“Do you have any news of Max or the squire, my lady? I have not heard from him since I arrived in Town. Of course, it has not been very long, but in some ways it feels much longer.” Beth’s tone was wistful, causing the older lady’s watchful eyes to sharpen intelligently as they focused on her intently.
“I haven’t heard from them just lately, but I understand Maxwell is to come up for a few weeks soon. If I hear any news, I shall be sure to let you know.” Lady Amelia resolved to summon her grandson at the earliest opportunity.
Comforted by that promise, Beth moved on to meet some of the other guests present and sip tea from the delicately beautiful cups their hostess was serving.
Jenny and Beth had just found two chairs comfortably placed together and were gracefully arranging their skirts and accepting the proffered dainty treats from a tray being passed by a liveried servant when Beth was surprised by a look of dismay flitting across her friend’s expressive face before she carefully schooled her features. Curious as to the cause of such a reaction, Beth discretely glanced around. The only thing that had changed was that Lady Maria, Viscountess of Drysdale, had entered the room and appeared to be striking a lively conversation with Lady Rogers. Beth was somewhat familiar with both women since they had met in the dressmaker’s shop a few days previously. From the sound of their conversation, things could get very interesting, but Beth was still baffled as to why it should dismay the usually easy going Lady Geneva.
Lady Geneva, meanwhile, was frantically trying to come up with a socially acceptable way of extricating herself and Beth from this awkward situation. This was exactly the sort of thing Justin had wanted her to steer Beth away from while she found her place amongst the ton. With a sigh, though, she realized there was no way around it, she would have to trust that Beth’s proper upbringing would stand her in good stead if the conversation got out of hand. Nonetheless she caught her hostess’ eye and gave her a significant look drawing that lady to approach.
“Do you have everything you need, Lady Geneva,” asked Madame Perrault in low tones with other unasked questions underlying the polite inquiry.
Jenny cast a speaking glance toward the political argument well underway on the other side of the room. She was hoping to enlist their hostess’ aid in diverting the growing debate.
“Oh, my lady, you worry overmuch. Everyone is involved in politics these days, you know. I thought having those two together would make it ever so interesting for us all. And so informative,” Madame declared decisively before moving away to see to other guests. She did not much care if the viscountess didn’t want to witness a lively discussion. That was just stuffy in her opinion.
Jenny turned back to see how Beth was taking things or if she was even aware of the undercurrents in the room. She couldn’t help smiling as she took in the young woman’s wide, curious eyes and avid expression as she paid rapt attention to the lively argument. At least her chin wasn’t hanging down, Jenny thought a tad waspishly, as she debated the wisdom of attempting a distraction, wondering if it would instead cause a scene. Looking around, she saw that some of the ladies were casting speculative glances their way, and Jenny really began to worry, needlessly as it quickly turned out.
Not fully understanding the discussion but surprisingly energized by the deep convictions of both ladies, Beth finally managed to drag her attention away from the fascinating debate before her and glanced around at the other ladies present. To her surprise, she realized that most other conversations had ceased and some of her fellow guests were openly watching her for a reaction. Beth instantly realized that it didn’t really have anything to do with her as a person but rather her new position as the Countess of Westfield. Filing away a determination to ask her husband about this later, and grateful for her quick mind, Beth made an effort to change her expression to one of mild interest as she turned to the lady closest to her and initiated an innocuous conversation about that lady’s lovely frock and which dressmaker she frequents.
Impressed by her handling of the situation, Lady Geneva quickly followed her lead and turned to the young miss seated across from her and asked her about her enjoyment of the Season thus far. Realizing there wasn’t going to be any deliciously scandalous scenes to enliven the afternoon, conversations around them quickly returned to normal.
Despite the strange happening, Beth greatly enjoyed her afternoon at Madame Perrault’s. She had never had occasion to make many friends and had no experience being in company with so many other women. She found the experience to be highly enjoyable and ended up being one of the last guests to leave. Finally, Lady Geneva was able to pry her away and usher her back home. With a sigh of contentment, Beth thanked her new friends for the lovely afternoon.
Justin, Lord Fulton, was surprised to find his wife had yet to return. He had begun to expect her presence when he entered his home. She always seemed to be near when he was done pulling off his gloves and hat, anxious to ask him how his day had been. While she always seemed to be a little nervous, he was happy to see that was lessening as the days passed, and he was really starting to look forward to those few minutes after he returned to his house sharing with her an often edited version of his day. So, it was actually disappointment he was feeling when Potts informed him that the lady was not in.
Just then, though, she breezed in the front door, gracefully shedding her wrap for the waiting footman to catch and smiling happily as she spotted Justin standing in the foyer.
“Oh, my lord, what a lovely time I have had this afternoon!” she declared before wondering if it were impolite not to ask first about his day. After a brief pause and a blink of her long eyelashes she asked, “How was your day, my lord?”
