Francis

This story is for persons of eighteen years or over. All comments, good or bad, are welcome and all will be answered.

Part Seven

First we inspected the garden and it was looking almost as good as when my aunts had tended it, and I said so to Donald.

Old Simon has done a good job indeed,' he replied, and of the churchyard too.' So, putting my arm through that of Donald's, we went up to the church and along to the graves. He left me before we reached them, and I went to each one in turn placing some flowers there and saying a little prayer to each of them. Then we walked round the church grounds and I was very pleased that it was looking so nice.

Now the hall,' I said excitedly. I can't wait to see inside.' So we walked up the lane, passing poor old Mrs Coggins, bent over and having to use a walking stick.

`Morning Lady Francis, vicar,' she said with a smile. We chorused our greetings back, and then we were at the hall. It was made of timber and had a small porch with a sign that proclaimed it to be the village hall, erected in 1947. All this burnt into the wood which made it look quite rustic.

`They haven't quite finished off inside yet, but that should be done in a few days time, but come and see,' Donald said, pulling me by the hand onto the porch and then inside.

It was quite big and not having a ceiling, just the sloping roof, made it seem bigger than it really was. To the left of the entrance was a kitchen, still being fitted out by two workmen, and on the other side, Donald said, were two toilets. Nearly forgot to put them in, he laughed.

Then there were four large windows down either side, and at the far end was a stage that was as big as the one on the Indus. Two men were there also, but they were putting up rails which would hold the curtains. There was a room either side of the stage, the one on the left being the dressing room and such with a door that would lead directly onto the stage. A curtain in the wing would conceal this door. The other right hand room would be for the storing of chairs, tables etc, until needed.

But this is the best bit,' Donald said, pulling me up onto the stage and into the wing. By the door that led to the dressing room was a bank of light switches. Now watch,' he said, as he began flicking them on. Then I could see that there were some spotlights halfway down the hall suspended from the cross beams and were focused on various parts of the stage. I clapped my hands as different lights came on to shine in different places, most of them white, but there were some coloured ones too to give a contrast.

How wonderful,' I exclaimed to Donald, still clapping my hands. The workmen had stopped to watch, and I could see the smiles on their faces as these different lights kept going on and off as Donald played with the switches. You must thank them all for doing such a superb job.'

Oh no,' he replied, that's for you to do when you officially open this hall. I hope there's been no change in your timetable, because I've already gone and given out the date that you will be doing it.'

Oh dear. That means I've got to give a speech,' I said with a rueful smile. I've never done anything like that before.' Donald helped me off the stage and we walked back to the entrance.

`Will there will be curtains up at the windows?' I asked.

Tomorrow they go up. The chairs and things are also due tomorrow as well as some heaters for the winter. All will be ready in time, don't you worry about it. I've been doing enough of the worrying for both of us to make sure it was ready.' He looked at his watch. It's almost lunch time. Would you like a drink?'

`Yes please, and now that you mention it, I'm hungry again. Even after that huge breakfast.' He laughed and took my arm and we walked the few yards from the hall to the pub.

There were three people in there drinking as we entered and all put a finger to their caps in greeting. Dave Drew, red faced and still stout, was behind the bar still polishing glasses. How many of them did he do in a day, I thought?

Well morning to you Lady Francis and to you vicar sir. Nice to have you back again. I must say you've got a lovely tan.' I didn't think that I had one, not being out in the sun much. Thanks very much for the postcard,' he continued. `It certainly looks a fine ship. Better than the one I went over to France in, in 1918.'

No Dave,' one of the drinkers groaned, no more of "How I went to war", business.'

You don't know what it was like. I was there! I know,' he finished with a grim smile. I must say Lady Francis that you are a right dark 'un and that's no mistake. Not letting us know who you really were.'

Please Mr Drew,' I laughed, I didn't even know myself until just before I left last time, honest. It came as quite a shock to me too I must say.'

And it were right good of you to give the village an 'all. We've needed something like that for a long time. Upset old Mrs Coggins it did, but she don't come in here, so's I don't mind.' He leaned forward on the bar conspiratorially, I do hope thee's not putting a bar in there?'

Not a chance.' I laughed. Why try to compete with such a fine establishment as this.' He beamed at this remark.

What are you two having to drink? It's on the house.' I had my gin and tonic and Donald had a pint of beer. Dave even pulled himself off half a pint. Here's to the 'ealth of the Lady of the village,' and downed his drink in one go. Queen of the Seas and now Lady of the village, I was starting to collect titles now, I thought with a smile as I accepted his toast and drank mine straight down too.

`There's one thing I'd like to ask you Mr Drew.'

`Drop the mister your Ladyship, it's Dave to my customers.'

`You drop the Ladyship then, it's Miss Francis to my friends,' I said with as nice a smile as I could give.

`Haha, you're a good 'un Miss Francis,' he replied with a bellowing laugh.

`Donald? How many people do you think will be here for the opening, and do they know there's also going to be a little show?'

`I think we can expect about sixty, give or take a few, and yes they do know there will be some entertainment, why?'

Well,' I said, turning back to Dave, I would like it if you can, set up a keg of beer and some soft drinks and also a few trays of sandwiches and the like for people to have after the show. I will pay for that, and when it runs out, they can come round here to finish the night off. Could you do that for me?'

`You will pay for them to have free drinks and eats?'

`Yes. But only what's out in the hall. What they drink afterwards in here, they will have to pay for it themselves.'

`Well I never. Of course I can do that. That's right generous of you.'

`How much is that going to cost?' Donald asked. He already looked amazed at what I had asked.

`Roughly, without working it out proper, would be about, er, about forty pounds or there abouts.'

`Forty pounds?' Donald gasped, and I put a hand on his arm.

Donald. I pay that for the two runs in a taxi to and from the ship,' I said in a low voice, now let's not quibble about it. The village hall is going to have an opening that they can talk about for months to come.'

`You're so right Fran, they will talk about it. For ages,' he smiled and gave me a hug right there in the bar, and I also noted the diminutive use of my name which was only really for use in the bedroom or when we were alone.

Now how about another drink please Donald,' I said, lifting up my empty glass, and Dave, may we have one of your lovely Ploughman's please?'

`Certainly,' they both said together and we all laughed. We took our drinks and had our lunch out in the garden to catch the weak sunshine that heralded the end of the summer. After which, we strolled back down the lane to the vicarage. Here I looked at his birthday present. A great big box that held a small screen in the upper half, his television, and I was enthralled by it. I sat there for the rest of the afternoon, cuddled up to Donald on the settee watching all that they put out.

The phone rang and Donald answered it and said it was for me. It was Diane, and I could see all my plans collapsing as she spoke, and after putting the phone down, related the gist of the conversation to Donald.

David, you know, who you met here?' he nodded. Well he's been arrested in London, and they believe he will be going to jail for at least three months.'

`Whatever for?' Donald asked.

Lewd behaviour and of committing an indecent and immoral act in public. In other words, he had his trousers down round his ankles and another man was up inside him. They were caught doing it in a public convenience off Tottenham Court Road. It appears he's been up in court before for the same thing and his solicitor thinks, no, is quite sure that they will throw the book at him this time. Oh, what are we going to do?' I wailed. Our job depends on there being three of us, not to mention our opening show here.'

Come on,' he said, taking me in his arms, it mightn't be as bad as that. He might get off with a caution, don't let's jump the gun.'

`But he's not been home two days! Well Diane said that she wasn't taking any chances and knows a few people who could step in, but it'll take several days to find out if one's available and willing to do it. It would still be touch and go even then to get papers to allow them to join the ship. Oh what a fucking mess that David's caused! How can he do this to me?'

I know Donald didn't like me swearing, but I was upset. It was as Donald was patting my back that I realised that I had double standards, castigating David for doing exactly what Donald and I were doing. Except, I said to myself, we wouldn't be caught doing it in public. But the fact remained, that we were, at that time, breaking the law and our humiliation would be far worse if ever we were caught, so I had to become more vigilant in this respect with Donald.

I couldn't do justice to the lovely dinner that Flora had prepared for us and could only pick at it. It even affected my love making that night with Donald, making it a very desultory night for us both. It was four days later that Diane phoned to say that she'd found a friend in Manchester who would be delighted to step into David's shoes, so to speak. They were off to London and Tooley Street to try and speed up the paper process for him to join us. I told her to keep me informed and kept my fingers crossed for them.

The hall was finished two days later, and as we surveyed it, I said that it needed some bunting. Needed to be brightened up with streamers and decorations and a great big ribbon across the porch for me to cut. Donald promised that he would speak to the congregation on Sunday to see what they could provide for this festive occasion.

On Saturday, the phone rang while I was in the vicarage, and I felt my hand tremble as I picked up the receiver to answer it. It was Diane bubbling over with the good news that it was all fixed, and I gave a great shout. Everything was okay and that they, the new guy's name being Ralph, would be at Trowbridge on the Monday afternoon train. I gave out another great whoopee as I ran to find Donald to give him the news. He was as delighted as I was as he swung me round in the garden. I couldn't wait to drag him inside and go down on him, such was my delight that everything could still go ahead as planned.

On Sunday, I sat there in the front pew on the right as you went down the aisle. But not sitting third in as I used to do before joining the choir, but in the aisle seat as befitted my position in the village. I wore the black outfit, the same one I wore on my first return from abroad.

After the sermon, Donald gave a short address to the congregation, which now numbered well over half the village. It was short, but gave praise to the workmen for their speedy efforts in doing the hall and told them all again of it being the opening night on the Friday. He omitted the bit about free drink and food, but word of that had already gotten round. He then asked for them to rummage around to find anything in the way of decorations that could be put to good use for the opening. If they couldn't deliver to the hall or vicarage, he would be most willing to collect. With that, and a last prayer, the service ended.

I was so pleased with him, that after all had gone back to their homes, I insisted that Donald make love to me on the vestry table, like we had done years ago. I'd brought a tube of cream with me so there we did it. No panties as usual and with my dress up over my hips, I lay across the table and he fucked me. I swear we moved the table at least a foot across the floor with his forceful fucking of me. I jerked myself off at the same time, coming all over the floor as he came inside me. We washed at his place and had our cold supper which was becoming a ritual, Sunday evenings was Flora's night off, so I always ate in the vicarage on Sunday nights.

We lay in bed that night and in the sixty nine position, sucking on each other. I was disappointed that I could only get him half erect, and he laughed saying that it was less than an hour since he'd last managed it. But I came and yet it was still nice to lay there sucking and licking him even if he wasn't able to come again.

Monday I just mooned about, waiting for Diane to phone and got a bit testy with Donald at not hearing anything. Then she phoned the next morning to say that they would be boarding the train soon, giving me the time of arrival they were due at Trowbridge. I then voiced a doubt that had been nagging at me since we'd last spoken, but she laid that apprehension to rest. Ralph had been working the clubs up north for a couple of years, so he knew the ropes.

