, the MD at the Estate Agency where you work part time as a salesman.”

“What Biggles? And less of the part time stuff.”

“Yes Nigel, what of it? And why do you lot call him Biggles?”

“Well, you can’t go calling a big guy like him Nigel so at school they started calling him Niggles and this turned to Biggles when he got interested in model planes. He was some five years my senior. You know he has two young children?”  

“Of course, I do and I know his wife died in a car accident and all that, a ready made family.”

“I’m not that mumsified Renton. In fact, I’m not sure I can have kids. All that slimming and all that didn’t do my insides any good at all. I’m hoping for your blessing and help on this quest. I think Nigel will be just right for me.”

“Never thought of that Amanda. He’s a very nice guy and I’m sure that he would love a wife to bring up his kids but I didn’t put you in the same picture.”

“What do you mean Renton? Don’t you think I’m good enough for him?”

“It’s not that Amanda, it’s more that you may be too glamorous for him. Too striking and… and bubbly for him.”

“What are you trying to say Renton? Spit it out.”

“Well let’s say, if you made a sudden pass for him then you’d scare the shit out of him.”

“I know he finds me attractive, the way he looks me up and down.”

“Yeah, but all guys find you attractive Amanda but like a dolly bird in a show case. Look but don’t touch. To hook Biggles.. sorry Nigel, you will have to be more subtle and don’t make any sudden advances or you will scare him off. Let me think about it and don’t make any move on him until I have worked things out.”

“Thanks darling, I knew I could count on you. Renton, can I ask you a personal question?”

“Yes, Amanda but don’t expect an answer. What is it and don’t pull that hurt face on me!”

“Just playing with you Renton. I see you’ve only your tiny bag with you. Have you bought your cousin a birthday present, that’s what I want to know? Just in case you have forgotten.”

“Of course I have, bought him an electric guitar and amp. Not sure his parents will approve but I spoke to him when he invited me up for his party and would I play. He’s got some old acoustic I gather, so I hope he’ll be pleased.”

“You’re a darling Renton and I wish I had an uncle like you. Where is it, this guitar?”

“Had it delivered next door, all gift wrapped and all that. Now to change the subject, tell me about this girl we have to interview. Have you met her?”

“No, but I have her CV here. My teacher read it out to me. She seems a bit precocious and full of herself but you can put that down to young age. I remember, I was like that, full of shit and didn’t care a sod. It’s her work, her designs that caught my eye and her tutor talks highly of her.”

“Where are we going to interview her?”

“I booked a conference room at my hotel and asked her to display her work so you and I can see what she can do and say for herself. I have an odd feeling about her. It’s almost as if she was a threat to me in some way. Sounds ridiculous.”

“Interesting idea getting her to show off her skills. Apparently, all managers find it easier to hire people that won’t be a threat to them and end up with dross. The skill is to employ highflyers who will make you look good and you can then promote them if they become a threat. Maybe you have similar feelings about this girl.”

“But you told me that in your first job as boss you employed dross?”

“I did but it was for a reason. I was only planning to stay for a year and I needed people to do my bidding not question me too much. It wasn’t all dross. There was Suzy on my team and she’s doing very well.”

“By the way, she sends her regards and hopes to come over to London shortly. I’ve invited her to stay with me. Will you read her CV out loud to refresh my memory and order me some coffee when the steward comes. No, no need to get up, I’m not that desperate.” I read the CV out loud to Amanda and a second time to myself so that I could pause and think things through. Amanda was right, there was something peculiar about this girl though she ticked all of the boxes for Amanda’s requirements as a designer. A horse woman, owned two stallions, entered lots of competitions, won lots of prizes. Caroline Frasier seemed to have something about her. There was no photograph so I could only imagine what she might look like. I had a wicked thought that she might look more like the back of a horse than the front. Amanda had ordered a cab to take us to the hotel and the driver was waiting on the platform to take her luggage.

“I’ll check in darling. You wait in the lobby and I’ll be down shortly. Just check where the Winston conference suite is with the concierge and enquire discreetly if she is there. I think I’d like to surprise her. We are rather early and her reaction might be telling.”

“Fine Amanda. I’ll also check public transport to get me to Warrington.”

“Already sorted Renton. I have booked and paid for a car to take you there. I predicted your cheapskate ways.” I smiled and didn’t have time to argue as I watched Amanda lope gracefully to the reception desk, accompanied by all of the male and most of the female eyes in the lobby at the time. She did look good. Finding the concierge, I had difficulty in getting his full attention as he watched Amanda at reception, hoping some way she would come his way. I ascertained that Miss Frasier was and had been in the Winston suite for some two hours and the directions were clearly signed. I found a seat in one of those ludicrously large sofas that they seem to have in hotel lounges and picked up a local advertising magazine, waiting for Amanda to reappear.

She wasn’t long and I guided her along the long tedious corridors, common to all hotels, to the Winston suite. We pushed open the door into conference like room, set out with a big oval table, big enough to seat some twenty people. The walls were neatly adorned with large sketches, some with swatches of fabric attached. At the far end of the room was a tall girl, with black shoulder length hair, wearing an enormous blue striped rugby shirt with number eight on the back and a pair of large, black tailoring scissors in her right hand.

“Hello,” said Amanda raising her voice, “Hello, you must be Caroline. We are a bit early!” as the girl spun around and greeted us with a brilliant smile. A beautiful oval face, small sharp nose, dark complexion and bright dark eyes; very attractive was my instant feeling.

“Hello, I’m Caroline but call me Klyne, everybody does,” she replied quickly, placing her scissors on the table and quickly approaching us, “excuse me but I was going to change before you arrived,” gracing us with another one of her dazzling smiles. “I’ve just finished setting up the display for you and just doing the final checks.”

“You look fine Klyne. Stay as you are, we would like it to be informal. By the way, this handsome hunk is Renton. We call him just ‘Renton,’ that’s how he likes it.”

“Pleased to meet you er.. Renton,” as he shook my hand firmly. Amanda greeted her in the French style with three kisses which took Klyne by surprise. “How do you want to proceed? Would you like coffee first?”

“Why don’t you show us your display and talk us through,” requested Amanda. “We won’t ask any questions until you finish so don’t think us rude, just think of it as part of the interview process.”

“OK, but I must say I just wasn’t expecting anybody like you two. I was expecting a horsy type, all fuddy-duddy, not someone as beautiful like you Amanda,” she said, looked directly at me and started stuttering and stopped.

“That’s very kind of you Klyne. Now where would you like us to start?” Klyne gave me another puzzled look and led the way to the front of the room and talked about her work and developments in her style. As we walked round, she described each piece and its significance. She kept glancing at me and hurriedly turning away. By a third of the way through her display she had linked arms with Amanda, almost conspiratorially, and almost ignored me apart from an occasional smile. It took us about thirty minutes to be shown the full display and her description of each piece. She spoke well and clearly, almost in a clipped manner as if she was nervous. “Thank you Klyne. That was wonderful presentation and I’m most impressed with your work. What are your first impressions Renton?”

“I understand why you asked me here Amanda. This girl has talent, even for a big ignoramus like me who doesn’t understand this kind of fashion. I’m most impressed. Let’s sit down and take this all in,” directing Amanda and Klyne to sit at the end of the table.

“Thank you but I thought you were part of Amanda’s team Mr. Renton?” she said rather quizzically.

“Ah no, I’m just a salesman, selling property in London.”

“Don’t you believe him Klyne,” interjected Amanda, “he’s the Sales Director in his own Estate Agency.”

“Oh, sorry, I though you worked for Amanda maybe?” answered Klyne looking even more puzzled than before.

“If Amanda is to offer you a job, I would recommend that you join our Design Department where you would get a wider experience in things like interior design, soft furnishings and fabrics, rather than just the narrow field that Amanda is offering.” 

“That’s a good idea Renton. You could then bounce off ideas with your colleagues and they may even be of some help to you. What do you think Klyne?”

“Well, er, I think I would certainly consider that seriously. I’m not sure. I want to work on my own. Just a question, I did some investigation on Renton Holdings and associated companies. I presume your father is heading up the Company. Am I right?” asked Klyne.

“Sorry Klyne but we don’t mention Renton’s parents,” answered Amanda. “Renton here is in fact the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of Renton Holdings and he plays a secondary role as Director of Sales in the Estate Agency. Is there a problem Klyne? You look rather worried, are you OK?”

“I’m fine, I’m fine,” she answered hurriedly, “It’s just you look too young to head up such a large organisation.”

“He is young Klyne, but all the Directors voted him into that position,” said Amanda, “He’s more than capable. We all value his judgement and advice. Now Klyne we still haven’t got a satisfactory reply to our question about joining our Design department. Do you want time to think about it?” 

“Er, I’m not sure. I’m a little mixed up. Maybe I should work as a freelance and do work for you Amanda as required. Maybe that’s best,” she answered in a rather shaky manner.

“I’ll go and get some fresh coffee. This stuff is dreadful,” I said and got up from the table, “You two carry on and discuss the various possibilities,” and I headed for the door. Hidden from Klyne’s view I mouthed to Amanda, ‘Sort her out!’ and closed the door. I wandered off in the direction of the lobby and found a helpful housemaid who dropped what she was doing and went off to get a new cafétier, with precise instructions on how much coffee and how much water to use. I waited in the lobby hoping it wouldn’t be too quick, to give Amanda time to find out what was bothering Klyne. Ten minutes later, the Concierge came up to me and told me that the tray of coffee was on its way to the Winston Conference rooms. I managed to intercept the housemaid, to retrieve the silver tray set out tastefully with best china cups, saucers, large cafétier, and a selection of biscuits. I gave her a handsome tip and carried the tray into the room. Amanda and Klyne were in deep, hushed conversation and Klyne looked red eyed as if she had been crying. I set down the tray and poured out three cups of strong black coffee.

“Klyne,” said Amanda addressing Klyne and ignoring me, “Why don’t you take your coffee and give Renton and me about ten minutes to discuss things.” Klyne jumped up and was out of the room before I had time to hand her a coffee. “It’s all your fault Renton!” hissed Amada with venom.

“What have I done Amanda? I didn’t do anything to upset her,” I answered guardedly.

“What do you mean you don’t know? The poor girl has fallen head over heels in love with you and you didn’t detect that? You can’t be that insensitive?”

“Look Amanda, I realised that there was something upsetting her, that’s why I left you two on a pretext so that you could find out what the problem was. I didn’t say anything to upset her!” I answered defensively.

“Men! You don’t know anything. When she found out that you were the head honcho, she went to pieces. She though she had a chance of maybe making out with you if you were a bloody salesman but not when she found out you were the top boss. I should never have asked you here Renton. You’re a liability around young women. They all go weak at the knees and lose their senses. Now why don’t you just bugger off to your brother’s place and let me pick up the pieces. I can’t afford to lose this girl. She’s a genius as you will probably agree. There will be a car waiting for you to take you to Warrington and I give you a call. Bye!” and I was duly dismissed and went out aggrieved with my tail between my legs. 

Just as we were finishing Kevin’s birthday lunch, Helen, Flash’s wife shouted, “Renton, you’re wanted! A call for you!” I excused myself from the table and was handed the phone in the kitchen and Helen quickly disappeared, closing the door behind her.

“Renton! At last, I think I have sorted something out, no thanks to you!” said Amanda in an exasperated tone.”

“Oh good, then I can sleep in peace Amanda,” I answered trying to lighten the atmosphere.

“Don’t jest with me Renton, it’s all your fault to begin with. Now listen and don’t interrupt. I’ve spent all morning with Klyne and I’ve come up with a plan. Now you fancy Klyne don’t you Renton?” 

“Now what kind of question is that Amanda?”

“Now don’t be stupid Renton, of course you fancy her.”

“OK, I fancy her.”

“I know you do. Any bloke worth his socks would. Now I’ve arranged a dinner date for you in Manchester tomorrow night with her.”

“No can do Amanda, I have a birthday party to attend here.”

“Now don’t interrupt Renton, I’ve cleared it with Helen and she agrees. You help Kevin in the afternoon to set up the garage, at six you do your warming act and get the party going, at eight Helen brings in the party food and a car will take you to the Midlands Hotel in Manchester. Now listen and don’t interrupt. After their meal, Kevin will play and sing a couple of songs that you taught him on his guitar and then they will do some karaoke. They don’t want old fuddy duddies like you around for that. I’ve booked you a nice room for the evening so after dinner you make sure that you take her to bed and give her a good time.” 

“Hey Amanda, since when have you been arranging my love life?”

“Look Renton, this is the only way you are going to resurrect this situation, so listen. In the morning, I want you to creep out and leave her asleep. A car will be waiting to take you back to Warrington, in time for Kevin’s football match.”

“It’s rugby actually Amanda.”

“Doesn’t matter and I’ll see you at lunch. Helen has invited me and we’ll catch the train back to London together.”

“Is that all? I bed the girl and she’ll flip up to your bidding? I don’t think so Amanda!”

“I’ll tell you the rest later Renton. You just do your stuff.”

“You’re making me into a gigolo!”

“No am not! You can’t remain celibate for much longer Renton! You’re not going out with anybody at the moment, are you?”

“She won’t fall asleep on me will she?”

“Renton you promised never to raise that subject!”

“Sorry Amanda. A promise is a promise,” I answered, pleased that I had touched on a sore spot as Amanda closed the call.

My mobile vibrated against my side and I wandered off into a more secluded place in the lobby of the hotel. “Yes Amanda, what is it now?”

“Just checking that you are there. I have arranged champagne for your room so enjoy it. Has she arrived yet?” I looked up and saw all the male eyes focused on one target. I turned my head and saw what the object of interest was. “Just arrived Amanda and causing a flurry if interest. I think I will be elbowed out by the competition.”

“Don’t be silly Renton. What is she wearing?”

“A sack and face smeared with mud!”

“Renton!”

“OK, OK, she probably would have made the same impact if she had. Short blue dress, showing off her long legs, hair up with one of those tortoise shell clip combs holding it in place, blue high heeled shoes, and a large handbag to set off the whole outfit. Only sunglasses missing!”

“Renton, don’t be facetious! Does she look fabulous?”

“Yes, our girl scrubs up well.”

“Go on then, go and sweep her of her feet and stop talking to me!”

“I thought you were the one delaying my approach. Now what chat up line shall I use? How about ‘Amanda says I have to rip your clothes off and ravage you in the restaurant’ or something less subtle?”

“Get on with it Renton!” and rang off. 

Fortunately, I didn’t discuss the matter of Klyne until we were on the train bound for London and then allowing Amanda to raise the subject. “Renton, you treated Klyne royally last night. I feel jealous.”

“So, you’ve spoken to her then?”

“Spoken? She was on the phone to me for a whole hour until I reminded her that it was the hotel phone and I was paying for it. She was just full of it. Wait till I tell the girls.”

“Hey, I’m not sure I want my exploits broadcast from the rooftops to all a sundry!”

“Renton, you are public property let me have you know, but only the select few get the details and the juicy bits.”

“Is that half the World’s population then?”

“Of course not you idiot! Just the select few, Yolanda, Jadja, Suzy, Lorraine and yours truly; the ones you have been intimate with and bedded.”

“But I haven’t slept with Jadja!” I protested strongly.

“No but you’ve washed her down all over and ogled her naked with eyes on stalks. Anyway, she is one of the clique and we have an official conference call to bring everyone up to date.”

“Will Klyne be a member?”

“Of course she is and she has lots to tell. Now let’s get down to the nitty-gritty bits. I’ve arranged for Klyne to stay with you in Mayfair.”

“I hope that Elizabeth knows about this. At least she’s got plenty of spare guest rooms in the main building.”

“No silly, she will be staying in your apartment and in your bed and not in the second bedroom!”

“Hey! Hang on, I’ve never yet shacked up with a girl and I’m not sure I’m ready for it yet Amanda.”

“Of course you are. It’s time you had the flavour of married life and Lizzie approves so it’s settled!”

“Lizzie! You mean Elizabeth, don’t you?”

“Of course, but her friends call her Lizzie. We all know you call her ‘Mum’ and that makes her weak in the knees. Partinger reckons she spoils you rotten.”

“Look Amanda, if it’s a taste of married life you are planning for me then Mayfair is not it. It’s like living in a ten-star hotel, all found. Since you took Elizabeth on that cookery course, we are all subjected to cordon bleu meals served restaurant style. Printed menus, silver service, best wines and I have to act as the sommelier.”

“Yes and how is it you know so much about wines Renton? Everybody is so impressed when you bring those wines up from the cellar to go with each course.”

“I’ll let you into a little secret, shall I Amanda? When I go down, Henry texts me the bin numbers. Mind you I’ve learned a lot from him. As you know he describes each wine as if it was one of his mistresses.”

“Well, I wouldn’t have guessed because he always complains that you should have brought something else. I see now, that is just a ploy. Now darling, you will just have to look after her when she comes to London and not ignore her.”

“Since you called me ‘darling’ does that mean you’ve forgiven me for my misdemeanours in Liverpool?”

“You’re being silly again Renton. Of course you’re forgiven darling.”

“You’ve forgotten one thing Amanda and that is Millie the maid. She won’t have Klyne queering her pitch,” I remarked in triumph and playing my trump card.

“Millicent will get over it Renton. Yeah, she may not iron your sock or stop putting creases down your boxers for awhile but she’ll get used to it. It will be a change for her and she’ll be happy to have some more female company in the house. So that’s settled now.”

“I suppose so,” I answered gloomily.

“Hey Renton, it’s not the end of the World. She’s a lovely girl and I know you like her. Did she tell you about herself?”

“Not a lot, she was too busy finishing her meal and dragging me off to the room to waste on chit chat.”

“You know she’s of Argentinean origin and her mother spend most of her time over there. Grandfather jumped ship in Liverpool that was bound for St Petersburg and set up and import-export business. The whole family works there now.”

“I got a bit of that between mouthfuls.”

“Now to change the subject, Helen tells me that you were a big hit with Kevin and his sister Wendy worships the ground you walk on. She has a real crush on you.”

“She’s only ten for goodness sake!”

“You see, that’s the effect you have on us defenceless women. Even Helen is rather soft on you. She was a little bit put out that you weren’t sleeping over on Saturday night. She wanted to peek at you in the shower I don’t doubt.”

“You’ve got a vivid imagination Amanda. They are a lovely family and I’ll have to make more time for them.”

“Now what plans have you got for me darling?”

“What do you mean?”

“Look, I’ve sorted out your love life for you successfully and I though you were going to do the same for me with Nigel. I’ve done what you’ve said and kept a distance from him though I haven’t ignored him and made sure he has seen the best side of me, a bit of thigh here and a quick peek of my cleavage. Nothing vulgar you know.”

“I told you not to frighten him off. Sounds as if the poor guy is quivering in his shoes. Look Amanda, I’ll sort something out. I haven’t forgotten but I don’t want to make it all too obvious. Now stay clear of him. Stay at a distance for the moment until my plan comes together. Now don’t ask yet. Be patient, darling!”

Chapter 45

“Partridge, how are you doing? Long time no see!”

“Not my fault Renton. I see you’re busy breaking in an Argentinean filly. Has she got a sister half as good looking? I seem to be spending an awful long time in the Design Department these days.”

“You’re no help with my domestic arrangements Partridge. I now know what it feels like being a second-class citizen.”

“You’ll get over it my boy. If you think of ditching the sweet girl then put a good word in for me, wont you?”

“Piss off Partridge! You can find your own dolly birds from now on!”

“Temper, temper Renton and you being such a nice boy.”

“The reason I called is that a little bird tells me that you have been over generous with Company funds.”

“Shouldn’t listen to gossip but its true. I’ve just cleared out all the funds from our Company and bought myself a huge yacht that sunk on delivery and I hadn’t enough funds in the kitty to insure it.”

“Pity it wasn’t on its maiden voyage with you in it.”

“You shouldn’t have taught me to swim Renton. Be prepared for all eventualities I say. Anyway, what are you getting at?”

“I see you have been allocating me shares in lieu of salary.”

“Is that all? I’ve also been building up your pension pot, not that you know or care what a pension is these days,”

“But I stipulated I didn’t need any remuneration until the family debt had been settled.”

“Out of my hands dear boy. The board voted unanimously and surprise, surprise you weren’t there at the meeting to object. Sorry old boy but you’ll just have to lump it. It’s not costing the Company anything and since you’re the major share holder now if we go tits up you will take all the blame. It’s OK, I promise to visit you regularly in the debtor’s jail.”

“Am I ever going to extricate myself from this mess Partridge?

“I think there is a good chance Renton. I’ve just dictated a letter to the shareholders that we are reducing the dividend this year and suggesting other more interesting investments for them. I don’t expect a flood of applications but we should pay off a few million. In a couple of years, we will be in a position to close the shop on that account. Some want to invest in our mainstream business so we may consider floating the Company. I’ve just set up a project to check out what our potential worth might be.”

“But do we need all that investment at this moment Partridge? I thought we were trying to keep small and friendly?”

