This story is a sequel to 'Roger Indulges the Elderly Princesses'.
The Princess and the Judge
Whilst checking my emails recently, I found this message in my inbox:
Hello Roger,
You may remember that we met at my sister Margaret (Barton's) house when I came to visit her last year. I often think of that wonderful evening and of the pleasure you brought us both. I understand that you have since moved near to where I live and I wondered if you would like to meet again, seeing as we are practically neighbours?
Margaret mentioned to me that you recently moved to this area, so I thought of inviting you to visit one evening whenever you are free. I also thought of inviting along a friend of mine who would love to meet you, as I have told her all about you.
Please let me know if you would like to come and I'll reply with my address details and perhaps suggest some dates that might suit you.
Looking forward to meeting you again soon.
Best wishes
Elizabeth Barton.
I stared at the screen for some time, as my mind replayed the torrid events of the evening I had spent with the 'Elderly Princesses', which is recounted in one of my previous stories with the same title.
I replied as follows:
Dear Elizabeth,
What a delightful surprise to hear from you, also to learn that we now live quite near each other. I would of course be very pleased to accept your kind invitation to visit, and to meet your friend as you suggest.
I am available most weekends so perhaps a Saturday would be best if that suits you?
Regards
Roger Cox.
Thus it was that two weeks later I found myself parking up in the driveway of a lovely old traditional English cottage that was home to Elizabeth Barton. Stepping out of my car, I took time to gaze about and take in the perfect setting of this beautiful old house and garden. It occurred to me that to own an exclusive property like this, located in such a prime area, would indicate that my hostess must be a very wealthy lady indeed.
The front door was flung open as I approached, and Elizabeth stood there saying 'How lovely to see you again Roger, and I'm so pleased you could come.'
After kissing her proffered cheek I presented her with the large bouquet of flowers that I had brought with me.
'Oh you shouldn't have gone to all that trouble' She chided as her face lit up with pleasure, then she added. 'Now come in and close the door behind you' as she turned to lead the way along the hallway to the lounge.
When I entered the room, I saw an attractive looking elderly lady standing there, waiting to greet me with a big smile on her face.
'Alice, this young gentleman is Roger Cox, and this is my friend Alice.' Elizabeth announced by way of introduction.
'I'm delighted to meet you Roger' declared Alice in a beautifully modulated English accent, as we shook hands.
'And I am very pleased to meet you too.' I replied.
'Would you like a whiskey and soda Roger?' Said Elizabeth as she crossed to the drinks cabinet.
'Yes please, and I'm impressed that you remember my drink preference' I replied.
Alice and I sat down opposite each other while Elizabeth mixed our drinks, then after handing them round she went to sit beside Alice on the sofa. I guessed Alice to be in her early 60s, although she looked ten years younger. She was of medium height with a kindly face and wore her short grey hair in a bun. The style of the beautifully tailored clothing that she wore was appropriate for a woman of her years and the excellent quality spoke of her high social standing.