Page 21 of Almost a Countess

“He wore a kilt?” Puzzled,Violet looked from her husband to Dora. “That’s consideredtreason?”

Tris nodded. “From what LieutenantScarlet told me, it’s tantamount to it.”

“I heard it violatessomething called The Dress Act.” Dora had to slip that little factin.

“The Dress Act?” Tristurned an inquisitive eye on her. “How do you know about that,Dora?”

Licking her lips, Dora pulled outevery ounce of subterfuge she possessed. “Lord Haxby spoke of itwhen I was staying with Judith. He was a family friend, and is nowher husband. When he inherited the earldom, it included severalestates in Scotland. He told us about a tenant there who’d brokenthat law.” Amazed as lie after lie tumbled from her lips, Dora washelpless to stop. “He said the law is rather stringent in itspunishments, but breaking it is not considered treason.”

“No, usually it’s not.”Tris looked at her strangely, but she must carry on and discover asmuch as she could about what he knew.

“Do you know what theusual penalty is?” Fearing he could hear her very thoughts—which atthe moment were only about Lord Aberfoyle—Dora attempted to turnthe subject to Tris.

“Six months of prison fora first offense, if I remember correctly.” Tris stirred his tea.“Transportation for a second.”

“Did the lieutenant tellyou that?” She needed to make certain Scarlet knew the actual law.He should have done, but she’d like corroboration.

“No.” Tris frowned, apuzzled look on his face. “That particular law has been discussedin the Lords several times since I took my seat.” He peered at her.“Are you interested in it for some reason, Dora?”

“Not particularly.” With ashrug, Dora tried to affect disinterest. “When Lord Haxby spoke ofit, I found it fascinating that wearing a simple piece of clothingcould have such dire consequences. Still,” she shook her head,“according to the law, it’s not treason.” From the pensive lookTris had leveled at her, Dora should stop speaking immediately.Somehow, she couldn’t. “So if one broke that law they should be putin prison or transported, not hanged for treason.”

“That is correct.” Tristapped a finger against his lips. “You seem to be well versed inthis law, Dora. Pity the knowledge will do you no goodwhatsoever.”

“I suppose not.” Shelaughed, but it was forced, and Tris could surely tell. “But it wasinteresting to hear how the laws work.”

“Dora, are you quite well,my dear?” Violet leaned over to pat her hands. “You’re ratherpale.”

“I beg your pardon. I’mnot used to company now, Violet. I’m so alone at Bromley with justthe servants and Larkin for company. I suppose I don’t know how toact around others anymore.” There was truth in that statement, atleast. “Do forgive me if I seem strange.”

“Think nothing of it, mydear.” Violet squeezed her hands. “Now we will be in residence hereyou need not be so lonely anymore. You must come stay with me hereand we can plan an entertainment for you. Tris, you know thefamilies hereabout do you not? We can introduce Dora tothem.”

“A fine idea, my love,although you mustn’t overdo.” He slid his arm around his wife’sshoulders. “You’re carrying my heir, God willing, and we must takeno chances with him. Or her.”

“Thank you so much, mydears.” Dora rose, wishing fervently to return home now she wascertain Lord Aberfoyle had indeed told her the truth. Not thatshe’d doubted him, exactly, but Trish’s information made her moreapt to accept his lordship’s word. She also needed to inform theearl of the imminent visit and the idea she had to avoid hisdetection when the soldiers came. “I fear Violet will be overtiredif I stay longer. You have been traveling so recently I’m afraidyou need much more rest. I will call on you again in a few days,when you are both more settled in.”

“When you return, we mustengage the mantua maker to repair your wardrobe, Dora.” Violet roseslowly and embraced her friend. “Tris is having my harp sent outfrom London. We can continue our lessons and play a concert forTris before long.” Her eyes twinkled. “Perhaps for some of theneighbors.” Impulsively, she hugged Dora again. “We will find you agentleman who will love you as he ought to, Dora. I know he’s theresomewhere,” she whispered.

“I pray that is true,” shereplied, Lord Aberfoyle’s face rising in her mind.

“Allow me to escort youhome, Dora.” Tris offered her his arm.

She took it but thought furiously ofan excuse for him not to accompany her. “That is very thoughtful ofyou, Tris, but I must insist you stay to take care of Violet.” Shedropped her voice conspiratorially. “She looked tired, but I’mcertain she would not rest until you return.” If anything wouldkeep him here, it was his devotion to his wife. “I have Alfred toaccompany me, and the house is less than a mile from here. I shallbe home and changing for dinner in no time.”

“I suspect you are right,my dear.” He led her to the massive stone foyer. “Violet does needto rest.” He peered into her face, and Dora caught her breath atthe keen concern there. “However, I will also make certain youarrive safely. If I cannot accompany you myself, allow me to sendyou home in my carriage.”

“That is very generous andconsiderate of you, Tris. Thank you.” A good compromise, and onethat would not reveal her secret.

“I can never repay yourkindness, Dora, in allowing me to marry Violet. Anything I can dofor you, anything at all, you have but to name it and it is yours.”He lifted her hand to his lips and grazed them over herknuckles.

At that moment, shealmost—almost—confided in him. She needed advice regarding LordAberfoyle from someone who was worldly enough to know the bestcourse for him. Tris would be one such man, but that protectivestreak would outstrip any other consideration. He’d probably killthe earl if he knew the man was residing under her roof. His desireto keep her safe and her reputation intact would override anythought for her wishes or happiness. She therefore must keep herown council involving the earl for a little while longer. “Thankyou, Tris. I will consider that offer—when the timecomes.”

“Very well, then. Let mecall for the carriage.”

They stood talking of inconsequentialthings until the luxurious black lacquered Town coach with theTrevor crest on the doors pulled up to the steps.

Tris handed her in and shut the door.“Until your return, Dora. I pray it is as swift as Apollo’shorses.”

“Flatterer.”