Justin chuckled. “Not terribly diverting. Never mind about my day, tell me about yours.” He had not seen her in this frame of mind before and wanted to enjoy it. She rarely had any stories to share with him, and he often had trouble getting her to express herself at all, so he was anxious to hear what she might have to say.
“Well, first of all, Jenny was right, Madame Perrault’s cook does do divine things with cake and tea. But that was actually quite beside the point.” She then went on to describe in vivid detail the beautiful elegance of the house and the other guests. She then paused briefly while furrowing her brow.
“My lord,” she began hesitantly while Justin wondered if he should again correct her, reminding her to call him by his name rather than his title. He quickly thought better of it, waiting for her to ask whatever was obviously worrying her mind.
“My lord,” she began again, “how do we feel about the Canada Act?”
Justin was taken aback. He was gratified by her use of the term “we” but was also quite surprised by the question. Unsure why she would ask such a question he posed one of his own. “Why do you ask, my dear?”
Beth thought for a moment then explained herself. “The other evening, while listening to you and your secretary discussing your various business interests, I realized that you are involved in many different things, including international trade. And your sister mentioned that you are heavily involved in politics. As well, the other day at the dressmaker’s shop, someone asked me where you stand on the East India Company’s situation. I must admit, I had no idea what she was talking about, but it did make me realize that it might matter to some people how we feel on various matters of a political nature. I have managed thus far not to become engaged in any in depth conversations on any matters of national importance,” she continued with a light laugh, “but I would think it behooves me to become better informed on such things. Too, I would appreciate it if you could tell me if there are any matters on which I should have strong feelings, as the Countess of Westfield.”
Justin was delighted by her possessiveness of her title and the interest she was showing in his career, but before launching into a lengthy explanation, he waited to see if she had anything else to say. His patience was rewarded as she continued speaking.
“This afternoon, at t
his gathering I attended with Lady Geneva, two ladies got into a rather heated discussion about the various merits of the proposed Canada Act. It was all rather fascinating until I realized that many of the other ladies were taking too keen an interest in my reaction. Unsure of the best course, I decided to deflect attention from myself by striking a conversation with someone else, so sadly, I did not get to hear the rest of their spirited debate. Do you think that was the best course of action, my lord?”
Impressed by her insightful handling of the situation, Justin was quick to compliment her. “Yes, my lady, that was quick thinking on your part. It is usually best not to reveal how you really feel on a matter until you have all the facts, particularly when it is really nobody’s business how you feel on anything. Well, except mine, of course,” he concluded with another low chuckle.
Beth blushed slightly, but persisted. “Yes, but my lord, I really don’t know much about it, thus my question, how do we feel about Canada having a constitution? The ladies’ debate, at least what I managed to hear about it, was rather confusing. It seems Lady Rogers is quite definite in thinking it is a marvellous idea for the colonies to have their own constitution and a certain degree of autonomy, provided of course, that they continue to send some taxes back to support the kingdom. Lady Maria, on the other hand, seemed somewhat divided in how she felt on the matter, often contradicting herself. But it seems that she is worried that once the colonies have some measure of self-governance it is only a matter of time before they would want complete independence, much like America has demanded. I can see why she would think this, but really, wouldn’t you say that aside from the few French colonists and the natives, most of those who inhabit Canada are the loyalists who fled there during America’s war with us? It seems to me that they are powerfully connected to their home country and would not want to sever all ties. Granting them this constitution they are requesting sounds like it would simplify matters for the government here, since it must be difficult to govern over people who live on the other side of the ocean.”
“Well, my dear, you really seem to have an impressive grasp of the situation despite only hearing part of the conversation.” Justin was impressed with her reasoning and meant to tell her so but she quickly broke in.
“Oh, I asked Lady Geneva a few questions on the way home. She seemed strangely uncomfortable answering my questions, but she did provide me with some information. It was all rather strange and fascinating, but I was thinking that if you are heavily involved in these things you should be the one giving me my information. As your wife, I should probably share your opinions as much as possible, or at least confine my arguments to you,” she concluded with a slightly nervous giggle.
“I would rather not argue with you, but I would be happy to discuss my political career with you whenever you’d like. Actually, on this particular matter, you seem to have a similar opinion as me. It seems like it will be going through since both Houses have managed to argue out sufficient details to agree. And you made a very astute observation about Lady Maria. She is probably confused on the matter. Her husband, Lord Drysdale, sits in the House of Lords and supports retaining all power over the colonies, not wanting to grant any concessions there, but her brother sits in the House of Commons and is in complete agreement with the colonists having a degree of self-governance. Lady Maria is torn between her two loves since both men feel very fierce on the subject. She likes to think herself an expert on all matters of politics, and I have heard she often tries to curry influence on behalf of her men through the wives of other politicians. It would be wise of you to be on your guard if you are going to be much in her presence.”
Beth regarded him steadily for a moment as she mulled over what he had just said and contrasting it with her own impressions of the women she had met. Then she confided, “Your sister actually thought she would be a good friend for me to cultivate.”
