A Country Miss in Hanover Square
A Country Miss in Hanover Square
Anne Herries
Lord Pendleton’s Society Wife In her first season in London, country girl Susannah Hampton is confused by the attentions of the dashing Lord Pendleton. Wealthy, but undeniably arrogant, he is certainly not the kind of husband she had in mind. Although she can’t help but find him attractive.Soon Susannah gets what she hopes for – a marriage proposal! She may be an innocent country miss, but now Susannah is determined to inflame her husband’s passion – and melt the ice around his heart…Debutantes enjoy the delights of A Season in Town
Susannah could not help wishingthat she and Harry might havehad a little time together before allhis relatives arrived.
She was trying to accustom herself to the idea that she was engaged to a man she loved—a man she was not sure felt quite the same about her. She knew that Harry felt something for her, but most marriages were arranged for reasons other than love, and she could not yet be certain that she was loved as she would wish to be—to distraction.
Anne Herries, winner of the Romantic Novelists’ Association ROMANCE PRIZE 2004, lives in Cambridgeshire. She is fond of watching wildlife, and spoils the birds and squirrels that are frequent visitors to her garden. Anne loves to write about the beauty of nature, and sometimes puts a little into her books, although they are mostly about love and romance. She writes for her own enjoyment, and to give pleasure to her readers.
Recent novels by the same author:
A DAMNABLE ROGUE*
MARIANNE AND THE MARQUIS
MARRIED BY CHRISTMAS
MARRYING CAPTAIN JACK
THE UNKNOWN HEIR
THE HOMELESS HEIRESS
THE RAKE’S REBELLIOUS LADY
*Winner of the Romantic Novelists’ AssociationROMANCE PRIZE
and in the Regency seriesThe Steepwood Scandal:
LORD RAVENSDEN’S MARRIAGE
COUNTERFEIT EARL
and in The Hellfire Mysteries :
AN IMPROPER COMPANION
A WEALTHY WIDOW
A WORTHY GENTLEMAN
Author Note
Writing for Harlequin Mills & Boon is a constant joy. A Season in Town, Book One, is about Susannah and Lord Pendleton. Susannah never expected to have a season, because her mama could not afford it. However, Amelia Royston has inherited a fortune, and she wants to spend some of it on young women in less happy circumstances than herself. Susannah is flattered by the attentions of the dashing Lord Pendleton, but overawed by the prospect of becoming the wife of such an important man.
Beneath the story runs a thread of intrigue that continues throughout all three books in this trilogy and may threaten Amelia herself. Look out for Harry and his friends in the next two.
A COUNTRY MISS IN
HANOVER SQUARE
Anne Herries
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
This book is dedicated to
the memory of my mother, who once told me
my books would be enjoyed by hundreds of thousands
of people worldwide.
I laughed, Mum, but you were right!
Prologue
The Spanish Peninsula—1812
Three men lay slumped on the earth, which had been baked hard by the fierce Spanish sun. Harry Pendleton had his back against a rock. Of the three he was in the best shape. Max Coleridge was lying with his eyes closed, his blood-soaked shirt stuck to his chest in this damned awful heat. Gerard Ravenshead was fanning Max with a large leaf, trying to keep the flies from settling on his wound. A neckcloth was wound around a deep cut at the side of Gerard’s head.
‘I thought we were done for,’ Harry said. He was speaking his thoughts aloud, saying what they all felt. ‘What a mess!’
‘You can’t blame yourself for it, Harry,’ Gerard said and looked at him. ‘They knew we were coming. Someone must have warned them.’
‘Ten killed, and the three of us only got out by the skin of our teeth.’ Harry stood up and walked over to take a look at Max. ‘Somehow they must have got wind that we planned a surprise raid to take prisoners…’
‘One of the servants,’ Gerard replied and shrugged. ‘In this damned war I’m never sure whether we are fighting the French with the Spanish or the Spanish and the French.’
‘I wouldn’t trust their generals as far as I could throw them,’ Harry growled. He looked at the blood trickling down Gerard’s face. They had wrapped a kerchief round his head, but it wasn’t doing much good. ‘Your wound is still bleeding. Do you want me to take another look at it?’
‘You saved my life once today,’ Gerard said and grinned at him. ‘You don’t have to nursemaid me, Harry. I’ll manage. We have to get Max back to the village, and by the looks of him that means carrying him between us.’
Harry pulled a wry face. ‘The way you’ve been behaving out here, I’ve sometimes felt as if you meant to throw your life away…’ Gerard had gained a reputation as something of a daredevil.
‘There were moments when I didn’t much care if I died,’ Gerard admitted. He took a swipe at a fly buzzing about his face. ‘But when you’re facing death things come into perspective. I intend to live and return home and one day….’
Gerard left the sentence unfinished. Harry nodded. He knew something had been eating at his friend. He suspected it was to do with a young woman Gerard had been courting—and the tiny scar at his temple that he’d noticed when they first met in Spain after a year of not seeing one another. Gerard often rubbed at it when he was thoughtful, and the look in his eyes told Harry he was remembering something that made him angry.
‘I know what you mean,’ Harry said. ‘Soldiering is blood, sweat and tears—and that is the easy part.’ It was listening to the screams of dying men and knowing you couldn’t save them that hurt the worst. ‘Come on, then. Help me get Max on my back and I’ll carry him.’
‘I can walk…’ Max mumbled. ‘Just give me a hand up….’
‘Don’t be a damned fool,’ Harry replied. ‘You’ll be carried as far as we can make it. When we get near the village, Gerard will fetch help.’
‘I could walk with help.’ Max’s face set stubbornly as he attempted to rise. ‘Damn you, Harry. I’m not a baby….’
‘But I’m the superior officer here, so you will do as you’re told,’ Harry muttered. He grinned at Gerard. ‘There’s one thing, we’re bound for life by this day’s experience. It’s something none of us will forget—and if any one of us can help the other in future, we will….’
Max grunted as they hauled him to his feet, and Harry took him over his shoulder. Gerard nodded, his eyes hard but appreciative of his friend’s stubborn determination to take on the burden. He wasn’t sure he could have done it himself, though he would have tried.
‘Comrades in war and peace,’ he said. ‘Let’s get back. My head is fit to burst and Max needs attention….’
Chapter One
England—1816
Harry Pendleton saw the girl run across the narrow country road seconds before he pulled on the reins, bringing his horses to an abrupt halt. Jangling harness, the sound of snorting horses and the curses of his groom took Harry’s attention for a moment as he fought to control the startled beasts. They were not used to being so roughly used! Harry cursed loudly. Another second and he would have knocked the girl down! His heart had been in his mouth for an instant—and it had done his horses little good to have their mouths sawed at in that way!
‘What on earth do you think you were doing?’ he thundered, tossing the reins to his groom and jumping down to confront her. He hardly noticed her pale face or trembling hands. ‘That was a damned stupid thing to do! I could have killed you!’
‘Had you not been driving so carelessly, it would not have happened,’ the girl retorted, eyes flashing. She tossed her long hair, giving him a look filled with contempt. ‘These country roads are not made for such haste, sir. I had no idea that you would suddenly come round that corner like a bat driven out of hell….’
‘You must have heard the sound of my wheels,’ Harry retorted, though he knew that she had some right on her side. ‘What on earth possessed you to dash across the road in that way?’
‘I saw some primroses I wanted,’ the girl replied. ‘This is a quiet road, sir. No one ever drives the way you were driving.’
‘Possibly because they are none of them able,’ Harry retorted. Even as he spoke he realised that he sounded petulant and arrogant, which was far from his nature. ‘You should be more careful when crossing the road near bends in the road, miss…’ Harry belatedly became aware that she was rather lovely. Her hair had been tossed by the wind and looked like spun gold, and her eyes were so clear that a man might drown in them. He found himself staring like an idiot. ‘Forgive me, I do not know your name.’
‘Nor shall you,’ the girl replied, giving him a haughty stare. ‘Sir, I find you arrogant and rude and I shall say good day to you.’
Stunned, Harry watched as she ran from him, scrambled over a stile at the side of the road and set off swiftly across the fields. He came to himself in that instant, realising that he had handled the situation badly.
‘I am sorry…’ he called after her. ‘I was anxious because I might have killed you. I did not mean to be so harsh.’
The girl did not falter or look back. Harry continued to watch her for a few moments, then he shook his head and climbed back to the driving box. His damnable temper had let him down. It was not often he lost it, but for some reason he had done so this morning. Instead of shouting at her, he should have made sure that she was none the worse for her fright. For a moment he was tempted to go after her, but he was in a hurry; he had promised to meet his friends at a mill held locally at a certain time and was already late. He frowned as he began to drive at a slightly more sedate pace. It was obvious the girl was unharmed, but he had not made the proper enquiries. He ought at least to have asked if she needed his assistance, though it was self-evident that she did not.
A little smile touched his mouth. She had answered him with spirit. Clearly she had not suffered an irritation of the nerves, as most of the young ladies in town might have, had they been subject to such a display of bad manners from a man who was generally considered to be one of the politest men in society. However, from the look of her clothes and the way she had been roaming the countryside without a hat or a companion, she was just a country girl—possibly the daughter of the local vicar. It was unlikely he would ever see her again, and, while he felt a certain regret, the incident was soon pushed to a distant corner of his mind.
Susannah stopped running when she was out of breath. What a bad-tempered man the driver of that phaeton had been! Had he been a little more considerate, a little caring in his manner, she would have apologised, for she knew herself to be partly at fault. However, he had come round the bend at such a pace that it was a wonder he had managed to stop at all. She was fortunate that she had not been trampled beneath his horses’ hooves. If she had not felt so startled, she might have admired the way he handled his horses, which were clearly high spirited. However, the way he had shouted at her had put all thought of apology from her mind.
Frowning, Susannah sat down on a fallen log to recover her composure before going home. As her nerves ceased tingling, she suddenly saw the amusing side of the affair and laughed. It had been quite an adventure, and she had often longed for something of the sort. However, in her dreams the gentleman would smile and speak softly, making her heart beat faster. Her heart had indeed slammed against her chest, but from fright rather than pleasure. Now that she had begun to feel calmer, she remembered that he had been rather handsome—if you liked arrogant, rude men! She tossed her head and put the incident from her mind as she approached the cottage they had taken after poor Papa died. She must hurry; she had been out a long time and her mama would be looking for her.
Susannah walked into the cottage, carrying a basket of herbs and wildflowers she had picked in the hedgerow. Her fine gold hair had blown all over the place and her cheeks were pink from the fresh air. She looked beautiful, if untidy, and not quite the proper young lady. Her looks were misleading—she had been taught her manners and was in truth a well-behaved girl, though spirited and inclined to be reckless at times. She took her precious finds into the large kitchen, setting them down on the scrubbed pine table. The smell of baking was everywhere, tantalising and tempting. She felt hungry, her mouth watering at the thought of such a treat. Her hand was reaching towards a plate of cakes that were still cooling when Maisie walked in. Maisie had once been her nurse, and now she kept house for Mrs Hampton, turning her hand to anything that needed doing, because they could no longer afford the luxury of servants.
‘Now then, Miss Susannah,’ the woman grumbled. ‘You leave them cakes alone. Your mama has the Vicar and some friends coming for tea this afternoon, and I’ve used the last of the butter. At least there’s none to spare for more baking.’
‘Can’t I have just one?’ Susannah pleaded, her stomach rumbling with hunger. ‘I haven’t eaten since first thing this morning.’
‘You should have been here for your luncheon instead of wandering about the countryside like a hoyden.’ Maisie looked at her with disapproval, which masked the deep affection between them. ‘Go and change your gown before anyone sees you. It will be time for tea in an hour or so. You can wait until then.’
‘I’m hungry now,’ Susannah said and snatched a warm and chewy oat biscuit, fleeing from the kitchen with Maisie’s scolding ringing in her ears.
She sighed as she went upstairs to change out of the old gown she had worn for her walk. She had managed to get grass stains on the hem again, and there was a small rent where she had caught it on some briars, so it was a good thing she had chosen this gown. It was important to conserve her best things for special occasions these days. They had just enough money to live on and pay Maisie her meagre wage, but Susannah had no idea what they would do when they needed new clothes.
Everything had changed after her father died, for he had lost his estate by making unwise investments and at the gaming tables. Mama had a little money of her own, which she had inherited from her father, but the income was scarcely enough to keep them.
‘I do not know what to do, Susannah,’ her mother had told her when they moved from their comfortable house to this modest cottage. It had seemed bare and poor compared to the comfortable house they had been forced to leave, but somehow they had managed to turn it into a home. ‘If I release what little capital I have, we could afford a Season in town for you, but then we should have nothing left.’
‘And if I did not take, you would have given up your living for nothing,’ Susannah said. She was a good-natured girl and had accepted their downfall into poverty with good grace. ‘No, Mama. We shall manage as best we can. Perhaps I shall meet someone—a prince!—who will love me for myself and carry me off to his castle. I shall have jewels and beautiful clothes, and you will never have to worry again.’ Her smile was unconsciously wistful.
Mrs Hampton shook her head sadly at her daughter’s flight of fancy. ‘You are very pretty, my darling, but things do not often happen that way. I dare say someone will offer for you, but he may not be to your liking.’
‘You are thinking of Squire Horton, I suppose.’ Susannah pulled a face, for the Squire was past forty, a generous kind gentleman, who had buried two wives and had a brood of boisterous children. She appreciated his qualities, but found him rather large and a little too dull for her quick mind.
She flicked her long, honey-coloured hair back out of her eyes. It was always escaping from its ribbons and curling in tendrils about her face. She presented a charming picture, for she was truly beautiful, but she seldom considered her looks, though she knew she was pretty because everyone told her so. However, it had not turned her head, and she was generally popular with both the gentlemen and the ladies she met. Unfortunately, situated as they were, she met very few gentlemen that either she or her mama considered a suitable match. ‘Well, if nothing else turns up, I may be forced to such a marriage, Mama—but it is not yet too late for something exciting to happen.’
Susannah lived in the expectation of something exciting happening. She would meet a handsome man, not necessarily a prince, of course, but rich enough to keep both her and Mama in comfort. He would sweep her up on his horse and ride off with her to Gretna Green, where they would be married and live happily ever after, preferably in an ancient castle. Failing that, perhaps a relative they had never heard of would leave them a fortune. Mama said they had no rich relatives, but perhaps there was someone somewhere who might be kind to them.
Her biscuit finished, Susannah applied her mind to the little tea party her mother had planned for friends. She changed her old gown for a favourite primrose-silk afternoon dress and brushed her hair into order, tying it back with white ribbons. A white stole draped over her arms and she was instantly transformed from the hoyden, who had been traipsing the fields to find herbs her mama might use to make lotions and seasonings, into a young lady of some considerable style and beauty.
Susannah had an English rose complexion and sea-green eyes, her mouth soft and attractive. It was the kind of mouth gentlemen found irresistible and wanted to kiss, but she had not yet been brought out into society and could not guess at what might happen if she were. She sighed as she looked at her reflection in the dressing mirror. It was true that she was not ill favoured. If only they could afford a Season in town without ruining Mama! Surely then she could make a good marriage and rescue her beloved mother from the genteel poverty in which they now lived. Susannah did not care so very much for herself that they lived in a tiny cottage, but Mama had found it hard.
With an effort she banished her dreams of romantic love and handsome gentlemen who would beg for her favours. Mama was right: these things did not often happen. She might have to marry one of the gentlemen who called on Mama with gifts of fruit and vegetables from their gardens and looked at Susannah slyly whenever they got the chance, but she would not if she could help it!
She was about to go downstairs to the parlour when her bedroom door opened abruptly and her mother swept in. Wearing a gown of grey silk, Mrs Hampton was still an attractive woman, her colouring much as her daughter’s, but she often had an air of sadness, which, her daughter noticed, seemed to have vanished for the moment. Susannah had not seen her mother this animated since Papa fell into a decline after losing all his money and died of a putrid infection some nine months earlier.
‘Mama! What has happened?’ Susannah’s heart raced with anticipation, for she sensed her mother’s excitement. ‘You have news.’
Mrs Hampton waved a sheet of quality vellum at her. ‘I have had a letter from Amelia Royston. You must remember that we met her once in Bath? She was visiting with her sister-in-law, Lady Royston. I felt so sorry for her having to live with that harpy. Her brother is a gentleman, of course, but I am not sure that I like him…’ Mrs Hampton looked pensive, for her friend had not said much about her circumstances, but she had sensed her deep unhappiness at the time. ‘Well, as you may recall, I asked her to a party and took her to a dance at the Assembly Rooms. She fell into a habit of visiting us every day, and we have kept in touch ever since through letters. I remember she was so grateful for my kindness…it was before Papa—’ She broke off with a little choke, the sadness back in her eyes. ‘Anyway, she went to live with an elderly aunt soon after that and everything has turned out most fortunately for her.’
‘Yes, I remember Miss Royston,’ Susannah said. ‘What does she say in her letter, Mama?’
‘It is like a miracle,’ Mrs Hampton said and the light came back to her face. ‘Amelia’s aunt—Lady Agatha Sawle, I met her once, but you did not know her—well, she has died and left Amelia a fortune. She did not expect it. Indeed, she had no idea that her aunt was so wealthy. She knew she was to have something, but she says she had no expectation of being left more than an independence.’
‘How wonderful for her,’ Susannah said, her lovely eyes sparkling. ‘You see, Mama, exciting things do happen. Perhaps someone will leave us something one day.’
‘Amelia is so generous,’ her mother said and dabbed at her eyes with a lace kerchief. The scent of her favourite lavender water wafted towards Susannah. ‘She has offered you a Season in town, dearest. She knows of Papa’s misfortune and she wants to help us. She will pay all our expenses and give you a dowry of five thousand pounds. Five thousand pounds, Susannah! Such a huge sum—and she makes it sound nothing! It means you have a chance of making a decent marriage, my love.’ Mrs Hampton was quite overcome. Her hand trembled as she touched Susannah’s arm. ‘I can hardly believe that anyone would do such a thing, for we are not even family. However, that may be—’ She broke off mid-sentence. ‘Do you realise what this means, dearest?’
‘A Season in town…’ Susannah stared at her, disbelief, excitement and triumph warring in her head. ‘Oh, Mama, how good Miss Royston is! But what made her think of us?’
Mrs Hampton shook her head. ‘I really cannot imagine why she thought of us. She said it was because I was kind to her at a time when she needed friends, but I think she has other reasons.’ Susannah lifted her brows in enquiry, but Mrs Hampton merely frowned, clearly preferring to keep her own counsel. ‘I cannot tell, but I think she may be lonely. Her family is not kind, though she never complains. However, one knows…’ She looked thoughtful. ‘To give us so much is extremely generous, Susannah. I know one should not take charity, and I should not normally do so, but it is just what I have prayed for, my love. You deserve your chance and, if we are lucky, we may be able to repay Amelia for her kindness one day. Think of it, my love. You will meet everyone—Amelia is well connected and highly thought of in society. If you are fortunate…who knows what might happen!’
Susannah nodded, her face thoughtful as she looked at her mother. Some of the euphoria faded as she realised that Mama was expecting her to make a brilliant marriage and solve all their problems. She would be happy if that happened, of course, but she could not easily relinquish all her dreams of romance. She wanted to oblige Mama, but she also wanted to be swept off her feet, to fall madly in love. For some reason the picture of the outraged gentleman who had almost run her down flashed into her mind, though she could not think why—he had been abominably rude!
However, her overwhelming feeling was one of pleasure at the thought of her Season in town. It was what she had longed for, hoped for these past months since Papa died. If she were fortunate she would fall in love with a suitable gentleman, one who made her heart beat much faster, but who was also acceptable to Mama. Someone who might look a little like the rude gentleman she had met in the lane, but who was far more romantic!
‘I do not understand why Miss Royston is being so very kind to us,’ Mrs Hampton was saying. ‘But I shall write at once and tell her we are delighted to accept her generous invitation. She has asked us to join her at her house near Huntingdon next week so that we may all get to know one another in comfort. Then we shall journey to London together. She is sending her own carriage to fetch us.’
‘That is very thoughtful of her,’ Susannah said. She frowned as something occurred to her. ‘What shall we do for clothes, Mama?’
‘That is all taken care of,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘Amelia says we must not worry about anything, for we may use her seamstress in town and send the bills to her!’
‘Mama! She will buy my clothes as well?’ Susannah looked at her mother in awe as she inclined her head, feeling overwhelmed. ‘She must be very rich. It is beyond all expectation.’
‘Yes, my dearest, I imagine she is very wealthy now, but she knows what it is to live on a small income, and to be treated ill by one’s relations. I think that is why she has taken it into her head to help us.’
Susannah nodded. Her mother’s friend was being extraordinarily kind to them. They could not have expected anything of the sort and it was a wonderful surprise. She could not wait for her adventure to begin! However, the next few days would fly by—she must get out all her clothes and see what could be done with them. Some of them could surely be refurbished with fresh ribbons. It would not do to impose on Miss Royston’s generosity more than was absolutely necessary!
She was smiling as she joined her mother’s tea party that afternoon, unconsciously practising her society manners. Soon now she would have the chance to shine in society drawing rooms—and who knew what might happen then! Dreams did come true sometimes, it seemed, for just an hour ago her hopes of a Season in town had been just that…
Susannah looked towards the house as a groom opened the carriage door and helped her down. It was a pleasant L-shaped country residence built of yellowish stone with an imposing front door and leaded windows. However, it was no larger than Papa’s house had been, modest by country-house standards, but the gardens were particularly beautiful and there were some graceful old trees. She thought that she would very much like to explore the garden at the earliest opportunity.
Susannah followed her mother into the front hall, smiling at a young maid who came to assist her. Mrs Hampton was speaking to a lady Susannah suspected must be Miss Royston’s housekeeper.
‘Miss Royston apologises for the delay in greeting you, Mrs Hampton,’ the woman said. ‘If you will allow me to take you upstairs to your rooms, she will be with you shortly. An unexpected visitor arrived just a few minutes ago…’
‘Yes, of course. It is no matter,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘Come along, Susannah.’
Susannah hesitated. ‘Mama—do you think I might take a little stroll in the gardens? I shall be only a few minutes, but they are rather lovely. Would Miss Royston mind, do you think?’ She threw an appealing look at the housekeeper.
