A Very Victorian Education Chapter 24 plus Illustration

Below is Chapter 24.

The story has been going on for a long time now and please believe me when I say that the only reason I’m continuing to record our hero’s travails is because of the interest of readers. And although it may be waning his story still seems to have a appeal to a hard core of readers- to whom I am very, very grateful.

Without the positive comments and people ticking the ‘ More Box’ I would have  given up a long time ago. I still find it difficult to believe readers are so patient- as I can only post chapters every 6-8 weeks. So thank you.

I know that soon my time will become very limited due to work commitments and it will be difficult to devote as much time to Aubrey as I do. Even though there are a number of story lines possible I may have to finish it in the next few chapters – although I have said this before (around Chapter 12 I think) and yet here we are a Chapter 24.

So heaven only knows.

This one is pretty long so hopefully you will enjoy it.

Take care

Carrie

ps I don't have time just now to change the illustration at the top of the page - I'll do it in the next few days.

A Very Victorian Education.

By

CarrieP

Chapter 24

With a soft thud the heavy oak door closed behind the young man.

In recent months Aubrey St Clair had come to dread this sound above all others, it was a sound everyone hears numerous times each day but to this young man on every occasion the sound induced a sense of helplessness as it confined him once more in the  suffocating and overpowering prison that was exclusively feminine company of Lady Charlotte de Winter’s home. Now, although in the different setting of St Jude’s Finishing School for Ladies he once more found himself detained in an all female environment.

For months he had dreamt of leaving the confines of Lady Charlotte de Winter’s residence where he was the sole male and where had been staying while his mother toured Europe. Of course like any young man he could have simply opened the front door, step onto the street and walk the short distance to his home after all he was free to do this at any time.  However, unlike any other young man Aubrey St Clair had been stripped of his male clothing and dressed head to toe as an elegant young woman. As a result the self-confidence and sense of male superiority had disappeared and he had become timid, nervous and faint-hearted, in thrall to Lady Charlotte’s authority.

But now for the first time in months and dressed as a male he found himself briefly free from her supervision and set to take this unique opportunity and make his escape. However the Fates and two large and ferocious Dobermans conspired against him, the feminine world once more enveloped him in her tender embrace- this time in the guise of Madam Olivia Strangelove Headmistress of St Jude’s and her deputy Miss Lillian Rezubian.

Once again he found himself firmly back under the control of women. It was a horrible mistake of course but despite his attempts at pointing this out he was ignored and left in no doubt that having rescued him from potential serious injury these women were now assuming authority over him. Months of being dressed and schooled as a girl had instilled in him an extreme deference that bordered on servility to women of a certain age and rank. He doubted he could psychologically, not to mention physically, break free of them and once more surrendered to the control of middle aged matrons.

Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose.

As he was escorted into the large vestibule by these two imposing women he felt the oppressive air of femininity bear down on him and metallic sound of the lock snapping increased his anxiety levels. The women guided him across the highly polished black and white marble tiles, they held him so close their capacious skirts overlapped his legs as they walked. The perfume of freshly cut flowers mingled with the faint smell of furniture polish, portraits of stern faced matrons gazed down on him making him even more apprehensive. He had dreamt of escaping from Lady Charlotte’s ghastly regime where she had forced him to live as a girl keeping him trussed up in lady’s clothing for the duration of his stay. It was a horrible and humiliating experience for a young man, he could not think of a worse fate- until now.

Both these woman had mistaken him for another young man who was to be incarcerated in this institution and undergo a similar feminisation as his but without Lady Charlotte to intercede for him it appeared this would now become his fate. Life under Lady Charlotte’s authority was dreadfully humiliating but the thought of being dressed as a girl in a girls’ school was truly terrifying. Every moment of her absence was bringing this possibility closer. Several scenarios for her and indeed the Countess and Roberta’s non-appearance flashed into his brain.

Maybe the horses bolted he thought but quickly discarded this idea, Perhaps Karl Maria discovered what was in store for him and escaped while the dogs were chasing me and the others are trying to locate him.

A horrible notion then occurred to him.

Could this have been Lady Charlotte’s plan all along?

As the trio made their way in silence across the hallway he felt his heart begin to quicken at the prospect of this last scenario. He made yet another attempt to clarify his situation.

“I’m afraid you may have…”he began but was immediately cut short.

“Silence!” Madam Olivia snapped as she abruptly halted their progress and turned to Aubrey who was visibly shocked.

“We have already told you Maria.” Madam Olivia admonished him her voice but continuing to address him as the Countess’s son. “You must only to speak when spoken to.”

Her rebuke was delivered in such a tone that Aubrey did not dare to argue. He had come to learn the hard way that the best course of action in these situations was to be deeply respectful and compliant to women. Ladies of such stature and eminence as these were not used to having their supremacy challenged. “Yes Madam, I’m sorry Madam.” he answered softly.

