Dorothy Was Different

by O.Y. Dalziel

 

Chapter Eleven

Consolidation.

 

We both made a concerted effort to establish a good working and domestic relationship, and I concentrated on trying to be attentive; polite; considerate; industrious, and in fact not at all like my usual self! Dorothy showed off her skills of household management and organisation, and she must have been good at both, because I began enjoying my food and found myself helping her with what I had previously considered to be "Women's Work." I became aware that I was being quietly manipulated, but decided it was surprisingly pleasant.

I began the preliminary work for my new corsetry venture by examining the advertisements in several different magazines. Two "Men's" magazines contained small advertisement sections, so I roughed out several tentative examples; refining and revising them until they sounded suitable. I wanted to make it quite clear from the outset that we were offering a Mail Order Service that catered for both men and women, and I emphasised that personal callers of either sex would be sure of a welcome at the shop.

It may have been a coincidence, but the corset representative called soon after I had my first advertisement prepared and ready. His name was Gerald, and he was a tall, dark, and handsome man; gifted with a flashing smile. He was the younger son of the corset manufacturer; he had a most engaging personality, and was a good salesman. His firm had been established in Mid-Victorian times, and was well known and highly respected in the corsetry trade.

He was very interested in my new venture, and was obviously keen to secure our orders. I mentioned my proposed brochure showing our various designs, and he offered to help with some of the printing facilities. He could be of considerable assistance in a number of ways, and it was a great help to know that he would act in a supporting role.

I already had ideas for six basic garments, and was hoping to be able to assess which of these would prove to be the most popular. Once this had been decided, I could then move on to designing some further new models, perhaps with interesting innovations.

Our first brochure was a very amateurish effort, with simple pen drawings of six different corsets; and duplicated on green paper. It contained an order form, and a self-measurement diagram that Gerald provided from his company archives. This added something of a professional touch to the general layout, and helped to disguise the poor presentation and the inadequacy of my drawings.

We modified my first made to measure corset by strengthening and stiffening the frontal boning. The modification was Dorothy's suggestion, although she copied it from a strongly boned stock model that was designed for "Ladies of Stouter Build!" She washed my corset, showed Gerald how to strengthen it, and where she wanted the extra boning inserted. He took it away; modified it; and in due course returned it, and Dorothy helped me to put it on.

I had been worried about the stiffer boning, and the restrictions it might place on my movements when I was bending. Dorothy assured me that it would be "All right;" and gave me a convincing demonstration. She took one of her magazines; dropped it on the floor; bent from the hips, and picked it up without any effort; keeping her legs together and her back straight. She remarked:

"That's the best way to deal with light things.

If it should be heavy, I suggest you try like this."

"This" could only be described as a cross between a curtsy, and a genuflexion; placing one leg behind the other; bending both knees; sinking gracefully; picking up the object, and rising smoothly; keeping the back straight at all times. As usual, she was right about the bending and lifting, and I found that with the stronger corset it was now possible to load quite heavy bundles of bedding into the van with less effort than before.

The strengthening was noticeable as soon as she began to lace me in. The flexible bones had always given me an all-round, moulded comfort, but there had been a strong tendency for the corset to crease and fold up at the waist, when I bent forward. The stiff bones at the back had been adequate, and had helped me to straighten up; whereupon the creasing had disappeared, and I had accepted the condition.

The stiffer frontal boning was an immediate and considerable improvement; giving me better support, and "Lift;" and preventing the corset creasing at the waist when I bent over. The combination of the stiffened back and front meant that my waist was mainly reduced at the sides, and this made me look noticeably smaller, when viewed from the front. I was pleased with the whole effect; especially when Dorothy put her hands on my waist - and I put mine on hers!

We decided to improve my basic designs by giving each one a name. I had told Dorothy that my first one had been named the "Elfrida," and she confirmed that several manufacturers had given female or classical names to their garments. As far as I could see, the only difficulty would be avoiding the possibility of duplicating any of the existing names. I borrowed a book from the library; selected a number of likely names, and carefully checked them against each of Dorothy's trade catalogues and manufacturer's lists. I eventually found enough names; using the ones that suggested strength, comfort, or both; and thinking that any customer who knew about the meaning of names would understand what I was striving to achieve.

We put my original made to measure design on the front of the brochure, and named it "Callista," because, according to the book, that name meant "Most Beautiful!" Then came three more back lacing models. The first was a very short one, designed to draw the waist in sharply "For those customers who may desire a rapid, but short-term waist reduction," which we named "Drusilla." (Strong)

The next model was much longer and higher; and virtually the same as the first tight lacing corset I had bought over the counter. We offered it in a choice of materials and colours, ("Samples sent upon request. Please state your second choice.") to give it our personal stamp of individuality, and we named it "Constantia." (Firm)

We described our last back lacing model as being "Ideal for both Ladies and Gentlemen." It was deep over the hips; strongly boned; with no elastic side panels, and rising to about two inches above the waist. I claimed that it was "Popular with many of our customers;" and hoped that I would be proved right! We named it "Harmonia." (Harmony.)

The remaining two garments were popular stock models. A high waisted elastic girdle, with hookside fastening, and lightly boned, "Delicia," (Charming); plus a well boned, and front lacing corset, "Celia," (Heavenly). Both of these were offered "Made to your individual measurements," in a choice of materials, and we gave our "Personal Guarantee of Satisfaction" with every one.

The final draft brochure was sent off to Gerald for printing, and in due course he sent me a proof copy. I was pleased with the finished article, and Dorothy was most impressed. This encouraged me to send off my first two advertisements for inclusion in the magazines, and meant that we really had committed ourselves, come what may! When all this had been finalised I succumbed to a violent attack of the "Worries." Dorothy did her best to comfort me, in a number of ways, but I think she was as nervous as I was.

It was while we were in this preliminary phase that Gerald introduced us to a device that he called a "Measuring Frame." I have no idea why it was known as a frame, because it resembled a full length corset. Much higher above the waist than usual, and deeper over the hips; but still basically a corset. The material was a dull white; heavy and durable cloth, and there was a strong front clasp, and full length lacing at the back. Several additional, shorter, laced sections had been included; some over the hips, and others at the waist. Two metal buckles at the front could be incorporated into a quick release fan-lacing system if the customer required it.

The Frame soon became a useful aid to fitting. It was first fastened around the customer, and the various laced sections were carefully tightened and adjusted until we had achieved the desired shape and fit. It was indelibly marked with lines, corresponding to those on the measurement form. A tape measure would be placed on the various lines, and the measurements were then recorded on the form. Dorothy's father had used one for most of his fittings; it had been a great help to him, and it was now made in large, medium, and small sizes, so we agreed to order a full set of three. When all the frames arrived we were fully equipped, and ready to go.

 

**

Corset Diary

 

When the adults were first lacing me, I noticed that they had each stripped down to their shoes and stockings, and were fully revealing their tightly laced corsets. This was their way of encouraging me, and letting me see what type of corset each of them wore. I was accustomed to seeing the corsets worn by Mum and Gran, because I had often been ordered to tighten their laces.

Lucy and Joan both wore identical corsets, with belts, straps and buckles, even to having the same number of suspenders. Their corsets were very high, with hard, straight busks, and underbusks. They were the Edwardian type, with a slight "S" shape at the back. They both wore a harness over the corset, to keep them permanently stiff and straight. The corset came very low between their thighs at the front, to balloon out over the hips, and curve deeply at the seat. They were very high at the front, and pushed up the breasts; tight under the armpits, and coming almost to the nape of the neck at the back. There were no shoulder straps, but the boning was stiff and hard, and to feel their corsets was akin to running your hands over a ridged steel cylinder! I noticed that they both enjoyed tightening each others corsets, and in many ways they were closer than Mother and Daughter.

 

*****

We began to have serious talks, at night; both of us anxious to clear up any lingering doubts, and avoid future misunderstandings. I raised a subject which had been worrying me for some time:-

"You said you might tell me why you had been made to wear corsets, and I would certainly like to hear all about it. Is this a suitable day?"

She thought about my question for a few minutes, before giving me an answer:

"It's as good a day as any, I suppose. But it's a long story, and will take some time to tell. It goes back in the family, really. No doubt you will have heard about the 'Hand Span Waist?'"