‘Miss Royston is a keen gardener. She has taken great pride in them since she came to live here,’ the housekeeper said and smiled at her. ‘You take a little stroll, miss. Riding in a carriage is so confining. If you stay close to the house, I can call you when Miss Royston is ready to receive you.’
‘Very well, you may go,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘But do not go off on one of your long walks, for that would be very rude.’
‘No, Mama. I shall just wander as far as the rose arbour and back.’
Susannah went back towards the front door, which was opened for her by an obliging footman. She gave him a bright smile, feeling delighted to have a few moments of freedom before meeting her hostess.
When the carriage had stopped at the front of the house, she had caught sight of the rose garden. The bushes were well tended and growing lustily, though it was too early in the year for them to be at their best, of course. In another month or so this garden would be a riot of colour and she imagined the scent of roses would reach the house. Besides the roses there were wide beds of lavender, peonies and other perennial flowers. Miss Royston must spend a deal of her time in her garden; it was clearly well planned.
Susannah hesitated as she approached the rose arbour and heard a raised voice. The fencing had hidden the fact that there was anyone there; she was about to turn away when she heard her mother’s name.
‘Margaret Hampton is a good friend of mine. I made the offer, Michael. Nothing was asked of me, I assure you. I will not allow you to say such terrible things. Margaret and Susannah are not hangers-on. Nor will they take advantage of my good nature.’
‘You are a fool, Amelia,’ a man’s voice answered sharply. ‘Upon my word, I do not understand you! You refuse to make your home with Louisa and myself—and you open your home to strangers….’
‘I have told you that I shall never live under the same roof as Louisa again, Michael. Your wife does not like me. She never has and she never will.’
‘You were pleased enough to take advantage of my generosity before you inherited a fortune,’ the man snapped back irritably. ‘If Agatha had left it to me, with an income for you—as any sensible woman would!—none of this would have occurred. She might have known that you would not know how to protect yourself.’
‘If Aunt Agatha had wished to leave her money to you, she would have done so,’ Amelia replied, her voice calm but with an underlying anger. ‘She told me that she had done all she intended to do for you or your sons. We share the same father, Michael, but it was my mother of whom Aunt Agatha was so fond.’
‘I dare say, but Agatha was Father’s aunt and I am as entitled as you, Amelia. I did not fight the will; it would cause a scandal, and I dislike that of all things, as you know. However, you could have put things right. You could help your cousins, at least.’
‘I may do so in time if I feel they deserve it,’ Amelia said. ‘However, that is a matter for me. You may not command me and I shall not be bullied into…’
Susannah jumped guiltily as she heard a twig snap underfoot and realised that she had been eavesdropping. She moved away quickly, turning back the way she had come, running now because she believed that someone was leaving the shelter of the rose arbour and she did not wish to be seen.
Susannah was overcome with embarrassment and shame. She had overheard what was clearly an argument between Miss Royston and—she presumed, for she had heard the name—Sir Michael, Miss Royston’s brother. What a revealing argument! She would not have listened if she had not heard Mama’s name, but she had wanted to know what was being said and could not leave when what she heard was so very shocking. Poor Miss Royston! Mama was right to suspect that she had been bullied and made unhappy by her family. It was not surprising to Susannah that she did not wish to live with them ever again.
Susannah stood at the front of the house, looking back at the tree-lined avenue, composing her thoughts. It was uncomfortable to know that Miss Royston’s brother had been warning her of hangers-on. Had she heard only that, Susannah might have begged her mama to take her home at once, but she had heard Miss Royston’s spirited defence of her friends—and she was quite certain that Sir Michael was merely angry because he wanted his sister’s fortune for himself! What a truly unpleasant man he must be to speak to his sister in that tone!
Having made up her mind that she would not let what she had overheard spoil her pleasure in the coming visit to town, she turned towards the house just as the front door opened. The housekeeper beckoned and Susannah ran towards her.
‘Miss Royston has comein now, miss. Your mama is ready to join in her the small parlour and I thought you would like to be there too.’
‘Oh, thank you,’ Susannah said. ‘I hope I have not kept her waiting?’
‘Miss Royston would not trouble if you had,’ the housekeeper said. ‘She is too good natured, miss—but you have not, for I cannot think you went far.’
‘Just a short wander towards the rose arbour,’ Susannah said, a faint blush in her cheeks. ‘Does Miss Royston have many visitors, ma’am?’
‘She has been living quietly since Lady Agatha Sawle’s death, though she entertains now and then… just friends of her aunt…’
‘Does her family visit often?’
‘No, miss, they do not.’ The housekeeper’s mouth pulled into a prim line. ‘Miss Royston has talked of your visit for days. I can’t say when I’ve seen her so pleased with life…’ She smiled at Susannah. ‘Here is your mama, waiting for you. Miss Royston is in the front parlour.’
Mrs Hampton looked at her daughter. ‘Well, dearest—are you ready?’ She looked expectant as the housekeeper knocked, opened the door and then announced them.
Susannah looked past her and saw a woman standing by the window. She had her back to them, but turned as her housekeeper spoke, a smile on her face. Had she not overheard the quarrel, Susannah might have missed the telltale signs of distress. Her mother saw nothing, moving towards Miss Royston eagerly.
Susannah hung back a little, watching.
‘Amelia, my dear friend,’ Mrs Hampton greeted her with an embrace and a kiss. ‘I cannot express how grateful I am for all you are doing for us!’
‘I explained in my letter that you will be doing me a favour,’ Amelia said and smiled in welcome. ‘I do not wish to stay in town with my sister-in-law, and I cannot stay alone. As yet, I have not thought of taking a companion. Besides, it is so much nicer to have friends, is it not? Once we are invited out, we shall meet all our acquaintances, but it will be more comfortable for us to attend the various affairs together, do you not think so?’
Listening, Susannah realised how true Amelia’s words were. She had felt that they were very obliged to Miss Royston for her invitation, as of course they were, but what she had overheard in the garden had brought home how very uncomfortable Miss Royston must have been in her brother’s home. His angry tone, the unkindness in his words, were hurtful, and she could imagine that Miss Royston had had much to bear in the past from her family. The knowledge made her angry that anyone could be so unkind to their own sister, and it made her wish to protect and help Miss Royston.
‘Yes, much more comfortable to have a friend,’ Mrs Hampton was assuring her as Susannah’s eyes wandered round the room. It was a large room, furnished with important, dark mahogany pieces. Comfortable rather than fashionably elegant. ‘You are looking very well, Amelia. I see you are wearing grey. I myself have put on my lilac for the first time today. Shall you go into colours once we are in town?’
‘I think grey and lilac would be suitable, and perhaps some dark colours as the weeks pass,’ Amelia said. ‘I have only just put off my blacks, but I shall wear colours again soon. Aunt Agatha would not expect me to wear black for ever. Indeed, I doubt she wished it at all, but in the circumstances I thought it right to show respect. She has been so very generous to me. I knew she intended to leave me something, but I had no idea how much that would be.’
‘Well, I am sure you deserved it,’ Mrs Hampton said with a look of warm approval. She turned towards Susannah, beckoning her. ‘Come forward, my love. You remember Miss Royston, of course.’
Susannah made an elegant curtsy, smiling a little shyly. ‘Yes, I do remember Miss Royston. It is exceedingly kind of you to invite us to stay with you in town, ma’am. I do not know how to thank you—for everything. If you are certain you wish to do so much…’ She had to ask, since she had heard what Sir Michael thought of her and Mama, but there was no hesitation in Miss Royston’s response.
‘You may thank me by being happy,’ Amelia told her with a look of such warmth that Susannah’s last reservation fled. ‘I knew that you must be finding things difficult since your terrible loss, and I wanted to help a little if I could. Besides, as I told your mama, I wish for friends to stay with me in town. You are doing me a great favour by agreeing to accompany me to town.’
‘I think you are very kind, ma’am,’ Susannah said, glowing with pleasure. Miss Royston was so exact in her manners and did not make one feel one was receiving charity at all. She had been a little nervous of meeting her, especially after hearing the argument—but her charm banished all Susannah’s doubts. ‘It is so exciting. I can hardly wait!’
‘Once it is known we are in town, I am sure we shall be invited everywhere,’ Amelia went on. ‘You will make many new friends and I dare say you will be one of the prettiest girls of the Season—if not the prettiest!’
Susannah blushed and shook her head. She thought Miss Royston was beautiful with her reddish toned hair and green eyes, though she would not have dreamed of saying as much to her face. For a wealthy woman, her attire was modest. Although still in mourning, Amelia was wearing a stylish gown that owed everything to good taste and nothing to ostentation. Indeed, the only jewellery she wore was a small but pretty gold-and-pearl brooch pinned to the bodice of her gown.
Susannah remembered that she had thought Miss Royston had been a little quiet when they met in Bath, though she knew that their friend had possessed a lovely smile. She had not smiled often then, which was hardly to be wondered at in her situation! She could have had nothing to smile about living in her brother’s house, for he was undoubtedly a bully.
‘Come and have tea,’ Amelia said and indicated that they should sit. ‘You must wish for some refreshment after your journey. I am sorry that I had to keep you waiting. My brother came unexpectedly to call…’ A look of anger and distress passed fleetingly across her face, but was gone so quickly that it might never have been there.
Susannah glanced around the large, square room. The décor was all in varying shades of green and cream, soft muted colours that gave it a feeling of comfort and ease. She thought that the curtains had not been changed in an age, but liked the homely feeling that prevailed. The room had an atmosphere of having been lived in happily for some years: a book lay on a table, a sewing basket stood by a comfortable elbow chair, and the pianoforte had a well-loved shine that seemed to indicate it was often used. A pretty Canterbury held sheets of music that had been much handled.
Amelia rang the bell and almost immediately a butler brought in a large silver tray displaying a handsome set of plain silver. A maid followed and set up the stand so that he could deposit his burden and another maid brought in an arrangement of dainty cakes and biscuits that she set on an occasional table.
As the tea was poured and Susannah got up to hand a cup to her mama, she observed that Miss Royston seemed more in command of her situation than before, which was understandable. In the past she had been obliged to consult her sister-in-law before making plans. Now she was free to do as she pleased, and it seemed she was full of plans for the coming Season.
‘I have written to one or two friends, telling them of the date I intend to be in town,’ Amelia said. ‘We already have several invitations to dine, and I am certain there will be many more. I shall give a dinner the first week we are in town and I thought we might have a little dance for Susannah once she has made friends.’
‘Oh, Miss Royston,’ Susannah exclaimed, struck by this extra kindness. ‘I had not expected a dance of my own. Do you truly wish to go to so much trouble on my behalf? You have done so much—some would say far too much. We are not even family…’ She glanced away, her cheeks heating as Miss Royston’s eyes flew to her face. She nibbled at a delicious almond comfit as Amelia sipped her tea and looked thoughtful.
‘You are my very good friends,’ she said after a pause. ‘At one time your mama was the only friend I felt I might trust. To me you are as much and perhaps more than family. Besides, it will be no trouble at all,’ Amelia said and laughed. ‘I shall employ others to make certain that everything goes well on the night. Besides, I love to dance and to see young people enjoying themselves.’
‘You speak as if you were past your youth,’ Margaret Hampton said and shook her head. ‘You are still young enough to dance and enjoy life yourself, Amelia.’
‘Yes, perhaps I am, if anyone wished to dance with me,’ Amelia agreed, and her eyes reflected amusement. She looked at Susannah. ‘Please, my dear, you must call me Amelia, at least in private. I want you to think of me as your good friend—an older sister, perhaps.’
‘Oh…thank you,’ Susannah said, a faint colour still in her cheeks. Had Miss Royston suspected her of overhearing her argument with her brother? ‘Yes, that would be very comfortable, when we are all together.’
‘Good. I want you to be comfortable and happy, Susannah.’ Amelia assured her. ‘Your things have been taken to your rooms, though only the small bags have been unpacked, for the day after tomorrow we set out for London.’
‘This will be my first visit to London. I have been to Bath twice. Mama took me to the theatre and the shops. I think London will be very exciting.’
‘You will find it strange and new, but I am sure you will enjoy yourself. There are many theatres and excellent shops in town.’ Amelia smiled at her. ‘Come, we shall go upstairs, for I understand that you have not yet seen your room, Susannah.’
Susannah followed her hostess up the wide staircase, glancing at the portraits hanging on the wall. She felt excited and nervous at the same time, because she understood how lucky she was that Amelia had offered her this Season in town. Amelia’s claims to need friends were mere politeness, because she could have employed a companion for far less than she was giving Susannah and her mother. It was sheer good nature on Amelia’s part, and Susannah was suitably grateful.
The room she was shown into upstairs was pleasant. Decorated in various shades of blue and cream, it had a cool elegance that she guessed was Miss Royston’s doing. The bedchamber had clearly been refurbished recently, and she guessed that their hostess had used her time of mourning to good purpose, ordering the house to her own taste. She had left the parlour untouched, perhaps because it was so very comfortable. Susannah approved of what had been done here and thought how nice it would feel to be in a position to do as one wished. She would love to have the task of refurbishing a large house, but it was expensive. Money was certainly important for a comfortable life.
Left to herself, Susannah sighed. She so longed for romance, but she also knew her duty to Mama. Mama belonged in a house like this, not the cottage she was forced to live in these days. Her only chance of a better life was for Susannah to make a suitable match.
Susannah had finished her examination of the room and begun to change out of her travelling gown when someone knocked at the door. Thinking it must be her mama, she called out that she might enter. A young girl with brown hair and dark eyes came in. She smiled and bobbed a curtsy, seeming a little shy.
‘My name is Iris, Miss Hampton,’ she said. ‘Miss Royston says I am to be your maid for the next few weeks and accompany you to London.’
‘Oh…’ Susannah was surprised; she had grown used to looking after herself at the cottage, but it would be nice to be waited on again, if only for a few weeks. ‘Please come in, Iris. I knew someone had unpacked the gown I wished to wear for this evening—was that you?’
‘Yes, miss. I pressed it while you were having tea.’ Iris looked at her with interest. ‘You have lovely hair, miss. May I dress it for you?’
‘Do you know how to?’ Susannah was hesitant, for her hair was so fine and she could never get it to stay tidy for long.
‘My mother used to be a lady’s maid before she married,’ Iris told her. ‘She taught me all the skills I need and Miss Royston took me on a few weeks ago. She has her own dresser, but I was allowed to help—and now I am to serve you. It will be exciting to visit London, miss.’
‘Yes, it will.’ Susannah smiled at her. ‘Well, you may put my hair up for me this evening,’ she said. ‘I have been experimenting with it myself, but it always falls down again. We shall see what you can do, Iris.’
‘I think I can manage to make it stay in place, miss,’ Iris said. ‘You will be surprised at the difference it will make.’
* * *
Susannah felt very grand as she went down for dinner that evening. She was wearing an expensive yellow gown Mama had bought her for her birthday a few weeks before Papa died. She had not worn it since, because she had not had reason to do so, but this evening was a celebration and she wished to look her best. Her hair was dressed softly into a double loop at the back of her head, caught back with a silk flower and a few wisps allowed to curl at the sides of her face. She looked elegant and quite different from her normal self.
‘Susannah!’ Mrs Hampton stared at her daughter in surprise. ‘You have done your hair differently, my love. It makes you look older and more grown up.’
‘I think it suits her very well,’ Amelia said as she came to join them. ‘Are you pleased with Iris, Susannah? I thought she would be a help to you; if this is an example of her work, I am well satisfied.’
‘Iris put my hair up for me,’ Susannah said. ‘She says we shall try different styles and see which looks best. I think she is very clever with her fingers, for I could never have achieved something like this.’
‘I think I like it now that I am getting used to it,’ Mrs Hampton said, looking slightly pensive. ‘I have been used to thinking of you as my little girl, but I must get used to the idea that you are a young lady now.’
‘And a very beautiful one,’ Amelia said in a tone of approval. ‘I believe she will create something of a stir in town, Margaret. I think you must accustom yourself to the idea that Susannah will be much sought after by the gentlemen.’
‘Well, I hope she may meet someone nice,’ Mrs Hampton said, giving her daughter a fond look. ‘She is a good girl and has been a great comfort to me these past months. I am not sure what I should have done without Susannah’s support.’
‘Yes, of course she has,’ Amelia said and laughed. ‘But we must stop talking about her, for we are making poor Susannah blush.’
Susannah shook her head. She had always known she was pretty, of course, but with her hair styled differently she was beginning to feel like someone else—a young woman instead of a girl.
‘I hope that I shall meet someone I can like well enough to marry him,’ she said. ‘There was a gentleman at home who might have proposed marriage, but he was some years older and I did not care for him….’
‘I dare say you will be able to pick and choose when we are in town,’ Amelia told her. ‘I was thought pretty when I was your age. I might have married several times, but I hesitated and then…’ She sighed, shaking her head. ‘It was too late. I wasted my chance, Susannah, but you must make the most of yours.’
‘Yes, I shall,’ Susannah agreed. ‘If I am lucky enough to meet a gentleman I can like.’
In her mind she substituted the word like for love. She wanted to fall desperately in love with a handsome man, one who would carry her away on his white horse to a castle where she would live happily ever after. As her mother and Amelia turned to walk into the dining parlour, Susannah laughed at her foolish thoughts. It was unlikely she would meet a prince and live in a castle, of course, but she did hope that something exciting would happen.
* * *
The evening was as pleasant as any Susannah could recall for a long time. Her mama was so happy, so clearly pleased to be with her friend, and content with the arrangement that Susannah had almost made up her mind not to mention what she had overheard. However, Amelia drew her apart when Mrs Hampton stopped to enquire a recipe from the housekeeper.
‘Susannah my dearest,’ Amelia said softly, ‘my housekeeper tells me that you took a little walk towards the rose arbour earlier.’
‘Yes…’ Susannah blushed. ‘I will tell you that I heard Mama’s name mentioned and then…an argument. I did not listen long… Forgive me. I know I should have walked away immediately, but I could not help listening for a moment or two.’
‘If you heard someone say unpleasant things of you and your mother, please forgive me,’ Amelia said. ‘I am sorry if you were hurt and I hope you will not let it spoil your visit—or our friendship?’
‘It will not, for you said only good things,’ Susannah said. ‘I think he must be very unkind to speak to you so! Oh, I should not have said that—but I did not like to think he could speak to you in such a manner.’
‘Yes, my brother has been unkind,’ Amelia replied, a hint of sadness in her eyes. ‘His wife more so. Louisa can be spiteful when she chooses. However, I do not speak of it. I did not wish to be rude by appearing in town without informing my family of my intention, but Michael came down after he had my letter and we quarrelled. I shall say no more of the affair. I just wished you to know that his thoughts were not mine. I hope you know that I am truly happy your mama accepted my invitation.’
‘I do know,’ Susannah said and smiled. ‘You are kind and generous and I think we shall be very happy together.’
‘Then that is all I ask for,’ Amelia said. ‘Run along to bed now, my love. You have had a long journey and you must be tired.’
Susannah kissed her cheek on impulse. ‘You are so good! I hate him for being unkind to you,’ she said rashly and then ran away because she feared she had said too much. However, when she looked back, she saw that Amelia was smiling.
Chapter Two
Toby Sinclair looked at his uncle and frowned. He was twenty and newly in town, on the brink of his first Season since leaving Oxford. Harry Pendleton had just promised to put him up for several clubs, excluding the one he most wanted to belong to, however, which was the Four-in-Hand driving club. The elite group consisted of a select band of Corinthians who believed themselves to be masters of style and sport, allowing only a favoured few to their ranks. Having met his uncle by chance at a society affair, he seized his opportunity.
‘Dash it all, Harry! You know I’ve got good hands. You taught me to handle a team yourself. Why can’t you put my name forward?’
‘Because, my young friend, they would blackball me immediately,’ Harry replied with a teasing grin. He was very fond of his sister’s boy and he had taken him in hand from an early age, teaching him the things his father would have had he been able. Sir James Sinclair had married late in life and was now a semi-invalid, confined to his estate and quite often to his rooms with bouts of ill health. ‘For one thing, those clothes you are wearing won’t pass muster, not precise enough—and you’ve a way to go in your handling of a team before they would consider you up to scratch. Coleridge and Ravenshead are pretty strict about who they allow to join. If you keep your nose clean and show that you’re up to snuff this Season, I’ll put you forward next year.’
‘Next year,’ Toby said and pulled a disgusted face. ‘I know they are your particular friends, but I’d back myself in a race against either of them with your blacks, Harry.’
‘Always supposing I would allow you to handle my blacks,’ Harry replied and flicked a speck of non-existent fluff from his immaculate coat of superfine. ‘Don’t look now, but Northaven has just come in. Remember what I told you, Toby. The marquis is received everywhere and you cannot avoid him and his cronies, but be careful of them. The last thing you want is to be caught in their net. Your father asked me to look out for you. He would expect me to warn you of men like Northaven.’
‘Didn’t you say that you won a hundred guineas from him a couple of weeks ago?’
‘Yes. I found it impossible not to oblige him when he invited me to play, but I suspect he may not be completely honest at the tables.’
‘You mean, he cheats?’ Toby’s face showed his disdain as he glanced at the man they were discussing. The Marquis of Northaven was a tall, well-formed gentleman with black hair and very blue eyes. He was generally held to be handsome and the ladies liked him. His progress through the room was causing something of a stir amongst the fair sex, though most looked at him slyly when they thought he was not aware. All the matchmaking mamas were sure to have warned their daughters that he was a rake and not to be trusted, though in some cases that probably only made him more attractive to very young ladies.
‘Well, I dare say he may think I am a flat, but, thanks to you, I am up to most tricks,’ Toby said, his gaze drawn to some newcomers. ‘I say…she’s a beauty, wouldn’t you agree? I believe she is new. I haven’t seen her before.’
Harry followed his nephew’s gaze. A vision in white had just entered the room, accompanied by two attractive older ladies wearing grey and lilac respectively. His eyes narrowed, for the girl was certainly very lovely. Her hair was a dark honey blonde, and she stood out by virtue of the simplicity of her attire. Most of the younger ladies had frills and flounces on their gowns, but she had chosen something more elegant, plain even. Her hair was dressed simply in a loop of the back of her neck, yet it suited her perfectly. He thought perhaps she had taken her cue from the younger of her companions.
