A Very Victorian Education Chapter 19 plus 1 illustration

Below is latest – and longest- chapter of A Very Victorian Education and once more I apologise for the long delay in posting. For those who are following the travails of our hero/victim I’m sure it is very frustrating to have to wait so long to discover what Lady Charlotte and her coterie of friends, servants, associates and like- minded ladies have in store for the poor boy.

As usual when I started this chapter I had expected it to progress in a certain way but to paraphrase/mangle Robert Burns – The best laid plans of Carrie often go awry.  Lady Charlotte’s Victorian London is a far different place and things are not only done differently there but also at a more sedate pace- the last ten chapters (maybe more) have taken place in just one day.  So I hope readers will bear with Lady Charlotte, her plans for Aubrey may take longer to evolve than we would like but that is her ladyship’s prerogative and who am I to argue?

Also, as always my sincerest thanks to those readers who were kind enough to comment and also those who indicated their support by ticking the ‘More’ box. It is this support that encourages me to continue and without it would have stopped a long time ago. Writing this is very time consuming and I would like to post chapters faster but as you all know life can be messy and we all seem to be time poor these days- so thank you for your patience.

Hopefully you will enjoy this chapter and as always any comments negative or positive are welcomed. If I’ve made errors or inconsistencies let me know, I think I got all the typos/grammatical errors but I cannot be certain as I have only re-read it once, these things can be irksome- so apologies in advance.

Ok that’s it.

Take care.

Carrie

Ps I can’t remember if I previously published the illustration at the top of the blog so if anyone remembers let me know and it won’t appear again. It’s an old one and, annoyingly, also contains a spelling error (I don’t have the time to correct it) hopefully it won’t spoil it for you.

A   Very Victorian Education

Chapter 19

By

CarrieP

 The imposing and impeccably dressed matron with her two young charges in tow emerged from London’s most exclusive corsetry emporium into the late afternoon sunlight. The attractive middle aged woman stopped momentarily and once more inspected her youthful companions. In a matter of seconds her experienced eyes scrutinised each of them closely like a regimental sergeant-major of the Household Cavalry before the Trooping of the Colour, removing a stray hair from one and a miniscule piece of white fluff from the skirt of the other and after a final inspection she considered them presentable enough to proceed.

“Come along girls” Lady Charlotte de Winter issued the order in a sharp and perfunctory tone as she moved away from the premises with a graceful swish of skirts.

Both figures followed silently and somewhat sullenly, quickening their step to fall in beside her.

“Roberta, shoulders back. You’re a lady not a chimney sweep or a hod-carrier.” Lady Charlotte chided the taller of the two before turning to the other adding “And Aubrey please hold your head up. I don’t want you walking into a lamp post.”

Like all well dressed ladies the trio drew admiring glances from passers-by, gentlemen raised their hats and ladies nodded discreetly conveying their approval or perhaps even envy of the fashionable yet exquisitely refined attire of the threesome. A closer inspection would have revealed the youngest and prettier of the three appeared quite forlorn. Of course these passers-by could not possibly have known the reason just why this attractive young woman was so downcast. If told the real cause behind Lady Charlotte’s young companion cheerless demeanour they would have been incredulous for the charming and beautifully dressed girl was indeed a young man and none other than the son of her dearest friend Maude St Clair.

It would have been understandable to assume that the threat of exposure as a male would have been the reason for his worried expression but such was his proficiency at feminine deportment this was not his primary concern. To his eternal shame he was acutely aware of this fact and even worse it was quite obvious that he was more feminine than Roberta Lady Charlotte’s other youthful companion or for that matter several other girls he had recently come into contact with.  No, the reason for his anxiety was even more disturbing as he had been told he was to be involved in a nefarious scheme to incarcerate another young man – the son of Lady Charlotte’s new friend, Magdalena the Countess Uttendorf, in an all female finishing school- and worryingly Lady Charlotte had made a veiled threat to enrol him in the same establishment. There was nothing he could do to save this youth from his fate and even if he tried he would feel the full force of Lady Charlotte’s anger so he had little choice but to comply. To avoid a similar fate he would have to convince her that her plan to instil feminine values and ideals in him was a success and as she predicted being dressed as a girl was proving to be character forming.

 The idea of being at the mercy of a school full of girls and their teachers filled him with dread, the horror of confinement in such an establishment would hold for any young man was beyond human comprehension. As a scion of wealthy and influential family he himself had gone to a prestigious boarding school and knew what dreadful places they were but at least that was a boys’ school where the only females were domestic servants and of course the terrifying Matron with her nurse assistant. It was an establishment where the weak were quickly identified and dominated by older boys. Luckily he escaped the worst excesses of this crude system but not without some scars both physical and mental. With these experiences still fresh in his memory he shuddered to think what would happen to a boy in a finishing school for young women where he would be treated like a girl. Any boy would be subjected to unimaginable forms of humiliation with no hope of escape. The terrors of a boys’ school would be nothing next to the unimaginable torment of incarceration in such an institution. It would be the ninth circle of Hell.

A shiver went down his spine at the thought. Of course he had undergone the most degrading and mortifying treatment at the hands of Lady Charlotte – his current attire and demeanour were testament to her appalling scheme to subjugate and feminise him. But at least his torture was known to a relatively few people, Lady Charlotte and her servants, this young man would be subject to the mockery and ridicule of  several dozen girls as well as their teachers and servants. The young man’s life would be ruined, the girls and their mothers would ensure London society would hear of his humiliation. The indignity would follow him throughout his life. At least the youth had the safety of the Continent to flee to when he finally gained his release surely his disgrace would not follow him to Germany.