Donald was pleased for me and also at the amount of things he'd been given for the hall. Knowing roughly what else we had to get from Trowbridge, he came with me in the taxi and these were bought in a very short time. Rather than have him hanging around, I packed him back off to the village with our purchases so that I could go to the hairdresser's and be finished by the time the train was due in. I was wearing my leopard brooch, but it didn't seem to strike a chord with anyone there, not that I expected it to.

The young hairdresser did a marvellous job on my hair and even if I say so myself, I looked terrific. My make-up was perfect, my clothes were of the latest fashion and with my hair done, I was quite proud to walk down the main street towards the station. I liked the feel of the dress as it swirled about my legs, the breeze tickling my parts that swung free, and the feel and sound of my stockinged legs as they whispered to each other on passing as I walked.

The lift to the heart came from the road side workmen. Whistles and comments which were very complimentary, except one, which was very rude. I stopped and turned to the man who looked like he might be the foreman and whispered in his ear and pointed at the man who'd made this comment. This foreman went red in the face and grinned and nodded his head. He then told the others what I had said and they burst out laughing and cheered me as they ribbed the guy. What I had whispered to the foreman was, `Tell that young man there, that I've given blow jobs to small boys with bigger balls and cocks than he is ever likely to see.'

I went on my way to the cheering with a happy smile on my face. The train was on time and soon Diane came rushing to me and we kissed and hugged each other, getting some strange looks from other arriving passengers because you don't normally see two girls kissing their greeting on the lips. A young man stopped hesitantly behind her and he was quite good looking too. About the same age as Diane I would have said, and he was decently dressed. He carried a small suitcase and had a firm handshake and a warm smile as we were introduced.

Ralph Williams was his name and was a Mancunian, a native of Manchester for those who would have to look it up in a dictionary. I'd already booked a car and it now pulled up and we got in and set off for home. Ralph sat in the front and Diane sat with me in the back. She told me that David was being held without bail, knowing that he held a seaman's card and could possibly skip the country. I thought it was a bit strong considering the offence, but she just shrugged her shoulders. Well all I could do was rely on her experience in regards to Ralph, but we would soon find out.

`Have you told him about me?' I whispered in her ear.

No,' she whispered back. I thought I'd leave it up to you.'

`Oh bloody thanks,' I said.

`You're welcome,' she smiled. Bitch, I thought. What the fuck do I say? Do I come straight out with it? Lift my dress and give him a shock? Well he'd get one if he put his hand up it expecting to find a wet pussy. I'll ask Donald tonight I decided. That nearly caused a fight later on, but I'll be coming to that shortly.

We were soon pulling into the lane and at the house. We got out to be met by Flora, Beatrice and Donald like last time.

`Welcome,' said Donald to Diane, getting a kiss on the cheek and a handshake from Ralph, who was also introduced to the help. They had stopped their bobbing curtsies after I told Donald that it wasn't necessary and a bit demeaning. I might be Queen of the Seas, but definitely not royalty.

Diane had the same room and Ralph was given the one David would have been in. He made the appropriate noises of appreciation when we were all back in the parlour and had a drink in our hands. While they were being shown their rooms, I asked Donald what should I do about revealing that I wasn't a girl. I said that if I didn't, it could cause problems later, and he agreed that Ralph should be told before we got down to serious business.

Beatrice had stayed behind to help Flora prepare dinner for the four of us and they were out of earshot in the kitchen. I was sitting next to Donald on the settee with my arm through his, and Ralph and Diane had a comfy chair each. There was a lull in the conversation and Donald gave me a nudge. I looked at him, but couldn't seem to get my voice to work. So lovely Donald took the bull by the horns to speak on my behalf. Well speaking and giving out sermons was part of his life, so he should be able to make it sound right, at least I hoped so. I had my fingers crossed.

`Er, there is something that er, we should bring out into the open, so to speak before we outline any plans. It mainly concerns you Ralph and I must ask you to promise not to reveal what I am about to say, because of this village. Only Diane and myself know, and also there could be serious repercussions if what I am about to say is revealed. Do I have that promise?' Ralph said yes in a quiet voice, knowing that Donald was the vicar of the village.

`Francis is an excellent singer and dancer, and I think she looks wonderful, don't you?' Donald asked.

`Definitely,' Ralph answered, giving me a smile, not knowing of the bomb that was about to be dropped.

`Francis is not a girl. She is a boy.' There, it was out, and I found I had been holding my breath.

`Oh Jesus, a drag queen,' Ralph said closing his eyes.

`If I was to take that remark the wrong way son, I'd take you outside and beat the shit out of you.' I could feel the fury emanating from Donald. Ralph's eyes flew open with alarm.

`No, don't get me wrong sir. I apologise for that remark. It just stunned, no, it was a sledgehammer blow to me. I wouldn't have dreamed it possible. At the station. In the car and in here. I just can't believe it. I've seen many drag artistes, but...'

Francis is not a drag artiste,' Donald interrupted. It has been the way of Francis ever since she was born. In all manner of ways except for the fact she has male genitalia, Francis has been a girl and is turning into a beautiful woman and is a lady too.'

My face felt to be a flaming red the way Donald spoke. He was clearly wearing his heart on his sleeve it appeared to me.

`I can only say again sir, I apologise for taking the Lord's name in vain and for my stupid utterance. I can only ask for you to accept my sincere apology, and to you too of course Francis. This er, revelation has also stopped me from making a fool of myself later on.' I'm not sure if Donald caught the implication of that last remark, but I certainly did.

`Well apology accepted. Let's have another drink before I tell you more.'

`More?' Ralph looked up startled, and it broke the ice because Donald chuckled.

Not so startling, but something new to Diane.' He collected the glasses and refilled them, Diane giving me a quizzical look, but I pretended not to notice. Donald sat back down next to me and continued. Now what I have already told you is not known by any of the people around here and it would have a devastating effect on this place if it were to be known.

Everybody here saw Francis grow up and she was never out of a dress. Whether that was the fault of her aunts or not, it's not our place to judge, but the villagers all believe her to be a girl and now a young woman of some standing in this place. That is what I am coming to.

Now Francis only learned of this just before you were here the last time Diane, and, somehow, the whole village now know. Francis's parent's whom she had never known, died when she was fifteen months old, and in doing so, left her a very wealthy baby. Her aunts also left her all what they had. Francis was also left some property, which turns out to be the whole of the village, with a couple of exceptions. So she is now regarded as being the Lady of the Manor, so to speak, and is greeted and treated as such. So now you know why this other matter must be kept under wraps.'

Wow,' said Diane, letting her breath out with a whoosh, I didn't know I was bunking with royalty.'

Don't be silly,' I said with a laugh, I'm neither rich or royalty. I only get pocket money. It's held in a trust for a long time yet, So don't think that we can go out on a spending spree, because I can't.'

At this point Flora came in to say that dinner would be ready in ten minutes, so that was the signal for the toilet to be used and the washing of hands before we sat down. In spite of the early hiccup, Ralph and Donald seemed to get on. The wine was good and the food served up was better, simple but delicious. Homemade onion soup, pot roast with veg and a fresh fruit pie and cream, with cheese and biscuits to go with our coffee. The talk was lively but concentrated mainly, for Ralph's benefit, on what kind of show's we had been putting on for the ship's passengers.

We'd started dinner early so it was just on nine o'clock when we'd completely finished. Flora had been gone for some time, but had seen to it, that a fire had been lit in the classroom for us, which was where we went with our after dinner drinks.

Ralph immediately went to the piano and sat down and lifted the lid, then began running up and down the scales. The upstairs bedrooms all had two chairs, so I had one from each brought down to the classroom, so we could sit in comfort when not singing or dancing. But after such a heavy dinner, dancing was out, so we just ran through some songs and it was a pleasant evening.

Ralph had a good voice as well as his playing of the piano. I played a few for Diane and Ralph to sing together, and we took it in turns. Tomorrow was the day we would begin seriously, mapping out the format for us to rehearse. That in itself is a long process, but it was really the foundation stones for building on as the voyage went on.

It was gone eleven before we called a halt for the night and I left Diane to explain to Ralph about getting their own breakfast. Francis always gets up early and usually goes over to Donald's for hers, I heard her say as the two went upstairs after saying goodnight.

Donald and I had another drink, sitting together, me in the crook of his arm in front of the dying fire in the parlour. We waited for the house to settle down before slipping out and going over to his place. We were both too tired to make love, so it was with kisses that we said goodnight and were soon asleep.

I was up early and had breakfast ready for Donald when he came down. With that over, I left him to clean up and I went over to find the other two were still eating theirs. I had another cup of coffee with them till they had finished, and with Beatrice to clean up, we were soon in the classroom. Flora had obviously given out instructions to Beatrice, because a nice fire was already burning well in the room, making it warm and cosy.

We spent virtually the whole morning making notes before getting to the task of setting the songs and dances together. Timing them mostly to fit them in their proper places. Lunch was just a snack and we carried right on till Donald popped his head round the door to say that we only had one hour before his evening service.

That was as good excuse as any to stop, so we trooped through into the parlour and Ralph gave us the honour of using the shower first. Diane said, as we went up the stairs that I should use it first, it being my house and all that.

`It's only five minutes each in the shower,' I shouted down to Ralph. I was going to tell Diane to use it first, but then I would have made a catty remark about her taking longer to do her make-up, being older than I was. But I didn't, because she is quite a pretty girl, even if she was older, there, I've still been catty anyway. So I took my five minutes and shouted that it was free when I'd finished, and went into my room and did my make-up, thinking, no hoping, while I was doing it, that Donald wouldn't be tired that night, even though I was. Face done and dressed, I went downstairs to have a quick drink. Flora, bless her heart, didn't mind spending that extra time on Wednesday evenings, well it wasn't extra really, because she came an hour later than normal. She was getting things together for our dinner.

`Smells delicious, what are we having?' I asked.

`Away with ye. You'll know soon as you've sat down after the service,' and she shooed me away from the kitchen. Lady of the Manor or not, she was the boss of that area of the house. I grinned at her as I left and was rewarded with a return smile that warmed me. I think we were getting to know one another and I didn't think she would overstep the mark.

I made myself another drink and one for Diane, not doing one for Ralph as I didn't know his preferences yet. I took my drink and sat at the window seat, watching for Donald to make his way to the church.

I then mused back on the remark that I hoped Donald had missed, when Ralph had said that knowing I was not a girl had stopped him from making a fool of himself later on. It was clear to me that given time, he would have made a pass at me, and me, being me, might have led him along and made trouble for us all. So all in all, it was the right thing to have told him.

Diane came down and accepted the drink with hearty thanks and downed it in one go.

`Can I have another?' she asked.

Yes,' I said, help yourself,' gulping mine down, `me too.'

She was pouring them out when Ralph came down looking rather dapper in his suit, and I told him so.

Thank you, and you look gorgeous too,' and we both laughed. I'll have the same,' he said in answer to Diane's query of what he wanted to drink. Well that made life easier when we all drank the same.