I nodded, eagerly; and she went on:

"It was a common practice for Victorian ladies to go to the altar, on their wedding day, with their waist measurement in inches the same as their age in years. They would often be married when they were eighteen, so the Eighteen Inch Waist became the popular target. It was generally accepted that the average man could put his two hands round a lady's eighteen inch waist, and that his fingers and thumbs would touch at either side. That's how the 'Hand Span Waist' began. Do you follow me so far?"

"Yes." I replied. "I have read something on those lines, but you explain it very well. Please go on."

"Granny had an eighteen inch waist, and she was rather proud of it. When she was about twelve or thirteen she was tightly laced into a strongly boned corset, and was forced to keep it on, day and night. Her corset was laced fully closed, and the two halves were then sewn together at the back with strong thread, to make it impossible for her to loosen it or take it off."

I was becoming excited, and urged her to go on.

"Her bones were not properly formed when she was twelve, and as she grew up her body became moulded into the shape of the corset. It was a regular practice in the Victorian times, and was really very cruel, because not all the girls were able to stand the constant tight lacing, and it caused many of them to ruin their health. Their internal organs became crushed, and damaged or displaced, and they suffered from bad breath, and red noses. Illnesses like constipation and piles were commonplace, and they were regularly dosing themselves with 'Black Draughts,' and fainting from attacks of the 'Vapours.' They had to carry bottles of smelling salts, to help them recover."

She stopped at this most interesting point in the story, complaining that her throat was dry from the unaccustomed talking. I could not let it stop there, so I made a cup of tea, and, after a rest, she went on:

"There were quite a number of letters and articles in magazines and medical journals, about the dangers of tight lacing, and the injuries that people had suffered as a result of abusing their bodies. It had little or no effect, because the hand span waist had become fashionable, and fashion ruled, as it always does."

I broke in at that point, to say:

"Yes. I've read a great deal about the subject, and I think I am quite well informed, but it's nice to have your confirmation. You've seen my scrapbook? It's mainly pictures, but I want to add to it by researching some of the medical reports one day. I think it would be a good idea to print a notice, and send it out with the garments; warning our customers of the possible dangers from lacing too tightly. I don't want any claims to be made against us if people behave foolishly, so it could be a useful form of insurance as well as a warning. I know what it's like if you overdo the tightening, and it's not pleasant; believe me!"

"Tell me." she said, simply.

"No." I protested. "You first.

Finish your story; it's most interesting, and I want to hear more."

After marshalling her thoughts, she went on:

"You know, it must have been awful in those days, with rules of etiquette being so strict. People kept thinking of new ways to behave, and everybody tried to follow the constant changes in fashion. Did you know that if ladies were going out to balls or parties, they would first of all eat a big meal, and then be laced tightly into their corsets. This was simply because real ladies were only supposed to toy with their food on social occasions. They would sometimes damp their clothes with water, to make them fit more closely at the waist. Just imagine, spending all night in wet things. It's a wonder they didn't catch pneumonia!"

I referred back to the main point, and said:

"Tell me some more about your Granny's waist."

She continued:

"Tight lacing was at its height, when Granny had her eighteen inch waist. Mummy had a collection of those magazines that you mentioned, and tight lacing really was a popular subject at that time. I read as many of the letters as I could, but to my mind a lot of them didn't ring true. When you are an expert, you can often tell whether a story is true or false, and I couldn't believe some of the claims they made. Nobody could lace themselves in like that - it's just not possible!"

I had to agree with her, and said:

"I know what you mean. I have read one or two of those stories; the sort that say 'I put the corset on, and immediately pulled myself in, ten inches or more.' Now, in my opinion, that's just not possible."

Dorothy made a small "mm" of acknowledgement before taking up her story.

"Of course, Granny didn't always have an eighteen inch waist; that was only when she was young. After she was married, she had eleven children, at the rate of one a year, or thereabouts; but only four of them lived. Mummy was the last child, and the only surviving girl. The three boys all died young. One of them was a stoker on the Titanic, and went down with the ship, and the other two were killed on the Somme, in 1916. They were in the same regiment, and died within hours of each other. It was our biggest family tragedy, and Granny died of a broken heart, soon after; when she was about sixty. I never knew her, but I have seen some pictures of her in later life. She looked very old, and was rather stout; not fat, but sort of - roly-poly."

She paused, and I asked: "What about your Mother?" but she said: "Not now, love. I've talked enough for one night, and I think it's time for bed. I'll tell you about Mummy another time. Her experience was rather interesting, and I think you might like it."

 

**

We set ourselves a comfortable daily routine, from which a regular pattern emerged. I went on my "Rounds" in the van each morning; making deliveries, and looking for new business. It could be quite interesting at times. Several customers recalled the days of "Old Walter Mason," and I heard many a story about him. Dorothy was quite right when she said that he had been something of a character. It seems that he had possessed an apparently limitless fund of funny stories, and he was acknowledged as being an expert in his trade. I would like to have met him.

I happened to be passing close by the shop, one day; and decided to call in for a quick cup of tea. Dorothy was standing behind the shop counter, and showing all the signs of having relapsed into her old worried ways. She saw that a man had come into the shop, and her worried look increased, until she recognised me, and cried:

"Oh! Thank Heavens; it's YOU! I've had a Man; and I'm all at sevens and elevens!"

This was not at all like her customary greeting, and I begged for some enlightenment. The words poured out of her:

"The 'phone rang first thing this morning, just after you'd gone. A man said he'd seen our advert, and asked if I could measure him for a corset. You know I don't like doing men, so I stalled him, by saying it was the fitter's morning off. He rang up again, a few minutes ago, and said he was only in the town for the day, and he'd like to come this afternoon; so I had to say 'Yes,' and he's coming in about half an hour."

She looked at me, appealingly.

"Will you do it for me - Please? I'd be ever so grateful."

Our advertisements had only recently started to appear in the magazines, and I had not anticipated any replies coming in so quickly. This was going to be our first male "Personal Caller," and he had caught me totally unprepared! All my old self doubt came flooding back in:

Could I do it?

Could I make a good job of it?

Would I be sufficiently credible?

Would he suspect anything?

How much should I charge him?

I made up my mind, and said:

"All right; I'll do my best. Can you find me a white coat? It should help to make me look a bit more professional. If I take him upstairs, and do his fitting in the sitting room, and use the frame, I might just get away with it. If not; then I'll try and bluff my way through. At least I have one satisfactory design to my credit, and it's obvious that I'll have to do a lot more of this if we want the business to succeed, so I may as well get used to it."

There was little time for me to prepare things, and certainly no time to panic! The man called at the shop promptly, and Dorothy showed him up to the sitting room where I was waiting in my white coat, with my tape measure at the ready. She walked out; closing the door firmly, and left me to it. I had carefully draped an assortment of laced corsets over the back of my armchair, and put some corsetry trade magazines on the table, with one of them lying open at a suitable page. The long tilting mirror helped to make the room look more business-like.

The customer appeared to be a typical business man; about my height and build, but noticeably thicker around his waist. He was wearing a bowler hat and raincoat over a dark business suit, and carried a briefcase. He darted suspicious glances everywhere as though he was afraid he was being watched. When he was quite satisfied that we were alone he began to study me closely, and I could feel his eyes travelling over my body as if he was trying to undress me. I asked him to remove his hat and raincoat, and then set about relaxing him so that I could inspect him. He was not overweight, and seemed on closer examination to be a reasonable shape, so I enquired politely:

"Now, Sir. How can I assist you?"

He replied by using words that sounded familiar:

"I'm getting a bit thick round my middle, and I would like to reduce my waist a little. Do you have any close fitting corsets I can use, to pull myself in?"

Where had I heard that before? Of Course! They were almost the same words I had used when I had first called at the shop; so I knew exactly what to say!

"I know the type you mean, Sir; but; No - we don't have a stock model, as such, because we consider that the correct fit is all-important. If you will permit me, I would like to suggest that you think about having a garment made to measure."

"You may be right." he replied. "I do want a good fit; yes, that's it; a really good fit. Can you measure me now?"

I hesitated:

"Well, as a matter of fact, I have just returned from another consultation, and was about to have some lunch. However, I understand you are only here for the one day, so I will be happy to oblige you and take your measurements. Will you please strip down to your underwear."