Justin sighed realizing how very different his sister was from himself. “I have no idea what goes through my sister’s head sometimes. Far be it from me to dictate who you should make friends with. I don’t even mind Lady Maria over much. She usually doesn’t mean any harm. I was merely trying to point out to you that she at times has an agenda you may not be aware of when you are dealing with her.”
“Thank you for pointing that out. It might be best if we periodically discuss these sorts of things so I may keep you abreast of what is being said, so you could steer me in the right direction. Until I have fully formed opinions of my own, I would much rather be under your influence than anyone else’s,” was Beth’s final conclusion.
Justin whole-heartedly agreed. He was delighted at the prospect of having her on his side and was just beginning to realize what an asset it would be to have her gathering information from the female side of things. Having a wife was going to prove to be a greater advantage than he had even realized.
Beth, feeling flustered by her husband’s warming gaze and feeling as though she had taken up too much of his important time, quickly excused herself to go prepare for the evening meal. Once again, her husband had plans for the evening that did not include her, and she wanted to look her best for the little time they would have together before he went out.
Justin watched her leave the room, his feelings very mixed. He was delighted by how perceptive she seemed to be and the fact that she was seeking his thoughts on matters. But her obvious continuing discomfort in his presence was becoming a source of frustration. He had no desire to force his presence upon her, but he sincerely hoped they would soon be able to develop a closer relationship. He was finding it increasingly difficult to avoid his valet’s questioning gaze when he found him sleeping in his dressing room.
Of course, a good part of the situation could be laid at his own door, the earl acknowledged with a deep sigh. If he were not so confoundedly tied up with a couple of important governmental matters just at the moment, he would be able to devote more time to his wife. Coming home every evening after the lady was already asleep did not lend itself to spending any time together. But he could not leave these matters to ones such as Cranfield or Drysdale. Where would they end up if he did?
He promised himself he would allow the status quo for a short while longer and hope that their closeness would be able to grow naturally with time. Perhaps once Beth grew more accustomed to London life she would be more receptive to his presence. Shaking his head with mounting consternation, he turned toward his library and the pile of work awaiting him to finish before he dined with his wife.
Chapter Thirteen
Over the next few days Beth accompanied Jenny to the various functions and gatherings they had agreed to attend together. Beth was slowly gaining confidence as she made new friends and reinforced already made acquaintances. She began to feel a degree of comfort in her role as countess and no longer worried that she would bring shame upon her husband as she ventured into Society. The only sources of discomfort were her sister-in-law’s frequent, awkward appearances, and her nervous efforts to please her husband. Despite that comfortable conversation they had enjoyed discussing the politics of the day after Madame Perrault’s tea, Beth still felt tongue tied and decidedly gauche whenever she was in his company.
The night of the ball to be hosted by the Viscountess of Cumberland, had finally arrived. It was to be the first official gathering that the new Countess of Westfield was to attend with her husband, and Beth’s nerves were roiling. She could barely swallow down any food all day and was nervous and jumpy as Sally helped her get dressed and styled for the evening’s festivities. Beth and Sally had had such fun oohing over the ball gowns that had been delivered over the past couple of days from Celeste’s skilled hands, and with effort they had made the difficult decision of which would be right for her to wear to her first big event.
Beth was so relieved that all the decisions had been made beforehand because she truly felt as though her brain had turned to mush that day. She was terribly tempted to beg off from attending but she refused t
o accept that she was such a coward. And in a way, this was her official come out. She never had a debut as a young lady, but this was her debut as a countess and she wasn’t about to miss it.
The afternoon spent applying beauty concoctions, cleansing, and primping had paid off and the girls complimented themselves as they gazed at Beth’s reflection. Sally was quite pleased with her skills as she viewed her mistress’ flawless beauty. There was just one thing missing – jewels. Just as Sally was wondering what was to be done about milady’s empty neckline, the earl knocked at the door and entered.
With a low whistle, Justin took in the near perfection of his bride. It was hard for him to believe this dainty-looking female shimmering before him was actually his wife. “You look exquisite, my dear. There is only one thing missing. I have been remiss in filling your jewellery box, and I have the perfect thing right here to complement that lovely ensemble you are wearing.”
As he spoke, he opened a bag and let spill the most dazzling diamond necklace and earrings Beth had ever laid eyes on. The cut and style of the adornments were perfect for her size and stature and would be shown to perfection with many of her new garments. The deceptive simplicity of the jewellery was absolutely perfect for the young countess.
Beth gazed in awe at the sparkling stones her husband held out to her. She felt inadequate to be entrusted with such valuables and was nervous about wearing them. She said as much to Justin. His response was characteristically proud as he fastened the jewels around her neck and to her ears.
“Nonsense, my dear, you need not fear anything while I am with you. Besides, I know many of the ladies will be wearing far more ostentatious jewels than these. You will be far from the first target in anyone’s eyes. Now, shall we go?” With those words, Justin held out his arm for his wife to place her hand formally upon and he escorted her down to their waiting carriage.
The Debutante Bride: A Sweet Regency Romance (Ladies of Mayfair) Page 12