One Week To Wed. Laurie Benson

to join in the next race.

      Fairs such as this had always been a favourite of his when he was young. He had fond memories of running through them with his brothers and challenging each other to all the games they could. Now, it was an ideal place to overhear rumblings of discontent.

      ‘Shall we see what other forms of entertainment there are?’ he asked Toby.

      ‘There’s archery for friendly competition. Although friendly competition might be too tame for you.’

      Andrew nodded and shoved his hands in the pockets of his coat. That sense of excitement at the chance to best someone in competition ran through his veins. ‘How friendly does the competition get?’

      ‘I’m sure the wagers placed here are far less than you are accustomed to, however I always sensed the amount of the wager was never the incentive with you.’

      ‘Anyone can join in?’

      ‘Yes. Men. Women. Young. Old. It doesn’t matter. It’s all done in good fun.’

      ‘That should make for an interesting experience at least. Will you be joining in?’

      ‘I don’t believe so. However, I think I will be betting on you.’

      ‘That’s if I decide to compete.’

      ‘You were rather a crack shot with a bow when we were at college, if I recall correctly.’

      They made their way up the hill to the front lawn of the house where ten large hay bales with painted targets were facing a large grove of trees. People of various ages stood in the shade, taking turns with the bows and arrows provided. There didn’t appear to be an organised competition from what Andrew could see. It was disappointing.

      He was about to suggest they get some food since the smell of roasting meat was travelling over the light breeze, but then he spied Mrs Knightly and Lady Charlotte talking with a young man waiting to try his luck.