Emma politely asked, “Are you a gardener Edward? We saw a lovely maze upon our arrival. Are you responsible for that?”
Edward preened at the praise and answered, “All of the gardens were designed by myself. I gather my ideas from books and make detailed plans for the gardeners to fulfill. A gentleman never dirties his hands. He delegates all such work. I am very proud of my gardens and the maze is my pride and joy. Many young ladies have been kissed among the hedges. “Edward smiled and inclined his head toward Charlotte.
Charlotte looked down at her feet. She found it difficult to look in Edward’s eyes. He sounded quite forward and she felt overwhelmed. In an effort to change the subject, Uncle Charles asked, “What other books do you read? Is there an author that you particularly like? Charlotte adores novels. Perhaps you could recommend one.”
Edward’s distaste showed on his face. He stiffly replied, “I do not read novels. I find them to be a waste of my time. They are full of drivel. Love stories and mysteries are a young lady’s realm. Husbands and wives need to concern themselves with books that teach. I read about gardens and swords to better my life. Fantasy is for children.”
Charlotte was quiet on the carriage ride to her uncle’s estate. She found her mind whirling from the odd impression she had of Edward. He seemed to be obsessed with swords and gardening. Charlotte thought him to be rather silly and unbelievably odd. All those fantastic books were going to waste. How could he not wish to dive into each and every one? She would read them all, even the horrible ones on swords and gardening. How could a marriage between Edward and herself work? She wanted to read, sketch, run a household, and raise children who appreciated a good fantasy. Edward wanted a wife who worshipped his swordsmanship, attended all the boring exhibitions, and raised children to disdain fairytales.
Charlotte laid in her bed that night and prayed for an answer. She shed a few tears, then took a deep breath and decided to look for the good things. Edward had a lovely home with a magnificent library. There would surely be times when Edward would be too busy to notice her in the library devouring the novels. The garden was beautiful and perfect for entertaining. Charlotte smiled as a wicked thought entered her mind. She could hide in the maze and read or sketch, pretending she had become lost. If she had to attend the awful sword exhibitions, perhaps Edward would allow her to sketch the bouts. She hoped that by the time children arrived Edward would have mellowed and allow them to enjoy all the stories Charlotte remembered from her childhood. There were many about pirates with swords that Edward surely could not find fault with. He was an attractive man and she could be proud to call him her husband. He also seemed to find her attractive. Charlotte hoped her mother was right and she could eventually wrap Edward around her finger. She desperately wanted to return to Wales. Tomorrow she would write a letter to Ira. Her friend would understand. She missed her home, the green fields, the clean air, and most of all the window seat where she read about strange lands and then sketched them to hang upon her walls.
Chapter 4
Charlotte sat at the small writing desk in the drawing room. She was trying to pen a letter to Ira. She had already described the carriage ride to London and her uncle’s beautiful home. Charlotte had even written about Edward’s fantastic library. The right words failed her when it became time to tell Ira all about her first impressions of London and Edward. She found herself scratching out line after line of words. Everything she wrote was negative and made her sound like a petulant, ungrateful child. London continued to be dreary, wet, and gray. Where were the theatres and balls? She supposed Edward hated those too. Charlotte decided to state the facts and leave out her feelings about London and Edward. She told Ira of the tall buildings, wooden sidewalks, gardens with mazes and streams, and the terrible smell that permeated the city. She spoke of Edward’s handsomeness, his lovely home, his extensive garden, and his love of swords. She was sure to send Edward’s regards to Ira’s brother in the Royal Navy. Charlotte explained that Edward envied the fact that he could use a sword for battle not just sport. When she ran out of ways to sound happy, Charlotte folded and sealed the letter. She gave it to the butler for posting and went to get dressed for luncheon.
