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“An interesting philosophy.”
“I’ve read widely on the subject of children’s education. I support the learned philosophers who argue that children’s natural inclinations and interests should guide their studies. Though most of the philosophers are not keen on the education of females, which I think should be a right and not a privilege.”
“Bit of a bluestocking, are you?” He regarded her with interest.
“Not particularly. I form my opinions from what I observe. Michel and Adele are equally intelligent and resourceful... and resilient.”
He didn’t deny it, which was more endearing than she was willing to admit.
“What do they miss most about France, do you think? Besides their nurse,” he asked.
“They spoke at great lengths about the inferiority of English bread. Apparently it’s doughy, crustless, and lacks any kind of flavor at all.”
He laughed. “Noted.”
“And they miss the seashore.”
“I’m learning more about the children from you, than you’ll ever learn from me, Miss Perkins.”
She shrugged modestly. “It’s my job to make these observations. Any governess would do the same.”
“No, I don’t believe so.” When had his eyes lost their shadows? “You’re not like other governesses, as far as I can tell. You’re witty, confident, highly intelligent...” His gaze searched her face. “Whyareyou a governess? A gentleman’s daughter with such winning attributes could have her pick of suitors.”
Had she told him she was a gentleman’s daughter? She didn’t think she’d told him such a lie. He must be making assumptions because she’d come from Mrs. Trilby’s agency.
This was an extremely dangerous line of questioning.
Say something off-putting.
Leave immediately.
“Marriage is hardly the solution to every female’s problems, Your Grace,” she said tartly.
“It would surely be preferable tothis.”
“Caring for other people’s children instead of my own, you mean? Perhaps.”
“What of your parents? Don’t they wish you to marry?”
Stay as close to the truth as possible and leave swiftly.
“I never knew my mother,” she said carefully. “And my father was a distant figure. Being a governess is my lot in life.” She rose from her chair. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, it’s growing late and I must be going.”
He rose as well. “I didn’t mean to anger you.”
“You’re just being you.”
He stepped closer. “And what’s that supposed to mean?”
“Nothing.”
“No, please tell me. I want to know why you have such a bad opinion of me on such short acquaintance.”
“It’s not you, in particular. It’s dukes, in general.”
“I see. It’s my rank that bothers you.”
“Dukes breathe such rarified air. You’ve lost the ability to think as a commoner. The eagle never catches flies, as they say.”
