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The older woman had dull, gray hair that must have been dark in her youth, but the struggles she’d endured in her lifetime had made her appear much older than her middle-aged years. The deep grooves in her face told of hardships that Calliope could not try to comprehend as a duke’s daughter. The instant she’d met the lady, Calliope had been thankful that she’d made this journey, as the funds she had promised her to provide for a personal guide along the cliffs would go far to help the woman’s destitution.
“Please call me Molly. Everyone else does, and you’ll find that most of the locals here don’t stand on ceremony.” She smiled.
Calliope returned her greeting with a wide grin. “Then I must insist that you call me Callie. All my sisters do.”
Molly inclined her head, but something told Calliope that she would reference her by her honorific because Calliope was a member of the aristocracy, and not just another shopkeeper in town.
As they entered her store, Molly gestured to the various fossils and rocks on display around them with obvious pride. “My Joseph and Mary go out every day and search the shore surrounding the cliffs. They have brought back all the treasures you see around you, including the prehistoric fossil you mentioned in Mr. Bullock’s collection.”
Calliope nodded. “I assure you that he is quite proud of it and is eager to discuss it with anyone who might listen.”
“I imagine so. The children certainly delighted in finding it.” She shook her head. “Oh, listen to me carrying on. Of course, that was several years ago, and they are grown now. Although they haven’t found anything quite so impressive since then, Mary is determined not to give up the search.” Her wizened eyes were assessing as they lit on Calliope. “Something tells me you are just as bold as my girl, so between the two of you, I imagine you will uncover a masterpiece.”
“I don’t know about that. Although I shall do my best to try.” Calliope winked. “I merely appreciate you giving me the chance to tag along and learn a thing or two from her experience.”
“Have you searched for fossils before?” Molly asked.
“I regret that I have not,” Calliope admitted as she strolled slowly about the room, inspecting each bone, rock, and artifact that was on display. Some of which were so intricate that she couldn’t even begin to describe what they were. “My father never cared much for the sea air, nor London, for that matter, so I fear my expertise if very limited.” She returned her attention to her hostess. “However, if you are interested in embroidery or the latest fashion plates from Paris, I would be more than happy to share my knowledge.”
The lady laughed. “I fear I have little need for such fripperies at my age.”
Calliope could have kicked herself for being so careless of this woman’s situation. It was obvious by the simple, serviceable gown she had on, which was practically worn through in places, the hem adjusted accordingly, that even if Mrs. Anning might wish for a dress from Bond Street, she would never be able to afford it in her lifetime.
A sense of shame abruptly washed over Calliope. She felt guilty for her lavish upbringing, as anything she could have ever wanted was at her fingertips. Even her ladies’ maid wore better attire than this woman.
A thought occurred to her, but if she didn’t wish to offend the lady further, she would have to be careful in carrying out the plan brewing in her mind.
She put a thoughtful finger to her lips. “Is there a seamstress in town, by chance? I daresay this might not suit the harsh, salty sea air.” She lifted a section of her muslin gown to the side.
“Yes, you are quite right,” Molly murmured. “Mrs. Bastine is the only one in the village. I’ve heard she’s quite accomplished, although I can’t say that for certain as I make my own gowns.”
“I appreciate the suggestion,” Calliope returned. “I shall have to pay her a visit soon.” She clasped her hands before her and said brightly, “Shall we get started searching today?”
“If you’d like. I know you’re eager to get started,” Molly returned. “Mary will be down at the shore as she generally is, so she will be easy to find.” She lifted a brow. “Of course, tomorrow is the Sabbath, so we attend church in the morning and generally Mary and Joseph go down to the cliffs in the afternoon. You’re welcome to join us if you’d like.”
It had been years since Calliope had entered a sanctuary of any kind, but since she was grateful this woman had allowed her into her life so graciously, and she didn’t wish to offend that hospitality, she said, “I should like that very much.” She scrunched up her nose with a smile. “But now, it’s time to go exploring.”
