Page 6 of Love, Will

“Of course, my Lord,” Master Burbage replied in my stead and accompanied the Earl to offer him the tour of the theatre. They disappeared backstage and since we had to eat before the play started, we all headed to the tavern. Even though I would have given anything to stay back and spend more time with the Earl.

On our return, the public had already gathered round the theatre, waiting for the main gates to open. We quickly put our costumes on and proceeded with our day, uttering our rehearsed lines and screaming with emotions in front of the audience.

We received the applause and acclaim we would most days since entertainment was scarce back then, and returned to the common costume rooms to get changed into our daily clothes. Richard made fun of me, always in an endearing and foolish way, when I was called by his father to his changing room.

“If you are going to abandon me again tonight, Master Earl Favourite, I swear by all the gods, I will rip your costumes just enough for the women to see your small prick,” Richard quickly said. He was joking… I hoped.

“I will be right out.” I put my hand on his shoulder, reassuringly. “And then I’ll cut your costumes to reveal your minuscular organ,” I replied while making a move to grab his pants, which he quickly dodged. I heard him laugh as I stepped into his father’s office.

“You called, Master?” I asked innocently.

He was sipping on a glass of rum and looked proud. He smiled at me, a gesture he would not do very often. Not in my presence, at least.

“Keep bringing them in, boy,” he said while he stood and came close to me. I tensed, not knowing what he was going to do, but a second later I found myself trapped in a hug by none other than James Burbage himself.

“The Earl sounded thrilled with the tour and the invitation you offered, so he made a generous donation to the theatre,” he announced with glee.

“I am happy it all turned out well, Master,” I said, trying to keep my disappointment hidden at the news that the Earl had left so quickly.

“He also left this for you.” He handed me a sealed letter, which I grabbed with surprise.

“Now go have your fun boy, you deserve it,” Master Burbage said while handing me some coin. Clearly, the Earl’s donation had been generous as it was not time to receive our pay. I left his room and broke the seal of the letter.

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