He started to undress, and I turned away, and busied myself by putting the measuring frame and several order forms on the table, and trying to make it look as if it was a normal procedure. He folded his outer clothes neatly; placed them on a chair, and eventually stood in his vest, pants and socks, awaiting my attention. I asked him:

"May I ask if you are accustomed to wearing a laced corset of any kind, Sir?"

"I have worn one occasionally, but only when I am at home." he replied, gruffly.

"I thought I'd better ask." I went on. "Some of our inexperienced customers tend to specify a waist size that is far too small, and then they complain when they can't put it on. As you are a relative newcomer to laced corsetry, I think it would be best if we use the measuring frame, and see how we progress. Will you raise your arms please."

I stood behind him; clasped the frame around him with what I hoped were practised hands; moved the mirror to a position where he could see himself; and then I began to adjust the laces. He braced himself against my pulling, and I could see his shape changing, and reducing at the waist. I was glad I had told him to keep his underpants on, because an obvious bulge was forming, and I knew he had an erection starting. I ignored it, and asked him:

"How's that feeling; comfortable?"

"Very nice." he replied. "But, can you make it a bit tighter."

"Of course we can, Sir; but I really think you ought not to overdo it. It can be dangerous, you know."

As I had done, he pleaded:

"Go on - just a little more; please."

So I pulled the main lace tighter, and then made various adjustments to the smaller laced sections until I was quite satisfied with the general effect. I carried the tilting mirror into the bedroom, and aligned it with the other mirrors. Then I invited him in, and left him to admire himself for a few minutes while I took a quick breather. Dorothy was waiting outside the sitting room door, and she had obviously been eavesdropping on the proceedings. She silently grinned at me, and put her thumbs up.

"How much should I charge him?" I whispered.

She thought for a moment, and then named a price.

"Not a chance!" I thought. "But, you never know."

I went back into the bedroom, and the man turned from the mirror:

"Yes; this is very nice." he said. "Can you make me one to these general dimensions; but I'd like it three inches smaller at the waist." We returned to the sitting room, I handed him a copy of our brochure, and he pointed:

"Yes, that one." He had chosen the "Constantia."

"Certainly, Sir." I said. "That is a popular model with many of our male customers; but I'm afraid that if we reduce the waist to your specified size it will mean that we have to classify the garment as a "Special Order," because of the skilled cutting that will be required, and that tends to make it a little more expensive."

"How much will it cost?" he asked. So I told him, and waited for the explosion. It did not come, and instead his face cleared, and he said:

"Fine, I'll have it."

"Very good, Sir. How do you wish to pay?"

"Oh, I'll give you the money in cash. Do you want it now?"

"No, of course not, Sir." I assured him. "We only ask for a small deposit, if you wouldn't mind. The balance is due after the final satisfactory fitting. If you are happy with this fitting, I will take your full measurements."

I measured him very carefully; and found it to be surprisingly easy; passing the tape measure through the various loops, and along the indelibly marked lines; reading off the figures, double checking each one, and transferring them to the appropriate place on the measurement form. When I had completed the full sequence, I asked him:

"May I have your name, please." He turned away; his face reddening with embarrassment, and said:

"Oh - it's John Smith."

"Very well, Mr. Smith." I replied; keeping a straight face. "Would you like to ring us in about six weeks. I expect to have it ready by then."

"Is there any chance of having it sooner?" he asked, and I replied:

"I'm sorry. We have a heavy work load at present; but I will certainly ring the factory and see if I can speed things up for you. Can I contact you at all?"

"No; please don't do that." he said, hurriedly. "I'll get in touch with you."

I released him from the measuring frame, and he began to dress himself while I checked my paperwork. I took his deposit money; thanked him for his custom, gave him one of our business cards, and showed him out of the shop. It was well past closing time, so I locked the shop door, put out the lights, and then went back to the sitting room, where Dorothy was waiting. Her eyes were shining. She ran to meet me, threw herself into my arms, and enthused:

"Darling; you were wonderful! Where did you learn to act like that? It sounded so impressive and professional."

I put my hands on her waist and drew her tightly corseted body closely against mine; enjoying the many pleasurable feelings, which all helped me to relax from the tensions of the fitting. She let me repeatedly run my hands up and down her body, and made no attempt to pull away; allowing me a full measure of enjoyment. She pressed herself against me, and I could feel every contour, and every one of her corset bones. We seemed to melt together, and become a part of each other.

I answered her question:

"Well, if you think about it; all that happened was that he said to me what I said to you; and I said to him what you said to me - if you see what I mean. I must admit that it was much easier than I expected. I wonder if it will happen again?"

I can tell you, now, that it did happen again; many times; and that "Mr. Smith" was to be the first of a long "Smith" dynasty. We never asked any searching questions; always respected their confidence, and were well repaid.

 

**

Replies started to arrive by post, asking for copies of our brochure. I had asked people to enclose a stamped, addressed envelope, and several of them did. I gave priority to these potential customers, but let the others wait for a while, because I was not intending to be too generous at the start.

Our first order arrived by post. The Customer wanted a "Constantia," and had carefully filled in each of his requirements, and enclosed a cheque in full payment. I sent him a short confirming letter, and posted his order off to Gerald. Several more orders followed this one, and a busy two way traffic soon became established. Gerald sent me Mr. Smith's completed garment, and there was no doubt that he had made a very good job of it. This early response was most encouraging, and was a lot better than I had ever dared to hope for. It suggested that I was on the right lines, so I expanded my adverts to give some additional details, and had them inserted in three more magazines.

The shop counter business began to improve, with several new customers, both male and female, telling us that they had seen our publicity in one or other of the magazines. Postal enquiries continued to arrive, some containing genuine orders, and each required a reply. The holiday season was in full swing, and the town was busy with holidaymakers. We extended our range of underwear, and pasted a humorous banner advertisement across the shop window. I placed a small and discreet advertisement on several hotel notice boards, which brought in more customers; and we gained a reputation for being able to deal with holiday emergencies, such as people requiring a full change of underclothes after they had fallen into the sea, and other incidents of a similar nature.

In due course, "Mr. Smith" came back for his final fitting, and declared himself very satisfied, after I had laced him in tightly. He paid up quite cheerfully, and went away, wearing the corset. We had several other male callers during that first season and this gave me an opportunity to develop my skill at measuring, and salesmanship. Several of our weak points were exposed, and it soon became obvious that the sitting room was not always a convenient venue for my fittings, which, of course, meant that we would have to think about a better arrangement. The mail order business began to increase; keeping us busy at nights packing garments securely, for dispatch to customers "Under plain cover." I had never worked quite as hard in my life - and this was only the beginning of it all!

 

**

Of course, we had some time wasters. People who just wanted brochures, and asked for photographs, and other unpleasant things; often wanting something for nothing, and proving to be rather a nuisance. I received several enquiries from people asking if we did home consultations, and I at first sent ambiguous replies, saying in effect: "Not at the present moment, but we hope to be able to do so in the future." It was something else for me to think about.

The money continued to come in, and the Bank Manager started smiling again. One day he walked past the shop and raised his hat to Dorothy, so things were definitely starting to improve! On the other hand; the old van was showing unmistakable signs of terminal disintegration, and would soon have to be replaced. No matter how we struggled, there always seemed to be something that was wanted; so we both pulled together, and braced ourselves up, keeping our fingers tightly crossed at all times. All I can honestly say is that we worked very hard, and lived in hope. I did not want either of us to become complacent; because that's when things start to go wrong.

I disposed of the remains of the old van towards the end of the holiday season, and bought a newer and much larger one. It proved to be another good runner, and allowed me to extend the radius of my bedding and linen calls. I began to canvass two other holiday resorts, and this necessitated a high daily mileage. It was hard work, but the returns amply repaid the effort.

**

Our exertions were having a tiring effect on us, and we decided to take a short break when the holiday season was over. We discovered an old and pleasant hotel in the Lake District; standing in its own extensive wooded grounds, and overlooking a small lake. We spent most of our time sitting on a seat, on the lake shore; looking at the water, and the autumn tints of the trees. When the mood seemed right, I again broached the question of marriage, and was pleased to discover that Dorothy appeared to be more amenable.

One evening, as we were sitting by the lake, holding hands, Dorothy remarked: "I like it here; it's peaceful. Mummy and Daddy used to like the Lake District."

That reminded me:

"About your Mother; you said that you would tell me her story."

