by Ella Quinn
“My lady.” Banwell set a small silver salver next to her. “You have correspondence from Lady Adeline and Miss Stern.”
How he knew that, Dorie had never discovered. She supposed it was something all good butlers knew how to do. “Thank you.”
She broke the seal of Adeline’s missive, and Dorie was glad she had already eaten.
My dear Dorie,
I happened to come across Miss Emerson this morning while on my walk. Mr. Seaton-Smythe is to speak with her father this morning. We shall have to strike her from our list.
Your friend,
A. W.
Well, drat. That left only Lady Victoria and Lady Leticia. If only she knew of some of the young ladies just out who had the qualifications required. Yet even her friends did not wish to take the position of Lord Exeter’s wife. Opening the other note, Dorie hoped Henrietta did not have more bad news.
Dear Dorie,
I spoke with my sister about our choices for a wife for Lord Exeter and she suggested we concentrate on Lady Leticia as she is not looking for a love match. In fact, she does not wish for one.
Your Friend,
Henrietta
That was welcome news. Although Dorie had not mentioned that requirement, it was at the heart of the matter. A gentleman who must marry quickly did not have time for a love match. Or the inclination. How they had all forgotten Miss Pamela Mannering and Lady Marah Grant, Dorie did not know.
“Good morning.” Dorie’s younger sister Ophelia wandered into the breakfast room, looked at the sideboard, and sat in her usual chair, poured a cup of tea and spread strawberry jam carefully from edge to edge of a piece of toast before cutting it into thirds. “Tilly is taking me to the Tower of London today. Penelope and Phillida are coming too.”
“You must be sure to visit the White Tower. You can see much of London from there.”
“I feel sorry for them. Especially Penelope. She doesn’t know anyone her age.”
Once Ophelia had got over her theatrical stage, she had become concerned with the plight of others. “I shall give that some thought. Better yet, Mama might know of someone.”
“Yes, that is a good idea.” Her sister took her plate to the sideboard. “She knows more ladies with children.”
“She does.” Dorie finished her breakfast. “Do you mind if I leave you? I have some things I need to do before Caro arrives.”
“Not at all,” Ophelia said. “I must hurry or I shall be late for my lessons.”
“Have a good day.” Dorie went to the music room. She had been so busy of late that she had not had an opportunity to play the piano. An hour later she changed and was waiting in the morning room when her sister-in-law Caro, Countess of Huntley, came into the room. “I told Banwell he need not announce me.”
Dorie rose and bussed her sister-in-law’s cheek. “I think he just likes doing it. Shall we go?”
“Yes.” Caro linked her arm with Dorie’s. “I have heard of a new shop selling lace in Pantheon’s Bazaar.”
Dorie laughed. “We should definitely visit them. I would also like to go to Hatchards.”
“Of course. No shopping trip would be the same if we did not look at books.”
After a footman handed them into Caro’s carriage, Dorie thought her sister-in-law might be able to help. “Do you happen to know of any sixteen-year-old girls?”
“As a matter of fact, I do.” Caro settled her skirts, then gave her full attention to Dorie. “Why do you ask?”
“Lord Exeter has a sister that age and one who is fourteen. Phillida, the fourteen-year-old, has Ophelia to visit and talk to, but Penelope has no one.”
“Anna Rutherford. Do you know her?” Dorie nodded, having met the lady a few times. “Well, Anna’s husband has a sister who is sixteen. She is new in Town this year as well. We could arrange to introduce them. If Anna does not have other plans, how does tea tomorrow sound?”
“That would be wonderful. I cannot think how lonely poor Penelope must be.” Dorie had always had friends both at home and in Town. Lady Exeter should have made a point of introducing both girls to ladies of their own age. That thought stopped Dorie. She did not think Lady Rutherford would hold Penelope’s mother’s behavior against her, but Dorie should not hide the facts. “Did you know that the Lady Exeter ran off with another man shortly after she brought the daughters to Town? She married him, but it was only a few months after her husband’s death.”
Caro’s eyes widened. “I had no idea. She must have been extremely quiet about the whole affair. If you are worried about Anna not wanting her sister-in-law to know Exeter’s sister, you do not have to be concerned. I’d eat my new bonnet if she cared at all.” Caro grinned. “And I am extremely partial to my new hat.”
“Thank you.” That was a relief. But how many others would feel the same? And how would Exeter react if his sisters were excluded from Polite Society?
“It is very nice of you to wish to assist him.” Caro gave Dorie a questioning look. “Are you interested in him?”
“No.” That came out too quickly and emphatically. Her sister-in-law raised a brow. “I mean he needs a great deal of help, but that is all. He must marry, and I do not believe he is interested in a love match.”
Caro gave a thrill of laughter. “My dear sister. Most men are not until they are.”
Dorie did not know what, exactly, that meant, but she did not wish to discuss him or give anyone the idea she might be interested. She was not. She would not be and that was that.
* * * *
Alex had raised his hand to knock on the door of Huntingdon House when the door opened.
