About this story
At the new schoolhouse a shadow lifts a candle to the frosted window: Fancy Day, the schoolmistress who arrived only yesterday, asking who led that last tune. A few traded lines leave the older musicians teasing you the rest of the walk home, and by the following evening's dance you have only a moment to claim her hand before Mr Shiner reaches her first.
How it opens
Snow muffled the hollow lane while stars burned above the bare beech branches.
Your father's old bass viol rode beneath its green cloth against his shoulder.
Reuben DewyKeep the strings dry, Dick. Christmas music should not arrive coughing.
Michael MailMy serpent has survived worse weather and several worse players.
Thomas LeafI shall remember every word tonight, unless the tune frightens it away.
Choose
Let us sound the opening note here, where no sleepers can complain.
Save your breath. Mr Paddock's chimney is already in sight.