“It is. I do not yet know how much we’ll require on a weekly basis, but we can start with five hundred.” Nate glanced out the window. He’d almost forgotten it was raining. “Tomorrow will be soon enough.”
“If it stops pouring?” his secretary gave a wry smile. “It is England.”
“I suppose you’re right. If I had more than one pair of boots, I’d go out. But Styles was right when he said that only one of my pairs was suitable for Town and advised leaving the other pair at home.”
“I’ll send a footman to the post office and I’ll go to the bank.” Styles pulled out a large piece of foolscap and began to cut it. “They will be ready soon.”
“I’ll have the town coach brought around for you. That will keep you a little dryer.” Nate would have to send for the unmarked carriage. Fortunately, the vehicle had a convertible cover to protect the coachman from the weather.
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” It was the least he could do.
Now if only he could work out a way to see Miss Stern again and be properly introduced to her. On the other hand, he might be better served waiting for his mother to arrange it. The question was, how long would it take?
CHAPTERTEN
After consuming the tea and biscuits, Henrietta decided to move to her parlor. The rain was still coming down in buckets, and there was no sign at all that it would end soon. Fortunately, one of the things she had purchased was a stout umbrella. As soon as it arrived, she could take advantage of it. But for now, she could curl up on the comfortable sofa in her parlor, which was warmed by the fire. She had removed her slippers and tucked her feet under the light, cashmere day dress she had donned.
A few minutes later, Parkin knocked on the door of her parlor and entered. “Miss Henrietta, a letter has arrived for you from the Duchess of Bristol.”
“Thank you, Parkin.” She took the letter, popped the seal, and opened it.
My dearest Henrietta,
I arrived in Town and am residing at the Pultney Hotel. I would like you to join me for luncheon the day after tomorrow. After which we shall find something to occupy our time.
Your Grandmother,
B.
“I did not even know she was back in the country. I wonder what brought her to Town?” she mused to herself.
“I couldn’t say, miss,” Parkin said. “Will you respond to her missive?”
She had forgotten he was still there and smiled ruefully. “Even though this is more in the line of a royal command than a request, I suppose I should.”
“I should say so.” He sounded so offended at the notion that she might not send her grandmother an answer, she almost laughed.
“Give me a few moments.” She went to her desk and scribbled a hasty note, telling her grandmother how happy she was to be able to see her again. Once Henrietta had sealed it, she handed the letter to him. “There you are.”
“Thank you, miss.” The butler bowed and left.
She wondered if her sister knew their grandmother was here. No. Dotty would have mentioned it. And when had Grandmamma returned from the Continent? Henrietta supposed all her questions would have to wait to be answered. What she really wanted was to know what to do about Fotherby. She could not see her grandmother helping with that problem. In fact, none of her family would be helpful. Dorie might be able to assist, but the problem was that she had not met him either.
Henrietta pulled out a piece of paper and was sharpening her pen when a knock sounded on her door and it opened.
Parkin entered and bowed. “The Marchioness of Exeter to see you, miss.”
“Dorie, I was just thinking of you.” Henrietta led her friend to a small sofa. “But what are you doing out in this weather?”
“Oh, pooh. I am not going to let a bit of rain keep me inside.” The corners of her lips twitched. “I have been terribly extravagant. I had them bring the coach around, and a footman armed with a large umbrella escorted me to and from the carriage. I will have to send a note when I wish to return.”
“I can send you safely home with a footman and the large umbrella.” Henrietta frowned. “If Merton has not taken it.” The thing was so big and heavy, she had never been tempted to use it herself. “I do not suppose the umbrella you bought has arrived yet?”
“No. I do not expect to see it until later today or tomorrow.” Dorie sank on to the sofa. “It is nice and warm in here.”
“It is. I was in the library and it started to become a bit chilly. This room is much easier to keep warm.”