I caught sight of Donald out of the corner of my eye, moving swiftly down the path before heading off to the church, with a brief glance across to us.

`Ooops. Five minute warning time,' I said, gulping half my drink down.

`Five minute warning! What's that mean?' Ralph asked.

`Church my boy,' I said, finishing my drink and reaching for my hat.

`Church? But it's Wednesday!'

`House rules. Sunday morning and evening, then Wednesday for evensong. At least you get the best seats in the house coming from here,' I said, putting my hat on.

`Well I never. I thought I was getting dressed for dinner,' I heard him say to Diane behind me as he followed us out and up to the church. For a non-church going person, the one hour service must have seemed like three, so I felt a bit sorry for him and made him sit between Diane and myself in my front row pew. It's only a short service, but those of the congregation, which was about half of that on Sunday mornings, appreciated the reason that the last prayer was a bit lengthy. Donald prayed for all those that went down to the sea in ships, that they be spared the perils of the deep etc, etc, etc, because they all knew then that the three of us would be doing just that next week.

With the service over, we walked back to the house and Ralph said that Donald was a fine speaker and hadn't realised how moving and passionate a prayer could be. I hugged his arm for saying that and I think he knew why, because he just smiled at me and patted my hand.

Back in the house we had another drink, just the one as we waited for Donald, which wasn't for very long, and we were soon seated for dinner. It was a good one too, nice and friendly with Donald also asking us how we got on with our rehearsals. Ralph said, that though it was difficult for him, being with us for the first time, we were making remarkable progress.

`What about the show on Friday night, have you worked out a programme yet? Donald asked.

`Friday night?' Ralph asked, looking perplexed.

Oh, my fault,' said Diane. I forgot to tell him.' She then went on to tell him about the hall and what had been planned.

`Well that will speed things up, but I'm sure with what I've seen of these two lovely ladies, we'll knock them for a six!'

We applauded his confidence and I was sure that it would go down a treat for all of them that came to watch us.

`Then we will have to come up with something good for

Christmas...'

Oh heavens!' I cried out, interrupting Diane. I forgot!' I leapt up from the table, and halfway up the stairs shouted back down.

`Don't say a word until I get back. Not one!' I raced to my room and feverishly ransacked my case until I came up with the itinerary for the Christmas cruise. I ran back downstairs and sat breathless at the table again.

I'm sorry Donald. I completely forgot to tell you,' I said, breathing hard. I'm afraid that this trip is going to be for four, no five weeks longer than we thought. Look,' and I thrust our itinerary for the Christmas cruise that the Indus was going to do from Sydney.

`Singapore, Hong Kong and Manila. Only three ports in a month? With er, two, yes two days in each port. That's a long way to go for just two days in each of the three ports, isn't it?' he asked.

That's not the point of the cruise! Yes they do stop at only three ports, but the whole idea is for those people to be at sea for Christmas Day. Some just to see if Santa Claus can find them,' I finished, laughing. They all then laughed with me at that one. I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier, but I had completely forgotten about it until Diane said the word Christmas.' I put my hand on his, `I'm sorry darling.'

Shit, shit, shit! I cursed to myself, because I saw Ralph's eyes widen and dart towards Diane as I said the word darling. Well, it would be better from me than a mixed version from Diane.

Sorry Donald,' I said, giving his hand a squeeze. Yes. You picked up on it Ralph, didn't you?'

I think so,' he answered, you said darling.' I nodded.

`Yes. I called him darling, and it's true, he is my darling. He's the most wonderful man I know, and yes, we are lovers. There, I've said it! That's why Donald told you at the beginning that there could be serious repercussions if it were known what I really am. Donald could go to jail and I would probably finish up in some correction centre, or whatever. It would ruin both our lives forever. Do you understand what I'm saying Ralph?' I think he saw the murderous look in my eye as I fingered my brooch, which I believe was more threatening than Donald's suggestion of taking him outside.

`I...I promise your secret is safe with me,' he said, his face white.

`It...had...better...be,' I said. There must have been some venom in my voice, because Donald gave a little laugh that was so unlike him.

`Don't be so melodramatic Francis. Ralph has been around, so I'm quite sure he wouldn't say anything, would you Ralph?'

`No way sir! My life on that sir!' he assured Donald.

`There you are Francis, now lighten up,' Donald said. I shook my head, not in denial, but to clear it of the murderous and dangerous thoughts that had passed through it. I kept my clenched hands below the table as I strove to contain myself.

I'm sorry Ralph if my tone seemed threatening, I didn't mean it to,' my voice now sounding quite normal. Let's get on with dinner now, it must be getting cold.'

My outburst had flattened the rest of the evening, and I took some flak from Donald as we got ready for bed.

`I don't know what frightened me more tonight Francis. The thought of us being found out, or the thought that you might have leapt across the table to kill that poor boy. I've never seen you like that before.'

I'm sorry Donald,' giving him a hug before we got into bed. I think I was tired, but I just seemed to lose my head when I saw he'd picked up on that one word. I'm not a mother, nor will I ever be, but I know now how a mother feels when her loved ones are threatened. Don't read too much into it please Donald, now come to bed.' I turned the cover back and he got into the bed beside me. We kissed and as our passion rose, I turned round and disappeared under the covers like a diver going deep into the dark sea to find the oyster that holds a pearl. I found mine.

I was sluggish the next morning and the others had finished their breakfast when I got over there, and without any references to the previous night's dinner conversation, we went straight into doing our dance routines. That soon removed the lethargy from me as we pounded the floorboards of the classroom. Ralph also had a talent for dancing and we were able to add a few more ideas into our programme, but that would mean trying to pick up some Spanish costumes from somewhere.

The afternoon was spent with duets and then finalising what we would do for the show in the hall, so that next morning, we could run through it twice to iron out any kinks. It was with a sigh of relief from the three of us when we heard that it would be only an hour before dinner.

It was in the same order that the showers took place, and with the same time stipulation, though Ralph had the advantage of taking a few extra minutes under the shower if he wanted to. Made up and dressed, I was soon downstairs and had the three drinks waiting for them. I was much happier tonight and I think it showed, because we managed to have a good laugh and three drinks each before we sat down to another wonderful meal. The dinner talk was free and easy and we all went to bed in a mellow mood.

It being our last night but one together, we made love in a slow and leisurely pace. I went first and had the pleasure of holding onto Donald's hips and see his broad back as I slowly moved in and out of him, savouring the tightness of him and his loving squeezes of my penis as it was inside him. I came and held him tight, feeling round his body to grasp his erection as I did so. I first washed myself and then him and let him make love to me in the same way. With a slow penetration, he entered me, moving an inch at a time, seeming to take ages before his thighs reached my rear. It was like Ravel's Bolero. Slow in taking off and keeping to the same rhythm, but increasing it after each movement, until it got faster and faster and finished with a clashing of bodies in his final grinding throes of ejaculation.

I woke him with a kiss, but not until I had on my stockings and suspender belt, and stood by the bed till he was fully awake, and poked my erection at his lips till he opened his mouth and sucked upon me. He had a smile on his face as his tongue teased the eye of my cock and I was soon quivering and then spent myself into his warm mouth. His teeth rasping my cock as I pulled it out, but wouldn't move away until he had licked it clean. Then I kissed him again and told him it was time to get up.

Breakfast was on the table when he came down and we soon cleared our plates. I then went across over to my house, while Donald went up to the hall, because some of the villagers would be there to help put up the decorations for the opening and our show later in the day.

Ralph and Diane had just finished their breakfast, so with an extra cup of coffee each, we went and did two whole rehearsals. Sweaty as we were, I suggested we should go up to the pub for a drink and lunch. This was heartily agreed upon, so with just coats thrown about our costumes, we went off. Only to stop at the hall to collect Donald. He wouldn't let me even have a peek inside to see what they had done that morning.

Wait until later,' he laughed, and then you can see it as it should be.' So I capitulated, and let him lead the others and me into the pub. There were quite a few people in there that lunchtime, more than I'd seen before. Many called out their greetings to us, and I even had a pint of beer thrust in my hand. I'd never drunk a full pint before, only the odd bottle, and it was quite bad because it took me a while before I could finish it. I had a gin and tonic after that. I couldn't have managed another pint, or I would have been peeing for the rest of the afternoon if I had.

We had sandwiches instead of our usual Ploughman's and they were made with nice fresh crusty bread, and were very tasty and filling. It was after three o'clock before we left, leaving Donald to see to the last minute preparations and then sort out with Dave for the setting up of the drinks and food tables.

We carried on down to the house to get our costumes packed to take back to the hall. We kept them to a minimum and Ralph would stay in just the one he was wearing. He saw to the packing of the case and took it up to the hall while Diane and I had a leisurely shower before putting on our make-up and getting dressed. Ralph had come back for his shower and have a shave. We gathered in the parlour and had a large gin and tonic each before going up there. We tried to quiz him on what the hall looked like, but all he would say was that it looked great. Then added that Donald would have his nuts if he said any more than that.

I'd been given strict instructions that I was not to be there till four thirty exactly, so I spent the last thirty minutes going over what I was going to say, and I couldn't keep a single thought in my head. The clock slowly ticked round till there was only four minutes to go, so with a deep breath, we left the house and went up the lane.

I was surprised to see so many people at the top of the lane, waiting. I thought they would have been inside already, but as I got closer, I could see why. The front porch of the hall had been decorated with ribbons and balloons, and there was a wide piece of red tape tied across the front entrance to it. There was a shout, and heads turned to watch us walk the last fifty yards or so. A path was made for us to walk through and then we were there in front to be greeted by Donald.

I didn't have a clue what I was going to say, and I let Donald take my hand and lead me round an upright post of the porch so that I could face the villagers with just the red tape between us. Donald gave my hand a squeeze and then let go, but he still stood beside me, which gave me some comfort.

Friends,' was all I got out at first, because someone started to cheer and the others shushed him down for me to start again. Friends. I thought of writing my speech down, but I also thought I was so clever that I would remember what I was going to say. Well I'm not clever, because I've forgotten every darn word.' This brought out some laughs.

It's nice to see so many people here today, and I'm sure the vicar here would like to see this number on a Sunday morning, but then, he's not giving out free drinks and eats.' This was good because they all roared with laughter, and with a quick glance at Donald, I could see that he was laughing too. So with a bit more confidence, went on. I was born here in this village as likely as you were too, and many of us will die here, to then be looked after by old Simon,' claps and cheers of "Good old Simon" rang out. `I say old, but I do not mean that disrespectively, because you are all old to me. Old friends.

As you know, I am in the Merchant Navy, and sailors are not all big hairy men with tattoos all over them. Some of the people are like me and my friend Diane here, and we are definitely not big and hairy with tattoos on our chests.' Cheers and some wolf whistles came from them. `It was only on my return from my first trip that I found out what it appears that you all know now, and that is that not only was I born here, but appear to own the bloody place. Oops! Excuse me vicar,' I said with my eyes opened wide in innocence and turned to look at him. They all laughed as he did.