“It would be an influx of cheap money Renton and I’m going to put forward a new proposal for consideration at our next meeting. Make sure you’re there Renton, now bugger off to the coal face and sell some more properties, bye.”

 

Kyle moved in the following weekend and to my dismay Elizabeth and Millie took her to heart and I was left in the lurch. They couldn’t do enough for her to settle her in. The staff apartment suddenly became the guest suite and new bedding and linen was immediately purchased in great quantity because the regime now demanded it be changed daily. Flowers appeared in profusion and instead of me, moi, being the centre of attention I had my nose disjointed good and proper. Kyle had to sit next to Henry at the head of the table and a special menu was created of her likes with no account of me. White wine was served with absolutely everything including best Aberdeen Angus bloody steaks because sweet Kyle preferred white even though she didn’t know a fart about wines. I stopped getting creases ironed in my boxer shorts, in fact they and my socks didn’t get ironed at all. I had to beg Millie to iron a shirt for me. I couldn’t even get a good night’s rest since I had to perform on cue. I didn’t mind that and even enjoyed it but the lack of sleep was catching up with me. I was also relegated to the spare bathroom down the corridor with a hopeless shower over the bath. I did think I might just transfer myself totally to that bathroom and sleep in the bath. At least I could bolt the door. I gave the whole transaction two weeks and if things hadn’t changed for the better, I was going to move out. Plenty of apartments undergoing transformation at the moment and I’m sure the Polish gangs wouldn’t mind an additional mattress on the floor. The food might be more interesting with goodly portions of bigos and stuffed cabbage rather than endless steaks and chips. What had happened to Elizabeth’s desires to be a Michelin starred chef?  

 

The two weeks were up but I was trapped. Klyne announced that her mother would be visiting and since she was a conservative with a capital ‘C’ on the moral front, I was to move out. This was my opportunity I thought and collected my meagre belongings together for a swift exit but I was beaten to the post by Millie and Elizabeth moving me into the box room in the main building. Not into one of the elegant guest bedrooms but a box room. I expected at least some sympathy from Partridge and Henry but they both thought it right and proper that mother would take over my former grand bedroom and her daughter the second room. At least I though I would get some undisturbed nights and catch up on my sleep but no such luck. As soon as I made excuses and slipped to my box room, Kyle would come up and abuse my body. When she had finished and fell asleep her elbows and knees were too vicious for my liking in a narrow bed and I ended up sleeping on the hard floor. For some unaccountable reason the dragon was persuaded to stay on for another week before she was to depart to some foreign lands. In her honour a special gala dinner was planned with all stops out to the full and an extensive guest list was drawn up. I took the opportunity to hatch my plan and ensured that both Amanda and Biggles were on the guest list. 

Elizabeth had contracted a Chef she knew to come and prepare the five-course meal and Henry himself was designated to choose the best wines for each course. A young whipper-snapper like me couldn’t be trusted with such important decisions. Two mature ladies were entrusted with the task of waiting at table and James was suddenly promoted to sommelier instead of his usual position of butler which for this occasion was apparently too ostentatious. Millie or Millicent as she was now to be referred to at all times was to greet the guests, take their coats and galoshes and show them into the drawing room where Henry and Elizabeth would receive them and James would distribute the champagne. All this was imparted to me by Kyle who was now a true confidante of Elizabeth’s. I stayed clear only to have a certain influence on the seating plan.

“Now listen carefully Amanda, I’m only going to say ziss only once!”

“Stop being silly Renton! I hope you have a plan and it better be good!”

“Well, I think the outcome will be better than you engineered for me with Klyne. I’m knackered. Haven’t had a good night’s sleep for ages and the floor is so damn uncomfortable. Any chance of a bed in your spare room Amanda, please?”

“You’re being silly again, now tell me the plan!”

“I’ve got you seated next to Biggles.”

“I know that already and stop calling him Biggles!”

“Oh, then I suppose you know I have purchased, at great expense, two best seats at Covent Garden for the Opera, Marriage of Figaro?”

“I don’t like opera Renton, you know that!”

“Ah, but I know you haven’t been exposed to that treat fully and Biggles is an opera buff.”

“It’s Nigel or I put the phone down Renton!”

“Here I am working my ass off as a match-maker and all you do is abuse me!”

“Get on with it Renton!”

“Yes, dearest darling! You can slip into the conversation that you have been given some tickets and that you are an opera virgin. I shouldn’t use the virgin word if I were you. ‘Darling Nigel,’ you say to him, ‘You know something about opera don’t you? I don’t know a thing.’ Let the conversation go on including showing some true ignorance like, ‘I think it’s the Marriage of Figaro by the author, somebody called Mozart.’ It’s a ‘composer’ and not an ‘author’ but you know that. Then you slip in something like, ‘be a darling Nigel and take me there. I would be totally lost since I believe it’s all in German,’ and he replies, ‘I would be honoured and delighted Amanda and please call me Biggles, everybody else does.’

“Renton, that’s the worst chat up line I’ve heard for years but I get the drift.”

“Good, then get yourself to your singing teacher pronto and get him to give you a crash course on opera, Mozart, the story of the opera, so that you can ask some intelligent questions. This will give you the opportunity for you to cuddle up to him close and whisper during the performance, since you can’t talk loudly or eat pop corn at these events. Make sure you spray yourself generously with perfume so he gets the full blast.” 

“I like the sound of things so far. What shall I wear?”

“Something quite formal for these events but it does allow you to go for something revealing that will raise his blood pressure. Now be on your best behaviour. Let Nigel suggest the drinks and get them for you. Act as if you are a schoolgirl and this is your first date so let him guide you to the seats and don’t look around and wave at people. Also leave your gum behind.”

“You’re sounding like somebody’s posh mother darling.”

“Does that ‘darling’ mean you approve Amanda?”

“Fine so far but what about dinner and pudding after?”

“If he suggests dinner then be delighted. In fact, you could mention during the interval that you haven’t had anything to eat which would be a prompt. He likes Japanese so again behave as if this is the first time you’ve had that kind of food. Let him walk you through the menu. As for pudding, my advice is, don’t push it Amanda. I don’t think he is the type who would ask you to bed on his first date. He’s got his babysitters or Au pair to contend with and the idea of a hotel room would not be his style.”

“OK, OK Renton, I get it. I have to go back in time fifteen years and behave demurely as if it’s my first date.”

“How old were you then?”

“Don’t ask. Now, what should I wear for the dinner?”

“Nothing way out Amanda and don’t compete with the other girls. He would like you looking more ordinary, than off the pages of Vogue. Now also watch your manners, no elbows on the table, loud talk and don’t hold your knife like a pen as if you were writing a letter, not cutting up prime steak.”

“I’ll take my cue from you Renton.”

“Now I’m leaving you to arrange another outing with our Nigel, another evening at the opera so he can tutor you more or maybe a play at the Globe Theatre. He’s a bit of a culture vulture is our Biggles but doesn’t get out as often as he would like because of the kids. That reminds me, there is an open-air concert in Hyde Park coming up soon. You might suggest you both go with the kids and Aunty Amanda can take them to the swings and feed the ducks.” 

“The plan sounds good darling but I’m not sure that I could put up with all this cultural stuff.”

“It’s part of your education Rita, along with the three R’s. You might even like it, especially if you do your homework before hand so that you understand the finer points. That’s another thing. Get him to take you to the Tate. He’s got a brilliant eye for art and a wonderful patter to go with it. You would enjoy it and learn something darling.”

“Thanks Renton, I think I’ll go and get some acting lessons in being demure and ladylike instead of a brash bitch that I am.”

“Amanda, you’ve discarded many of those rough edges and now you have to learn the rules and etiquette of the middle classes. With your wealth these days, you certainly can count yourself being on the highest rung.”

“What do you know about my wealth Renton? Has bloody Partridge been gassing again?”

“Calm down Amanda. It doesn’t take a genius to calculate your wealth. I know how much you earn and how much tax you pay. I am the CEO may I remind you. I have to have access to all these things.”

“Sorry Renton, I’m just used to being secretive about such things.”

“Now, I confuse the shit out of the pundits. Some think I’m a pauper, living on handouts and others rich beyond means, when they see my lifestyle. By the way, I raised the matter of share allocations with Partridge and he came clean. I didn’t tell him you told me just that I had found this out in the Company Accounts. I’ll send the tickets to you and go out and buy a CD of the opera in English and German and listen to it all a few times. Bye!”

The dining room was set out in a muted style, without the usual array of sparkling wine glasses and polished silver cutlery. The only table decoration was a row of single gerbera set in low-cut crystal glasses, down the centre of the table. The first impression that this was to be a modest dinner until one studied the ample menu with several choices for each of the seven courses. Henry escorted Klyne’s mother Edwina, who was a tall portly lady in a tent like chiffon gown that did little for her. I had taken an instant dislike of her but made every effort not to show the fact and probably went too far the other way. I purposefully kept out of her way. Partridge escorted his mother Elizabeth, Stasiek led Alice, Biggles with Klyne, myself with Amanda and Duncan led Partridge’s new lady Lucinda into the dining room. The gentlemen seated the ladies in style and then found their own places. The waitresses quickly set out the first course which was a concoction of white asparagus tips and what I could only describe as scrambled egg, laced with slivers of truffle. Henry announced the wine and described its credentials whilst James the sommelier quickly poured us a discreet measure. The flavour of the starter dish was wonderful as the guests leaned over their plates to waft the intense aroma of the truffles. This bode well for the rest of the meal. The plates were expertly cleared and the places set for the next course including a new glass. The pause allowed the conversation to flow and suddenly I was being addresses by the battle axe. 

“What is it that you actually do for a living young man?” she said with a strong accent which was a cross between what I would consider Prussian German and rural French, without any twang of Scouse, with which she was brought up.

“He’s a professional playboy,” answered Partridge with a serious face.

“He occasionally sells things, nothing dodgy,” added Biggles in a matter of fact way.

“He can’t even afford a decent suit,” added Duncan casually, “Spends most of his time in jeans and T-shirt.”

“Does he have a job?” questioned the dragon.

“Of course he has mother,” said Klyne with some irritation.

“Not a real job,” interjected Biggles followed by, “Ouch!” as a well aimed kick caught him in the shins. 

“Can’t he answer for himself?” questioned the lady.

“No cos he’s deluded by his self importance,” added Partridge followed by another expletive as his shin received the sharp edge of a Jimmy Shoo stiletto. 

“Sorry to interrupt ladies and gentlemen,” announced Henry as he came to rescue the degenerating conversation. “I have a special little number to go with the next course. An Italian white from a private vineyard.” The waitresses brought out plates of exotic seafood, decorated with green seaweed and James poured the white wine. I spent the course trying not to look at Klyne who was doing her utmost to catch my attention. I had obviously been written out of the old crone’s will, for the rest of the meal she didn’t look at me, even when I held court on some topic of general interest. 

Each course was better than the next. Elizabeth and her chef had excelled themselves. The wines were the best that Henry’s cellar could offer and I enjoyed the fact that Klyne was enjoying the reds, having refused reds before. At the end of the meal and toasts to the Chef, Elizabeth and the old crone, the ladies were invited to depart to gossip in the drawing room whilst the gentlemen made the way to the games room for a tasting session of best vintage ports, whiskies and clarets. Smoking was verboten in this new age. The pool table got well used and the conversation digressed from the sumptuous meal to questioning if Edwina was a real woman or a man in bad drag.

Chapter 46

“Renton, I’m dying to tell you how I got on last night.”

“You sound excited enough for me to assume that you enjoyed the opera then?”

“Oh, it was just fantastic. I took your advice to swat up on it all and my music teacher went through the whole thing with me, even had me singing some of the parts. I didn’t know such beautiful things existed. I even went to Covent Gardens one evening on a recce, to see what the ladies were wearing so as to not look out of place.”

“Good thinking batman!”

“I even got up the courage to go to the library to get some books on Opera and Mozart. First time in my life. Told the helpful lady I wanted something simple. She directed me to the children’s section which I thought was a bit cheeky until she said that for my daughter this would be the best place to look.”

“So, you joined the library and now a ticket holder?”

“Give over! I just nicked them, though I’ll probably take them back. My English teacher helped me read through them and now I can even manage them myself now.”

“Where did you arrange to meet?”

“Met outside so he could escort me in. I complained of ill-fitting high heels and that I would have to cling onto him tightly to support me to my seat. Nigel seemed to enjoy that.”

“You mischievous cow!”

“During the performance, I had to lean into him to whisper questions about the performance. I think he got drunk on my perfume and a little distracted by a good view of my cleavage.”

“So where did you eat afterwards? The Japanese place I recommended?”

“No way Renton. I could see he had the hots for me, so I suggested he come and see my etchings.”

“And he agreed?”

“No pressure Renton. As soon as we got through the door he ravaged me violently on the sofa and then I managed to persuade him that it might be more romantic in the bedroom.”

“I don’t suppose he’s had it since his wife died, poor sod?”

“Anyway, we spent a romantic night and he even promised to take me out to another opera again next week.”

“Good man.”

“He rang this morning and apologised though. He said he had been too forward and felt that he probably wasn’t the type for me. He actually said that he supposed that a Renton type would suit me better. I thought I had blown it then. I told him that Renton’s of this world were overrated.”

“Hey! Hang on there girl!”

“I said I’d rather have a relation with a more mature, solid person like him and that settled him down I think.”

“Was there any mention of the kids?”

“Yeah, I brought it up and suggested I take them to see the horses. Bugger the ducks. I’m taking them alone on Saturday morning, ending up with a spot of lunch.”

“Aren’t you in danger of moving too fast Amanda?”

“I know what I’m doing Renton thank you. I’ll give him room. I need to swat up on the next opera called something ‘mouse’ I think.”

“You mean Die Fledermaus by your friend Mozart again.”

“Thanks, means back to the library again. How are you getting on with Klyne now that her mother has gone?”

“Things are much better in my big bed, although she refers to it as ‘hers.’ Even Millie’s ironing my socks again and looking after me as before. Funnily, Klyne is no longer the central attraction. Even things have cooled off with Elizabeth and I’m back collecting the wines from the cellar.”

“Why do you ask?”

“Nothing!”  

“What do you mean ‘nothing’?”

“No, it’s just that she was so cross with you for not standing up against the jibes at dinner the other night. Do you know, she told me that her mother advised her not to have anything to do with you. She even suggested to Elizabeth that you should be moved out of Mayfair.”

“Not surprised Amanda. Klyne tells me she never got on with her mother. Both too highly strung I expect.”

“I’m glad things are on an even keel between you. Must dash, have an appointment at the library. Don’t forget the Board meeting tomorrow. Wouldn’t want us to arrange some dastardly deed for you in your absence again? Bye darling.”

Chapter 47

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen, lads and lasses et al. I have a new agenda before me and someone has added Caroline Frasier to the list. I presume they mean Klyne. What’s this about, eh?” I questioned and found eyes averted. “OK, who added it to the list?”

“I did.”

“OK Duncan, since you added it just before the meeting then it must be important. Is there a problem with Klyne?”

“Yes, there is.”

“Is it between me and Klyne, Is that the problem? Do you all have a problem with her?”

“Yes, we do Renton,” interjected Amanda. 

“Oh? Am I the cause?”

“No, just Klyne, she’s the problem and we need to fix it quick,” answered Amanda firmly.

“OK, OK, I’m in the dark on this one. Will someone just explain in simple language that I can understand because I’m missing something here and I’ve been left out in the dark.”

“I will.”

“Well, spit it out Duncan and don’t spare any blushes.”

“She’s causing problems in my office and elsewhere. She’s a bit too abrasive and rubs people up the wrong way. We couldn’t possibly have her meet any of our clients.”

“Well sack her, get rid, she’s still in her probation time. I have no trouble with that, if she is causing so much of a problem. Should never have appeared on this agenda; you guys make your own decisions.”

“We can’t sack her!” said Amanda with some exasperation in her voice, “She’s too good and too talented to be discarded just like that.”

“OK, what is the solution then?”

“You are Renton,” answered Duncan.

“Me? What can I do? I haven’t noticed any abrasive qualities other than when you guys wound things up at dinner that night and that was deserved.”

“No, she’s just sweetness and light when she is with you Renton,” said Amanda quickly. “It’s when she is with other people, she behaves as if she was a stuck-up bitch and I know one when I see one. Duncan’s office staff are adamant that she needs to change her ways or go.”

“Have you spoken to her Duncan, counselled her?”

“Yes, we all have had a go on numerous occasions and to no avail,” answered Duncan.

“OK, if you don’t want to sack her, what is the solution, a month in the sanatorium?”

“You jest Renton but that is exactly what we all propose. Not quite a sanatorium but we all agree that she comes and works for you and we believe that you can smooth out her rough edges, for her own good.”

“Duncan, this is not just your way of getting me to fire her, is it?”

“Definitely not, but you’ve said yourself that she if fine and dandy in your presence.”

“But what about you Biggles, isn’t she going to disrupt your staff the same as she has done to Duncan’s?”

“I’ve talked it over with them and they agree to take her on despite her foibles. They reckon you will allow them to give as much as they take from her. Duncan’s staff were too cagey, since she was your partner. Klyne is going to be your assistant from now on.”

“But what about Olivia? She’s not going to take this lying down!”

“She’s agreed and I’ve given her a special project to get the Letting side of the office on a business footing. We need to branch out in that direction Renton.”

“OK, you guys have side swiped me again. When does she start?”

“I’ll speak to her tomorrow so don’t say anything other than you have a surprise for her. I’ll tell her she needs more exposure to clients and selling, which she will get with you and she can start her training with you on Monday.”

“This sounds more like I’m running a Swiss finishing school!”

“There’s truth in that,” said Amanda looking most relieved, “She needs some, or lots of your charm to rub off onto her, permanently.”

“But I thought she was working on a special collection for you Amanda?”

“She is but that can wait. What you are going to do is more important for our future.”

“OK, let’s close on that subject and let me get my head around it. OK guys, since we are cherry picking the agenda, I’ll choose something more trivial to deal with. Partridge, what personal problems have you got in your department that you would like to share with us?”

“Thank you Renton for that vote of confidence. I can happily report that my staff are all well and busy with their noses to the grindstone. There is no point in going through the accounts, they are all there before you and you will agree that we are in a very healthy financial position.”

“Get on with it Partridge! You are touting for another cub badge to sew onto your pyjamas?”

“Please Renton, don’t divulge our little secrets. I want an agreement from you all on a proposal that I have been working on. Our friendly developer who has been so good to us in the past wants to sell out to us. He wants to retire on the proceeds to his own island in the Bahamas. By that, I mean he is asking a huge price. He’s got some work in progress and a substantial bank of solid options on development land and property, which is of more interest to us. He has calculated the total value of his assets when fully developed and is asking that price, with a twenty percent discount for a quick sale.”

“Have we checked out the real value Partridge?” 

“Of course Renton! Both Stasiek and Duncan have had a look and we reckon with our Midas touch and your incredible sales skills we can double that.”

“What’s the catch?”

“The cost would mean a massive exposure for us. In simple terms Renton, we couldn’t honour your family debt for another five years at the worst.”

“OK, let’s dump the idea and move on.”

“Hang on Renton, this is too good an opportunity to miss. If we went to market we could realise the sum required but lose a lot of our freedom and anonymity. Your friend Sir Whatsits Lancaster has been pestering me for him to invest in our outfit so I’m suggesting we create another Division under Renton Holdings with his money. He’ll probably want forty percent equity which is OK and our current Divisions will sell in our expertise at a hefty commission. No real risk to us since Lancaster also wants to bequeath us with his own development options. I say we strike whilst the iron is hot.”

“All agreed? Good work Partridge, you’ve earned the Lego building badge. Now let’s get into the horsy business with you Harry. Any brooding mares in trouble on your patch?”

“Sorry to disappoint all but if I have any problems in that direction, I now know to call in Renton!” answered Harry which elicited a few guffaws. “Everything is on target and I even move into my new house next month. Stasiek’s Polish workers never seem to stop and more seems to get done than planned. We do have two problems of our own making. Something we probably overlooked in the initial planning stages.  One is our younger clients are finding our hotel too plush and probably too expensive for their needs.”

“But didn’t we have a deal with the local pubs and B&B’s Harry?”

“We did Renton, but they are getting fully booked and still rather pricy. What we have come up with is a bunk house approach, similar to that for the workers and that seems to suit our young clientele. We need to build some more permanent facilities for the future, when the majority of workers leave. Also, we need to make more accommodation provision for our stable lads on the same tack.  I’ve asked Stasiek to cost and draw up some plans.”

“And the second problem?”

“It’s linked, in that we haven’t made enough provision for feeding all of our people. We have a canteen for the stable staff, a canteen for the workers but our young clientele is not really catered for as they wish. The restaurant is too posh for them and the café that Amanda has set up is too gentile. I tried a catering van but that didn’t go down well either.”

“I presume that with the smile on your face you have a solution Harry?”

