Wellington is standing at the bow of the Victory and is gazing out across London harbor. A couple of minutes later he hears some footsteps behind him and Horatio Nelson stands beside Wellington. Horatio Nelson starts speaking in a calm voice.

Horatio Nelson: Well it's almost been a month since the battle. How are you feeling Wellesley?
Wellington: I could be better.
Horatio Nelson: Still wondering about what happened to your brother?
Wellington: I don't even know if he's dead or alive.

Horatio Nelson: You are going to have to move on Wellesley.
Wellington: It's hard.
Horatio Nelson: I understand that it's hard for you to move on. But you can't allow this to keep bothering you.
Wellington: Your right Nelson. I can't let it keep bothering me.

Horatio Nelson puts his hand on Wellington's shoulder. Wellington quietly sighs to himself and continues looking out at the harbor.

*Wellington in thought*
Henry even though you don't love me anymore I still love you. You better be alive for my sake.

I don't want to find out that you have died in some sort of accident. You still mean a lot to me even though you betrayed me.

Nelson is right though I still need to move on from Henry's betrayal. Even though betrayals do hurt a lot.

Horatio Nelson starts speaking in a calm yet serious tone.

Horatio Nelson: Are you planning to try and go for Prime Minister?
Wellington: That I'm still thinking about.
Horatio Nelson: Take your time it is a difficult decision to make. After all, you will be making decisions for the whole country if you do become Prime Minister.
Wellington: I would also have to deal with many more people not liking my decisions.

Horatio Nelson: Dont be so negative Wellesley. I don't think that everyone would hate you, especially after what you did out on the battlefield.
Wellington: I'm also unsure about being in such a powerful position. Leading a country would be more difficult than leading an army.
Horatio Nelson: Indeed but I know that you have excellent leadership, Wellesley. You do have the qualities that would make you a great Prime Minister.
Wellington: Your right Nelson. But I'm unsure if I'm ready.
Horatio Nelson: Again take your time to think about it. Don't rush into something without thinking.
Wellington: Your right I shouldn't rush myself.

*Wellington in thought*
I guess Nelson is right I do have the right qualities that would make me a great Prime Minister.

Although leading a nation is different from leading an army. You have to worry about the opinions of a lot of people. I have also heard that people in parliament can be difficult at times according to William. But thats just William's opinion as well he doesn't like people he considers to be difficult.

Still, I feel like I need more time to think about my decision. I can't be rushing into things thats not the right thing to do. It's best to think first.

Horatio Nelson smiles at Wellington and starts speaking in a calm yet slightly cheerful tone.

Horatio Nelson: I shall be off Wellesley I have things to do.
Wellington: Alright Nelson.
Horatio Nelson: Don't forget what I told you. Remember don't rush your decision about being Prime Minister. Also, try to move on from Henry I don't want you to be suffering. Because you can't move on from the incident.
Wellington: Yes Nelson.

Horatio Nelson: If you do need any advice from me you can send me a letter at any time.
Wellington: Alright Nelson.

Horatio Nelson calmly walks off leaving Wellington gazing out at the city. Eventually, he loses himself in his own thoughts and begins reflecting on what happened between him and Henry. Tears start slowly streaming down his face and he tries to wipe them away. But more tears keep coming. A few minutes later Wellington hears footsteps behind him. Kitty Wellesley walks up to Wellington and stands beside him. She then notices the tears streaming down his face and starts speaking in a soft and comforting voice.

Kitty Wellesley: Arthur what's wrong?
Wellington: I'm still struggling to move on from Henry. I'm worried that he might be dead and I don't even know. I still do love him even though he hates me.
Kitty Wellesley: I understand that you are struggling to move on. But I don't want you to be suffering because of Henry's decision. He made his choice and you need to move on.
Wellington: It's just that it's hard. Because I still do love him, Kitty.
Kitty Wellesley: I understand that it's hard. But I will be here. Richard, William, and Lord Nelson are also here for you.

Wellington: Your right I shouldn't be letting myself suffer like this, my love.
Kitty Wellesley: Besides we do have Richard's celebration to look forward to.
Wellington: My love you know that I don't like parties. So I'm hoping that Richard decided to only stick with family. I hope that he didn't decide to bring all his friends.
Kitty Wellesley: I'm sure that he kept his promise. Richard is good at keeping promises.
Wellington: That is true.