“I do hope you’re not going to be one of those boys, Maria?” Miss Lillian asked in a voice that carried an undisguised threat before adding in a slightly disappointed tone “And you made such a promising start with that lovely curtsy.”

“Oh no Miss Lillian.” he blurted truthfully, he had no intention of discovering what lay behind the implied threat.

“I am glad to hear it, Maria.” Madam Olivia said her voice softening “It would be such a shame to have to punish you on your first day.”

Aubrey breathed a silent sigh of relief that his instincts had been proved correct.

“Thank you Madam.” he said meekly, hoping she would give him permission to speak and allow him to correct this terrible misunderstanding.

“We will overlook your behaviour this time.” Miss Lillian said “But please do not let it happen again.”

“Thank you Miss Lillian.” he answered timidly in the hope it would reassure her he had learnt his lesson. “It will not happen again.”

 Of course he could justify such a display of subservience as being necessary to avoid incurring their wrath but somewhere inside there was a deep unease and shame that this obsequiousness came so easily to him. If he was to be completely honest-such deference to the weaker sex had become almost natural. In his experience this course of action was the only one, he had tried protest and rebellion with Lady Charlotte and it did not end well. He would have to play for time in the hope Lady Charlotte would eventually come to his rescue.

“Good I am delighted to hear you say that.” Madam Olivia said smiling at him “It will make your life here so much easier.”

Make my life here so much easier he repeated her words to himself and felt a growing panic rise inside him. It may have been his imagination but he thought the women’s hold on him grew tighter. He looked around and tried to gauge the distance to the door but then remembered the dogs outside. Even if he could break free and open the door he could not hope to escape the dogs.

“Now, some tea before we get you settled.” Miss Lillian said as she opened a heavy dark oak door and guided him inside“And you can tell us all about yourself.”

At last I’ll get the chance to explain this dreadful mistake. He breathed a sigh of relief, soon this latest nightmare would be over and he would be free to leave.  Although still firmly tethered to the women he felt more relaxed knowing he would soon be able to set the record straight.

 His comfort was short lived as they entered the large drawing room, his body tensed and his mouth became dry.

The chatter of conversations ceased immediately once his presence was noticed, his instinctive response was to turn and leave but with his arms entwined with his escorts such a plan was impossible. Multiple pairs of female eyes locked onto him and he felt quite defenceless. The silence was broken by the sound of the heavy door closing this was quickly followed by the sound of rustling skirts as the entire room rose as one and curtsied to the women. Aubrey could not explain it but he suddenly felt a change in the atmosphere and after a moment what seemed like a sea of satin, silk and taffeta slowly began to approach him. His natural instincts for protection took over and he moved close to Madam Olivia positioning himself slightly behind her as the feminine horde advanced.

“Yes girls.” Madam Olivia announced as the throng swarmed ever closer “as you can see our new pupil has arrived.”

The bustling cohort gathered around him, the expressions on their faces alarmed him. As the sole male he expected some curiosity but their appearances took on a more excited, almost febrile aspect. Some touched his clothes, one or two stroked his hair, another stroked his cheek and he heard her remark how soft it was. He was horrified at their unsolicited attention realising the last time he observed a similar scene was in the Zoological Gardens. It was a most unsettling experience for the young man and like a frightened calf craving protection he moved even closer to Madam Olivia.

“Now girls settle down please.” she said “I know it’s been a few months since we’ve had our last…”

She looked at Aubrey and noting his obvious apprehension smiled before continuing,

“…Emm …pupil.”

A ripple of applause and girlish squeals broke out from the swarm of silk and satin figures gathered around him, every pair of eyes in the room focused on the pale faced youth. Seeing his admirers were not dispersing Madam Olivia took him by the hand and moved away.

“Ladies, please .”she declared attempting to pacify her charges “There will be plenty of time for you to get to know Maria.”

“Maria!” a chorus cried out.

“He’s got his girl’s name already.” one voice shrieked.

“He doesn’t look like a Maria.” another blurted “I think he should be called Penelope.

“Louise, suits him much better.” yet another said.

“Girls!” Miss Lillian said sharply finally getting their attention “Please return to your activities we will have plenty of time to discuss these matters.”

Aubrey could feel his panic tightening its grip as the troupe of young women reluctantly dispersed, their eyes still lingering on him.

“Don’t’ pay any attention to the girls Maria.” Miss Lillian said as they reached a table by the window “As I’m sure you can appreciate it’s been almost a year since we’ve had our last male.”

Terrorised by the prospect of being imprisoned in such a horrendous institution Aubrey was unable to reply.

“Yes the girls are very excited, as you can see.”Madam Olivia began as she filled three cups.”I’m sure you will make lots of new friends.”

“Milk or lemon, Maria?” Miss Lillian asked Aubrey in a languid voice.