Charlotte was required to have her luncheon with the Roberts family. She deeply dreaded it. If all of the family shared Edward’s interests in swords and gardening she feared losing her mind. Charlotte dressed carefully in a pink day dress that brought out her rosy cheeks. Her hair was pinned atop her head with curled tendrils left to soften her face. She gave the appearance of a tiny spring flower. She hoped Edward and his family would approve. Charlotte’s mother and brother depended on her making this betrothal work. She stopped in the hallway where a portrait of her father as a young boy hung and said, “Papa, I’m trying to make you proud. I will do my best to take care of this family. Help me to be strong.”
Emma joined Charlotte in the hallway, blew a kiss to her late husband’s portrait, looked at how Charlotte was dressed, nodded her approval, and led the way to the carriage. The carriage had been sent by Edward and was a shiny black with the family crest upon the doors. Of course the crest included crossed swords! The interior was lush and comfortable. Lap robes were provided against the chill in the rainy weather.
Emma and Charlotte entered the hotel lobby in awe. Chandeliers hung from the high ceilings. Rugs covered the marble floors. Men in top hats, carrying canes and women in the latest fashion with the most outrageous hats wandered through the room. The concierge showed Emma and Charlotte into the hotel restaurant where Edward and his parents were waiting. Edward and his father stood as the women neared the table. They both had top hats sitting on the table and canes hung from the edge. Edward’s mother was wearing a hat that appeared to hold a bird’s nest, little bluebird included. Charlotte’s hopes sank. It was obvious that Edward took after his parents. She drew herself up, smiled and greeted each family member with grace.
Edward’s father pulled out her chair and spoke, “My dear, you are so tiny a strong wind could blow you away. Do not despair we will soon fatten you up and make you strong enough to swing a sword. “His laughter rang out across the room. Charlotte cringed. Her daintiness had always been an asset to be admired. She certainly had never desired to swing a sword.
Charlotte found herself staring at the little bluebird every time Edward’s mother spoke. It was better than listening to her go on forever about the gardens of London. No wonder Edward was so obsessed. He lived with these people. He had to join their ranks or go crazy.
A very handsome gentleman approached the table. He was tall and muscular, with dark wavy hair. Though he wore no top hat and carried no cane, it was obvious that he was an aristocrat. His simple black suit and waistcoat of emerald green accentuated his physique perfectly. His deep voice soothed Charlotte’s nerves as he asked, “May I join the party Edward? I would enjoy meeting your betrothed.”
Edward introduced the man as his cousin, Henry Roberts. Henry’s bright smile and the mischievous twinkle in his eyes made Charlotte instantly attracted to him. She knew deep in her heart that here was a man she could talk to. He would understand her and allow her to be herself. She wished her father had chosen Henry rather than Edward. Charlotte realized where her thoughts had led her and she blushed with shame. She lowered her head to hide her red cheeks. Henry’s rough hand gently touched her chin and raised her face to his as he said, “Do not hide such a lovely face. Such beauty is meant to be seen. You remind me of the tiny pink flowers that grow in untilled pastures. They appear delicate, but are strong enough to choke out the other weeds. I find wildflowers to be more lovely than any rose nurtured in a formal garden. Beautiful things should remain free to grow as they wish. “With those words, Henry won Charlotte’s heart.
Chapter 5
As the luncheon progressed, so did Charlotte’s feeling of guilt. The attraction she felt for Henry was something she feared she could never have for Edward.
The luncheon finally came to an end and Charlotte
breathed a sigh of relief. She would leave the hotel and find solace in her room. Her hopes were spoiled when Sir Roberts suggested that the young people walk through the hotel’s conservatory and then Edward and Henry could show Charlotte the sights of London. The rain had finally stopped.
Edward paid more attention to the plants in the conservatory than to Charlotte. He left Henry to entertain her. As they strolled, she took Henry’s arm. She could feel the muscles ripple under the fabric of his coat. Henry spied a single butterfly among the plants and quoted a famous poet. Charlotte was thrilled to discover that Henry read poetry. She finished the poem and Henry was suitably impressed. They were eventually able to pry Edward away from the plants and out into the busy streets of London.
