Pascale Duguay (13 page)

But what was it about this inheritance? Certainly that could only be idle gossip. Wouldn’t she be the first to know if that were the case? On second thought, that was just the kind of thing her father would have hidden from her, hoping to get his hands on the money himself. And if Julius had heard the rumour also tonight, would it have changed his feelings regarding their union? Was he indeed looking to fill his coffers?

The questions tumbled inside her brain, but no definite answers sprang forth to alleviate her worries. Patience rubbed her arms, suddenly feeling the chill in the night air. Time enough to ponder these questions on the morrow. She should go back inside. She had absented herself long enough. With a sigh, she stood up and entered the ballroom only to encounter her father.

“I find you at last!” Lord Bingham exclaimed a false smile set upon his lips. “You have been so much in demand tonight that I feared I would never get a word with you.”

“With a gaming room so close, I did not think you would find the least need to speak to me.”

“Don’t be impertinent,” Lord Bingham almost growled although the smile did not leave his face. “Just because your engagement has been publicly announced does not mean I have given up on your marriage to Carlton.”

Patience was relieved from replying by the Earl’s sudden appearance at her elbow. “Excuse me, but I believe this dance to be mine.”

Lord Bingham waved them off in a perfect show of amiability and turned to find himself face to face with the dark beauty he had been told had had her clutches on Rutherford just days before.

“I could not help but overhear your conversation with your daughter just now. I believe you and I have a common goal.”

Lord Bingham nodded, interested to hear what she would say next.

“I have invited your daughter and Rutherford to attend my upcoming ball. I am sure we can contrive to reach our goal then. I leave in the morning. Send your directions to my room before my departure. When I have formulated a plan, I will inform you of it.”

She left, not bothering to wait for his response.

Lord Bingham did not find that he cared for Miss Arlington’s highhanded ways, but his instincts told him this was not a woman to underestimate. It did not matter to him after all how the deed was accomplished. If the lady wanted to take charge, so be it. As long as Patience ended up married to Carlton, he would not get in her way.

After the dance, Julius escorted Patience to supper. As they walked down the long hallway to the dining room, a commotion broke out ahead of them. Surprised, Patience watched as Jessup broke free from Simmons’ grasp and came plummeting toward them. Julius caught him in time to stop him from running her over.

“What is the meaning of all this?” Julius demanded as the other guests murmured their disapproval of such goings-on while eagerly observing the little drama.

“I am sorry to disturb you at such a time,” responded a much-harassed Simmons hard on Jessup’s heels. “The boy barged in after being denied admittance!”

“Miss Patty! It’s me mum,” gasped Jessup, tears streaming down his face. “Doctor Hobbs’ still away. She said not to bother you, but she’s screaming something awful. Please help!”

“It’s all right. Of course I will help. Is it the babe?”

At Jessup’s nod, she turned to Simmons. “We will need clean linen. Please ask Mrs. Barret to prepare a pile. Julius, I must go up and change. Oh, and we will need to borrow one of your carriages.” She was gone in a flash, leaving a stunned audience in her wake.

Julius recovered his wits first. Releasing Jessup, he turned a blank look on Simmons. “I believe we had better do as we are bid.”

“Yes, my lord,” responded the butler faintly.

As Simmons hurried away, Julius urged his guests to continue on to the dining room. By the time Patience returned wearing her grey gown and carrying her valise, the hallway was empty of guests.

“I’m sorry for all the commotion, Julius. I hope you are not too angry with me for disturbing the ball, but I really cannot leave Mrs. Marlow alone at such a time. With any luck, I shall be back in a very short while.”

Julius reached for the valise with familiar ease.

“What are you doing?” Patience asked.

“I am going with you.” Julius strode toward the front door where the carriage was already waiting with the necessary supplies.

“But you cannot! You are the host of the ball!” cried Patience, nearly running to keep up with him.

“I apprised my mother of the situation. She and your aunt will ensure the ball continues on smoothly without us.”

“Are you certain this is what you want, Julius?”

Julius stopped abruptly to look down into her worried face. He reached out a hand to caress her cheek.

“Absolutely. You are not the only one who is allowed to be unconventional, you know.”

At her stunned look, he let out a happy chuckle. It would seem he had finally managed to silence his fiancée!

As they bowled along the country road, a thought crossed Julius’ mind.

“Patience, have you ever done this before?”

“No, but I have often helped with the birthing of calves. Oh, do not look at me like that! I know it is not the same, but Mrs. Marlow has already done this several times. She will know exactly how best I can help.”