Milk or lemon Aubrey, silently repeated the innocuous question as he stared blankly at the two women, wondering if his grasp of reality had deserted him.

“Lemon.” he replied in a daze, the enormity of his situation beginning to overwhelm him.

“Sugar?”  Madam Olivia asked of the clearly unsettled young man.

Aubrey could only shake his head.

“No wonder he has such wonderful figure Lillian.” Madam Olivia gushed.

“And it will be enhanced once he is wearing corsets, he will make the girls so envious.” Miss Lillian smiled approvingly. “His mother has forwarded his lingerie and corsetry as well as some of his gowns, the dressmakers at Madame Monique’s will have the rest completed in the coming weeks.”

 Aubrey desperately wanted to interrupt despite the threat of punishment but the panic that engulfed him prevented the words from leaving his mouth. And to make matters worse he was acutely aware of every girl in the room was following his every move.

“Now Maria,” Madam Olivia continued in a pleasant voice “We were told you were quite difficult, arrogant, conceited and very troublesome. But our first impressions, apart from the male tendency to interrupt, are quite the opposite.”

“And our instincts are rarely wrong in such matters.” Miss Lillian interjected said patting his thigh in a most friendly fashion.

“You appear to be quite respectful and deferential.”Madam Olivia continued “Perhaps a little rough around the edges and probably prone to the odd lapse in behaviour which is expected of a male but nothing that a firm hand cannot correct. I believe, at heart you are a dutiful and obedient son, but for some inexplicable reason you appear to have lost control and rebelled against your mother. A most unfortunate occurrence and no doubt a little distressing for your mother but don’t you worry your pretty little head we will soon get to the heart of your problems and help you to overcome them.”

“Yes, an inexplicable aberration from your true nature, I suspect.” Miss Lillian suggested.

Both women gazed at him intently and it was now quite obvious to Aubrey this was posed as a question not a statement. An answer was required and despite his horror at what they were proposing he had no wish to give them cause to antagonise them, particularly in Lady Charlotte’s absence.

“Emm…ah….”he spluttered as they continued to scrutinise him, he could put off the inevitable no longer.

 “Yes, an aberration.” he confessed, eyes downcast at his abject spinlessness.

This obviously had the desired effect and both women beamed their satisfaction which managed to somewhat alleviate his acute embarrassment.

“Excellent, my dear.” Madam Olivia cooed, delighted to hear her analysis confirmed. “Admitting one’s faults is half the battle and if you make as much progress as I think you will you will be home in a matter of months.”

“Months?” he repeated almost choking on the word, his eyes darting to the door in the hope of seeing Lady Charlotte enter.

“Yes Maria. That is the shortest stay here for youths who do not require full training.” Miss Lillian answered “Well, I assume you have worn ladies clothing before, corsets, petticoats, lingerie, and of course pretty gowns. Most young males that have not done so are subjected our basic two year programme.”

His mind and heart were racing.

Two years! He screamed inside his head. How should I respond? Admit to these women I’ve worn those dreadful clothes? he frantically asked himself trying to quell the rising panic, his eyes darted to the door once more, Where is Lady Charlotte?

His brain was so addled that he barely heard Madam Olivia speak.

“You have worn girls’ clothing? Maria?”she asked tersely, a note of concern in her voice as she observed his hesitation in responding.

“Oh dear Olivia.” Miss Lillian sighed “Perhaps we were wrong after all. It appears as if he will require the full two year programme. Such a shame but on the bright side the girls will be delighted with their new plaything.”

Despite him desperately wishing to confront them with their mistake he knew that without Lady Charlotte present this would only make matters worse. He swallowed hard and felt the hot flush of shame fill his cheeks.

“Please Madam, Miss Lillian…”he said quietly, trying to hold back the tears “I…I…”

The words struck in his throat.

“Yes?” Madam Olivia enquired, moving to the edge of her seat.

“I… I… “ he began and suddenly became aware of the silence and tried to make his humiliating admission as quietly as possible “I have worn girls’ clothing.”

“I’m sorry Maria you will have to speak up.” Madam Olivia said “I can barely hear a word you are saying. Have you been dressed as a girl?”

He could see both women were becoming impatient.

“Yes, I have.” he repeated a little louder this time but hoping the surrounding female congregation would not hear.

 “Excellent.” Miss Lillian said triumphantly and turned to Madam Olivia “Just as we thought Olivia.”

“And I imagine you make a very pretty one too.”Madam Olivia said giving him a little smile.

 “Yes Lillian.” she continued as she held Aubrey in her gaze “For some strange reason even the prettiest of males find it very difficult to admit they have been subjected by female relatives to confinement in the soft silks and restrictive corsetry of the weaker sex.”

Aubrey could hear the excited chatter of the girls fill the room again and lifting his eyes he could see them smiling at him which made him even more unsettled that he barely noticed the maid approaching their company.

“The Countess and her party have arrived Madam.” the maid said with a curtsy.