Harry frowned as he recognised the lady in grey silk. He had not seen her for some years and she had changed a great deal, but she was still beautiful, extremely elegant. Miss Amelia Royston! If he remembered correctly, his friend, Gerard Ravenshead, had once been interested in the lady, but something had gone wrong. Harry did not know all the details, but Gerard had certainly been cut up about it at the time. It was about the same time that a livid scar appeared at his left temple. Gerard had never spoken of the scar or the reason for the loss of his hopes.
‘Yes, she is rather lovely,’ he said, bringing his gaze back to the vision in white. ‘I have no idea who she is, but I know one of her companions.’
‘You couldn’t introduce me, could you?’ Toby asked and arched his right eyebrow.
‘Fancy your chances, do you?’ Harry asked and chuckled as he saw the younger man colour. ‘I do not think your mama would be happy to see you ensnared too soon, Toby.’
‘Oh, lord, no,’ Toby said and made a grimace of horror. ‘I shall not marry until I am at least as old as you and ready to set up a nursery. Far too boring to be married before you’ve been on the town a few years.’
‘You young cub!’ Harry said and made a face at him. ‘What makes you think I am ready to set up my nursery?’
‘Mama said it was time you did,’ Toby replied innocently but with a wicked air. ‘She says if you leave it much longer, it may be too late.’
‘Good grief. I am three and thirty,’ Harry said and grimaced. ‘I do not think the case desperate yet. Lady Sinclair would have had me married ten years ago if she could, but I had no mind for it. I believe she is more desperate to see me wed than Mama!’
He smiled oddly, for he knew his sister Anne had his best interests at heart. They had always been close and she understood him, perhaps even better than he did himself. Besides, of late he had begun to feel it was time he settled down. Indeed, these days he was as happy with his dogs and horses at home in the country as cutting a dash in town. However, he had not met a lady he wished to marry. Most of the young ladies brought to London by their eager mothers were too naïve and often too timid for his taste. He knew that he would be bored by their company within months and that would be unfair to his wife. If he were to marry, it would be to a lady of spirit, someone who could retain his interest. He was not sure that romantic love existed, but it was certainly possible to admire and care for another. His mother had undoubtedly loved his father, and would never consider marrying again, though she might if she had wished. Harry felt that if he were to marry he would like to be loved in that way, though he knew that most of his friends had married for reasons other than love. Had he been satisfied with a marriage of convenience he might had wed a long time ago, but he was looking for something more.
His eyes narrowed as he noticed that a steady queue of gentlemen were making their way to the side of the beautiful young lady in white. He watched her for a while. Something about her seemed familiar, but he could not think what. He was certain he had never met her before—and yet there was something. She had pretty manners and a nice smile, he observed, before turning away to join some friends in the card room. It was very unlikely that the newcomer would be any different to the other young ladies in the room.
Harry rather thought that when he married, he would probably choose an older lady, perhaps a widow. An intelligent lady, who would fill his house with good company and give him an heir. It was all very well to hope for something more, but in the end he might be forced to marry for the sake of the family.
‘No, no, please, gentlemen, you must not fight over me!’ Susannah begged, her eyes bright with laughter as the two young bucks argued fiercely over the last dance on her card. ‘If you cannot agree which of you should have the dance, I shall promise it to neither of you.’
‘But it should be mine,’ Tom Roberts asserted. ‘I am sure I asked first.’
‘I am the elder by birth and therefore I should take precedence over this rascal,’ his twin Edgar replied, glaring at his brother. ‘You must dance with me, Miss Hampton.’
‘I believe this dance is promised to me, gentlemen.’ The newcomer held out his hand with a touch of command that prompted Susannah to obey, even though she had not yet been introduced. However, she knew who he was, for she had remarked his progress through the room and asked Amelia.
‘Thank you, sir,’ she said, smiling up at the Marquis of Northaven as he led her out to join the throng of dancers. ‘It was good of you to rescue me.’
‘The Roberts twins are known for squabbling with each other,’ Northaven said. ‘Harmless enough, I dare say, but I thought you needed a little help. This is your first Season in town, I believe?’
‘My first dance,’ Susannah confided, her smile sparkling at him, because the evening had been far more exciting than she could ever have imagined. She had not sat out once, and the twins were not the first gentlemen to argue over her, in a friendly, teasing manner, of course. It was just good fun and she had thoroughly enjoyed being fussed over. The reality had far outweighed her dreams thus far. ‘I have had such a lovely time.’
‘Everyone speaks of you as the latest rage,’ Northaven said, amused by her honesty. She was very young and he was usually bored by innocence, but she had spirit and an artlessness that was amusing. ‘It all seems fresh and new for the moment, but you will be bored within a month.’
‘Oh, no, I couldn’t be,’ Susannah retorted. ‘We have been invited everywhere, to so many different affairs. I couldn’t possibly be bored in London.’
‘Do you not know that it is fashionable to be bored?’ Northaven lifted an eyebrow, his expression mocking.
‘Oh…’ Susannah laughed because she believed he was teasing her. ‘I fear that I must be unfashionable then, sir. I have not yet acquired town bronze and you must forgive my country manners—but I refuse to be bored when people have gone to so much trouble on my behalf. It would be rude and ungrateful.’
‘Then you will set a new fashion,’ he told her. ‘Since everyone approves of you, you can do no wrong.’
Susannah looked at him uncertainly as their dance ended. She was not quite sure what to think of him, because he was very different from most of the young gentlemen she had danced with that evening. He returned her to her mother and Amelia, bowed and took his leave. She was conscious of a feeling of disappointment. There was something slightly dangerous about the marquis, and she was not sure she had made an impression on him, though she found him intriguing. He was very handsome, like one of the heroes from her dreams.
‘Susannah…’ She became aware of her mother speaking. ‘This gentleman wishes to make your acquaintance. Lord Pendleton—my daughter, Susannah. Your father was a friend of Lord Pendleton’s father, my dear.’ Mrs Hampton smiled and moved away a few steps to talk to a lady who had caught her attention.
Susannah turned to look at the gentleman her mother had just introduced. He was tall, though not quite as tall as Northaven, but in his way equally attractive. His hair was not as dark as the marquis’s, being a chestnut brown, and with a slight curl to it, his eyes a soft, melting brown. A little shock ran through her as she recognised him. He was the rude gentleman who had almost knocked her down in the lane. He was dressed very differently this evening, but she could not mistake those eyes, even though they were not flashing with temper. She felt hot inside as she wondered whether he would recognise her.
‘Sir.’ She inclined her head, but kept her eyes lowered. Her heart was racing for she hardly knew how to face him. She was almost sure that he had not recognised her and she hoped he would not. Their encounter had been so brief that he would surely have forgotten her. Her hand curled into itself, her heart beating faster. ‘I am pleased to meet you.’
‘It is your first visit to town, Miss Hampton?’
‘Yes—how did you know?’ Her heart raced. Had he recognised her as the girl he had met briefly in a country lane?
Harry hesitated, frowned, then said, ‘I do not wish to seem interfering, Miss Hampton, but if I were you, I should not dance with Northaven too often.’ His gaze narrowed. ‘You know it is strange, but I have the oddest feeling that I have seen you somewhere quite recently.’
‘I doubt it, sir.’ Susannah’s heart caught with fright. What would he think if he realised where he had seen her? One word from a gentleman of his stature and she might be ruined! ‘Why do you warn me against Lord Northaven? He seems a perfect gentleman to me, sir.’
‘I do not fault his manners or his lineage,’ Harry told her. ‘I think perhaps he is not a suitable partner for an innocent and very pretty young lady.’
Susannah had received so many compliments that evening that his words made little impression. She had been called beautiful, stunning, a nymph, an angel and many similar endearments. To be called pretty was not remarkable and, besides, she did not like his tone. Anyone would think he was her brother or her uncle! He was arrogant and opinionated—a bore.
‘I thank you for your concern, sir,’ she replied primly. ‘However, I believe I am quite safe here under the eyes of Mama and Miss Royston.’
‘Yes, I expect you are, as long as you take care to remain where they can see you,’ Harry said and hesitated. ‘Forgive me if I seemed to lecture you. It is not my place to do so—but I would never allow a niece of mine to associate with that gentleman.’
‘I am not your niece, sir.’
‘No, you are not. Forgive me. I have earned your displeasure. I spoke with good intent, but I should not have interfered,’ Harry said, then inclined his head to her and walked off.
Susannah stared after him. His back was very straight and she understood that she had offended him. She had thought at first that he was one of the most attractive gentlemen she had met that evening—in her whole life!—but he was a stuffy bore. She did not think he could be much above thirty years, but he behaved as if he were old enough to be her father! He was certainly not the kind of man she was seeking as a husband. Her eyes searched the room for the man that had made the biggest impression on her that evening and found him.
Northaven turned his head and glanced at her. For a moment his blue eyes met hers and her heart jerked, but then he looked at his companion once more and smiled at something he was saying. Almost at once they left the room together. Susannah’s gaze followed him, her feelings showing a little too well on her face.
‘I could not help overhearing what Harry Pendleton said to you a moment ago,’ Amelia said, and Susannah glanced round at her. ‘It was not his place to say it, of course, but he is quite right, Susannah. Northaven is a rake and perhaps worse. He is received everywhere, but there has been some talk of late. I should not dream of trying to dictate to you, my dear, for there is nothing so annoying as being told not to do something—but if I were you, I should be careful of Northaven, at least until you know more of him. But please do not think that I mean to interfere, for I most certainly do not. That is something I abhor.’
Susannah caught a look in her eyes that told her she was thinking of the way her own life had been when she was forced to live in her brother’s house. Once again she felt indignant that anyone should have made Amelia suffer so. She had been introduced to Amelia’s brother earlier that evening, but his stiff manner had not helped to change her opinion, nor the way he had looked at her, as if she were something the cat had brought in! He obviously thought that she was an adventuress, bent on taking what she could from his sister.
‘Oh…then, of course, I shall be very careful,’ Susannah replied. She did not wish to offend her kind hostess, though she had liked the marquis despite the warning. However, it was Lord Pendleton’s advice that rankled. It was just the same as that day he had almost knocked her down. Instead of apologising he had lost his temper—and now he was seeking to lecture her. Did he imagine that she was stupid? He had spoken to her as if she were still in the schoolroom! She had no intention of becoming compromised by any of the gentlemen, several of whom had enquired if she would like to take the air. She was enjoying her success, but she had as yet no thoughts of marrying anyone and must therefore be careful not to do anything that might seem too particular.
Susannah still felt in her heart that the most exciting man she had met that evening was the Marquis of Northaven, yet it was Lord Pendleton who lingered in her mind long after she had said goodnight to Mama and Amelia and retired to bed. When she dreamed, annoyingly it was of Lord Pendleton, who had somehow acquired a schoolmaster’s hat and waved his cane at her, telling her to behave or he would punish her.
How very ridiculous! In the morning her dreams vanished with the sight of the sunshine pouring in at her window and she rose, feeling refreshed and eager for the day to begin. She laughingly dismissed her annoyance of the previous evening. Life was too amusing to be disturbed by such a small thing for long. Lord Pendleton was rich and respected, but he did not fit her idea of a knight on a white horse. Besides, they had so many engagements, so many affairs to attend that she had no time to reflect on that particular gentleman.
She was going shopping again that morning and she wanted to buy a bonnet she had seen in the milliner’s window a day or so earlier. Bonnets, pretty gowns and enjoying herself were of far more importance than one gentleman’s opinion of her. She did not know why she had let it weigh with her at all!
She would put the disagreeable Lord Pendleton out of her mind and not think of him again.
Harry was undressing that evening when it suddenly came to him. At first he thought that his mind was playing tricks on him. The girl in the country lane and Miss Susannah Hampton were one and the same. In the act of removing his breeches, he swore loudly, causing his valet to turn and look at him.
‘Was something the matter, my lord?’
‘No, Philips, nothing at all,’ Harry said and laughed ruefully. ‘I am a damned fool, that’s all.’
‘I rather doubt it, sir,’ the devoted servant said and smiled. ‘If there is anything I can do to be of assistance?’
‘No, nothing,’ Harry replied, realising that the man was brushing the coat he had worn that evening. ‘Leave all that now and get off to bed.’
He sat on the edge of the bed as the man went out, then sipped the glass of brandy Philips had thoughtfully put out for him.
‘It is a small world…’ Harry smiled to himself. He had wondered why the Hampton girl seemed a little prickly, but now he understood perfectly.
She had looked very different in her simple country dress, her hair blown by the wind and roses in her cheeks—but those eyes did not lie. She really did have the most remarkable eyes.
Had he given her an irrevocable dislike of him? She had called him rude and arrogant at their first meeting, and tonight he had committed the unforgivable sin of lecturing her as if she were a schoolgirl. He had no idea why he had done that, for it was certainly not his business to warn young girls he did not know of Northaven’s character. Some instinct had made him want to protect her from a man he knew unworthy.
Harry pulled a face, chuckling at his own stupidity. He would have to apologise the next time they met. Or perhaps not? She might find it embarrassing to be reminded of that day in the lane. It might be better to try to mend fences before he confessed that he had remembered the incident.
‘What a charming bonnet,’ Amelia said as Susannah tried on the white silk tied with pale blue ribbons and trimmed with matching blue bows. ‘It would compliment that blue pelisse we ordered for morning wear. Why do you not buy it?’
‘I have already bought three hats,’ Susannah objected, mindful that it was not her money they were spending. ‘Do I really need it?’
‘Thankfully, we do not have to consider need, only pleasure,’ Amelia said and nodded to the milliner to indicate that they would take the bonnet. ‘Now, my love—what do you think of the green bonnet in the window? It is a little older in style and I was thinking of it for myself. Do you think it will become me?’
Susannah went to the window and looked at the bonnet. A gentleman was passing at that precise moment, and by chance he happened to look up and see her. He tipped his hat to her, smiling in a manner that made her heart skip a beat. She gave him a look of disapproval and moved away swiftly. Honestly! Was it impossible to go anywhere in London without seeing Lord Pendleton? He had been present at every affair they had attended this week! It almost seemed as if he were following them. She returned to Amelia, determined to put him from her mind.
‘I think the green would suit you very well—’ Susannah began and then broke off as the shop door opened and her mama came in, carrying parcels and closely followed by the offending gentleman in person. ‘Mama…you are loaded down. I thought you meant only to borrow one book from the library. Had you said you wished for more, I should have come with you to help carry them.’
‘There was no need, dearest,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘I found so many volumes that I had been wanting and I was carried away. It was all going splendidly until a large dog jumped at me and I dropped them—only two doors away from here. Lord Pendleton saw my predicament and helped me. When I told him I was coming here, he insisted on accompanying me. Was that not kind of him?’
Susannah looked at the books, which had been set down for a moment. ‘Very kind, Mama. I am not sure when we shall find time to read all of these, for we are invited out every day, to more affairs than we can easily accommodate.’
‘Well, I may not always wish to accompany you on every occasion,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘You and Amelia are so full of life…’ She smiled at the gentleman standing silently at her side, his dark eyes observing them with a hint of amusement. ‘It is such a thing to be young, is it not, sir?’
Lord Pendleton’s eyes were centred on Susannah as he answered, ‘To be so very young is sometimes as much a trial as a pleasure, ma’am. I think we sometimes forget all the problems being young and insecure may bring.’
‘Very true,’ Mrs Hampton agreed, giving him a look of approval. ‘Especially for a young man fresh upon the town, I dare say. I met your nephew earlier. He was just leaving the lending library. A charming young man, if I may say so.’
‘Toby is charming,’ Harry said. ‘This is his first Season in town, you know. I have been trying to warn him of the pitfalls of deep play. There are some gentlemen who do not scruple to invite young men to play deeper than they ought.’
‘Scandalous!’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘They should know better—it can cause real misery for their families.’ Her attention turned to Amelia, who had tried on the green bonnet and was asking for her opinion. ‘It looks very well on you, Amelia. I am sure you should take it—it will go well with several of your gowns, and I like you in colours.’
‘Yes, I think perhaps I may.’
‘Miss Hampton,’ Harry said as the two older ladies discussed which gowns the bonnet would compliment, ‘do you attend Lady Silverson’s dance this evening?’
‘Yes, I believe we do,’ Susannah replied. ‘Shall we see you there, sir?’
‘Yes, I think you will,’ Harry told her. ‘Indeed, yes, I believe I shall come. Tell me, do you intend to return home shortly? I have my carriage near by if you should require help with all your parcels.’
‘Oh, no,’ Susannah denied. She felt a little warm as she felt his gaze upon her. ‘The milliner will deliver our purchases and Mama’s books will be easy enough for the three of us.’
‘Then I shall continue on my way, for I have an appointment with some friends, though it could easily be postponed if you required my escort,’ Harry said. ‘Miss Royston, you must definitely buy that bonnet. It becomes you charmingly. The colour might have been made for you. Good day to you, ladies. I shall see you this evening.’
‘How odd,’ Amelia remarked as Harry went out and the door closed. ‘I did not expect an opinion from Lord Pendleton. It is rare that he speaks in such a frivolous fashion these days—though he was more free in his manners when he was young, of course.’
‘He is not so old, Amelia, and charming in my opinion,’ Mrs Hampton said, her eyes thoughtful. ‘Besides, he is right. You should buy the bonnet.’
Susannah was thoughtful as Amelia completed her purchase. Lord Pendleton had enquired if they were to attend the dance that evening before telling her that he was going. Of course he was invited everywhere, but it was a little surprising that everywhere they went he was almost certain to be near by.
‘We carried Toby off to play with us last evening.’ Max Coleridge grinned when Harry raised his brows as they spoke at their club a little later that morning. ‘Northaven was trying to bully him into a game and he was clearly unwilling.’
‘I have warned him of it, but you have my thanks,’ Harry said and beckoned to the waiter to bring them more wine. ‘It would be wrong to try to keep him on a leading string. He would resent it and I won’t do it. However, I would be obliged if you could have a word with him. He might take it better from you.’
‘Already done,’ Max said and grinned. ‘You don’t want to smother the boy, Harry. He has to learn—and we were all young once. Hard as it may be to remember in your case.’
Since there was only a couple of years between them, this brought a shout of laughter from Harry. ‘Take care, Max! I might challenge you to a duel for that!’
‘You would undoubtedly have done so once,’ Max replied carelessly, a spark of mischief in his grey eyes. His hair was a dark brown, thick and with a tendency to curl at the nape of his neck if he allowed it to grow longer than he liked. ‘Getting a bit lazy…grumpy in your old age?’
‘Damn it, I’m not that old yet,’ Harry said ruefully. ‘Though there are times when I feel it.’ He eyed his friend thoughtfully. ‘Honestly—have I become too serious of late? I feel that I may be stale…set in my ways…’
‘Is there a reason for your feeling that, perhaps?’
Harry shook his head. ‘Just a notion that I may be coming down a bit hard on Toby. He hasn’t said anything to you?’
‘Not at all, admires you,’ Max assured him, his gaze narrow and thoughtful. ‘No other reason?’
Harry saw the laughter hidden just below the surface. ‘None at all—what makes you ask?’
‘Just wondered. Lady Sinclair told me she thought it was time you set up your nursery. Wondered if you meant to oblige her?’
‘Damn her—and you.’ Harry scowled. ‘I have no intention of it yet, Max. You seem to have a bee in your bonnet—when am I to wish you happy?’
‘I have been thinking of it…’
‘Really? Who is the young lady?’ Harry stared in astonishment.
‘There is no one as yet, but I think it is time to start looking.’
‘This is sudden, isn’t it?’
Max nodded and sipped his wine. ‘I think perhaps I ought to consider it or the alternative,’ he said and shook his head as Harry arched one eyebrow. ‘No, I shall not explain, Harry. It’s a small problem I have to work out for myself. Anyway, we kept Toby out of trouble for you the other evening, but Northaven ensnared another young idiot. I didn’t know him, but I think perhaps Toby did.’
‘There’s always one,’ Harry agreed. He lapsed into silence, sipping his wine and thinking about what his friend had said about it being time to think of marriage. Max was, after all, two years his junior….
Susannah’s heart raced as she saw the marquis turn and look at her. He immediately began to walk towards her. She had just two dances left on her card that evening and she wondered if he would ask for them both.
‘Miss Hampton,’ a voice spoke at her side. Susannah turned to look, feeling a spurt of annoyance as she saw that it was Lord Pendleton. He had told her he would be there that evening, but she had not seen him earlier. Why did he have to speak to her at just the moment the Marquis of Northaven was about to approach her? Glancing back, she saw that the marquis had turned away and was speaking to another young lady, Mary Hamilton, a girl whom Susannah had come to know as they were often invited to the same affairs. ‘May I hope that you have a dance for me?’
Susannah blushed, because her thoughts were unworthy. ‘Yes, of course, sir. Perhaps you would like the waltz, which is just about to start? I believe it is my last…’ She was not lying because the supper dance was not a waltz and all the others had been taken.
‘I should be delighted,’ Harry said and took her hand. ‘May I say that you look delightful this evening, Miss Hampton? Not every young lady wears white as well as you.’
‘I thank you for the compliment, sir,’ Susannah said. She put her annoyance at his untimely interruption aside, because however annoying it might be to have missed an invitation from the marquis—who was infrequently at these affairs—Lord Pendleton was wonderful at waltzing. ‘But I think there are many young ladies here this evening who look just as pretty.’
‘Perhaps. Yes, I agree there are many pretty girls, but only a handful are beautiful. Miss Royston is beautiful. You are beautiful—and Miss Hamilton is beautiful. The others are pretty.’
Susannah frowned at him. ‘I suppose you mean to compliment me, sir…’
‘No. I mean to be truthful,’ Harry told her. ‘You will discover that I am usually honest in my observations, Miss Hampton.’ He looked at her for a moment, as if considering something he wished to say, but nothing was forthcoming.
‘Oh…’ Susannah was thoughtful. She hardly knew how to answer him. She had thought he was paying her an exquisite compliment, but now he had made it seem almost a reprimand. He was such an odd man! She was not even sure that he liked her, though of course he was always polite. Lord Pendleton had some of the most exquisite manners, far more so than any gentleman she had met in the country; he was one of the most respected gentlemen in the drawing rooms of London, beloved of the hostesses. However, that did not particularly recommend him in her eyes. He seemed a little severe and she had not forgiven him for scolding her the first time they met. ‘Of course I do not know you well, sir.’
‘No, we are not well acquainted as yet,’ Harry agreed. ‘I shall hope that we may become so as the Season goes on, Miss Hampton.’