Sorry about that. The Navy does that to you, teaches you bad words.' Once again there was laughter and, I bet you've learnt more than that one Lady Francis' from the crowd, which kept the laughter going. I held up my hand so that I could continue, and the noise subsided.

`So the first thing I did when I found this out was to ask the vicar to seek out those who control my affairs and see that this village should be given a hall. This hall, a place that will not belong to me, but to you. For the people who live here and to be used by you. Now I would like to thank all of you who have helped to build it and to all that helped to decorate it for this day. To show my appreciation for what you have done, my two friends and colleagues from the Navy and I, will give you a show. This is what we do at sea. We entertain the people who travel on our ship. There will be refreshments and eats after the show, and when that runs out, tough. You'll have to go next door and see Dave.' Cheers at that and I held my hand up again.

`Now let's get started for I've said all that I'm going to say because I've got to save my voice for you inside. So for you and this village I declare this village hall open.' I then cut the ribbon with the scissors that Donald had passed to me, and all the people there clapped and cheered.

`Three cheers for Lady Francis!' was called out, and so they did, making me blush. Donald took my arm, and beckoning to Diane and Ralph to follow, led me into the hall.

`Oh it's wonderful,' I exclaimed, giving Donald's arm a hug. The main lights were on and the curtains had been drawn. There was bunting everywhere, along the walls, draped in and out of the crossbeams. Streamers hung down, making a slight rustle as the air from the open door caught them. I couldn't count the number of balloons in clusters everywhere. The stage curtain at the far end went from wall to wall and had been covered with little silver stars that twinkled in the hall lights. I liked the idea of the curtain hiding the dressing room door and that of the storeroom. That would mean that when the stage was revealed, their eyes would not be distracted to the doors on either side.

Chairs filled the floor of the hall in rows leaving an aisle down the middle and one at each side. We walked down to the curtain and I could hear people filling the hall behind us as Donald pulled aside the curtain for us to go up the few steps into the dressing room. This could still have a bit more done to it, but it was sufficient for our first time here. There was a curtain that led through to the stage, and following Donald, we went through and found another curtain had been put up on a half circle rail.

`That's so you can have the lights on in the dressing room, and can come through and pull the curtain behind you before opening this one. That way, light doesn't spill out onto the stage and spoil an entrance,' Donald said proudly.

`Damn fine idea,' Ralph commented, which I could see pleased Donald.

`Now with the lights...'

`Lights! I'd forgotten about them. Who's going to work them?' I asked with a gasp.

`I am, silly. The curtain comes back this far so that anybody can stand here and work the switches without being seen. Also I've got the record player here ready with the records in the right order and my list. See, all the switches are labelled, so a child could work them. I've been practising on them this afternoon.' He turned one on and a yellow light fell upon the piano.

`That's great,' said Ralph going over and lifted the lid and quickly ran his fingers across the keys.

If you sit down Ralph,' Donald said, and open the music.' Ralph did this and Donald pressed another switch and a thin beam of light fell straight down onto the music. It was a tight concentrated beam that really couldn't be seen from out front.

`That's terrific sir,' Ralph still wouldn't call him Donald, yet.

`One last thing. There are numbers chalked on the floor. When I whisper that number out, that's where to stand to get the spotlight for solos and duets. Right. Now how long do you need before beginning, so that I can keep the natives from getting restless?' Donald asked, and I think he was enjoying his role as a stage manager.

`Two minutes?' I said, looking at Diane who nodded. We would start the show with what we were wearing, the two minutes was for us to check over our make-up. Donald looked through a little gap in the curtain especially made for the light operator to see into the hall.

`The place is full,' he whispered, and then went out through the curtains fold and stood before the audience and raised his hands. He told me afterwards, because we were just checking our faces, and were back out just as he finished speaking.

`Ladies and gentlemen. We are being accorded a rare privilege today for the opening of this hall, because the show you are about to see, is just one program that passengers on a big ship have to pay quite a bit of money to watch. So don't expect to get this kind of thing every week. Now the performers are, as you know, our own Lady Francis, and her co-stars are Diane and Ralph. Now if you will all settle down, the show will begin.' There was applause for this little introduction as he slipped back behind the curtain.

Isn't this exciting,' he burbled. Are we ready?' We all nodded, and Donald used one of these new dimmer switches that gradually reduced the lights in the hall till they went out.

He then opened the curtains and switched on the spotlights to reveal the three of us in the middle of the stage, Ralph, being the taller, and male, in the middle. Then the record started and we were off. It's corny now and the butt of jokes, but for the period, it was a well known introductory start. It was "Happy days are here again", which brought forth a good response in clapping when we'd finished. The lights changed and Ralph went to the piano and I sang a solo, to great applause. Then a singing and dance duet with Diane, who then had her solo. Back to a duet, this time, Ralph and myself. Then to show our versatility, I sang "La Paloma" in Italian and later, "No Regrets" in French. There were more songs and dances and before we knew it, the finale came and we'd been on stage for three hours.

We bowed and curtsied and the curtains closed to what was, for such a small audience, a tumultuous applause. We took three curtain calls and Donald had a smile on his face as wide as a Cheshire cat as he kept opening and closing the curtains. At the end of our third call, I stepped forward and raised my hands for silence, which was slow in coming, such was their appreciation of our efforts.

`On behalf of my friends here with me, and the vicar hiding behind the curtain there, we thank you for the kind response to our show. Now please help yourselves to the refreshments,' and the curtain then closed on us. I could hear the scraping of chairs as they started to move about, Dave would be dispensing the drinks, so I knew that that department would be fine.

Donald gave me a hug and a kiss behind the drawn curtain, and then gave Diane a kiss and a huge slap on the back for Ralph.

`That was wonderful! You were all great! Congratulations,' he said most enthusiastically. We went into the dressing room where Diane and I wiped our faces clean and got changed as Donald took Ralph out into the hall to get a beer. When we were dressed and made up our faces again, we went out to join everybody.

I lost count of the number of times my hand was shaken, and there were many bobs from the women and touching of caps from the men. Diane got a couple of kisses, but I think they didn't dare to try to be so familiar with me.

Flora was there with her daughter, Beatrice and I also saw Mrs Coggins, and I overheard her say to someone.

`This used to be my garden.' I smiled at that, her with her rent cut in half. The drinks were finishing as was the food and people were just beginning to drift away and I saw that it was just on nine o'clock. We collected out things, and with shouted goodbyes and calls of good luck, jolly good show etc, we left the hall and made our way down to the house. Donald had given the keys of the hall to one of his choir to turn out the lights and lock up. The cleaning up process could wait till the next day.

We were a happy foursome as we had drinks in the parlour for a very successful rehearsal. Then I suddenly remembered that I hadn't phoned Eddie for the mornings run to the ship. I slipped across to the vicarage and phoned him. He'd guessed that I'd forgotten, but he hadn't and would be with us at ten in the morning, so that was all set, and I went back to the house.

It was a merry evening, but it was a bit forced because both Donald and I knew that this would be our last night together for at least four months. I think my love for Donald showed because I seemed to find myself clinging to his arm for most of the evening. Eventually we wound it up, and I made no secret of it to Diane and Ralph that I would be going to bed with Donald, still hanging onto his arm as we said our goodnights. Diane gave Donald and me a kiss and I even got a kiss on the cheek from Ralph.

`Well sir, we might have got off on the wrong foot, but I'm glad I came and it has been very nice to have met you,' he said as they shook hands.

`Next time you come, it's Donald, and not sir, understand?'

`Yes sir,' he grinned as we left and went across to Donald's place.

It was with a feverish haste that I got into bed and made Donald make love to me. I wanted it brutal. I urged him to push harder, to hurt me so that I would still be able to feel him for a long time after. I think he understood the whys of it, for he rammed into me as hard as he could, his balls thumping against me, and his grip fierce as he came inside me. I wanted more and cried when he'd finished, and after our washing, he sucked on me till I came, but still I cried. I clung to him after we had finished, my legs holding one of his so that we could feel our penises touching, and in that position, I fell asleep.

Donald was roused enough in the morning for him to take me again. I kept pushing back to meet his forward thrusts, slamming my backside into his thighs, urging him deeper and to give me pain. We were both slippery with sweat when I felt him erupt inside me, and I squeezed him with all my might to get those few extra drops out of him. But all good things come an end, and he finally withdrew from me, and we had our shower, and I got dressed, ready for travelling. I took care with my make-up, because I wanted to look my best for him to remember me by.

I didn't want breakfast, so it was just two cups of coffee as we waited for the moment when the car would pull up and take me away from him. Tears came to my eyes when it did stop outside, and I clung to Donald, kissing him for all I was worth, not caring about smudging my lipstick. He held me tight as we whispered our farewells and there were tears in his eyes too.

I then ran down the path and got into the back seat of the car. Ralph was helping Eddie with the one trunk and our cases. Diane got in beside me as Ralph got in the front, and with Eddie finally getting in, started the car and did his turn and we pulled away. I was waving at Donald while Diane was waving at Beatrice from the other side.

There were some more waves from the villagers who saw us go by, and then we were out of the village and on our way. Ralph had turned out to be as good as Diane had said, and he was most enthusiastic about going to sea and doing the shows with us, and that he had a lot of ideas running around in his head that we should try later on.

He was even good at telling jokes, adapting them like the one he told in one of our shows. `Two of the villagers, I'm not going to name names, rolled out of Dave's one night, very worse the wear for drinking his beer. They staggered a way down the road when one sees a mirror lying on the path. He picks it up and stares at it for some time before he turned to his friend. I've since this face before, but I just can't put a name to it. Give it here, the other drunk says and he looks at it hard. Why you bloody fool he cried, it's a picture of me.' Boom, boom.

We chatted and laughed all the way to Tilbury, and I got Eddie to drop off Diane and Ralph at the union offices to pick up his papers, and he took me on to the ship with our luggage. Eddie had to make two trips to bring it all up to our cabin. I'd fixed a drink for him, and he gasped that he needed it as he drained the glass in one go. I counted out his fare and he said his thanks and put it away.

`Ready for the bonus,' I asked with a smile, licking my lips.

`Been looking forward to it all week,' he said with a grin, stretching out on Diane's bunk. I knelt down and undid his buttons and pulled out his already erect cock.

I'm sure it gets bigger every time I see it,' I said, and he grinned as I put my mouth over him and I liked to hear the sigh he always gave as the warmth enveloped him. I sucked and jerked on him till he came in a flood of semen, which I rolled around inside my mouth before swallowing. Taste is getting better too. Just lay off the salt next time,' I said, licking up and down his shaft, giving it the odd nibble before sucking him once more to clear the last out of him. There,' I said, getting up and smoothing down my dress as he put himself away, it will be at least four months before we can do that again.' I told him what date we were due back, and he gave me his thanks for the bonus and left me there on my own.