Kitty Wellesley gently grabs Wellington's hand she then slowly lifts it and kisses it. She then let's go and wipes the last of the tears from Wellington's face. Wellington then smiles and passionately kisses Kitty on the lips. A couple of minutes later Kitty gently breaks the kiss and they both begin gazing out at the city. 30 minutes later the Victory docks at the port. Horatio Nelson walks up to Wellington and Kitty. He smiles and starts speaking in a cheerful voice.

Horatio Nelson: I guess this is farewell for now Arthur and Kitty Wellesley.
Wellington: I guess so my dear friend.
Horatio Nelson: Dont forget what I told you, Arthur.
Wellington: I won't.
Horatio Nelson: Good.

Wellington and Kitty Wellesley both begin making their way off the Victory. Once they get off the Victory they notice Richard Wellesley standing out near the street in front of a carriage and begin quickly making their way to him. A couple of minutes later they get to Richard who smiles at them and starts speaking in a calm voice.

Richard Wellesley: Welcome home you two. I'm glad that you both have made it home safely.
Wellington: It's honestly good to be home, Richard. I feel like I've been wanting to get home for a while.
Kitty Wellesley: I've been wanting the same thing as well Arthur.
Richard Wellesley: I hope that you are ready for the celebration Arthur.

Wellington: I am as ready as I will ever be I guess. But please tell me that you only invited family and not all your friends. You know that I don't like large parties.
Richard Wellesley: Yes I only invited family. William and I invited some of our children.
Wellington: I suppose it will be good to see some of my nieces and nephews
Richard Wellesley: Well let's get going then we don't want to be late.
Wellington: Alright.

Richard Wellesley opens the door to the carriage and allows Wellington and Kitty to enter. Upon entering the carriage they notice a young woman with short brown curly hair and brown eyes and is wearing a white dress sitting across from them. Richard then gets in the carriage and sits down next to the young woman and closes the door. The carriage starts moving and Richard joyfully smiles at Kitty and Wellington. Wellington smiles a little bit and starts speaking in a cheerful voice.

Wellington: So Richard who is this that you have brought along?
Richard Wellesley: This is my daughter Anne Wellesley.
Wellington: Oh it's been a while since I've seen you, Anne.
Anne Wellesley: Same with you uncle Arthur. Or should I say, Lord Wellington?

Wellington: No need for the titles Anne.
Anne Wellesley: You know that I'm use to being formal.
Wellington: Yes I know that. But we are family so the titles aren't necessary.
Anne Wellesley: I understand.

A couple of hours later they arrive at the castle. Richard Wellesley opens the door to the carriage and he gets out. Anne Wellesley goes to get out and Richard gently grabs her hand and helps her out. Wellington gets out of the carriage and then helps Kitty out of the carriage. Richard then closes the carriage door and the carriage rides off into the distance. Richard, Anne, Wellington, and Kitty begin making their way into the castle. Richard then starts speaking in a calm voice.

Richard Wellesley: Go find your brother Anne I want to make sure he isn't causing trouble.
Anne Wellesley: Yes father.

Anne Wellesley walks down a different hallway and Wellington smirks at Richard. Richard notices the look on Wellington's face and he starts speaking in a calm yet slightly cheerful voice.

Richard Wellesley: Don't give me that look, Arthur.
Wellington: Your boy Gerald doesn't cause trouble when there is a battle to fight.
Richard Wellesley: Yes but when there is no battle to fight he just starts causing trouble.
Wellington: I don't know how he would react seeing me here. After all, I am his commander.

Richard Wellesley: Well he listens to you more than he does with me.
Wellington: I'm sure that he will listen to you eventually Richard.
Richard Wellesley: He better as I have had enough of him causing trouble.
Wellington: Now don't be hard on him Richard.

A few minutes later a young man with short light brown hair and sky blue eyes. Who is wearing the uniform of a Lieutenant Colonel exits the dining room. Upon noticing Wellington he immediately salutes. Wellington smiles and stops then he starts speaking in a calm voice.