Susannah smiled at him uncertainly. She was not sure whether he was just being polite or whether he meant it—and even if he did, she was not sure that she truly wished to know him well. He was a little older than most of her admirers, and serious—though he had a habit of lingering in her mind and her dreams.
Their dance ended and Lord Pendleton left her with Amelia, but it was only a matter of some minutes before her next partner claimed her. Swept up in the excitement of the evening, Susannah forgot her disappointment at missing the chance to dance with the Marquis of Northaven. He did not approach her again and left the room long before the supper dance. In the meantime, another gentleman asked for a dance and she was obliged to give her last one to him.
Lord Pendleton did not ask her for another dance that evening, though she saw him dance with several other young ladies, including Mary Hamilton and Amelia.
It was as she was leaving the ballroom to refresh herself before supper that she happened to overhear two young ladies talking. They were whispering and giggling, and she could not help but hear what Mary was saying to her friend.
‘Mama says that I should encourage Pendleton if I get the chance, but I heard that he has an expensive mistress. Mama says that gentlemen often have them, but I am not sure I approve.’
Her friend giggled and whispered something. Miss Hamilton laughed harshly. ‘Well, I suppose he has fortune enough to pay for both a wife and a mistress if he cared for them, but I shall expect him to buy me more lavish presents than he gives her—if I encourage him, of course. I prefer Northaven, but Mama will not hear of it. She says he is a rogue and…’
Susannah hurried up the stairs, not wanting to hear more of their nonsense. She had been wondering why Lord Pendleton was always to be seen at these affairs, but if he were thinking of making Mary Hamilton an offer, he would naturally make certain of every chance to fix his interest with her.
Susannah could not help feeling disappointed. Not because her feelings were engaged, for they most certainly were not! However, she would not have expected a man like Harry Pendleton to be caught by Mary Hamilton. He had remarked that she was a beautiful young lady—but did he have any idea how very silly Mary Hamilton was? Susannah did not dislike her, but she would certainly not count her amongst the particular friends she had made since arriving in town.
Shaking her head over what she had learned, Susannah went into the bedchamber put aside for the ladies to use. She wondered if she ought to be shocked at the suggestion that Lord Pendleton had an expensive mistress. If it were true, she must be either very tolerant or very angry, for she could not have seen very much of her protector recently.
It was highly improper of her to think of such things, but she could not help wondering what it was like to be a gentleman’s mistress. How did one go on in such a situation? Susannah did not think it could be pleasant, even if there were handsome presents. She would not like to be Lord Pendleton’s mistress if he were thinking of marrying Mary Hamilton. Oh, dear, what a wicked thing to have come into her mind. She would not want to be any man’s mistress! And particularly not that rather annoying gentleman. She might have been even more annoyed if she had guessed at his thoughts that evening.
Harry was wondering why he had not yet made his apology. He was still hesitating because he thought it might have embarrassed her to know that he had recalled their first meeting.
* * *
‘Did you enjoy your drive, my love?’ Mrs Hampton asked when Susannah returned from an engagement with her new friend Miss Terry and her brother Sir James Terry two days later. ‘It was a beautiful morning for a drive in the park.’
‘Yes, it was,’ Susannah agreed and smiled. It had been a very pleasant morning—they had met so many people, all of whom seemed as if they wanted to stop and talk, particularly to Susannah, if they happened to be gentlemen. ‘We met several of our friends, Mama, and I was introduced to some new ones by Lord Northaven.’
‘I am not sure that I would wish you to know that gentleman’s friends,’ her mama said with a frown. ‘I know he is a most attractive gentleman and no one could fault his manners—but I have heard a few things that make me feel he may not be quite suitable for you to know, Susannah. You must greet him politely, of course, should he speak to you, but I think it best if you do not go out of your way to encourage him, dearest. I have heard him described as a rake. You must think of your reputation.’
‘I should not dream of encouraging the marquis any more than I would encourage the attentions of any gentleman I do not know well. I believe I have more sense than that, Mama.’
‘Yes, of course you do, my love,’ Mrs Hampton replied fondly. ‘At least, if there should be a suitable gentleman you rather liked—someone like Lord Pendleton, say—then you might be permitted to show a little encouragement, though nothing particular, of course. I do not like to see young ladies throwing themselves at the gentlemen, it is most unbecoming. Any advance must always come from the gentleman—though a smile does not go amiss.’
‘Oh, Lord Pendleton,’ Susannah said dismissively. Lord Pendleton seemed always there when she looked round, his serious eyes seeming to reproach her. She had not spoken to Northaven for some days—until that morning by chance in the park. After the last time, when he had changed his mind about asking her for a dance, she had believed he was indifferent to her, but that morning he had flirted with her outrageously, bringing a blush to her cheeks. Of course she could not tell Mama that! ‘Lord Pendleton is all very well, Mama, but a little stern—do you not think so?’
‘He seems to me an excellent gentleman in every way,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘We see him quite often. Has he given you an indication that he likes you, my dear?’
‘Mama! No, of course not,’ Susannah replied, a little wrinkle daring to mar the perfection of her smooth brow. ‘I believe he admires Miss Hamilton. She certainly believes it, for she expects an offer—and I think he imagines me to be a foolish child, far beneath his notice, I dare say.’
‘I am very certain he does not!’ Mrs Hampton responded on a laugh. ‘What makes you think he may have an interest in Miss Hamilton?’
‘He told me he considered her beautiful—and I overheard something she said to a friend. I believe she expects an offer soon. You must not imagine Lord Pendleton comes to these affairs just to see me. He has friends everywhere. I hear him spoken of all the time and I think he must be very popular. He is invited to all the best houses!’
‘Why would that be, do you imagine?’ Mrs Hampton asked innocently. ‘I am surprised he has an interest in Miss Hamilton. I had not noticed it myself.’
‘Oh, I suppose he is popular because he is rich, and of course he does have excellent manners,’ Susannah said thoughtfully. ‘He fetched me a glass of champagne when mine was accidentally knocked over last evening and I did not even have to ask, though he was not sitting with me.’
‘Quite an observant gentleman, as well as thoughtful,’ her mother said. ‘He served in the army with Wellington for a few years, you know, and was commended for his bravery; then he came home to take over the estate when his father fell ill and subsequently died. They say he has improved things considerably. He is very modern in his thinking when it comes to the land and agriculture.’
‘You clearly approve of the gentleman,’ Susannah said. Her mama obviously thought him a good catch! ‘Since you have been talking to him a great deal.’
‘Oh, not so very much,’ Mrs Hampton said airily. ‘One hears things, you know. I have not heard his name linked with any lady in particular.’
‘He has a mistress…’ Susannah blurted out and then blushed as her mama stared at her. ‘Forgive me. I should not have spoken of it, Mama. I know it was not proper, but I heard someone say that she was expensive.’
‘Such unfortunate ladies are to be pitied,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘If Lord Pendleton does have an arrangement of the kind—which is not unusual—I dare say he will end it at the proper time. I do not think he would do anything improper. I imagine if he thought of marriage, he would end any such arrangement, Susannah.’
‘No, I am sure he would not do anything improper,’ Susannah said and could not think why she felt disappointment. ‘It would be nice if Lord Pendleton proved to be less than perfect. It is very hard to live up to someone who is so particular.’
‘Oh, I dare say he has his faults,’ Mrs Hampton said with a smile. ‘Do not let the idea of a mistress worry you, my love. Whoever was speaking of it in your hearing was wrong to do so.’
‘Yes. I thought her a very silly girl.’ Susannah looked at her with interest. ‘You do not condemn him for it?’
‘No, I do not. Nor, if you are sensible, should you.’
‘I do not,’ Susannah said. In fact, she had decided that it made him seem less dull than she had first thought him. ‘And now, Mama—I have seen a picture of a gown I should like to have made for the dance Amelia is to give for me, if I may…’
Susannah frowned as she saw that Lord Pendleton was already at Lady Hamilton’s musical evening when they arrived. He was talking to a very pretty young lady, but he had noticed them and smiled, nodding in their direction. Susannah inclined her head. She accepted a glass of lemonade from one of the footmen circulating and wandered over to look at some particularly fine plants that her hostess had caused to be arranged by the deep bow windows. The view was over a particularly pleasant garden, and Susannah was admiring it when she became aware of someone at her shoulder. She turned, not in the least surprised to see the gentleman standing just behind her, for he usually sought her out at some time in the evening.
‘Good evening, Lord Pendleton,’ she said. He was looking extremely handsome that evening dressed in a fine blue coat with pearl-grey breeches that fitted him superbly. ‘I did not know you were coming this evening.’
‘I was not sure of it myself,’ Harry told her. ‘It is odd that we seem to meet almost everywhere, Miss Hampton—but delightful. Your presence enlivens many a dull affair.’
‘You flatter me, sir. I am a very ordinary girl.’
‘I would not call you that,’ Harry replied. ‘Indeed, I would say that you are far from ordinary, Miss Hampton. Are you looking forward to this entertainment? The tenor has an exceptional voice.’
‘I have heard that he is excellent,’ Susannah replied. ‘Do you enjoy music, sir? I like to play the pianoforte, though I am not an accomplished musician. I enjoy good singing, though I have little voice myself.’
‘Music is one of life’s true pleasures,’ Harry agreed. ‘Reading, poetry and good works of fiction are also very agreeable—do you not think so?’
‘Yes. Yes, I do,’ Susannah replied. They had not often spoken at such length and she warmed to him, for he was an intelligent man and seemed to think much as she did about such things. ‘I love to ride when I have a horse available and to walk in the country…’ A flush touched her cheeks—she had realised that she ought to be honest with him. ‘I believe I should tell you something, sir. When we met in company, it was not for the first time.’
‘Did you know me at once?’ Harry asked. ‘I did not place you until my return home later that evening. I must apologise for my behaviour that day, Miss Hampton. I was so shocked by the knowledge that| I might have killed you that I lost my temper. It was abominably rude of me.’
‘I think I was as much at fault,’ Susannah said, a flush in her cheeks. ‘I did hear something before I dashed across the road, but I thought I had time and I was not truly thinking—I had my head in the clouds, as Mama would say.’
‘You are a remarkable young lady,’ Harry told her. ‘However, you must allow me to bear the fault, for it was my damnable temper. I try to control it, but sometimes when I am much moved it escapes me.’
Susannah laughed, her eyes alight with amusement. ‘You speak of your temper as though it is a wild beast, sir.’
‘Exactly so,’ Harry replied, amused by her perception. She was refreshingly honest and utterly charming, and he was becoming more and more addicted to her company. ‘Perhaps we should take our places? I believe they are about to begin….’
He offered her his arm and they walked to an unoccupied sofa, sitting down next to her as the musicians began to play.
‘What do you think of the latest “rage”?’ Toby asked when he met his uncle outside White’s the following afternoon. Harry was leaving the gentleman’s club, Toby just arriving, having spent the previous night at a gaming hell where he had drunk a little too much, sleeping heavily that morning as a consequence. He grinned at his cousin. ‘Have you heard the rumour that you are in the petticoat line at last? At the moment they cannot decide between Miss Hamilton and Miss Hampton, though the delightful Susannah is thought to be slightly in the lead.’
Harry grimaced. ‘If you waste your time listening to gossip, you will never acquire the skills you need to join the Four-in-Hand. Had you forgotten our appointment this morning? I thought you wanted to drive my team to Richmond?’
‘Good grief!’ Toby smote his forehead with the palm of his hand. ‘It went right out of my head, Harry. I went to a gambling hell last night and drank a little too much and slept late this morning. I’m dashed sorry!’
‘So you should be,’ Harry told him with a severe look. ‘I dare say your pockets are to let this morning?’
‘It isn’t quite that bad,’ Toby said with a wry grimace. ‘Northaven did try to involve me in a high-rolling card game again last night, but I stuck to the dice with my friends and lost about five hundred to Jackson. It was a sum I could afford to lose, particularly as I won a thousand from Ravenshead the other evening.’
‘I am relieved to hear it,’ Harry said. ‘I do not wish to carp, Toby, but it can be very expensive in town if you play too deep. You will end up owing your tailor and everyone else bills you cannot pay if you are not careful. If the worst happens, you may apply to me, of course—but I should warn you that I shall take a dim view.’
‘I dare say I should be in trouble had I let myself be cajoled into playing with Northaven,’ Toby said. ‘I saw young Harlow sit down with them a few nights ago. He lost a fortune. I am not sure of the amount, but I know it was a great deal, for a crowd gathered about them at the last. When Harlow rose from the table he could not pay the whole immediately and his face was as white as a sheet.’
‘I imagine he will have to apply to his father for funds, and I do not know how General Harlow will pay,’ Harry said, looking thoughtful. ‘I know he has had some trouble himself with his investments. If the play was too deep, he may have to sell land to pay his son’s debts.’
General Harlow had served with Harry at one time on the Peninsula. Toby knew that his uncle liked and respected his neighbour.
‘Would you buy?’ he asked. ‘If he is forced to sell?’
‘If he truly wishes to sell,’ Harry replied. ‘I think I should post down to the country and have a word. It might be possible to arrange a loan to tide him over. I would not pay the young idiot’s gambling debt—that would encourage him to play deep again—but I may help his father. What passes between them regarding this is their own affair.’
Harry was a good friend in an emergency, as Toby knew well. He had told him the tale of Harlow’s downfall, knowing that he might wish to offer assistance to his neighbour. Although it was not generally known, Harry was one of the wealthiest men in England. His investments were always kept private, but Toby believed he had a finger in several pies and was not above being involved in trade if it would turn a profit. Naturally, he was too much the gentleman to discuss these things, but Toby had learned to read between the lines. He had not enquired into his uncle’s business, for it wasn’t done, but one day, after he’d had his fun, sown a few wild oats, he intended to ask Harry for a few pointers.
However, for the moment, he had something closer to his heart on his mind. ‘Have you spoken to Ravenshead about my becoming a member of the Four-in-Hand?’ he asked. He had held back from doing so himself, because he was relying on his uncle to do the business for him.
‘If you remember, that was the point of our drive this morning,’ Harry replied. ‘I am not able to make another arrangement for the time being, Toby, for I shall leave town this afternoon and may be away for a couple of days or so. However, we shall drive together when I get back. I believe Ravenshead means to stay in town for a while. He was undecided at the start and refused all invitations, but he told me that he thought he would attend a ball next week. If you prove yourself worthy, I may speak to him for you.’
Susannah paused outside the parlour door. She had returned home earlier from an expedition than expected and was about to join Amelia for tea when she heard voices and hesitated, uncertain whether or not to go in.
‘I am glad to see you, John,’ Amelia was saying. ‘Shall I ring for wine or tea? I am alone, as you see. My friends went out…’
‘Father was put out when you invited them to stay with you,’ John Royston answered in a frank tone that carried easily to Susannah’s ears even as she lifted her hand to knock. She hesitated as he continued, ‘I must tell you that I think Miss Hampton charming. If she had fifty thousand, I should join the queue of hopefuls, but I do not think she could afford me.’
‘Susannah has too much sense to marry a man who cares only for her fortune, though she has something,’ Amelia told him. ‘Are you in trouble again, John?’
Susannah hesitated, knowing she ought to leave, but her feet refused to move and she continued to listen.
‘Lord, no,’ he said. ‘I won a thousand from Carstairs last night, which will tide me over until next quarter if I am careful—which I shan’t be, of course. I wondered if you would speak to Father for me, Amelia?’
‘I have little influence with my brother,’ Amelia replied. ‘If you aren’t in debt, what is the matter?’
‘I have asked Father to buy me a pair of colours,’ John said. ‘He says I should settle down and take an interest in the estate, but he would hate it if I did. If I offered advice, he would soon tell me to take my nose out of his affairs. But he says he can’t afford to support me as an officer.’
‘Yes, he would,’ Amelia agreed. ‘Are you sure the army is for you?’
‘Father will live for years yet,’ John told her. ‘I have nothing but my allowance, which is barely enough to support the life I lead in town. I must either look for an heiress or take myself off for a few years. Of the two, I think I prefer life in the army.’
‘If I bought you the colours, and gave you an income of, say, two thousand a year, could you live within your means? Even in the army it is not cheap for an officer.’
At this point, Susannah decided that she had heard too much already and must either knock or move away. Just as she was deciding what to do, her mother called to her from the top of the stairs.
‘Are you waiting for me, my dear? Go in, Susannah. Amelia will send for tea and I am ready for mine.’
Susannah raised her hand, knocked and entered, feeling awkward. She was in time to see John Royston kiss his aunt’s cheek. He tucked something into his breast pocket, managing to look as if nothing unusual had happened.
‘Miss Hampton,’ he said and came to her, bowing elegantly. He took the hand she offered and kissed it. ‘I was just saying to Amelia that you are the toast of the town. I would offer my suit, but I have no fortune to recommend me.’
‘I would not accept a gentleman just for his fortune,’ Susannah replied, a little reserved. She was embarrassed at having heard something that ought to have remained private, feeling herself at fault for having listened. It was the second time she had done so and something she must correct! ‘I shall give my hand and heart only when I find love.’
‘Quite right too,’ he said, eyes twinkling. He was a handsome young man and Susannah thought him charming enough. However, it seemed that he had visited to ask for money, and she could not help thinking that Amelia was not well used by her family. Her nephew had been pleasant in his manner to his aunt, but there was sadness in Amelia’s eyes. Susannah felt her heart go out to her, for she sensed that she was hiding some deep hurt. She glanced at the young man as he continued, ‘Well, I shall go and leave you ladies to enjoy a good gossip about me….’
‘Do not flatter yourself, John,’ Amelia said drily. ‘I assure you that we have far more of interest than your escapades.’
He grinned and went out, leaving them together. Susannah glanced at Amelia.
‘I realised that you had company and did not wish to intrude…’
‘Thank you, Susannah. My nephew came to me for help, which I gave freely. John is a charmer—as unlike his father as it is possible to be. I have promised to buy him a pair of colours. I think he will do well in the army. It could be the making of him.’
‘What a fine thing to do for him,’ Mrs Hampton said approvingly as she came in, in time to hear Amelia’s remark. ‘It could well be the making of him, as you say, Amelia. I knew you were considering what would be best for him, for you have said as much to me. If he truly wishes for an army life it will suit him, and life in town is the ruin of many a young man.’
‘Yes, I think it will suit John, which is why I was happy to oblige him,’ Amelia agreed and smiled at Susannah. ‘You are back a little earlier from your walk than I expected.’
‘It came on to rain and we thought we might as well come back for tea.’
‘I am happy that you did, because I am feeling a little low.’ Amelia glanced at Susannah. ‘Nothing to do with my nephew’s visit—another matter entirely. Something happened when I visited the library…’ She paused and that odd sadness was in her eyes. ‘I thought I saw someone—a ghost from the past—and it brought back memories.’
‘I am sorry if it made you sad,’ Susannah said. ‘I do not like to think of anyone hurting you. You are such a lovely person…’ She blushed, afraid she had said too much, but Amelia laughed and shook her head.
‘You are a sweet girl, Susannah. I love both you and Margaret dearly, and so I shall tell you that I once thought to marry, but the marriage was not permitted and he went away. I caught a brief glimpse of someone I thought might be the gentleman I once wished to marry, but it was probably not he. Besides, it was some years ago and I have put it all behind me.’ Her eyes rested on Susannah. ‘I did not wish you to imagine it was John who upset me, for I was happy to see him.’
Susannah blushed, her eyes dropping as Amelia turned away to ring for tea. She thought that Amelia was gently reprimanding her for eavesdropping again, and indeed it was very bad of her. She must not do it again, but it was so very tempting when one heard one’s own name.
‘Well, my dear,’ Mrs Hampton said, ‘you are much admired, you know, Amelia. I am perfectly certain you could marry if you wished. After all, you may please yourself now.’
‘Like Susannah, I would marry only if I could both love and respect the gentleman,’ Amelia said, but there was such a wistful look in her eyes that Susannah suspected she was still in love with the gentleman she had been denied—even if she would not admit it to herself.
Harry was thoughtful as he left town that afternoon. He would not have expected the gossips to latch on to his interest in Miss Hampton that quickly. He thought that he had been careful to show no particular interest in her in public, though he had spent much of the previous evening at her side. It must have been remarked, which was a nuisance—he had not meant to draw the attention of the gossipmongers just yet. He had been watching Susannah as she settled into her niche as the latest rage. Her vivacity was what set her apart from the crowd. She was clearly a girl of spirit and took to any new suggestions eagerly, showing her appreciation. He thought perhaps she might be a little reckless at times, but she would surely grow out of it—and he did find her charming company.
However, as yet Harry had not truly thought of marriage, even though Anne had been urging it on him for the past couple of years. If he were to consider the idea, Susannah Hampton might be the kind of girl he would wish to make his wife; she was certainly suitable and he liked her. For the moment he had no such intention and must be scrupulous—he would not wish to cause gossip that would affect her good name. He was therefore pleased with an excuse to leave town for a day or two. It would give him a chance for some quiet reflection, and he wanted to speak to General Harlow.
His neighbour was a proud gentleman and Harry would need to think of a scheme whereby he could help him without appearing to offer charity.
Chapter Three
Susannah glanced round the ballroom. Most of the dances she had attended so far had been modest affairs. This was the first large ball she had been invited to and it was a glittering event. Magnificent chandeliers shed their light on the assembled company, picking up the sparkle of jewels around the throats of the ladies and in the gentlemen’s cravats. The wealthiest members of society had gathered at the Duke and Duchess of Morland’s grand affair, their laughter and chatter making such a noise that it was difficult to hear one another speak. From a room further on, Susannah could hear the faint strains of music, but the receptions rooms were so crowded that it was almost impossible to progress, especially as people kept stopping them.
It must have been at least twenty minutes later that they finally arrived at the ballroom itself, which was so magnificent that it took Susannah’s breath away. The floor had been polished so hard that it looked smooth and glossy, great glittering chandeliers of glass lit by hundreds of candles overhead as the dancers moved gracefully to the music. Banks of flowers had been arranged at the foot of the dais and the scent of the blooms was so heavy that it was almost stifling.
