“Very good. I look forward to seeing it. Good night.”
“Good night, Katie.”
Violet pulled the pins out of hair, and her rich brunette locks fell around her shoulders. She picked up her brush and began brushing until it shone. Then she braided it and tied the end with a ribbon before sitting at the desk in the corner, where she found paper, quills, and an inkpot. It was time to tell Daphne her good news.
Dearest Daphne,
I’ve followed your sage advice, and even though I’ve spent time with the Duke of Richmond, my heart still belongs to Lord Alesbury. The duke was gracious when I told him my heart belonged to another, although Mama wasn’t pleased when I told her of my choice. Edgerton supports my decision to marry the man I love and told me not to fret over Mama.
The family has traveled to Blakely Manor in Bellericay to host a garden party for the locals now that the manor’s renovations are complete. I was unhappy at first to be away from London for five days, but the manor and grounds are lovely. I look forward to visiting the village tomorrow and getting to know the locals.
Perhaps Lord Alesbury will make his affection known at the Wollard ball Saturday next. That’s my fervent wish. I shall write again soon.
Your devoted friend,
Violet
Violet sanded and folded the letter before slipping into bed. She couldn’t help but wonder if Lord Alesbury would indeed propose to her when they returned to London. Had he already talked with her brother about proposing? She hoped he realized how much she loved him. He meant everything to her, and she longed to be dancing in his arms again. It was a long time before sleep took her.
The next morning after breakfast, Violet, Emma, Julia, decided to walk the mile to Billericay village. Edgerton insisted they take two imposing footmen with them. In no time at all, they reached the quaint center of town. It was a small village but still boasted a moderately sized inn and stables, a church, a general store, and various other small shops.
“I hope they have new ribbons,” Julia gushed as she hurried inside the general store.
Violet, Emma, and Katie followed on her heels. They were delighted to find the store sold everything from flour and sugar to fabrics and accessories.
“These are so pretty,” Julia cried, holding up various shades of pink ribbon. “Won’t they look perfect with my dress for the garden party?”
A middle-aged woman with a few gray streaks at her temples walked over to them. “Good morning, ladies. I’m Mrs. Thatcher. May I help you find something to your liking?”
Violet turned to the woman and smiled. “Good morning, Mrs. Thatcher. What a delightful store. You have a beautiful selection of ribbons and fabrics.”
Mrs. Thatcher nodded. “Thank you.”
“I’m Miss Bainbridge, and these are my sisters, Miss Emma and Miss Julia, and my maid, Katie. My brother, Lord Edgerton, owns Blakely Manor.”
“Delighted to meet you all,” Mrs. Thatcher said. “I hear tell that Lord Edgerton’s planning a garden party and the locals are invited.”
“Yes. Lady Edgerton and my mother are planning the details today. It will be lovely to meet our new neighbors,” Violet said.
“It’s wonderful to see the manor occupied again. It’s been in disrepair for far too long. Does your family plan to stay long?”
Violet shook her head. “Merely three days this trip, but I’m sure we’ll be back many times throughout the year. The area is quite lovely.”
“It is indeed. Now, what may I help you with?” Mrs. Thatcher asked.
After spending almost two hours at the various shops in the village, the girls headed back to the manor, where Julia burst into the parlor. “Mama, you must see my beautiful new ribbons.”
Lavinia was chatting with Courtney about last-minute details for the garden party. She smiled at her youngest daughter. “From your enthusiasm, I surmise you found the village to your liking.”
“Indeed. Mrs. Thatcher runs the general store and has the most beautiful fabrics and ribbons.”
Violet stepped into the parlor and handed Courtney and her mother each a package wrapped in brown paper. “I saw these and immediately thought of you both. I do hope you like them.”
The two women opened the paper to reveal stunning wool shawls. “Oh, Violet, it’s quite beautiful and so soft,” Courtney said. “What a lovely thing to do. Thank you.”
“Mama, do you like the color I choose for you?” Violet asked.
Lavinia looked at her eldest daughter with tears in her eyes. “I do indeed. This blue is such a beautiful shade. Thank you for choosing this for me.”