“The Countess?, Her party?” Madam Olivia repeated.

“Yes Madam.” the maid said “ Two ladies and a young gentleman, who, if you forgive me for saying so Madam, appears to be a little agitated.”

“A young gentleman.”  Madam Olivia echoed the maid and looked at her companion with incredulity.

“I assumed she had just left her son with us.” Miss Lillian said looking at Aubrey “not wishing to experience any tantrums or unpleasantness and would return when he was settled in.”

“I have shown them into your office Madam.” the maid said.

“At last.” Aubrey said under his breath, still afraid of the consequences of speaking without permission.

“Very strange.” Madam Olivia muttered and rising from her chair issued her instruction. “Come along Maria.”

Moments later they entered the large and comfortable office of Madam Olivia to be greeted by Lady Charlotte, Roberta, the Countess and a visibly very sullen and annoyed Karl Maria.

“Dear Countess how delightful to see you so soon.” Madam Olivia said “We were just getting to know your charming son.”

“Yes, such a pleasant young man.” Miss Lillian agreed.

“My son?” the Countess laughed then turning to Karl Maria added with a wry smile “That gorgeous creature. If only that were true my dear Madam Olivia. “

Aubrey felt so relieved he almost ran to Lady Charlotte.

“Such an affectionate boy.” Miss Lillian said as Aubrey nestled himself between Roberta and Lady Charlotte.

“No, Madam Olivia.” The Countess lamented, her tone betraying her disappointment as she  gestured to the other young man with the petulant look on his face.”This is my son.”

“There has been an unfortunate misunderstanding Madam Olivia.” Lady Charlotte intervened introducing herself and Roberta  “It will take a few minutes to explain but I see you have met my young ward Aubrey.”

“Aubrey!” Madam Olivia blurted.”Your ward? Lady Charlotte.”

“Aubrey!” Miss Lillian repeated looking at Aubrey who now moved even closer to Lady Charlotte.

“Well, I have had more than enough of this nonsense.” Karl Maria snapped “I’m leaving.”

“Oh please stay for a sherry? It’s not often we get such a handsome young man visiting our school.” Madam Olivia said ringing a bell. “I would like to hear your dear mother and Lady Charlotte clarify the situation.”

Karl Maria his ego massaged, muttered something under his breath as Miss Lillian poured from decanter and handed him a small glass.

A maid entered in response to the bell and as she curtsied Madam Olivia whispered something to her after which she left.

“Now Countess, Lady Charlotte.” Madam Olivia said gesturing them to sit “We are intrigued as to how this situation developed.”

 Karl Maria standing with legs apart, his back to the ornate fireplace and a sneer on his face threw Aubrey a disdainful look as Roberta led him by the hand to a two seat couch close to the Countess and Lady Charlotte.

The object inside Aubrey made it troublesome for him to sit comfortable and he shifted uneasily.

“Are you all right Maria, oh dear I’m sorry… Aubrey.” Miss Lillian asked noticing his fretfulness, “I have become used to addressing you as Maria.”

“A nice plump cushion should elevate his discomfort.” Lady Charlotte suggested with a smile.

“Ah, yes.” Miss Lillian answered in a knowing voice and much to Aubrey’s embarrassment she turned to him and  smiled adding, “I understand.”

She retrieved a large pink satin cushion from another couch.

“Now my dear if you stand up, this should make you more comfortable.” she said plumping the cushion before placing it on the seat.

“Em… er…”he spluttered with embarrassment as he eased himself onto the large soft downy cushion “Thank you Miss Lillian.”

Roberta looked at him quizzically and was about to ask him about the nature of his discomfort but was distracted by Karl Maria.

“Pansy!” he snorted disdainfully.

All of the women turned in his direction and, with the practiced facial expressions only ladies of a certain age can deliver, indicated their displeasure.

“Such a darling boy you have Lady Charlotte.” Miss Lillian said ignoring his insult as she resumed her seat.

“And so well behaved.” Madam Olivia quickly added.

“Yes he is.” Lady Charlotte agreed “Still requires guidance and a little discipline now and then but and of course I am a little biased, he is the most attentive and docile of young men.”

Aubrey face reddened once more at her words and he could see Karl Maria smirk.

“As I said… a pansy.” he laughed “That’s what happens when a man is cooped up with women for too long.”

“I told you you’d fit in here.” he laughed at Aubrey and as he moved towards the door he looked in his mother’s direction “I’ll wait in the carriage until you’ve finished with your feminine nonsense.”

Before he had moved two steps Madam Olivia rang the bell once more and two large women dressed in grey uniforms entered and without warning immediately grabbed him by each arm.

“Wh…what do you…”he exclaimed, his shock rendering him unable to finish the sentence.

