Dearest Reader,

One scarcely knows where to begin, when discussing the recent occasion of the Bridgerton Spring Tea held at the beautiful grounds of the Elkridge Furnace Inn. There were so many things that made the day one to remember for a very long time.

On an absolutely beautiful day in May, I, along with my companion, Lady Octavia Westmoreland, arrived by car driven by my daughter. Upon entry our reservation was confirmed and we were immediately escorted to our places at one of five long, luxuriously appointed tables.

With pleasant music playing in the background, my companion and I, became acquainted with others who gathered at this lovely setting.

Soon afterward, The Queen arrived, warmly greeting us and insuring us that we were in for an enjoyable repast. She also pointed out that between courses she would be answering questions relating to Tea Etiquette which were listed on the pages of the menu.

Alas! Her answer to one of the questions came a bit too late for most of us. For being brought up on this side of “The Pond” we were photographed with our pinkies fully extended! Through the Queen’s instruction we learned that this affectation, which we were always taught was polite, was, in fact, considered a faux pas. In England the pinky is firmly tucked under while sipping one’s tea. This makes absolute sense, actually, especially for a person with rather large hands, such as myself, as it adds more support for holding dainty teacups.

The teas were paired with each course. The Duke and Duchess Honey Breakfast Tea was served with soft and warm Duchess of Hastings Peach Melba Scone with clotted cream and tasty jam. Of course, the vichyssoise and the chèvre salad were served with Harney & Son’s Paris Tea. Classic Darjeeling accompanied the main course, which included Coronation Chicken and Prawn Polenta Crostini. But the crowning achievement may have been the final plate which contained five desserts including Miss Penelope’s Bijoux Blondie and Key Lime Trifle paired with Featherington Blood Orange Mimosa Tea.

I should also report that there was a cash bar with wines, cocktails and Brandy Spiked Whistledown Punch for those who wished something more potent than their tea.

Rather than redundantly singling out every menu item, it is no exaggeration to say  that everything was perfectly splendid. And though some boorish people may look upon the portions and call them meager by American standards, the courses together were quite filling and each bite brought a smile to this diner’s face.

When The Queen was not upon her throne she invited us to sit there for photos, while she checked on her guests, ensuring we were using the etiquette she had taught us, such as folding our napkins correctly or resting our  teacups at precisely nine o’clock or three o’clock (depending on which was our dominant hand).

After we roundly applauded Her Majesty’s Master Chef and his staff, The Queen invited us to visit the gardens and take photographs.

If you, Dear Reader, happened to miss this particular tea, you need not completely despair. Though The Bridgerton Tea may not reappear for some time, there are many other themed teas available. Information is to be had at the site of the Elkridge Furnace Inn.

With Earnest Sincerity,

Dolley Black

(aka D. M. Cross)

See other photos in The Bridgerton Tea Gallery.