“I’m not smiling for that Renton, it’s just that the solution has been staring us in the face for a while now and it’s the simplest of solutions. Our catering accounts for the workers have been looking odd lately and it’s not that they are down on the takings but the reverse. It seems that our stable lads and the clientele have been nipping in to the workers canteen marquee and enjoying their Eastern European grub. They also enjoy being chatted up by the Polish workers who look after them royally.”

“I nip in there for their stuffed cabbage and their pierogi. Not as good as Jadja’s but tasty nevertheless. So you have a solution. Close the stable lads place then?”

“Not so simple Renton. Stasiek has come up with a permanent marquee styled pavilion which can be put up within days, once the groundwork has been done. This will be bigger but still have the same simple basic atmosphere of the workers canteen. The Chef has agreed to extend the menu to appease the fish’n’chips and All-Day English Breakfast brigade. We can also use the pavilion for special events. Stasiek just needs approval for the funding.”

“OK, but the workers and our other staff get a subsidy on food. Are you suggesting we do the same for outsiders?”

“We’ve worked that one out Renton,” interjected Partridge smugly. “We issue plastic cards and the outsiders get charged the posted tariff, the staff get twenty percent off and Stasiek’s construction workers get their food free, up to a certain limit. That will satisfy all and we get rid of some of the ungainly temporary buildings. The other thing that Harry has failed to mention is that he has been asked to cater for weddings and events. We have drawn up a tariff for various packages. Seem the sausage and stewed cabbage are coming back into vogue.”

“Thanks Partridge. Anything else Harry before we move on?”

“Just that the excavation at the old quarry for the clay pigeon shoot and gun trial range are going a pace. What Amanda has failed to mention is that we are getting lots of enquiries from her clothing website for our equestrian facilities and especially for the clay pigeon events and for gun equipment. We will have to expand our range there.”

“Is this in the report Amanda?”

“It’s not in hers but I’ve included it in mine, singing her praises if she won’t do that herself.”

“I suggest we close this meeting and adjourn to the restaurant where we can continue with the rest of the agenda. I’ve invited Norman Elliot the developer to join us later so you can question him more closely. Just ensure you give him the impression that we are interested but still pondering over the price. Now, somebody just assure me that no one has invited Klyne?”

“No worries Renton but she’s yours totally from Monday. The surgeon has been booked to perform the hip joining operation!”

“Thanks guys, I love you all too!” 

Chapter 48

I walked into my office next morning to find Olivia sitting at my desk with a broad grin on her face as she pointedly did up a button on her sparkling white blouse.

“You got rid of me at last Renton.”

“Not for long I hope Olivia.”

“You will have to count me out of the future and start looking for another skivy when Klyne goes back to Duncan.”

“Sounds as if you’re abandoning me. I’m not that bad a boss, am I?”

“Renton, you’re wonderful but I’m going to make this Letting thing into a new big career for me. Nigel thinks I’m right for the job since I’ve spent all my life moving from one rental to another. You know those two old Victorian houses which we converted to luxury bed sits for people commuting to London, to use during the week? Nigel wants us to find some more, to extend that side of the business. We get seven substantial rents a month coming from each house and the demand is never ending. Apart from attracting new business, I want to branch out into holiday lets in London. Into luxury serviced apartments where we can charge the same for a week as we get a month for the long lets.”

“You sound as if you have thought it all through Olivia?”

“I have and Nigel has helped me write up a business plan for Partinger to approve for the finance we will need.”

“By the way, why is it suddenly Nigel and Partinger? What’s happened to Biggles and Partridge of old?”

“Amanda says we are a growing Company and cannot afford to call people by nicknames.”

“Well Amanda can stew. It’s Partridge and Biggles when you talk to me and don’t you dare come out with Mr. Renton, do you hear?”

“Loud and clear Renton. Is it true that Amanda and Nigel, sorry I mean Biggles are seeing each other? I mean more than just socially.”

“I think you could be right Olivia.”

“Well, I never. Last person that Amanda would fall for, in my book, not that Biggles is not a good catch. I thought she was more into your type Renton.”

“My type is overrated it seems Olivia, now could I get to my desk please I have some work to prepare and I’m running late.”

“Sorry Renton but we moved you into the bigger office so that you can keep an eye on Klyne. There’s ample room for two desks there. This is ‘MY’ new office now Renton."

“Oh! I wish people would consult with me further before changing my life. Now tell me the truth Olivia. How are the rest of the staff taking this news about Klyne?”

“With a good bout of trepidation because she caused a real rumpus in Duncan’s office; some of them were even going to quit here. But Biggles has worked out a brilliant strategy. Every time she says something or does something good or bad, they are going to hold up score cards, as they do in ice skating. You know, you’ve seen them on tele. It’s a bit of a joke but means they don’t have to put up with any of her nonsense.”

“Oh, I didn’t realise that she was so bad.”

“Why should you, she probably thinks the sun shines out of your every orifice, just as the rest of us believe. You will need to tutor her and be firm, like you were with me. I thought, you would be an easy walk over when I first came to see you. I had a bet of a hundred quid with Yolanda that I’d have you shagged by the time the day was out. She upped it to five hundred. Klyne will learn from you how to deal with people, to get the best out of them. How did she take it when you told her last night?”

“Oh, I chickened out. I deliberately stayed out late and she was asleep when I got back.”

“Asleep? I don’t believe it? What a waste of a good night of passion. I’d have been up waiting for you patiently, even to the early ours of the morning darling.” she shouted excitedly.

“It seems I have this affect on girls these days.”

“I don’t believe that either! Now if you happen to give Klyne the big ‘E’ one day make sure you put me at the top of the list for first refusal. Wait till I tell the girls!”

“I didn’t think you took part in office gossip Olivia?”

“What! That’s half the reason to come to work, I’ll have you know. Ninety nine percent of it is about you and you’ve just come up with a corker. Now be off with you, I have work to do.”

I arrived at Klyne’s guest apartment just before dinner. It was no longer my ‘service staff flat’ that I had the use of. Klyne was waiting for me looking smug and sprightly. “Just heard the good news darling,” as she rushed up and gave me a hug and kiss. “You should have told me last night darling. Why didn’t you wake me up?”

“Didn’t want to spoil your beauty sleep. I also wanted Duncan to impart that information since he’s your direct boss.”

“Yeah, but you must have known last night. You could have just sneaked me a bit of advanced info.”

“What did Duncan actually tell you?”

“It was Duncan and Alice actually darling. They told me it was for my own good to have a month or so with you. They said I would learn a lot from you. I can’t see what though but it’s good to get out of that office. They are not very friendly lot there.”

“I’m not surprised Klyne from what I have heard. You are not the most favourite person on my list at this moment in time.”

“Why is that darling? I can’t imagine why? What have I done wrong then? Please tell me.”

“I was shocked yesterday at the meeting to find that you have been upsetting the staff in your office, big time.”

“They are a weird bunch and I don’t care!”

“That’s where you are wrong Klyne, you should care. You won’t get anywhere in your career if you rub up the people the wrong way. Your talent will be completely wasted. Lesson numero uno, if you make people like you then they will pull out all stops to help you. At this moment in time, Duncan’s staff want to stab you in the back and are only too glad to get rid of you.”

“That’s not a nice thing to say, darling.”

“Listen Klyne, you were a knat’s whisker of being sacked and sent packing back to Liverpool. It was just their silly feelings for me that you weren’t.”

“Amanda wouldn’t have got rid of me Renton!”

“I wouldn’t believe that Klyne if I were you. As a last resort, she came up with the idea of you working directly with me and I’m supposed to impart some good manners and people skills onto you. I believe that Duncan or Alice have spoken to you about your manner before on this matter.”

“Yeah, but it was just because I was new in the office.”

“Sounds as if you didn’t take any notice. You’ll have to curb your Latin temperament Klyne and do it quick. Now tell me who else you have pissed off lately?”

“Well, I do have a confession to make. Millie’s not very happy with me.”

“I’ve noticed the change in temperature there. What the hell have you done to upset her then?”

“Well darling, when I was supposed to be sleeping in the spare room when mumsy was here, she didn’t change the sheets for me daily and I told her.”

“Gawd, save me from fools! Poor Millie was working her poor socks off at that time and you expected her to do that when you weren’t even using the bed?”

“Well, she was paid to do it and I expected her to do it as part of her duties.”

“I hope she called you a spoilt silly bitch!”

“No, but she visibly cooled towards me and mumsy after that.”

“I’m not surprised. Have you anything else you’d like to impart Klyne?”

“Sorry darling but I think I have upset Elizabeth too.”

“How could you do that? Tell me.” 

“I was trying to please Millie and I told Elizabeth that Millie’s cooking is more flavoursome than hers. I know it was thoughtless darling but I didn’t expect Elizabeth to take it so badly.”

“Christ! People have been sent to the gallows for less. I hope you have apologised to them both Klyne?”

“Well not yet Darling. Don’t be so cross with me. You’ll make me cry!”

“This whole episode makes me cry Klyne. How the hell can you do such things? This puts me in a most difficult position with the Partingers.”

“What shall we do darling?”

“It’s not ‘we’ it’s you Klyne. They all will have heard by now, on the grapevine, that you have been duly admonished and instructed to change your ways at the office. I’m going out to order two bouquets of flowers, one for Millie and one for Elizabeth. When I get back, we will call in Millie and you will apologise to her profusely. I want you to grovel and make friends with her again. And tell her that if you utter a wrong word to her again she has to hold up a ‘Yellow’ card that I will give her. You then have to get to your knees and apologise. Do you agree Klyne?”

“Yes, but getting to ones knees is a bit much darling.”

“That’s the whole bloody point of it Klyne! A bit of humiliation; it will do you good and the best way of learning is by acknowledging your mistakes. Now, you will do the same to Elizabeth and this time ask her to treat you as a mother with a naughty child so that she to can freely chastise you, if you put your foot wrong again. Yes, it’s going to be humiliating and I will have to do the same because I’m responsible, having brought you into this household; now get dressed for dinner and I’ll be back shortly with the flowers. We’ll call Millie in as soon as I get back. Just rehearse what you have to say to both of them and it better sound good, convincing and more importantly, genuine. You’re on final notice here Klyne so pull yourself together. Don’t forget that everybody is rooting for a good outcome to this.”

The outcome was better than expected. Klyne put on a brave performance including genuine tears of approbation. I handed Millie the yellow card and told her to use it as a hardened referee for the slightest misdemeanour on Klyne’s part. I had to part the crying couple since we were ready for dinner. Klyne went through the same performance with Elizabeth who was a bit more formal and showed more displeasure with her guest which was good for Klyne’s lesson in manners. Throughout dinner Klyne behaved as if she was thoroughly chastised, though she usually behaved impeccably in my presence. I blamed myself for this whole problem in that I should have spotted it and dealt with it much earlier, before it affected my close friends. I would have to watch her carefully from now on and ensure that she didn’t spoil any of my business.

 I was concerned that we were overstretching our empire and the investments were impacting on my ability to generate enough funds to be able to pay off the family debt, when the day of reckoning came. Partridge, bless his soul tried all ways to convince me that everything was fine but I had to go to get confirmation from his father before I could relax. It appeared that the initial investors were quite happy or even very happy to maintain their investments with us even though we had reduced the dividends hoping for some withdrawals but the word had got out that Sir Trevor Lancaster, as he was always referred to, was wanting to invest and where he tread the flocks would follow.

Chapter 48

“Morning Renton darling! I have a favour to ask.”

“Hi Amanda, what do you need, not my body again?”

“I wish, no it’s just that Lorraine is back from China this weekend with samples of Klyne’s designs. I need you and Klyne on Monday in Oxford to put on a sort of informal fashion show for our design team so we can have a critical look at the first samples.”

“Fine but why do you need me?”

“To police Klyne silly.”

“Look Amanda, I have a busy day with important appointments on Monday and you haven’t given me enough warning to alter them. I’ll send Klyne. Let her off the leash so to speak.”

“How has she been with you?”

“Good as gold Amanda but she’s never been different in my presence. My clients like her and she’s good for the business. Not quite as outrageous as Olivia but efficient in a muted way.”

“You did speak to her sternly though, didn’t you?”

“Yes, I did and I have a bone to pick with you Amanda. You knew that she had upset Millie and Elizabeth something rotten and apart from a vague reference you didn’t tell me straight away. I was mortified and made her apologise to both that night.”

“Sorry darling but I knew it was on the agenda for the meeting next day. Has it cleared the air?”

“I think so and hope so. Millie has a yellow card to show and Elizabeth is to treat her as a belligerent teenage daughter so if she does go off the rails, that way, Klyne will get to know immediately of her wrong doing.”

“Good work Renton but if she goes off the tracks at the show, can I phone you so you can have a word with her?”

“Yes darling but I will warn her before. She knows she is on a final warning. Shall I tell her of the Monday thing or would you rather do it Amanda?”

“No, you do it darling and warn her, also I will invite Nigel to the show?”

“What do you need Biggles there for?”

“It’s not Nigel I need but I want his daughter Rosalind to model for me. I’ve bought a minute Shetland pony for the occasion and I think Nigel should be there to look after his daughter’s well being, that’s all.”

“You sly bugger Amanda, it’s your well being you’re after.”  

“That may be but I’ll be playing a trump hand with Rosalind and her pony. They’ll steal the show for me.”

“Brilliant move Amanda but how are you going to cope with the droppings and things?”

“I’ve invited some of the stable lads and girls to take part and get their ideas. They will bring a bucket and mop, I hope. The other thing we are doing and don’t tell Klyne, it’s a surprise, is that we are going to launch her brand as ‘Frasier Klyne.’ Has a nice ring to it don’t you think?”

“That’s very kind of you and thoughtful but what if she decides to leave suddenly?”

“We have it registered as a Trade Mark and we’ll draw up some contracts if all goes well. Apart from riding wear and leisure wear, I want us to branch out into cosmetics and perfume.”

“Do you think a perfume smelling of horse shit will be a winner?”

“Don’t be silly Renton.”

“Tell me what do you do with the mountains of horse shit that must accumulate at the stables?”

“Tell me about it. I didn’t know a horse could produce so much of the stuff. Harry has found an ingenious solution for it. You know we were going to have to spend loads of dosh on updating the sewage system to cope with the extra people. Well Harry has installed some great bins, digesters he calls them. These bins get loaded up with horse muck, all organic waste from the kitchens, topped up with human waste from the cess-pit and the whole thing is heated and churned up for six weeks. It produces methane gas which we use for heating water for the whole complex, the water is cleaned and used for the gardens and the solid is dried and forms a good compost which again goes on the gardens and fields as a soil conditioner.”

“You sound like a professional gardener Amanda.”

“Well, it’s saved us a bomb and at least we are doing something good for the environment.”

 “Good on you!”

“Be a darling and make sure you come to the evening do or earlier if you get the SOS.”

“I’ll be there after my last client. It will give me an opportunity to take one of the office girls out with me. There might be one that will do the job admirably when Klyne goes.”

“You men are awful and I include Biggles in this. Why is it you recruit and surround yourselves by glamour pusses with no brains. You lot are only ruled by one thing!”

“Slow down Amanda. Our staff would take umbrage at you calling them dumb blonds. Biggles recruited all the staff and he also has an eye for beauty if you didn’t know. Secondly, we have to impress our male clients just as the airlines recruit smart girls, same for you in your business. I bet you will pick some pretty girls as staff. Helps the business and if they are smart, it’s a bonus.”

“End of lesson Renton, now go and tell Klyne the good news about Monday. Bye.”

“Klyne, I’ve just been talking to Amanda and she tells me that Lorraine will be back with your first load of sample.”

“Great, I didn’t expect her for another couple of weeks. I can’t wait to see some of the finished products.”

“Amanda wants to put on a sort of fashion show for our design staff to show off your designs.”

“When is that darling?”

“Monday and she’s asked if I could dispense with your services on that day.”

“But we have some important clients that day. We can’t put them off. Can Amanda delay the showing instead?”

“I think she is as keen as you to see the finished articles. I’ll get one of the office staff to accompany me.”

“Darling, you are wonderful!” she exclaimed, jumping forward, embracing me and giving me an amorous kiss. “I promise to be on my best behaviour darling and I’ll also try and mend some bridges. Please trust me darling.”

“I have no option but trust you Klyne. In my company you have not put a foot wrong all week. I’m not sure what you have learned from me but if you go along as you’ve done so far, I think Duncan and Amanda will be pleased.”

“What you have done darling is shown me the errors of my way. I only cared for myself and I thought that in the design arena, where ‘dog eats dog,’ I would have to be tough and aggressive. I’ve seen another side which is probably easier and nicer to live with. That’s the lesson I’ve learned and it’s been so much fun working with you. Your clients seem to be your best friends. I’m constantly being asked to pop in for a cup of tea or drop in for a chat when I’m passing. Do you ever do that darling, actually visit these people on a social basis?”

“Not as much as I would like but most of the people we deal with are quite wealthy and influential in their own field. You have to be, to afford a London pad at our prices. Don’t forget they can be most useful as contacts for future business or just for social reasons. That’s how I got tickets to the opera for Amanda.”

“You are a darling! I do hope the Nigel and Amanda thing works out. He’s such a gentleman. I’d love to see his children sometime.”

“You will Klyne. Rosalind, Biggles’ daughter is modelling for you with her Shetland pony.”

“Wonderful. This is going to be great. Just think Renton darling, my first solo fashion show.”

“Now just be careful Klyne. This is an internal event and these people have the tendency to rip you apart since it’s their reputation on the line. You may be the designer but they are the back up team so be prepared to take a lot of criticism, field it nicely and if necessary find a compromise at this stage. When you are famous then you can act the bitch.”

“Oh, so they may not like my work just for spite?”

“Grow up Klyne. These guys are professionals and been doing this for years. Be prepared to bow down to their superior knowledge and learn. That’s not to say that you cannot defend your position. They will expect that but don’t break down and go into a huff. Just find a diplomatic way of getting around the problem. Problems can be opportunities if handles sensitively. I will no doubt get a running commentary from either Duncan or Amanda on how you’re doing so make sure they don’t have to call in the cavalry to run you off the premises.”

“They wouldn’t do that would they darling?”

“Don’t push it Klyne. As you said earlier, this is a competitive business with plenty falling by the wayside. Now go and prepare that stuff for me for Monday and I’ll go and see Biggles for a replacement.”

“Can I ring Amanda first, I’m so excited I could scream.”

“Well close the door first,” I answered and left her jumping for joy.  

I didn’t see Klyne all weekend until Sunday night. She was ensconced with Lorraine and Amanda at the equestrian centre, planning the fashion event. I took the opportunity to take Biggles and Partridge to Twickers where we met some friends and one thing led to another and we spent all of Saturday night and Sunday morning on the town, enjoying a lad’s night out.

“What are the kids doing this weekend Biggles. I was surprised that you got a pass.”

“Amanda has taken them to the riding centre for the day and I’ll have to conjure up something for them to do for tomorrow. She’s quite a girl.”

“Told me she loved the opera you took her to, opened a new chapter in her experience.”

“She’s certainly been a tonic for me. Before, I had one round of work, kids, their school and nannies to contend with.”

“I hope you have asked her out again then Biggles?”

“I certainly have and to my amazement she has accepted.”

“Atta boy Biggles, you haven’t lost your pulling power then?”

“She’s not doing this because she feels sorry for me, is she?”

“I wouldn’t think so knowing Amanda, strong personality that girl and a mind of her own. I actually believe that she is looking for a stable relationship rather than flitting about as she has been.”

“You’ve been there Renton, haven’t you?”

“Yea, and quite recently but she’s much older than me. More suited to someone like you Biggles not an immature student type like me.”

“I would like to think so Renton. I couldn’t bear a life on my own. I wonder what the kids are up to?”

“Give her a call or would you like me to do it since you might look too eager.” Having posed some leading questions and got the expected nod I pulled out my mobile. “Hi Amanda, how’s the preparations going?”

“Busy, busy, busy. Where are you?”

“On the way to Twickers with Partridge and Biggles to watch a match and drink a few beers.”

“Has Nigel told you I have Rosalind and Alex here with me.”

“Yea, he said he’d managed a pass out. Are the kids helping you?”

“No silly, a couple of the girls have taken them on and they are probably exercising a string of horses at this moment.”

“You haven’t let them ride on their own?”

“No silly, they sit on the front of the saddle. I saw them last at lunch time and they were in the canteen tucking into your favourite stuffed cabbage and beetroot soup. Tell Nigel they will be staying over with me tonight and I’ll look after them here tomorrow. Too much to do.”

“You can tell him yourself. Biggles!” I shouted holding out the mobile to him. “Amanda wants a word. The kids have been eaten by the horses.” A cry of ‘I heard that Renton’ came audibly from the phone. I left them talking as Partridge and I walked ahead from the station on towards the ground.

I was on my first house visit of the day with Gail, my new assistant. We had driven the buyers, a couple of Iranians on a buying mission, there in the Roller via a coffee stop at the Ritz when my mobile rang. “Yes Duncan, you want me for the mercy mission?”

