Here’s a topical excerpt from Addlestone, the first book of The Addlestone Chronicles trilogy.
“After bundling up against the winter weather, the ‘men’ found Smalbridge, Woburn’s farm manager, at his cottage. He fetched a bow saw and led them to a stand of Scots pines. After cutting one down, they went to the old apple orchard so the young boys could pull down mistletoe from the lower branches. Back at his cottage, Smalbridge made a sturdy base for the tree.
James said to Smalbridge, ‘I trust we’ll see you Wednesday morning.’
‘Since I returned from the Great War, Hattie and I haven’t once missed Boxing Day at Woburn Hall. The Colonel said I could bring my lad now he’s turned eighteen.’
The twins were whinging. They were cold, tired, and probably hungry. As they approached the house, it began to snow. It was a windless morning, and large, dry flakes settled on their shoulders and hats. They left the fir tree on the front steps and entered via the mudroom, shedding boots, gloves, and wool coats.
The household had been busy. Branches from the English holly hedge were hung over doorways and placed on the upper library bookshelves. Dorothy knew the berries were slightly toxic and that small children could be attracted by their bright red colour. Louise took a sprig of mistletoe from Humphrey Minor, raised it above James’s head, and planted a kiss on his cold lips.”