by Quinn, Ella
“I do know that,” Laia responded waspishly.
Sarah sent the carriage back to the hotel and the footman Sarah had brought waited for them on the pavement, and they started off toward the main part of the town. “We will go to Milsom Street first. There is an excellent shop for stockings.”
“We will need new stockings for the ball next week,” Laia told Sarah. “And gloves. We each received the first of our new evening gowns and ball gowns and are now respectable to go out in the evening. I could not believe how out-of-date our old evening gowns were. And we have found we need other things as well.”
“It always seems to go that way,” Sarah said. “One forgets the small, but very important items. I wonder what the ball will be like.”
“No matter what happens, I intend to enjoy myself,” Euphrosyne said. And speaking of the ball, she wondered how many dances she would have. “Lord Markville asked me to stand up with him at the ball.”
Her sister gave her a disapproving look. Well, Laia might believe she should obey Father, but Euphrosyne did not. Not if he was going to pick husbands who were more than twice her age and had already gone through four wives.
They spent the next three hours visiting every shop they found, even the butcher’s. Madam Lamont had the loveliest bonnets. Sarah, Euphrosyne, and Laia each tried on several and came away with new hats. Euphrosyne bought four pairs of gloves. Then she discovered some beautiful clocked stockings and purchased several pairs of those. At one store, a red fan caught her eye, and she decided she could not leave the store without it.
“I do not think I have ever had such fun.” Euphrosyne smiled, even if she was rapidly spending all of her money.
“Nor I,” Laia agreed.
“I must buy some handkerchiefs,” Sarah said as they left one store and entered another.
“Handkerchiefs and ribbons,” Euphrosyne said. The selection far exceeded what she could find at home.
The poor footman had run out of room in his arms to carry more packages. But Sarah had discovered that many establishments would deliver, thus freeing Euphrosyne from exercising any restraint at all. After all, Mama had said to send the bills to her, and Euphrosyne’s purchases would have to last for a long time.
Down the street, they found a bakery that smelled so good they had to stop. Sarah led the way in.
“Have you tasted Bath Buns?” she asked.
Euphrosyne exchanged a look with her sister, and they shook their heads.
“In that case, you must try them.”
She was disappointed to find they had caraway, and turned up her nose at first, but decided to try the bun and was glad she did. “They are excellent. I even like the caraway.”
“You like them only because they are coated with sugar,” her sister said.
“I shall not deny that I have a sweet tooth.” She finished the confection, then wiped her hands on her handkerchief.
Upon arriving home, she sent all her purchases except her fans to her bedchamber. Once she and her sister were seated in the morning room, she unwrapped the fans, opened them, and set them on a low table.
“My gown is pink. Which one of these fans do you think would go better with it?” One was silver with a scene painted in muted gray, cream, and green. Another had ivory spokes and a pastoral painting in green and blue. The last one, her favorite, was red. That was the one she wanted to carry.
Laia made a point of looking over the fans. Her eyes widened when she saw the red one. “I think the silver fan would look the best.”
“Yes, I think that as well.” Or rather, that was the one she knew she should carry instead of the bold red. Still, she could not stop her fingers from going to the red fan. Someday she would have a gown to wear with it.
“Will you wear your clocked stockings? They are quite elegant.”
“I shall.” She’d never had such beautiful stockings before.
Perkins brought in a tray of lemon biscuits, tea, and a letter for Laia. “Her grace said to give you this.”
Euphrosyne waited for her sister to open the missive.
Her sister glanced at her. “It appears you are not the only one who has been asked to dance at the ball.”
“Mr. Paulet.” She was thrilled for her sister. “I knew he would request a set.” She pulled out the chair to the writing table and motioned for Laia to sit down. “It is a shame Meg changed her mind about the dancing party. You must answer him quickly.”
“It was very kind of him, but I am sure it is only because Hawksworth is his friend.”
“What a bag of moonshine.” Euphrosyne pulled her to the desk. “If that was it, he would have waited to see if you had sufficient dance partners.”
“Perhaps.” Laia sat down and pulled out a piece of paper while Euphrosyne mended a pen and handed it to her. “Now tell him you accept.”
Euphrosyne could hardly wait for the ball and her dance with Markville. But the way Laia had responded, Euphrosyne might have to spend more time encouraging her sister’s interest in Mr. Paulet than focusing on her own gentleman.
Chapter 4
Markville joined his brother-in-law in the parlor as Sarah was leaving. She kissed Jeremy lightly on the lips, and Markville’s thoughts went immediately to Lady Euphrosyne. Would she engage in such wifely behavior?
“Please go back to the last two houses and look at them again,” she told her husband. “I cannot decide between them.”
“I’ll make a list of their best and worst features. Then we may continue our discussion this evening.”
“Yes.” She placed her palm on her husband’s cheek.
Why was Markville all of a sudden noticing every loving gesture she made?
“That will be just the thing I need.”
Jeremy’s gaze remained on her as she left the room. “I suppose my day is now spoken for. Would you like to join me?”
“Thank you for asking, but I’m going to finish my correspondence and take a stroll around town.” Where Markville just might come across Lady Euphrosyne.