 A vision suddenly appeared in his mind’s eye of himself being delivered to such a hideous institute, the crunch of the carriage wheels along the long gravel approach to an austere gothic building where on the steps to the entrance stood the headmistress together with several teachers and prefects, their smiles betraying the glee of another male victim arriving for feminisation.

Yet another shiver went down his spine.

The fragile masculinity that he was still desperately clinging onto would surely not survive prolonged confinement in such a horrible place. Humiliating as Lady Charlotte’s regimen was, and it was unspeakable humiliating, a girls finishing school would be infinitely worse as he would be at the mercy of dozens of women whose sole purpose would be to feminise him completely. After all, the Countess had told Lady Charlotte that the school had a one hundred percent success rate in achieving this dastardly objective. It was now imperative  he would have to persuade her that he could benefit more from her instruction in feminine behaviour than this dreadful school.

As these thoughts were going through his head Lady Charlotte was observing him from the corner of her eye. His anxious expression did not go unnoticed, she could practically see the wheels turning inside his head.

How wonderful! she purred contentedly to herself the poor darling’s little male brain is in complete turmoil. He was already under my thumb but now that he thinks I may enrol him with the Countess’s son in the girls finishing school he will redouble his efforts to ensure he portrays himself as the girl I want him to be.  He will do anything to please me.

Roberta also noticed Aubrey was paler and more fretful  than usual and despite her capitulation to Lady Charlotte and her mother in the matter of adhering to social convention and dressing in appropriate female clothing she was determined to remain close to Aubrey.

I didn’t surrender the freedom of wearing trousers and other male garb to have Lady Charlotte snatch that lovely creature away from me. she complained silently, her unfamiliar cumbersome and bulky skirts moving around her legs as she strode gauchely in her two inch heels alongside the two elegant figures.

 The only reason I agreed to wear these ridiculous clothes was to get close to Aubrey she bristled to herself Lady at Charlotte’s proposal to remove the object of her affections, I cannot allow her to be dispatched to that school.

Roberta used the fifteen minute walk to Lady Charlotte’s home to ingratiate herself to her godmother making small talk about Madame Monique’s emporium and how the experience was not as daunting or as bad as she would have imagined and suggesting that Aubrey was a good influence on her. Lady Charlotte smiled innocently as she listened patiently to Roberta’s lies.

 Splendid! she thought Now both of them are unsettled and quite perturbed. I could not have asked for more. What a delightful unintended consequence of encountering the Countess.

Aubrey, preoccupied with his immediate future remained quiet during this time only breaking his silence when forced to answer a question by Lady Charlotte or a comment from Roberta.

“Ah, home at last.” Lady Charlotte said breezily coming to a halt at the steps to her house and as the trio ascended the Roberta almost tripped .

“You have to lift your skirts.” Aubrey said helpfully holding out his hand to steady her and lifting his own skirts he displayed the correct technique. “Like this.”

Lady Charlotte smiled at her protégé as she instructed a girl in feminine comportment, Aubrey caught her eye and the irony was not lost on him either.

Without having to ring the bell the door opened as if by magic, Lady Charlotte led the way followed by Aubrey and Roberta.

“Your ladyship.” Miss Bristlestrap Lady Charlotte’s housekeeper greeted her mistress with a bobbed curtsy.

Sarah the housemaid who opened the door also curtsied but stayed silent regarding Aubrey with a mischievous half smile. As the mistress of the house and her housekeeper engaged in conversation about domestic matters Sarah closed the door and moved closer to Aubrey.

“So nice to see you so soon…”she said with a sly smile “…Miss Aubrey.” and immediately turning to Roberta “And you too Miss Roberta. I barely recognised you from our last meeting in the park, I hope you don’t mind me saying so but you do look very pretty.”

Roberta, not having dressed in such feminine clothes for over two years was unused to hearing such compliments, blushed slightly.

“Such a beautiful gown.” Sarah continued as Lady Charlotte and Miss Bristlestrap continued their conversation out of earshot “The colour suits your complexion and compliments your figure.”

Roberta reddened even more and Aubrey noticed her becoming somewhat agitated.

“It must be the influence of Master…” Sarah persisted and seeing Aubrey’s startled face immediately smiled and corrected herself “Miss.. I mean Miss Aubrey. She has such wonderful dress sense.”

Roberta looked at Aubrey with a look of puzzlement and he was unsure if it was because of Sarah’s undoubted deliberate use of the word ‘Master’ or Roberta’s sudden loss of self-confidence due to her envelopment in soft yet constricting female garments.

“What do you mean girl when you…”Roberta asked the maid but was interrupted by Lady Charlotte.

“We will have a light supper before retiring.” Lady Charlotte informed her two charges.

“Good I’m famished.” Roberta replied.

“Please Roberta.” Lady Charlotte chided her goddaughter “You are not with those awful friends of yours now. My home is not one of your student hostelries or inns. Social etiquette demands certain standards. You will change and comport yourself like the lady you are. Now come along I have a gown in mind that will suit you perfectly.”

“But I just put this…” Robert protested, gesturing with a sour face  to her dress “ this..this.. thing on only a few hours ago.”