Aubrey watched, mouth agape, as the young man struggled in vain against the sturdy, well built women. They held him securely and from the composed expression on their faces he guessed there was very little effort on their part.  He continued his futile efforts to break free for about a minute until eventually his strength petered out and he went limp. The two women, maintaining their vice like grip, watched the energy and resistance drain from his face and then manoeuvred his weak body in front of Madam Olivia’s desk.

Aubrey, still shocked at the performance he had just witnessed, glanced at Lady Charlotte and the Countess and noticed the satisfied smiles on both their faces. Roberta turned to him and catching his hand smiled also. Before he could look away Lady Charlotte suddenly caught his eye. Transfixed, he watched as her eyes turned back to the wretched figure of Karl Maria being held by these two statuesque women before her gaze slowly returned to him. A slight, almost imperceptible nod of her head conveyed a message that needed no words and one which Aubrey immediately understood. A shiver went down his spine.

Both instinctively knew his continued submissiveness and obedience was not in question.

He wanted to look away from the scene unfolding in front of him but for some inexplicable reason was unable to do so. Madam Olivia sat imperiously at her desk, her face serene and quite composed as if the spectacle they had just observed was an everyday occurrence. Her back ramrod straight and his experienced eye could detect the outline of her corset as it strained to contain her matronly figure. In the silence Aubrey could clearly hear the soft whisper of petticoats as some the women moved in their chairs and adjusted their skirts.

“Mother, tell these ghastly women to unhand me.” the young man demanded.

“Silence girl!” Madam Olivia snapped. “You will only speak when you are given permission to do so.”

“How dare you call me…”he shouted his face contorted in anger, his mouth agape in astonishment at what he had just heard  but before he could find the words to complete the sentence  Miss Lillian deftly placed a small ball like object into his mouth and quickly fastened the attached straps around his head. His arms still securely restrained by the two women he was helpless to remove it, his eyes widened in horror as he heard the metallic click of a lock.

Madam Olivia rang the bell once more, moments later the door opened and two uniformed maids entered, curtsied and  without receiving instruction picked up a four legged heavily padded piece of wide furniture about three foot high that Aubrey thought looked like a small gym horse and placed it in the centre of the room. A nod from Madam Olivia and the young man was forced over the structure by his two sturdy custodians, his hands and feet secured to the legs of the structure by fur lined leather straps. Aubrey wished he could leave, not because of any sympathy for the youth, this ritual was a reminder of the punishments he himself had received. However he knew that if he tried to leave the room he would find himself in the same position very quickly. The assembled audience watched the youth struggle but to no avail against his bonds, a barely audible and muffled noise emanated from him, the expression on his face a mixture of terror and fury.

Sitting next to Roberta, Aubrey could hear her breathing heavily and he felt her strong hand grip his as one of the women removed their captive’s trousers and underwear. He noticed Roberta was having difficulty in remaining still and under her skirts her thighs appeared to be moving as if they were rubbing against each other. The sounds coming from young man increased in frequency but remained stifled and unintelligible, his eyes following Miss Lillian as she opened a cabinet and Aubrey detected a low whimper from him as she selected three bamboo canes. Practising a few strokes with each of them she finally chose one, a thin cruel looking instrument. Aubrey winced as he heard the distinctive swish as it landed with a dull whack on a nearby unsuspecting and totally innocent cushion. He could see Karl Maria’s reaction became much more animated at the sight of Miss Lillian brandishing the implement that he now knew was meant for his buttocks. As the enormity of his predicament unfolded before his eyes, his trussed up body bucked and jolted, arms and legs pulling this way and that in a futile manner against his restraints until he finally exhausted himself. Although Karl Maria’s gag prevented him from any meaningful form of vocal protest Aubrey was intrigued at the range of emotions his face displayed from anger and terror to pleading and praying. His eyes darted around the room settling on his mother, his muffled appeals for clemency sounding pathetic as he tried to communicate wordlessly with her.  Aubrey knew from his own experience that the worst emotion, the one that would surely render him powerless and helpless would follow very shortly.  Humiliation as Aubrey had discovered was a most debilitating sensation and once she had embraced you it was impossible to escape.

“Such a pity you had to witness this, dear Countess.” Miss Lillian said as she, in an almost absentminded fashion, gently caressed the young man’s bare buttocks with the cane Her touch was as light as a fly but it was enough to spark another bout of fruitless exertion from him as his body went into a spasm of jerks and jolts in an another effort to free himself.

“I appreciate your concern Miss Lillian, but I had expected such an outcome. Alas, it was inevitable” the Countess replied calmly as she rose from her eat and approached her son, gently stroking his face she addressed him.

“You must understand Maria.” she said in a voice that was tender but authoritative “This is only for your own good.”

Karl Maria made an incomprehensible noise as he continued to struggle against his bonds.

“He’s not so haughty now.” Roberta whispered to Aubrey, as she squeezed his hand. Aubrey nodded and gave her a weak smile.