I had to wait for Diane and Ralph to come back before signing on, so I made myself a drink and sat down on her bunk. I suddenly felt very lonely and miserable. The ship was very quiet in the crew's quarters and I was there all alone with my thoughts. The first being that I must be a slut. I'd only kissed Donald a few hours ago and I'd already had another man's cock in my mouth. The second was when would I be able to feel another one inside me.

Oh I love you Donald, but I can't help myself. The tears had started to roll down my face without me actually crying except for the odd dry sob. I must have had at least another three large gins before Diane and Ralph showed up. Diane took one look at me and kept Ralph out of the cabin.

`Back in a mo',' she said, grabbing his suitcase and went out closing the door. She was back in a few minutes and sat down and cuddled me.

Christ, you must be half pissed already,' she said as I hiccuped, and just look at the mess you've made of your face!'

`Don't you start on me, I feel bad enough as it is,' I wailed.

`I'm sorry darling, I shouldn't have said that. Is it leaving Donald?' I nodded and gave a sniff, and she gave me a handkerchief for me to blow my nose on. She got up and came back with a wet flannel and wiped my face clean. Then she got me up and sat me down in the chair.

We can't go down to sign on with you looking like this,' so I sat there while she made up my face for me. Right,' she said when she'd finished, `you'll pass muster if you don't speak. Don't say anything. Just sign your name and I'll get you back up here, okay?' I nodded dumbly and stood up, slightly swaying. I followed her as best I could and we went to Ralph's cabin where Diane knocked on the door and he came out.

`Watch out for that bum boy in there,' I slurred, waving a finger in the vague direction of his cabin.

`Oh shit. She's pissed,' he hissed at Diane.

`Shut up. She's missing Donald, that's all.'

`I miss my mum too!'

One more word like that and I'll fucking deck you,' Diane angrily hissed at him. Now we've got to get her signed on, so fucking help me.' So between them they got me down to the dining saloon and I think that Diane was praying that I wouldn't fall over in front of everybody. We stood in the queue and shuffled along till I passed over my books and had to wait for him to point where I had to sign the book. He gave me a strange look, but said nothing as I left the table, Diane's hand under my elbow and Ralph on the other side to keep me steady.

We got into the cabin and Diane told Ralph that she would see him later, after she had got me to bed. With the door closed, she started to undress me. I wanted another drink. She said no. I said yes. So it went on till she gave in and poured me a small one. I then let her finish undressing me while I emptied the glass. It's quite an effort to get somebody else up into a top bunk when they can't really help themselves. My top half was on and she was trying to push the bottom half up when her hand almost squashed my tackle as I finally made it.

`You nearly ruined my girlhood,' I giggled before falling back and passing out.

With me safely in my bunk and covered up, Diane got Ralph to retrieve the trunk, which we had kept falling over while doing the undressing, to take up top. She showed him the dressing room and went through the routine of what his duties were apart from just being an entertainer. The times and where we had our meals etc., the rest he would pick up as we went along.

I woke up and looked at my little travelling clock on the ditty box shelf and saw that it was just on seven. I sat up and remembered that I had been drunk the night before. My hand went to my head, automatically expecting it to start pounding, and was most surprised to find that I felt great. No headache, nor hangover, just feeling rather ravenous for food. I swung off the bunk and landed like a cat on the deck and knelt down at Diane's bunk and gave her a kiss.

`Wake up sweetheart, it's showtime,' I said sweetly, not doing my usual thing off whipping the bedclothes back with a shout.

This I could get used to,' she mumbled, if you were to wake me like this every morning, I might get to like you. Give me another kiss to see if I'm not dreaming.' So I gave her a long, deep loving kiss.

I said a kiss, not sex. Save that for later,' she said opening her eyes and giving me a smile. Oh shit. You look too bright. I think you were better last night,' again, spoken with a smile.

`I'm sorry about that, but I think it was because the last proper meal I had was breakfast, two days ago. It's been odd bits since then, plus the fact I suddenly felt so lonely while you were down at the offices. So a good breakfast would put me back on the right track, so up girl. It's sailing day today!' and I whipped the covers back.

Bastard,' she said, I should have drowned you last night,' as I got into my dressing gown and with my things in my hand, went for a shower.

I had my underwear on and was doing my face when she came back into the cabin. She got dressed and then we changed places for her to make-up while I got my dress out and put it on, adding my brooch to just above the left padded breast. When she was ready, we banged on Ralph's door, and he was already waiting for us. As we went down to the dining saloon, Ralph said, `I know now what Francis meant about my cabin mate. Didn't dare turn round with him there in that small space.'

I think David did quite often,' laughed Diane, and I laughed too. We sat down and had a damn fine breakfast. Must have changed the breakfast cooks,' Diane quipped.

I must say you look very smart Ralph,' I said, and meant it, for he was very well turned out. You'll probably get mistaken for a passenger.'

I'm sorry,' he started off. I should have complimented you and you too Diane, you both look lovely this morning.'

Look Ralph,' I said, waving my fork at him, if you keep saying sorry every time you speak to me, I'm going to end up a fucking neurotic.'

`Sorry,' he said, and then started spitting out scrambled egg from his full mouth as he laughed. We couldn't help but laugh with him. He made no remark about my behaviour last night, and we linked arms as we went up to our stations to prepare for the onslaught of passengers, and I thought that we were all going to get along very well.

They started boarding at ten and Diane and I answered the usual questions, giving the answers or directions as the flow came past us. One man then stopped in front of me who seemed no different from the others with questions to ask. His was about mid forties, greying slightly at the temples. Clean shaven with nice even features, well dressed and spoke nicely, showing clean white straight teeth when he smiled.

Ah, a friendly leopard I see,' his eyes on my brooch as he moved aside the lapel of his overcoat to reveal a similar brooch. It's nice to meet one of the family. My name is Patrick Delafonte and you must be the Queen of the Seas.' He offered his hand and I took it with the intention of shaking it, but he brought it up to his lips and kissed it. I saw the eyebrows go up on the Assistant Purser, but the hell with him.

`You have no need to tell me your cabin number, your suite is this way sir,' I said, giving a hand sign to the stewards with his baggage, turned and led him to the suite that I privately called the lair. I took the key from him and opened the door and let him go in first, and then followed him. Bags in there please, I said to the two stewards, indicating the closed door to the bedroom.

`How did you know?' he asked with a smile.

A leopard knows its own lair,' I smiled sweetly back at him. The stewards came out, and I saw him pass them a five pound note, which almost caused some forelock tugging, before they went out. Drink's cabinet is over there,' I pointed out, `and the usual facilities are through the bedroom.' He had taken off his overcoat and thrown it over the back of a chair as he moved over to the cabinet.

`Drink?' he asked over his shoulder as he placed two glasses on the open shelf.

`I'm on duty sir.'

`The name is Patrick. Drink?'

`Just a small one then please.'

`Gin and tonic isn't it?'

`Yes please,' I said, somehow not being surprised that he knew. He passed me the drink and with his in his other hand, waved me to a chair.

`Please do sit down. I cannot until you do, and I'm dying to get off my feet.' I laughed at that and sat down.

`I'm like that sometimes,' I said, as he then sat down near me.

`The lion and leopard are strange creatures of the wild are they not? They both hunt the same prey and yet never lie down together, do they?' It was, I saw, a verbal challenge. He knew my name, my drink, so he obviously knew the rest too.

`Only when there is danger that threatens do they seek the company of each other, or feel the need of protection from another kind of predator,' I said with a smile, licking the rim of my glass.

`Well answered Francis. What am I?'

`A predator first, a leopard second.'

`Very astute. Carlos was right. He said that the leopard should beware the lion, because the claws are always hidden, but kept very sharp.'

`He too is very astute then to have realised that fact.'

By God I like you Francis,' he said, downing his drink and getting up to pour another one. Your tongue is like velvet, but I believe it could also be as sharp and as quick as a rapier.'

`A rapier can only pierce the body or heart. The sword is a better analogy. That can cleave the heart as well as the body.'

`That you have already done if you but knew it,' he said enigmatically.

`I must be going,' I said, finishing my drink and standing up and smoothing down my dress. He quickly came over and put his arm round my waist.

`I'm sorry Francis. I shouldn't have started that verbal duel and I apologise. Can I see you again, in an unofficial capacity?'

`To answer you to end the verbal duel as you put it. The leopard is the faster of the two animals and will eventually catch the lion.'

`When is that?' he asked.

`During the mating season,' I said sweetly, giving him my empty glass and leaving the suite.

I walked back down the passageway with my knees shaking. There was I, not quite sixteen and holding my own in a battle of wits with a man more than twice my age, but one that I would get into bed with at the drop of a hat. When I got back to my station, the Assistant Purser glared at me.

`Why were you gone so long?'

`He wanted to know an awful lot about the ship, and especially of its officers, and my opinion of them.'

`Why did he kiss your hand, and how did you know that he had a suite and not a cabin?'

Jealous?' I snapped back at his tone of voice. He's a gentleman, which you are not. He is also a close friend of the Leopardi family who happen to have a suite on a permanent booking, or didn't you know that?'

That's what I like to hear, especially from a hostess,' came the voice of the Purser who had come up behind us. Lyon isn't it? Being able to pick out the right passenger for the right suite. Well done!'

Oh shit, I thought. Now I'm going to have that prissy Assistant Purser on my tail now for hearing that from his boss. Diane winked at me.

You can kiss my hand if you wish,' she said to him, offering it up with a nice innocent smile. He scowled at her. Well if that's your attitude, you might as well kiss my arse as well! Come Francis, the air is stale in this corner of the deck.' She took my arm and walked me over to the other side of the entranceway.

Well done,' I said, but he's going to be after both of us now.'

Don't worry about him. I'll talk to Ralph's cabin, er, friend. I can't say mate can I?' and giggled, and he'll tell him what I know, so he'll leave us alone.' I wanted to ask her what she meant by that, but more passengers were coming aboard and I forgot about it. Shortly after that came the welcome news that visitors were to go ashore as we were about to depart.

This being my third departure from Tilbury, I was now getting blasé about the fact we were leaving England. Ralph wanted to see us leave, so Diane and I went down below and grabbed an early lunch before heading back to our cabin. She poured us both out a drink as I took off my dress and hung it up. She too then took hers off, hanging it next to mine, and we sat on her bunk as we sipped at our gin.

`You miss Donald, don't you?' she asked kindly.

`Especially on the first day I do, yes. When I was here waiting for you two to come aboard, I felt so lonely and adrift, if you know what I mean. I wanted someone to hug, you even if I couldn't have Donald.'

`Second best huh?' she said, taking another sip.

`No Diane, it's not second best at all. I love you as much as I do Donald, but there are slight differences, or hadn't you noticed,' I gurgled, trying to hold the laugh in, and then she laughed too. She put her arm round me and gave me a squeeze.

`I love you too Francis. Well I showed you that in front of that pompous ass up there!'