“Oh dear. You have forgotten so much about what it means to be a lady.” Lady Charlotte sighed as she turned to the feminised young man “You see Aubrey this is what becomes of girls who are allowed too much freedom and stray from the influence of their mothers. Please inform Roberta why we dress for dinner.”

“In polite society” Aubrey began a well rehearsed explanation, one which he had been forced to learn, sometimes being punished by the hairbrush or cane for not reciting it correctly or with enough enthusiasm “a lady or girl cannot be considered worthy of the name or her position in society unless she dresses appropriately for every social occasion. A morning gown for the period before luncheon, a walking outfit if one decides to promenade during the day, an afternoon or tea gown if one is entertaining and of course an evening gown for dinner or other social gatherings. Of course a change of underwear including corsetry may also be…”

“Yes..yes…yes.” Roberta blurted in an exasperated voice “I’d almost forgotten why I escaped from this ridiculous dressing-up charade.”

“That may well have been the case. “ Lady Charlotte dismissed her outburst “But, just like dear Aubrey, you are now under my authority and will follow social convention. Or perhaps you would prefer if Miss Bristlestrap or Alice who has acted as Aubrey’s Governess to instruct you?”

Roberta looked first at Miss Bristlestrap and then to Aubrey and although his face did not move a muscle his eyes told her this would not be a good idea.

“No.” Roberta stated firmly in an attempt to regain a semblance of dignity.

“A very wise decision.” Lady Charlotte said smiling as she moved with a rustle of petticoats to the wide staircase and calling to her two young companions like well trained lap dogs “Now come along girls we have a lot to do before dinner.”

Aubrey could see Roberta cringe and remembered a time when he too had the same reaction but now instead of being insulted by this sobriquet he recognised it as a sign of Lady Charlotte’s good mood and the last thing he wanted was to upset her. Naturally he felt a twinge of guilt at his lack of embarrassment at being referred to as a girl but, as experience had taught him, this was not enough to protest or become angry. There was no point he would only lose such a confrontation, after all he had more pressing things on his mind. With the threat of being sent to that dreadful school still hanging over him he hoped Lady Charlotte noticed this as an example of how much he had progressed  in his acceptance of his new role. Of course he still retained a sense of his masculinity albeit a much weaker one and getting weaker by the week, months of being dressed and trained as a girl had eroded his male personality much in the way water shapes and moulds rocks and stones over time. His male traits and behaviour was now replaced with the poise, grace and elegance of a young woman.

“Don’t forget to lift your skirts.” Aubrey reminded Roberta as they approached the stairs.

Roberta, a look of concentration on her face nodded her appreciation and copied the young man’s natural action as he raised his skirt and petticoats and began to climb the stairs. He heard her give a barely audible sigh of relief as she completed the exercise without incident. Aubrey almost smiled at the bitter irony of him advising a girl on how to perform such a quintessentially feminine manoeuvre.

Aubrey watched as Lady Charlotte ascended the stairs before them and was struck by the ease at which she gracefully negotiated each step, her hips swaying gently under the heavy satin of her gown. It was a sight to behold and the masculinity he had suppressed stirred and grew under his silk and taffeta petticoats. It was times like these he was almost grateful for the bulky clothes of a girl and  hoped that Roberta did not notice the slight flush in his cheeks.

“Keep your mind on the steps in front of you girls.” Lady Charlotte said continuing the ascent without turning her head.

Aubrey blush deepened.

How could she know? It’s as if she can read my mind. He cursed himself for his indiscretion and hoped his redness would have disappeared before they reached their destination. Of course in his embarrassment he failed to notice the large mirror in which Lady Charlotte had spotted his lingering look at her derriere. For her part she smiled to herself after all what woman, even a lady of the highest social standing like herself, does not enjoy the attentions of a younger man albeit a feminised one.

Particularly a feminised one she thought, reflecting on Aubrey’s progress as she reached the top of the stairs and glided towards her bedroom. A feminised male, as I have demonstrated, can be made to do anything I require and is the perfect companion. Like a lady’s maid every woman should have their very own feminised male.

She did not have to look around to see where her two reluctant guests were as she could hear the swishing of two sets of skirts and petticoats close behind.

What a delightful sound. she thought smiling to herself as the door opened as she approached it.

Aubrey and Roberta like two obedient and well trained poodles followed her. directly to the large  bed where a number of gowns were laid out. The door closed behind them.

“Good evening Miss Aubrey.” A voice from  over his shoulder called out and he felt a slight queasiness in his stomach.

Alice his Governess who also acted as his lady’s maid joined her mistress at the bed.

“Roberta, this is Miss Alice who has been acting as Aubrey’s Governess.” Lady Charlotte informed her “She will assist both of you to dress for the evening.”

A day previously, Roberta dressed in male clothing and possessing all the hauteur of that sex, would have acknowledged Alice’s presence with a cursory perhaps even dismissive nod of her head after all a Governess was merely an elevated servant and had no control over her. Now however her unfamiliar female clothes and her submission albeit willingly to Lady Charlotte’s authority had combined to greatly undermine her confidence and for the first time in several years she felt a sense of insecurity. It was a most disconcerting sensation for such an independent woman and she did not like it.  The thought suddenly struck Roberta that Lady Charlotte may be trying to test her. She gathered her thoughts and decided she would have to demonstrate to her that wearing these ridiculous and frivolous clothes did not in any way diminish her own forceful personality. Otherwise Lady Charlotte would no doubt subjugate and transform her into a compliant and obedient member of the female sex, which was exactly what she was trying to leave behind. It was obvious what her godmother wanted, a girl that would not only obey her mother but any female authority figure  like Lady Charlotte, a girl that would submit to the wisdom, rules and authority of the established matriarchy- a girl just like Aubrey. Such a scenario was enough to focus Roberta’s mind and shake off her unwelcome and unfamiliar timidity.