Patience was proven right, to Julius’ enormous relief. Never had he felt so helpless as he waited alongside the Marlow men. Belinda Marlow was born two hours later followed closely by her twin brother, Edward. Now the proud father and grandfather each held a small bundle, cooing in delight while Mrs. Marlow kept apologizing for taking Patience away from her own party.

“Hush, I do not want to hear another word on the subject. If you only knew how glad I was to finally have an excuse to escape. You should have seen all the noble ladies staring at me so, hoping I would make a fool of myself! I had no notion Lord Rutherford was so popular with the ladies as to make so many of them jealous. I would never have believed it. Why only ten years ago, he was the most repuls — ”

“We should be going now,” the Earl interrupted hastily. “It is rather late.”

They took their leave, Patience promising to return in the morning to see how the twins and their mother fared.

“Brat,” Julius muttered when they were finally alone in the carriage. “Did you really have to bring up that part of my past?”

“I could not resist.” She smiled, happier and more relaxed than he had seen her all evening. “You never told me if you had tried the salve I left to help with your pimply problem.”

“As if you needed to! Of course I did. It was either that or hide myself away for the remainder of my days!”

Patience giggled but suddenly stopped when he took hold of her hand and brought it to his lips to place a kiss on each of her fingers.

“You have not ceased to amaze me since the very first day I met you.”

“I am not sure whether that is a compliment considering you started scolding me from that moment!” Patience teased him in an effort to hide just how much his kisses affected her.

“You know, I never disliked you as a child. In fact, I was jealous of your carefree attitude toward life. While I was struggling to find ways to save my estates, you were climbing trees and playing in the pond. I longed to be doing these things myself, but I could not afford to because so many irksome tasks awaited me.”

“I am sorry, Julius.”

Julius was puzzled. “For what exactly?”

“For not being the lady you might have wished to marry, for not meeting your requirements as mentioned in your list.”

“You know about my list?”

“It seems the whole party knew about it tonight. I felt as if everyone was comparing me to it and found me lacking.”

“If I am right in thinking that we are speaking of the list that Philip once found on my desk, then those people are in the wrong. That list no longer exists.”

Patience did not know how to reply. She remained silent while he kept hold of her hand for the remainder of the ride.

A sleepy Simmons greeted them at the door with the information that most of the guests had retired for the night with the exception of a few gentlemen still in the card room. As it was nearly four in the morning, that was only to be expected. Julius sent Patience off to bed, ordering her to make sure to get plenty of rest. He himself made his way to the card room where he found Lord Bingham and Charles Wilbury playing at the same table. Lord Bingham’s luck seemed to be in for once, as a large pile of bills rested at his elbow. At the end of the game, the party broke up, allowing Julius some time alone with Charles.

His friend, having heard of the couple’s hasty departure, was eager to know what had happened. Julius recounted the tale to a much-bemused Charles.

“I have to say that I was very concerned when I first heard of your surprise engagement to a chit I had never even heard of,” said Charles. “But by God, the more I learn, the more I think you have landed yourself a real gem! I did not want to say this to you before, but I always thought that the Arlington chit was not the gal for you. Can’t abide her myself. She would have led you a merry dance, old boy!”

“And you don’t think Patience has done so already?”

Charles gave him a hearty slap on the shoulder. “Aye, but I think you enjoy dancing to her tune and are not likely to get tired of it anytime soon!”

It was past eleven when Patience finally woke up. She stretched happily, remembering the two little darlings she had helped bring into the world. Eager to see how they fared, she threw off the covers and pulled the bell cord. Trudy appeared a few minutes later carrying her washing water.

“Morning, Miss Patty!” she said putting down the water. “Would you like me to bring you up a tray for breakfast? All the ladies are eating in their rooms this morning.”

“Yes, please. Oh, and can you bring down my grey dress? It could use a good cleaning after last night.”

“And what a night that was, Miss! Everyone’s talking about it belowstairs.” As she picked up the soiled garment Patience had draped over the dressing table chair, Trudy let out a gasp. “Oh my! Is this your engagement ring? How pretty it is!”

Patience, who had forgotten everything prior to the twins’ birth, lost some of her enthusiasm. “Yes, isn’t it? Now, please run along. I wish to set off to check on the Marlows as soon as possible.”

After Trudy had gone, she walked over to the dresser and picked up the ring. Its large diamond sparkled in the morning sun. It was difficult to believe she was truly engaged, and to Julius of all people! She could not deny that the attraction she felt for him was quite strong. But how could she be sure what lay in his heart? He had been so set against her from the very beginning, and she was so far removed from his ideal wife that she could not help but doubt his sentiments and words. He had acted like the perfect lover last night when only hours before he had thrown insults at her face. What had brought about this sudden change? Could it be the rumour of her supposed inheritance? As much as she wanted to believe it was not the case, she could not help but wonder at the possibility.

