Page 1 of An Inconvenient Duke

Prologue

April 1814

To General Marcus Braddock

Coldstream Guards, 2nd Battalion,

Household Division

Bayonne, France

Dear General Braddock,

It is with a grieving heart that I write to you to tell you of the passing of your sister Elise.

There was a terrible accident. She was on her morning ride in the park and was thrown from her horse. The horse guards who found her assured me that she did not suffer. While there is nothing I can write that will lessen your pain, I pray you might find some comfort in that.

I know that your attention must now be fixed on your men and on the fight you are waging against Napoleon, but please be assured that I will do everything I can to support your sister Claudia and Elise’s daughter, Penelope, while you are away.

Yours in shared grief—

Danielle Williams

June 1814

To the Honorable Danielle Williams

No. 2 Bedford Square, Mayfair

London, England

Dear Miss Williams,

Although the news was bitter, I thank you for your kind letter. It brings me solace to know that Elise was so dearly loved by you. I am more grateful than I can express to know that you are looking after Claudia and Pippa during this time of mourning.

With gratitude—

Marcus Braddock

January 1816

To the Honorable Danielle Williams

No. 2 Bedford Square, Mayfair

London, England

Dear Miss Williams,

My regiment’s work in Paris will be ending soon, and I will be returning to London. I would very much appreciate the opportunity to call on you. I wish to thank you in person for the kindnesses that you and your aunt have shown to my family during my absence.

Yours sincerely,

Marcus Braddock

February 1816

To General Marcus Braddock