“My lord.” The butler bowed. “Her ladyship is waiting for you.” He followed the servant to a bright room at the back of the house. “My lady, the Marquis of Exeter.”
“Exeter.” Her ladyship rose and came toward him. “Let us sit at the table so that I can see what you have.”
She led him to a round cherry table with four chairs, and he waited for her to take a seat, then placed the paper he had received from his sister’s governess before her. “I am concerned not about the course of study, but that it does not include the things that ladies must learn.”
Her ladyship held the document up, perusing it. “I must agree with you. I know my daughter had approved a plan for their lessons, but I can guarantee you this was not it. How long has she been with you?”
Shrugging, Alex shook his head. “I have no idea.”
Lady Huntingdon frowned at the papers. “I shall have our governess, Miss Tillerson, speak to your sisters.” The lady smiled. “She has a way of encouraging young ladies to talk.”
“I would appreciate that.” It would be better than him trying to question Miss Rivers. While he was here he might as well try to help Penelope. “Can you tell me if you know anyone with a sixteen-year-old daughter? Penelope does not know anyone here.”
“Not that I can think of, but there is bound to be someone. I will enquire tomorrow while I am making morning calls.”
Unable to think of anything else, Alex rose. “Thank you for your help.”
“You are very welcome. If there is anything else you require, please do not hesitate to ask.”
Your daughter’s hand in marriage. Somehow he could not bring himself to say that. “I shall apply to you directly.”
Her ladyship tugged the bell-pull. “Our butler will show you out.”
Alex bowed and followed the servant to the hall.
He thought of going to White’s or Boodle’s, but decided to go back to the estate journals. He had a great deal to learn in a very short time. If only he could find someone to take better care of his sisters than he was doing and balance his accounts he would not feel so harried. Then he remembered he had not looked at his diary today or gone through his correspondence. He hoped Lord Huntingdon had sent the names of a fe
w gentlemen who were willing to become his secretary. There were not enough hours in the day to accomplish all he must.
Shortly after Alex returned home, Coyne brought him the post. “I took the liberty of sorting the letters into invitations and business correspondence, my lord.”
“I should hire you to be my secretary.” Alex took the first letter from the shorter stack.
For a moment, the man looked startled, then he must have decided Alex was making a joke. “Thank you for your confidence, but I am quite happy in my present position.”
As Mrs. Wooton had not volunteered any information about the governess, he decided to ask his butler. “Coyne, do you happen to know how long the governess has been with us?”
“Unfortunately, I do not. Her ladyship only came to Town for a few weeks during the Seasons. She did not bring your sisters. The butler at Longwood might know.”
Therefore, the woman could have been with them for a long time or not. “Thank you. You may go.”
“My lord.” His butler bowed and left the study.
He opened the first letter and discovered it was from Lord Huntingdon giving him the names and directions of two younger sons who were interested in positions as secretaries.
Knowing that you require someone as soon as possible, I told Mr. Wheaton to wait on you at ten tomorrow morning and Mr. Cunningham to wait upon you at eleven. You will note that I enclosed their respective qualifications…
Alex glanced at the second recommendation. Mr. Wheaton had finished a fourth year at Oxford where he took a first in Latin and Philosophy. Other than assisting his father, he had no work experience. Still, that would come with time. Mr. Cunningham was older and had a more interesting history and employment experience. He had an interest in politics and came from a large family. He had been meant for the church, but found it did not suit him. During that time, he had served as a clerk for the Archbishop of Canterbury in the Doctors’ Commons office. Alex would have to see which gentleman suited him and his needs the best.
He opened his calendar. There were two balls this evening. He had sent acceptances to both of them, but he’d discover which one Lady Dorie planned to attend and merely make an appearance at the other one.
At five o’clock, he called for his horse to be brought around and headed to the Park. He made one circuit and started around again and found Lady Dorie with Lord Bottomley talking to the ladies he’d met at the musical evening.
Coming up beside them, he doffed his topper. “Good day, ladies, Bottomley. How has your day been?”
“Productive,” Lady Dorie said. “I spoke with my father about the gentlemen he had recommended to you as a secretary. I know them both, and either of the men would do an excellent job.”
“That was kind of you.” He should not be surprised. She had already gone out of her way for his family. It was a shame her alacrity had not been extended to him directly.
“Think nothing of it, my lord.” She gave an airy wave of her hand. “That is what neighbors are for.”
Miss Stern glanced at him. “My lord, you have met most of the ladies, except for Lady Leticia, and Miss Chatham. I shall make the introductions and you may ask them if they have sets free for Lady Elliott’s ball.”
That was helpful. At least now he knew which ball they were attending. Elliott had said he would ensure Alex received an invitation and it had come today. He wanted to ask Lady Dorie to dance, but then he’d have to ask the rest of them as well, and she was the only lady with whom he wished to stand up. Despite that, he requested a set from each one of them. Then turned to Lady Dorie and said, “Do you still have the supper dance free?”