“Very well. Wish me luck.” His brother-in-law picked up his hat, gloves, and cane. “Hopefully, she will make a decision soon.”
“Good luck.” His sister’s usual method of making a decision between two things was to purchase them both.
About an hour later, Paulet hailed Markville. “Good morning.”
“Good morning to you.” Paulet fell into step. “Do you have a destination or are you at loose ends?”
“I’m merely enjoying the day. You?”
“Likewise. My brother-in-law is looking at houses, and my sister is with Ladies Laia and Euphrosyne shopping. I have it on good authority the ladies have never been shopping without their mother and then only in a small market town.”
Paulet looked appalled. “That should prove interesting.”
“Oh, I dare say they shall purchase a deal of totally unnecessary and inappropriate items that catch their eyes.” Markham laughed remembering the things his sister had bought on her first solo excursion to the shops. “Much in the way of magpies. It will do them no harm and will help whoever ends up receiving what they later realize they cannot use or do not like after all.”
“I suppose they will.” Paulet was silent as they strolled on. “I wonder what there is to buy in Bath. It is not as if it’s London.”
“No, but that won’t stop them.” Markham chuckled, but then a related thought not only sobered but angered him. “You must also remember they have never been to Town.”
“I can’t believe that was their mother’s doing,” Paulet said. “I wish I knew what Somerset was thinking.”
Markville remembered the negotiations in which he’d engaged on Sarah’s behalf, and stories he’d heard since then. “He is not an easy man.”
Paulet cut Markville a curious look. “Have you met him?”
“No, but I have exchanged correspondence with him.” Terse letters that should have warned Markville not to betroth his sister to the man’s son, whic
h thankfully came to naught in any event. “That was enough for me. What is the duchess like?”
“Gracious, caring, warm. In short, everything the duke is not.” They turned down Cheep Street. “This is the way to the Pump House.”
“I haven’t been yet and thought I might take a look,” Markville said. “I hear the waters are horrible, but the company is pleasant.”
“I heard it’s the place to be seen, and I’m not sure I want everyone and his dog to know I’m in Bath.”
Markville glanced at Paulet. What was he hiding?
“I have wanted to visit the place, though,” Paulet added.
“Walk around a bit, then leave.” I’ve become too suspicious, Markville told himself. It was probably nothing. “Aside from that, most of the ton is either in the country or in Brighton.”
“You’re right. I’ll give it a try.”
Turning onto Salt Street, they made their way to the entrance of the Pump Room. Markville was glad to see a crowd. It showed not everyone followed Prinny to Brighton. For the most part, the waters were not as fashionable as they used to be, but the place was still full of people of all ages, as it always had been. People still promenaded around the edges of the room, while servants ran to and fro fetching glasses of water for those who wished to drink it.
Lady Hawksworth was speaking with old Lady Eagle. She’d been a friend of his mother’s. After she was finished with her conversation, he’d greet her. In the meantime, he took his time surveying the room and ascertained that neither his sister nor Lady Euphrosyne was present. They were most likely still shopping.
When he did next see his sister, he should attempt to discover what plans he could convince her to make that would include Lady Euphrosyne. Lady Engle was now in conversation with another lady. He would speak to her some other time. “I’ve seen enough. Will you stay and taste the waters?”
“No, I’m ready to go as well.” Paulet strolled out with Markville.
“I have been thinking that my sister might like to put together some events that include Hawksworth’s family between now and the evening of the ball.”
“That’s a very good idea. And perhaps I shall arrange a picnic at Lansdowne.” Paulet frowned. “As long as Hawksworth doesn’t mind me asking his wife to be my hostess.”
“Under the circumstances, he’ll no doubt agree.” Markville was glad his sister had offered to help him. Otherwise, he might have trouble spending time with Lady Euphrosyne. As they reached the point where their paths separated, Markville said, “I shall see you soon.”
Jeremy arrived at the hotel at the same time Markville did. “How did it go?”
“I think the house on Laura Place must suit her better. It is closer to town than is Upper Camden Place. The appointments are elegant, and it has a large garden.” His brother-in-law pulled a face. “How did that sound?”
“I’d leave out the part about it must suit her.” Markville chuckled. “Sarah is liable to take it as a command.”
“You’re right. I shall focus on the elegance of the rooms and the easy walk to the center of town as well as the view.”
“What view?” Entering the room, Sarah removed her bonnet and placed it on a chair.
“From Laura Place.” Jeremy kissed her cheek. “Would you like wine or tea?”
“Wine sounds delightful. Have you decided on the house in Laura Place?”
“It is for you to make the final decision, but I must say, I think the house is more elegant.”
Markville buried his nose in a newssheet and pretended not to listen to the couple discuss the property.
“We could move in as soon as the staff was hired,” Jeremy added. “The house in Upper Camden Place would need some renovations before we could live there.”
“I think you are correct. Laura Place is a better choice for us,” she said. “I particularly like that it is on the corner.”
Laura Place would suit Markville well. He’d be able to see Lady Euphrosyne much more often. He set down the paper and rose. “If that is your decision, I shall arrange for the purchase immediately. I must admit, I am tired of living in a hotel.”