With the sun shining, Charlotte found London to be much more appealing. The architecture of the buildings was astonishing. Henry proved to be a fountain of information about each style. He was clearly an intellectual. Edward remained quiet. Charlotte decided he must be bored. The group passed a bookstore and Edward finally showed some enthusiasm. In the window was a large book involving ancient swords. He grabbed Charlotte’s hand and pulled her inside. Henry followed with a smirk on his face. Edward began a conversation with the store proprietor, so Charlotte and Henry wandered through the store. Charlotte discovered a book by her favorite author that she had yet to read. Henry shocked her by taking the book and reading the prologue aloud in his soothing tones. Charlotte was mesmerized, especially when he admitted to having already read the book. She had found a kindred soul. The connection she felt with Henry was growing by leaps and bounds. Edward sneered when he saw the book in Henry’s hands, “I had forgotten that you enjoyed such drivel. Mayhap you would be better served among a sewing circle instead of smoking cigars in the clubs with real men. “Charlotte started to open her mouth and defend Henry, but he squeezed her arm in a signal to let things be.
Henry too ignored the rude comment, choosing to take the high road. He calmly asked, “Did you have an interesting conversation with the store proprietor cousin? Will you be buying yet another book on swords? Perhaps you would also like to search for a new gardening book. I heard that there was an interesting trend called terraced gardens. It sounded like something you might want to add to the property.”
Edward pretended not to hear Henry and yet he turned to Charlotte and asked, “Would you mind if I took a few moments to ask about a book on terraced gardening? I promise to buy you an ice after I am done. You will love it. It is London’s newest treat. “He walked away without waiting for an answer.
Charlotte raised her eyebrows in question as she turned to Henry, “I find that Edward can be quite rude at times. I am not sure he realizes he is acting like a cad. He and the entire family seem to be exceptionally unkind to you. Might I inquire as to the reason?”
Henry explained, “I chose a profession over a life of leisure. The family looks upon it as uncouth. Money should breed more money. Actual work is frowned on. When I was much younger I became a Navy man. It was my calling. The family saw it as beneath our station. I saw it as a way to honor my country.”
“I am confused, “stated Charlotte. “When I mentioned the brother of my friend being in the Royal Navy, Edward acted enthusiastic about it. He implied that he had wanted to join, but that duty to his family kept him from it.”
“I have no doubt that Edward admires the Navy’s actual use of a sword, however his duty to the family was actually a fear of getting his hands dirty with blood. He can not allow others to know of his disdain for the Navy. It could be considered treason. Thus, he always quotes his sorrow for not being allowed to join due to his duties, “Henry further explained.
Charlotte patted his arm and replied, “I find it to be an honorable profession. Your family should be very proud of you. I know I am. I wish my father had met you. He would have liked you immensely. The pair of you might have talked for hours about your experiences. He would have many questions about the places you have traveled to. I must confess an interest in hearing about them myself. I should love to sketch the places you describe.”
Henry asked, “You have a talent for sketching? I think I would enjoy seeing your drawings. It is a talent few possess. I, alas, can not draw at all. Even my signature is unreadable.”
Edward returned with an armful of books. He was ready to go for an ice. The trio returned to the bustle of the sidewalk. Henry plowed through the crowds protecting Charlotte from being knocked onto the muddy street. It felt as if the entire population had descended upon the sidewalks as soon as the rain stopped. The group found a small table and enjoyed their ices as they watched people stream passed . Charlotte was surprised to see the poor walking alongside the aristocracy. Henry pointed out a small boy caught with his hand in a gentleman’s pocket. The boy was shoved to the ground and threatened with the man’s cane. Henry called the boy to his side and gave him a handful of coins. Edward admonished, “You should not encourage such unlawful acts. He will grow to be a highwayman if he is not stopped.”