“In the last two years your behaviour has been outrageous.” The Countess continued “I need to marry you off in the near future and I would not inflict such an offensive, obnoxious young man on any girl- even that large Bavarian girl that came to stay with us last year.”

Another burst of noise from Karl Maria indicated his displeasure at her plans for his future. The Countess nodded at Miss Lillian who immediately applied a sharp stroke to his derriere. Aubrey could see the boy’s eyes widen, more in shock than pain.

“Yes there are a number of girls who would make a good match for our family.” the Countess explained but was immediately interrupted by another bout of muffled protests, she nodded to Miss Lillian who delivered another but more stinging stroke.

“Now Maria further interruptions will be dealt with most severely by Miss Lillian.” the Countess informed the clearly shocked but now silent youth as Miss Lillian once more gently caressed his bare flesh with the dreaded instrument. “If you promise to remain quiet and behave yourself I will have your gag removed.”

A vigorous nod of his head conveyed his response.

“Good.” the Countess said and with a rustling of satin and taffeta she returned to her seat, she signalled to Miss Lillian who undid the straps on the gag and remove the gag.  Aubrey could see the fury in his face was barely under control as he glared at his mother.

“Now as I was saying,” the Countess continued “there are a number of girls, women actually as they are several years older than you, all of whom would make excellent daughters- in- law. I will spend the next year assessing their suitability.”

 “But I’m going to…”he began but was immediately cut short by a sharp thwack on his buttocks.

“Silence girl!” Miss Lillian snapped “You have not been given permission to speak.

After the shock subsided Aubrey noticed the boy was trying to control his temper and resisting his natural instinct to scream abuse at his tormentor.

“Yes I know we had plan to visit Monte Carlo and then to Rome.” the Countess said “But your deteriorating behaviour has given me grave cause for concern and I have decided that a year at St Jude’s under the authority of Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian will be most beneficial for your future development.”

The young man could bare believe what he had just heard.

“What?” he screamed “You cannot…”

Another three swift strokes with the cane in as many seconds rendered him silent, moments later the air was filled with the sounds of him sobbing.

Roberta once more squeezed Aubrey’s hand as the other women looked on impassively.

“Please Mother…”he pleaded through his tears, the Countess signalled to Miss Lillian, who was about to apply the cane once more, to desist. “I have learnt my lesson…”

“Oh how many times I have heard that Maria,” his mother interrupted him as she sighed wearily “and how many times I believed you only to be sorely disappointed hours later. Not this time however. It has become clear that you have acquired the worst habits of the male sex and the only way to eradicate such behaviour is immerse you in a more genteel and graceful environment. And St Jude’s is the perfect place for you to learn how to behave in the presence of ladies and will be the ideal preparation for your forthcoming marriage.”

Aubrey was watching the young man closely and could see he was struggling to contain his fury but it was obvious the threat of the cane was curbing his anger. It was also clear from his facial expression that his confused brain was desperately trying to find some way out of this dreadful situation.

“But…”he tentatively began searching for a bargaining position, the despair was evident in his voice ”I… did not bring any clothes, I need to go home and pack a trunk.”

Female laughter filled the room while Aubrey remained quiet.

“Oh don’t worry about clothes.” Madam Olivia said as she rose from her position behind her desk. “We have a wide variety of very pretty dresses and of course corsets and lingerie.”

“Dresses…”he repeated.

“Yes Maria.” the Countess confirmed “It will be difficult for you to learn the respectful and well-behaved ways and manners of the weaker sex without being dressed as one.”

“What?” screamed the prone figure, again attempting to break free of his restraints.

Three more sudden and severe blows were delivered in quick succession.

“As you can see…”the Countess began before correcting herself “…or I should say feel, bad behaviour is quickly dealt with here. I have been far too lenient with you but this school does not indulge such disgraceful conduct.”

“This is outrageous.” the boy screamed “I will not…”

Three more sharp strokes were applied to his exposed buttocks but he continued to rant in a loud voice.

Miss Lillian nodded to the two uniformed women who immediately and deftly positioned the gag into his mouth and once more he was reduced to making muffled incoherent noise.

“I think you all now have an idea of just how difficult he is.” the Countess addressed the room in general as her son continued to jerk and jolt in his fruitless endeavour to free himself.

“How very distressing for you dear Countess.” Lady Charlotte consoled her new friend.

“Typical male.” Roberta snorted derisively.

“I had hoped we could have introduced him to his fellow pupils straight away.” Madam Olivia said, the disappointment evident in her voice “However after such an outburst I’m afraid we will have to begin with the basics.”

“The basics?” The Countess enquired as Karl Maria continued his muffled protest.

Aubrey could see alarm replace fury in his face.

“Yes my dear Countess.” Madam Olivia replied as she positioned herself in front of Karl Maria, the skirts of her satin gown within inches of his face “He will have to start at the lowest level of the feminine ladder.”