“Far from it Renton. Just to tell you, that Kyle has eaten humble pie and apologised profusely for her bad behaviour to the whole assembly would you believe? This was part of her introduction and she said she was going to turn over a new leaf and asked if they would they all give her a second chance? She added it was all down to your tutoring.”

“Great news Duncan but I’m busy, bye. Sorry about that guys but a colleague has just rang to tell me some good news about a Klyne who you have met before but couldn’t be here today.” Smiles all around, especially from Gail who also gave me a thumbs up sign. The visit went well and after viewing two plush apartments, we managed to persuade them to buy both, fully furnished, on the basis that one could be let out by our associated Letting Agent. The advantage to them would be allowing them to have a steady flow of Stirling into their account in London which they would have easy access to without the problems of fluctuating exchange rates. We took them back to their hotel for lunch and I promised to have the papers sent over that afternoon when the phone rang again. 

“Yes Duncan, what is it this time?”

“It’s Amanda, just to let you know that Klyne is holding her own with the onslaught she is getting from her critics. Tell Nigel that Rosalind was a wow on her pony.”

“Please call him yourself but he was supposed to be there with you?”

“Yes, but a super salesman kyboshed that and he’s been called back to the office to prepare some sales papers. Bye Renton.”

“Sorry guys again but another call from the lady running our equestrian establishment to say the show is going well.”

“Glad to hear it Mr. Renton. Is this equestrian place part of your holding may I ask?” asked the major player.”

“We have just opened a full riding and livery establishment with a covered arena, just on the way out to Oxford. Only riding not racing horses. You should have a look at the place on the way to your hotel out in Oxford.”

“We would like to very much Mr. Renton. My family own a string of racehorses and also some for riding. It would be nice if the family could do some riding through the English countryside when they are here; would keep them away from the shops.”

“Let me know and I can arrange a visit for you. James could even take you in the Rolls.”

“That’s very kind of you Mr. Renton but we do have our own stable of cars over here. I would also be interested if we could sell you some of our horse for the stables. We would like to break into the English market and could offer you a good deal.”

“I’m sure our Director would be very interested and I will give him your card. We shall now leave you in peace to ponder over our deal.”

“Nothing to ponder over Mr. Renton, it’s been good doing business with you. You and your beautiful assistant must come over and visit us in Dubai for social purposes. We can show off our own beautiful Country.”

“That’s very kind of you. We shall be off now.” After the customary shaking of hands we departed and Gail did a jig in the lift.

“You fancy one of those rich Sheiks then Gail?” 

“Not half Renton?”

“Well, you could end up being wife forty seven on the list.”

“If you put it that way I’ll think about it. Is this the normal way you do the business Renton; Rolls, Ritz and glamour?”

“You provide the glamour Gail I just did the easy bits. You were just great, made them at their ease and answered all questions professionally and with confidence.”

“Can I have the job then, when Klyne moves back then?”

“Well, we’ll have to see about that. I may have to road test some of the other office fillies before I decide.”

“Renton, can we take turns doing this. I mean the office girls. I did all the donkey work on this case but never actually expected to meet the clients. This has been an eye opener for me and I now know why you are so particular about the detail. If you could work it that we came out with you when we research that client then it would all make better sense to us and give us a taste of glamour and style for a change. We always talk about how you work with your clients and that they rarely fail to buy. It’s wonderful to see the real action.”

“Well Gail, you certainly have given me food for thought. Look I’ll promise to talk to Biggles about it and see what he thinks about the whole thing but the idea is sound. Now we have to go through the whole boring process again Gail with some new clients this afternoon and we have to sell them a penthouse which is a bit over their budget, or so they think.”

“Far from boring Renton and while you are talking to Nigel, please ask him for some more staff. It’s only a rumour that we gossip and paint our fingernails all day you know. James is waiting for us, he just beeped me.”

“Come on before we change the whole World Gail.”

 

 That afternoon, we made another sale to an Irish couple, who fell in love with one of our larger properties with a little persuasion, though we had to promise that we would join them at Cheltenham races for the next season. James brought up a bottle of special Irish whisky that we researched was their tipple, which was probably a mistake because by half bottle, they wanted us both to move in with them immediately in their Kerry castle, built by some English lord during the troubles. We poured the couple into the Rolls and James ferried them back to their hotel whilst I gave Gail a choice.

 “OK lass, you have the option of going back to the office and ensuring the paperwork gets there to these people by evening when they will be too pissed to read it or you can come with me to the tail end of a fashion show at our equestrian centre? What is it to be?”

“Do I have to think about it Renton?”

“Please yourself, but you’d better come with me because I haven’t a bent farthing to pay off my cab.”

“OK Renton it’s a done deal, I pay for the cab but you have to promise that I can cuddle into you during the journey.” 

“How can I refuse Gail,” and with that Gail called a minicab to take us out to the Oxfordshire countryside. The first thing we spotted on the grassy area at the entrance was a tiny Shetland pony grazing with one of the stable lads as a minder. We crept into the main conference area and found the whole procedure still in progress. One of the staff found us some chairs at the back and we watched as Klyne was trying to point out the significant design features on a pair of ladies riding breeches and being attacked by a mob who thought the design wasn’t way out enough.

“OK guys!” shouted Amanda and getting little response put two fingers in her mouth and let rip a screeching whistle. That suddenly brought people to attention. “Right folks, let’s take a break. The food has arrived so dive in and we’ll continue this later. There’s plenty for everyone and a variety of drinks so don’t rush and ensure that our guest get a fair share.” With the announcement of food, everybody downed tools and made way to the outer room in what could only be termed a stampede. The discussions must have made them extremely hungry. Amanda noticed us and brought Klyne, Lorraine and Duncan over. “Hello you two, had a good day?”

“So, so, Gail only managed to sell three properties today and only got one proposal of marriage from a rich Sheik, an invitation to Cheltenham races and a year’s residence in a castle in Kerry.”

“Don’t forget the string of racehorses you had to buy for Amanda.”

“That’s right, a bunch of old nags unfit for dog meat. Now what has been going on here?”

“You’ve missed a treat Renton. The show was magnificent.”

“Didn’t sound like it when we came in. More like open warfare. Who’s on the winning side?”

“Constructive criticism we call it Renton,” answered Klyne clinging possessively to my arm.

“Sound to me you need a ringmaster to control the crowds. Where’s Rosalind? Has she gone home?”

“She’s next door playing computer games with one of the stable lads,” answered Duncan, “she was a peach, brought the house down.”

“Lorraine, did you get an outfit made for her in China?”

“No, a seamstress knocked one up for her today. She looked so cute on the Shetland. We’ll have to use her on our advertising,” said Lorraine with lots of enthusiasm. 

“Oh, you missed the big news Renton.”

“What’s that Klyne? You’ve behaved yourself?”

“No, apart from that Amanda is going to launch a special brand name for my range. It’s going to be called ‘Frasier Klyne’. What do you think of that?”

“But your name is Caroline Frasier.”

“Yes, darling but doesn’t it sound more up beat as ‘Frasier Klyne’?”

“That’s good folks, let’s go and get a glass of wine and drink to that. Gail, lead the way, I’m thirsty. The Iranians were strict Muslims and the Irish only knew whisky. Give me a good claret any day.”

After the break Amanda announced that Renton, our CEO was here and that I would be the Master of Ceremonies for the rest of the evening and I was dragged up to the stage area and had to administer some sense into the proceedings. Each item of clothing was displayed and the pundits had a go at it whilst Amanda, Lorraine and Klyne defended the article. I soon realised that many of the people were airing their views just to be heard and I stepped in and cut short some of the more voluble ones. I allowed few minutes of discussion on each article and then took a vote if it should go ahead or be put aside for further development. We got through the rest of the programme in quick time and allowed time for Duncan to read out the credits which included gratitude to me for straightening out Klyne.

 Amanda excused herself early, with the valid excuse that she had to take Rosalind home, back to her dad, although I suspected other motives were driving that decision. Everybody had left, leaving Klyne, Gail, Lorraine, Duncan and Alice to wring the last fat out of the proceedings and clear up. “I don’t know what you guys want to do now but I propose that we go to my favourite restaurant back in town and celebrate the glorious outcomes of today. I don’t want any back sliders. Gail, make sure we have enough car space for all and phone Reggie to tell him we are coming and make up the usual order. Right everyone, get your things and let’s get moving.” The meal and chit chat was magnificent. In the cab, back to Mayfair, Klyne clung to me like a limpet, pleased with herself beyond belief. I was waiting for her to ask me to release her from her duties with me and allow her back into the Design Department but she had other things on her mind for me back at ‘her’ Mayfair apartment.     

“Hi Amanda, you missed a good night out.”

“What are you doing ringing me Renton? It’s me that rings you. Curious are you or just plain nosey?” 

“I do care about your welfare Amanda, but I just called to congratulate you on the success of your show yesterday. You weren’t about later for me to do that.”

“I had to take Rosalind home but guess what? Nigel invited me to stay for dinner and pudding later. Stayed all night I did.”

“You naughty girl, you should be ashamed of yourself taking advantage of a poor fellow like that. I hope you enjoyed it.”

“Don’t be sarcy Renton. Yes, I did enjoy it and do you know what? He nearly proposed to me. Well at least the drift of his conversation led that way and he is trying to put that idea into my head.”

“Great, that’s what you wanted wasn’t it?”

“Yes, but I have a lot of baggage with me and I’m not sure I should disclose it all or any of it. What do you think Renton? You’ve heard some of it and it’s not something one can be proud of is it?”

“Amanda, that was the way you were brought up, the culture of the East End and you made the most of it. You took the opportunities as they presented themselves and if that doesn’t come up to the public’s point of view, that hardly matters, does it? I would tell him in snippets as you told me and make sure I hear the rest though.”

“But what about my inability to read and write? I can’t tell him that can I? He’d think me stupid, wouldn’t he?”

“Nobody would call you stupid Amanda and you shouldn’t be ashamed. Since you didn’t go to school at all it seems then it’s quite remarkable how you’ve done so well in life. I would tell him and the kids and that you could all learn together. Bit novel but that’s life I guess.”

“OK, but you don’t think it will put him off, will it?”

“I doubt it Amanda. He talked about you last Saturday on our way to the rugby.”

“What did he say, tell me!”

“He said he was very fond of you and would like a stable relationship but thought you might want a more glamorous lifestyle.”

“And what did you say?”

“I said that was not the case and that you were also looking for something more permanent and though him to be the perfect candidate.”

“And? Go on Renton, what did he say?”

“I think he just said ‘Oh!’ and remained silent for a while.”

“Didn’t you prompt him then?”

“Yeh, I said you were a good shag, a lovely body and things like that.”

“Renton, you didn’t! Now tell me the truth and don’t joke. This is serious.”

“No, I just told him to go for it and he’s unlikely to get a rejection.”

“I love you Renton, that’s brilliant.”

“Not that brilliant since he didn’t do the honourable thing on Monday.”

“No, that was my fault. I changed the subject. I was afraid that if he found out all those things about me he might lose interest.”

“Well bloody tell him all those things, splurt it all out and don’t forget to tell him that you love him madly.”

“That’s the problem Renton, I don’t know if I do love him madly as you say. I’ve never been in love have you?”

“I can’t say I have. I’ve fancied girls to death and have had boyhood crushes but to be headlong in love, no I haven’t Amanda.”

“Have you told any of your girls you’ve loved them?”

“Not in the romantic way like I was going to live with them forever and never wanted to part.”

“What did you feel when Suzy, Yolanda or Lorraine left you?”

“Gutted initially. It hurt my pride I suppose and also thought I would miss them in a glamorous sort of way. I didn’t think somebody else as nice would turn up.”

“Codswallop Renton, they are queuing up to have a go at you and I was there with them.”

“I know, I know Amanda but I’ve never had to chat up a girl to get her and I’m not sure I would know where to start.”

“Well, you’re a lucky lad, that’s what I’ll say. On the subject of love you sound like me. Do you think you’ll grow to love somebody or does it have to be crash, bang, whollop of a thing.”

“I’ve never had that feeling but take Klyne, who was foisted onto me. She’s gorgeous and no living man would kick her out of bed. I had no love for her initially but I’d be damned gutted if she suddenly now decided to leave, even though she caused me some embarrassment with friends. But you have more than just a passing interest in Biggles don’t you. He’s not just a good catch to you?”

“Initially he probably was, because I mentally listed all the prospects I knew. The way you taught me to make decisions Renton and he ticked all the boxes and he was single to boot. You may think me a hard faced bitch but I couldn’t think of any other way. I clearly remembered the way you spoke to me when I dated Partinger and it broke my mould. I did think of his wealth then and maybe make him part with a hefty wedge at some stage.”

“Well, you will have to decide Amanda, I’m no expert on love in that context but if I was a betting man I think you two could make a reasonable go of it.”

“Do you know Renton, us two are alike in our backgrounds given that you had a silver spoon in your mouth and I was born in the gutter. We both have no parents to speak of. Yours ignored you at least for most of your life. Mine made my life a misery, always scrounging things off me. I told you, dad wanted to molest me so I left home. The funny thing is I miss them. Do you miss yours?”

“God no! I was lucky though, I had surrogate parents in the form of House Masters and also parents of friends like Partingers who looked out for me.”

“I suppose so but don’t you feel anything for them at all?”

“Only that they are a nuisance now especially with Gerald stirring things up. No, I look upon them as total strangers you might meet in the street. When was the last time you saw your parents Amanda?”

“Only last week. I regularly get a taxi to cruise past their house and have a look. I don’t want to make contact, God forbid but I think its more out curiosity than a family bond. Dad’s a soak and mother is just a cow. They are both living on benefits I reckon and there’s me here in a penthouse and loads of money in the bank. Do you think I should do something for them Renton?”

“Such as?”   

“Well, buy them a house, furniture TV or something?”

“I don’t know Amanda. Wouldn’t they just spend the extra on booze?”

“No doubt about that but I think I have a soft spot for my mum and like to do something for her. Dad can just stuff himself. He was just a bastard and bully. Now this is just depressing talk Renton. We’ve got off the subject here. Look, you are a brilliant judge of character and I trust you with my life. Just tell me what I should do. You know both of us and if you don’t think I’m good enough for your friend then just tell me to back off, will you.”

“Go for it Amanda. I think you two will be good for each other even though you come from widely different backgrounds and I want first refusal to give you away.”

“Darling, I love you Renton. I was hoping, screaming inside, that you would say that. I’m now all gooey inside.”

“I want to hear of an engagement by the end of the week then. Tell me what size of ring you wear so I can pass it on. Have you any preference, a huge rock or a cluster to make up a knuckleduster?” 

“I’m not bothered darling. I’m just getting weak at the knees at the prospect of it. Do you think we should have a small wedding or large?”

“Sorry, no choice in that Amanda, it will have to be large. Just think of the friends you have made. You don’t want to disappoint any of them.”

“I suppose not. I’m getting quite excited now.”

“When’s your date for the opera?”

“Wednesday night.”

“Right, Wednesday night it is. I’ll have a word with our Biggles. Make sure he has the ring and I’ll have James waiting in the Roller at the interval, failing that at the end to swish you off to a penthouse I shall have ready, all decked out in flowers and rugby balls. Now this is going to be a surprise for you so get your acting mode switched on.”

“I don’t understand, why the interval?”

“Gawd woman, think! If I was going to propose, could I contain myself all the way to the end of the performance with you spewing perfume all over me and exposing the sight of your stocking tops right down from your cleavage?”

“Put like that Renton, you have a point darling, but who is going to set this all up in time?”

“Don’t worry about that, the girls at the office will sort all that out. They will love the opportunity. I just have to make sure that the penthouse I have in mind is ready. I don’t think Biggles would appreciate a bunch of hairy arsed Polish builders camping out with you, do you?”

“You’re a darling Renton, now what am I going do with myself until Wednesday night to keep my mind off the whole thing?”

“Just choose your lingerie carefully and make sure you get plenty of rest. Don’t want to fall asleep on the guy?”

“Bugger off Renton! You can go off people you know? You weren’t supposed to mention that ever! Oh, and another thing, I reckon you owe me a night of passion.”

“How’s that?”

“Well, you should have woken me up, so there!”

“Well, we’ll just have to dream on that one, if all goes to plan on Wednesday. Bye Amanda, I have a client in two minutes and Klyne is rapping on the office window, bye!”

Chapter 49

“Hello Harry, how are you doing, how are the brooding mares?”

“Fine Renton, just waiting for your services, ha, ha. I’m glad you called.”

“I’m calling to warn you that a couple of Iranians will be calling to see you about gee gees.”

“Too late Renton, been and gone. Gail called, so I showed them around the place and they were duly impressed. Sold me a couple of dozen horses to boot.”

“What! That must have cost a bomb Harry.”

“No worries Renton, got a great deal, sale or return, the only on cost to me is the livery, feeding and all that. They will be delivered by Fedex to Stansted in the next fortnight when they have a positioning flight on one of their Seven-four-sevens. Sending down a fleet of horse boxes to pick them up when the time comes.  Good contact Renton, should have no problem disposing of them at a healthy profit and we will use them for hire in the meantime.”

“Sounds good Harry. Glad to be of some use to you. I suppose you’ll now have even more shit to shovel. Amanda said you invested in some sort of digester that turns the stuff into gold.”

“That’s it Renton my boy. Had severe problems with sewage and Stasiek put me onto this new-fangled system. His boys set it up and it works a treat. Ordered another one so that we have a continuous supply of gas and the other by-product is good old fashioned compost. We are going to produce too much of it for the gardeners to use so we will bag it up and sell it as soil improver.”

“But doesn’t it contain human waste?”

“It does my boy and all the waste from the kitchens. We’ll put it through this machine that squirts special light through it to sterilise it, although the manufactures reckon the special bugs that are introduced, eat up all the bad ones. I’m even shipping in the muck from other stables. Doing them a good turn and will expect favours in return when needed.”

“What about all the water that come off.”

“No probs. there either Renton. This was what I was going to call you about. We get a lot of waste water and all that goes into the digester, if it’s unclean. Rainwater from all the roofs, bath water is mixed with the water from the digesters filter and is recycled for watering gardens, fields, pressure washing the stables and flushing loos. Nothing is wasted. Now let me tell you the amazing fact, one of the Polish Chefs from our own kitchen, would you believe it, has more degrees than you can spit, mainly in irrigation and water management. Got him on a three-year contract to look after all water on the place. Bringing his wife over next month and I’ve got him a house in the village. Do you know what he does first thing? The chap goes through all my farm papers and finds we have a licence to use our own underground water so he immediately drills a hole in the field and hey presto we have free water. That’s why I needed to get in touch with you. Have you received a legal letter from the Water Board yet?”

“Not yet Harry, should I?”

“You will, because the next thing our chappie does is turn off the water supply and remove the meter, telling me not to pay any more bills. Next thing, I get this irate letter from the Water people and he tells me to write and tell them that we don’t require their expensive services anymore. Anyway, a man turns up and tells me I have to pay or go to court. I tell him that he can take his bloody meter and stuff it up his place where the sun don’t shine. I got a letter from their Legal Department and we composed a reply, a nice one, where we explained that we control all the runoff and waste water from the estate and recycle it so there shouldn’t even be a charge for natural drainage. This didn’t satisfy them and they phoned saying that they will write to the big honcho at head office which is you.”

“So Harry, what do you want me to do with it?”

“Simple Renton my boy. On company headed note paper write ‘Return to sender, address unknown, no such number, no such zone!’ and sign it Elvis. That should end the matter. They haven’t got a leg to stand on. I can quote at least five local farmers who have disconnected themselves around here. Our water bills were astronomic and the saving is covering all of our capital outlay this year and into paper profits next.”

“That’s novel reply Harry. I’ll tell the staff to look out for that letter. When are you moving in to your new abode?”

“Mrs M wants to move in today, it’s so fabulous but I have to restrain her and get the lads to finish the minor jobs properly. End of the month I reckon. Having a house warming party and all invited, please come and bring Klyne, please. She and Amanda are gorgeous. I’ll be sending you my bill for heart pills Renton. All work stops when they are here. Where do you find them? Then there’s Lorraine and Alice and Jadja. I have to put dark glasses on or they would take me away.”

“You’ve heard about Amanda’s new project with Klyne then?”

“It’s wonderful Renton. I had lunch with them in the Hotel restaurant including Sir Trevor Lancaster, who is going to accept a Lordship. He reckons he might as well collect the attendance allowance there since he’s there so often lobbying. He’s a smart cookie. Gave me some ideas to improve the clay pigeon shoot and told me get a sort of kindergarten going for the kids of young mums who would be flocking here so I’ve ordered another couple of Shetlands, some rabbits, gerbils, hens and I’ll borrow some lambs in the season. One of the stable girls Zosia is going to run it. The kids adore her anyway. I’ll get a horse and low cart so that they can all go off on pick-nicks and adventures around the estate. What do you think Renton.”

“Catching them young is the trick Harry.”