She turned to me, with a ready willingness, and said: "Yes: let's sit here a while, and I'll tell you. Mummy was born in 1885, which made her fifteen, at the turn of the century. Tight lacing was still all the rage at that time, and had, in fact, re emerged even more savagely, after easing off for a few years.

"Mummy was 'Put In' her first corsets when she was eleven, and was laced in, very tightly. Her waist was progressively reduced over the next few years, and on her seventeenth birthday, it measured seventeen inches. I know this for a fact, because she used to keep a piece of ribbon in a box. It was cut to fit her waist exactly, and it's precisely seventeen inches in length. I have kept it all this time, together with her wedding dress, and a few other things of hers.

"When she was fifteen, she started to work in a corset factory. It was a thriving industry in those days, and the hours were very long. She had become accustomed to tight lacing and was proud of her figure, because she was even smaller than the other girls. The Manager noticed her waist, and offered to train her as a fitter. Then he asked if she would be a model for the firm's publicity. Photography was improving, and the company wanted to be the first to produce a photographic catalogue of their range of corsets. It meant earning some more money, so Mummy agreed to do it."

I interrupted, at this point, to say:

"Yes; I've been thinking on the same lines myself, and it's something we shall have to consider if we want to continue expanding the business. Sorry, please will you go on."

"There's not much more to tell," she said, "and I'm feeling a bit chilly. Why don't we go back up to the Hotel and sit somewhere quiet, and I'll tell you the rest."

We went indoors; sat by the fire; had a warm drink, and she continued her tale:

"This was a period when fashion was undergoing a major change. Queen Victoria died in 1901, and the Edwardian era began. It was a time for escaping from all the old Victorian repressions, and, as so often happens, things swung to the other extreme. People wanted a to have a good time, and by all accounts they certainly had it! Tight lacing continued, although there was a move to break the habit. A lady Doctor from France had invented a completely new type of corset, with a straight front busk.

"The original design was intended to relieve the pressure on the internal organs of the body; but of course they had to overdo it. If you wear a corset with a straight front and lace yourself in tightly, it will distort your body into an exaggerated curve at the back. It was known as the Gibson bend, or Grecian bend. Have you ever seen a picture of a Gibson Girl?"

"Yes." I replied. "I have a photo of Camille Clifford, and it's one of the highlights of my collection."

"Then you know what I mean." she said. "Well; Mummy modelled for a series of photographs all through the transition from Wasp waist to S. Curve, and it changed the entire shape of her figure. The catalogues were very popular, and they soon became collector's items.

"Fashion changed again about 1910, and it was now the hips that were compressed, rather than the waist. Corsets became extremely long and tube-like, and it was very difficult to walk or sit down in them. Mummy took exception to that fashion, and wanted to keep her small waist and revert to the Victorian shape. She gave in her notice at the factory and came to our town for a holiday. She met Daddy when he was delivering bedding to her hotel; he offered her a job in the shop, and you know the rest."

"Is that your Mother's photograph, in the living room?" I asked, and she nodded.

"Well, she certainly had a lovely figure." I said,

and on that pleasant note we retired to our rooms.

 

**

Corset Diary

 

I wore a variety of tight corsets all through my teenage years, and continued when I went to college. I started work, and then went overseas. I became a constant attraction on board the ship, because I was the only single girl, with a tightly corseted and tiny waist. The ship's Officers, and male passengers only wanted to do two things to me; feel my tight and hard corsets, and......!

This made me want to lace tighter and tighter, to be more rigid, and wear six inch heels for dinner, and change into my seven inch courts for coffee.

It was a good job I was travelling on board a ship, because I was lugging a large suitcase, which weighed a ton, and was full of corsets!

 

*****

 

A Selection of Letters from Magazines

 

TO THE EDITOR

 

Sir;

I have been following your correspondence on the subject of Corsets and Tight Lacing with considerable interest, and have often found myself to be at odds with certain other writers; particularly those who place great emphasis upon the amount of suffering and torture they claim to have been made to endure.

I have been wearing some form of waist restraint ever since my earliest infancy, and I now have a small and well defined waist which I am proud to display, and which is the envy of many. I would go so far as to claim that with little or no effort my waist can often and quite easily be reduced still further, until it measures a figure which makes the waists of some of your correspondents seem thick and clumsy by comparison.

And yet, I can assure you I have never suffered anything more than an occasional slight discomfort, and this only at a time when a new and well stiffened corset is first laced on, and fully closed around my waist. This minor inconvenience is of only short duration, and is limited to that early period when a new garment still has to "settle in," so to speak. The secret lies in the slow and careful reduction - one might almost call it the sculpture - of the human body.

My earliest childhood recollection is of my gradually becoming aware of there always being "Something" tightly bound around the centre of my infant body. It did not appear to inconvenience me in any way, and it was always there, so I suppose I grew to accept it. In fact, "Growing," and "Acceptance" might be looked upon as being the keywords of my story. Perhaps you will permit me to explain.

Although my waist reduction began in infancy, it was not until my early "teens" that my mother took the time and trouble to explain the reason why my waist had been constantly restrained in this manner throughout the preceding years. She had always maintained her own waistline at its smallest possible measurement by constantly wearing the stiffest and most tightly laced of corsets, and I well remember being dandled upon her knee and hearing the creaking of her stiff busks and whalebones, whenever she moved.

It appears that my mother had always yearned for a daughter of her own. It had been her oft expressed wish to train and shape the figure of a girl child in the same way as her own figure had been trained. She wanted to be able to pass on the many delights and undoubted benefits that were to be had from the constant wearing of a well fitted and tight lacing corset.

In due course my mother married, and in the fullness of time became "with child." She was already quite convinced that the expected child would be a girl, and she immediately began to draw up a plan of means and methods whereby the shape and contour of her daughter's body could be restrained, and the restraint maintained under the strictest of control at all times, right from the very beginning. You may perhaps be able to appreciate her degree of dismay and disappointment when she was told that she had, in fact, given birth to a healthy male child.

In spite of this apparent setback, she decided to continue with her original plans. No sooner had my infant body been cleansed after the birth - and even before I was clothed and placed in my cradle - than a flannel binder was tightly wound around my midriff area and secured. This was not unusual at the time, because some form of binder was considered to be an essential item in the layette of any new born infant.

The difference, in my case, was that my binder was only removed on the rarest of occasions, and for the shortest possible time, to allow for the basic essentials of bathing and hygiene. The binder was always replaced and secured at the earliest moment, and strict efforts were taken to ensure that my body was not allowed to expand by the slightest fraction of an inch; a tape measure being used on every occasion. I have been reliably informed that my mother would always double check by spanning my waist with her two small hands. She was easily able to do this at the time.

And so I grew from infancy, and into childhood. My chest and hips remained virtually unrestrained, and were allowed to expand and develop in a normal way, with only my waist being firmly maintained at its constant small measurement.

When it was time for me to begin my schooling, I was taken to a local corsetiere, and my body was carefully measured. In due course I returned to the establishment for my "first fitting." I was made to lay on a couch, and my small waist binder was removed for the last time. Before my body had time to expand in any way, I was quickly powdered with talc, and fastened into my first shaped bodice.

This was made of some stiff material, which had been further stiffened by the addition of several vertically placed thin cane strips, set at intervals around the whole of the garment. The bodice fastened with a lace at the back, and this was quickly drawn up so that the bodice was closed completely and tightly all around me. The lace was then firmly knotted. It restrained me from about the middle of my chest, was then shaped tightly into the waist, and reached down to as far as the top of my hip bones.

The tight and stiff bodice immediately placed some new and exciting restrictions upon me, and I had to be helped from the couch, in order to stand upright. I was made to walk up and down the room for some time, dressed only in the bodice. I then had to sit down and rise unaided from several chairs of different heights. All my movements were carefully observed and noted by my mother and the corsetiere. Several marks were made upon the bodice with tailor's chalk, and these apparently indicated the places where slight modifications to the size and shape were considered to be necessary.

I continued to wear this bodice after leaving the corsetiere's establishment, and eventually returned a few days later. My first bodice was removed, and quickly replaced by another and apparently similar garment, although I was quick to notice that the general fit of this new garment was an immediate improvement upon the first one. The first bodice was then taken away for it to be modified in accordance with my new dimensions, and we again returned home.