Wellington: Good to see you, Gerald.
Gerald Wellesley: Good to see you, My Lord.
Wellington: Gerald no need for the titles right now. We aren't at war.
Gerald Wellesley: I understand that uncle.

Wellington: I hope that you haven't been causing as much trouble as your father says.
Gerald Wellesley: No I haven't been causing that much trouble.
Wellington: Well it seems that someone is telling the truth, Richard. And you were being a bit dramatic Richard.

Richard Wellesley rolls his eyes and Gerald Wellesley heads back into the dining room. Wellington smiles and starts speaking in a cheerful voice.

Wellington: Now where are my boys Richard?
Richard Wellesley: They are with William he has been keeping an eye on them.
Wellington: Well I hope that they didn't cause you too much trouble. I know what they can be like at times.
Richard Wellesley: They haven't caused any trouble at all Arthur don't worry.

Wellington: Thats good to hear.
Richard Wellesley: They will be really happy to see you two.
Wellington: Indeed they have probably been missing us a lot.
Richard Wellesley: They have been missing you both a lot.

Wellington, Kitty, and Richard begin walking down the hallway once more. Eventually, they reach the lounge area where William Wellesley is sitting on a leather chair reading the newspaper. While Arthur and Charles are playing with their toy soldiers at the table. Richard starts speaking in a calm and slightly cheerful voice.

Richard Wellesley: Boys two people are here to see you.

The two boys put their toy soldiers down and look over at the doorway. They notice Wellington and Kitty Wellesley standing there smiling at them. Arthur and Charles immediately sprint over to their parents and hug them. Wellington starts speaking in a cheerful voice.

Wellington: It's good to see you two. I hope that you have been well.
Arthur: We have missed you, mum and dad!
Charles: Yes we have. We didn't cause any trouble we promise.
Kitty Wellesley: Thats good boys.

Wellington: I'm glad that you two haven't caused any trouble.
Arthur: Why would we cause trouble, dad?
Charles: Exactly.
Wellington: We know how you two can be sometimes. You do enjoy causing mischief at times.

Arthur and Charles start giggling a lot. A couple of minutes later they run over to the table and grab their toy soldiers. Then they sprint past Richard, Wellington, and Kitty and begin making their way to the dining room. Wellington walks over to William and smiles. William notices Wellington and he folds his newspaper up and puts it down. William smiles a little bit and starts speaking in a slightly cheerful tone.

William Wellesley: Glad to see that you are home and that you are well Arthur.
Wellington: I'm also glad to be home, William.
William Wellesley: Are you still thinking about becoming Prime Minister Arthur?
Wellington: I still haven't made up my mind. I still need time to think about it.

William Wellesley: I understand that. But remember Arthur if you do need any political advice I'm here for you.
Wellington: I understand that William.
William Wellesley: Good.
Wellington: I guess I shall leave you to reading your newspaper.
William Wellesley: I will see you at the celebration dinner Arthur.
Wellington: Yes.

William then grabs his newspaper and continues reading it. Wellington walks back over to Kitty and Richard. Richard Wellesley starts speaking in a calm yet slightly serious voice.

Richard Wellesley: I will see you two at dinner. I have some political documents to take care of.
Wellington: Alright Richard.
Kitty Wellesley: Alright.

Richard Wellesley calmly walks off in the direction of his study. Kitty Wellesley gently grabs Wellington's hand and they begin making their way to the dining room together. Upon entering the dining room they notice Anne reading a book at the table, Gerald setting up a chessboard, and Charles and Arthur playing with their toy soldiers. Gerald smiles at Wellington then he starts speaking in a cheerful voice.

Gerald Wellesley: Come on uncle I want to see if I can win against you.
Anne Wellesley: You couldn't even win against our father so what makes you think that you can win against uncle Arthur?
Gerald Wellesley: Because I'm great at strategy.
Anne Wellesley: You have forgotten who is the master strategist and it's not you. I wish you luck anyway.

Gerald Wellesley: Why are you so rude to me!? Fine, I'll play against you later dear sister, and prove to you that I'm great at strategy!
Anne Wellesley: Fine I accept your challenge. But trust me I will win.
Gerald Wellesley: Sure you will. Anyway, do you still want to play against me, uncle?
Wellington: Sure Gerald. However, I won't go too easy on you.
Gerald Wellesley: Thats fine with me I do like a challenge.