For a moment, he thought her smile tightened, but then the look was gone. “Of course. I would be delighted.” He breathed a sigh of relief. He’d known for years that dancing was helpful in getting to know a lady. The bad part was the hours between now and then.
“My lady,” Lord Bottomley said, “Do you have a set free for me?”
She was driving with the man, and he hadn’t asked her until now? What a slow-top.
“I do not, my lord.” She looked pointedly at the other ladies. “But my friends might.”
Alex almost burst out laughing at the look on the other man’s face.
“Oh, yes. Right.” One by one he asked the ladies, and one by one they turned him down. That ought to teach him better manners.
Bowing, Alex said, “Ladies, I look forward to seeing you this evening.”
Smiling they bid him adieu, and he left feeling as if he had made a good impression on Lady Dorie.
* * * *
Alex took his horse back to the stables, entered the house from the garden, and strolled into his bedchamber.
“My lord.” His valet closed one of the dresser drawers. “I hesitate to mention it, but you must visit a tailor soon.”
“That bad, is it?”
“I am afraid so, my lord. I can order shirts and cravats, but you must refurbish your wardrobe. I have taken the liberty of making a list of items.”
“There is no time like the present, I suppose.” Alex took the paper from the man. “I’ll pop around to Weston’s.”
Once Alex had changed, he left for the tailor’s shop. By the time he’d had his measurements taken and selected fabrics, he didn’t arrive home until it was time to change for dinner. Still, today had been a good day, and he would stand up with Lady Dorie this evening. Finally his life seemed to be taking form.
CHAPTER EIGHT
By the time Lord Exeter rode off, Dorie was very pleased with how the introduction with Lady Letitia had gone. She had seemed interested, indeed. With any luck, he was attracted to her as well. Perhaps a mutual liking would overcome any differences in their personalities. Dorie would know more this evening after Lady Letitia and Lord Exeter had danced together.
Adeline glanced at Letitia. “Lord Exeter is very handsome.”
“Oh, he is.” Georgie’s sigh was a little theatrical.
“Yes, he is good-looking.” Letitia nodded. “His manners are certainly agreeable.”
“I would not be at all surprised that he dances well,” Henrietta added.
Augusta came by in her elegant blue phaeton with Lord Phineas and stopped to chat for several minutes.
Lord Bottomley wished to move on and by the time they had gone around the circle, it was time to return home.
Henrietta and Adeline were in the middle of Grosvenor Square when his lordship drew up to Dorie’s house. Once she had said farewell, she joined her friends. “Do you think Letitia is interested in Exeter?”
“Beyond his pleasing manners?” Adeline asked.
“It is hard to tell with her,” Henrietta said.
“That’s true. She is very reserved.” Dorie supposed that came of not expecting a love match. Lady Letitia would look more at good manners, breeding, bearing, and wealth.
Wrinkling her nose, Adeline said, “Do you really think she would be a good match for him? He seems to be much friendlier than she is.”
That was something Dorie had not considered. She supposed that even in a marriage of convenience the couple must be compatible. She would not wish a lifetime of misery on anyone. But if not Letitia, then who? Emily Chatham was in her first Season. And even though she was the granddaughter of an earl, her father’s estate was not large. Dorie saw two ladies strolling past the square, Miss Pamela Mannering and Lady Marah Grant. It was a shame she had not seen them in the Park. Both ladies were suitable. “We shall see what happens this evening.”
“Come, Adeline,” Henrietta said. “I shall have one of our footmen accompany you home.”
“Thank you.” Adeline glanced around as if she did not understand how she got there. “I was not paying any attention at all.”
Dorie laughed. “If you are not careful, you will become as absentminded as Augusta can be.”
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“Not like Augusta,” Adeline protested. “She would never be engrossed in a conversation about matchmaking.”
“Well, that’s true,” Dorie admitted. “But give her an old tome in some obscure language, and you could take her anywhere and she would not notice.”
Caro and Huntley were accompanying Dorie and her family to Lady Elliott’s ball and joined them for dinner that evening. When Dorie entered the drawing room, her sister-in-law came over. “I spoke with Anna and she is happy to have Penelope come for tea the day after tomorrow. I take it you will accompany her.”
Dorie had not thought about that aspect of the meeting. She would mention it to Lord Exeter this evening, but she did not think he would have an objection. “Yes. What time does she want us there?”
“Three o’clock. I shall join you.” Caro cocked her head. “Perhaps it would be better if I fetch you and Penelope in my town coach.”
That would make the meeting more comfortable. Although Dorie knew Anna, she was actually Caro’s friend. “Perfect. I hope the girls get along together.”
“I hope so as well.” Caro crossed her fingers. “For both of their sakes.”
Papa approached with a glass of sherry and handed it to Dorie. “Will you stand up with Exeter this evening?”
She had not been prepared for that question. “Yes, he has asked for the supper dance. However, I introduced him to Lady Letitia. I hope something will come of it.”
Her father’s bushy eye brows drew together. “Are you not interested in the man?”