Although I had accepted this new and tightly fitting bodice without protest, I was nevertheless curious as to why I should be the only boy in my school who had to wear a garment of this nature, but, in spite of my questions, it was still to be several years before a satisfactory explanation was given to me. My mother simply informed me that, from now on, I would have to wear this bodice, laced fully closed, both by day and by night. If I was ever to attempt to either loosen it or remove it, then I could expect to be severely punished. I said nothing at the time, but can well recall thinking that I had no desire to loosen the laces or to remove the bodice. It was already becoming a most welcome part of me, in the same way that my previous binder had been.

Even at that tender age, I was becoming proud of my shapely figure, and thoroughly enjoyed the firm and comfortable support of the bodice. Some of the bigger and more unpleasant children at school soon noticed my newly shaped and restrained body, and were quick to ridicule me. I treated all their taunts with a complete indifference, until they eventually left me alone and went in search of easier prey.

My education continued upon conventional lines. I was now accustomed to the restraints imposed by my tight and progressively stiffened bodice, and quickly discovered alternative methods of movement. I could join in the most strenuous of schoolboy games and mischief with little or no signs of distress or breathlessness. Running; jumping, climbing trees, and similar boyhood pursuits could all be enjoyed to the full.

And so I entered my teenage years. My upper and lower body continued to develop in a normal manner, and I did my best to encourage this development by the use of Indian clubs, and callisthenic exercises. Deep breathing helped to expand my chest, and long walks in the country all served to aid the natural development of my hips and legs.

My severe waist restraint was maintained at all times, and my hands grew naturally until the time came when I could, and regularly did span my own waist. I can still remember the secret thrill, late one night, in my own bedroom, when I felt my fingers and thumbs meeting around my waist for the very first time. I made a silent vow that I would do all in my power to keep my waist at this size until my dying day.

I was nearing the end of my teenage years, and it was at about this time that I finally discarded my old and well loved bodice, and was fitted with my first "Real" corset. This garment was much more rigidly boned than the bodice, having firm but flexible metal strips, in place of the previous cane strips. As a consequence, I found the corset to be generally stiffer than any of my previous garments. It was also much more severely tailored to the waist, and gave me a truly "Hour-glass" shaped figure. And finally, it was longer both above and below the waist, and had been carefully shaped to accommodate my still developing chest and hips.

It fastened at the front, and the front was additionally stiffened with a strong metal busk, to prevent any tendency to stoop. The laces ran the full length of the back, and were quickly and easily closed and knotted, without the need for any severe tight lacing in the accepted sense. My mother and I both made our customary check, and were delighted when we each spanned my waist with ease. My waist at this time measured precisely fourteen inches over the closed corset. My chest and hip measurements being thirty six inches in each case.

I left school, and found employment in the office of a Solicitor. A clerical and largely sedentary occupation, but one where I could conveniently dress in such a way as to allow me to avoid drawing any unwelcome attention to my shaped and stiffened body. I tried my hand at various sports at the weekends, and eventually took up the game of golf. This gave me the necessary degree of essential upper and lower bodily exercise, with the added benefits of an enjoyable social life.

I hope I have not taken up too much of your time and space with the story of my early years, but I wanted to try and set the record straight, once and for all. Yes; by all means lace yourself tightly, if that is your personal desire. Go up to, and beyond, your personal limits of endurance if you want to. There is no other feeling of such intense pleasure that can compare with it. But; take my word for it; given time and patience, there is absolutely no need for you to suffer in any way - and I am the living and healthy proof of that statement.

 

Yours; "ANIME."

 

**

Sir, I fear that detailed instructions for figure training by corsets would fill a fair sized volume. Let me try and give ten "Golden Rules" for tight lacing, in the hope that they may be of some help.

1. Have your corsets made to your measurements by a good maker; preferably one who has been in business long enough to understand your requirements. Your first corset should be made four to six inches smaller in the waist than your normal corset size. It should be as high as possible at the back, but not so high in front as to make your bust too noticeable. The length below the waist does not matter, so long as you are always comfortable both standing up, and sitting down.

2. The front busk should have a broad strip of steel behind it, which strengthens it, and prevents nipping. This strip should be removable. The bones at the back, and on either side of the lace holes should be very strong, as this prevents the eyelets from being pulled out. Allow room for your bust and hips to expand, as you lace in your waist. As for shape, a smoothly tapered waist is much harder to achieve than a short and sharply curved in one, but a long and tapered waist is much more beautiful.

3. Let yourself become thoroughly accustomed to the general feel of these new corsets, before you progressively begin to tighten them.

4. Keep your waist carefully measured each day, and enter the size of your hips, waist and bust in your diary, so that you can follow your progress. Try and draw yourself in by half an inch each week. Do not try to hasten or exceed this, or your health may suffer, and you will feel uncomfortable.

5. Sleep in your corsets. Wear them loosely, until you become used to their nightly restraint, and then gradually tighten them, but with the steel front busk removed.

6. Wear a close fitting vest under your corset, and ensure that there are no creases or rucks in any undergarment, because these can become very painful during the course of the day.

7. When first putting on your corsets, put your hand inside them, before lacing up, and smooth all your flesh upwards, above the waist line. This will help your inside to re-adjust itself, without becoming crushed.

8. If you have no-one to help you, when you lace up, it is a good idea to screw a strong hook in the door post, at about the height of your waist. You can hook the waist loops of lace over it, and then use your hands to help the laces to run through the eyelets, above and below the waist. First tighten the section below the waist, and work upwards. Then tighten above the waist, and work downwards. Use both hands to press on either side of the waist, before finally tightening the laces at the waist. Do not permit any slippage of the lace, when tying a secure knot in the laces.

9. Do not lace yourself if you are not feeling fit. Have a rest, if necessary for a few days. It will prevent you from harming yourself, although it may slow down your rate of reduction. Take exercise, and regular walks. Do not eat hurriedly. Remember that the whole of your inside is having to adjust itself to new conditions, and it will do it very well, if you give it a chance, and do not go to extremes.

10. The last rule is by far the most important, and it is: "Watch your health, and keep fit."

 

Yours truly "MODERATION."

 

**

Sir, The following hints may be of value to those of your readers who might be contemplating the wearing of a tightly laced corset.

Never buy corsets "off the shelf." Study your figure carefully, and insist on your corsetiere doing likewise. You will find that a little attention to detail will mean a great difference to your personal comfort, and your appearance.

Keep the hip bones clear of steels. You can have an efficiently steeled corset, without also having a chafed hip bone. See that the eyelet holes at your corset waist are quite close together. This gives a sense of firmness and support, which is lacking in the ordinary corset. The eyelet spacing above and below the waist can be as usual.

Your corset should not be ill used. Nothing shorten its life so much as to have it gaping widely open at the back. It will not be firm, and will soon become pulled out of shape. A new corset can be expected to "give," usually about an inch or so, before settling down. This should be allowed for, when the preliminary measurements are being taken. The corset should always be worn with the back laced fully closed, regardless of whether or not you are indulging in extreme tight lacing.

The laces should be loose, when the corset is first put on, and it should not be necessary to strain to clasp the corset busk. All your adjustments can be made with the aid of the laces. Loosen the laces before removing the corset, and wear a different corset on alternate days. This will avoid your corsets becoming unduly strained. It is a mistake to store your corset in a tightly rolled condition. It is better to hang it over the back of a chair, so that it can revert to its original shape,

A night corset can be worn, as a help to the day corset. You should soon become accustomed to a night corset, which should not interfere with your sleep. Have your vest or chemise tailored to your figure, and you will soon find that you have comfort, as well as a neat waist.

 

Yours, "MEMSAHIB."

 

*****

 

Chapter Twelve

 

The Awful Truth

 

We went back to the shop after the holiday break, and set about clearing up the outstanding business, feeling much better for the rest. We found that this was to be our seasonal slack period, and it gave us an opportunity to do some stocktaking and reorganisation; including roughing out some plans for converting a part of the sitting room upstairs for future use as a fitting room. A full description of the modification is given elsewhere, but, in short, we eventually divided the room by means of a folding partition and in that way had the best of both worlds.

I had been giving a great deal of thought to the possibilities of having our own photo brochure, and had reasoned that it should be a very good way of publicising our full series of garments. I also wanted to increase the range of models, and had several new designs in mind. I had a long talk with Gerald when he came on one of his visits; telling him about my various proposals and seeking his opinion. Generally speaking, he was in favour. He was also anxious to show us the extent of his own operation and its capabilities, and he invited us to visit his factory.