`That you did,' and I gave her a kiss. A kiss that had flavour. Not of gin you fool, but one that had meaning, a depth that wasn't really of passion but more of feeling. A tenderness that lingers long, even after the lips have parted, a sweet feeling of a gentle love or song that never fades from the mind. Diane gently took the glass from my hand and put it with hers on the shelf and pulled me back onto the bunk.

Remember when you pretended to be someone else for me,' she said softly, kissing me, well it's my turn now. Make love to me as you would Donald, and call out his name whenever you want to.'

Tears came to my eyes as I kissed her and roused myself on her body. As we broke apart for her to roll over onto her front, she passed me an open pot of cream from the shelf. A touch to me and a touch to herself before she rose up onto her knees and presented herself to me. I closed my eyes and pushed myself slowly into Donald. I rode her to the accompanying sounds of our grunts and groans as I fucked her as I would have done Donald. With tears in my eyes, I pushed and bored her till with a final straining, came, punching out my seed into her, getting the relief that my balls needed. I washed myself and then her and got back onto the bunk and we cuddled until we drifted off to sleep.

It was late afternoon when we awoke, and we lay together and talked, as we still had lots of time before the captain's cocktail party. I pulled the blanket up over us as it was getting a bit colder now. We could feel the steady vibration of the ship's engines and a slow movement of a roll of the ship, which told us that we were now out of the Thames and in, or approaching the English Channel.

That was some showdown between Donald and Ralph, wasn't it,' Diane giggled. I thought they were going to come to blows.'

My money would have been on Donald. He's not that much of a Christian to turn the other cheek,' I said somewhat irreverently, but they made up in the end. Though there was one comment Ralph made that I certainly picked up, and I thought Donald would have,' I mused, `but then, maybe he did, but chose to ignore it.'

`What was that?' Diane murmured from under the covers.

`Something about if he hadn't known, he would later have made a fool of himself. Which I took to mean that he fancied me when he first saw me.'

Darling. If I was a lesbian, I'd still fancy you. God! Some time I wish I was a few years younger and looked like you.' She pulled the covers down from her face. I shouldn't really say this, so don't hate me for it, please? But sometimes, and I kick myself afterwards, I get so jealous. There, I've said it and now I hate myself,' and she started to cry. I didn't know what to do. I held her tight and kissed her and kissed at her tears.

You're so young and beautiful and you're not even a girl!' and off she went again, and I patted, cuddled, stroked and kissed her again till she finally stopped. You're so beautiful, it hurts, and you've such a divine figure,' she hiccuped a laugh there, in a dress I mean, that all the men look at you, drooling, and don't give me a second look,' and off she went again. It was several minutes before she was coherent again. I'm sorry Francis, truly I am, and I should be ashamed of myself. You don't hate me for it? Please tell me that you don't?' I told her I didn't.

I knew I looked good when properly made up, but then, I had always thought that Diane had the more poise because of the fact that she was a woman, where I was just a pretender. I told her this, and that I could never hate her, because she meant so much to me, and this seemed to comfort her somewhat. But it was still skirting the issue that I had wanted to explore, and that was the remark of Ralph's. He had fancied me when he thought I was a girl, but was he that much of a heterosexual that he wouldn't think of me in any other light as being a boy in drag? What I was really trying to get at, was Diane in any way interested in Ralph in a sexual way, because if not, then maybe I could become interested in him in a way that I would not have with David.

She had gone off at a tangent that had put me back to square one with this dilemma that I was facing in terms of my sexual proclivity, and that was to have or have not, twisting a Hemingway tale to suit my thoughts. I wasn't going to get an answer one way or another on this matter as she was now, sobbing at her own admission of her lack of faith of my love for her.

So the question of whether she had any designs on Ralph had to be put on the back burner for now, because if she wanted him, I did not want to compete and cause a rift between us. I think she knew that if a cock was standing up, I'd try to be the first in the queue to want to sample it, and I think that that was the root, if you'll pardon the pun, of the problem.

We kissed and cuddled, but it hadn't resolved anything, so I turned my thoughts to the leopard above. Now he wanted me, of that there was no doubt. He knew exactly who I was and what I would, and could do. But I was not prepared to become a whore for the Leopardi's family of friends. He would have to woo me, instead of thinking that I would jump into his bed at the snap of his fingers. I think he had already gotten that message. That would come later if he could prove he was as good a lover as Carlo. I fancied him yes, but I was not going to throw myself at him.

Diane started to stir and I had to come back down to earth, so to speak as we were on the seas. We got up and stripped off our underwear and went and had a shower. Back in the cabin, it was usually me that made up first, so I was sitting down doing just that, when Diane came up behind me and put her hands on my shoulders and kissed my neck and held me.

`I'm sorry for what I said, truly I am. I love you and what I said was pure jealousy. Please forgive me, please!' I put my hand up and placed it on hers and looked at her through the mirror, and I could see the tears of remorse in her eyes.

`Diane, you could have called me all the names you wanted to, and in some cases I might have deserved them, but when you love someone, they can become the opposite and be the means to convey the true feelings. I love you as both sister and lover and there are not many of us around that can say that. There's nothing to forgive. You've shown that you love me in many ways, and no matter what else you may say, you'll never be able to change that.'

Oh you sweetheart, and now you've made me cry again,' the tears starting to roll down her face. She gave me a hug and said, what has remained with me ever since. Now I know why Donald loves you. You might not know it, but Donald does, the village does, and now I know, that you really are a Lady.'

Tears came to my eyes now, and damn it, I had to wipe my eyes and mascara off and start all over again. I finally was satisfied on my appearance in the mirror and gave up the seat for Diane, who was now dressed for her turn at the mirror while I dressed. I had now learnt the knack of pulling on my stockings first and then clipping the back studs to the suspender belt before pulling it up to my waist and clipping it at the back before attaching the front studs. This way, when I straightened up, they were tight to my legs without getting a wrinkle in them.

My cock was standing out in front of me as usual, and then I put on my padded bra, still wishing that I had breasts to put in it instead of padding. No dancing so no panties before I put on my cocktail dress, now being able to pull up the zip at the back on my own.

Girded as it were for battle, we sallied forth from our cabin, and collected Ralph, impeccably dressed, from his cabin, uttering oaths and what he was likely to do in the near future to the other occupant, we went to the party. On the way up I hatched a plan to deal with Ralph's cabin partner in the not too distant future.

We went up the companionway to the deck where the lounge was located. I was with Diane with Ralph preceding us, and I thought that he had a good pair of buns and wondered if Diane was ever going to make a move on him. He might be averse to the other occupant of his cabin wishing to put it to him, but what would his reaction be if I asked him to put it to me. No I said, as I mentally slapped myself. I didn't think he would be capable of hiding it from Donald if he did, and that would be disastrous, so I sighed, and followed those buns of his up to the lounge.

We mingled with the passengers, chatting, and at six o'clock on the dot, the Captain appeared, and to my surprise, Clement was just behind him, resplendent with his Chief Officer's bars up on his shoulders as well as the full stripes on his sleeves. I'd forgotten that he would be sitting for his Master's Ticket, and he obviously had passed.

The Captain was of course, our old Chief Officer, having been promoted, with our old Captain taking over the latest addition to the fleet, so we all knew each other. But this wasn't the time or place to offer congratulations, for this party was for the passengers.

It's surprising how people can be herded like sheep. The Captain starts off on one side of the lounge, and as people are introduced, he slowly moves across the room. If you're not aware of it, it's not noticeable. As they, who have had the honour of shaking his hand, are edged off to the right, he was slowly edging to the left. Therefore, there is no real displacement of passengers and it is a clever art of herdsmanship.

In our sphere of presenting the passengers, I came up against Clement several times with the first bunch, and I was able then to present him and at the same time, add my congratulations to him on his promotion. This delighted some of them when I told them of how he was so brilliant, that it wouldn't be long before he was a Captain himself. I grinned as he tried to cover his embarrassment over this, especially as it was only the elderly women that I told.

Then I bumped into Patrick. Gentlemanly as ever, he bowed over my hand and kissed it. Do all men of his calibre take lessons in this art of bygone chivalry, I asked myself? It was only the German's who actually clicked their heels together as they did this. Sadly, the fashion has almost been lost with the coming of the new generation.

`Francis my dear, the pleasure of seeing you again is all mine,' he said with a smile.

`Ah, the predator is stalking his prey while the leopard waits for his prey to be within reach,' I said with an equal smile.

`But what if the prey does not come within reach of the leopard, what then?' he smugly asked.

`Then the leopard must prepare and lay out the bait, and he may then be rewarded by catching what he seeks,' I answered.

`And what, pray tell me, should be the bait that the leopard lay out for his prey?'

`That sir, is what the pup should learn at his mother's teat!'

By God, you've done it again!' he laughed. Francis, you are a jewel. A gem! I must bow to you,' and to my consternation, in the middle of the lounge, he did just that, and kissed my hand again into the bargain. `For one so young, you have the wisdom of the ancients and speak the words of a sage.'

`Thank you sir, and now may I present you to the Captain of our ship?'

I began circulating again after this because we were now getting the first dinner sitting passengers coming up for their free drinks. I saw George, and he caught my eye and winked at me, but I ignored him. There's a time and a place for everything, and this wasn't either, because both of which would be of my own choosing. There were quite some good looking fellows amongst the horde, as Diane pointed out to me later, but I had my own plans.

Patrick Whatsisname might think that he is the predator and I the prey, but he didn't have the bait that I had. Well, I must admit that the bait he did have, was between his legs, and that was what I wanted, but it would be on my terms. It was almost an impasse, as I wanted him as much as he wanted me, but this time, I wanted to give and take on equal terms.

Well the evening finally finished, and we went into our dressing room where it was a relief to take off those high heels and put my feet up. We'd ordered some drinks and George brought them, giving me a smile before he left.

`Well how was your first day Ralph?' I asked.

`Very exciting, but bloody tiring.' Diane and I laughed.

`Wait till he gets a kid's party,' Diane said, and we laughed again.

`What do you mean?' he queried.

`We have to host any children's party. We take it in turns, but we'll give you a break for you to see one of us do the first one. Then it'll be your turn after that. It's your turn I believe?' Diane said sweetly to me.

`Thank you for reminding me,' I groaned.

`Then there's the ballroom dancing lessons,' Diane said.

`Fill me in,' he said.

`That's my line,' I said drily, and they both laughed.

You'll be in great demand for that. Twice a week in the afternoons for an hour we have to dance with old codgers and lechers. Supposedly to teach them dance steps like the waltz or foxtrot. The old dears are going to love having you in their arms.' It was his turn to groan. But, there again, there might be some nice chicks who would also like to be whirled round by you.'

`That sounds better.'

`But don't bet on it. I can tell you that they'll be outnumbered,' I put in.

`Okay. Now what's on for tomorrow then?' he asked.