Trudy returned, putting an end to her ruminations. The maid set the loaded tray on the table by the window, and went to the wardrobe to select appropriate day clothes while Patience quickly washed. By the time she made her way to the front hall, carrying a basket loaded with such food items as Cook considered appropriate for a new mother and treats to keep the older children quiet, it was already past the noon hour.

She was greeted by Simmons who informed her that many of the guests had already departed.

“I am sure you will be glad to hear that Miss Arlington was among them,” he added in a conspiratorial voice.

“Now Simmons, you must know it would not be seemly of me to agree with you,” she chided.

The effect, however, was spoilt by the appearance of a mischievous twinkle in her eyes and a dimple in one cheek. Simmons smiled in turn, taking the basket from her and leading her to Lady Westbury, who stood on the front porch of the mansion, waving good-bye to the occupants of a carriage as it moved away from the house.

“You are finally awake, I see! What a splendid party that was, even if you did disappear before its conclusion! You would not believe the number of invitations that were proffered to us throughout the evening. You were a huge success, my dear!” Her aunt hugged her affectionately.

Patience returned the hug, happy for her aunt, whom she knew cared very much for such things, but silently thankful the ordeal was over.

“Now we must make sure to — ” Lady Westbury stopped short when she noticed Simmons standing in the doorway listening to their conversation.

“Isn’t there anything that requires your attention right now?”

“There is, my lady. My task is to wait by the front door and assist the departure of our remaining guests.”

As if to prove his point, voices could be heard approaching the doorway. Before Lady Westbury could do more than harrumph at the butler’s impudent speech, Patience retook the basket from Simmons, grabbed her aunt’s arm and steered her down the steps, not wishing to be delayed any further.

“Trudy informed me that a carriage was to be brought around as soon as I was ready, and here I see it coming now. Why don’t you accompany me to the Marlows’, and I can tell you all about last night.”

Patience did not give her aunt a chance to refuse as she urged her to accept the footman’s assistance to climb aboard. Patience was soon settled next to her, the basket of food at her feet.

“But I am not even wearing a hat!” exclaimed Lady Westbury as the carriage started forward.

“Oh, do not worry about that. The Marlows will not notice. Here, I will take mine off, too. That way, you will appear even less conspicuous.”

“You silly child.” Lady Westbury laughed in spite of herself. “And do not think I did not notice how you steered me away from Simmons before I could ring a peal over his head. Had he been in my employ, he would have found himself on the street long ago! But I must say there appears to be something different about the man. I cannot seem to put my finger on it, though.”

“You must be referring to the sound of his voice. I made him some syrup to help clear his nose. It seems to be working quite well.”

“That’s it! My, you
are
a little miracle worker! If he were not so badly behaved, I might almost bear with him now. You do not happen to have a syrup for that do you, dear?”

“Not yet, I am still working on that one!”

They reached the Marlows’ before Patience had a chance to tell her aunt about the previous night. As it turned out, the Marlows filled her in nicely, having nothing but praise for her niece. Belinda and Edward were simply adorable as they slept side by side in their cradle. If Lady Westbury thought it a strange choice of names, she kept it to herself. Nor did she seem surprised that Patience was treated like one of the family. She had long ago ceased to wonder at how her niece could charm all who came into contact with her. That was why she had known Julius would not be impervious to Patience. If the looks she had seen him bestow on Patience last night were any indication, he was, in her opinion, well on his way to falling head over heels in love with her. Only the most selfish of people, such as her brother, managed to remain unaffected by Patience’s charisma.

Lady Westbury watched with amusement as the children fought for her niece’s attention, willingly doing all they were told while Patience momentarily took charge of the household, issuing orders to make sure Mrs. Marlow would get plenty of opportunity to rest in the coming days. When everything had been arranged to Patience’s satisfaction, they returned to the house.

They were just in time to see Lord Bingham off.

“I expect you will be removing to London soon?” he inquired of his sister.

“Yes, tomorrow in fact. I will be taking Patience to live with me until the wedding. We will have much to do to get everything ready in time. And I suppose you will be taking up residence at your lodgings?”

“Yes, I am going there now. I also intend to remain in London until the wedding.” Lord Bingham stared at Patience with a meaningful look. She knew full well that brother and sister were talking about quite different weddings.

“Good, then I will expect you to do your duty and escort us to the more fashionable soirées.”