I was very keen to go, and Dorothy agreed that she would like to see the sort of place in which her Mother had worked. We travelled by train; Gerald met us at the station and took us to a first class hotel, where we were shown to adjoining bedrooms and made very welcome. I was extremely surprised to see such a modern factory; having visualised "Sweat Shop" conditions, or a "Satanic Mill," such as my Mother had once described.

The workrooms were clean; spacious, and well lighted, with ladies sitting at widely spaced benches and tables. Some were measuring and cutting out the material, and others worked swiftly with electric sewing machines. I noticed that a few ladies were engaged with needle and thread on finely detailed work. Large wickerwork baskets of partly finished corsets were constantly being wheeled between the different departments, and into a separate pressing and ironing section. The newly pressed garments were then passed on for a final inspection, before being folded inside layers of tissue paper, and packed into the familiar long pink cardboard boxes, and made ready for despatch.

Two men operated a small machine shop; cutting and modifying the boning and steels in between sharpening the cutting knives, overhauling the sewing machines and keeping everything in running order. The whole procedure was very well organised. After we had looked around the various rooms, we had a pleasant lunch in the canteen and it was obvious from the chattering of the girls that they were happy at their work.

Part of the afternoon was spent in a visit to Gerald's small museum, which showed examples of the full range of garments the firm had made over the last century. I was absolutely delighted with this absorbing piece of history, and it was really most entertaining to see how the corset had been developed since the company started. I was pleased to discover that my research had equipped me to discuss various technical aspects with the museum Curator, and she in turn appeared to be glad to have such a receptive and intelligent audience.

We spent the evening with Gerald and his family, before returning to the Hotel. The next day was taken up with long business discussions with Directors and Executives, and the question of our photo brochure was raised. We talked about the best methods of presentation, and arranged for an example of each model to be made up at the factory.

I had assumed that my designs would have to be photographed on dress forms or lay figures; but the photographer from the publicity company was present, and he was most insistent that it would be better for the corsets to be displayed on live models. The factory would have used a local specialist modelling agency, but apparently the agency could not provide a model who was prepared to be tightly laced into one of my designs, and this appeared to leave us with something of a problem.

The photographer tried to bring Dorothy into the conversation, but I was surprised to notice that she had suddenly become very detached and withdrawn. We finally decided that we would have to make further enquiries, and give the matter some more thought before taking any positive action. We concluded our discussions, thanked them for their hospitality, took our leave, and were driven back to the station in time for our train.

The visit had been interesting and informative; giving me cause for much thought, and generating several fresh ideas which might be put to good use in my future expansion plans. Several requests for fittings were awaiting us, when we returned to the shop. I dealt with the men, while Dorothy attended to the ladies, and we were able to integrate very well without interfering with each others activities or causing embarrassment by mixing up the customers.

Dorothy managed to do most of her work in the shop; finding the ladies cubicle to be satisfactory for the fitting of stock models. She only used the sitting room when a lady wanted a made to measure, or other special type of garment. In my case it was better to take male customers upstairs at once; keeping them in the shop for a minimal period and avoiding any problems.

Dorothy made no reference to the factory visit and would not talk about it, which was most unusual. We could normally discuss any subject at length, and would often talk far into the night about anything of mutual interest. I decided to try and draw her out a little, in order to discover what was wrong.

 

**

One evening, after we had closed the shop, and were sitting in front of the fire, I raised the matter:

"You haven't said much about our visit to Gerald's factory, love. What did you think of it?"

She was silent for a few minutes; and then, looking down at the floor; said, tonelessly:

"It was all right, I suppose."

"Just 'All right,'" I protested. "Is that all? I quite enjoyed it, myself."

"Yes, you did - didn't you," was her next remark.

She seemed to brace herself; and I knew that we were coming to the heart of the matter.

She stood up, and the words came out with a rush:

"They want me to be a model for the new styles, and be photographed! Don't they? - Don't they?" she cried.

"No, dear." I protested. "Nobody said that, now; did they?"

"No." she admitted. "But I could tell; by the way that photographer spoke to me.

He wanted me to offer myself as a model; and I don't want to! That's all."

I was going to put my arm around her; but she moved away from me; saying, very quietly:

"Laurence, dear. Please don't make me do it."

"No, no; of course not." I said, soothingly.

"What's wrong? Can't you tell me."

She was still standing, and remained very tense and rigid, with her arms wrapped tightly around her body, as if she wanted to clamp hard down on her feelings. It was most unpleasant, seeing her like this, and much worse than watching somebody suffering the agonies of deep grief. It struck at my heart to see her torturing herself, and I knew that I must, somehow, help her to relieve herself of this burden. It would be impossible for us to develop our relationship any further until the problem had been resolved, so I applied sweet reasoning:

"Dearest; please let me help you to overcome this problem. There must be something I can do. I can't bear to see you tormenting yourself like this, and I'm sorry I asked the question. It's only that I want to expand the business still further, now that things are starting to go so well."

I suggested discussion:

"Can't we talk about it; you know, like we usually do. I know how much it helps me to talk my problems over with you, and get things straight in my mind. Please, my dear; let me try and do the same for you."

She was standing in the middle of the room; directly under the central electric light, and I sat watching her. Her fair hair seemed to reflect the light, and it was almost as if she had a saintly halo. Her small round face was tense, and she had wrinkles of worry etched on her forehead. My own defences would always take the form of a hard, impenetrable shell; but Dorothy was obviously hiding behind a protective barrier; visible only to her.

I made another attempt to reach her:

"There's something much more serious; isn't there? It's not just the thought of undressing, and being photographed. I know there is something festering deep inside you; something you think is altogether too dreadful to talk about. But my dear; can't you understand? If you want any relief at all; you must talk about it. Please, let me help you. I promise to listen to everything you say, and I will try not to interrupt until it's all over. Come and sit by me, and perhaps we can find out what is causing you so much worry."

At last, she came and sat down; moving close to me, and after a while allowing me to hold her hand. I waited until she showed some signs of relaxation, and then she began to talk. It took her some time to tell me the whole of the terrible story, and I had to help her through some of the worst parts. It was very important for us to bring it all out into the open, and it was well worth the effort. There were several false starts, and then:

"I once told you I thought I was a mistake, and that Mummy and Daddy did not want any children."

I nodded, and she continued:

"At first, after I was born, Mummy tried to divide her time between me and the shop; and then she had to hire a lady, by the day, to look after me. It was easier when I started school, and could do things for myself. Mummy was always so busy in the shop, and Daddy seemed to be rushing around all the time. Mummy still kept her tiny waist; although I believe she had to work hard to get it back again after I was born. Then, as I grew older, she decided that it was time for me to wear a corset.

"I had heard Mummy and Daddy talking about it once or twice. Mummy insisted that my figure training must be started before long, and Daddy argued that there was still plenty of time. I can remember him saying: 'Leave the poor girl a while longer. It will be easier when she is a bit older.'

"I didn't really mind either way. I had grown up in a home where corsetry was commonplace; I had seen ladies being fitted, and other young girls who wore corsets; so it all seemed perfectly normal. I knew that I would have to wear my own corset, and I accepted the fact without question.

"Mummy first started when I was eleven years old by putting her tape measure around my waist, the day after my birthday, and remarking: 'Oh, dear. I can see we are going to have quite a problem with you.' I was a chubby child with a lot of puppy fat, and I felt sure she would start with something light, and let me become used to it. I was sent to my bedroom, and told to undress, and Mummy went down to the shop, for my first corset. I wondered what it would be like, and hoped that it would be pretty, when it was on.

"To my surprise and horror, she brought one of the heavy, boned and back lacing type, and told me to put it on. I refused; saying 'But, Mummy; I can't wear that!'

"'Yes you will wear it, my girl.' she insisted. She was always a very determined woman; and would never tolerate disobedience.

"I shouted; screamed, and stamped my foot; until she smacked me; hard; ordering 'Behave yourself! Put it on - right away. Such nonsense indeed!' I shouted 'No - No. I won't do it!' So she seized my arm, and dragged me over to the bed; took the cord out of my dressing gown; and then - and then, she tied both my hands, firmly, to the bed.