“Good evening.” Roberta acknowledged the Governess with a cool detachment, deliberately not mentioning her name. Alice smiled, however Aubrey who knew her so well could see the annoyance in her eyes.

Lady Charlotte said something about accessories and moved to her dressing table Alice immediately joined her.

Thoughts began to flood Roberta’s mind as she watched both of them bust themselves at the dressing table.

It took too long to break away from the restrictive life that my mother had planned for me and I will not return to it under any circumstances. Governesses are for mere girls, ingénues. They force social strictures on their charges, infantilising them, making them dependent.  My own Governess was the same and I have no intention of having another one – not even for an evening. Lady Charlotte is obviously in collusion with my mother but that life is for other more pliable girls. The qualities they desire for me, modesty, meekness and passivity are the characteristics which are most becoming and even quite enchanting- in other girls but not me.  Aubrey here is a prime example of what a Governess can do to a spirited girl, for a young woman with boyish features, and I suspect a lively personality, I would have thought she should be more plucky and exuberant but she’s not. Obviously the result of months under this Governess’s oppressive regimen. Of course I’m not complaining, I like a girl who is submissive and Aubrey is so adorably submissive when in Lady Charlotte’s company. And my aim is to eventually supplant my godmother as the dominant personality in her life.

With Lady Charlotte and Alice preoccupied at the dressing table Roberta steered Aubrey towards the bed.

“I think you would absolutely darling in this.” she said pointing to a deep mocha silk satin with silk brocade panels and a two tier pleated hem. 

Aubrey surveyed the gown, he had worn it before of course and thought at least she had not picked one of the more fussy ones which made him look more even more girlish than he already appeared.

“I suppose the colour does suit me and it does accentuate my figure.” he said absentmindedly in a low voice as he fingered the soft material, before suddenly realising his effortless lapse into a feminine perspective.

He felt himself blushing once more and silently cursed himself for such an unforgiveable slip.

“Spoken like a true follower of fashion.” Roberta said quietly and slipped her hand around his waist and called out to her godmother “Lady Charlotte, Aubrey has chosen her gown and I think it would be a good idea if we dressed each other. It would help me get reacquainted with the entire dressing process.”

Alice looked at Lady Charlotte and briefly thought about protesting, Roberta’s suggestion was a blatant encroachment into her domain, she felt that as his Governess she should have control of his dressing and undressing. After all had she not trained Aubrey to the highest standards required of a young lady about to enter society? However she saw her mistress was taken by Roberta’s eagerness to participate in such a quintessential feminine activity and despite her annoyance in having to relinquish her authority over him she immediately abandoned the idea of objecting. A well trained servant would never contradict her mistress.

“A splendid idea.” Lady Charlotte enthused as she turned to the Governess and confirmed her suspicions “Young girls can form a close bond when they engage with each other in such charmingly feminine endeavours. Anything that will encourage femininity in girls is to be welcomed, is it not Alice?”

“Of course your ladyship.” Alice lied with a smile.

“If you promise you will not take advantage of Aubrey you can use her room to dress.” Lady Charlotte said gesturing towards the interconnecting door.

Roberta hurried to Lady Charlotte and kissed her on the cheek.

“Dear godmother.” she said lightly and with a barely suppressed smile “I would never do such a thing. You have my word.”

“Very well. “Lady Charlotte replied eyeing her suspiciously “Alice will help you bring the gowns and as there will be no need to change your corsets or underwear I would like to be ready in thirty minutes.”

Alice robbed of her prize grudgingly gathered two of the gowns while Roberta took another two and they went through the adjoining door into Aubrey’s bedroom.  

“I think we had better keep an eye on our two young protégés” Lady Charlotte said as Alice re-entered the room.

Alice smiled instinctively aware of her mistress’s thinking and without instruction removed two pictures from the wall separating both rooms revealing two small spy holes. Both women took their positions and observed the unfolding scene.

Roberta could not contain her delight and a broad smiled broke out on her lips as she laid the gowns she carried onto the bed. It did not go unnoticed by Aubrey who suddenly wish Lady Charlotte was present.

“Turn around.” Roberta instructed Aubrey as she looked him directly in the eye, he hesitated momentarily.

“Now!” Roberta snapped.

Like a well trained lap dog he recognised instantly the brusque tone of its mistress indicating an impatience which should not be tested. He meekly turned and presented his back to her.

“That’s a good girl.” Roberta said patronisingly, her tone softening as she began to unbutton the Mother of Pearl buttons at the nape of his neck “but if we are to be friends you really must obey me promptly. I do not like having to repeat myself. You do understand, don’t you?”

Dressed as he was he was in no position to rebuke her and besides her tone was so assertive he was fearful of the consequences of confronting her and much as he hated himself for it he felt he had no option but to continue to humour her. The alternative was just too horrible to imagine.

“Yes Roberta.” he replied timidly.

