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Just as soon as she said it, the four men turned and looked at Sarah, as though they’d heard of the event. They certainly didn’t look like the kind of men that would attend.
The milliner replied, “Oh yes, we have some new feathers that might be appropriate. Feathers are very much in fashion right now.”
Lisbeth said, “That is what I’ve heard! I’ve seen them often in London.”
“You girls are from London?”
“We have come to Hamel for the ball, as I mentioned,” Sarah explained.
“It’s very common this time of year for Londoners to descend upon Hamel for the duke’s ball. Some of the locals complain, but I think it’s marvellous. So much business to be had!” The milliner instantly appeared embarrassed that she’d stated such a thing.
She brought out the selection of feathers, and Sarah and Lisbeth inspected them. The men on the other side of the shop returned to their own business, and Sarah watched for a moment as the tall, handsome fellow stood on a box surrounded by mirrors as the haberdasher inspected him, taking measurements.
Sarah wasn’t keen on the feathers. She never cared for things that wereau courant, preferring classic styles, and timeless accessories. Sarah would much rather spend her money on a remarkable broach or embellished comb to put in her hair. Such items could be used for years to come. A feather, on the other hand, would only last for one season, at best.
“Would you like to try one?” the milliner asked.
“Oh, yes. Please,” Lisbeth said with relish.
A peacock feather was placed in her hair, and Sarah pursed her lips. It looked mildly ridiculous on her tiny sister, but if it was what made Lisbeth happy, then so be it.
Lisbeth turned to Sarah. “I want it.”
“Then, you shall have it.”
All in all, the girls settled on a brimmed blue cap for Sarah and the feather for Lisbeth. They walked over to the counter to pay for their purchases. As she did so, Sarah could overhear more of the men’s conversations.
The haberdasher said, “We have several used items if that suits your finances.”
The tall man nodded his head. “That would be most kind of you.”
“Three shillings,” the milliner said from behind the counter.
Sarah procured the coins from her reticule and handed them over with her gloved hand. The items were wrapped in fine paper then placed in a bag for Sarah and Lisbeth to carry on their way.
Upon leaving the shop, Sarah glanced over at the men one last time. The tall man was trying on the used coat as mentioned, and all in all, she thought he looked dashing in it. They secured eye contact once more before Sarah left the shop.
“That man was looking at you again,” Lisbeth said once they were out on the street.
“We are all prone to curiosity.”
“I suppose.”
Before going to the Duke of Faversham’s estate, Sarah and Lisbeth walked a bit more, and Lisbeth convinced her sister to purchase ice cream, something that was novel, but Sarah had tried it once in London.
Lisbeth selected chocolate, and Sarah chose strawberry. They found a cozy bench to eat their treats.
“I’m not looking forward to the ball,” Sarah said.
“I am. All the pageantry.”
“You’ll learn with time, Lisbeth, that the pageantry is not exciting in the least. Books are exciting. Museums are exciting. Sitting and watching the Thames.”
“I’m told that the Duke of Faversham has a fine library.”
“That he does.” At the remembrance of it, Sarah instantly filled with excitement. “I may perhaps spend the whole evening ensconced there.”
Lisbeth crinkled her nose. “That would be most rude.”