“It’s not just that but it attracts the young mum’s with kids and gives them some relief. Mrs. M says it will be a winner. By the way, do you know what this Trevor chap did at lunch. He gets the waiter to go to the staff canteen to get some pierogi for us. I don’t know how he got to know but a selection arrived for us to enjoy.”

“What was he doing down there I wonder?”

“It appears that his new lady friend is into horses and he was just checking the place out.”

“I hope that’s all. However much I like him Harry, I don’t trust him. He wants a chunk of our business to increase his empire. I’d like to know when he appears again. We need to keep a weather eye on Lord Trevor or what he likes to call himself. He could be up to no good even though he had a go at Gerald.”

“I’ll do that Renton. Sorry to rant on but that architect Stasiek is a gem. Where did you find him?”

“It’s a long story but he’s the guy who seeded all this business.”

“I love it when he comes down. We go and sit in the staff canteen and spread the plans out on the tables. The staff bring us coffee and titbits and we discuss things. Every now and again Stasiek calls over one of the workers and gets him to look at the plan. Within minutes this chap gets a pen, works out a calculation and alters the plan or sketches an alternative suggestion. Most of these guys have degrees in engineering, science and things like that and he calls upon their skills when needed. Sometimes we have a dozen people poring over the plans and arguing to find the best solution. Can you imagine me going down to the local and asking the barman to work out the size of girder I would need for my barn?”

“How do you spend your time these days Harry?”

“Generally, on walkabout, just to see the place ticking over. The majority of the senior staff are Polish and highly educated and they take all the responsibility and make all the decisions. They’re good enough to keep me informed and I ensure that, but apart from consulting with Stasiek and checking on general housekeeping I spend a lot of the time with the workers, sorting out their work visas and work permits. With Stasiek we have set up a money exchange which gives them a better rate in Poland. They pay money to us and their wives collect from a bank in Poland, in local currency.”

“How is your wife coping with all these changes?”

“Renton, you’ve transformed our lives for the better. We thought that we would retire as poor farmers having settled all our debts, sold the farm and moved to some humble cottage, living off a State Pension. She is also enjoying the new life and feeling important again. Apart from her horses, she keeps an eye on the Hotel and ensures they maintain high standards. I know its run by an outside Company but we have to keep an eye on our assets. Got them to sack most of the maids and waitresses and employ the foreign stable lads and lasses for the job, so they do a shift and shift about. They get to earn more money and we get better service.”

“I’ve heard some rumblings from you about the hotel.”

“I’m afraid it’s turned out to be a sort of white elephant. It’s successful, but too successful. Remember we wanted it to support the equestrian side with riders staying there. Well now its booked months ahead, full of posh gentry feeding their faces and complaining about the smell of horse shit.”

“The extensions should put that right Harry.”

“Doubt it Renton. Some silly fool put the plans on show in the lobby plus Jadja’s artistic impressions. Don’t get me wrong, they are superb but we have a waiting list a mile long to stay in those even though we don’t yet have a start date for the building works.”

“Why is that Harry? Surely if they are going to be successful then we should set them as a priority and get some needed revenue?”

“It was my decision Renton. I told young Partinger, the bean counter and Stasiek that we shouldn’t be picking off the low fruit and to concentrate on the matters concerning the equestrian side first, like the matter of the water and the pavilion. We’ve underestimated the parking needs. We didn’t count on the number of horse boxes people would want to leave with us. Had to make up a secure compound for them and even then our security man caught a couple of no goods trying to break in. Would you believe, they slipped a young kid through the bars in the gates, to turn off the security cameras but they didn’t count on the sensors at the entrance; caught the whole thing on CCTV for the police. I’m afraid my lads duffed them up a bit and the police impounded their Land Rover. No tax, no insurance or MOT would you believe it. They took the kid back to its mum at the encampment on some common land nearby and gave them a couple of hours to move on.”

“I didn’t realise you had security on site?”

“Have to young man. Just think of the assets there are to walk off with. Three full time men with twenty-four-hour coverage for the moment. They keep an eye on the bunkhouses at night and the girls appreciate that. We’ve had to appoint a local nurse to act as matron for minor ailments and to look after the girls. They get a bit homesick you know.”

“You’re a bit out of the village and pub Harry, what do they do for entertainment?”

“Can’t have them getting bored Renton. They’ll be up to all kind of mischief those young’uns, I know, I was one at one time. Got myself an entertainments committee, made up of workers, stable lads and other staff. Apart from table tennis and pool in the main canteen they organise football, nightly disco, karaoke and folk dancing. You should come and see the folk dancing, its great. They even have their own Country costumes now. Puts our Morris dancing to shame, it does. You must come down and see them. Last weekend, your Klyne, Amanda and Lorraine did a few numbers as the Three Degrees. Brought the house down. They had to repeat the performance again for the whole staff. That Amanda has a super voice. Tells me you’re pretty useful on the ivories and guitar yourself. You must promise to come down one evening with Amanda and put on a performance. The staff here would love it and they are dying to see you, the young maverick, who’s in charge of the whole charabanc. You must come Renton.”

“I will Harry, I promise.”

“I’ll keep you to that. The other thing is I have rented about another hundred acres from an adjoining farm which was in the report I gave out.”

“Still ploughing through it Harry, haven’t come to your bit yet. Why was that?”

“A few reasons Renton my boy. Firstly, to give me more riding area, especially in the winter when the rides get a bit worn and secondly I can now link up to another network of bridleways which stretches for miles and miles without having my riders go out on the roads. There’s been other benefits too. I’ve given up on all the agriculture and got a local farmer to do that. Auctioned off all my machinery, combines and stuff so we can convert the barn into something more useful. It’s all in the report. I reckon the best thing I did was to employ an events manager. Alf used to work as a manger at Alton Towers so knows how to bring in the punters and what goes down well. We have a monthly hunt now.”

“I thought hunting was banned now Harry.”

“It is and a good thing too but this is just for entertainment so that the gentry all get dressed up and we ride from pub to pub in a sort of figure of eights so that the foot followers can catch up. A motorbike lays down the scent for the hounds. The staff join in, when it’s their day off. Get up to a hundred riders and double the number of spectators. Alf puts on theme rides.”

“What do you mean by theme rides Harry?”

“Well, apart from the traditional red hunting jackets, we have cowboy events where people have to turn out in Western gear. I’m a dead ringer for John Wayne; got the holsters, large saddle, blanket roll, Winchester rifle and the Stetson of course. People now are trying to out do themselves so it’s quite a show. Since the Historic Enactment lot from Oxford have started practicing on our hillside, we have a Cavalry ride. Stasiek brought over some old Polish cavalry uniforms for his staff and they look really swish. We’ve got Round Heads, Cavaliers, Polish Ulani, Cossacks, French Hussars and lots of others that I don’t even recognise. Amanda has many of these on display in her café, for purchase of course. Lorraine can get them made up in China for peanuts and ships them over. You must come and see for yourself Renton.”

“I promise Harry, I will but how is all this activity affecting the wider community Harry? All the extra traffic and all that?”

“Sorted that out Renton, the entertainment committee have taken on some social roles. Volunteers go out and do bits of gardening for the elderly people and they get invited to watch the folk dancing and things. We lay on tea and a spot of bingo for them. The minibus goes to Oxford every day for the staff to do some shopping and sight seeing. We offer this to the villagers since the local bus service runs only during school time and is a bit inconvenient for them times wise. The village WI hut was falling down and do you know what? Stasiek sent a group of his guys down, demolished the whole thing and rebuilt it in a day. Good as new now. The local vicar gets his cemetery grass cut and all the fallen gravestones repositioned firmly. The locals like us and we’ve brought in a lot of business. Even the County Council has recognised our contributions and are improving the roads and planning some widening projects.”

“What about the competition with other stables in the area Harry? Aren’t we taking away their business and pissing them off.”

“Hardly! They get referrals from us and take part in the hunts. Enough to go around. I think we have generated new business for them from the London crowd. We get on well and help each other out when need be. Look Renton I’ve gone on long enough now, you’ve got work to do and I have a growing queue in front of me. Last thing, what lovely poppets Nigel’s kids are. They stayed over with us at the mobile home and Mrs. M wants to adopt them. I hope they come again?”

“Where did Klyne and Amanda stay then?”

“Sorry, ‘no room at the inn!’ They had to be put up in bunks in the stable lad’s quarters.”

“That would be a comedown for them.”

“No Renton, they are quite comfortable and clean. No ‘en suite’ but nought to complain about. Bye Renton or I’ll have a riot to put down. Please come and visit us.”

“Thanks Harry, I will, and book me a session with the entertainment committee. Bye.”

Chapter 50

“Hey Partridge, I’ve just spoken to Harry and I’ve just managed to read his report to the Board. He doesn’t pull any punches and he seems full of it.”

“I see him regularly when I go riding and he’s what it says on the tin, a very meticulous manager and super conscientious. Really looks after all the staff there including the ones officially working for Stasiek. Do you know he does his inspection rounds daily either on foot or on horseback and nothing misses his observations. Notes everything down and gives a copy to the Departmental Head for correction and signing off, every fag end, matchstick, blade of grass out of place. He even inspects the bunkhouses for tidiness like at school and the culprits get money docked out of their wages or they have to shovel shit for a couple of hours. Some of Stasiek’s older guys, who’ve been in the army even fold their blankets square and set out all their gear for inspection.”

“Isn’t this going a bit far Partridge?”

“Well not in his books, it means the maids can do a thorough job in cleaning and have more time to spend on the bogs and showers. He also makes sure everyone is properly dressed especially in view of the guests and clients. No builder’s bums and no jug handles to be seen. Reminds me, I have a finance request for three set of uniforms for the staff especially for the stable lot, like in the Cadets at school Renton. A smart dress uniform for parade, a daily uniform and..”

“But this isn’t the Army, what the hell for?”

“You’ll see the point if you let me explain. The dress uniform, which your beloved Klyne is going to design, will be based on cavalry dress wear and will be worn in the hotel by the front of house staff, the gate people and at the hunts and formal dances.”

“Sounds a bit OTT.”

“The staff agreed and think it will make them look distinguished, especially the hotel staff, who hate their current drab uniforms and want to be all part of the equestrian scene.”

“OK, what’s the daily school uniform going to be?”

“Don’t be sarcy Renton. They will wear a sort of smart riding jacket, britches and long brown boots to match. All staff will wear that if they are working or in sight of clients, even if they are outside exercising a string of horses.”

“So, they’ll be busy flipping from one set to another.”

“Maybe every half shift, but will not be allowed to wear them in leisure time.”

“So, what have they got to wear when they are shovelling horse shit, a boiler suit and gas mask?”

“You get the picture. For menial tasks they can wear jeans, trainers, fleeces and T-shirts or your boiler suits if they wish, all with our logo on them and they have a clean outfit daily, washed overnight.”

“Sounds like a bit of too much pampering Partridge.”

“Well at least they won’t smell of horse shit all the time.”

“I suppose Klyne is going to design some weird outfits for Stasiek’s guys with a ‘Bob the builder’ motif on the breast pocket?”

“You may jest Renton but you should have noticed that they already all have white overalls since most of their work is with clients in their homes and future new apartments. Stasiek wants them to look smart. The only concession is that that they will have your family crest emblazoned in Technicolor on their backsides.”

“That will be the day Partridge! One concern I’ve picked up is that we seem to be putting the hotel extension on the back burner. Your accounts show it to be very profitable.”

“Since when have you been allowed to read my accounts without the benefit of my wisdom?”

“Do it all the time Sir, under the bedclothes with a candle in a jar.”

“You’ll go far Renton. I don’t suppose you got to Stasiek’s report then? Too busy playing with yourself eh? Turns you blind they tell me. We over gilded the lily on the hotel Renton, too posh and splooshy. Full marks for noticing how profitable it is though but it’s not adding value to the equestrian side. We were hoping, if you remember, to attract the younger moneyed set from London to come and spend their ill-gotten gains on riding holidays but the hotel is fully booked for six months or more. Even a mouse can’t get in. Stasiek is working on plans for a pub type hotel on our site, with pool table, music, slot machines and all that, with more modest accommodation, where these people can feel at home with their pals and also provide an outlet for our staff, rather than have them marauding in Oxford and getting into trouble.”

“That will cost a bit won’t it?”

“Yes, but it will help with the overall revenues. Added Value it’s called Renton. Read the bloody report, it’s all there.”

“I will, I will Sir, but please don’t put me in detention cos me mum needs her shopping doing!”

“I see you have seen the error of your ways boy, and as a treat let me show you something special, back in the Physics prep room.”

“But Sir, I’ve seen it already when you were flashing in the park. Enough of that Partridge and onto more serious matters. Mr. Trevor Bloody Lancaster has been sniffing in our back yard and I don’t like it.”

“I picked that up from Amanda and got my scouts to check out his latest movements. It appears that Mr. Lord Lancaster as he would like to be called shortly has been palling up with your elder brother, Sir Smart Arse Gerald. Rumours have been spreading that you Mr. Renton, who is just out of nappies, had his brother back balled out of his club for spite. I didn’t know you firstly frequented such august establishments and secondly had such influence to toss your dearest brother into the gutter.”

“Well, the secret is out Partridge. What’s Lancaster up to? I did some checking myself along my well established grapevine and the bush telegraph says he’s on the rampage and a nasty piece of work he is at that. It seems that we have snubbed him in the past when he wanted to invest in us and his main mission in life is now to engulf our business. We need to watch our step.”

“Interesting Mr. Watson and since you have spotted that ploy, I think we should cool off our deal with him on the Property Development thing we have going with Norman.”

“I agree. I don’t think we have the experience to handle a take over by the likes of him.”

“I’m going to plug a hole in our defences by a letter, reminding our shareholders that they have to sell their shares back to us as their first priority and if they disregard that, then the value of the share to the third party drops to the original value when we bailed you brother out, which would be less that thirty pence in the pound, plus some substantial management costs.”

“Great but what would happen if little Lord Fontelroy engineered a run on our shares. Paid people off to off load them back to us? Would we be able to honour that debt and survive?”

“Do not fret young boy, we have sufficient funds that we can call on to hold our own if we play the delaying game, but you Renton, need to get in touch with our key investors and test the water. I personally don’t think they will take the thirty pieces of silver from Mr. Lancaster. My spies tell me that he’s not the most popular person on this earth.”

“OK Partridge, suppose we play him at his own game and get some of our loyal clients to accept his silver, how much can we afford to pay back?”

“I always knew you were a devious bugger. Mummy said I shouldn’t play with you cos you’ll pinch all my toys. We could do with offloading some ten million groats, would make our balance sheet look better. You, Mr. Renton, are going to be busy on the blower talking this up with your friends and telling them how we will discount the management charges if they comply with our wishes.”

“I’m at it already Partridge but won’t that just piss him off more?”

“Probably, but he’s always talking on about his dicky heart and he might just have a turn because of it, which would let us off the hook. Bit morbid but…” 

“Bollocks Partridge, the boyo is pulling your plonker over this heart business. I reckon it’s his devious excuse to get some sympathy and change his wife when it suits him. Can’t you see through this mist that he is spinning?”

“You’re probably right Renton. You’re the best judge of character I know. OK, so I will also set up a fund to fill our war chest just to be ready for the offensive and I think, through your contacts, you should spread the evil rumour that Lord Lancaster paid his doctor off for a spurious diagnosis some ten years ago and has been living off the lie and hoodwinking his friends and business partners ever since. That should let the cat out amongst the pigeons.”    

“Good thinking batman. Two can play at that game and I have some good contacts in the City who would just love to pay him off. I think we can do that without him being aware. Let’s continue with the Norman deal but no closure. I’ll have a word with Norman myself and see if he’s been nobbled by Lancaster yet. We’ll call this our ‘War of the Roses’ Partridge. Do we bring your dad into this or will he think this whole act too unethical?”

“I shall ask the old man for advice first and see how far I can unfold the story. He would be an excellent ally only to provide a ‘no comment’ should anyone ask him if the rumours are true. Can you get your girls in the office to check back the newspaper records on Lancaster to see if they can find the reference to the first time he announced his grave illness. We could do with the name of the doctor who diagnosed him and you can get your press friends to question his strange diagnoses and is the wool really being pulled over people’s eyes and to what purpose. At least we can discredit the doctor by saying he bought a villa in the Caymen Islands soon after and that will get the ball rolling. Give me a call tomorrow and we’ll draw up the battle lines.”

“OK Partridge, but what if the whole thing is true and he does have a dicky heart?”

“At least we will have protected our position and why should he suspect us, a couple of guys just out of nappies anyway. I will send him some dubious proposals to read just to express our interest.”

I spent over an hour phoning my most influential contacts, asking pointed questions and posing. By the time I had finished I had managed to establish that Lancaster hadn’t been nobbling my investors as yet, though one or two had had curious messages from him suggesting that they should meet up for a drink and a chat. I also gathered lots of current and useful data on his actions and associations with Gerald. They all agreed to support me in my quest to maintain independence of my Company and would keep me informed of any move that he made. The main message I got was advice to stay well clear of Mr. Lancaster.

 By this time, I was getting curious about this gentleman and his activities and decided to check with Crabby in Singapore, who was a mine of all information and had access to elements not at his fingertips. “Could you put me through to Sir Earnest Crabtree please?” I requested in my most pleasant of tones. “This is Renton of Renton Holdings, London, calling.”

“Sorry Sir, Sir Earnest is not available today.”

“Can you pass a message on to him that Renton wants Crabby’s advice on Brother, on Floor Five,” which was a simple coded message that the receptionist would hopefully understand.

“Yes Sir, I shall pass that on immediately. What number shall I note?”

“No number required,” another coded message that the receptionist would understand.

“Understood,” was the reply and the line disconnected. I waited a couple of minutes just in case he called back and sure enough my mobile rang showing a private number.

“Hello Renton, What’s up?”

“Thanks for calling back so promptly Crabby. I have a problem and need some advice and information.”

“Gerald has stuck his silly head over the parapet again and blaming you for having him black balled out of his club, though all that sounds a bit far fetched. I’m not even sure of his motives are you?”

“The first I heard of this black balling was from Trevor Lancaster who I met in Nice for the first time.”

“Trevor Lancaster? That rogue. What’s your association with him?”

“Well, he’s been wanting to invest in our Company for some time now.”

“For what purpose Renton?”

“He didn’t give any specific reason other than some bullshit about how well we are doing. We do have an opportunity now for some investment money from him on a specific deal but I’m getting suspicious and some of my investors are telling me in no uncertain terms that I should stay clear of him. That’s why I rang, to get info on him.”

“Go on Renton, I’m just bringing up his detailed history on the screen to refresh my memory.”

“What made me suspicious is that in Nice, he talked about himself taking the initiative to blackball Gerald and now they seem to be as thick a thieves and both blaming me.”

“Right Renton, just listen to this. Lancaster, a Prefect, was summarily expelled out of a minor Public School for organised crime against the juniors, systematically relieving them of their pocket money, it seems. After that, he became a low-grade wheeler and dealer outside and only popped up on our radar when he started arms dealing on a minor scale. He was seriously warned off by the cartel and he then went into cheap Rentals and Loan Sharking, with heavies collecting the ante. We suspected he also got involved with drug peddling in a small way at that time. He then hit the big time with an ingenious idea for shipping hard drugs from Colombia to the States. Used timber ships bound for Bergen, which happen to lose their ship’s lifeboat in North Atlantic, packed with drugs, to be picked up by an Icelandic fishing boat.”

“Sounds like shipping coals to Newcastle?”

“Regular trade Renton, hard woods for veneers for the furniture industry. The drugs would then be packed with cod and shipped to Newfoundland. Sniffer dogs didn’t stand a chance. He obviously made a fortune out of it because the Colombian Barron’s elbowed him out and took over the route, themselves. He only popped up on our radar again by snitching on them, obviously to get his own back. We should have ratted on him at that time but we let it pass. Would have earned him a concrete coffin, I no doubt. With the ill-gotten money, he was the one who invented asset stripping big time. Nothing illegal about it but the Home Office got concerned by him helping himself to great chunks of the Pension Funds. He was warned off that tactic so moved into share dealing in a big way. Nothing could be proven but a note here suggests that he was probably involved in insider dealings and manipulation of share prices. I’m just giving you the gist Renton. Oh, he then went legitimate, buying up struggling Companies and building them up. By this time he was a billionaire according to Forbes, then used a lot of money in an attempt to buy himself a Knighthood. Brought about the ‘Cash for Honours’ scandal, engineered by our lot I gather. I don’t think our dear Queen would have approved of him really, more likely to have honoured him with a spell in Tower. He himself spread the rumour that he had turned down the nomination, even though he had spent a personal fortune on good works to engineer it. Next thing we know is that his personal Doctor falsely gives him two years to live. Not sure what the motives were for that. Probably to gain some sympathy, that’s all I can suggest. This recent rumour, that he has been nominated for a Lordship has emanated from his own over imaginative backside. I should stay clear of our predatory Mr. Lancaster. Keep him at arms length Renton my boy.”