“That’s my girl.” Roberta said softly as she leaned into him and he felt her breath on his neck however it wasn’t the only thing he felt. Her hand had slipped around his waist and despite the several layers of petticoats they both wore the pressure of her groin against his derriere was impossible to ignore. He tried to pull away but the firm grip she had around his waist kept him firmly in place as she continued to gently rub herself against him and he felt her breasts pressing into his back. Despite the shame he felt at being physically restrained by a girl her thrusting movements against his buttocks stirred the organ between his legs.

“Oooh…” he simpered, demeaned at his arousal  “ please… Roberta…please don’t... Lady Charlotte…”

“Hush now my little darling.” Roberta breathed into his ear and he felt another gentle thrust against his behind “I’m not going to hurt you and my godmother is in the next room.”

He felt her hand move to his left breast and was relieved he was wearing an over- bust corset so her hand could only feel the mass and weight of his false bosom and not its smooth but not quite natural feel to the human touch. Although being forced to wear these facsimile breast forms was a deeply humiliating experience he nevertheless could not help marvelling at their realistic effect under his female clothing and once they were not exposed were extraordinarily lifelike. In fact he had become so used to wearing them he rarely gave them a second thought.

But this was different. Now he was the subject of a predatory approach by an obviously sexually aroused female. It was a most unsettling experience and one which sparked reminiscences of times past.

He recalled how he had done this to several housemaids in various houses he had visited with his mother and remembered how these servant girls strived to break free, protesting at his advances, struggling against  his superior strength. This and his sense of entitlement allowed him to indulge himself at their expense, now Roberta’s unsolicited attentions just like his towards those housemaids served to amplify his vulnerability.

He blushed in shame, not only at his feebleness in preventing Roberta’s blatantly sexual overtures and his pathetic inability to free himself from her firm grip but also his own inexplicable arousal at being subjugated by her physical presence.

He made another attempt to free himself from her grasp but she easily thwarted his pathetic effort and in a single movement forced him face down onto the bed and lay on top of him spreading her legs over his, her hips thrusting against his plump cheeks. Despite the voluminous undergarments they both wore her prodding hips pushing against his backside completed his humiliation.

“Such a pity I cannot get you fully undressed and see that glorious derriere of yours.” she panted “I have a carved ivory phallus that I can wear on a harness, I’m sure you would enjoy it.”

Just as he was about to scream she forced his face into a pillow her groin pressing and rubbing forcefully against him. A few moments later slightly breathless she dismounted him.

“Not ideal but enjoyable nonetheless.” she remarked as she composed herself, fixing her hair and looking at his prone body laying face down on the bed “no doubt a taste of things to come.”

Being her defenceless and vulnerable plaything had almost paralysed him with shame and he remained face down on the soft satin quilt.

“Now, time to get dressed young lady.” Roberta said nonchalantly.

He remained where he was still coming to terms with her aggressive action.

“Now!” she said sharply lifting his petticoats and slapping him on the satin clad cheeks of his backside.

The sting from her hand quickly focused his mind and he immediately rose from the bed.

“Please do as you are told at once, young lady.” she admonished him in a firm but gentle tone “I have warned you about this already, I want us to be friends but you really must do as you are told immediately.”

 Shocked and confused by his powerlessness he slowly rose from the bed and for the briefest instant he thought about slapping her across the face for her outrageous behaviour but his anger was quelled by the realisation such an action would surely bring further retribution . He swallowed his indignity and shamefaced he timidly succumbed to her superiority, despite this abject capitulation he nevertheless still tried to muster as much dignity as possible.  His acquiescence did not go unnoticed, her face softened and she smiled.

“Much better.” Roberta said in a self-satisfied tone but added sympathetically as she continued to undress him “You really must understand that young girls like you need supervision at all times, a firm hand to guide you. So in my godmother’s absence it is only natural that I assume authority over you. You do understand, don’t you?”

“Yes Roberta.” he replied meekly, despising himself for his lack of backbone in surrendering to her so timidly.

“That’s a good girl.” she beamed and picked up a pale lilac silk taffeta gown with an ivory silk brocade flounces and a large ornate bow.

He winced at the fussiness of the dress but that was as much as he dared to do.

“Yes, I suppose it is rather fussy for a young girl.”Roberta remarked as she busied herself choosing another dress.  Aubrey cringed at being addressed as a young girl and despite yet another blow to his ever decreasing and fragile self-esteem he was relieved that his charade was continuing undetected.

She held up another gown for his approval, a boned ivory satin trimmed gown with ruffles edged in black. He felt if he was to sustain his pretence he would have to at least show some eagerness after all that’s what girls did when confronted with the latest fashions.

“Yes that is nice.” he lied enthusiastically as he could and to ensure Roberta was left in no doubt as to his femininity, he added “The detail on the bodice is wonderful, that style really suits my figure.”

“Yes I think it will.” Roberta agreed clearly impressed with his eye for detail as she lifted the gown over his head “As you have gathered I don’t care for women’s fashions but I do like my special friends to look soft, pretty and feminine.”

Aubrey blushed at the remark but not for the reason Roberta thought.

“No need to be so bashful.”Roberta said as she settled the gown over his petticoats and began buttoning him into the gown “I know you probably think you are too tomboyish and perhaps not as classically feminine  as other girls but believe me in these clothes you are as pretty as any debutante.”

Her remark only reinforced the erosion of his masculinity but he knew he had to acknowledge her compliment as a girl would.

“Thank you Roberta.” he said his blush deepening but she had already turned her attention to choosing her own gown.

