Jane eventually chose a room she liked, with a view of the back garden.
Inquiring about the nursery, Elizabeth was informed it was on the upper floor. She frowned, “That will not work, I want Alex near me.”
“If you please, pray follow me.” Mrs Fletcher bustled off, back towards the master and mistress’s chambers. Entering a room, the first thing she did was open the drapes to let in light.
“Lady Carrington, Master Gregory’s mother, was fond of her babies and she too did not want to be so separated from them.” She walked through what apparently were the dressing and bathing rooms to a wall on the far side.
A hidden latch opened the door to another spacious room. They all followed Mrs Fletcher through the door.
“I am afraid this room is dusty. It has not been used in many years.” She walked around the room removing sheet coverings to reveal a large crib and a rocking chair, and bookcases lined one wall. A dresser and bed took up another wall.
She pointed, “Through that door is a smaller room for the nurse.” Mrs Fletcher turned to face all the women. “This was originally a bedroom, with a dressing room attached. Lady Carrington altered these for her own personal nursery.”
“It is wonderful. She had such an eye for colour, the fabrics and furnishings are somewhat faded, but the style is classic and charming.” Taking a slow circular turn, Elizabeth was impressed with the room.
“Lizzy, Alex will be so happy here.” Jane walked over to inspect the nurse’s bedroom. “It is so large; I was concerned it would be small.”
“You will find most dressing rooms in Mayfair are on the larger size. It takes space to fit in hundreds of dresses.” The lines surrounding the housekeeper’s eyes were showing their use, folded up by a beaming smile.
Jane mouthed,hundreds, her eyes wide while Elizabeth attempted to suppress her horror at the thought of enduring themodisteappointments for so many dresses.
“Well, I am pleased all these rooms are at the back of the house. We will not be exposed to the street or prying eyes.” Lucy was still holding back the drapery and Elizabeth could see the garden at the back of the house, “At least that will not require fixing.”
“What was that, dear?” Mrs Gardiner walked over to join her.
“The garden seems as though it has been well taken care of.” Elizabeth raised her voice for all to hear.
“Yes, madam. The viscountess was proud of the garden and often took tea there with her callers during the Season.”
After another moment viewing the garden, Elizabeth clapped hands once. “Speaking of tea, now that we have chosen our rooms, let us take some refreshments whilst we discuss the staff and what minimum requirements are necessary to open the house and make it habitable?” She grinned and shooed everyone out of the room. “The bare minimum, mind. We shall not be entertaining, aside from family and a few friends.”
Tea was consumed in the small upstairs parlour, and many notes were taken. Finally, Elizabeth made her regrets. “I will need to leave soon; I have to return to Alex.”
“Time to discuss a wet nurse again? You will be much busier now than you had been these past couple of months.”
“No, Aunt. Not right now. However, I am thinking a secretary may be useful.” She was only half jesting.
“I can do that, Lizzy.” Jane had been quiet since sitting down for tea, and her sister and aunt both looked at her now.
“I beg your pardon? You certainly shall not.”
Jane recognised the fiery glint in her sister’s eyes. “Lizzy, I want to be of use.”
“Jane, your company is all I want or require.”
“But what shall I do here all day?”
One of Elizabeth’s brows lifted in a familiar way, “You shall meet people, Jane. Socialise, dance at a ball, go to Gunters for ices with Miss Darcy or other friends you shall make.”
Jane grew pale, “You know my thoughts about socialising in Town.”
Elizabeth took Jane’s hand and led her over to the window, “Look outside, Jane. What do you see?”
Confused, Jane stammered out, “A street, carriages, people, the park.”
“Mayfair, Jane. You are now the aunt of an earl. There may be some gossip, and we might not be accepted into everyone’s drawing rooms, but things have changed. You will meet someone, Jane. Someone you can love, with whom you may have children of your own.” Throwing an arm around her, Elizabeth hugged Jane to her side. Adding in a quiet voice near her sister’s ear. “Someone who will love you in return. Please say you will try at least.”
Elizabeth could feel the tension in Jane’s body. Even as she heard her sister say she would try, Elizabeth feared Jane’s walls were as high as ever.