“Just what I had surmised Crabby. Thanks. Look, we are little minnows in the pond with sharks like that against us. Any ideas on how we should proceed. We did think of discrediting his doctor and diagnosis but that seems rather foolish now.”

“Use your contacts in the media to make some foolish comments about quacks and miracle cures. That will get him planted in the papers, which I know he doesn’t like and then I’ll have him publicly arrested for Tax Evasion. No concrete evidence but that should keep him and his lawyers busy. If he threatens to sue then I’ll send him a copy of this interesting CV of his in front of me, with a threat of a copy to the papers. If that doesn’t give him a heart attack then I don’t know what will?”

“If your department has so much stuff on him, why hasn’t he been exposed earlier?”

“Can’t tell you that Renton, suffice that he is doing his bit for the British economy and spending poots of money on good works.”

“Why has he teamed up with brother Gerald then?”

“God knows! He doesn’t even belong to his former club; was blackballed by the President, probably on our say. I think our Lancaster is up to his scheming again and I can only surmise your Company could be the target. Call your friendly investors and see where the land lies with them.”

“I’ve done just that and asked them to warn me if they are approached by him. Partridge and I think he may want to buy in that way. We have planned a sort of counter bid so that Lancaster pays our investors to sell, since we can afford that now.”

“Be careful Renton, he’s not going to fall for that one I’m sure. Far too crafty! I’ve currently got a surveillance training programme running in London. I’ll put an open tail on him. That should worry him for a while then I’ll throw the Tax evasion charge at him. Arrest him with lots of publicity, put him in the clink until his lawyers extricate him with loss of passport and a deposit of monies owed with the Bank of England, until the case unravels.”

“Have you the powers to do all that Crabby?”

“Do it all the time Renton. Keeps the Mafia and other organised crime at bay and off British territory. Forget the Triads from Asia. In London they are our pawn or more rightly the finger on the pulse, for the real shower out here.”

“I’ll think I’ll go and change my underwear right away Crabby.”

“No need for that yet Renton but with your permission I’d like to open a file on you and your Company. It will give me first insight into any predatory move against you. You haven’t any skeleton’s in your cupboard have you Renton?”

“I haven’t had the time to make waves like that.”

“Good Renton, keep it that way because like it or not I will have a report on my desk every time you fart. Keep me informed of any significant developments in the usual manner. Must go now. Bye.”

Chapter 51

“Renton, can you give me five minutes.”

“Yes Stasiek, you make it sound urgent. What is it?”

“Didn’t mean to Renton, it’s just that I’ve arranged a conference call and you are the last on. Couldn’t get hold of you.”

“Sorry, was with an important client. Now, who’s on?”

“The usual suspects, Jadzia, Alice, Duncan, Nigel and Amanda, Harry with Sophie, Lorraine with Klyne and Partridge of course.”

“Hi everyone, sorry to have kept you all waiting, should have sent me a text Stasiek. I can track those more easily. Now what’s going on?”

“I am trying to get everyone down to the riding centre this weekend. Gail told us you were free Renton. There’s a lot of outstanding issues we need to resolve and prioritise. The ‘War of the Roses’ is the major one.”

“What about accommodation for all of us?”

“Harry here, it’s all sorted Renton. I’ve moved into my own house now so Amanda, Nigel and the poppets are staying with me. You, Klyne, Partridge and his latest are staying in my old mobile home and the rest in Stasiek’s mobile. Go on Stasiek, tell them the best.”

“Thanks Harry, apart from finishing house for Harry, Stasiek finish pavilion. On Saturday night we have opening party for all. Amanda and Klyne arrange.”

“What have you arranged Amanda?”

“Not telling Renton, only a select few know but I can tell you, that we two are booked for a session. I will text you the songs I intend to sing.”

“Does that satisfy my promise to you Harry?”

“Surely will Renton and you will have to compare part of the proceedings after the formal events are over.”

“Harry, you are telling too much!”

“Sorry Amanda, I’ll shut up now.”

“Stasiek, I suppose the catering is all seen to?”

“Yes, Renton and its going to be on a Polish scale so I warn you, the whole meal will take three hours or more so pace yourselves. Lots and lots of courses, bit like a Chinese banquet but much better.”

“Sounds up my street Stasiek. Have you ordered the bowser full of vodka?”

“Yes, Renton but we have had to taste the quality so not a lot left for you!”

“Don’t take any notice of him Renton. There’s enough booze on order to sink the Titanic.”

“Thanks Klyne, you can provide the ice. All of our catering staff including the ones from the hotel are involved. One question for you Renton?”

“Yes Stasiek?”

“Mrs. Partridge heard about our celebration and wants to come and help out in the kitchens. I’m not sure what to say. I don’t want to disappoint her but they will be very busy and I don’t think the Chefs can afford time to look after her.”

“You should have addressed that question to Partridge but I’ll answer for him. If Elizabeth has volunteered to work then it will be as a true help rather than getting in the way. She’s intrigued by the Polish cuisine and probably wants to be hands on, don’t you think Partridge?”

“Right on Renton, just give her a pinny and she’ll peel spuds and slice cabbage all day for you. No probs.”

“Good Renton, Good Partridge I was worried that she might just get in the way. Mr. and Mrs P are staying in the Hotel, a late cancellation. Thank you everybody, that’s all.”

“Hang on a minute please.”

“Yes Amanda.”

“Renton, Sally, the ex of Lancaster came to see me about the new apartment and I quizzed her about his Lordship. She is not a happy bunny. Lancaster has reneged on some of the alimony he promised so she was all too happy to dish the dirt on the bastard. I asked her why Lancaster was so interested in Gerald these days. She said that she overheard a conversation that intimated that Lancaster was to invest money for Gerald in some offshore secret account. The figure, she was certain, was ten million. She remembers that particularly since it’s the amount Lancaster was to hand over to her.”         

“So that’s where the ten million is, with Gerald somewhere.”

“That’s right Partridge. The bastard must have secreted it away under a mattress somewhere because we couldn’t trace it.”

“Anything else Amanda?”

“Yes and this may be important. Sally said that Lancaster almost jumped for joy when he came off the phone. It would seem to Sally, that since the money isn’t kosher, it’s likely to go straight into Lancaster’s pocket and Gerald will lose it forever.”

“But that amounts to stealing Amanda?”

“Yes, Duncan and effectively our money. Since Gerald is a nobody, he’s not going to go to the proper authorities to claim that Lancaster has the stolen money that he has stolen elsewhere.”

“Well done Amanda. I shall instantly pass that on to someone who will hopefully get that money back for us. This all explains why Lancaster and Gerald were so lovey- dovey together. Anything said on his investments with us Amanda?”

“I’m afraid not Renton.”

“OK Amanda thanks, I’ll get right onto it and will you bring Sally around to my office or shall I go and see her re the apartment?”

“I’ll invite her here since she wants her place set out just like mine. But she’s away for two weeks which might be too late for getting more information out of her."

“Have you anything to tell us Amanda?”

“No?” she answered quizzically.

“Anything that Biggles and you have to tell us?”

“Don’t call him ‘Biggles,’ it’s Nigel, Renton.”

“Well, if Amanda isn’t going to spill the beans then I will,” answered Nigel. “I have asked her to marry me and she has accepted,” followed by cheers and shouts of congratulation from all.

“OK guys, to work, we will celebrate this announcement this weekend.”

Friday night we were all down at our equestrian centre but most people were too busy with preparations to bother with us. We popped into one of the kitchens to find Elizabeth at a small bench in the corner of the kitchen making pierogi. 

“How are you getting on mum?” asked Partridge kindly.

“Hello you two, I’m busy can’t you see. I’ve got to make five hundred of these blasted pierogi parcels and the first ten fell apart when I boiled them. Then I’ve got to fill another five hundred cannelloni by the end of tonight so you two better buzz off.”

“Thanks mum, are they going to be all one flavour?”

“Don’t ask silly questions boy, of course not. Six different fillings for pierogi and six for cannelloni and two of those will be to my recipe, now be off with you!”

“Yes Mum!” we both said in unison and made our quick exit. We tried to find Harry who might be more amenable to chat and tell us something but he was too busy entertaining Nigel’s kids, so having found Biggles, we all three buggered off to the pub, to get something to eat and celebrate Biggles’s good news. When we got back quite late, we bumped into Klyne who made some excuse that she would be late and disappeared. We tried to find the pool tables but were told that they had already been moved to the new Pavilion. At the Pavilion we were told by a security guard to piss off in no uncertain terms and nobody, not even God himself could get a pass to get inside. A couple of Polish workers that I recognised took pity on us and invited us back to their quarters for cards and vodka. Since they liberally plied us with the stuff, they took us to the cleaners money wise. Partridge had to sub me substantially and to cap it all we ended up too pissed to find our way to our own beds so slept on the floor. Partridge and I fared well but Biggles was a long while unused to roughing it and could hardly walk next morning, with stiffness. We left after a hot shower and went out to scrounge some breakfast.  Fortunately, Marge spotted us and took us back to her new kitchen where we had to make our own. Partridge cooked whilst I went to find Biggles. When Biggles and I got back, Partridge was dishing out full breakfasts by the dozen to the Usual Suspects who had turned up and ate on the hoof, muttering that they were too busy to talk to us. Biggles worked the toaster and I made umpteen coffees and teas to various tastes, until all personnel had all disappeared.

“Right Partridge, now you can feed us?”

“Sorry guys it’s all gone. Some bread ends, one egg and three baked beans each.” We looked at each other and walked out to go back to the pub for breakfast there, hopefully. Stasiek caught me on my mobile and told us the meeting had been arranged for eleven in the hotel breakfast room. We managed to grab a sausage butty each and wended our way back as quickly as possible.

“Do you mind Renton, I will chair this meeting since I need some resolutions on the local projects and then we can get to your part of the agenda?”

“That’s fine by me Stasiek. I’m expecting an important call at some point so I have installed a speaker phone. We may have to break up to handle that first but carry on with your business.”

“Thanks Renton, the immediate thing on the agenda is that the Company we appointed to operate the equestrian side has gone into liquidation so we have to take over the running of this place ourselves. Harry, can you update.”

“I’m not going to beat about the bush on this but we are in good shape. The key section leaders are good and I’ve made sure of that. One of the Ground Staff, Lutek the Latvian has an MBA, would you believe it, and I’m going to put him in charge as General Manager with view to promoting him to MD in the future. I’ll act as MD for the moment and in six months time Sophie here will finish her degree and join us to boost the management side, as a trainee, so no worries there.”

“Thanks Harry, now what about this adjoining farm?”

“Ah yes Stasiek. The next-door farmer is getting on a bit and wants to retire. I have asked him for first refusal on his farm.”

“To what end Harry?” I asked.

“I want to turn it into a stud farm Renton. Lots more money in breeding racehorses than riding them for leisure. It would be a convenient extension of this place. All the infra structure is in place.”

“I’ve checked your numbers Harry and they are spot on,” interrupted Partridge. “The bank will cough up the loan with no problem. We should proceed with this at pace.”

“What’s holding us up Harry?”

“Well, the old boy is slow at making his mind up Renton. You know how conservative us farmers are.”

“OK, what’s stopping him making the decision to retire. What are his dreams for the future Harry.”

“That’s easy to answer. Reg and his missus wants a house like ours, set up on the hill above the farm and his missus wants to cultivate roses. That’s all Renton.”

“Stasiek, what’s difficult about that? We could build him that and set up a garden for his wife, couldn’t we?”

“Planning permission might be an issue but all in all there is no reason why not.”

“Right Harry, get in touch with Reg and his missus right after this meeting, invite them to this do this evening and we’ll sweet talk him into it. Whilst this is going through then his Missus can tend the roses here on this patch.”

“Thanks Renton, I’ll be onto it right away.”

“OK guys, we now come to the pub we want to construct on site. The delay in putting forward application was due to too many inclusions you wanted in plan, changing rooms, saunas, gym, offices etc, etc. We can do all that but we may have to extend the planned basement. Put two basements in but English planners not like basements.”

“Surely, they would rather have most of the building hidden from view rather than on show?”

“Yes Duncan but nobody build basements in England. Plenty in Europe and in London but not one in Oxfordshire. To English planners basements mean damp cellar to keep coal.”

“OK Stasiek, can we send a couple of local planners abroad, somewhere you know, to look at basements?”

“Yes, plenty in Krakow Renton.”

“OK, tell me when and I’ll arrange an informal trip for the head man and his wife to Krakow and you can show him basements, cellars, salt mines, the lot, but convince him that its better than sliced bread.”

“OK Renton but you must promise to go too. Sorry Renton phone rings.”

“Hello Renton, its Gail. I have had a letter delivered by courier and he wants the letter back. He is standing next to me. Shall I read it out? It doesn’t even say who it’s from.”

“Thanks Gail, I’m going to put you onto the squawk box so the usual crowd can here. Speak clearly.”

“Thanks Renton but I’ve quickly read it through and I’m not sure that it’s for ‘all eyes’ if you get my drift.”

“No problem Gail, all people here are aware of this issue and I promise to kill anyone myself if they divulge any secrets out of this room.”

“Bit drastic Renton but here goes, it starts, ‘Floor six, your media release hit the spot re bogus doctor report. Open surveillance on Lancs did the trick. He contacted Met and told, not them, must be Drug Squad. Pity, was my trump card. Visited by Senior Home Officer, Lancs checked identity, told man it was valid but couldn’t comment on what rank or office.’ Does this make any sense Renton?”

“Yes Gail, just carry on. You’re loud and clear.”

“Officer requested all six passports, was handed five. Hope Lancs makes his escape, will follow. HM Inland Revenue visited Gerald demanded ten million. Let slip Lancs snitched. Passport confiscated. Money still under mattress, not handed over yet. Yet to find where. Gerald threatened with custody. Latest.” Then it gives instructions that I have to give it back to the courier who is to burn it in my sight Renton.”

“Thank you Gail. Do exactly as the instructions say and don’t talk about this to anyone.”

“I wont, I won’t Renton, but it’s most exciting.”

“Thanks Gail, just put the phone down and see to the instructions.”

“What the hell was that about Renton?”

“I’ll explain Harry, I have a friend who is very high up in the Home Office, a Diplomat with a capital D. He spends his time chasing up rogues and scams that might upset the apple cart in this Country. I asked him for some advice on Lancaster and my brother Gerald. He obviously got his minions to frighten the shit out of the pair. I think his ploy was to get Lancaster out of the Country so that he cannot bother us for a while.”

“But with a passport, can’t he just return Renton?”

“Yes Duncan, but I suspect that there will be someone waiting at whatever border he crosses to relive him of the same. Maybe not, since he may just want to track his whereabouts. The money that Gerald has hidden somewhere could be a problem for us, in that the Revenue may confiscate it. We’ll have to wait and see on that, but for the moment, Lancaster is off our patch and we can do further investigations to find out what his ultimate intentions are, relating to our Company. For the moment, there is no link to us on this thing, so please don’t talk to anyone about it at all. Not even amongst ourselves and certainly not over the phone.”  

“Thanks Renton for the explanation and on that sobering note I suggest we break and get ready for the entertainments. I should miss lunch if I were you. OK guys back to work. We’ll finish the agenda on Sunday afternoon.”

Amanda and Klyne collared me and dragged me off for a fitting for a costume I had to wear. It was a cavalry officer’s uniform, of which Country or Army I’m not sure, suffice to say it was a bit gaudy.

“Stand still Renton, I just can’t understand why this is too small?”

“I’m a big lad you know?”

“But we ordered the largest size and it’s still too small Amanda.”

“Let me take the waistcoat off and at least I may button up the jacket. Er sorry folks, the sides won’t even meet and the sleeves under the armpits are killing me.”

“I know what we do Amanda, we slit the sleeves and force some red silk through them. It will be novel but at least get us out of this mess. Renton, have you been growing lately?”

“Sorry you two but you just underestimated my size, that’s all. I’ll just have to forgo the jacket.”

“No you can’t Renton, not with all the effort we put in today. Amada, we will slit the sleeves and he can wear the jacket open, with a cummerbund. That’s the solution. You can go now darling and we’ll fix it.”

“Thanks and whilst you’re at it cut off some of that gold spaghetti.”

“Buzz off Renton, we know what we are doing.”

“Charming!” With that I pulled up my jeans, slipped on my shirt and bade them farewell, making my escape to find Biggles or Partridge but was suddenly brought back. “Yes Amanda?”

“Don’t just run off like that darling!”

“I presume the ‘darling’ means you need something else from me Amanda darling?”

“Don’t be silly, we haven’t time for jokes. I’ve had the electric piano brought in here for you to fiddle with, to get the right background music and we just need to rehearse a bit.”

“But we’ve done these numbers countless times Amanda.”

“I know darling but we need to be perfect.”

At the appointed hour, we all presented ourselves in the courtyard, outside the Pavilion for the proceedings to begin. Most of the people there were in costumes, me in my clown’s cavalry officer’s garb, Stasiek in a resplendent Polish Officers uniform, Partridge as one of the Horse Guards and lots of Polish, Ukrainian, Czech and Chinese dancers in traditional costumes. Harry, in his red hunting outfit, blew his hunting horn and there was a roll of drums. Suddenly the doors of the indoor arena opened and out came a little Shetland pony with a smiling Rosalind leading the way, followed by mounted horses with riders dressed in resplendent uniforms. We all clapped and cheered as they rode by. They were followed by the stable staff sporting the latest Frasier Klyne creations including staff uniforms and working overalls for Stasiek’s men with the Company Logo emblazoned on the back. A gypsy caravan brought up the rear and the girls accompanying it, dressed in Country costumes were handing out specially designed polo shirts to all with our logo.

Once everyone had reassembled, Stasiek announced that Rosalind would cut the ribbon and we would be allowed, at last, into the pavilion. The doors were swung back and everybody crowded in excitedly but in an orderly fashion. A glass of bubbly was presented to each person plus a little coloured flag to indicate which table they were allocated. To the right was a stage set up and to the left was the kitchen area with the staff standing at attention, in resplendent white uniforms, including chef’s hats. Everybody broke into instant applause and a small band on stage started a loud marching tune. The whole place was decorated with flowers and the white walls were painted with hunting scenes, battle scenes, cavalry charges and other equestrian themes. I recognised Jadzia’s handiwork in all of this. Harry blew his horn and brought the crowd to order.

“Please find your seat ladies and gentlemen, the coloured flags will lead you to your right table, thank you!” he shouted, then some one handed him the mike and he proceeded, “We will get the formalities over first then we will all party,” There was instant applause. “Now can I ask all the people with red flags who are looking rather puzzled to come and gather around me near the stage. Surprise, surprise these are the people who can’t find their table. I have a special task for them.” I looked at my red flag and wondered what Harry had conjured up for me. Harry continued as a buzz of expectation went around the room. “These people are the Directors of Renton Holdings and associate Companies that employ you!” Applause started and Harry waited a moment and continued. “In old English fashion I will introduce them one by one as they come up on stage so that you lot there will know who you are dealing with. After that, they will start their duties by serving you the first course. The observant amongst you will have noticed that there is a spare place at each table, well our senior officers will circulate amongst you and continue to change places after every serving so that you can get to know them. Can I ask you all to be on your best behaviour since this will be a long evening and I don’t want too many volunteers on the mucking out duties tomorrow.” That brought another round of applause and laughter.

“Can I first of all, introduce you to our young Chief Executive Officer, who is equivalent to God in our Company, who simply goes by the name of Renton. Please come up Renton.” I stepped up onto the stage in my clown outfit, amidst much applause, feeling very silly.

“Hi everybody, I’m not about to make a speech, only to say I shall be very pleased to get to know you all by the end of this evening.” Further polite applause and mutterings as Harry introduced each Director and Senior Managers in turn. The band restarted again and we were ushered by Harry to the kitchen area and given a huge platter to take to an appointed table. I joined a table of what looked like Cossacks and made my introductions. I hadn’t sat down for more than a minute when Harry grabbed me and told me we need to do the walk around since people were all curious and anxious to meet me, so we spent the next few courses milling with the crowd. I was surprised how many people Harry knew and was able to chat to them freely.      

After about an hour or so, when people were well fed and oiled, the entertainment started on stage with a Ukrainian dance troupe doing their bit, in traditional National costumes, accompanied by an accordionist and a couple of violins. They were followed by other dance troupes, jugglers and acrobats, plus a couple of comics who told jokes in various languages. The mid break entertainment finished with a multiracial choir that sang a variety of folk songs including some Scottish reels. During this entertainment period I managed to sneak off to introduce myself and thank the kitchen staff for all their good work. Elizabeth was elated by the experience and couldn’t contain herself in praising the chefs and staff. She said she had a wonderful experience and learned a lot. I was only hopeful that some of this European cuisine would end up as standard fare in Mayfair. A couple of comics ended the sessions with a few more jokes and Harry completed the proceedings by thanking the artists, all home grown on site, for their splendid performance to rapturous applause. He announced that during the interval, the tables would be moved out and requested that people took their drinks and moved their chairs to the sides to make space for a dance floor. I also noticed that half the stage was being dismantled to create even more space. The tables were cleared and stacked outside by a specially appointed team and in no time a dance floor was created in the centre with low benches brought in and set before the seated so that more food could be served and they had somewhere to rest their drinks.    