“Oh these are really most unsuitable for me.” she sighed wearily gazing at the ultra feminine garments, she picked up the plainest of the dresses “Men have such an easier time when it comes to clothes, a pair of black trousers and jacket, white shirt and collar and they are finished. Whereas women are supposed to wear layers of silk and satin not to mention a hideous corset. Just imagine telling a young man he would have to wear all this. ”

Gesturing to her bulky skirts, it was clearly obvious to Aubrey that she still resented having to wear the layers of voluminous and restrictive female clothing.

At least you are supposed to be wearing them. Aubrey thought bitterly to himself but felt this was an opportunity to ingratiate himself to her.

“I think this one may suit you.” he said smiling at her and picked up the plainest gown, a two piece velvet black chiffon purple with a gathered bodice and a ribbed silk skirt “It’s not overly feminine and doesn’t have any frills or flounces. It’s almost masculine in its appearance.”

“Mmm…perhaps you are right, you appear to have such a good eye for these matters.” she mused examining the dress before presenting her back to him so he could begin to undress her “I suspected that beneath those boyish looks of yours  there was indeed a strong feminine sensibility. ”

He could not deny the truth of her remark no matter how hard he tried. Months being dressed as a girl and schooled in feminine deportment under the strict supervision of Alice, his Governess and Lady Charlotte had ensured he was well acquainted with all aspects of femininity. Most mornings, as part of his indoctrination into the feminine realm, he was forced to read ladies fashion magazines and then tested on the contents by Alice or Lady Charlotte. Failure to reach a certain standard of knowledge regarding the intricate aspects of ladies clothing was dealt with harshly with the cane and he quickly became as familiar with every feminine garment as any young lady his age. He was also taught how to braid hair and became quite proficient at arranging female hair into basic styles, practicing on Alice and Sarah, one of the housemaids. He knew the correct number and style of petticoats to wear under every style of gown and often helped Lady Charlotte dress for dinner. In hindsight he felt it was no surprise Roberta’s mother mistook him for a lady’s maid.

As these thoughts ran through his mind he remained silent as he expertly unbuttoned Roberta’s dress and replaced it with his choice. Placing the skirt of the gown over her head she continued to talk about his fashion insights and expertise in the art of femininity. He fumed silently as he helped her into the boned and stayed bodice.

Roberta looked at herself in the mirror and grimaced at the image.

“Ugh.” she pronounced her displeasure and then clumsily approached Aubrey and embraced him kissing softly him on the lips before gesturing to her bulky skirts “You come with a heavy price but you are worth it.”

The door opened and Lady Charlotte entered, Aubrey first impression was she looked rather flushed as if she had been  overly excited.

“I had hoped you would have worn something more vibrant Roberta.” she said eyeing his dress “but the colour does suit you.”

She turned her attention to Aubrey.

“Pretty as a picture…as always. Don’t you think Roberta?”

“As always.”Roberta repeated and smiled at Aubrey.

“Shall we ladies?” Lady Charlotte said inviting her two charges to join her as she walked towards the door “Cook has prepared some delicious Dover Sole.”

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Gracefully lowering herself onto her chair in the drawing room after dinner Lady Charlotte instructed Aubrey to pour two glasses of brandy.

“And a small sherry for yourself.” she added and as if to underline his standing as a young girl she remarked to Roberta “One needs to be mindful of such a young and delicate creature.”

Aubrey felt the urge to assert himself but knew any protest would not end well.

Roberta, the unmistakable look of desire on her face watched him as he moved gracefully across the floor carrying the drinks on a silver salver.

She has such poise I’d wager she could carry that salver on her head and not spill a drop. she thought taking in Aubrey’s practised and elegant womanly gait.

Her gaze did not go unnoticed by Lady Charlotte and after they took their drinks both women observed Aubrey effortlessly arrange his skirts around his legs before slowly and smoothly descending onto the plump cushioned chair, his back ramrod straight and hands folded in his lap.

A Duchess could not have performed the manoeuvre better. Lady Charlotte smiled to herself at her protégé’s remarkable feminine elegance.

“Now as to my plans for tomorrow.”Lady Charlotte began “As you know our new friend the Countess von Uttendorf has arranged for her son- a most disagreeable and unruly young man by all accounts- to be placed in a finishing school for young ladies and I have suggested that we all travel in my carriage… ”

“Oh yes, what an excellent idea.” Roberta squealed.

“Please do not interrupt Roberta.” Lady Charlotte admonished her goddaughter “The Countess is most grateful that we will accompany her but is concerned that being in such close confinement with so many females her son may become even more unpleasant. She suggested another male presence may prove a distraction and help restrain his more objectionable behaviour. However t the moment I cannot think of a male of my acquaintance that would prove suitable for this undertaking.”

She paused to take a sip from her glass and then rang the servants’ bell. Roberta’s eyes lit up.

“I think I would be perfect for such a role.” Roberta announced confidently, sitting up in her chair and  seizing her chance to at last to discard her offensive and restrictive female clothing “My male clothes are at home it would only take ten minutes by carriage to collect them.”

“Perhaps.” Lady Charlotte replied as she smoothed an imaginary crease on her skirts “But you left without any door keys, your mother has left for the country and there are no servants there at the moment.”

“But …I… “Roberta answered struggling to find an adequate response and suddenly realising she had indeed left without keys.

Alice appeared and made her way to her mistress and presented her with a package.