“Perfect. I shall have my maid visit the employment agency,” his sister said.
When he returned from the estate agent’s office, he was pleased to find himself alone. He needed the opportunity to think. If he wanted to know Lady Euphrosyne better, he had to find ways to spend more time with her. Perhaps a ride tomorrow morning would be in order, although she would naturally require a groom.
Refusing to second-guess himself, he pulled out a piece of paper and began writing.
Dear Lady Euphrosyne,
Would you do me the honor of going horseback riding with me tomorrow morning at eight o’clock?
My servant will await your reply.
Yr. Servant,
Markville
The missive was a bit formal, but they didn’t know each other well. The suggested hour was early, but she mentioned that she liked morning rides. He sanded the letter and sealed it.
Hearing his valet in the dressing room, he called, “Smithson, I have a letter to be delivered.”
“I shall see it done straightaway, my lord.” Smithson took the letter and bowed.
“Send one of my footmen and have him wait for an answer.” Normally, Markville would have sent a groom, but he wanted the servant in livery to make a better impression. Not so much on Lady Euphrosyne—he didn’t think she would care—but with the duchess.
The door closed, and his valet’s steps moved rapidly down the corridor. Now the waiting began.
* * *
Euphrosyne was in the morning room reading when Mama entered.
“Euphrosyne.” Her mother handed her a letter that had come. “Lord Markville has invited you to go riding tomorrow morning.”
The invitation was short, but the writing was in a bold, commanding hand that gave Euphrosyne more information about his lordship than she’d had before. A delightful thrill raced through her. “May I go?”
“I do not see a reason for you not to accompany him if you wish.”
“Thank you, Mama.” Sitting down at the small cherry desk, Euphrosyne wrote a short reply accepting his invitation. After sealing her letter, she gave it to the footman outside the door. “Please give this to the messenger.”
She went back to her book, but it failed to hold her attention. The only problem with knowing when she would see Lord Markville was waiting for morning to come.
Not long afterward, Meg sailed into the room. “I would like to invite you to dine with us tomorrow evening.”
“That would be lovely.” Mama motioned Meg to the place on the sofa next to her. “Is that the only reason for your visit?”
“No, I have had a letter from my grandmother that is full of news.”
Mama rang for more tea, and she and Meg settled in for a comfortable coze. Euphrosyne, not being particularly interested in talk about people she would most likely never meet, slid out of the room. Surely she could find something to speed the hours until tomorrow.
* * *
The next morning, sun streamed in the room as Euphrosyne woke. Thankfully, it looked to be another lovely day. Now that she thought of it, this summer had been the warmest and driest one she could remember.
Her habit was already spread out across a chair. She glanced at the clock and found she had an hour before Lord Markville would come for her.
“My lady.” Turner entered the room carrying a tray with tea and a sandwich on it. “I thought you might want something to eat before you go riding.”
“Thank you.” Normally, Euphrosyne would have toast to keep her until she broke her fast with her mother and sister. Today, she would probably require more sustain her.
At five minutes until the hour, she was ready to go and tempted to look out the window. Instead, she began to pace. Then, just as the clock struck the hour, Lord Markville plied the knocker.
Seconds later, she was informed of his arrival
. Keeping in mind the books she had read that made mention of how a lady should greet a gentleman, she made her way sedately down the stairs.
And just like in the stories, he gazed up at her. A slight smile curved his well-molded lips as he moved to take her hand. “Good morning, my lady.”
“Good morning, my lord.” Euphrosyne grinned before remembering to incline her head like a sophisticated lady would do. “Shall we be off?”
“As you wish.” He settled her hand on his arm. “I looked at a map and thought we might ride toward Charlcombe.”
“That sounds lovely.” Not that she knew where Charlcombe was. Still, she was certain she’d enjoy the ride.
They made their way through streets crowded with tradesmen and crossed the Pulteney Bridge as she had done on the walk to Sidney Gardens, but then they turned right instead of left. Soon after leaving the town, they found a place to canter.
“I’ll race you to the tree,” Euphrosyne called, not waiting for him to start. Moments later his black was keeping pace with Estelle, and Euphrosyne remembered what he had said the other day. “He does appear as if he is happy to run alongside her.”
Markville’s gray eyes turned silvery and intent. But what did that mean? “He does. I believe there is a stream close to here. Shall we find it and give our beasts water?”
He had obviously studied the map well to know about a brook. Then again he did say he had visited Bath in the past. “Have you been here before?”
“No. When we had outings, Lansdowne was the preferred place. I thought it too far away for an early morning ride.” They walked the horses a little way into the woods to find the brook. “Here it is.”
The stream raced over rocks and wasn’t suitable for easy watering of the horses. “It’s pretty, but we would have to lead them into it for them to drink,” Euphrosyne said.
“It was an idea.” He glanced up at the sky, just discernable through the green canopy of leafs. “We should probably start back.”
As far as Euphrosyne was concerned, the ride had been much too short. As if Lord Markville agreed, they ambled slowly back to the road, talking as they went.