THE LIFE I WISH FOR ME {Downton Abbey} Under Construction

2) Today is the day

  Today marks the final day of January, and with February's arrival imminent, we commence packing for my season in London. Upon waking, I donned my dressing gown and approached my vanity to wash my face and hands. Afterwards, I summoned my maid to help me dress, opting for travel-appropriate attire. I selected a new tailored suit from the wardrobe my mother recently gifted me. For now, I've chosen the dark green skirt and a shirtwaist, reserving the jacket and a wide-brimmed hat adorned with rich brown yew ostrich feathers, along with black leather gloves and a dark brown mink stole, for our departure to the train. 

Descending the stairs for breakfast, I left instructions for my maid to pack for London. Upon entering the dining room, I saw Father reading his newspaper, Mary and Sybil already there, engaged in conversation and enjoying their meal. I helped myself to some food from the side table before sitting down to eat. Sybil turned to me and inquired if I was prepared for my season. "It's somewhat daunting, but I'm looking forward to it. I'm ready for this season and quite keen on finding a husband as well," I replied. 

Mary smirked and remarked, "Oh, Edith, there's no need to worry. I'm sure there are plenty of gentlemen in London who are... let's say, less discerning. Perhaps you'll find one who won't flee at the sight of you." Sybil frowned and retorted, "That's not fair, Mary. Edith will fare excellently. She has a lot to offer." Mary arched an eyebrow in feigned astonishment. "Of course, Sybil. She has many... qualities. Her piano playing, for instance." I've always known that I lacked certain qualities. Throughout my upbringing, my mother was more insistent with me than with Mary in mastering the 'ladylike arts' to attract suitable bachelors. She held the belief that if my appearance failed to allure suitors, a sizeable dowry would suffice as a suitable lure. 

Father clearing his throat "Now, Mary, there's no need for that. Edith will have a good season. She just needs to be herself." Attempting to shift the conversation, Edith inquired, "Sybil, you'll be staying with Granny, won't you? I'm certain she'll have plenty for you to do." "Yes, Granny has already outlined a list of activities. I'm actually looking forward to it. It will be wonderful to spend some quality time with her." Mary turned to her "Well, just be careful, Sybil. Granny can be quite demanding. But I'm sure you'll manage. After all, you're the adventurous one."

Edith gently asked, "And what about you, Mary? What will you do while we're in London?" Mary responded nonchalantly, "Oh, I'll manage. I have my own plans. Don't worry about me, Edith. Focus on making an impression." She smirked and added, "Though I'm sure you'll be unforgettable, one way or another." Robert interjected sternly, "That's enough, Mary. Edith, you'll do just fine. Remember, it's not just about finding a husband. It's about making connections and enjoying yourself." Edith nodded, "Thank you, Papa. I'll try to remember that." Mary, feigning innocence, said, "Absolutely, Edith. Have fun. And don't worry about a thing. After all, it's just one season. What could possibly go wrong?" Robert firmly reiterated, "Mary, that's quite enough. Edith, you have our support. We're all behind you."

I held my tongue to avoid saying anything to Mary, determined not to let her ruin the day. Turning to Father, I inquired, "Father, when do we depart for London?" "We will leave for the train before the luncheon begins, so we'll dine on the train and if you now excuse me I have to get ahead of some correspondents before we leave," Father replied. He then folded his newspaper, stood up, and left without another word, leaving Mary, Sybil, and me by ourselves in the dining room. Sybil turned to me once more, questioning the design of my dress for the presentation. I confirmed that I had chosen one, and then I returned to my meal, eager to finish it.

Rising from the dining room, I made my way to the library to inquire if Father would permit me to take Pharaoh for a stroll. Upon entering, I found him engrossed in correspondence at his desk. "Father, may I walk Pharaoh before we depart for the train station?" I asked. "Certainly, darling, his leash is at the front," he replied. "Thank you, Father," I responded, leaving him to his letters. I then retreated to my room where the packing was underway with large leather steamer trunks being packed with my wardrobe and a pile of hat boxes on my bed being put in, I asked Jane to bring me my things so I could don my coat, hat, stole, and gloves. At the entrance, the leash caught my eye; giving it a shake, Pharaoh bounded over. I knelt to secure the leash to Pharaoh and proceeded to open the door. Pharaoh darted out ahead as I shut the door behind us, and together we set off towards the formal gardens.