“You probably would have made an excellent male companion Roberta.” Lady Charlotte admitted “but the absence of male attire in your size means you cannot. However I believe these male clothes will fit our dear Aubrey.”

“You mean…” Aubrey gulped almost spilling his sherry “You want me to wear male clothes.”

“Of course if you feel uncomfortable in doing so we could…”Lady Charlotte said

“Oh no…”Aubrey quickly interrupted her with indecent haste “I won’t feel uncomfortable at all.”

“Preposterous.”Roberta objected and becoming increasingly annoyed at her missed chance of shedding her female garments “She may have boyish looks but she is far too feminine in her mannerisms and gaits to impersonate a young man.”

“Well perhaps you can give her lessons then.” Lady Charlotte said and gestured to Alice who moved to Aubrey side “Alice undress Miss Aubrey and put him into this male attire.”

“Here?” Aubrey said obviously embarrassed at the thought of being undressed in front of the company.

“Why not?” Lady Charlotte asked “Are we all not women? But if you do not want to…”

“No, no.” Aubrey answered immediately and turned his back to Alice who began to unbutton his gown after receiving a nod from her mistress.

Roberta almost forgot her annoyance as she witnessed Alice slowly almost theatrically undress him.

Twenty minutes later Aubrey stood before the all female company dressed in the unfamiliar feel of a full set of male garments only his feminine underwear reminding him that he was not quite free of his female persona.

“Not exactly the epitome of manliness!” Roberta snorted to Lady Charlotte.

“Perhaps not.” Lady Charlotte agreed “However there is potential don’t you think Alice?”

 Aubrey hid his annoyance at Robert’s remark, he knew that to respond angrily would merely prove that he had not modified his behaviour and lead to an extended period confined in female clothing. He suppressed his indignation at her insult and remained quiet trying and failing to remember how to strike a confident male stance.

“I’m sure there is your ladyship.”Alice answered, making an adjustment to his collar “Miss Aubrey is a quick learner and given a little practice I’m confident she will give a reasonable performance as a male. Perhaps Miss Roberta, given her expertise in this area, could offer some assistance.”

Roberta stood up and with her skirts rustling made her way to where he stood.

“You’re standing like a girl. You will have to stand with your legs apart, like this.” Roberta instructed him as she widened her stance forgetting that she was wearing several layers of petticoats and skirts.

Aubrey had to struggle to subdue his temper at taking advise on masculinity from a woman, neither he or Roberta saw Lady Charlotte and Alice exchange knowing smiles.

“These damm clothes!” Roberta cursed as she quickly realised her inability to adequately show Aubrey the correct way to position his legs.

This was only the beginning of Aubrey’s lessons in comporting himself as a male and much to his chagrin he now realised that Lady Charlotte and Alice were highly amused at the sight of Roberta teaching him how to act like a young man. They took great pleasure and not a little amusement in Roberta schooling him in the art of walking like a man. Although he hated to admit it he had indeed practically forgotten his male stride and it took almost an hour for Roberta to finally declare her satisfaction at his performance.

“Very impressive.” Lady Charlotte said when Roberta had finished drilling her student.

“Now try sitting.” Roberta continued her lesson.

On his first attempt at sitting his hand automatically felt for his dress- an action any lady would do to ensure her skirts were arranged properly and one he had performed thousands of times in the past several months he sat down. It was as natural as breathing.

Lady Charlotte and Alice giggled at the sight but he was concentrating so hard he did not hear them.

“Oh dear.”Roberta sighed “You have so much to learn about how a young man carries himself. It took me months to perfect the mannerisms. You can hardly be expected to impersonate a male after only a few hours practice. I think it may be a case of ‘clothes do not maketh the man’”

She turned to her godmother.

“Surely we can find a suit to fit me?” she pleaded “Poor Aubrey is hardly masculine material despite his boyish good looks.”

Lady Charlotte and Alice could see that Aubrey was furious but was unable to say anything which only heightened their enjoyment at his expense. It was quite obvious that he was struggling internally to make the adjustment from female to male not only in his movements but also in his brain.

“I’m afraid all the shops are closed my dear.” Lady Charlotte said stifling her amusement “Please continue, you are doing excellent work. I’m sure she or perhaps we should now refer to Aubrey as ‘he,’ will surely pick up some of your valuable insights as to how the male moves. Besides I doubt if ‘he’ will have to do much, the Countess only wants a token male to accompany us. Just to sit in the carriage and look manly.”

Robert eyes settled on Aubrey and she gave a snort of derision at the excuse of a male in front of her.The missed opportunity to revert to male clothing only frustrated Roberta even more and she took this out on her new pupil.

“Walk on Aubrey.” she said sharply using the same phrase as one who trains a young pony, he remained motionless for a moment now acutely aware that he was being trained like a house pet.

Roberta was not impressed and to emphasise her position as his teacher she picked up one of Lady Charlotte’s thin walking canes and hit him gently but firmly on his newly trousered backside. It had the desired effect and he began walking in a curious hybrid gait that was neither male nor female. Despite intense concentration he was finding it very difficult to remember his male stride, to both his and Roberta’s frustration.

“You’re gliding like a girl you need to walk with a sense of purpose.”Roberta’s exasperated voice rang out “Lengthen your stride with your legs slightly apart- as if you have something between them.

Lady Charlotte and Alice could not contain their amusement any longer and burst out laughing. Aubrey turned red, a combination of rage and embarrassment boiling up inside him but knew if he vented his fury he would immediately be put back into his dress. And so he suffered in silence and his tuition in male behaviour continued under Roberta’s supervision.