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Anne Herries
Lord Pendleton’s Society Wife In her first season in London, country girl Susannah Hampton is confused by the attentions of the dashing Lord Pendleton. Wealthy, but undeniably arrogant, he is certainly not the kind of husband she had in mind. Although she can’t help but find him attractive.Soon Susannah gets what she hopes for – a marriage proposal! She may be an innocent country miss, but now Susannah is determined to inflame her husband’s passion – and melt the ice around his heart…Debutantes enjoy the delights of A Season in Town
Susannah could not help wishingthat she and Harry might havehad a little time together before allhis relatives arrived.
She was trying to accustom herself to the idea that she was engaged to a man she loved—a man she was not sure felt quite the same about her. She knew that Harry felt something for her, but most marriages were arranged for reasons other than love, and she could not yet be certain that she was loved as she would wish to be—to distraction.
Anne Herries, winner of the Romantic Novelists’ Association ROMANCE PRIZE 2004, lives in Cambridgeshire. She is fond of watching wildlife, and spoils the birds and squirrels that are frequent visitors to her garden. Anne loves to write about the beauty of nature, and sometimes puts a little into her books, although they are mostly about love and romance. She writes for her own enjoyment, and to give pleasure to her readers.
Recent novels by the same author:
A DAMNABLE ROGUE*
MARIANNE AND THE MARQUIS
MARRIED BY CHRISTMAS
MARRYING CAPTAIN JACK
THE UNKNOWN HEIR
THE HOMELESS HEIRESS
THE RAKE’S REBELLIOUS LADY
*Winner of the Romantic Novelists’ AssociationROMANCE PRIZE
and in the Regency seriesThe Steepwood Scandal:
LORD RAVENSDEN’S MARRIAGE
COUNTERFEIT EARL
and in The Hellfire Mysteries :
AN IMPROPER COMPANION
A WEALTHY WIDOW
A WORTHY GENTLEMAN
Author Note
Writing for Harlequin Mills & Boon is a constant joy. A Season in Town, Book One, is about Susannah and Lord Pendleton. Susannah never expected to have a season, because her mama could not afford it. However, Amelia Royston has inherited a fortune, and she wants to spend some of it on young women in less happy circumstances than herself. Susannah is flattered by the attentions of the dashing Lord Pendleton, but overawed by the prospect of becoming the wife of such an important man.
Beneath the story runs a thread of intrigue that continues throughout all three books in this trilogy and may threaten Amelia herself. Look out for Harry and his friends in the next two.
A COUNTRY MISS IN
HANOVER SQUARE
Anne Herries
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
This book is dedicated to
the memory of my mother, who once told me
my books would be enjoyed by hundreds of thousands
of people worldwide.
I laughed, Mum, but you were right!
Prologue
The Spanish Peninsula—1812
Three men lay slumped on the earth, which had been baked hard by the fierce Spanish sun. Harry Pendleton had his back against a rock. Of the three he was in the best shape. Max Coleridge was lying with his eyes closed, his blood-soaked shirt stuck to his chest in this damned awful heat. Gerard Ravenshead was fanning Max with a large leaf, trying to keep the flies from settling on his wound. A neckcloth was wound around a deep cut at the side of Gerard’s head.
‘I thought we were done for,’ Harry said. He was speaking his thoughts aloud, saying what they all felt. ‘What a mess!’
‘You can’t blame yourself for it, Harry,’ Gerard said and looked at him. ‘They knew we were coming. Someone must have warned them.’
‘Ten killed, and the three of us only got out by the skin of our teeth.’ Harry stood up and walked over to take a look at Max. ‘Somehow they must have got wind that we planned a surprise raid to take prisoners…’
‘One of the servants,’ Gerard replied and shrugged. ‘In this damned war I’m never sure whether we are fighting the French with the Spanish or the Spanish and the French.’
‘I wouldn’t trust their generals as far as I could throw them,’ Harry growled. He looked at the blood trickling down Gerard’s face. They had wrapped a kerchief round his head, but it wasn’t doing much good. ‘Your wound is still bleeding. Do you want me to take another look at it?’
‘You saved my life once today,’ Gerard said and grinned at him. ‘You don’t have to nursemaid me, Harry. I’ll manage. We have to get Max back to the village, and by the looks of him that means carrying him between us.’
Harry pulled a wry face. ‘The way you’ve been behaving out here, I’ve sometimes felt as if you meant to throw your life away…’ Gerard had gained a reputation as something of a daredevil.
‘There were moments when I didn’t much care if I died,’ Gerard admitted. He took a swipe at a fly buzzing about his face. ‘But when you’re facing death things come into perspective. I intend to live and return home and one day….’
Gerard left the sentence unfinished. Harry nodded. He knew something had been eating at his friend. He suspected it was to do with a young woman Gerard had been courting—and the tiny scar at his temple that he’d noticed when they first met in Spain after a year of not seeing one another. Gerard often rubbed at it when he was thoughtful, and the look in his eyes told Harry he was remembering something that made him angry.
‘I know what you mean,’ Harry said. ‘Soldiering is blood, sweat and tears—and that is the easy part.’ It was listening to the screams of dying men and knowing you couldn’t save them that hurt the worst. ‘Come on, then. Help me get Max on my back and I’ll carry him.’
‘I can walk…’ Max mumbled. ‘Just give me a hand up….’
‘Don’t be a damned fool,’ Harry replied. ‘You’ll be carried as far as we can make it. When we get near the village, Gerard will fetch help.’
‘I could walk with help.’ Max’s face set stubbornly as he attempted to rise. ‘Damn you, Harry. I’m not a baby….’
‘But I’m the superior officer here, so you will do as you’re told,’ Harry muttered. He grinned at Gerard. ‘There’s one thing, we’re bound for life by this day’s experience. It’s something none of us will forget—and if any one of us can help the other in future, we will….’
Max grunted as they hauled him to his feet, and Harry took him over his shoulder. Gerard nodded, his eyes hard but appreciative of his friend’s stubborn determination to take on the burden. He wasn’t sure he could have done it himself, though he would have tried.
‘Comrades in war and peace,’ he said. ‘Let’s get back. My head is fit to burst and Max needs attention….’
Chapter One
England—1816
Harry Pendleton saw the girl run across the narrow country road seconds before he pulled on the reins, bringing his horses to an abrupt halt. Jangling harness, the sound of snorting horses and the curses of his groom took Harry’s attention for a moment as he fought to control the startled beasts. They were not used to being so roughly used! Harry cursed loudly. Another second and he would have knocked the girl down! His heart had been in his mouth for an instant—and it had done his horses little good to have their mouths sawed at in that way!
‘What on earth do you think you were doing?’ he thundered, tossing the reins to his groom and jumping down to confront her. He hardly noticed her pale face or trembling hands. ‘That was a damned stupid thing to do! I could have killed you!’
‘Had you not been driving so carelessly, it would not have happened,’ the girl retorted, eyes flashing. She tossed her long hair, giving him a look filled with contempt. ‘These country roads are not made for such haste, sir. I had no idea that you would suddenly come round that corner like a bat driven out of hell….’
‘You must have heard the sound of my wheels,’ Harry retorted, though he knew that she had some right on her side. ‘What on earth possessed you to dash across the road in that way?’
‘I saw some primroses I wanted,’ the girl replied. ‘This is a quiet road, sir. No one ever drives the way you were driving.’
‘Possibly because they are none of them able,’ Harry retorted. Even as he spoke he realised that he sounded petulant and arrogant, which was far from his nature. ‘You should be more careful when crossing the road near bends in the road, miss…’ Harry belatedly became aware that she was rather lovely. Her hair had been tossed by the wind and looked like spun gold, and her eyes were so clear that a man might drown in them. He found himself staring like an idiot. ‘Forgive me, I do not know your name.’
‘Nor shall you,’ the girl replied, giving him a haughty stare. ‘Sir, I find you arrogant and rude and I shall say good day to you.’
Stunned, Harry watched as she ran from him, scrambled over a stile at the side of the road and set off swiftly across the fields. He came to himself in that instant, realising that he had handled the situation badly.
‘I am sorry…’ he called after her. ‘I was anxious because I might have killed you. I did not mean to be so harsh.’
The girl did not falter or look back. Harry continued to watch her for a few moments, then he shook his head and climbed back to the driving box. His damnable temper had let him down. It was not often he lost it, but for some reason he had done so this morning. Instead of shouting at her, he should have made sure that she was none the worse for her fright. For a moment he was tempted to go after her, but he was in a hurry; he had promised to meet his friends at a mill held locally at a certain time and was already late. He frowned as he began to drive at a slightly more sedate pace. It was obvious the girl was unharmed, but he had not made the proper enquiries. He ought at least to have asked if she needed his assistance, though it was self-evident that she did not.
A little smile touched his mouth. She had answered him with spirit. Clearly she had not suffered an irritation of the nerves, as most of the young ladies in town might have, had they been subject to such a display of bad manners from a man who was generally considered to be one of the politest men in society. However, from the look of her clothes and the way she had been roaming the countryside without a hat or a companion, she was just a country girl—possibly the daughter of the local vicar. It was unlikely he would ever see her again, and, while he felt a certain regret, the incident was soon pushed to a distant corner of his mind.
Susannah stopped running when she was out of breath. What a bad-tempered man the driver of that phaeton had been! Had he been a little more considerate, a little caring in his manner, she would have apologised, for she knew herself to be partly at fault. However, he had come round the bend at such a pace that it was a wonder he had managed to stop at all. She was fortunate that she had not been trampled beneath his horses’ hooves. If she had not felt so startled, she might have admired the way he handled his horses, which were clearly high spirited. However, the way he had shouted at her had put all thought of apology from her mind.
Frowning, Susannah sat down on a fallen log to recover her composure before going home. As her nerves ceased tingling, she suddenly saw the amusing side of the affair and laughed. It had been quite an adventure, and she had often longed for something of the sort. However, in her dreams the gentleman would smile and speak softly, making her heart beat faster. Her heart had indeed slammed against her chest, but from fright rather than pleasure. Now that she had begun to feel calmer, she remembered that he had been rather handsome—if you liked arrogant, rude men! She tossed her head and put the incident from her mind as she approached the cottage they had taken after poor Papa died. She must hurry; she had been out a long time and her mama would be looking for her.
Susannah walked into the cottage, carrying a basket of herbs and wildflowers she had picked in the hedgerow. Her fine gold hair had blown all over the place and her cheeks were pink from the fresh air. She looked beautiful, if untidy, and not quite the proper young lady. Her looks were misleading—she had been taught her manners and was in truth a well-behaved girl, though spirited and inclined to be reckless at times. She took her precious finds into the large kitchen, setting them down on the scrubbed pine table. The smell of baking was everywhere, tantalising and tempting. She felt hungry, her mouth watering at the thought of such a treat. Her hand was reaching towards a plate of cakes that were still cooling when Maisie walked in. Maisie had once been her nurse, and now she kept house for Mrs Hampton, turning her hand to anything that needed doing, because they could no longer afford the luxury of servants.
‘Now then, Miss Susannah,’ the woman grumbled. ‘You leave them cakes alone. Your mama has the Vicar and some friends coming for tea this afternoon, and I’ve used the last of the butter. At least there’s none to spare for more baking.’
‘Can’t I have just one?’ Susannah pleaded, her stomach rumbling with hunger. ‘I haven’t eaten since first thing this morning.’
‘You should have been here for your luncheon instead of wandering about the countryside like a hoyden.’ Maisie looked at her with disapproval, which masked the deep affection between them. ‘Go and change your gown before anyone sees you. It will be time for tea in an hour or so. You can wait until then.’
‘I’m hungry now,’ Susannah said and snatched a warm and chewy oat biscuit, fleeing from the kitchen with Maisie’s scolding ringing in her ears.
She sighed as she went upstairs to change out of the old gown she had worn for her walk. She had managed to get grass stains on the hem again, and there was a small rent where she had caught it on some briars, so it was a good thing she had chosen this gown. It was important to conserve her best things for special occasions these days. They had just enough money to live on and pay Maisie her meagre wage, but Susannah had no idea what they would do when they needed new clothes.
Everything had changed after her father died, for he had lost his estate by making unwise investments and at the gaming tables. Mama had a little money of her own, which she had inherited from her father, but the income was scarcely enough to keep them.
‘I do not know what to do, Susannah,’ her mother had told her when they moved from their comfortable house to this modest cottage. It had seemed bare and poor compared to the comfortable house they had been forced to leave, but somehow they had managed to turn it into a home. ‘If I release what little capital I have, we could afford a Season in town for you, but then we should have nothing left.’
‘And if I did not take, you would have given up your living for nothing,’ Susannah said. She was a good-natured girl and had accepted their downfall into poverty with good grace. ‘No, Mama. We shall manage as best we can. Perhaps I shall meet someone—a prince!—who will love me for myself and carry me off to his castle. I shall have jewels and beautiful clothes, and you will never have to worry again.’ Her smile was unconsciously wistful.
Mrs Hampton shook her head sadly at her daughter’s flight of fancy. ‘You are very pretty, my darling, but things do not often happen that way. I dare say someone will offer for you, but he may not be to your liking.’
‘You are thinking of Squire Horton, I suppose.’ Susannah pulled a face, for the Squire was past forty, a generous kind gentleman, who had buried two wives and had a brood of boisterous children. She appreciated his qualities, but found him rather large and a little too dull for her quick mind.
She flicked her long, honey-coloured hair back out of her eyes. It was always escaping from its ribbons and curling in tendrils about her face. She presented a charming picture, for she was truly beautiful, but she seldom considered her looks, though she knew she was pretty because everyone told her so. However, it had not turned her head, and she was generally popular with both the gentlemen and the ladies she met. Unfortunately, situated as they were, she met very few gentlemen that either she or her mama considered a suitable match. ‘Well, if nothing else turns up, I may be forced to such a marriage, Mama—but it is not yet too late for something exciting to happen.’
Susannah lived in the expectation of something exciting happening. She would meet a handsome man, not necessarily a prince, of course, but rich enough to keep both her and Mama in comfort. He would sweep her up on his horse and ride off with her to Gretna Green, where they would be married and live happily ever after, preferably in an ancient castle. Failing that, perhaps a relative they had never heard of would leave them a fortune. Mama said they had no rich relatives, but perhaps there was someone somewhere who might be kind to them.
Her biscuit finished, Susannah applied her mind to the little tea party her mother had planned for friends. She changed her old gown for a favourite primrose-silk afternoon dress and brushed her hair into order, tying it back with white ribbons. A white stole draped over her arms and she was instantly transformed from the hoyden, who had been traipsing the fields to find herbs her mama might use to make lotions and seasonings, into a young lady of some considerable style and beauty.
Susannah had an English rose complexion and sea-green eyes, her mouth soft and attractive. It was the kind of mouth gentlemen found irresistible and wanted to kiss, but she had not yet been brought out into society and could not guess at what might happen if she were. She sighed as she looked at her reflection in the dressing mirror. It was true that she was not ill favoured. If only they could afford a Season in town without ruining Mama! Surely then she could make a good marriage and rescue her beloved mother from the genteel poverty in which they now lived. Susannah did not care so very much for herself that they lived in a tiny cottage, but Mama had found it hard.
With an effort she banished her dreams of romantic love and handsome gentlemen who would beg for her favours. Mama was right: these things did not often happen. She might have to marry one of the gentlemen who called on Mama with gifts of fruit and vegetables from their gardens and looked at Susannah slyly whenever they got the chance, but she would not if she could help it!
She was about to go downstairs to the parlour when her bedroom door opened abruptly and her mother swept in. Wearing a gown of grey silk, Mrs Hampton was still an attractive woman, her colouring much as her daughter’s, but she often had an air of sadness, which, her daughter noticed, seemed to have vanished for the moment. Susannah had not seen her mother this animated since Papa fell into a decline after losing all his money and died of a putrid infection some nine months earlier.
‘Mama! What has happened?’ Susannah’s heart raced with anticipation, for she sensed her mother’s excitement. ‘You have news.’
Mrs Hampton waved a sheet of quality vellum at her. ‘I have had a letter from Amelia Royston. You must remember that we met her once in Bath? She was visiting with her sister-in-law, Lady Royston. I felt so sorry for her having to live with that harpy. Her brother is a gentleman, of course, but I am not sure that I like him…’ Mrs Hampton looked pensive, for her friend had not said much about her circumstances, but she had sensed her deep unhappiness at the time. ‘Well, as you may recall, I asked her to a party and took her to a dance at the Assembly Rooms. She fell into a habit of visiting us every day, and we have kept in touch ever since through letters. I remember she was so grateful for my kindness…it was before Papa—’ She broke off with a little choke, the sadness back in her eyes. ‘Anyway, she went to live with an elderly aunt soon after that and everything has turned out most fortunately for her.’
‘Yes, I remember Miss Royston,’ Susannah said. ‘What does she say in her letter, Mama?’
‘It is like a miracle,’ Mrs Hampton said and the light came back to her face. ‘Amelia’s aunt—Lady Agatha Sawle, I met her once, but you did not know her—well, she has died and left Amelia a fortune. She did not expect it. Indeed, she had no idea that her aunt was so wealthy. She knew she was to have something, but she says she had no expectation of being left more than an independence.’
‘How wonderful for her,’ Susannah said, her lovely eyes sparkling. ‘You see, Mama, exciting things do happen. Perhaps someone will leave us something one day.’
‘Amelia is so generous,’ her mother said and dabbed at her eyes with a lace kerchief. The scent of her favourite lavender water wafted towards Susannah. ‘She has offered you a Season in town, dearest. She knows of Papa’s misfortune and she wants to help us. She will pay all our expenses and give you a dowry of five thousand pounds. Five thousand pounds, Susannah! Such a huge sum—and she makes it sound nothing! It means you have a chance of making a decent marriage, my love.’ Mrs Hampton was quite overcome. Her hand trembled as she touched Susannah’s arm. ‘I can hardly believe that anyone would do such a thing, for we are not even family. However, that may be—’ She broke off mid-sentence. ‘Do you realise what this means, dearest?’
‘A Season in town…’ Susannah stared at her, disbelief, excitement and triumph warring in her head. ‘Oh, Mama, how good Miss Royston is! But what made her think of us?’
Mrs Hampton shook her head. ‘I really cannot imagine why she thought of us. She said it was because I was kind to her at a time when she needed friends, but I think she has other reasons.’ Susannah lifted her brows in enquiry, but Mrs Hampton merely frowned, clearly preferring to keep her own counsel. ‘I cannot tell, but I think she may be lonely. Her family is not kind, though she never complains. However, one knows…’ She looked thoughtful. ‘To give us so much is extremely generous, Susannah. I know one should not take charity, and I should not normally do so, but it is just what I have prayed for, my love. You deserve your chance and, if we are lucky, we may be able to repay Amelia for her kindness one day. Think of it, my love. You will meet everyone—Amelia is well connected and highly thought of in society. If you are fortunate…who knows what might happen!’
Susannah nodded, her face thoughtful as she looked at her mother. Some of the euphoria faded as she realised that Mama was expecting her to make a brilliant marriage and solve all their problems. She would be happy if that happened, of course, but she could not easily relinquish all her dreams of romance. She wanted to oblige Mama, but she also wanted to be swept off her feet, to fall madly in love. For some reason the picture of the outraged gentleman who had almost run her down flashed into her mind, though she could not think why—he had been abominably rude!
However, her overwhelming feeling was one of pleasure at the thought of her Season in town. It was what she had longed for, hoped for these past months since Papa died. If she were fortunate she would fall in love with a suitable gentleman, one who made her heart beat much faster, but who was also acceptable to Mama. Someone who might look a little like the rude gentleman she had met in the lane, but who was far more romantic!
‘I do not understand why Miss Royston is being so very kind to us,’ Mrs Hampton was saying. ‘But I shall write at once and tell her we are delighted to accept her generous invitation. She has asked us to join her at her house near Huntingdon next week so that we may all get to know one another in comfort. Then we shall journey to London together. She is sending her own carriage to fetch us.’
‘That is very thoughtful of her,’ Susannah said. She frowned as something occurred to her. ‘What shall we do for clothes, Mama?’
‘That is all taken care of,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘Amelia says we must not worry about anything, for we may use her seamstress in town and send the bills to her!’
‘Mama! She will buy my clothes as well?’ Susannah looked at her mother in awe as she inclined her head, feeling overwhelmed. ‘She must be very rich. It is beyond all expectation.’
‘Yes, my dearest, I imagine she is very wealthy now, but she knows what it is to live on a small income, and to be treated ill by one’s relations. I think that is why she has taken it into her head to help us.’
Susannah nodded. Her mother’s friend was being extraordinarily kind to them. They could not have expected anything of the sort and it was a wonderful surprise. She could not wait for her adventure to begin! However, the next few days would fly by—she must get out all her clothes and see what could be done with them. Some of them could surely be refurbished with fresh ribbons. It would not do to impose on Miss Royston’s generosity more than was absolutely necessary!
She was smiling as she joined her mother’s tea party that afternoon, unconsciously practising her society manners. Soon now she would have the chance to shine in society drawing rooms—and who knew what might happen then! Dreams did come true sometimes, it seemed, for just an hour ago her hopes of a Season in town had been just that…
Susannah looked towards the house as a groom opened the carriage door and helped her down. It was a pleasant L-shaped country residence built of yellowish stone with an imposing front door and leaded windows. However, it was no larger than Papa’s house had been, modest by country-house standards, but the gardens were particularly beautiful and there were some graceful old trees. She thought that she would very much like to explore the garden at the earliest opportunity.
Susannah followed her mother into the front hall, smiling at a young maid who came to assist her. Mrs Hampton was speaking to a lady Susannah suspected must be Miss Royston’s housekeeper.
‘Miss Royston apologises for the delay in greeting you, Mrs Hampton,’ the woman said. ‘If you will allow me to take you upstairs to your rooms, she will be with you shortly. An unexpected visitor arrived just a few minutes ago…’
‘Yes, of course. It is no matter,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘Come along, Susannah.’
Susannah hesitated. ‘Mama—do you think I might take a little stroll in the gardens? I shall be only a few minutes, but they are rather lovely. Would Miss Royston mind, do you think?’ She threw an appealing look at the housekeeper.
‘Miss Royston is a keen gardener. She has taken great pride in them since she came to live here,’ the housekeeper said and smiled at her. ‘You take a little stroll, miss. Riding in a carriage is so confining. If you stay close to the house, I can call you when Miss Royston is ready to receive you.’
‘Very well, you may go,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘But do not go off on one of your long walks, for that would be very rude.’