“The lowest level?” Lady Charlotte enquired, a curious look on her face.

“Scullery maid.” Madam Olivia clarified, and looking directly into Karl Maria’s eyes addressed him “You will begin your training as a uniformed scullery maid complete with apron and cap. Not the prettiest of servant’s uniforms of course but then scullery maids are rarely noticed by their superiors as they seldom are allowed to leave the kitchen unless it is to scrub the front steps or other menial tasks as directed by their immediate mistress. In your case it is  our cook Mrs Coldstrap.”

Aubrey winced at the thought and noticed that Karl Maria had abandoned all attempts at freeing himself, in the absence of a voice his eyes pleaded with his mother but she was quite impassive to his silent petitions. The only sound coming from him now was a low and constant whimper.

A nod from Miss Lillian brought the two formidable servants forward and from the same closet that contained the instruments of punishment they returned with a number of items. Aubrey audibly gasped when he saw that they carried ankle shackles and a leather collar with a ring in it.

“Oh isn’t this wonderful?” Roberta whispered to him in an excited voice as she squeezed his hand once more. Aubrey remained silent and flinched as one of the women secured the young man’s ankles in the shackles.

“A necessary but temporary precaution I assure you, dear Countess.” Madam Olivia said as the other placed the collar around his neck, locked it with a small silver lock and attached a long chain to the ring. “It does not take long for these trappings of servitude to produce positive results in the wearer.”

She once more addressed Karl Maria,

“If you behave, accept our authority, are obedient and perform your duties diligently and without rancour you will have your shackles, collar and gag removed. If not they will remain until you eventually come to your senses. We assumed you would require a year’s training but due to your disgraceful attitude towards your mother it may be necessary to extend your stay with us for another year. Your fate is entirely in your own hands. But be warned, we are never, ever tricked by male deviousness or duplicity and your dear mother has agreed that any attempt at trickery will add another year to your stay with us.”

The only response was a long, low whine as the tears streamed down his cheeks.

Aubrey noticed Roberta’s skirts moving as if her thighs were still agitated, she seemed to be moving ever so slightly on her seat, this combined with the rapid rise and fall of her cleavage and laboured breathing puzzled him.

“Take him to the kitchens.” Miss Lillian instructed the two servants “Mrs Coldstrap will wish to put her new scullery maid to work immediately.”

As he was taken from the room, vainly struggling between the two large women his mother rose and approached him.

“It pains me that it has come to this Maria.” she said softly “But it really is for your own good and once Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian are satisfied that you have changed you will be released. Now try to be a good girl and don’t misbehave.”

The Countess nodded at the servants and Karl Maria was led away to begin his life as a scullery maid.

A shiver went down Aubrey’s spine as the door closed behind them.

“To put your mind at rest ladies” Madam Olivia addressed Lady Charlotte, Roberta, and to his surprise and annoyance, Aubrey “I have assured the Countess prior to this that Maria will not spend long under Mrs Coldstrap’s regime. It usually takes about four or five days, a week at most before a young man’s spirit is eventually broken and he accepts his fate, he will beg to be released from life in Mrs Coldstrap’s kitchen. And when this happens he will be ready for the next phase.”

“Which is?” Roberta blurted unable to contain her excitement much to the mild annoyance of Lady Charlotte and the Countess.

“If, as expected, he submits to our authority and shows true remorse for his actions he will be rewarded with promotion to under-housemaid.” Miss Olivia answered, Aubrey shivered once more as her eyes appeared to linger on him before she continued “It really is truly remarkable the effect Mrs Coldstrap has on a young male and although she is very fair she can be quite the taskmistress and will not tolerate idleness or disobedience. After a short period under her strict regime they quickly become compliant to the point of meekness displaying considerable behavioural improvement. In fact they will agree to anything in order to escape from her control and without exception they are genuinely delighted with the opportunity to wear prettier uniforms.”

Miss Lillian resumed her seat and Madam Olivia continued

“He will then spend a number of months as a housemaid.” she informed her guests “We have found that life as a female domestic servant particularly as a scullery maid has a most significant effect on the male ego, eradicating any lingering ideas of superiority. As a housemaid he will come under the authority of the head housemaid who will ensure he is kept busy from the moment he awakes in the morning until he closes his eyes at night. We have six other housemaids and he will be the most junior so he will be at their beck and call at all times. Of course his duties will bring him into contact with our pupils and naturally like all servants he will have to attend to their needs when required, cleaning shoes, ironing clothes, making beds etcetera.”

“And you believe he will accept this?”the Countess asked.

“I assure you Countess,” Madam Olivia replied in a calm voice that exuded confidence “As sure as day follows night by the time he leaves Mrs Coldstarp’s kitchen he will be as docile as a lamb. And of course the other maids will ensure he is reminded on a regular basis that the slightest hint of disobedience or failure to carry out his duties to the highest standard will result in a speedy return to Mrs Coldstrap. It is an essential part of our strategy and has never failed us yet.”