 I took this opportunity to collar Harry and went to have a chat with Reg and Ruby. Harry put it to them that we were very interested in his farm and that our workmen would build him a cottage like Harry’s as part of the deal. I told them that there may be some planning delays but we would work on that.

“Thanks Harry and thanks Renton for inviting us to this marvellous show. Sorry we are a bit slow making our minds up since it’s a big decision but my heart’s gone out of farming. It’s me age catching up with me you see.”

“We understand that Reg and Ruby and we will do anything to smooth that path and make it easier for you to come to the right decision for you.”

“Ruby is interested in roses you see but the site on the hill could be too windy and cold for them, even though it’s got super views. The old farm could be suitable but it’s in quite a state.”

“What old farm Reg?”

“Well Renton, when my Granddad came down from Yorkshire and bought this farm, he also bought an adjoining one to make a bigger holding. The old farm building is in the Grange Hollow, all hidden by trees. We use it for storage and it’s been allowed to decay. Not really had much use for it. My son put in planning application to convert it but he went off to Canada to farm there so the thing lapsed.”

“Reg, I’ll send Stasiek around next week to have a look at it and you can give him an idea what you require in terms of accommodation and that.”

“Simple Renton, Ruby and I have fallen in love with Harry’s new place with all the new-fangled electrical things that make life easy. We need a garden for Ruby’s roses and some space to keep hens, ducks for the grandchildren to see when they come over.”

“What kind of time span are you looking for, to make this change?”

“If you could kick Harry out of his place, I reckon tomorrow wouldn’t be quick enough don’t you think Ruby?” 

“I can’t wait to give up on the farm accounts and Reg is too old to do all that manual work. He thinks Harry has done the best thing and now wishes he had done it years ago.”

“What are you going to spend your time doing with all the spare time on your hands Reg?”

“Enjoy it Harry! Enjoy it with no worries. I probably come and chew the cud with you and maybe get my old Bristol motor shipshape. It’s been badly neglected for years.”

“Can I make a suggestion that might solve your problem Reg and Ruby?”

“What’s that Renton?”

“Why don’t you lease the farm to Harry here and he manages it whilst you folks go off and see your grand children and consider all things. In the meantime we will resubmit the planning applications and see what comes of it. You two have a holiday and see what life is like on the outside.”

“Sounds a brilliant idea if Harry will take it on, how about it Harry?”

“No problem to me Reg, I can muster up plenty of labour and I know your place well, you’ve made life easier for yourself over time. The crops of barley and hay are already contracted to us so harvesting and keeping a weather eye on the place would be no problem.”

“Thanks Harry, you’re such good friend and neighbour. Reg and I will be in Oxford first thing arranging flights and Reg can go and see old Smiley to draw up the legal things.”

“You can have the bloody farm from tomorrow Harry and Renton with the view of buying it at a later stage. I’m sure you will give us the going rate Harry. Come on folks, let’s drink up to our new life. Renton, I’m kinda getting to like this vodka stuff. Where do you get it?”

“It’s special Polish stuff and I’ll make sure that Stasiek gets you a case in.”

“Thanks Renton, we know Stasiek. Tell him to just go and visit the Old Grange Farm, whenever he likes and poke about. If he can’t find the key, tell him just to break in. No problem.”

Harry blew on his hunting horn and brought the interval to the end. People looked towards him in expectation. “Right, let the entertainment continue. Before we start, I’d like to demonstrate to you what a clever Boss you all have. Renton I mean, not me, old Harry. The new generation, these are the people to take us all into the future. Now, I believe you all met Renton and chatted with him. Renton, come on, up on the stage lad, that’s it, don’t be shy! You all know him but does he know all of you? Well as a good boss he should and I think I know all of you, even Stasiek’s crew. Now huddle together and choose one member of your table to stand up and see if Renton can name you.” One of the stable girls stood up from the green table. “Right Renton, name this charming lass.”

“Hello Sylvie Lisiecka, you were born in Dusseldorf when your parents were there as guest workers and now they live outside of Stenin.”

“Thank you Renton you know more about Sylvie than I do. Now for a young man, pretty girls are easy. Let’s have a lad for a test.”

“Hi Grzegosz, Grzegosz Romanski, I hope I pronounced that right? A carpenter from Poznan whose rather soft on our Sylvie but hasn’t dared ask her out yet.” The room burst out into laughter and applause with a few wolf whistles and Sylvie hiding her face in embarrassment. Harry called up six more and I was able to identify them and give a little background which was my method of remembering people, giving them some hook in my mind.

“I think that’s enough Renton, we don’t want to embarrass any more of the folks out there. Now, you may have been wondering why Renton is wearing this rather fetching outfit? Well, it’s nothing to do with his status, with all that gold dangling about. It’s because he and Amanda, who you all know and love, are going to perform for us. Let me give you Renton and Amanda, straight from Paris, London and Rome to entertain you! Please give them a good round of applause ladies and gentlemen, to make them feel welcome.”

 Amanda came on stage in her striking riding outfit and picked up the microphone from Harry and announced, “Hi, everyone, I hope you all are enjoying yourselves as much as I am. Thanks for the introductions Harry. You folks are going to enjoy listening to Renton play and I shall accompany him, the best I can for your enjoyment, maybe later you could persuade him to play you some mean blues on the guitar. Over to you Renton!” shouted Amanda, as I immediately broke into a recognisable Chopin piece which suddenly ceased the applause. I immediately changed to some boogie-woogie, onto Scott Joplin and then onto a recognisable jazz number. I went back to the introduction of the jazz piece and Amanda joined in. We did five lengthy numbers and had to do two more encore’s. Then the crowd started chanting for the Three Degrees and Harry had to blow his horn to get some semblance of order.

“OK folks, that was terrific and you all enjoyed it. Klyne and Lorraine, would you two girls like to join the pair on stage and give your rendering of the Three Degrees that was enjoyed so much, on your last outing here.”

“Thanks Harry,” shouted Amanda, retrieving the mike, “come on Lorraine, where are you Klyne we can’t disappoint the audience and they can get a second viewing of Klyne’s newest design of riding outfits. Come on girls lets give it to them. Renton, you’ll have to keep up the best you can!” I belted out the introduction to a well-known Degrees classic and the crowd went wild. “Come on everybody, get on the dance floor, no shirking. Come on girls, make them pay for all the vodka they’ve necked!” The girls sang three numbers and we repeated the first before we all gave up. A DJ saved the day by continuing with a couple of more Degrees numbers before switching to more trendy stuff. Harry found some seating for us and one of the kitchen staff brought us a platter of finger food to eat whilst Biggles sorted out drinks for the girls.

I asked Elizabeth to dance, one of the slow ones and she was just running on adrenalin. 

“Renton, two things I have to say to you. One is that you must always invite me to your parties here. I’ve had a ball. The second is why didn’t you tell me, that you played so nicely and Amanda sang so well? You two will have to sing for your supper at Mayfair in the future and when this dance has finished can you ask Henry to escort me back to my room. My head is spinning.”

“That’s three things mum.”

“Never mind my dear boy, now give your mother a big hug and a kiss and lead her gently off the floor before she falls down and makes a scene.”

The whole party finished at midnight, with the band playing a slow Polish waltz. Since the whole thing started just after four in the afternoon, a midnight finish was gratefully received by all. As the dancers smooched around the floor, they all sang quietly in Polish or hummed if they didn’t know the words. Back at Harry’s old mobile home Klyne decided she needed to go straight to bed before she fell down and like a good boy, I followed her.

“I can’t sleep darling can you?”

“What’s this leading to Klyne? I thought you were too tired for pudding?”

“It’s not that Renton. I’m on a high. I can’t get over how these East Europeans know how to enjoy themselves. Amanda tells me that parties with Jadja were always this good.”

“They were, but she spends more time in Krakow now with her little son.”

“Will you take me to Krakow some time Renton?”

“I will Klyne darling, I plan to go there on some business and you can come too. I promise.”

“Renton?”

“Yes Klyne, what now?”

“Do you love me?”

“Of course I do!”  

“No, I mean really love me, as if you never, ever wanted to part?”

“What’s this leading to Klyne?”

“It’s not that but when I first saw you, my heart missed a beat. I was all flustered and had to hang onto Amanda for support. You noticed and went out to get some coffee, to let Amanda sort me out. Did you feel anything for me then Renton? Did you find me attractive?”

“Of course I found you attractive, otherwise I wouldn’t have fallen in with Amanda’s wicked plan.”

“But you didn’t feel any sudden crash, bang, wallop type of thing that I did?”

“No, but I find ‘love’ is something difficult to define, that is for me. Lust is one thing but I don’t think I have experienced that longing love that you talk about. Is it something that happens to you frequently?”

“First time darling. I had plenty of boyfriends at school and college and I could pick and choose. Most of them just wanted a grope and a fumble in the dark. The more adventurous one got short shrift. There was one or two that I allowed beyond first base but that was just for me to see what it was like. None of them were anywhere your standard Renton.”

“I’m glad of that Klyne!”

“It’s not like that Renton. Tell me, who do you rate as the most attractive girl that you have met? Let’s say the most beautiful?”

“Well, Biggles, Partridge and other lads rate girls on the Olympic scale. I’m sure you girls have some thing similar when you discuss lads. Partridge reckons that they are Qualifiers, if the sight of them, make his breeches stir but that’s Partridge for you.”

“OK, where does Amanda rate?”

“I put her down for the finals but the others rate her quarters at the best.”

“What about Lorraine then?”

“Definitely in the finals and probably on the rostrum more times than not.”

“OK, who would you put on the top deck of the girls you know?”

“That’s not too difficult. Yolanda is the top of the pile. She is so strikingly beautiful. Turns heads and maintains attention, even of the girls. Made me a bit envious when I went out with her, all eyes were on her?”

“Why on earth didn’t you two make it out and saved me this dilemma?”

“Missing that spark you are talking about. Both of us.”

“But you went out together for quite a while, I understand. Didn’t anything smoulder or ignite?”

“We loved each others company immensely and I would be there like a shot again but I doubt if it got further than being good friends, if you understand my drift.”

“You don’t mind me asking these things do you darling?”

“You can ask me anything Klyne but you’ll have to put up with a truthful reply.”

“I count on that. Now where do you rate me against say Lorraine?”

“Oh, I would put you higher, definitely.”

“Oh darling you’re not just saying that to please me?” 

“It’s the truth darling.”

“That’s good to know. Now, what about Suzy, you were joined at the hip for a long time, on your travels?”

“Now that’s a difficult one. At first I might have put her as a qualifier but she improved quickly and was constantly beating her best results.”

“Does that mean that she grew on you Renton? You actually grew to like her or love her as time went on?”

“I suppose you could say that. I didn’t go that far because she lacked the confidence and was always in awe of me.”

“We are all in awe of you. But does that mean that there is some spark of hope for me darling?”

“You never know, but don’t do anything stupid as before?”

“Sorry Renton, I was a spoilt child and you should have given me the big ‘E’ then and there and sent me packing back to Liverpool.”

“I’m glad we didn’t darling, now can we just shut up and make passionate love for the whole night?”

“Not yet darling. I have one more question for you.”

“Fire away and don’t be too long or I’ll wither away.”

“Don’t worry about that I have ways of making you stand to attention. Now shush and listen me out. I have a close friend in Liverpool and she is beautiful, guaranteed to make the finals in your book but maybe held back by her over pert ass, to put it kindly. She stole all my boyfriends but I didn’t mind since I had my pick. She is having rough time holding a job down and I suspect it a good old fashioned Klyne problem.”

“Well, can’t you speak to her and put her straight?”

“I have but she won’t listen. You know how best friends are. They only take notice from a stranger.”

“So, you want me to talk to her?”

“Well sort of. I want Biggles to take her on and you can keep an eye on her and straighten her out as you did with me. She has talent, I can assure you. Not just a dumb blonde.”

“Where is she going to stay?”

“Definitely not with us! I don’t need her getting her claws into you darling. No way!”

“OK, I’ll mention it to Biggles and see what he has to say.”

“Thanks darling and lay on the fact she could be twice as bad as me.”

“Not sure he would like that.”

“No, but put it to him straight and let the staff know. I think they were proud that they had some part in straightening me out. Now you switch your girls about, to visit clients, you could keep a close eye on her and change her ways.”

“I’ll do my best.”

“Thanks darling now please have your way with me, I’m in heaven and I need some passion!”   

 

Chapter 51

A week later, I had a surprise visit from Jadja. “Hello Renton, I was too busy last weekend to chat to you so I thought I’d pop in and see you. Do you want to whisk me off to the Ritz or are you going to offer me a coffee from your office machine?”

“Jadja, you look wonderful, quite glamorous.”

“Stop the sweet talk and answer my request Renton and stop eyeing me up like that!”

“A man can ogle if it’s put on a plate before him, can’t he?”

“I suppose so, but only you Renton. I allow you full view.”

“You’re not going to take your clothes of in my office are you? Shall I get the sponge?”

“Don’t be silly Renton. I’m a mother now and can’t be seen displaying all my wares for all to see. But you should see me now Renton, I’m in real good shape. Now where’s this special service that you are renowned for, where’s my cup of coffee?”

“I’ll do better than that for you, how about a glass of vintage champagne, I have here on ice and some blinis, with your favourite Beluga caviar.”

“I presume that’s some leftovers from one of your sales pitches Renton?”

“Shame to waste it though?”

“Go on then, spoil me and don’t go easy on the champers, I’m no longer pregnant.”

“There you go and plenty more where that came from. Now when am I going to see that little brat of yours?”

“You can go off people very quickly you know Renton. The sweet little Jurek, ‘J’ as in ‘YAM’ is being looked after by his Babcia, grandmother to you, in Krakow and Stasiek has sent me to arrange when you can visit. More champers please Renton, the girl’s thirsty!”

“How many time have I told you to sip it woman, not knock it back like you do vodka!”

“Don’t be a spoil sport Renton. Stasiek has arranged for the big white chief of planning to come with his wife, for the weekend, in a fortnight’s time. Can you make it and bring Klyne so the man has someone to drool over?”

“Yes dear Jadja, I can make it, unless that nasty thing with Lancaster or my brother flares up.”

“Awful business, why can’t you get a real nice family?”

“I have, the Partingers but the one I don’t want anything to do with, keeps popping up.”

“Renton, Stasiek says you have to do something special for these planning people.”

“OK, I’ll work on it. I’ll see if there is a spare Concorde not in use.”

“Don’t take the piss Renton. You know what Stasiek means.”

“Sorry Jadja, forgive me but any mention of that Gerald makes my blood boil. I’ll have the Rolls bring them to an airport at least but I’ll work on something. Now Jadja, I was going to get in touch with you about another completely different matter.”

“What, Renton missing Jadja’s pierogi?”

“Not only that but Elizabeth is practising on Eastern European foods and watch out, she could be giving you a run for your money Jadja.”

“Don’t care. Jadja don’t eat Polish food no more, too fattening, only lettuce like a rabbit.”

“Well, you look good on it, now let me explain. I have a friend, an artist like you, who is on his uppers, no sales and no commissions unlike you Jadja. I have asked him to make high class prints of your work that I’ve manage to get hold of.”

“Are they good or just photocopies?”

“No, they are good, proper screen prints and you would have difficulty telling the real thing apart, apart from one element.”

“And what is that, may I ask?”

“Rabbits, not the jumping variety but the highly stylised ones you put on each drawing.”

“How the hell have you managed to spot those Renton. Who told you about them? Stasiek?”

“No one Jadja. I happened to look at one of your paintings upside down and it jumped up at me so I checked out the others.”

“Now don’t go telling the world about that Renton. If I’m famous, I’d like to tell the fakes apart from my real ones.”

“No worries on that score Jadja. On the prints, I’ve had the rabbit air brushed out.”

“What’s the point of all this Renton?”

“Firstly, I want to help my friend and secondly, I want to make you famous by selling your pictures to a wider audience.”

“How much?”

“Now that’s business talk I like. Some of the larger prints and collages that my friend will make up will sell for a couple of thousand each, framed, if they are signed by the artist. I have over fifty of yours now.”

“How could you Renton? I haven’t painted fifty pictures in my life.”

“No but you’ve painted a lot of sketches and left them lying around. I have collected them up and as I said my artist friend is very good at making up collages.”

“What, you’ve picked up all those quick sketches I made for Donald, Stasiek and Amanda?”

“Plus, the ones you drew and painted for Yolanda at the fashion shows.”

“But they are just, how you say, piddly little things.”

“I will show you and you will be impressed.”

“OK, I will pay you half of what you sell Renton.”

“No, I don’t need half but we need to cover the costs of the artist and some profit, you can keep the rest.”

“The rest I will share with you Renton.”

“Just slow down Jadja! You will meet the artist to approve of his output, you will have to sign off each numbered piece of work and that will take some time and approve the framing. I will also arrange for an exhibition of your work and invite lots of people with money.”

“You say ‘money’ Renton but printing is costly. Who pays?”

“I have so far. Partridge has lent me some money to get the project off the ground, enough for something to show and you to approve.”

“How much you have you borrowed?”

“Five K.”

“I give you ten grand now and pay Partridge.”

“Slow down Jadja, drink some champagne and eat those blinis for god’s sake.”

“Jadja excited Renton.”

“I can tell Jadja, you are reverting to pidgin-English. Just slow down and let it all lap over you.”

“Sorry Renton, you are right. I have to think this through and treat it in business like fashion. When do we meet your friend and what is his name?”

“I’ll arrange a meeting when it suits him, that is, when he has perfected his technique. We called him Rupert at school.”

“Sensible name, not like Biggles and Partridge.”

“Yes, but his real name was plain John Bear.”

“Oh, I see, Rupert the Bear. Nothing funny in that.”

“I think you’re missing the English nuance there Jadja but never mind. I want you to search every draw, every file and pad you have ever owned for any sketches paintings you have ever done and hand them over to me. I will put them in Partridges bank vault for safe keeping. I reckon this is going to make you very rich Jadja and allow my friend Rupert a chance in the art world to make a reputation.”

“You are a darling Renton, always thinking about other people.”

“Be off with you and go through your office and take all the originals. Leave photocopies in their place. You will be more excited when you see the finished products and take some time out to paint seriously. Your output will sell. You have a growing reputation here. Speak to Olivia about it. She was the one who started this all off. Now shall I send for James to take you back to your office.”

“That’s the nicest way anybody has yet asked me to leave and I don’t feel hurt. Bye Renton, give me a hug and a kiss. A proper one not those poncy French kisses. I want to feel like a real woman.” 

Chapter 52

“Harry, do you know where RAF Benson is? Near you.” I asked a few days later, after meeting with Jadja.

“What, the place that is home to the Queen’s Flight?”

“Probably the same. I want you to hire a limo for me, to take the Chief Planning Officer and his wife there, in style, this Friday. Flying out to Krakow with Kyle.”

“I can do better than that, I’ll get Reg to do that taxi run. On the strength of our talks the other weekend he’s just bought himself a vintage Rolls in superb condition and is dying to show it off.”

“Great but it needs to run. I don’t want any no shows!”

“Understood Renton, I’ll follow behind, at a discreet distance in my Jag, just in case. OK, text me his Car reg and full name, address and I’ll send you both a pass for both cars to enter the airfield. Flight due out at two sharp.”

“Don’t worry Renton, well get them there somehow and on time. How did you swing this one?”

“It’s a Diplomatic flight to Russia and I persuaded someone that it needs re-fuelling at Krakow. I’m afraid it will have to be a cheapo back to Stansted on Sunday.”

“I’ll arrange to pick them up on return also Renton, just leave it to me.”

“Thanks Harry you’re a star. Has Reg been to his solicitors yet?”

“Don’t ask Renton, Reg is making a nuisance of himself in trying to get the whole lease thing speeded up. He’s even given me the keys to all of his tractors and he’s not going to lift another finger on the farm. Don’t worry, Stasiek has found me some guys who can go over there and make sure all is fine. He’s given up on dairy long time ago so no animals to tend. I’ll get them to do an inspection tour and note down what running repairs are needed on fences, gates and ditches. They tend to lapse into rack and ruin when the farm is on a downward slope.”

“Thanks Harry. Do you know the whereabouts of Stasiek? He’s got his mobile off as usual.”

“Just a minute, I’ll look at the diary. I like to keep track on all of you just in case. Yes, I’ve got him down at Donald’s today.”

“Thanks Harry, I need to get in touch.” I immediately rang Donald’s office and asked to be put through to Stasiek. 

“Hi Renton, Stasiek is on the other phone, will be with you in a minute.”

“Jadja, what are you doing there? I thought you were in Krakow?”