‘No, Mama. I shall just wander as far as the rose arbour and back.’
Susannah went back towards the front door, which was opened for her by an obliging footman. She gave him a bright smile, feeling delighted to have a few moments of freedom before meeting her hostess.
When the carriage had stopped at the front of the house, she had caught sight of the rose garden. The bushes were well tended and growing lustily, though it was too early in the year for them to be at their best, of course. In another month or so this garden would be a riot of colour and she imagined the scent of roses would reach the house. Besides the roses there were wide beds of lavender, peonies and other perennial flowers. Miss Royston must spend a deal of her time in her garden; it was clearly well planned.
Susannah hesitated as she approached the rose arbour and heard a raised voice. The fencing had hidden the fact that there was anyone there; she was about to turn away when she heard her mother’s name.
‘Margaret Hampton is a good friend of mine. I made the offer, Michael. Nothing was asked of me, I assure you. I will not allow you to say such terrible things. Margaret and Susannah are not hangers-on. Nor will they take advantage of my good nature.’
‘You are a fool, Amelia,’ a man’s voice answered sharply. ‘Upon my word, I do not understand you! You refuse to make your home with Louisa and myself—and you open your home to strangers….’
‘I have told you that I shall never live under the same roof as Louisa again, Michael. Your wife does not like me. She never has and she never will.’
‘You were pleased enough to take advantage of my generosity before you inherited a fortune,’ the man snapped back irritably. ‘If Agatha had left it to me, with an income for you—as any sensible woman would!—none of this would have occurred. She might have known that you would not know how to protect yourself.’
‘If Aunt Agatha had wished to leave her money to you, she would have done so,’ Amelia replied, her voice calm but with an underlying anger. ‘She told me that she had done all she intended to do for you or your sons. We share the same father, Michael, but it was my mother of whom Aunt Agatha was so fond.’
‘I dare say, but Agatha was Father’s aunt and I am as entitled as you, Amelia. I did not fight the will; it would cause a scandal, and I dislike that of all things, as you know. However, you could have put things right. You could help your cousins, at least.’
‘I may do so in time if I feel they deserve it,’ Amelia said. ‘However, that is a matter for me. You may not command me and I shall not be bullied into…’
Susannah jumped guiltily as she heard a twig snap underfoot and realised that she had been eavesdropping. She moved away quickly, turning back the way she had come, running now because she believed that someone was leaving the shelter of the rose arbour and she did not wish to be seen.
Susannah was overcome with embarrassment and shame. She had overheard what was clearly an argument between Miss Royston and—she presumed, for she had heard the name—Sir Michael, Miss Royston’s brother. What a revealing argument! She would not have listened if she had not heard Mama’s name, but she had wanted to know what was being said and could not leave when what she heard was so very shocking. Poor Miss Royston! Mama was right to suspect that she had been bullied and made unhappy by her family. It was not surprising to Susannah that she did not wish to live with them ever again.
Susannah stood at the front of the house, looking back at the tree-lined avenue, composing her thoughts. It was uncomfortable to know that Miss Royston’s brother had been warning her of hangers-on. Had she heard only that, Susannah might have begged her mama to take her home at once, but she had heard Miss Royston’s spirited defence of her friends—and she was quite certain that Sir Michael was merely angry because he wanted his sister’s fortune for himself! What a truly unpleasant man he must be to speak to his sister in that tone!
Having made up her mind that she would not let what she had overheard spoil her pleasure in the coming visit to town, she turned towards the house just as the front door opened. The housekeeper beckoned and Susannah ran towards her.
‘Miss Royston has comein now, miss. Your mama is ready to join in her the small parlour and I thought you would like to be there too.’
‘Oh, thank you,’ Susannah said. ‘I hope I have not kept her waiting?’
‘Miss Royston would not trouble if you had,’ the housekeeper said. ‘She is too good natured, miss—but you have not, for I cannot think you went far.’
‘Just a short wander towards the rose arbour,’ Susannah said, a faint blush in her cheeks. ‘Does Miss Royston have many visitors, ma’am?’
‘She has been living quietly since Lady Agatha Sawle’s death, though she entertains now and then… just friends of her aunt…’
‘Does her family visit often?’
‘No, miss, they do not.’ The housekeeper’s mouth pulled into a prim line. ‘Miss Royston has talked of your visit for days. I can’t say when I’ve seen her so pleased with life…’ She smiled at Susannah. ‘Here is your mama, waiting for you. Miss Royston is in the front parlour.’
Mrs Hampton looked at her daughter. ‘Well, dearest—are you ready?’ She looked expectant as the housekeeper knocked, opened the door and then announced them.
Susannah looked past her and saw a woman standing by the window. She had her back to them, but turned as her housekeeper spoke, a smile on her face. Had she not overheard the quarrel, Susannah might have missed the telltale signs of distress. Her mother saw nothing, moving towards Miss Royston eagerly.
Susannah hung back a little, watching.
‘Amelia, my dear friend,’ Mrs Hampton greeted her with an embrace and a kiss. ‘I cannot express how grateful I am for all you are doing for us!’
‘I explained in my letter that you will be doing me a favour,’ Amelia said and smiled in welcome. ‘I do not wish to stay in town with my sister-in-law, and I cannot stay alone. As yet, I have not thought of taking a companion. Besides, it is so much nicer to have friends, is it not? Once we are invited out, we shall meet all our acquaintances, but it will be more comfortable for us to attend the various affairs together, do you not think so?’
Listening, Susannah realised how true Amelia’s words were. She had felt that they were very obliged to Miss Royston for her invitation, as of course they were, but what she had overheard in the garden had brought home how very uncomfortable Miss Royston must have been in her brother’s home. His angry tone, the unkindness in his words, were hurtful, and she could imagine that Miss Royston had had much to bear in the past from her family. The knowledge made her angry that anyone could be so unkind to their own sister, and it made her wish to protect and help Miss Royston.
‘Yes, much more comfortable to have a friend,’ Mrs Hampton was assuring her as Susannah’s eyes wandered round the room. It was a large room, furnished with important, dark mahogany pieces. Comfortable rather than fashionably elegant. ‘You are looking very well, Amelia. I see you are wearing grey. I myself have put on my lilac for the first time today. Shall you go into colours once we are in town?’
‘I think grey and lilac would be suitable, and perhaps some dark colours as the weeks pass,’ Amelia said. ‘I have only just put off my blacks, but I shall wear colours again soon. Aunt Agatha would not expect me to wear black for ever. Indeed, I doubt she wished it at all, but in the circumstances I thought it right to show respect. She has been so very generous to me. I knew she intended to leave me something, but I had no idea how much that would be.’
‘Well, I am sure you deserved it,’ Mrs Hampton said with a look of warm approval. She turned towards Susannah, beckoning her. ‘Come forward, my love. You remember Miss Royston, of course.’
Susannah made an elegant curtsy, smiling a little shyly. ‘Yes, I do remember Miss Royston. It is exceedingly kind of you to invite us to stay with you in town, ma’am. I do not know how to thank you—for everything. If you are certain you wish to do so much…’ She had to ask, since she had heard what Sir Michael thought of her and Mama, but there was no hesitation in Miss Royston’s response.
‘You may thank me by being happy,’ Amelia told her with a look of such warmth that Susannah’s last reservation fled. ‘I knew that you must be finding things difficult since your terrible loss, and I wanted to help a little if I could. Besides, as I told your mama, I wish for friends to stay with me in town. You are doing me a great favour by agreeing to accompany me to town.’
‘I think you are very kind, ma’am,’ Susannah said, glowing with pleasure. Miss Royston was so exact in her manners and did not make one feel one was receiving charity at all. She had been a little nervous of meeting her, especially after hearing the argument—but her charm banished all Susannah’s doubts. ‘It is so exciting. I can hardly wait!’
‘Once it is known we are in town, I am sure we shall be invited everywhere,’ Amelia went on. ‘You will make many new friends and I dare say you will be one of the prettiest girls of the Season—if not the prettiest!’
Susannah blushed and shook her head. She thought Miss Royston was beautiful with her reddish toned hair and green eyes, though she would not have dreamed of saying as much to her face. For a wealthy woman, her attire was modest. Although still in mourning, Amelia was wearing a stylish gown that owed everything to good taste and nothing to ostentation. Indeed, the only jewellery she wore was a small but pretty gold-and-pearl brooch pinned to the bodice of her gown.
Susannah remembered that she had thought Miss Royston had been a little quiet when they met in Bath, though she knew that their friend had possessed a lovely smile. She had not smiled often then, which was hardly to be wondered at in her situation! She could have had nothing to smile about living in her brother’s house, for he was undoubtedly a bully.
‘Come and have tea,’ Amelia said and indicated that they should sit. ‘You must wish for some refreshment after your journey. I am sorry that I had to keep you waiting. My brother came unexpectedly to call…’ A look of anger and distress passed fleetingly across her face, but was gone so quickly that it might never have been there.
Susannah glanced around the large, square room. The décor was all in varying shades of green and cream, soft muted colours that gave it a feeling of comfort and ease. She thought that the curtains had not been changed in an age, but liked the homely feeling that prevailed. The room had an atmosphere of having been lived in happily for some years: a book lay on a table, a sewing basket stood by a comfortable elbow chair, and the pianoforte had a well-loved shine that seemed to indicate it was often used. A pretty Canterbury held sheets of music that had been much handled.
Amelia rang the bell and almost immediately a butler brought in a large silver tray displaying a handsome set of plain silver. A maid followed and set up the stand so that he could deposit his burden and another maid brought in an arrangement of dainty cakes and biscuits that she set on an occasional table.
As the tea was poured and Susannah got up to hand a cup to her mama, she observed that Miss Royston seemed more in command of her situation than before, which was understandable. In the past she had been obliged to consult her sister-in-law before making plans. Now she was free to do as she pleased, and it seemed she was full of plans for the coming Season.
‘I have written to one or two friends, telling them of the date I intend to be in town,’ Amelia said. ‘We already have several invitations to dine, and I am certain there will be many more. I shall give a dinner the first week we are in town and I thought we might have a little dance for Susannah once she has made friends.’
‘Oh, Miss Royston,’ Susannah exclaimed, struck by this extra kindness. ‘I had not expected a dance of my own. Do you truly wish to go to so much trouble on my behalf? You have done so much—some would say far too much. We are not even family…’ She glanced away, her cheeks heating as Miss Royston’s eyes flew to her face. She nibbled at a delicious almond comfit as Amelia sipped her tea and looked thoughtful.
‘You are my very good friends,’ she said after a pause. ‘At one time your mama was the only friend I felt I might trust. To me you are as much and perhaps more than family. Besides, it will be no trouble at all,’ Amelia said and laughed. ‘I shall employ others to make certain that everything goes well on the night. Besides, I love to dance and to see young people enjoying themselves.’
‘You speak as if you were past your youth,’ Margaret Hampton said and shook her head. ‘You are still young enough to dance and enjoy life yourself, Amelia.’
‘Yes, perhaps I am, if anyone wished to dance with me,’ Amelia agreed, and her eyes reflected amusement. She looked at Susannah. ‘Please, my dear, you must call me Amelia, at least in private. I want you to think of me as your good friend—an older sister, perhaps.’
‘Oh…thank you,’ Susannah said, a faint colour still in her cheeks. Had Miss Royston suspected her of overhearing her argument with her brother? ‘Yes, that would be very comfortable, when we are all together.’
‘Good. I want you to be comfortable and happy, Susannah.’ Amelia assured her. ‘Your things have been taken to your rooms, though only the small bags have been unpacked, for the day after tomorrow we set out for London.’
‘This will be my first visit to London. I have been to Bath twice. Mama took me to the theatre and the shops. I think London will be very exciting.’
‘You will find it strange and new, but I am sure you will enjoy yourself. There are many theatres and excellent shops in town.’ Amelia smiled at her. ‘Come, we shall go upstairs, for I understand that you have not yet seen your room, Susannah.’
Susannah followed her hostess up the wide staircase, glancing at the portraits hanging on the wall. She felt excited and nervous at the same time, because she understood how lucky she was that Amelia had offered her this Season in town. Amelia’s claims to need friends were mere politeness, because she could have employed a companion for far less than she was giving Susannah and her mother. It was sheer good nature on Amelia’s part, and Susannah was suitably grateful.
The room she was shown into upstairs was pleasant. Decorated in various shades of blue and cream, it had a cool elegance that she guessed was Miss Royston’s doing. The bedchamber had clearly been refurbished recently, and she guessed that their hostess had used her time of mourning to good purpose, ordering the house to her own taste. She had left the parlour untouched, perhaps because it was so very comfortable. Susannah approved of what had been done here and thought how nice it would feel to be in a position to do as one wished. She would love to have the task of refurbishing a large house, but it was expensive. Money was certainly important for a comfortable life.
Left to herself, Susannah sighed. She so longed for romance, but she also knew her duty to Mama. Mama belonged in a house like this, not the cottage she was forced to live in these days. Her only chance of a better life was for Susannah to make a suitable match.
Susannah had finished her examination of the room and begun to change out of her travelling gown when someone knocked at the door. Thinking it must be her mama, she called out that she might enter. A young girl with brown hair and dark eyes came in. She smiled and bobbed a curtsy, seeming a little shy.
‘My name is Iris, Miss Hampton,’ she said. ‘Miss Royston says I am to be your maid for the next few weeks and accompany you to London.’
‘Oh…’ Susannah was surprised; she had grown used to looking after herself at the cottage, but it would be nice to be waited on again, if only for a few weeks. ‘Please come in, Iris. I knew someone had unpacked the gown I wished to wear for this evening—was that you?’
‘Yes, miss. I pressed it while you were having tea.’ Iris looked at her with interest. ‘You have lovely hair, miss. May I dress it for you?’
‘Do you know how to?’ Susannah was hesitant, for her hair was so fine and she could never get it to stay tidy for long.
‘My mother used to be a lady’s maid before she married,’ Iris told her. ‘She taught me all the skills I need and Miss Royston took me on a few weeks ago. She has her own dresser, but I was allowed to help—and now I am to serve you. It will be exciting to visit London, miss.’
‘Yes, it will.’ Susannah smiled at her. ‘Well, you may put my hair up for me this evening,’ she said. ‘I have been experimenting with it myself, but it always falls down again. We shall see what you can do, Iris.’
‘I think I can manage to make it stay in place, miss,’ Iris said. ‘You will be surprised at the difference it will make.’
* * *
Susannah felt very grand as she went down for dinner that evening. She was wearing an expensive yellow gown Mama had bought her for her birthday a few weeks before Papa died. She had not worn it since, because she had not had reason to do so, but this evening was a celebration and she wished to look her best. Her hair was dressed softly into a double loop at the back of her head, caught back with a silk flower and a few wisps allowed to curl at the sides of her face. She looked elegant and quite different from her normal self.
‘Susannah!’ Mrs Hampton stared at her daughter in surprise. ‘You have done your hair differently, my love. It makes you look older and more grown up.’
‘I think it suits her very well,’ Amelia said as she came to join them. ‘Are you pleased with Iris, Susannah? I thought she would be a help to you; if this is an example of her work, I am well satisfied.’
‘Iris put my hair up for me,’ Susannah said. ‘She says we shall try different styles and see which looks best. I think she is very clever with her fingers, for I could never have achieved something like this.’
‘I think I like it now that I am getting used to it,’ Mrs Hampton said, looking slightly pensive. ‘I have been used to thinking of you as my little girl, but I must get used to the idea that you are a young lady now.’
‘And a very beautiful one,’ Amelia said in a tone of approval. ‘I believe she will create something of a stir in town, Margaret. I think you must accustom yourself to the idea that Susannah will be much sought after by the gentlemen.’
‘Well, I hope she may meet someone nice,’ Mrs Hampton said, giving her daughter a fond look. ‘She is a good girl and has been a great comfort to me these past months. I am not sure what I should have done without Susannah’s support.’
‘Yes, of course she has,’ Amelia said and laughed. ‘But we must stop talking about her, for we are making poor Susannah blush.’
Susannah shook her head. She had always known she was pretty, of course, but with her hair styled differently she was beginning to feel like someone else—a young woman instead of a girl.
‘I hope that I shall meet someone I can like well enough to marry him,’ she said. ‘There was a gentleman at home who might have proposed marriage, but he was some years older and I did not care for him….’
‘I dare say you will be able to pick and choose when we are in town,’ Amelia told her. ‘I was thought pretty when I was your age. I might have married several times, but I hesitated and then…’ She sighed, shaking her head. ‘It was too late. I wasted my chance, Susannah, but you must make the most of yours.’
‘Yes, I shall,’ Susannah agreed. ‘If I am lucky enough to meet a gentleman I can like.’
In her mind she substituted the word like for love. She wanted to fall desperately in love with a handsome man, one who would carry her away on his white horse to a castle where she would live happily ever after. As her mother and Amelia turned to walk into the dining parlour, Susannah laughed at her foolish thoughts. It was unlikely she would meet a prince and live in a castle, of course, but she did hope that something exciting would happen.
* * *
The evening was as pleasant as any Susannah could recall for a long time. Her mama was so happy, so clearly pleased to be with her friend, and content with the arrangement that Susannah had almost made up her mind not to mention what she had overheard. However, Amelia drew her apart when Mrs Hampton stopped to enquire a recipe from the housekeeper.
‘Susannah my dearest,’ Amelia said softly, ‘my housekeeper tells me that you took a little walk towards the rose arbour earlier.’
‘Yes…’ Susannah blushed. ‘I will tell you that I heard Mama’s name mentioned and then…an argument. I did not listen long… Forgive me. I know I should have walked away immediately, but I could not help listening for a moment or two.’
‘If you heard someone say unpleasant things of you and your mother, please forgive me,’ Amelia said. ‘I am sorry if you were hurt and I hope you will not let it spoil your visit—or our friendship?’
‘It will not, for you said only good things,’ Susannah said. ‘I think he must be very unkind to speak to you so! Oh, I should not have said that—but I did not like to think he could speak to you in such a manner.’
‘Yes, my brother has been unkind,’ Amelia replied, a hint of sadness in her eyes. ‘His wife more so. Louisa can be spiteful when she chooses. However, I do not speak of it. I did not wish to be rude by appearing in town without informing my family of my intention, but Michael came down after he had my letter and we quarrelled. I shall say no more of the affair. I just wished you to know that his thoughts were not mine. I hope you know that I am truly happy your mama accepted my invitation.’
‘I do know,’ Susannah said and smiled. ‘You are kind and generous and I think we shall be very happy together.’
‘Then that is all I ask for,’ Amelia said. ‘Run along to bed now, my love. You have had a long journey and you must be tired.’
Susannah kissed her cheek on impulse. ‘You are so good! I hate him for being unkind to you,’ she said rashly and then ran away because she feared she had said too much. However, when she looked back, she saw that Amelia was smiling.
Chapter Two
Toby Sinclair looked at his uncle and frowned. He was twenty and newly in town, on the brink of his first Season since leaving Oxford. Harry Pendleton had just promised to put him up for several clubs, excluding the one he most wanted to belong to, however, which was the Four-in-Hand driving club. The elite group consisted of a select band of Corinthians who believed themselves to be masters of style and sport, allowing only a favoured few to their ranks. Having met his uncle by chance at a society affair, he seized his opportunity.
‘Dash it all, Harry! You know I’ve got good hands. You taught me to handle a team yourself. Why can’t you put my name forward?’
‘Because, my young friend, they would blackball me immediately,’ Harry replied with a teasing grin. He was very fond of his sister’s boy and he had taken him in hand from an early age, teaching him the things his father would have had he been able. Sir James Sinclair had married late in life and was now a semi-invalid, confined to his estate and quite often to his rooms with bouts of ill health. ‘For one thing, those clothes you are wearing won’t pass muster, not precise enough—and you’ve a way to go in your handling of a team before they would consider you up to scratch. Coleridge and Ravenshead are pretty strict about who they allow to join. If you keep your nose clean and show that you’re up to snuff this Season, I’ll put you forward next year.’
‘Next year,’ Toby said and pulled a disgusted face. ‘I know they are your particular friends, but I’d back myself in a race against either of them with your blacks, Harry.’
‘Always supposing I would allow you to handle my blacks,’ Harry replied and flicked a speck of non-existent fluff from his immaculate coat of superfine. ‘Don’t look now, but Northaven has just come in. Remember what I told you, Toby. The marquis is received everywhere and you cannot avoid him and his cronies, but be careful of them. The last thing you want is to be caught in their net. Your father asked me to look out for you. He would expect me to warn you of men like Northaven.’
‘Didn’t you say that you won a hundred guineas from him a couple of weeks ago?’
‘Yes. I found it impossible not to oblige him when he invited me to play, but I suspect he may not be completely honest at the tables.’
‘You mean, he cheats?’ Toby’s face showed his disdain as he glanced at the man they were discussing. The Marquis of Northaven was a tall, well-formed gentleman with black hair and very blue eyes. He was generally held to be handsome and the ladies liked him. His progress through the room was causing something of a stir amongst the fair sex, though most looked at him slyly when they thought he was not aware. All the matchmaking mamas were sure to have warned their daughters that he was a rake and not to be trusted, though in some cases that probably only made him more attractive to very young ladies.
‘Well, I dare say he may think I am a flat, but, thanks to you, I am up to most tricks,’ Toby said, his gaze drawn to some newcomers. ‘I say…she’s a beauty, wouldn’t you agree? I believe she is new. I haven’t seen her before.’
Harry followed his nephew’s gaze. A vision in white had just entered the room, accompanied by two attractive older ladies wearing grey and lilac respectively. His eyes narrowed, for the girl was certainly very lovely. Her hair was a dark honey blonde, and she stood out by virtue of the simplicity of her attire. Most of the younger ladies had frills and flounces on their gowns, but she had chosen something more elegant, plain even. Her hair was dressed simply in a loop of the back of her neck, yet it suited her perfectly. He thought perhaps she had taken her cue from the younger of her companions.
Harry frowned as he recognised the lady in grey silk. He had not seen her for some years and she had changed a great deal, but she was still beautiful, extremely elegant. Miss Amelia Royston! If he remembered correctly, his friend, Gerard Ravenshead, had once been interested in the lady, but something had gone wrong. Harry did not know all the details, but Gerard had certainly been cut up about it at the time. It was about the same time that a livid scar appeared at his left temple. Gerard had never spoken of the scar or the reason for the loss of his hopes.
