Blindingham Hall, May 30th 1862

Villiers has excelled himself.

He skittered up to me last Sunday, while I was on the terrace taking tea after church. He was so excited, full of noise and flutter, I could be forgiven for thinking there were three of him.

‘Ma’am, ma’am! I have been told of the most wonderful opportunity to adorn the approach whilst warding off unwelcome visitors.’ He squealed. ‘Not only will this make the gardens so much more divine, your reputation for good taste will reach far and wide. Your eye for natural beauty, wonderful as it already is, will be the talk of the County! If I can be spared to make a trip over to Weddlebridge market tomorrow, Ma’am, I should return with the finest specimen for miles around.’

‘Villiers, calm yourself – what on earth is it that has you in such a turnover?’ I asked him. Before he could answer he danced a tiny jig on the steps and swung down from the balustrade. ‘Oh, Ma’am…I think this is one of my best ideas yet!’

My tea had become cold. Whilst I sent for more hot water, Villiers explained to me in fulsome detail what was to happen. For it was indeed a decision already made. I could no more prevent it than I could sew buttons on the sun.

Thus now, much to my delight, we have a peacock on the lawn!

He is a young one, with no fear of approaching vehicles nor knowledge of what will poison him so for now we have him penned outside the lodge. His markings are a sight to behold. The bright flashes of azure and emerald when he chooses to display his tail remind me of a silk dressing gown I once owned. It was a favourite of mine and much admired by Villiers. I don’t know where it went.

This bird makes the most terrifying noise, and I am given to understand that as he grows in stature and confidence he will become louder and more frightening. My first and most fervent hope is that this will make the Cornbenches think twice before wandering across the field with whatever craft or preserve they have just produced. It will be worth the price of the feed just for that.

Just imagine. My very own peacock! I am beyond happy with Villiers for this suggestion and have resolved to allow more to be brought, since I believe it will need company and constant reminding of its beauty.