Butterflies

The Manor

   My name is Victoria Meriwether, and I am one of the heirs of the Meriwether estate. My sister Elizabeth Meriwether is one of these many heirs. Although, my brother Francis is going to fully inherit the property and everything else that my father, Edward, had inherited. I am the oldest in the family, and I am 18 years old now. I think of myself as a young woman who is interested in the dark arts and the supernatural. My sister is the opposite, and she'd rather be off trying to get a husband or go looking at the shops downtown. She normally comes bursting into my room frantic about her evening out looking at some of the newest fashions. I'd rather spend my time reading in the library with a spot of English tea. Although I'd rather sit and read up on the most current and latest news I'd normally be pushed into my bedroom to be dressed. Every young woman in this very day and age must be dressed properly. Although today I plan on dressing myself. I carefully got out of my bed and put on my stockings. I put on my drawers and my chemise, and I quickly put on my boots. I reached for the corset sitting on one of the many chairs in my room. I wrapped the hard whalebone around my waist, and I quickly found a problem. I cannot tie my laces pressed up upon my back. I quickly ring the bell for the lady's maid, and she promptly arrived.

" Oh Matilda I believe I can't tie my laces." I said as I turned around and held onto the bedpost

Matilda, the lady's maid, started to pull the laces until I felt the corset become so very tight.

" I thought I could do this all by myself."

" I was little hesitant about letting you go about doing it yourself."

" Well I was a fool to try."

" Well that's all done."

" Thank you Matilda, and now can you help me figure out the rest of this contraption."

" Of course my lady." Matilda said as she and I giggle uncontrollably

Matilda slipped on the corset cover, and then she went off to grab the crinoline. She came back with piles of petticoats and ribbons and anything that would try and perfect my look.

" Matilda there is no need for such extravagance for today." I said with a confused look

" Today your sister insisted that you wear something with such a touch."

" Elizabeth is one to try such a thing on me."

" She insists that you come downtown with her."

" What does this have to do with this dress arrangement."

" She wants to walk you over to one of her friends' homes."

" It is probably one of her many 'to be' husbands."

" Your sister wishes to be a successful and happy woman."

" I know what Elizabeth wishes."

By now my corset cover was on, and my crinoline was fastened on me as well my petticoats which were piled high. Matilda grabbed the large black dress cover went over the petticoats and the crinoline. With my dress nearly complete I grabbed the bodice of my bed behind me, and draped it over myself. Matilda did my hair up in a quick braided bun and tied some ribbons on my lose pieces of hair. I grabbed one of my biggest black hats covered in my favorite black roses. I grabbed my gloves and my draw string bag, and I quickly powdered my hands then put on my gloves, and ran out of my room. I ran down the stairs to the great hall. Then I walked towards the entrance and there stood Elizabeth.

" Oh Victoria darling what took you so very long." said Elizabeth giving me one of her unpleasant smirks

" Well all I have to say is that I was being a bit of a fool."