"When I was secured, and could not move; she picked up the corset; clasped it around me, and started to lace me in - viciously. She kept on talking, all the time: 'Now - Tug - Young lady - Tug - You will - Tug - Do as I say - Tug!' It was awful! She was crushing my insides; and went on and on; disregarding my screaming and pleading. It felt as if she was trying to cut me in half! When I felt ready to die, she tied the laces in a final knot. She was breathing heavily; and said: 'Now; you will keep it on like that, and let us have no more of your silly tantrums. The pain will soon pass, and then you will feel better.' Then she locked me in my room.

"I had never known pain like it - ever. She said it would go away; but it didn't! It was dreadful! I screamed, and hammered on the door with my fists; but she took no notice, and I had to keep it on all day. I waited until I heard her going to bed, and then tried to unfasten the knot. She had tied it into several knots which were all muddled up, to make me keep it on. I had nothing sharp enough to cut the laces; it took me hours to untie all the knots, and all the time I was in such excruciating agony. Oh; it was cruel - cruel."

I put my arm closer around her; attempting to soothe her trembling, and said, sympathetically:

"Oh my poor dear; it must have been awful for you."

"It was." she agreed. "After a long struggle, I managed to untie the knots; loosen the laces and take the awful thing off. I cried myself to sleep, and in the morning Mummy came in and saw what I had done. She was terribly annoyed with me; tied me to the bed and laced me in again; even more savagely than before! When she had finished, she brought in a leather strap; and I thought she was going to beat me. But, instead; she fastened the strap around my waist; put a lock on it; locked it with a key, and took the key away. After that she kept coming back, to make sure that I still had it on.

"I was forced to wear it night and day; until I became dreadfully ill; so ill that they had to send for the Doctor. When he saw what I was wearing he had a row with Mummy, and made her cut the laces and take it off me. I was ill for a long time, and I thought that would be the end of it. But; when I was better, she started again; only this time, she was more reasonable. At first she laced me in until it was a firm fit and not too tight. Then, at intervals over the next two years or so; she would bring a smaller waist size from the shop; lace me into it and let me become used to it.

"It was much better that way, and I had no pain. She supervised my daily lacing; doing it herself, at first; and then training me, so that I could do it for myself. After a few months I began to like the support it gave me, and to look forward to the next smaller size. It soon became second nature for me to tighten the laces at every opportunity.

"Of course, it wasn't all nice! The boys would try and put their arms around me at school; and make nasty remarks, when they felt my boned corset. I noticed that one or two boys seemed to like it very much; and they wouldn't leave me alone, which made some of the other girls jealous. Then all the girls started calling me 'Boney,' and I didn't like that."

She paused; wiped a tear from her eye; and was able to go on a little more easily once she had relieved herself of the main burden of confidence:

"I started working in the shop when I left school. I learnt how to serve at the counter; then Mummy trained me how to do fittings; and I became able to look after the shop by myself. I had to carry on alone after Daddy had his heart attack, because Mummy was so busy nursing him. When he died, we couldn't manage the heavy bedding deliveries, so we cut down on that side, and concentrated on corsetry alone. The business just about supported the two of us, and we carried on like that until Mummy died. She passed away in her sleep during the night; and I found her dead in bed holding that picture; and looking very peaceful." She pointed to the photo on the mantelpiece.

I had eased her worries a little, by making her talk about it; but I still felt that there was more to come; something deep down; suppressed and hidden in the dark recesses of her mind; which would give her no peace until it had been fully exposed. I went over the various points she had made, and said, gently:

"I know you said you thought you were a mistake; but I think you and your Mother became quite close, in the end; didn't you?"

She turned to me, eagerly; and said:

"Well, yes; we did. After that awful business, when I was first made to wear a corset; she appeared to change, and become more mellow. She told me many of the things that a girl ought to know - about the 'Facts of Life' and that. She helped me to train my figure, and we really did become very close to each other.

"But; she was always really insistent about one thing; and made me make a solemn promise not to give my body to any man before my Wedding Day. And - Oh my dear - it's been so very hard for me!"

She hurried on; as if anxious to get it over:

"You see; I keep having these dreadful sexual desires! Sometimes it's as if I must have a man inside my body - any man! It's loathsome! I shouldn't feel like this - no girl should feel like this - it's unbearable! I know there is something terribly wrong with me! I went to the Library once; and looked through some medical books."

And then she took both my hands in hers; looked me full in the face; and said:

 

"Laurence; Dear. I think I'm a Nymphomaniac!"

 

**

Dorothy looked at me appealingly; her eyes were flicking from side to side; probing into each of my eyes in turn, as if she was desperately searching the innermost depths of my soul; so great was her need for reassurance. I had to be very careful; and can freely confess that my first impulse had been to roar with laughter! With a great effort I choked it back, because one of my famous flippant remarks at that particular moment would have ruined everything for the pair of us. I applied the well known North Country principle of: "When in doubt - Say Nowt!" remaining silent; holding her hands, and trying to look reassuring. She tossed the whole burden to me:

"What do you think - is that what I am?"

"I must be honest." I replied. "I can't pretend to be an expert about this; although I did hear rather a lot about it, in the Army. At that time, it seemed to be every man's desire to meet up with a 'Raving Nympho,' and have sex twenty four hours a day! As far as I could understand, that's what nymphomaniacs appeared to want; just sex - all the time. I once looked the word up in the dictionary, and it was described as a woman with 'Repressed or frustrated sexual desires.'"

"Yes; yes, I know all that." she broke in, urgently. "But - Maniac; that means...." Now her voice was rising and beginning to break, and I could feel her trembling again.

"That means - I'm going mad; doesn't it?"

I smiled at her, then; because I realised that we had finally arrived at the heart of the matter, and I knew I could help her to overcome the simple misunderstanding that had caused her so much anguish and misery. I spoke soothingly and earnestly:

"No - love; no. It doesn't mean that; not in the sense that you mean. You're not going mad - believe me. Let's try and talk about it a bit more. Suppose you tell me about these awful feelings, and when they affect you."

She thought about it for a while:

"Well, it's usually about once or twice a month. Round about the fourteenth day after my - well, my period - you know what I mean?" She hurried on: "It's not every month, exactly; but it's always about the same time when it does come over me. That's why I insisted on having separate rooms, and keeping myself from you.

"It's been really hard, sometimes; knowing you were so close, and wanting you so dreadfully. I can think of at least one night when it nearly became too much for me, and I almost came into your room to be a part of you."

And then - desperately:

"But I promised Mummy! And; oh, Laurence; I must keep my promise; I always keep my promise - don't you see?"

I waited for a while; giving her time to calm down, and at last ventured:

"As I said, I'm not an expert; but if you want my opinion, for what it's worth; I think that if your desires only come about once or twice a month, then there can't be much wrong with you."

I made a suggestion: "Would it be any help if you were to go and see the Doctor?"

I saw her starting to make the motions of rejection, but pursued:

"Or, if that worries you too much; why not go and see if there is a lady Doctor anywhere. I'm sure she could help you."

Her face cleared:

"What a good idea! I could talk to a lady about it. Now why ever didn't I think of it before. But, there; I've been so very worried, in case my being tight laced had caused something dreadfully incurable inside me; you know, like it used to be in Victorian times." She gave me a quick kiss on the cheek, and said:

"Thank you love; you've been a great help. I'll make an appointment as soon as possible, and see if I can get some professional advice."

She made her appointment; the Doctor took a lot of time and trouble over her problem, and about a month or so later, she told me that everything was "All right now," but refused to expand on that short statement! That answer may have been all right for her, but it did not help me at all! She knew nothing about my repressed desire for her, and this was not the proper time to bring it up, but it was obvious that something would have to be done, before long!

 

**

We continued with our nightly talks; exchanging confidences, and beginning to learn a lot about each other. One night, Dorothy said:

"Well, dear; I've told you how it was for me; you have told me something about your desires; and I've told you I don't mind at all. Even so; I'm not sure I understand why you want to do it so much, and why it gives you so much pleasure. Can you give me a few more details."

I ran through my story again; taking her through the long history of my various activities. I was only covering the same ground, and repeating many of the things she already knew. I concluded by saying:

"......And that was when I met you - and you know the rest of the story." She was still not satisfied, and said:

"It's a good story, but you still haven't explained why tightly laced corsets interest you so much, and why you like us both to wear them."

