There was little Papa could do to force Elizabeth to wed a man who did not love her. Not if her aunt was on her side. Gavin might even help her.
An hour later she and her aunt were finishing up their tea when Broadwell entered the breakfast room carrying a silver salver. “A messenger brought a letter for Miss Elizabeth.”
Aunt Bristow held out her hand. “Give it to me.”
Elizabeth waited, feigning patience until her aunt opened the missive and read it. Aunt passed it to Elizabeth. “Harrington wishes you to accompany him on a carriage ride this afternoon, and he has requested a second set for this evening’s entertainment. Very proper”—her aunt smiled—“and unexpected.”
She scanned the note.
My dear Miss Turley,
It is my greatest desire that you ride with me this afternoon at five o’clock. It is also my wish that I be allowed to stand up with you for two sets this evening. I was remiss in not previously requesting the second dance.
Yr. devoted servant,
Harrington
Well. What was she to think of his invitations? She glanced at her aunt. “Thisis a surprise.”
“I am only amazed that he did not think of it before.” Aunt Bristow’s acerbic tone made Elizabeth grin. Her aunt looked at Broadwell. “Is his lordship waiting for a response?”
“Yes, my lady. I sent the lad to the kitchen for tea while Miss Elizabeth prepared one. Shall I send for him now?”
“Absolutely not,” Aunt said. “Miss Elizabeth shall finish breaking her fast. Then, and only then, will she pen her answer.”
“Yes, my lady.” The butler bowed.
Before he left the room Elizabeth said, “Please give the messenger some toast or biscuits as well.”
“I’m sure Cook is taking care of him, miss. Shall I bring you another pot of tea?”
The butler’s face remained impassive, but she thought she caught the corner of one lip twitch. “Yes, please.”
“It has occurred to me,” her aunt said, “that Harrington had been given to expect he shall always receive what he wishes. He will require proper handling if you are to marry and be happy.”
“I had come to much the same conclusion this morning.” She placed her fingers on her aunt’s hand. “Thank you.”
“I should have taken you in when your mother died. I regret that I did not.” Folding her lips, Aunt stared at the opposite wall. “Elizabeth, no matter what happens, you will always have a home with me.”
“Thank you,” Elizabeth said, thanking God that her wishes had come true. “You cannot know how much that means to me.”
Aunt gave a wry smile. “Oh, I think I might.”
It wasn’t until another half hour had passed that Elizabeth went to the morning room to write her acceptance. Even though Lord Harrington had exhibited good sense in asking her to drive with him, there was no point in appearing too eager.
She took her time mending her pen and formulating what she would say. Finally, she decided to be brief and to the point.
Dear Lord Harrington,
I shall be delighted to ride with you this afternoon. You may fetch me at five minutes to the hour.
Regards,
E. Turley
She read the letter over, sprinkled sand on the paper, sealed it, and rang for Broadwell. Her answer to his request for a second set could wait until this afternoon while they were on their drive.
A few moments later the butler entered the room. “Yes, miss?”