Henry answered, “The boy is hungry and so is his mother. Look there, on the corner. He used the money for bread and has taken it to share with his mother and the babe she holds. Kindness can change many things. Possibly in the future the boy will be more willing to work for his money if he receives enough kindness. The circumstances of one’s birth is not a choice. Thanks to God’s grace we were not born in his shoes.”
Chapter 6
Once again, Charlotte sat at the writing desk. This time the words flowed from her quill. She told Ira about meeting the dashing Henry. She wrote of his handsomeness as well as his intelligence. Charlotte allowed herself to praise his kindness to the small pickpocket. She exclaimed over how he had quoted poetry and that he read much of the same material as she. Her excitement came through on the pages of her letter. It would be clear to Ira that Charlotte much prefered Henry over Edward. She felt quite guilty over that. However, her enthusiasm was not dampened as she continued to praise Henry.
Uncle Charles sent a servant to bring Charlotte to his office. He wanted to pursue the topic of her betrothal. Charlotte was tentative about her comments at first, but as her uncle bragged on the cleverness of the union, she became more vocal. “Uncle, I want out of the betrothal. I have nothing in common with Edward. I find him to be quite silly and a little strange. He expects me to join him for every exhibition of his swordsmanship, praise his every move, and read only of swords and gardens. I shall perish in such an environment.”
Uncle Charles rubbed his chin and said, “I doubt that he is as bad as all that. He is considered to be an excellent catch for any young woman.”
Charlotte protested, “He would not be for me. I need to feel free to be myself. To read what I enjoy, rather than be commanded to read what he likes. He demands that I follow his every move, leaving the servants to care for the household. Work is quite foreign to him. He prefers to follow a pursuit of entertainment. Though how he can define clashing swords or watching others work in the garden as fun, I can not fathom. Please, help me find a way out of this.”
Her uncle frowned, “I am so sorry that you find Edward less than desirable. However, your father committed you to this betrothal in order to assure his entire family would be cared for. You were not his only concern. He asked that I carry out his wishes and I am trying to follow through. You must think of your mother and brother before you make the mistake of breaking this betrothal. They are counting on you to provide them with a future.”
Charlotte sat on a stone bench in her uncle’s garden. She was gathering her thoughts. If she was going to be forced to marry Edward then compromises needed to be made. She wanted to live in Wales near the friends and family she loved. She would need their support in order to endure a life with Edward. He needed to allow her to pursue her own interests as he followed his own heart. Charlotte was startled as she heard footsteps approaching. She looked up to spy her nemesis walking toward her bench. She guessed that now was as good a time as any to spe
ak to Edward. As he sat down on the bench, Charlotte approached the subject, “Edward, I was just thinking of you. I wanted to have a serious talk.”
Edward shook his head and exclaimed, “Do not worry your mind over serious matters. Leave all such things to me. I will be the master of the house.”
Charlotte held back a retort and politely replied, “I will gladly leave business matters in your capable hands. This talk concerns my wants and needs. I feel that we do not share many pursuits in common. In order for this marriage to be a happy one for us both, we need to discuss compromises. Will you at least listen for a minute.”
Edward huffed and said, “I will humor you for a few minutes. The beauty of this garden and your shining eyes soothe me enough to listen.”
Charlotte took a long breath and continued, “I wish to live near my family in Wales. It is a beautiful place. I ask only that you visit my family estate and judge it’s perfection for yourself. I also feel the need to be allowed to read what I wish and sketch in my free time. I need these pursuits as strongly as you need swordsmanship and gardening.”
Edward sighed and answered, “I know that I have appeared uncaring for your likes and hobbies. I admit to being quite opinionated. I assure you that in our home you can read whatever you like. Do not expect me to discuss the drivel with you though and do not bring such things up in front of company. I do consider sketching to be a womanly attribute, so you may pursue it. As to Wales, I do not think so. I have a life here in London. My exhibitions and my gardens are here.”
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