Wellington sits down in front of Gerald. He notices the determination in Gerald's eyes and smiles. Kitty Wellesley walks over to Arthur and Charles and begins to supervise them playing. Gerald plays his first move and smiles with confidence.

*Wellington in thought*
He's always been so confident. Sometimes even too confident.

However, he's always been intelligent, and sometimes even cunning. I have seen that in battle.

Well, this will be a great match. I won't mind doing something like this instead of fighting in a war. Although I'm sure that Gerald feels the same way.

Wellington plays his first move and Gerald sits there calmly thinking to himself. A couple of minutes later Richard walks past the entrance to the dining room. But he does a double take and stands in the doorway and smiles noticing that Wellington and Gerald are having some fun. He then walks off feeling glad that everyone is bonding. A couple of hours later Wellington plays his last move then he starts speaking in a calm and cheerful voice.

Wellington: Checkmate Gerald. You did well.
Gerald Wellesley: Thank you.
Wellington: I believe that you will be an excellent strategist one day Gerald. Just don't give up on that.
Gerald Wellesley: I won't.
Wellington: Good.

Wellington gets up from his seat and exits the dining room. Then he begins walking down the hallway and making his way to Richard's study. A few minutes later he gets to the study and gently knocks on the door. He then starts speaking in a calm yet serious voice.

Wellington: Richard may I talk to you about something?
Richard Wellesley: Yes come in Arthur.

Wellington opens the door and enters Richard's study. He then gently closes the door behind him. Richard stops writing and puts his quill down beside his papers then he looks up at Wellington. Richard starts speaking in a calm voice.

Richard Wellesley: Arthur is there something wrong?
Wellington: No there is nothing wrong Richard.
Richard Wellesley: What is it then Arthur?
Wellington: I feel like I have made my decision Richard.

Richard Wellesley: Decision for what Arthur?
Wellington: My decision about becoming Prime Minister.
Richard Wellesley: Well what have you decided Arthur?
Wellington: I have decided that I won't do it just yet. I just feel like I need to spend more time with my wife and my children. I also want to wait till my boys have grown up a bit more I don't want to be absent again while they are still growing up.
Richard Wellesley: I see. Well, you have possibly made a good choice Arthur. It's good to put family first.

Tears suddenly start streaming down Wellington's face. Richard notices this and he starts speaking in a comforting voice.

Richard Wellesley: Arthur what's upsetting you?
Wellington: It's just that I'm concerned about what has possibly happened to Henry.
Richard Wellesley: Why? What happened?
Wellington: I just saw Henry run off after the battle. He was with his new friend and the French Marshal. I'm just concerned if he is still alive or not.

Richard Wellesley: Arthur I'm sure that he is alright. Don't worry so much.
Wellington: I'm just struggling to move on from Henry betraying me and wanting to end my life.
Richard Wellesley: Moving on takes time Arthur. But I know that you can move on and overcome this. You are a strong man Arthur.
Wellington: Your right Richard.
Richard Wellesley: Now wipe away those tears it's almost time for the celebration dinner.

Wellington wipes away his tears and takes a deep breath. Richard Wellesley nods at him then he cheerfully smiles at him. Wellington then opens the door and exits the study. Then he closes the door behind him and starts walking down the hallway making his way to the dining room. Upon reaching the dining room Wellington walks over to where Arthur and Charles are playing and he sits down and watches them. A few hours later the dining room has now been set up with plates of food and some drinks. Everyone is sitting at the table while the two boys are sitting in a corner playing. Richard then raises his glass, and he starts speaking in a calm yet slightly cheerful voice.

Richard Wellesley: I want to make a toast to my dear brother Arthur. To congratulate him on becoming the Duke of Wellington. Cheers.
William Wellesley: Cheers.
Kitty Wellesley: Cheers my love.
Anne Wellesley: Cheers.
Gerald Wellesley: Cheers uncle.
Wellington: Thank you all.

They all raise their glasses and clink them together. A couple of minutes later they all begin eating their food. Kitty Wellesley then starts speaking in a calm voice.

Kitty Wellesley: Boys come eat your dinner.
Arthur: Yes mummy.
Charles: Coming mummy.