‘Yes, she is rather lovely,’ he said, bringing his gaze back to the vision in white. ‘I have no idea who she is, but I know one of her companions.’
‘You couldn’t introduce me, could you?’ Toby asked and arched his right eyebrow.
‘Fancy your chances, do you?’ Harry asked and chuckled as he saw the younger man colour. ‘I do not think your mama would be happy to see you ensnared too soon, Toby.’
‘Oh, lord, no,’ Toby said and made a grimace of horror. ‘I shall not marry until I am at least as old as you and ready to set up a nursery. Far too boring to be married before you’ve been on the town a few years.’
‘You young cub!’ Harry said and made a face at him. ‘What makes you think I am ready to set up my nursery?’
‘Mama said it was time you did,’ Toby replied innocently but with a wicked air. ‘She says if you leave it much longer, it may be too late.’
‘Good grief. I am three and thirty,’ Harry said and grimaced. ‘I do not think the case desperate yet. Lady Sinclair would have had me married ten years ago if she could, but I had no mind for it. I believe she is more desperate to see me wed than Mama!’
He smiled oddly, for he knew his sister Anne had his best interests at heart. They had always been close and she understood him, perhaps even better than he did himself. Besides, of late he had begun to feel it was time he settled down. Indeed, these days he was as happy with his dogs and horses at home in the country as cutting a dash in town. However, he had not met a lady he wished to marry. Most of the young ladies brought to London by their eager mothers were too naïve and often too timid for his taste. He knew that he would be bored by their company within months and that would be unfair to his wife. If he were to marry, it would be to a lady of spirit, someone who could retain his interest. He was not sure that romantic love existed, but it was certainly possible to admire and care for another. His mother had undoubtedly loved his father, and would never consider marrying again, though she might if she had wished. Harry felt that if he were to marry he would like to be loved in that way, though he knew that most of his friends had married for reasons other than love. Had he been satisfied with a marriage of convenience he might had wed a long time ago, but he was looking for something more.
His eyes narrowed as he noticed that a steady queue of gentlemen were making their way to the side of the beautiful young lady in white. He watched her for a while. Something about her seemed familiar, but he could not think what. He was certain he had never met her before—and yet there was something. She had pretty manners and a nice smile, he observed, before turning away to join some friends in the card room. It was very unlikely that the newcomer would be any different to the other young ladies in the room.
Harry rather thought that when he married, he would probably choose an older lady, perhaps a widow. An intelligent lady, who would fill his house with good company and give him an heir. It was all very well to hope for something more, but in the end he might be forced to marry for the sake of the family.
‘No, no, please, gentlemen, you must not fight over me!’ Susannah begged, her eyes bright with laughter as the two young bucks argued fiercely over the last dance on her card. ‘If you cannot agree which of you should have the dance, I shall promise it to neither of you.’
‘But it should be mine,’ Tom Roberts asserted. ‘I am sure I asked first.’
‘I am the elder by birth and therefore I should take precedence over this rascal,’ his twin Edgar replied, glaring at his brother. ‘You must dance with me, Miss Hampton.’
‘I believe this dance is promised to me, gentlemen.’ The newcomer held out his hand with a touch of command that prompted Susannah to obey, even though she had not yet been introduced. However, she knew who he was, for she had remarked his progress through the room and asked Amelia.
‘Thank you, sir,’ she said, smiling up at the Marquis of Northaven as he led her out to join the throng of dancers. ‘It was good of you to rescue me.’
‘The Roberts twins are known for squabbling with each other,’ Northaven said. ‘Harmless enough, I dare say, but I thought you needed a little help. This is your first Season in town, I believe?’
‘My first dance,’ Susannah confided, her smile sparkling at him, because the evening had been far more exciting than she could ever have imagined. She had not sat out once, and the twins were not the first gentlemen to argue over her, in a friendly, teasing manner, of course. It was just good fun and she had thoroughly enjoyed being fussed over. The reality had far outweighed her dreams thus far. ‘I have had such a lovely time.’
‘Everyone speaks of you as the latest rage,’ Northaven said, amused by her honesty. She was very young and he was usually bored by innocence, but she had spirit and an artlessness that was amusing. ‘It all seems fresh and new for the moment, but you will be bored within a month.’
‘Oh, no, I couldn’t be,’ Susannah retorted. ‘We have been invited everywhere, to so many different affairs. I couldn’t possibly be bored in London.’
‘Do you not know that it is fashionable to be bored?’ Northaven lifted an eyebrow, his expression mocking.
‘Oh…’ Susannah laughed because she believed he was teasing her. ‘I fear that I must be unfashionable then, sir. I have not yet acquired town bronze and you must forgive my country manners—but I refuse to be bored when people have gone to so much trouble on my behalf. It would be rude and ungrateful.’
‘Then you will set a new fashion,’ he told her. ‘Since everyone approves of you, you can do no wrong.’
Susannah looked at him uncertainly as their dance ended. She was not quite sure what to think of him, because he was very different from most of the young gentlemen she had danced with that evening. He returned her to her mother and Amelia, bowed and took his leave. She was conscious of a feeling of disappointment. There was something slightly dangerous about the marquis, and she was not sure she had made an impression on him, though she found him intriguing. He was very handsome, like one of the heroes from her dreams.
‘Susannah…’ She became aware of her mother speaking. ‘This gentleman wishes to make your acquaintance. Lord Pendleton—my daughter, Susannah. Your father was a friend of Lord Pendleton’s father, my dear.’ Mrs Hampton smiled and moved away a few steps to talk to a lady who had caught her attention.
Susannah turned to look at the gentleman her mother had just introduced. He was tall, though not quite as tall as Northaven, but in his way equally attractive. His hair was not as dark as the marquis’s, being a chestnut brown, and with a slight curl to it, his eyes a soft, melting brown. A little shock ran through her as she recognised him. He was the rude gentleman who had almost knocked her down in the lane. He was dressed very differently this evening, but she could not mistake those eyes, even though they were not flashing with temper. She felt hot inside as she wondered whether he would recognise her.
‘Sir.’ She inclined her head, but kept her eyes lowered. Her heart was racing for she hardly knew how to face him. She was almost sure that he had not recognised her and she hoped he would not. Their encounter had been so brief that he would surely have forgotten her. Her hand curled into itself, her heart beating faster. ‘I am pleased to meet you.’
‘It is your first visit to town, Miss Hampton?’
‘Yes—how did you know?’ Her heart raced. Had he recognised her as the girl he had met briefly in a country lane?
Harry hesitated, frowned, then said, ‘I do not wish to seem interfering, Miss Hampton, but if I were you, I should not dance with Northaven too often.’ His gaze narrowed. ‘You know it is strange, but I have the oddest feeling that I have seen you somewhere quite recently.’
‘I doubt it, sir.’ Susannah’s heart caught with fright. What would he think if he realised where he had seen her? One word from a gentleman of his stature and she might be ruined! ‘Why do you warn me against Lord Northaven? He seems a perfect gentleman to me, sir.’
‘I do not fault his manners or his lineage,’ Harry told her. ‘I think perhaps he is not a suitable partner for an innocent and very pretty young lady.’
Susannah had received so many compliments that evening that his words made little impression. She had been called beautiful, stunning, a nymph, an angel and many similar endearments. To be called pretty was not remarkable and, besides, she did not like his tone. Anyone would think he was her brother or her uncle! He was arrogant and opinionated—a bore.
‘I thank you for your concern, sir,’ she replied primly. ‘However, I believe I am quite safe here under the eyes of Mama and Miss Royston.’
‘Yes, I expect you are, as long as you take care to remain where they can see you,’ Harry said and hesitated. ‘Forgive me if I seemed to lecture you. It is not my place to do so—but I would never allow a niece of mine to associate with that gentleman.’
‘I am not your niece, sir.’
‘No, you are not. Forgive me. I have earned your displeasure. I spoke with good intent, but I should not have interfered,’ Harry said, then inclined his head to her and walked off.
Susannah stared after him. His back was very straight and she understood that she had offended him. She had thought at first that he was one of the most attractive gentlemen she had met that evening—in her whole life!—but he was a stuffy bore. She did not think he could be much above thirty years, but he behaved as if he were old enough to be her father! He was certainly not the kind of man she was seeking as a husband. Her eyes searched the room for the man that had made the biggest impression on her that evening and found him.
Northaven turned his head and glanced at her. For a moment his blue eyes met hers and her heart jerked, but then he looked at his companion once more and smiled at something he was saying. Almost at once they left the room together. Susannah’s gaze followed him, her feelings showing a little too well on her face.
‘I could not help overhearing what Harry Pendleton said to you a moment ago,’ Amelia said, and Susannah glanced round at her. ‘It was not his place to say it, of course, but he is quite right, Susannah. Northaven is a rake and perhaps worse. He is received everywhere, but there has been some talk of late. I should not dream of trying to dictate to you, my dear, for there is nothing so annoying as being told not to do something—but if I were you, I should be careful of Northaven, at least until you know more of him. But please do not think that I mean to interfere, for I most certainly do not. That is something I abhor.’
Susannah caught a look in her eyes that told her she was thinking of the way her own life had been when she was forced to live in her brother’s house. Once again she felt indignant that anyone should have made Amelia suffer so. She had been introduced to Amelia’s brother earlier that evening, but his stiff manner had not helped to change her opinion, nor the way he had looked at her, as if she were something the cat had brought in! He obviously thought that she was an adventuress, bent on taking what she could from his sister.
‘Oh…then, of course, I shall be very careful,’ Susannah replied. She did not wish to offend her kind hostess, though she had liked the marquis despite the warning. However, it was Lord Pendleton’s advice that rankled. It was just the same as that day he had almost knocked her down. Instead of apologising he had lost his temper—and now he was seeking to lecture her. Did he imagine that she was stupid? He had spoken to her as if she were still in the schoolroom! She had no intention of becoming compromised by any of the gentlemen, several of whom had enquired if she would like to take the air. She was enjoying her success, but she had as yet no thoughts of marrying anyone and must therefore be careful not to do anything that might seem too particular.
Susannah still felt in her heart that the most exciting man she had met that evening was the Marquis of Northaven, yet it was Lord Pendleton who lingered in her mind long after she had said goodnight to Mama and Amelia and retired to bed. When she dreamed, annoyingly it was of Lord Pendleton, who had somehow acquired a schoolmaster’s hat and waved his cane at her, telling her to behave or he would punish her.
How very ridiculous! In the morning her dreams vanished with the sight of the sunshine pouring in at her window and she rose, feeling refreshed and eager for the day to begin. She laughingly dismissed her annoyance of the previous evening. Life was too amusing to be disturbed by such a small thing for long. Lord Pendleton was rich and respected, but he did not fit her idea of a knight on a white horse. Besides, they had so many engagements, so many affairs to attend that she had no time to reflect on that particular gentleman.
She was going shopping again that morning and she wanted to buy a bonnet she had seen in the milliner’s window a day or so earlier. Bonnets, pretty gowns and enjoying herself were of far more importance than one gentleman’s opinion of her. She did not know why she had let it weigh with her at all!
She would put the disagreeable Lord Pendleton out of her mind and not think of him again.
Harry was undressing that evening when it suddenly came to him. At first he thought that his mind was playing tricks on him. The girl in the country lane and Miss Susannah Hampton were one and the same. In the act of removing his breeches, he swore loudly, causing his valet to turn and look at him.
‘Was something the matter, my lord?’
‘No, Philips, nothing at all,’ Harry said and laughed ruefully. ‘I am a damned fool, that’s all.’
‘I rather doubt it, sir,’ the devoted servant said and smiled. ‘If there is anything I can do to be of assistance?’
‘No, nothing,’ Harry replied, realising that the man was brushing the coat he had worn that evening. ‘Leave all that now and get off to bed.’
He sat on the edge of the bed as the man went out, then sipped the glass of brandy Philips had thoughtfully put out for him.
‘It is a small world…’ Harry smiled to himself. He had wondered why the Hampton girl seemed a little prickly, but now he understood perfectly.
She had looked very different in her simple country dress, her hair blown by the wind and roses in her cheeks—but those eyes did not lie. She really did have the most remarkable eyes.
Had he given her an irrevocable dislike of him? She had called him rude and arrogant at their first meeting, and tonight he had committed the unforgivable sin of lecturing her as if she were a schoolgirl. He had no idea why he had done that, for it was certainly not his business to warn young girls he did not know of Northaven’s character. Some instinct had made him want to protect her from a man he knew unworthy.
Harry pulled a face, chuckling at his own stupidity. He would have to apologise the next time they met. Or perhaps not? She might find it embarrassing to be reminded of that day in the lane. It might be better to try to mend fences before he confessed that he had remembered the incident.
‘What a charming bonnet,’ Amelia said as Susannah tried on the white silk tied with pale blue ribbons and trimmed with matching blue bows. ‘It would compliment that blue pelisse we ordered for morning wear. Why do you not buy it?’
‘I have already bought three hats,’ Susannah objected, mindful that it was not her money they were spending. ‘Do I really need it?’
‘Thankfully, we do not have to consider need, only pleasure,’ Amelia said and nodded to the milliner to indicate that they would take the bonnet. ‘Now, my love—what do you think of the green bonnet in the window? It is a little older in style and I was thinking of it for myself. Do you think it will become me?’
Susannah went to the window and looked at the bonnet. A gentleman was passing at that precise moment, and by chance he happened to look up and see her. He tipped his hat to her, smiling in a manner that made her heart skip a beat. She gave him a look of disapproval and moved away swiftly. Honestly! Was it impossible to go anywhere in London without seeing Lord Pendleton? He had been present at every affair they had attended this week! It almost seemed as if he were following them. She returned to Amelia, determined to put him from her mind.
‘I think the green would suit you very well—’ Susannah began and then broke off as the shop door opened and her mama came in, carrying parcels and closely followed by the offending gentleman in person. ‘Mama…you are loaded down. I thought you meant only to borrow one book from the library. Had you said you wished for more, I should have come with you to help carry them.’
‘There was no need, dearest,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘I found so many volumes that I had been wanting and I was carried away. It was all going splendidly until a large dog jumped at me and I dropped them—only two doors away from here. Lord Pendleton saw my predicament and helped me. When I told him I was coming here, he insisted on accompanying me. Was that not kind of him?’
Susannah looked at the books, which had been set down for a moment. ‘Very kind, Mama. I am not sure when we shall find time to read all of these, for we are invited out every day, to more affairs than we can easily accommodate.’
‘Well, I may not always wish to accompany you on every occasion,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘You and Amelia are so full of life…’ She smiled at the gentleman standing silently at her side, his dark eyes observing them with a hint of amusement. ‘It is such a thing to be young, is it not, sir?’
Lord Pendleton’s eyes were centred on Susannah as he answered, ‘To be so very young is sometimes as much a trial as a pleasure, ma’am. I think we sometimes forget all the problems being young and insecure may bring.’
‘Very true,’ Mrs Hampton agreed, giving him a look of approval. ‘Especially for a young man fresh upon the town, I dare say. I met your nephew earlier. He was just leaving the lending library. A charming young man, if I may say so.’
‘Toby is charming,’ Harry said. ‘This is his first Season in town, you know. I have been trying to warn him of the pitfalls of deep play. There are some gentlemen who do not scruple to invite young men to play deeper than they ought.’
‘Scandalous!’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘They should know better—it can cause real misery for their families.’ Her attention turned to Amelia, who had tried on the green bonnet and was asking for her opinion. ‘It looks very well on you, Amelia. I am sure you should take it—it will go well with several of your gowns, and I like you in colours.’
‘Yes, I think perhaps I may.’
‘Miss Hampton,’ Harry said as the two older ladies discussed which gowns the bonnet would compliment, ‘do you attend Lady Silverson’s dance this evening?’
‘Yes, I believe we do,’ Susannah replied. ‘Shall we see you there, sir?’
‘Yes, I think you will,’ Harry told her. ‘Indeed, yes, I believe I shall come. Tell me, do you intend to return home shortly? I have my carriage near by if you should require help with all your parcels.’
‘Oh, no,’ Susannah denied. She felt a little warm as she felt his gaze upon her. ‘The milliner will deliver our purchases and Mama’s books will be easy enough for the three of us.’
‘Then I shall continue on my way, for I have an appointment with some friends, though it could easily be postponed if you required my escort,’ Harry said. ‘Miss Royston, you must definitely buy that bonnet. It becomes you charmingly. The colour might have been made for you. Good day to you, ladies. I shall see you this evening.’
‘How odd,’ Amelia remarked as Harry went out and the door closed. ‘I did not expect an opinion from Lord Pendleton. It is rare that he speaks in such a frivolous fashion these days—though he was more free in his manners when he was young, of course.’
‘He is not so old, Amelia, and charming in my opinion,’ Mrs Hampton said, her eyes thoughtful. ‘Besides, he is right. You should buy the bonnet.’
Susannah was thoughtful as Amelia completed her purchase. Lord Pendleton had enquired if they were to attend the dance that evening before telling her that he was going. Of course he was invited everywhere, but it was a little surprising that everywhere they went he was almost certain to be near by.
‘We carried Toby off to play with us last evening.’ Max Coleridge grinned when Harry raised his brows as they spoke at their club a little later that morning. ‘Northaven was trying to bully him into a game and he was clearly unwilling.’
‘I have warned him of it, but you have my thanks,’ Harry said and beckoned to the waiter to bring them more wine. ‘It would be wrong to try to keep him on a leading string. He would resent it and I won’t do it. However, I would be obliged if you could have a word with him. He might take it better from you.’
‘Already done,’ Max said and grinned. ‘You don’t want to smother the boy, Harry. He has to learn—and we were all young once. Hard as it may be to remember in your case.’
Since there was only a couple of years between them, this brought a shout of laughter from Harry. ‘Take care, Max! I might challenge you to a duel for that!’
‘You would undoubtedly have done so once,’ Max replied carelessly, a spark of mischief in his grey eyes. His hair was a dark brown, thick and with a tendency to curl at the nape of his neck if he allowed it to grow longer than he liked. ‘Getting a bit lazy…grumpy in your old age?’
‘Damn it, I’m not that old yet,’ Harry said ruefully. ‘Though there are times when I feel it.’ He eyed his friend thoughtfully. ‘Honestly—have I become too serious of late? I feel that I may be stale…set in my ways…’
‘Is there a reason for your feeling that, perhaps?’
Harry shook his head. ‘Just a notion that I may be coming down a bit hard on Toby. He hasn’t said anything to you?’
‘Not at all, admires you,’ Max assured him, his gaze narrow and thoughtful. ‘No other reason?’
Harry saw the laughter hidden just below the surface. ‘None at all—what makes you ask?’
‘Just wondered. Lady Sinclair told me she thought it was time you set up your nursery. Wondered if you meant to oblige her?’
‘Damn her—and you.’ Harry scowled. ‘I have no intention of it yet, Max. You seem to have a bee in your bonnet—when am I to wish you happy?’
‘I have been thinking of it…’
‘Really? Who is the young lady?’ Harry stared in astonishment.
‘There is no one as yet, but I think it is time to start looking.’
‘This is sudden, isn’t it?’
Max nodded and sipped his wine. ‘I think perhaps I ought to consider it or the alternative,’ he said and shook his head as Harry arched one eyebrow. ‘No, I shall not explain, Harry. It’s a small problem I have to work out for myself. Anyway, we kept Toby out of trouble for you the other evening, but Northaven ensnared another young idiot. I didn’t know him, but I think perhaps Toby did.’
‘There’s always one,’ Harry agreed. He lapsed into silence, sipping his wine and thinking about what his friend had said about it being time to think of marriage. Max was, after all, two years his junior….
Susannah’s heart raced as she saw the marquis turn and look at her. He immediately began to walk towards her. She had just two dances left on her card that evening and she wondered if he would ask for them both.
‘Miss Hampton,’ a voice spoke at her side. Susannah turned to look, feeling a spurt of annoyance as she saw that it was Lord Pendleton. He had told her he would be there that evening, but she had not seen him earlier. Why did he have to speak to her at just the moment the Marquis of Northaven was about to approach her? Glancing back, she saw that the marquis had turned away and was speaking to another young lady, Mary Hamilton, a girl whom Susannah had come to know as they were often invited to the same affairs. ‘May I hope that you have a dance for me?’
Susannah blushed, because her thoughts were unworthy. ‘Yes, of course, sir. Perhaps you would like the waltz, which is just about to start? I believe it is my last…’ She was not lying because the supper dance was not a waltz and all the others had been taken.
‘I should be delighted,’ Harry said and took her hand. ‘May I say that you look delightful this evening, Miss Hampton? Not every young lady wears white as well as you.’
‘I thank you for the compliment, sir,’ Susannah said. She put her annoyance at his untimely interruption aside, because however annoying it might be to have missed an invitation from the marquis—who was infrequently at these affairs—Lord Pendleton was wonderful at waltzing. ‘But I think there are many young ladies here this evening who look just as pretty.’
‘Perhaps. Yes, I agree there are many pretty girls, but only a handful are beautiful. Miss Royston is beautiful. You are beautiful—and Miss Hamilton is beautiful. The others are pretty.’
Susannah frowned at him. ‘I suppose you mean to compliment me, sir…’
‘No. I mean to be truthful,’ Harry told her. ‘You will discover that I am usually honest in my observations, Miss Hampton.’ He looked at her for a moment, as if considering something he wished to say, but nothing was forthcoming.
‘Oh…’ Susannah was thoughtful. She hardly knew how to answer him. She had thought he was paying her an exquisite compliment, but now he had made it seem almost a reprimand. He was such an odd man! She was not even sure that he liked her, though of course he was always polite. Lord Pendleton had some of the most exquisite manners, far more so than any gentleman she had met in the country; he was one of the most respected gentlemen in the drawing rooms of London, beloved of the hostesses. However, that did not particularly recommend him in her eyes. He seemed a little severe and she had not forgiven him for scolding her the first time they met. ‘Of course I do not know you well, sir.’
‘No, we are not well acquainted as yet,’ Harry agreed. ‘I shall hope that we may become so as the Season goes on, Miss Hampton.’
Susannah smiled at him uncertainly. She was not sure whether he was just being polite or whether he meant it—and even if he did, she was not sure that she truly wished to know him well. He was a little older than most of her admirers, and serious—though he had a habit of lingering in her mind and her dreams.
