Arthur felt like cattle at a market as all eyes turned towards them. He could feel the women gawk at them like pieces of meat, either as desirable partners for themselves or ideal suitors for their unmarried daughters. Several of the younger Officers revelled in the attention. It did not take long for Captain Mathieson and Lieutenant Barnes to lead the way and to disappear into the Hall. Arthur remained a step behind the Colonel. He had grown up on an estate and spent many evenings at events such as these. He had no interest in frivolous conversation about who had received a letter from whom, nor was he interested in the local political situation of Appleby.

The Major followed the Colonel as his Wife led the way into the Hall. The stout woman in her early 30’s was in her element, bubbling with excitement as she smiled and curtsied her way through the hall. The Colonel played the part of a dutiful husband and followed the guidance of his wife. In his late 30’s tall and lean with balding brown hair on top, he held himself comfortably and at ease. 

The Colonel and his Wife, with a significant income of their own, rented a country home not far from the Regimental barracks. He had invited Bradford and several of the other senior officers to join them for the duration of their stay at Appleby. Apart from the excited babble of Mrs Hollyworth, his new quarters were a nice departure from the meagre lodgings he was use to on the continent

Mrs Hollyworth made her way to a group of four, who seem to be awaiting for the three of them to make their introductions. She introduced herself and her husband, jittery with excitement. It wasn’t till the Colonel cleared his throat that she remembered to introduce the Major Bradford. Bradford did not mind but quite honestly preferred to be forgotten and to be left alone as he counted down the minutes until it would be acceptable for him to walk back to his quarters.