Arthur and Charles put their toy soldiers away in their pockets. Then they get up and rush over to the table and sit down they then start eating. A few minutes later Wellington stops eating and starts speaking in a calm yet serious tone.

Wellington: Everyone I have an important announcement to make.

Everyone else stops eating and they all look at Wellington. Wellington continues speaking in a calm yet serious tone.

Wellington: I have made my decision about the whole thing with people wanting me to become Prime Minister.
Kitty Wellesley: What have you decided my love?
William Wellesley: Go ahead Arthur tell us your decision. We will all accept it no matter which decision you have chosen.
Kitty Wellesley: William is right my dear.

Wellington: I have decided that I won't become Prime Minister just yet. As I want to spend more time with my family. I feel like I have been spending too much time away from them and I don't want to have to be absent again after just returning home.
Kitty Wellesley: I respect your decision, Arthur.
William Wellesley: I'm sure that we all respect his decision.
Wellington: Thank you all for understanding.

Everyone begins eating again and an hour later everyone has finished eating. Anne and Gerald are playing a game of chess. William is reading his newspaper and Richard is reading a book. Arthur and Charles are sitting in a corner playing while Wellington and Kitty are watching them play. A few minutes later Kitty Wellesley starts speaking in a calm voice.

Kitty Wellesley: Boys I think it's time for us to go home it's getting late.

Arthur and Charles put their toys in their pockets and get up off the floor. Richard Wellesley starts speaking in a calm voice.

Richard Wellesley: There is a carriage waiting for you outside. I wish you a safe journey home.
Wellington: Thank you for all of this Richard I have enjoyed spending time with everyone here.
Richard Wellesley: Your welcome Arthur. I hope to see you again soon.
Wellington: Same with you Richard.

Richard Wellesley: Well goodbye and good night.
Wellington: Goodnight Richard.
Kitty Wellesley: Goodnight Richard.
Arthur: Goodnight uncle Richard.
Charles: See you again soon uncle Richard!

Kitty Wellesley, Wellington, Charles, and Arthur exit the dining room and begin making their way down the hallway. A few minutes later they exit the castle and walk over to the carriage. Wellington opens the door of the carriage and allows Kitty to get in. He then helps Arthur and Charles into the carriage. Wellington then gets into the carriage and closes the door. The carriage then starts moving forward and begins to make it's way down the street. A couple of hours later they are at Apsley House. Wellington is sitting down in his leather chair reading a book. Charles and Arthur begin slowly creeping over. However, Wellington looks up from his book and immediately notices them. The two boys immediately freeze on the spot. Wellington smiles and he starts speaking in a calm voice.

Wellington: You two aren't going to take my hat this time. I know what you were up to.
Arthur: We were so close!
Charles: You were making too much noise Arthur that's why he noticed us!
Arthur: I wasn't! You were the one making too much noise. You weren't tiptoeing!

Wellington: Boys that's enough. I think that it's time for you two to go to bed.
Arthur: Fine.
Charles: Fine.
Wellington: Come on then you two.

Wellington puts his book down on a nearby table. Then he gets up and begins walking down the nearby hallway. Arthur and Charles quickly follow their father. A couple of minutes later Wellington opens the door to the boy's room. Both of the boys then rush into the room and climb into their beds. Wellington then walks over and tucks them both in. He then starts speaking in a cheerful voice.

Wellington: Good night my dear boys sleep well.
Arthur: Good night dad.
Charles: Good night dad.

Wellington exits the room and quietly closes the door behind him. Kitty Wellesley walks up to him and smiles she then starts speaking in a calm voice.

Kitty Wellesley: I think it's time for us to go to bed as well my love.
Wellington: You are right Kitty.

Kitty Wellesley and Wellington begin making their way down the hallway and up the nearby stairs. A couple of minutes later they enter their room and Wellington hangs up his hat and coat on the wall hanger. He then sits down on the bed and takes off his jet black boots. Wellington and Kitty then get into bed. Kitty Wellesley starts speaking in a calm and slightly cheerful voice.

Kitty Wellesley: Good night Arthur.
Wellington: Good night my dear.

They both close their eyes and enter a deep and peaceful sleep.

To be Continued...