`Nothing, thank Christ. Except for our opening show in the evening. So all we really have to do is run over it sometime during the day. After lunch okay?' Diane asked. I agreed and so did Ralph, and with that, we finished our drinks and made our way down below.

Undressed and with our clothes put away, make-up off and faces washed, we were in our bunks with the lights off.

`I wonder what Ralph looks like without his clothes on?' I said idly into the dark.

Francis!' came the shocked voice from below. You shouldn't be thinking things like that.'

`Why not? He is rather good looking.'

`Why not is because I was thinking the very same thing,' Diane laughed. I laughed too and then switched my thoughts to wondering what Patrick Whatsisname would look like naked. Would he be as big as Carlo? No was the answer to that question. Nobody else could be as big as he was, but it would be nice to find out, I mused as I fell asleep.

We did the same show for our opening night as we had done in the hall and got as big a reception as that night. It's very rewarding and satisfying to hear the applause after you've done your best to please the audience. Flushed, and with happy smiles on our faces, we left the stage and retired to the dressing room.

`That was great!' said Ralph, flopping down in his chair, fanning himself. I was hot too, and could feel the sweat trickling down my back and into the cheeks of my arse.

We should get a fan in here,' Diane said, also fanning herself. I'll see if I can round one up for tomorrow.'

`Well I'm for a shower and bed,' I said, getting up.

`No drink?' Diane asked.

`I'll have one after I get out of this wet dress and showered,' I replied.

`Good idea,' and she got up too. Ralph followed suit, and we went down below.

We were back in the routine and it didn't take Ralph long either. We generally had a late breakfast, a big one at that, because we only snacked for lunch and it was usually a light dinner at six. It's not good to do a show on a full stomach, and we could always find something to eat after the show if we wanted it.

It was the evening before we were due in at Port Said. I was sitting at the bar at about half past six, when Clement sat down beside me.

`Good evening Gervaise,' he said, signalling the barman, and ordering a gin and tonic for me and a soda water for himself.

Well good evening yourself Mr Chief Officer,' I replied, and congratulations again on your promotion.' I lifted my glass in a toast.

Thank you,' and as he saw me look pointedly at his glass, I'm on watch at eight, so it's a soda water.'

Now that he was Chief Officer, his watch on the bridge was eight till twelve, night and day. The afternoon period between watches was normally spent seeing to the work programme of running and cleaning of the ship, outside, that is. He would have breakfast and dinner at six and lunch at the normal time with the passengers at his table.

Each senior officer had his own table in the saloon where he dined and talked to those passengers allocated to his table. There is a most definite pecking order on board ships for this. The most influential people for various reasons, sit at the Captain's table, then came the Staff Commander's table, the Chief engineer, Chief Officer, and so on down to the most junior of officers.

`Gervaise, my watch duties now, make things very difficult for me to be able to see you. Apart from the fact that my cabin is now so close to the bridge. But there is an empty cabin on B deck that we could meet in if you still would like to spend some time with me. Would you?'

`Yes Clement, I would, but when?'

`Tonight? It would be just after midnight when the watch changes. Is that all right with you?' he asked.

`Yes,' I replied, a warm glow starting in the pit of my stomach.

Thank you darling,' he said, giving me the cabin number and finishing his soda water. See you just after midnight.' Not only was there a glow in my stomach, but butterflies too at the thought of doing it in an empty cabin.

I couldn't wait for the show to finish, and when it was over and we were in the dressing room, I told them to go on and that I would be down later. Diane gave me a wink and asked if I wanted a drink sent in. When I shook my head, she made an O of her mouth and then grinned before she left. I sat there alone till a few minutes to twelve before leaving, and making sure that there was no one to see me, slipped down to the cabin on B deck and went inside.

It was strange to be in a cabin that was bare of possessions and clean. The best thing about this cabin was that it had a bed instead of a bunk. I sat down on it to wait for him, getting some cream out of my bag and placing it ready on the table. It was very quiet and unnerving to just sit there waiting, and when the door silently opened, it made me jump, and he came in. I was up and in his arms as soon as he had closed and locked it. We kissed hard, our lips almost bruising each other as he held me tight.

Oh Gervaise,' he whispered in my ear, how I've been waiting to do this again.'

Me too Clement,' I replied, pressing myself against him and feeling his hardness. Don't let's wait.' I was quickly undoing his shirt, and he had started to take off his jacket and tie. I then undid his belt and he took off his trousers, kicking his feet out of his shoes. We didn't bother about the socks and he stood there naked before me, his erection standing up as proud as a peacock.

Now you,' he said hoarsely, just the dress. I like you with the other things on.' He slipped the straps off my shoulders and the dress fell to the floor. My own little cock was as hard as iron too and the two of them clashed as we held each other tight and fell backwards onto the bed, my breath being expelled by his weight. We kissed and writhed against one another, our cocks rubbing together as we squashed them with our stomachs.

`I can't wait darling,' he said, catching his breath.

`Neither can I,' having the same breathing difficulties. He moved off me so that I could roll over and I then smeared some cream on myself and passed the tube back to him. Then I went up onto my knees, my legs quivering and my thighs trembling as I waited for him. My legs were moved further apart by his hands and I felt his knees come in between them.

Then came the touch I was waiting for, the little nudge at my rear as he positioned himself. The glow in my stomach was now a fire as I relaxed myself and he pushed into me. Glory of glories, my mind cried out as his sword slid into my sheath, filling me with joy as he expanded my insides with that wonderful hot cock. I loved the scratch of his pubic hairs against the cheeks of my bum as he wriggled himself up tight to me, his shaft buried deep in my pit.

It was a most glorious feeling to have that muscle moving backwards and forwards inside me again, expanding and contracting my inner walls. His hands held me firm as he ploughed back and forth in my furrow, delighting me with every forward thrust that came to an end too soon. Holding me very tight up against his thighs, he jerked in short sharp stabs as he came inside me, the head of his cock swelling up each time it shot out his load, till he became still.

I then eased myself down to the bed, holding him tight inside, till I was flat with him on top of me. I kept squeezing my muscle as he gently rocked back and forwards on me, my own cock now started to let go as I fucked the bed under his movements. I gave out a little cry as he pulled out of me, leaving me with an ache in the void.

He got off the bed and washed himself, having to use his hands because neither of us thought to bring a flannel. I too, got off the bed and stood there while he used his wet hands to clean me. I could only run my wet hand over my stomach to clean off my front from my own coming. I said to hell with it, and used the bed cover to dry myself with.

Clement pulled the bed cover off and turned it over so that we could lay back down without getting covered in my sticky mess that I had left there. We lay together, kissing and stroking each other as he told me of the exams he'd taken, and that it was only by giving me up for the return home on the last voyage that had enabled him to do enough studying to pass. He now had his Master's Certificate and it would just be a matter of time before he would be Captain of his own ship. Dead men's shoes he called it. Now it was just a matter of waiting for either death or retirement to take him closer to his goal. With a little help from daddy, I thought. But he had other ideas for this captaincy he was after, about which, I didn't find out till the next time we were together.

We lay there for a couple of hours, kissing and caressing till I was able to get his member standing up again, and I moved down the bed and took it into my mouth. I loved sucking on a hard thick erection, feeling the throb in my mouth as the blood coursed round, heating it as well as making it swell to its largest size. Then to feel him quiver beneath me as I felt the surge coming up through the narrow passage, his balls the cauldron, his penis the conduit, and the head, well, it was the wellhead. Then to have it erupt, his lava shooting out to be captured by my mouth and tongue, his fire quenching my fire. I simply loved sucking a cock and couldn't get enough of it.

I'd turned round on the bed and it was nice to feel his mouth take me in, and soon, I came too, which he took almost as avidly as I did. We licked and cleaned each other before I moved back round for a last kiss and cuddle before we got off the bed and got dressed. It was well past three in the morning, and he would only get a few hours sleep, whereas I could lie in. With a last lingering kiss, he left the cabin and I waited a few moments before leaving myself and go below decks to my own cabin.

I managed to get undressed, make-up off and washed in the dark, and into my bunk without waking Diane, and with nice thoughts of the last couple of hours, fell asleep.

I was awake the same time as Diane, just as perky as ever, notwithstanding the fact I'd only had a couple of hours sleep. I stretched and glowed with the satisfaction that I'd had a good shafting and could still feel the internal effect it had caused. Poor Clement must be really bleary eyed on the bridge as we approached our berth in Port Said.

Ralph was the opposite. He was bubbling with excitement of it being his first ever visit to a city in a foreign country. This was at breakfast, so we finished it quickly and were soon ashore to protect him, as it were. It was just as dirty, with the same dirty people trying to sell us rubbish.

Our own description of these people was for us to call them wogs. Some people say that it is derogatory to use this word, but it was widely used by the people who built the Canal. Wogs is an acronym, because the workers had jackets supplied to them that claimed that they were "Workers On Government Service", hence the name wogs, and it has stuck. But now it is used I know as an epithet for all people of North African origin.

Well we poked about the stalls, Ralph buying a stupid hookah.

`It'll look good at home. At least it will be a talking point.' True. Then Diane found something and held it up. It was a rusty pair of handcuffs.

Any more?' I asked, that germ of an idea I had earlier taking fruit, as I saw them. I went over to her and we found that there were quite a few of them there on the stall. Haggle for two pair,' I said, `and make sure they have keys to fit and work.'

`What do we want with handcuffs?' she queried.

`Not us. Ralph. Well not exactly for him, but we might have a chance to use them on someone who is causing Ralph a problem.'

`Gotcha,' Diane answered with a laugh, and went and haggled and finally got a pair for a couple of shillings. We didn't tell Ralph what they were for in case he let it slip. But, there again, we might not get the chance to use them, though we did, eventually.

We had a beer ashore, but nothing else. We'd heard stories of people who had eaten either at the stalls and even in supposedly decent restaurants that'd finished up spending the next few days sitting on the toilet. I couldn't think of anything worse than being on the stage and be busting for a crap. We still had a show to do that evening, because we would be transiting the first part of the Canal during the evening.

We did our show, but not to a full audience, because they kept drifting in and out as we went through the Canal, though there was not much that they could see. It being very dark over the desert sands. They would see more the next day when we went through the second half if they'd had any sense.

We were just into the Red Sea for our second week of ballroom dancing lessons. Ralph had been exhausted after the first week's two sessions, and as predicted, he was kept on the go the whole time. Diane and I taking it in turns to change the records to give ourselves a break. The odd young girl that did turn up didn't get a look in, so they stopped coming. I could now appreciate how my aunt felt when she had first started to teach me to dance. It's very difficult task to get somebody who hasn't got an ear for music, to go with the tempo and not get their feet mixed up and try to lead off on the wrong foot. Diane and I got to dance with quite a few young men and I'd been propositioned twice already. Diane seemed to have got one fellow on a string, and I didn't think it would be long before she got off with him.

This day, I turned round from the record player and found Patrick Whatsisname before me.