Their dance ended and Lord Pendleton left her with Amelia, but it was only a matter of some minutes before her next partner claimed her. Swept up in the excitement of the evening, Susannah forgot her disappointment at missing the chance to dance with the Marquis of Northaven. He did not approach her again and left the room long before the supper dance. In the meantime, another gentleman asked for a dance and she was obliged to give her last one to him.
Lord Pendleton did not ask her for another dance that evening, though she saw him dance with several other young ladies, including Mary Hamilton and Amelia.
It was as she was leaving the ballroom to refresh herself before supper that she happened to overhear two young ladies talking. They were whispering and giggling, and she could not help but hear what Mary was saying to her friend.
‘Mama says that I should encourage Pendleton if I get the chance, but I heard that he has an expensive mistress. Mama says that gentlemen often have them, but I am not sure I approve.’
Her friend giggled and whispered something. Miss Hamilton laughed harshly. ‘Well, I suppose he has fortune enough to pay for both a wife and a mistress if he cared for them, but I shall expect him to buy me more lavish presents than he gives her—if I encourage him, of course. I prefer Northaven, but Mama will not hear of it. She says he is a rogue and…’
Susannah hurried up the stairs, not wanting to hear more of their nonsense. She had been wondering why Lord Pendleton was always to be seen at these affairs, but if he were thinking of making Mary Hamilton an offer, he would naturally make certain of every chance to fix his interest with her.
Susannah could not help feeling disappointed. Not because her feelings were engaged, for they most certainly were not! However, she would not have expected a man like Harry Pendleton to be caught by Mary Hamilton. He had remarked that she was a beautiful young lady—but did he have any idea how very silly Mary Hamilton was? Susannah did not dislike her, but she would certainly not count her amongst the particular friends she had made since arriving in town.
Shaking her head over what she had learned, Susannah went into the bedchamber put aside for the ladies to use. She wondered if she ought to be shocked at the suggestion that Lord Pendleton had an expensive mistress. If it were true, she must be either very tolerant or very angry, for she could not have seen very much of her protector recently.
It was highly improper of her to think of such things, but she could not help wondering what it was like to be a gentleman’s mistress. How did one go on in such a situation? Susannah did not think it could be pleasant, even if there were handsome presents. She would not like to be Lord Pendleton’s mistress if he were thinking of marrying Mary Hamilton. Oh, dear, what a wicked thing to have come into her mind. She would not want to be any man’s mistress! And particularly not that rather annoying gentleman. She might have been even more annoyed if she had guessed at his thoughts that evening.
Harry was wondering why he had not yet made his apology. He was still hesitating because he thought it might have embarrassed her to know that he had recalled their first meeting.
* * *
‘Did you enjoy your drive, my love?’ Mrs Hampton asked when Susannah returned from an engagement with her new friend Miss Terry and her brother Sir James Terry two days later. ‘It was a beautiful morning for a drive in the park.’
‘Yes, it was,’ Susannah agreed and smiled. It had been a very pleasant morning—they had met so many people, all of whom seemed as if they wanted to stop and talk, particularly to Susannah, if they happened to be gentlemen. ‘We met several of our friends, Mama, and I was introduced to some new ones by Lord Northaven.’
‘I am not sure that I would wish you to know that gentleman’s friends,’ her mama said with a frown. ‘I know he is a most attractive gentleman and no one could fault his manners—but I have heard a few things that make me feel he may not be quite suitable for you to know, Susannah. You must greet him politely, of course, should he speak to you, but I think it best if you do not go out of your way to encourage him, dearest. I have heard him described as a rake. You must think of your reputation.’
‘I should not dream of encouraging the marquis any more than I would encourage the attentions of any gentleman I do not know well. I believe I have more sense than that, Mama.’
‘Yes, of course you do, my love,’ Mrs Hampton replied fondly. ‘At least, if there should be a suitable gentleman you rather liked—someone like Lord Pendleton, say—then you might be permitted to show a little encouragement, though nothing particular, of course. I do not like to see young ladies throwing themselves at the gentlemen, it is most unbecoming. Any advance must always come from the gentleman—though a smile does not go amiss.’
‘Oh, Lord Pendleton,’ Susannah said dismissively. Lord Pendleton seemed always there when she looked round, his serious eyes seeming to reproach her. She had not spoken to Northaven for some days—until that morning by chance in the park. After the last time, when he had changed his mind about asking her for a dance, she had believed he was indifferent to her, but that morning he had flirted with her outrageously, bringing a blush to her cheeks. Of course she could not tell Mama that! ‘Lord Pendleton is all very well, Mama, but a little stern—do you not think so?’
‘He seems to me an excellent gentleman in every way,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘We see him quite often. Has he given you an indication that he likes you, my dear?’
‘Mama! No, of course not,’ Susannah replied, a little wrinkle daring to mar the perfection of her smooth brow. ‘I believe he admires Miss Hamilton. She certainly believes it, for she expects an offer—and I think he imagines me to be a foolish child, far beneath his notice, I dare say.’
‘I am very certain he does not!’ Mrs Hampton responded on a laugh. ‘What makes you think he may have an interest in Miss Hamilton?’
‘He told me he considered her beautiful—and I overheard something she said to a friend. I believe she expects an offer soon. You must not imagine Lord Pendleton comes to these affairs just to see me. He has friends everywhere. I hear him spoken of all the time and I think he must be very popular. He is invited to all the best houses!’
‘Why would that be, do you imagine?’ Mrs Hampton asked innocently. ‘I am surprised he has an interest in Miss Hamilton. I had not noticed it myself.’
‘Oh, I suppose he is popular because he is rich, and of course he does have excellent manners,’ Susannah said thoughtfully. ‘He fetched me a glass of champagne when mine was accidentally knocked over last evening and I did not even have to ask, though he was not sitting with me.’
‘Quite an observant gentleman, as well as thoughtful,’ her mother said. ‘He served in the army with Wellington for a few years, you know, and was commended for his bravery; then he came home to take over the estate when his father fell ill and subsequently died. They say he has improved things considerably. He is very modern in his thinking when it comes to the land and agriculture.’
‘You clearly approve of the gentleman,’ Susannah said. Her mama obviously thought him a good catch! ‘Since you have been talking to him a great deal.’
‘Oh, not so very much,’ Mrs Hampton said airily. ‘One hears things, you know. I have not heard his name linked with any lady in particular.’
‘He has a mistress…’ Susannah blurted out and then blushed as her mama stared at her. ‘Forgive me. I should not have spoken of it, Mama. I know it was not proper, but I heard someone say that she was expensive.’
‘Such unfortunate ladies are to be pitied,’ Mrs Hampton said. ‘If Lord Pendleton does have an arrangement of the kind—which is not unusual—I dare say he will end it at the proper time. I do not think he would do anything improper. I imagine if he thought of marriage, he would end any such arrangement, Susannah.’
‘No, I am sure he would not do anything improper,’ Susannah said and could not think why she felt disappointment. ‘It would be nice if Lord Pendleton proved to be less than perfect. It is very hard to live up to someone who is so particular.’
‘Oh, I dare say he has his faults,’ Mrs Hampton said with a smile. ‘Do not let the idea of a mistress worry you, my love. Whoever was speaking of it in your hearing was wrong to do so.’
‘Yes. I thought her a very silly girl.’ Susannah looked at her with interest. ‘You do not condemn him for it?’
‘No, I do not. Nor, if you are sensible, should you.’
‘I do not,’ Susannah said. In fact, she had decided that it made him seem less dull than she had first thought him. ‘And now, Mama—I have seen a picture of a gown I should like to have made for the dance Amelia is to give for me, if I may…’
Susannah frowned as she saw that Lord Pendleton was already at Lady Hamilton’s musical evening when they arrived. He was talking to a very pretty young lady, but he had noticed them and smiled, nodding in their direction. Susannah inclined her head. She accepted a glass of lemonade from one of the footmen circulating and wandered over to look at some particularly fine plants that her hostess had caused to be arranged by the deep bow windows. The view was over a particularly pleasant garden, and Susannah was admiring it when she became aware of someone at her shoulder. She turned, not in the least surprised to see the gentleman standing just behind her, for he usually sought her out at some time in the evening.
‘Good evening, Lord Pendleton,’ she said. He was looking extremely handsome that evening dressed in a fine blue coat with pearl-grey breeches that fitted him superbly. ‘I did not know you were coming this evening.’
‘I was not sure of it myself,’ Harry told her. ‘It is odd that we seem to meet almost everywhere, Miss Hampton—but delightful. Your presence enlivens many a dull affair.’
‘You flatter me, sir. I am a very ordinary girl.’
‘I would not call you that,’ Harry replied. ‘Indeed, I would say that you are far from ordinary, Miss Hampton. Are you looking forward to this entertainment? The tenor has an exceptional voice.’
‘I have heard that he is excellent,’ Susannah replied. ‘Do you enjoy music, sir? I like to play the pianoforte, though I am not an accomplished musician. I enjoy good singing, though I have little voice myself.’
‘Music is one of life’s true pleasures,’ Harry agreed. ‘Reading, poetry and good works of fiction are also very agreeable—do you not think so?’
‘Yes. Yes, I do,’ Susannah replied. They had not often spoken at such length and she warmed to him, for he was an intelligent man and seemed to think much as she did about such things. ‘I love to ride when I have a horse available and to walk in the country…’ A flush touched her cheeks—she had realised that she ought to be honest with him. ‘I believe I should tell you something, sir. When we met in company, it was not for the first time.’
‘Did you know me at once?’ Harry asked. ‘I did not place you until my return home later that evening. I must apologise for my behaviour that day, Miss Hampton. I was so shocked by the knowledge that| I might have killed you that I lost my temper. It was abominably rude of me.’
‘I think I was as much at fault,’ Susannah said, a flush in her cheeks. ‘I did hear something before I dashed across the road, but I thought I had time and I was not truly thinking—I had my head in the clouds, as Mama would say.’
‘You are a remarkable young lady,’ Harry told her. ‘However, you must allow me to bear the fault, for it was my damnable temper. I try to control it, but sometimes when I am much moved it escapes me.’
Susannah laughed, her eyes alight with amusement. ‘You speak of your temper as though it is a wild beast, sir.’
‘Exactly so,’ Harry replied, amused by her perception. She was refreshingly honest and utterly charming, and he was becoming more and more addicted to her company. ‘Perhaps we should take our places? I believe they are about to begin….’
He offered her his arm and they walked to an unoccupied sofa, sitting down next to her as the musicians began to play.
‘What do you think of the latest “rage”?’ Toby asked when he met his uncle outside White’s the following afternoon. Harry was leaving the gentleman’s club, Toby just arriving, having spent the previous night at a gaming hell where he had drunk a little too much, sleeping heavily that morning as a consequence. He grinned at his cousin. ‘Have you heard the rumour that you are in the petticoat line at last? At the moment they cannot decide between Miss Hamilton and Miss Hampton, though the delightful Susannah is thought to be slightly in the lead.’
Harry grimaced. ‘If you waste your time listening to gossip, you will never acquire the skills you need to join the Four-in-Hand. Had you forgotten our appointment this morning? I thought you wanted to drive my team to Richmond?’
‘Good grief!’ Toby smote his forehead with the palm of his hand. ‘It went right out of my head, Harry. I went to a gambling hell last night and drank a little too much and slept late this morning. I’m dashed sorry!’
‘So you should be,’ Harry told him with a severe look. ‘I dare say your pockets are to let this morning?’
‘It isn’t quite that bad,’ Toby said with a wry grimace. ‘Northaven did try to involve me in a high-rolling card game again last night, but I stuck to the dice with my friends and lost about five hundred to Jackson. It was a sum I could afford to lose, particularly as I won a thousand from Ravenshead the other evening.’
‘I am relieved to hear it,’ Harry said. ‘I do not wish to carp, Toby, but it can be very expensive in town if you play too deep. You will end up owing your tailor and everyone else bills you cannot pay if you are not careful. If the worst happens, you may apply to me, of course—but I should warn you that I shall take a dim view.’
‘I dare say I should be in trouble had I let myself be cajoled into playing with Northaven,’ Toby said. ‘I saw young Harlow sit down with them a few nights ago. He lost a fortune. I am not sure of the amount, but I know it was a great deal, for a crowd gathered about them at the last. When Harlow rose from the table he could not pay the whole immediately and his face was as white as a sheet.’
‘I imagine he will have to apply to his father for funds, and I do not know how General Harlow will pay,’ Harry said, looking thoughtful. ‘I know he has had some trouble himself with his investments. If the play was too deep, he may have to sell land to pay his son’s debts.’
General Harlow had served with Harry at one time on the Peninsula. Toby knew that his uncle liked and respected his neighbour.
‘Would you buy?’ he asked. ‘If he is forced to sell?’
‘If he truly wishes to sell,’ Harry replied. ‘I think I should post down to the country and have a word. It might be possible to arrange a loan to tide him over. I would not pay the young idiot’s gambling debt—that would encourage him to play deep again—but I may help his father. What passes between them regarding this is their own affair.’
Harry was a good friend in an emergency, as Toby knew well. He had told him the tale of Harlow’s downfall, knowing that he might wish to offer assistance to his neighbour. Although it was not generally known, Harry was one of the wealthiest men in England. His investments were always kept private, but Toby believed he had a finger in several pies and was not above being involved in trade if it would turn a profit. Naturally, he was too much the gentleman to discuss these things, but Toby had learned to read between the lines. He had not enquired into his uncle’s business, for it wasn’t done, but one day, after he’d had his fun, sown a few wild oats, he intended to ask Harry for a few pointers.
However, for the moment, he had something closer to his heart on his mind. ‘Have you spoken to Ravenshead about my becoming a member of the Four-in-Hand?’ he asked. He had held back from doing so himself, because he was relying on his uncle to do the business for him.
‘If you remember, that was the point of our drive this morning,’ Harry replied. ‘I am not able to make another arrangement for the time being, Toby, for I shall leave town this afternoon and may be away for a couple of days or so. However, we shall drive together when I get back. I believe Ravenshead means to stay in town for a while. He was undecided at the start and refused all invitations, but he told me that he thought he would attend a ball next week. If you prove yourself worthy, I may speak to him for you.’
Susannah paused outside the parlour door. She had returned home earlier from an expedition than expected and was about to join Amelia for tea when she heard voices and hesitated, uncertain whether or not to go in.
‘I am glad to see you, John,’ Amelia was saying. ‘Shall I ring for wine or tea? I am alone, as you see. My friends went out…’
‘Father was put out when you invited them to stay with you,’ John Royston answered in a frank tone that carried easily to Susannah’s ears even as she lifted her hand to knock. She hesitated as he continued, ‘I must tell you that I think Miss Hampton charming. If she had fifty thousand, I should join the queue of hopefuls, but I do not think she could afford me.’
‘Susannah has too much sense to marry a man who cares only for her fortune, though she has something,’ Amelia told him. ‘Are you in trouble again, John?’
Susannah hesitated, knowing she ought to leave, but her feet refused to move and she continued to listen.
‘Lord, no,’ he said. ‘I won a thousand from Carstairs last night, which will tide me over until next quarter if I am careful—which I shan’t be, of course. I wondered if you would speak to Father for me, Amelia?’
‘I have little influence with my brother,’ Amelia replied. ‘If you aren’t in debt, what is the matter?’
‘I have asked Father to buy me a pair of colours,’ John said. ‘He says I should settle down and take an interest in the estate, but he would hate it if I did. If I offered advice, he would soon tell me to take my nose out of his affairs. But he says he can’t afford to support me as an officer.’
‘Yes, he would,’ Amelia agreed. ‘Are you sure the army is for you?’
‘Father will live for years yet,’ John told her. ‘I have nothing but my allowance, which is barely enough to support the life I lead in town. I must either look for an heiress or take myself off for a few years. Of the two, I think I prefer life in the army.’
‘If I bought you the colours, and gave you an income of, say, two thousand a year, could you live within your means? Even in the army it is not cheap for an officer.’
At this point, Susannah decided that she had heard too much already and must either knock or move away. Just as she was deciding what to do, her mother called to her from the top of the stairs.
‘Are you waiting for me, my dear? Go in, Susannah. Amelia will send for tea and I am ready for mine.’
Susannah raised her hand, knocked and entered, feeling awkward. She was in time to see John Royston kiss his aunt’s cheek. He tucked something into his breast pocket, managing to look as if nothing unusual had happened.
‘Miss Hampton,’ he said and came to her, bowing elegantly. He took the hand she offered and kissed it. ‘I was just saying to Amelia that you are the toast of the town. I would offer my suit, but I have no fortune to recommend me.’
‘I would not accept a gentleman just for his fortune,’ Susannah replied, a little reserved. She was embarrassed at having heard something that ought to have remained private, feeling herself at fault for having listened. It was the second time she had done so and something she must correct! ‘I shall give my hand and heart only when I find love.’
‘Quite right too,’ he said, eyes twinkling. He was a handsome young man and Susannah thought him charming enough. However, it seemed that he had visited to ask for money, and she could not help thinking that Amelia was not well used by her family. Her nephew had been pleasant in his manner to his aunt, but there was sadness in Amelia’s eyes. Susannah felt her heart go out to her, for she sensed that she was hiding some deep hurt. She glanced at the young man as he continued, ‘Well, I shall go and leave you ladies to enjoy a good gossip about me….’
‘Do not flatter yourself, John,’ Amelia said drily. ‘I assure you that we have far more of interest than your escapades.’
He grinned and went out, leaving them together. Susannah glanced at Amelia.
‘I realised that you had company and did not wish to intrude…’
‘Thank you, Susannah. My nephew came to me for help, which I gave freely. John is a charmer—as unlike his father as it is possible to be. I have promised to buy him a pair of colours. I think he will do well in the army. It could be the making of him.’
‘What a fine thing to do for him,’ Mrs Hampton said approvingly as she came in, in time to hear Amelia’s remark. ‘It could well be the making of him, as you say, Amelia. I knew you were considering what would be best for him, for you have said as much to me. If he truly wishes for an army life it will suit him, and life in town is the ruin of many a young man.’
‘Yes, I think it will suit John, which is why I was happy to oblige him,’ Amelia agreed and smiled at Susannah. ‘You are back a little earlier from your walk than I expected.’
‘It came on to rain and we thought we might as well come back for tea.’
‘I am happy that you did, because I am feeling a little low.’ Amelia glanced at Susannah. ‘Nothing to do with my nephew’s visit—another matter entirely. Something happened when I visited the library…’ She paused and that odd sadness was in her eyes. ‘I thought I saw someone—a ghost from the past—and it brought back memories.’
‘I am sorry if it made you sad,’ Susannah said. ‘I do not like to think of anyone hurting you. You are such a lovely person…’ She blushed, afraid she had said too much, but Amelia laughed and shook her head.
‘You are a sweet girl, Susannah. I love both you and Margaret dearly, and so I shall tell you that I once thought to marry, but the marriage was not permitted and he went away. I caught a brief glimpse of someone I thought might be the gentleman I once wished to marry, but it was probably not he. Besides, it was some years ago and I have put it all behind me.’ Her eyes rested on Susannah. ‘I did not wish you to imagine it was John who upset me, for I was happy to see him.’
Susannah blushed, her eyes dropping as Amelia turned away to ring for tea. She thought that Amelia was gently reprimanding her for eavesdropping again, and indeed it was very bad of her. She must not do it again, but it was so very tempting when one heard one’s own name.
‘Well, my dear,’ Mrs Hampton said, ‘you are much admired, you know, Amelia. I am perfectly certain you could marry if you wished. After all, you may please yourself now.’
‘Like Susannah, I would marry only if I could both love and respect the gentleman,’ Amelia said, but there was such a wistful look in her eyes that Susannah suspected she was still in love with the gentleman she had been denied—even if she would not admit it to herself.
Harry was thoughtful as he left town that afternoon. He would not have expected the gossips to latch on to his interest in Miss Hampton that quickly. He thought that he had been careful to show no particular interest in her in public, though he had spent much of the previous evening at her side. It must have been remarked, which was a nuisance—he had not meant to draw the attention of the gossipmongers just yet. He had been watching Susannah as she settled into her niche as the latest rage. Her vivacity was what set her apart from the crowd. She was clearly a girl of spirit and took to any new suggestions eagerly, showing her appreciation. He thought perhaps she might be a little reckless at times, but she would surely grow out of it—and he did find her charming company.
However, as yet Harry had not truly thought of marriage, even though Anne had been urging it on him for the past couple of years. If he were to consider the idea, Susannah Hampton might be the kind of girl he would wish to make his wife; she was certainly suitable and he liked her. For the moment he had no such intention and must be scrupulous—he would not wish to cause gossip that would affect her good name. He was therefore pleased with an excuse to leave town for a day or two. It would give him a chance for some quiet reflection, and he wanted to speak to General Harlow.
His neighbour was a proud gentleman and Harry would need to think of a scheme whereby he could help him without appearing to offer charity.
Chapter Three
Susannah glanced round the ballroom. Most of the dances she had attended so far had been modest affairs. This was the first large ball she had been invited to and it was a glittering event. Magnificent chandeliers shed their light on the assembled company, picking up the sparkle of jewels around the throats of the ladies and in the gentlemen’s cravats. The wealthiest members of society had gathered at the Duke and Duchess of Morland’s grand affair, their laughter and chatter making such a noise that it was difficult to hear one another speak. From a room further on, Susannah could hear the faint strains of music, but the receptions rooms were so crowded that it was almost impossible to progress, especially as people kept stopping them.
It must have been at least twenty minutes later that they finally arrived at the ballroom itself, which was so magnificent that it took Susannah’s breath away. The floor had been polished so hard that it looked smooth and glossy, great glittering chandeliers of glass lit by hundreds of candles overhead as the dancers moved gracefully to the music. Banks of flowers had been arranged at the foot of the dais and the scent of the blooms was so heavy that it was almost stifling.
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Anne Herries
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современная зарубежная литература
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: Lord Pendleton’s Society Wife In her first season in London, country girl Susannah Hampton is confused by the attentions of the dashing Lord Pendleton. Wealthy, but undeniably arrogant, he is certainly not the kind of husband she had in mind. Although she can’t help but find him attractive.Soon Susannah gets what she hopes for – a marriage proposal! She may be an innocent country miss, but now Susannah is determined to inflame her husband’s passion – and melt the ice around his heart…Debutantes enjoy the delights of A Season in Town