And so his lessons continued for what seemed an eternity until Lady Charlotte eventually called a halt to his torture.

“I think it’s time we retired for the evening. We have a very busy day tomorrow.” she said rising from her chair, pausing briefly to arrange her skirts to her satisfaction. She smiled at Aubrey before adding “I know you probably can’t wait to get out of those masculine clothes and into something more appropriately feminine. I have selected a beautiful peach silk nightgown and matching peignoir for you.”

“Sounds quite fetching.”Roberta said lustily unable to adequately disguise her desire.

“Roberta! I have already warned you about your behaviour.” Lady Charlotte mildly rebuked her as she put out her arm for Aubrey to take “Aubrey is not one of your conquests to be interfered with as you see fit.”

Roberta followed them into the vestibule and up the wide staircase protesting her innocence at such an accusation, declaring her respect and admiration for Aubrey and strongly suggesting to her godmother that if she had another hour or two alone with Aubrey she would ensure he would pass muster as a male.

“I think you have done an excellent job Roberta but I am concerned that you will take advantage of my darling Aubrey” Lady Charlotte said arriving at her bedroom door and added with a knowing smile “If I was not in the next room when you were getting dressed heavens knows what you would have done to the poor…” she paused, stood back from Aubrey and  gesturing to his new attire smiled before adding “…boy.”

Much to Aubrey’s annoyance Roberta laughed at Lady Charlotte’s use of the phrase ‘boy’. She moved closer to Aubrey and stroked his cheek.

“Oh I was very restrained.” Roberta answered with a impish grin “Isn’t that so Aubrey.”

Aubrey felt a slight shiver go down his spine at the recollection of how easily she dominated him on the bed. As much as he wished he could deny it he was forced to admit he was practically helpless to prevent her forcing herself on top of him. It was only the knowledge that Lady Charlotte was in the next room that prevented Roberta from slipping her hand between his legs and discovering his secret.

Aubrey moved a little closer to Lady Charlotte and squeezed her hand.

“Your room is next to Aubrey’s, one of the housemaids will be along shortly to undress you.” Lady Charlotte said “And I will help Aubrey disrobe.”

“But I could…”Roberta began but was immediately interrupted by her godmother.

“I’m sure you could but you won’t.” Lady Charlotte said firmly “And as you know there are no locks on any of my bedroom doors so I expect you to remain in your own bedroom and not pester Aubrey- now that he looks so masculine.”

“My twelve year old sister looks more masculine.” Roberta snorted disdainfully as Alice let out a slight giggle.

Aubrey was too nervous to be angry at the insult and now realising Roberta would have access to his bedroom he squeezed Lady Charlotte’s hand even harder.

“If I may make a suggestion your ladyship.” Alice said and after her mistress nodded Alice continued “Perhaps, for the sake of preparing…”, she looked at Aubrey gesturing to his male clothing “… the young…ahem… Master for his role tomorrow it may be beneficial if he, just like most young men, were to undress and prepare for bed alone. It would possibly help to adapt the mind to a more masculine disposition.”

“Ah! I see what you mean. Free from any feminine influence or associations.” Lady Charlotte mused out loud “Yes Alice I think that would be most useful in instilling a little masculinity into him. This famous self-reliance and fortitude than males like to boast about but so few apparently posses. At least none of the males I am acquainted with.”

“How very true.” Roberta declared.

“Now run along Roberta. It has been a long day.” Lady Charlotte kissed her goddaughter and as Alice spoke to her mistress Roberta winked at Aubrey and blew him a kiss before mouthing “I’ll see you soon.”

Aubrey felt a knot tighten in the pit of his stomach as he watched her walk the short distance down the hallway and into the adjoining bedroom.

Lady Charlotte and Alice entered his bedroom and he quickly followed.

“I suppose a male nightshirt would be appropriate instead of his peach silk nightgown.” Lady Charlotte addressed Alice.

“Yes m’lady.” Alice replied and busied herself at one of the tallboys returning with a plain white cotton male nightshirt.

“Ugh! How ghastly.” Lady Charlotte exclaimed examining the garment “We will leave you to get undressed.”

As both women made their way to the interconnecting door Aubrey followed them quickly in short girlish steps still unable to master his old male strie.

“But… what if… I mean …”he stammered finally blurting “Roberta!”

“Yes she does appear to have designs on you.” Lady Charlotte said lightly.

“Designs!” Aubrey repeated, the anxiety in his voice quite obvious. “She wants to… to…”

Her actions earlier in the evening flashed before his eyes and he almost shuddered at how close she came to exposing him as an effeminate male.

“Violate you?” Lady Charlotte offered helpfully which elicited a suppressed giggle from Alice.

Aubrey blushed with shame.

“Perhaps as a girl.” Alice suggested “But now that you are presenting as a strong, confident and virile male I doubt if she would attempt such an action.”

Lady Charlotte chortled at Alice’s appraisal.

“It’s not as if she would throw you on the bed and have her way with you.” Lady Charlotte laughed at the absurdity of the idea and “Don’t tell me you are fearful of her? Only a girl could be that afraid.”

Her remark stung him and he tried to gather his thoughts to reply however she did not wait for an answer and as Alice opened the door she sailed through it. His Governess smiled as she closed the door.

“Sweet dreams Master Aubrey.” she smirked.