Patience looked at her aunt in surprise. Did that lady really think it safe to allow her father to come near her?

“It will be my pleasure.” Lord Bingham sauntered off whistling.

“Don’t you think it is unwise to let Papa escort us?” Patience asked once he was out of earshot.

“There is no need to worry child. Now that you are betrothed to Julius, your father would be very foolish to try any more of his tricks.”

“But he
is
very foolish, Aunt! In fact, he has made it quite clear that he did not consider my betrothal as the end of the matter.”

“Then it is a very good thing that you have Julius to watch over you, because he, my girl, is far from foolish!”

Another doubt crossed her mind. “I heard Papa spent the evening in the gaming room. I hope he did not cause the Earl any embarrassments?”

“You may be at rest on that score, my dear. From what I gather your father had quite a run of good luck. His pockets should be quite full for a time, unless he decides to gamble it all as soon as he gets the opportunity, which is more than likely, I am afraid.”

Patience’s uneasy feeling grew tenfold. Now that her father’s purse was replenished, there was nothing stopping him from getting that licence as soon as he reached London.

When their own time came to leave, Patience was surprised to find that Julius was to accompany them, leading the way in his phaeton. More surprising still was the proud figure of Jessup at the horses’ heads, neatly attired in a brand new suit, giving him the appearance of a well-behaved young man and not the overgrown scruffy boy she had gotten used to.

Catching her quizzical look, Julius moved to her side.

“I would not want highwaymen to interfere with your journey to London,” he said with a twinkle in his grey eyes. “Our presence should assure your safety.”

“Do you really mean to take Jessup to London?” she asked.

“Why not? I am hoping a change of scenery will do him good. It seems he has realized the flaws in his scheme of adopting the life of the underworld. He has now expressed a strong desire to learn more about the workings of Bow Street Runners firsthand. As he is likely to cause all sorts of trouble in our absence, especially now that the Marlows have their hands full with the twins, I deemed it more prudent to bring him along and see if I can find a way to accommodate him.”

She was touched by his act of kindness. However, she felt compelled to add, “You are not afraid he will turn your household upside down?”

“As for that, I consider myself an expert in the matter now.” He gave her a telling look. When she refused to rise to the bait, he added, “That reminds me, I have arranged for the construction of an extension to the greenhouse. For your sole use, of course.”

“Oh, you really should not have! I did not mean for you to go to so much trouble on my account! I am sure I can figure out another solution. Your library will not stay long in that state, I promise.”

“Please, that is exactly what I am trying to avoid! For all I know, you will decide that my bedroom is the perfect place to grow your specimens.”

Patience, unsure whether to take offence at these words or laugh them off, decided on the latter.

“You are the most enraging person I have ever met!”

“You may think of it as a wedding present, then.”

Patience was glad to find Lady Rutherford and her aunt approaching, thus putting an end to the conversation. She did not feel at ease discussing marriage with Julius. Until she found out more about her supposed inheritance, she would rather stick to safer topics.

“We should set off now if we do not wish to reach London too late.” Lady Westbury gave her friend a warm embrace. “And I hope to meet you there very shortly, Henrietta.”

“Oh, I expect I will set out in a few days. But I must recuperate my strength first. Packing can be so fatiguing, not to mention that I have not yet recovered from the ball.”

Patience had to hold back a giggle when she crossed Julius’ amused look. They were both aware that Lady Westbury had handled all the details concerning the ball and that Lady Rutherford’s capable maid would take care of the packing.

“Of course, dear. You must do what is best. But I urge you not to delay any longer than necessary. For you must know that your presence and show of approval to this marriage can only help Patience’s integration into Society, and put nasty tongues in their places.”

This view of the matter seemed to fortify Lady Rutherford a great deal, for she promised to meet them in London within a couple of days.

The ride to London proved to be uneventful. But it was not in the least boring to a young woman who had never been beyond a few miles of her country home.

She would have so much to tell Miss Thimble when she saw her next. Her old governess would not believe all she had been through in such a short time. Patience had of course written to her immediately upon her arrival at Hawkridge Manor to tell her that she was now safely with her aunt. But it had been a very brief note sent along with her aunt’s letter of recommendation.

She had left out many details such as her imminent betrothal to the Earl of Rutherford since at the time she had had no intention of going through with it, expecting to find a way out of her predicament. Instead, she may have solved another predicament, she suddenly realized. Being Countess Rutherford would finally give her the means to take care of Miss Thimble as well as Mr. and Mrs. Peters. She would much rather have achieved this on her own, but if the rumour of her inheritance turned out to be nothing but a hum, she would not let her pride get in the way of her friends’ welfare.