“Mrs Coldstrap appears to be a very impressive woman.” Lady Charlotte said.

“Oh she is, Lady Charlotte” Madam Olivia confirmed with a smile before continuing “He will leave Mrs Coldstrap’s kitchen stripped of his male arrogance and surrounded by our sex, and having no contact with other males, he will quickly begin to adopt the mannerisms and behaviour of a girl and in a matter of weeks without realising it he will become quite feminised.”

“So soon?” the Countess asked, her surprise evident.

“Oh yes Countess, if not sooner.” Madam Olivia said confidently “It is at this stage the initial shock begins to wear off and realises that if he must be dressed as a girl then it should be a girl of his own social rank. This change usually manifests itself with an interest in our pupils’ pretty gowns and the contrast with his own servant’s uniform. He then has to write a letter to you Countess, describing how he has learned his lesson, begging for forgiveness and asking to be allowed to dress like the other girls. He also has to write another letter to the Head Girl asking her permission to be allowed join the sorority. Of course there will be a price to pay for the Head Girl’s permission.”

“A price?” Roberta asked, a slight tremor in her voice “I don’t understand.”

“Of course he will be allowed to join his fellow pupils, he is after all the Countess’s son and a person of high social rank.” Madam Olivia said “This is just another way of keeping him on a tight leash and reinforcing his newly discovered humility. She will give her permission if he agrees to become her personal companion.”

Madam Olivia could see that Roberta was almost too excited to ask the question and explained before she could ask.

“In this case the Head Girl will take control of Karl Maria’s training, perhaps we should now refer to him as Maria.” Madam Olivia explained “He will in effect become her personal maid for a few months and he will rarely be out of her sight. It will be very difficult for him to hide any resurgence of his male ego so she will be able to report to us on his progress and any deficiencies in his female persona so we can correct him.”

What an excellent programme.” Lady Charlotte said.

“Yes Lady Charlotte.” the Countess agreed “Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian outlined their strategy to me when I first contacted them and although they guaranteed me success it was most reassuring to see the first stage in action.”

A soft knock on the door was answered by Miss Lillian. She approached Lady Charlotte with a note who immediately read it and frowned slightly.

“Roberta and I will have to leave urgently.” she said tapping the note “It appears Roberta’s great-aunt Harriet, who is also a cousin of mine, is quite unwell and Roberta’s mother who is staying with her aunt has asked both of us to join her.”

Aubrey finally experienced a sense of relief, since the moment he dismounted from the carriage he felt under threat. Life under Lady Charlotte may have been ghastly but it was paradise compared to what Karl Maria would have to endure. He would be relieved to depart and with a bit of good fortune perhaps even have the opportunity to make his escape. As Lady Charlotte and Roberta rose from their seats so too did Aubrey.

“I’m afraid, my dear Aubrey, you will have to stay until I return.” Lady Charlotte said “This is a family matter and it would not be appropriate for you to be present.”

“But…I…” Aubrey stammered trying to stay calm however it was obvious that he was terrified at the prospect of remaining in the presence of these women a minute longer, his eyes pleaded with Lady Charlotte.

“Bringing you home is not an option as it is an hour away in the wrong direction. Speed is of the essence.” Lady Charlotte informed him however detecting his anxiety added “There is every possibility Roberta’s great aunt will have improved and we could return within hours.”

Aubrey’s discomfort was not lost on the Countess, she stood up and moved to his side and slipped her arm under his.

“Perhaps I could look after him for you until you return Lady Charlotte.” she said, her eyebrows arching ever so slightly and smiled at her friend “After all you have been so supportive and helpful regarding my errant son.”

“But…I…” Aubrey continued to stutter, his scrambled brain trying to formulate a response.

“You are so kind Countess.” Lady Charlotte answered returning her friend’s smile.

Aubrey stood rooted to the spot as Lady Charlotte moved towards the door Roberta stopped and kissed Aubrey on the cheek and turned to the Countess.

“Aubrey is such a delicate, special creature, Countess” she said and added in a low voice so neither Madam Olivia nor Miss Lillian could hear “I know what these girls will try to do, I would be most grateful if you would take good care of my precious jewel.”

“Of course my dear. Now run along your great aunt needs you.” The Countess answered and as she gave her a kiss on the cheek and over Roberta’s left shoulder she caught Aubrey’s eye and smiled.

Aubrey felt a familiar queasiness in the pit of his stomach as the Countess glided her way towards him, satin and taffeta petticoats rustling she slipped her arm under his and gently  drew him to her.

“You heard what Roberta said.” she spoke softly and kissed him on the cheek “And I will take good care of you.”

As the Countess guided him back to the sofa Aubrey tried to speak but the only sound that left his mouth was a low pitched whimper.