I told her: "Naturally I have devoted a lot of time to self-analysis. I think I can best describe it as a considerable heightening of all the senses. Yes, that explains it very well. I have always been attracted by a small waist, and just to look at a corset in a shop window gives me pleasure. The thing that really arouses me most of all, is the sight of a tightly laced corset around a very small waist. Unfortunately; until now, I've only been able to see that at the cinema; and of course, on myself."

I paused for a moment, and looked at her hopefully; but she ignored my approach, and I had to continue.

"Then there is the 'Feel.' Do you know what I mean? Ever since that first occasion, when I put my hands on Matron and felt the strong bones, it has always given me a thrill; deep down inside. I've never known another feeling quite like it. It was lovely when I first wore my old corset. At every opportunity I would be running my hands over it; so tight; firm, and rigid! I loved to feel the ridges of the boning. Can you recall that first night here, when you were so good to me and helped me with my fitting. Don't you remember how I kept running my hands over it? It was heavenly! I think that's it, most of all. If I can't see it, then I like to be able to touch and feel it.

"Then there is another feeling; and I'm sure you must know this one yourself. The heavenly compact and supportive feeling when you have it on; the comfortable support, and the way that it moulds your body. When I first came into the shop and saw you; a vision of loveliness with the smallest waist I had ever seen; I had to be careful and keep my feelings under control, because I wanted to put my hands upon you even then."

After making my full confession and hoping I might have talked her into the right frame of mind, I looked at her, earnestly, and begged:

"Dorothy, love. Please don't be offended; I want you so very much. Can I just - Is it - is it all right for me to put my hands upon your lovely little waist, right now.

She gave me her familiar sidelong look; and I could tell that she was about to twist her words or make a pun. There was a twinkle in her eye, as she answered:

"Of corsets all right."

Or, perhaps she meant:

"Of course it's all right."

She stood up, and I moved to stand behind her. I pressed myself against her and put both my hands upon her tiny waist. Oh! What a delightful feeling it was. She was rigid; warm and yielding. She was everything I desired. I bent forward and kissed her on the neck, and she slowly revolved between my hands; turning around to look at me. She lifted her face; put her arms round me and I kissed her on the lips. This was the moment! It had to be! I released her lips; but not her waist, and said, simply:

"Dorothy; please marry me."

She replied; with equal simplicity:

"Yes; I will."

We might have stayed in that position all night, but all good things have to come to an end. We moved to sit down close to each other, and she started to plan things; becoming very practical, and insisting:

"I want a proper church wedding; not the Registrar's Office."

"But, Darling." I protested, "I haven't been in a church for years! Why, the last time I was taken to church a funny man poured water over me!"

"Please don't joke about things, and spoil it." she snapped. "Don't you know how coarse it is? No; my mind is made up; I want us to be married in the church where Mummy and Daddy were married, and I insist on wearing Mummy's wedding dress."

I was anxious to please her, and could see no undue problems about the expense:

"Very well, love; if that is what you want. I'll see about making the arrangements. What about the Honeymoon; have you any thoughts about that?"

"I want to go back to that lovely Hotel in the Lake District." she replied.

"Only this time, we'll share a room - and a bed."

A thrill ran through me, and she went on:

"Do you think they have a Bridal Suite? I'd like that. It would be so romantic."

She sighed, deeply; so I promised to ask about a Bridal Suite, and then we began discussing dates. To my surprise, she did not want to hurry, and told me that she would 'Name the Day' when she was ready.

In fact, It was some considerable time before we were able to be married, because the shop business was continuing to improve, and the holiday season was in full swing. I was kept busy on the linen side, and had taken on a few other lines related to hotels and catering, and they were proving to be very popular. Dorothy was busy in the shop, and at one stage we wondered if we should ask Freda if she could come back and help. I did my first two home consultations. They were interesting, but rather time consuming, and not sufficiently profitable to be worthwhile.

I contacted the Vicar; expecting to meet some resistance. He was quite amenable; particularly when he learnt that Dorothy's parents had been married in his church. We arranged that we would go and meet him and 'Have a little chat.' The Hotel Manager confirmed that they had a Bridal Suite; adding that it boasted a four poster bed; a fact that seemed to be of great interest to Dorothy when I told her about it.

She took her mother's wedding dress from a trunk, and looked it over. It had a very close fitting stiff brocade bodice, and long sleeves, with points over the back of the wrists. It billowed out below the waist into a positive froth of embroidered tulle. There was a very delicate veil, banded with orange blossom, and the complete ensemble reminded me of a crinoline style, from Victorian days.

I ran a connoisseur's eye over the waist, and gasped:

"But - my Darling! You'll surely never be able to wear it. Look at the waist! I know yours is lovely and small, but; what was your mother's waist size?"

"Oh, she had a sixteen inch waist on her wedding day." Dorothy replied, dreamily. "But don't you worry about it. That will be my concern, so please leave it to me."

When the arrangements were almost completed, and the wedding day was drawing near, Dorothy suddenly raised another complication:

"Darling; you know it's supposed to be unlucky for the bridegroom to see the bride in her wedding dress, before they go to church?"

I nodded.

"Do you mind spending the night in a hotel somewhere; and then meeting me at the church."

It seemed to me to be a stupid suggestion, and I nearly told her so. I did not want any last minute hitches, so I reluctantly agreed; and spent a very uncomfortable night in a seaside boarding house! I gave myself ample spare time in the morning; taking extra care with washing and dressing. Although I am careful about the fit of my corset, I have to admit that outwardly I could never hope to take any of the prizes in a competition to find the 'World's Best Dressed Man,' so I made a determined effort to look well turned out on this special day.

The events of the next few hours continue to remain hazy. I remember that I made my own way to the Church; met the Vicar at the door; went in, and was surprised to see several other people already seated. I recognised a few of the local shopkeepers, and thought how kind it was of them to come. The organist was playing something softly; the general atmosphere was quiet and dignified, and I became more and more tensed up as time passed. If I have one fault, it is a passion for punctuality; and Dorothy knows it! With less than a minute to go there was a stirring at the door; the organist began playing loudly, and everybody promptly stood up. So I stood up as well, and turned to await Dorothy.

She did not walk down the aisle; she floated! It was amazing; she was like a gossamer seed, wafted along on a zephyr breeze. Freda walked slowly behind her; wearing a dark two piece suit and a large hat. I choked down the enormous lump that was forming in my throat; Dorothy was beautiful; she could say what she liked! The bodice of her dress fitted her like a skin tight sheath; the crinoline of tulle billowed out below her tiny waist, and I feasted my eyes on her until she stood at my side.

Freda carefully lifted Dorothy's veil, and took her bouquet. Dorothy looked at me; I attempted to smile manfully, but failed, miserably. The Vicar opened the proceedings, and I tried to give all the right answers and sound as if I meant it! Dorothy's voice was soft and low; but was quite firm when she said "I will," in the same way that she had said it on the day that I had proposed. I placed the wedding ring on her finger; we signed the register; there was some more loud music, and we both walked out of the church arm in arm. Freda covered us with a shower of confetti; the photographer did his stuff, and we were then driven back to the shop in a large car.

Before I had a chance to say anything, I was firmly excluded while Dorothy went with Freda to change her clothes. She came back wearing her black suit, and looking much more relaxed. After a light meal, we put our suitcases into the van, and drove to the honeymoon hotel. Once there, we did all the conventional things, like spilling confetti on the carpet, and Dorothy saying in a loud voice "Do you take sugar, dear?" just as there was a lull in the conversation. I mislaid her later in the evening, and it appeared that she had "Just gone for a breath of air." So of course I stupidly had to ask at Reception: "Has anyone seen Miss Mason, please?" Oh yes, we made all the usual mistakes; just like any other long married couple!

When it was time for bed, Dorothy looked at me, in a significant way, and said:

"Will you give me a few minutes, love; and then come up."

I remained quietly sitting in the lounge; conscious that everybody was looking at me, until I judged that she had sufficient time to prepare herself; and then I went up to the bedroom.

 

Dorothy was sitting up in the four poster bed; waiting for me.

She was wearing a diaphanous nightdress, and smiling at me.

The bedroom lights were on, and I could see...... Everything!

 

 

Our Wedding Night was a Disaster!

  

  

  

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