“Should have been but will go out with Stasiek tomorrow. I shouldn’t tell you this, but don’t be cross with me. I was so excited when I left you that I had to see Rupert. Biggles told me where he lived so I got James to take me over. I hope you don’t mind Renton but I was so curious to see what he was up to with my work.”

“Well, he didn’t get in touch with me Jadja. I presume you swore him to secrecy?”

“I did darling because I didn’t want to upset you. His work is impressive and I like him but his workshop is a bit restrictive. I’ve got Donald to make space for him over here so he has more room and I can look over his shoulder now and again.”

“Did he agree?”

“Couldn’t afford not to Renton darling. I’m funding it and all the materials and equipment. The office staff are going through all their files, where I’ve had an input and picking out all my sketches and drawings for him. Don’t worry, they are cross referencing them on the back and dating them approximately. These will go down to Rupert and he can do something with them.”

“OK Jadja that’s fine, I’ll leave you to run with that. I’m glad it’s worked out for you.”

“No Renton, you can’t just leave me yet. You said you would organise an exhibition and Rupert wants to know how many print runs to make and only you can help and advise.”

“Sorry Jadja but I’m no expert on this. Ask Olivia, she can help you and give you some pointers. At least she has some contacts in that area.”

“You’re a sweetie darling, I knew you would help. I shall allocate you a nice commission on the sales.”

“No need for that Jadja. I’ve only put up the idea and tested the water.”

“You’ve done more than that darling. You invested in Rupert and me, and I would like to be generous. I shall allocate a royalty to both of you on the sales. Here’s Stasiek.”

“Hi Renton what have you done to Jadja? She’s on a high. You been feeding her on drugs or something? I know Renton, only joking, she is very grateful to you for this….”

“Sorry to break in Stasiek but I have to run. The visit has been set up and I’ll send you the details of the flight. Can you arrange transport and accommodation for the four of us for two nights? The return flight is in the afternoon, Sunday. Gail will send you all the details. Just make sure that the guy starts to believe that basements are the thing of the future.”

   “No worries there. He will see plenty and in all stages. Jadja will show his wife and Klyne the sights and you can join me with some smooth talking. See you later Renton.”

“Renton, It’s Flash.”

“Hi Flash is that guitar music getting to you yet?”

“A bit Renton, I must admit but the brat practises all the time and he’s getting quite good, I think. We bought him some good earphones so we can’t track his progress so easily, these days. I have got him a good teacher as you suggested. Thanks for all that Renton, now the disagreeable bit. Sir Effing Gerald called.”

“What did he want?”

“Well, he wanted to know if you had set the Inland Revenue on him because he’s had a visit and they threatened him with prison, if he didn’t come clean, on a sum of Ten Million that they said he had secreted somewhere. He obviously denies all knowledge of it. They are coming back tomorrow to interview him again and if he doesn’t come clean then they are going to put him in custody for nonpayment of taxes.”

“What did you say Flash?”

“Hold on Renton, the toad and rat began by saying he had the custody of Grandpa’s stamp collection and it had been given to you in his will. That’s how he started and wanted to know if you were still interested in stamp collecting. This was the lead-in to the other questions and I managed to prise the rest out of him. He was in quite a state.”

“The toe-rag! I hope you didn’t give him any sympathy Flash.”

“I told him that you were too busy earning money to save the family, to worry about his welfare. Secondly, that if he had touched or sold any of the collection then I would personally come down to London and smash his face in.”

“Bit drastic Flash.”

“Not drastic enough Renton. What have we done to deserve a brother like that? I managed to get out of the devious sod, that our family solicitor has the collection in a bank vault somewhere and it needs your signature to release the stuff. He wanted me, to persuade you, to sign for it so he could hand it over to you, ha ha!”

“Flash, does our solicitor control the safe deposit boxes for the family?”

“I think he does. He is keeping some heirlooms in them for us, as safe keeping. Not sure what. I haven’t really enquired, why do you ask?”

“Well, if I had some valuable things, like paintings, all boxed and packaged up, would he arrange to put them in a vault for me?”

“You devious bugger Renton. I know where this is leading to. You reckon our Gerald has stashed away the ten million in the vaults, assisted ably by our solicitors. I think you should go and see them immediately, on the excuse you want to check on the movement of traffic, to and from the vaults and who has ordered the transactions. Crafty sod, I didn’t think it would be so simple to stash away the money so easily without effective trace.”

“You are a jump ahead of me there but you’re right I shall go and see them straight away, on the excuse of the stamps. I shall tell them a porky that I’m thinking of handing them over to Gerald and that will get the conversation on the right track. Now does your lad collect stamps?”

“Renton, we are not talking about ordinary stamps here. If Grandpa collected them, then they must be worth a fortune. Get a dealer to value them for you. I bet you a fiver that they will be worth over a million quid. Don’t forget he put them there before the war for a start and he wouldn’t be sticking them into stamp albums as we used to do. Now do you know why the Tax man is so interested in Gerald? I thought your Company took over all the debts and things?”

“Well to tell you the truth, I put them onto him to flush out the ten million that was missing. He probably owes some personal taxes on the huge salaries they paid themselves but don’t tell him that.”

“I won’t divulge anything Renton. I hope they lock him up and chuck him out of his Law practise.”

“Don’t be too hard on him Flash. I just look on him as a stranger who happens to cross swords with us.”

“You know where all this started don’t you Renton? He was the first, and as a son, they were delighted to have someone take the line forward, even though he’s not married and gay to boot.”

“I didn’t know that Flash. I thought he was just separated and had some kids somewhere.”

“No way Renton, that’s just a sad tale. After that, our silly cow of a mother wanted daughters and abandoned us, especially you. We got some modicum of decency but you arrived at the wrong time when daddykins opted to be Knighted at all cost, with the help of Gerald, who had pipped him to the post.”

“Well, I survived quite well and would have prospered well, thank you, if the buggers hadn’t turned up and queried my pitch, in fact all of our pitches.”

“Hey Renton, we are all ever so grateful for what you are doing. I think all of us were resigned to the fact that we would be ostracised and black balled if it had come to bankruptcy and all of those influential people, especially old family friends, robbed of their investments.”

“OK Flash, don’t go on. We are all in the same boat and I didn’t want people to queer my pitch either and to be involved in a scandal. I’ll go and contact our solicitors for an urgent appointment and call a friend for advice. Bye.”

“Renton, its Crabby, I have some good news for you. We acted on your information and managed to get Gerald to divulge were the millions are hidden. A slight problem, your kind dear brother has again implicated you and the rest of your brood, by dividing and secreting the money in all your personal bank vaults, set up by your grandfather. That’s why your solicitor was playing his delay tactics in seeing you because he was following our instructions. We have checked the contents of each vault and sure enough the money was there, plus a lot of other interesting stuff, all kosher, left to you by your generous and wise Grandfather. A quick guess would make you all millionaires if you converted the contents, apart from Gerald who has sold his off, some time ago.”

“Why would he divide the money?

“Two reasons I believe.  One that he could divide the blame if the shit hit the fan, like now and the second is more concerning. Since he was the supposed benefactor to his brothers with his generous gifts, he thought it would give him free access to your vaults, when he made his deposits. That would allow him, or so he thought, to help himself to the treasures Grandfather left you and your brothers.”

“The crafty sod.”

“The scoundrel thought he would have free access but the solicitors were suspicious and would only allow him to take stuff out if it was counter signed by his brothers. That suddenly left him in a great dilemma since he was assured he would have easy access to his millions, if he wanted the money. I presume that’s why he got in touch with your brother Gordon to try and wangle a signature out of him first and for him to get one from you. He will probably be in touch with the others soon.”

“What I don’t understand Crabby, is why Grandfather was so generous with us?”

“Not generosity old boy but a crafty method of escaping inheritance tax. He converted his cash into easily convertible hard goods such as jewellery, stamps as in your case, bullion, to escape the dreaded inheritance tax.  It would also rise in value in time unlike cash. I must advise you not to go off and suddenly convert your treasures before consulting with the Tax people. I don’t know the laws fully relating to that but since this has blown up don’t do anything drastic.”

“Thanks for the advice Crabby, anything I should do in the meantime?”

“No, just sit on your hands. I have the feeling that the Inland Revenue might just be a little lenient and you might just see some of the money. Don’t be too hopeful but I’ve put a good word in for you.” 

“Any news on the Lancaster front?”

“We are tracking him openly and he is fuming. My people have sent him an outrageous estimate for unpaid taxes and would you believe it, he wants to negotiate which tells me that he is guilty but not sure by how much. We are still tracking you Renton, enjoy your flight to Krakow and don’t abuse your contacts there too far. No more RAF Benson. We’ll let this one pass. Must go and keep your nose clean.” 

Chapter 53

 

 “Renton, we’ve been in touch with Gail and she assured us that you will help and sort us out.”

“Yes Mr. Worthington, Gail informed me you had an issue.”

“Call me Ted please, it’s just that the Polish workmen, who have been ever so helpful said the apartment next door is already sold.”

“I’m sorry Ted, can you just clarify the issue for me. I have been rather busy lately on some family matters.”

“Sorry Renton, family matters come first, yes Enid would like to move into the apartment next door.”

“Have you a problem with the one you’re in?”

“No Renton, we are very happy but Enid being curious or downright nosey, accepted the nice Polish workers offer of having a look around the apartment they were working on. It’s just opposite ours. Well, she just fell in love with the view and wants to move next door. See what you can do Renton, just to please her.”

“I presume you would like me to sell your apartment Ted?”

“Hell no Renton, no hurry on that, only if you want or makes it easier for you. We can afford another apartment and the kids can use our old one. Renton we trust you to do the best for us.”

“Thanks for the confidence you have in me Ted, the people buying the place are doing it for an investment. Maybe I can interest them in something else.”

“Renton do what ever you can to keep Enid happy. Don’t even consider the cost, I can afford it.”

“I’ll try my best. I presume Enid has viewed the new apartment? Are there any changes she would like?”

“Renton, it’s perfect. Just move those Komorowska’s paintings and that’s all. By the way, if another painting comes up for sale let me know. It’s Enid’s birthday next month. Another thing, we understand that you had a spell in the City. We have lots of money to invest and we want to do it wisely. Can you suggest a reliable broker or somewhere where we can put it safely?”

“Ted I wasn’t into that side of things, it was more into fluctuations in exchange rates and share prices and you don’t want to risk your money that way.”

“That sound like sound advice Renton. A guy called Lancaster, Lord Lancaster as he introduced himself to us. He swindled us out of a fortune. I didn’t think I was naïve but we got stung badly.”

“Ted, I’d like you to do something for me on that front. I’ve had a run in with Lancaster. Could you possibly detail your experience for me?”

“Certainly Renton, I’m not proud of it but I expected a lot more from a Lord, after all, the Queen herself vetted him.”

“Sorry to disappoint you further Ted, but Lancaster never got his peerage and never will. How much did you lose out to Lancaster if I may be so bold?”

“It’s embarrassing really, but he took us for over seven million and we thought he was such a charming man. Has he stung you Renton?”

“Well not yet Ted, I managed to fend him off but I have instigated a high level investigation into his activities. One question, have you got any skeletons in the cupboard that you wouldn’t like to be broadcast?”

“Why do you ask Renton?”

“Just that if I put your case to higher authorities then all could be revealed.”

“I understand Renton and since the Lancaster case all my house is in order. I made sure so that I wouldn’t be blackmailed again.”

“I’ll introduce you to a reputable banker, who will assure you, advise you wisely. Since it’s an Investment Bank, they set minimum funds.”

“I understand clearly Renton and our investment would be in the millions so no worries on that score. Please contact me or my secretary with all the details and I shall be eternally grateful. It’s nice doing business with you again.”

“Thanks Ted and ensure you send me your details of the Lancaster affair.” 

“Renton, Crabby again, I want to know why all the shit in the world always lands on your young shoulders? My boys have looked into the Ted Worthington affair and they are not very happy with the legalities. It seems that our friend Mr. Lancaster is preying on the vulnerable and taking them the cleaners. I’d like to know where he’s getting his info on these people. There must be a leak in some high-level department. I’ll get someone onto it right away. Now to update you on the scoundrel himself, he is nicely ensconced in a luxury villa on Malta and sitting pretty or so he thinks. I am just about to send him a memo to double his Tax evasion total and hitting him for blackmail on a number of fronts and seeing how he reacts. It’s amazing how all this shit seems to surround you Renton. I’ve always said that you should have joined us and helped us shovel the stuff. By the way, I’ve asked the Revenue to look kindly on your ten million since you’ve put us onto Lancaster where we have hit pay dirt, big time. Tell the Worthington’s that they may see some compensation coming their way. Now keep your nose clean and behave lad because my guys are watching your every move since you are involved!”

 

Chapter 54

   

“Hi Renton, how did you get on in Krakow?”

“Superb Partridge; should have come. Stasiek and Jadja surpassed themselves. Far outclassed me and my style.”

“That must have been something, tell uncle Partridge all then!”

“They leased an ancient house in the centre, all huge rooms, vaulted ceilings, exposed timber and huge fireplaces. Within a week they converted it into a Palace fit for a…..”

“Renton or the Queen eh?”

“Something like that Partridge. All mod cons but full of mock antiques, four posters and ancient frescos painted by Jadja the day before we arrived. Smokey wood fires hid the smell of the fresh paint and new wood. Four bedrooms so you could have come, all en suite, huge hall for lounging in, only a pack of scavenging dogs missing.”

“I suppose you cooked on open fires, roasting oxen and wild boars?”

“Not quite, but there was a state of art kitchen in the basement, note basement, that had the works.”

“This must have cost a bomb Renton.”

“Apparently not, only the appliances and materials. Stasiek’s craftsman did it all, fitted everything in. It all looked splendid.”

“And this was all for your visit?”

“I did think so but Stasiek is going to use it as his shop window to show the punters in Poland what he can do for them.”

“Did he have time to show you any basements?”

“Did we see basements? We saw every basement type there is and in every state of construction. Jadja made up a superb folder of photographs for his Lordship to ponder over at home.”

“OK, how did you entertain them?”

“We gave them the option each lunch time and night to either go out or stay in their own opulent surroundings. They of course chose to go out! Joking!”

“I presume Jadja laid on some thing special for them.”

“More than special, she arranged cooks and servants, all in local costume and strolling minstrels to entertain us at each meal, dancers at dinner and all that.”

“Wasn’t that all a bit OTT old chap. Surely the guy smelt a rat and a massive dose of entrapment?”

“We constantly played it down, explaining that it was a show place and that we were the first guests, road testing the place so to speak. Jadja even produced a questionnaire for them to fill in and asked them to be super critical, so they felt more as hotel inspectors than guests.”

“Clever sod! I presume that the planning permission will be a formality then?”

“I wouldn’t say that, but it certainly oiled the wheels and dissipated the instant refusal we would have expected.”

“Anyway, I didn’t call for you to gloat about the wonderful time you had in Krakow. I have news to impart to you dear boy. The officious Taxman called, with a team and went through the accounts for Manor Investments.”

“I didn’t think we had any?”

“We didn’t but Sherlock here constructed some at the point of takeover, plus amendments as new bits unearthed themselves. They were not amused that your dear brother was so amiss.”

“Did they unearth anything?”

“Nothing they shouldn’t have but they let slip that the ten million or at least most of it was going to be returned to us. Now that’s good news Renton?”

“What about tax evasion and things?”

“Oh yes, they said that they were going to post tax claims to your dear brother, to his Lordship and Ladyship for the huge salaries they drew. The brothers, since they weren’t paid a bent farthing would be excluded.”

“But in the accounts, if I’m not mistaken, there are records of substantial payments to us?”

“There are but you didn’t receive a bean dear fellow. It was all stashed away in an account in the Caymens, which we recovered, if you remember, so you and nice brothers are not liable and escape a term at Her Majesty’s pleasure.”

“Any mention of Crabby or support from on high?”

“Sorry Renton, your influential friends were not on their remit.”

“Now Partridge, walk me through our accounts as if I was a child. I want to see where the land lies at this moment in time.”

“Right then, we pinched all the sweeties from your big bad brother and horrid parents who beat you and locked you in a cage and you set up a shoppie to sell them on at a profit.”

“Get on with it Partridge!”

“You wanted it simple Renton! The value of the sales of property, any unsold estate, your substantial commissions and the current value of the Agency business if we were to sell it and not forgetting the monies recovered plus, say, half of the ten million stashed away by Gerald, we are not a mile away from the hundred mill. that was the outstanding investment.”

“What about the stamp collection?”

“Ah yes, your brothers contacted me, Patrick as spokesman and they want their stashes in the vaults to be part of their contribution to this debacle.”

“Oh, I couldn’t take their inheritance, no way!”

“They insist my boy and dad says you should be gracious and accept the crumbs. The crumbs, by the way, have been grossly undervalued by the Death Duty people who are clambering for their share. I’ve had the lot valued by experts who reckon, that at auction, you should collect over four million, after commissions and what the nice Chancellor in number eleven will take. By the way, you owe Flash a fiver on the bet you had Renton.”

“Partridge, does this mean that the whole affair is almost drawing to a conclusion?”

“The simple answer is ‘yes’ Renton, you are out of the woods, over the threshold, crossed the watershed. We have enough funds to clear the debt if it’s called in. Father is not very happy because he can’t watch us all work our socks off any longer to recover the debt. He’s never seen so much activity to make good money in a legitimate way. It seems we all pulled together in our own little way to make our contributions.”

“I’m not sure I can ever repay my debt to you all?”

“No need Renton, you lead and we mortals will follow. Dad says we should find another huge debt problem to work on, to keep the momentum going. I think he is impressed. He wants to write it up as an example of fortitude for one of his boring Journals.”

“How can I thank him Partridge?”

“Just stay good friends Renton and part of the family. Now I think you should start drawing a salary, worthy of your position and secondly you should move into one of your expensive garrets with that gorgeous girl of yours. Mother is suffocating, I know. Even consider making an honest woman of that girl of yours.”

“All far too drastic Partridge. You’re getting soft in the head. That tocking on the head with a tennis table bat at school, has obviously addled your brains. I should have used a cricket bat.”

“Those were the days Renton, me and thee conspiring to take on the immediate World and winning. I missed you when you went up. Life lost its spring but you left a good legacy there. The abuse of corporal punishment stopped for a start and you instigated a regime of responsibility that started early in the school. The lads were grateful to you if only they knew it.”

“This reminiscing is not getting us anywhere Partridge.”

“Yes, but you have to remember where we started Renton and how much we have achieved in our short lives. Have you any thoughts about the future? Anything you want to do?”

“Partridge, I haven’t given it a thought. Nose to the grindstone all the time, with a bit of fun on the way. I suppose I want to finish my travels that I started before all this blew up in my face.”

“Renton, you have an enviable team behind you so don’t just wander off into the sunset and leave us. We take our cue from you, all of us.”

“And you let me do the dirty work for you.”

“But that’s what you’re there for my boy. Someone has to and with your ability it was all easy peasy. All I’d like from you Renton is to loosen up now and organise some more fun for us all, not that you haven’t done that but life is a ball around you. The business is growing at full steam and through its own momentum. I’ve had a few more interested parties that want to sell out to us or join us. They all want part of the Renton action.”

“You’re getting sentimental Partridge. I’ll have to take you in hand again.”

“Please, please do Sir, I need correction I do Sir!”

“Stop it Partridge or I’ll take away your comforter blanket again. Are you coming for dinner tonight?”

“Probably not, putting on too much weight with that Polish cuisine that mum keeps dishing up for you. Helena my new love insists that I should book something at the Globe for us. I might do that for tonight. The weather is clement. Bye Renton. Don’t mope or do anything drastic.”

I was up at daybreak for my early morning run. The air was still and fresh as I looked at the wisps of mist rising above the gardens opposite. Some unknown impulse saw me turn left rather than right and I ran an easy stride, not certain where this might lead. Hardly a car about to pollute the atmosphere at this time and all felt good. I ran for a mile or so and decided to change direction towards Hyde Park, to get off the unforgiving hard pavements. Ahead was a controlled crossing and a dark blue Jag slowed for the Red lights alongside me. I turned right to cross the road, on the zebra stripes and nodded a ‘Thank you’ to the driver who I suddenly recognised as Gerald. I raised my hand in salute of acknowledgement when the engine gave off a piercing scream and my lower legs caught fire. I soared gracefully over the bonnet, towards the windscreen and witnessed an evil grin on Sir Gerald’s face. Next to him I noted, his father, Lord Renton was raising his arms in alarm. As quickly as the pain escalated, it dissipated, to be replaced by a brilliant white light that went on for ever and ever and ever and ever, peace.

The Metropolitan Police appealed for witnesses to no avail.

The Evening Standard reported a massive turnout of mourners at the funeral service, held at St. Mary’s, with people crowded in the aisles and spilling out onto the pavement.

A few days later, a helicopter, on a routine flight, flew over Oxfordshire and ashes were scattered from a high.

KONIEC