`May I have this dance please?' he asked, taking my hand in his without my giving an answer, and started to waltz me round the floor.

`These lessons are for beginners...'

And I am one,' he interrupted me. I'm beginning to like you very much.' He did dance well and I enjoyed our whirl around the floor. When the music came to an end, we stopped, but he didn't let go of my hand.

`Francis. Why haven't you come to see me? I've been waiting and hoping that you would come.'

`Why should I have gone to your suite?'

Because I want you, I need you Francis. When I first came aboard and saw you, I wanted you.' His hand was squeezing mine tight. Why didn't you come?'

`You didn't ask,' I said simply.

`You mean...'

Yes,' I stopped him. A lady likes to be asked.'

`But you're not...' Again I interrupted him.

`Never ever presume anything. You are relying on hearsay. Am I right?'

`Well Carlo...'

`Might not have been telling the truth? Now what do you want to believe? Am I or am I not what you think? Be careful now with your answer because I have the ear of Carlo at the end of a telephone.' It was a threat that I didn't know if I could back up. I held my breath to see which way he would jump. He broke! And my heart leapt.

Forgive me Francis,' he said, kissing my hand, forgive me for my presumption and I humbly apologise. But with all due respect, I would still like you to come to my suite for a drink or two.'

`Is that an invitation?'

`Yes Francis, it is.'

`Then I accept,' I said with a smile and took his arm.

`Francis!' Diane called out.

My sessions over,' I called back as I was walking away with Patrick, I'll see you later.' I gave a little wave as we turned the corner.

I still don't understand you,' Patrick said as we walked along the deck, arm in arm. I tried to get you to come to me, but you didn't. Why?'

You used the wrong bait to lure the lion,' I said, enigmatically. Look! To put it bluntly,' I had stopped by the ship's rail and looked out at the Red Sea as we sailed further south, `you listened to other people and thought that by snapping your fingers, I would come running to you. That was your mistake. As I said earlier, you used the wrong bait. In fact you didn't have any bait! That's all there is to it.' We then carried on towards his suite and he opened the door and we went inside.

`Okay then, if I hadn't got any bait, why have you come here?'

`Because it was you who walked into the lion's den and took the bait!'

`What bait?'

Me!' I said, and went and kissed him. I had to get you to ask me here, so I prepared the bait and you took it and made the invitation, and I am now here,' and I kissed him again.

Oh you little devil,' he smiled, holding me in his arms, kissing me back, you are also a fox, a Will o' the Wisp, a...'

`Clown, to finish the lyric?' I asked.

`Clown? Never! A Scaramouche maybe.'

`Sabatini. Why not Baroness Orczy? They seek him here, they seek him there etc,' he laughed.

Francis, Francis, you are a treasure,' he said as he spun me round, you have beaten me at my own game, and I salute you,' he said as he finished whirling me around and let me sit down. `Drink?'

`A gin and tonic please. A large one if you don't mind. I like them big.'

`Please Francis, enough. I've conceded. I won't play that game again with you,' he laughed as he gave me my drink and sat down next to me. We looked at each other over the rim of our glasses, both still wary of each other, him more than me, because he still wasn't sure of his ground. So it was up to me to start the ball rolling. I finished my drink and got up and walked to the bedroom door.

`Here is where the action is I believe,' I said, opening the door and walking into the bedroom. He followed me in and stood before me as I turned round and started to undo his tie, then stopped and went and sat on the bed and looked at him. He then finished what I had started and took off his coat, tie and the rest of his clothes while I watched until here was there, naked before me. His erection was large, but not as huge as that of Carlo, for which I breathed a silent thanks.

I got up from the bed and knelt down before him and took his erection into my mouth and gave him a good suck and tease. Then I stood back up and turned to face the bed and pushed the straps of my dress off my shoulders, and with a little wiggle, let it fall from my hips to the carpet.

I knew what he could see. A petite blonde whose hair fell half way between the shoulders and bra strap. A slender waist that was encircled by a suspender belt, the black straps holding up the stockings. Above them were the tight round globes of the buttocks revealed because I wasn't wearing any panties. I coyly looked over my shoulder at him to see the look of lust on his face, and also to see the change it might have when I turned round, which I did to reveal that I was indeed a male and had the erection to prove it.

`Wow. I still wasn't sure, but...oh Francis.'

I held out my arms and he came into them and crushed me to his chest and bore me down onto the bed. Kissing me as his cock dug hard into my stomach. `Francis, Francis,' he said over and over again as he kissed my lips, face and neck.

Patrick, Patrick,' I echoed as his hot breath began to sear my senses, don't make me wait. Fuck me. Please fuck me now.' I was scrabbling for my bag and managed to get out the cream and put it in his hand. He took it from me and was opening the tube as I rolled over, and with the quickest of dabs, he was entering me. I was grateful that he wasn't as big as Carlo, but he was more aggressive and pushed in hard and fast. I grunted as he buried himself deep into me and it was savage and fast, though more frenetic than demented. He had really wanted me I could tell, by the way he tore into me, pushing and boring, with his shaft going faster in and out than any other man I'd known. His fingers dug into my flesh as he came in great shuddering bursts, really pulling my hips back onto him as he did so. His seed bursting like the coloured spray of a rocket in the night sky, coating my insides with his mucous liquid.

He fell heavily on my back when he had finished his coming. I supported him and slowly fell to the bed, bearing his weight, which I didn't mind in the slightest, as I still had that hard cock deep inside. He wasn't as fit as he thought he was, because it took him several minutes before he could raise himself up and pull out of me.

Wash yourself properly and bring back a wet flannel,' I gasped out, and waited till he came back where he then just dropped the flannel on my back. A gentleman would do the honours,' I said, lifting my hips up. He got the message and wiped my backside. Not until then, did I roll over and invite him to come and lay down beside me. He did and I waited until he finally rolled over to face and kiss me.

`That's better, because if you hadn't kissed me, I would have emasculated you,' I said in his ear, my hand holding his balls, giving them a gentle squeeze. 'This is the lion's area of power. I'm ready for more, are you?'

`I surrender Francis, I surrender,' he smiled and I believed him, and gave him a kiss and smiled back at him.

`I liked my prey very much, did you like being the bait this time?'

You can devour me any time from now on my little sweet,' he replied, giving me another kiss. It's you who can snap your fingers, and heaven help me because I've never done it before, will come when you call. What more can I say or do?'

Bring this back to life?' I said, rubbing his flaccid penis in my hand. Or do you think the kiss of life might work?'

`One can but try,' he replied with a smile. So with a kiss, I moved down on the bed and took his limp member in my mouth and started to try and raise the dead. I don't wish to be profane, but that is what I did. Within a few minutes of my tongue, teeth and lips, I brought him back up to a full erection. His emission wasn't as prolific as before, but it was enough to satisfy me and brought pleasure to him. With a smug smile and a licking of the lips, I laid my head down next to his.

`Well?'

You are more than Carlo said,' he said as he turned and hugged me close to him, no wonder he made you a member of the family. I thought you had bewitched him, because you certainly have bewitched me. You are either a devil or a witch. To see you on the stage or even just standing at the bar, you are a beautiful, healthy looking girl that would twist the heart of any man, and yet you're not. That is the twist. Men are going to fight over you and all the women are going to want to scratch your eyes out because you're that beautiful. I think that in years to come, I am going to be proud to say that I once held the Queen of the Seas in my arms and she did me the honour of letting me make love to her.'

`The flannel is over there. I don't need any more of it,' I said, secretly holding his words to my heart.

No Francis,' he said, coming up onto an elbow. I meant every word that I've just said. At first I thought you might be some kind of bimbo, but you cut me down to size at our very first meeting. This is no bimbo I told myself, and then I was taught a very severe lesson which was thoroughly deserved.'

Enough Patrick, enough. You might start to turn my head and that just wouldn't do.' I said with a smile as I looked up into his face. You have obviously guessed why I was given my brooch. Why were you given yours?'

`Ah, now that's a question I can't really answer. All I can say is that I have worked for the family, looking after their interests in London.'

`I know you must have some pull because of being given this suite, so why are you going to Australia?'

`For my health. I don't like the climate in England during the winter.'

`What did you do in England?'

`I was a financial adviser.'

`Was?'

`A slip of the tongue, sorry. I am a financial adviser.'

`I don't think it was a slip of the tongue. You're too well educated for that.'

`Ho ho, I don't think Carlo knows just how cute you are.'

Oh come Patrick,' I said, gently fondling his balls, don't try and shit me.'

`It was during the war that I met the Don, er, that is Vicente Leopardi. I had been recruited into the Intelligence Service because of my peace time work, which was to advise senior bank officials in the fluctuating of currencies throughout the world. We knew that the Germans were counterfeiting our banknotes so that they could disrupt our economy by dropping these notes over England. We had pinpointed that the place where they were printing this forged money as being in Italy. I was parachuted in to meet up with the local insurgents for their help in destroying the plant and any plates that were found.

Vicente was my contact. Well, we found and destroyed the printing plant, and er, he had quite a lot of this money himself, so I helped him get rid of it without losing out on it, if you know what I mean. For that, I was a friend for life. I've since then, been helping the family, and, er, it was thought better if I did it from another country. So here I am in the arms of a most wonderful creature on the way to Australia, and may we never reach there.' He gave me a big loving kiss to which I responded.

Shit!' I suddenly sat up. What's the time?'

`Half six.'

Damn,' I said, getting off the bed and getting my dress from the floor. I've missed dinner and I've got to get ready for tonight's show,' I continued as I struggled into my dress, pulling it down and making sure it was on straight. `I've got to go.' I went to the bed and gave him a kiss.

`Will I see you again?' he asked as I reached the door.

`If you ask me,' I smiled before I left. I shot down below and burst into my cabin. Diane was there, at the little table doing her make-up.

`Where've you been?' she demanded.

Having fun,' I answered her as I quickly undressed and got my bathrobe, so don't bug me now,' as I then ran down to the showers. After a quick wash, I was back again in the cabin as Diane was getting dressed. I sat down and made up my face, and then, just as quick, got dressed.

`Time for a drink at the bar and then I'll tell you all the gory details,' and that brightened her up. So up to the bar we went for this drink before we were due to begin our evening show. I told her that I'd had a delightful afternoon of sex, and when I started to be very specific on what had happened, she called a halt as I guessed she would. Ralph had just arrived, so I would have stopped anyway. He was just in time for a quick drink and then it was time to go to work. I think I did very well that night.

I think you should have sex every night before a show,' Diane said when we were in the dressing room afterwards. I could hardly keep up with you.'

`Sex with who?' Ralph asked.

`You don't want to know,' Diane said.

`Well I'll just check my derriere and see if I can fit you in,' I said and started to giggle.

`Cut that out,' Diane said, giving my arm a slap. I poked my tongue out at her and winked at Ralph, who then blushed.

`See what you made him do,' Diane remonstrated, but I couldn't help but laugh and then she too began to laugh.

To be continued.