Lady Brittany's Love (5 page)

Chapter Nine

“Lord Samuel, I’d suggest the planned drive be postponed? It seems someone waits until we’re out before breaking in. With two failed attempts at night, next they could try coming in the daytime which would be dangerous for us and the household. Since the Hersey tome has recently found a home here, I’m certain they’re after the tome,” Eli said.

“I agree we cancel the excursion. If someone, namely Hersey, is after the volume do you have a suggestion on how to protect the book?” Samuel asked.

“Father, I might be able to answer part of your question,” Brittany announced, stepping around Samuel, causing him to start.

“Yes?”

“Lord Samuel and I noticed something unusual when reviewing the book. Unlike other copies this one contains author notes, or so we believe, in the margin for supposed later printings.”

“And so far, from the few pages we’ve seen neither of us are able to make any sense out of the passages,” Samuel added, hoping neither would catch him in the lie as he already suspected what some meant.

“Shall we join the countess? We can discuss what direction we next undertake?” Eli suggested.

Samuel turned, offered his arm to Brittany and escorted her back to the divan where her mother waited patiently. Giving her a relaxed smile he took a seat across the table from the ladies. He started to bring up the topic of the next day only to be interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Enter,” the earl called out.

He watched as John led Quinn into the room, happy to see the man had at least put on a clean shirt before coming over. Of all the men who’d served with him in the Guards, this individual had frequently been dressed down or put on bread and water as his uniform had frequently been a mess. Later, Samuel learned the reason for Quinn’s untidiness. When off duty Quinn would spend time in the stables. What had made the man’s reason more interesting, his gentle way with Samuel’s stallion. To that end Samuel made him his groom.

His decision turned out to be excellent as both Quinn and Tempest were not only giants but calm, except when pushed into doing something neither wanted. Hard on the outside, soft on the inside. Quinn had the ability to get information from someone who wouldn’t give it up, usually without laying a hand on the person.

“Well, what were you able to learn from the prisoner? And Quinn, be respectful of the ladies sensitivities,” Samuel ordered.

“Certainly, m’ lord. The man told me he’d been ordered to break into here, attempt to steal a book, and that it would most likely be on a table by itself. Then, once the book was in hand, deliver it to the Drunken Sailor, which is near The Pool. There he’d be given the other half of his payment.”

“Did he tell you which book?” Brittany asked.

“I’m sorry, but he didn’t.”

Samuel realized immediately this could be a significant detail. He glanced from Quinn to Eli, who then nodded to continue the interrogation of his man.

“Were you able to get a description of the person who hired the thief?”

“Tall, well turned out such as you, m’ lord, and the earl. He also spoke as one educated so I’d guess he’s one of the
ton
. I’m sorry but that’s all the man was able to tell me. Oh, and I can assure you I didn’t touch him at all. M’ lord, he’s as healthy now as when caught and John can attest to that fact,” Quinn said with a toothy grin then bowed.

What Samuel found interesting about this report as with others from the past, there wasn’t any expression on Quinn’s face or in his voice. This had been and continued to be an amazing attribute about the man. People Quinn talked to were frightened of him and would cower, spilling any and all information.

“Thank you,” Samuel told him with a dismissing nod then glanced to Eli.

“John send for Bow Street and have the captive removed. Let them deal with him.”

“Yes, m’ lord,” the butler said, then ushered Quinn from the room.

With the parlor cleared of staff Samuel looked to the ladies and Eli, seeing the narrowing of their expressions. They were as puzzled as Samuel. With this vague information he didn’t know how to proceed in finding the person or persons responsible for the attempted theft.

The countess gave him a faint smile then a subtle glance to her husband. Samuel was happy to see a change in the earl’s demeanor, for the better.

“M’ lady, might you have a doable suggestion as to preserve the safety of the tome?” Samuel asked, hoping he’d not overstepped his bounds.

“I believe so,” Barbara stated. She kept her gaze on her husband. “Parliament rises at the end of next week until after the holidays. I know you’re heavily involved with several bills but what if we depart within the next few days to the country. This, of course, will turn everyone on their ear, which could confuse Lord Hersey, or whoever is after the book. At the estate we’ll have better protection as we can enlist the tenants to be on the lookout for strangers.”

“That is a wonderful proposal as you will have more time to prepare for our annual Christmas ball. By staying in town until the last minute I know everything is rushed and you’ve never been totally pleased with the end results,” the earl concluded.

“If I might say,” Samuel added, “I do wholeheartedly believe Lady Sexton, you have the perfect solution to the dilemma as in doing so will protect everyone and the book.” He hoped an invitation to join them would be forthcoming. Not only did he wish to learn the secrets of the book but continue his quest for Brittany’s hand.

Not wishing to appear anxious, Samuel studied Eli as he evaluated the suggestions from his daughter and wife.

“Lord Samuel, I’m taking the recommendation of the ladies. Retiring to the country will be to our best advantage. With the countess’ permission I would like to invite you to travel with us. This way you’ll be able to continue your studies of the book in preparation for your journey to Africa. Also, between you and our daughter working together, you might uncover the reason this edition is of such an interest to someone.”

“It would be my honor to join your family at the estate. That is, with the ladies’ permission?”

From the expression he perceived from Barbara he knew she would welcome him joining them. On the other hand, the mild scowl from Brittany told him she wasn’t sure about him being in the same mansion as she. Now, he knew he would have to take the offensive to accompany them.

“M’ lady, it would be my honor to spend whatever time is necessary with you, except Lady Brittany isn’t of the same mind. If you can convince her, then I’m more than willing to join you at your country estate.”

“It’s not that I wouldn’t wish you to join us, but the library at the estate is much smaller than here. I had hoped to garner enough information from the book so I’d know which ones to bring with me,” Brittany told Samuel.

“Lady Brittany, I don’t understand. Wouldn’t the estate library be as extensive as or more so than here?” Samuel asked, puzzled.

“No. We keep the main collection here. Frequently, learned scholars visit to examine works as our collection is extensive, but you already know that. Years ago the books had been kept in the country but travel became difficult for some of the more elderly to make the trip. I decided to remake the ballroom into what you currently see and moved the books here. Now, academics are able to visit easily, much to their delight. When we’re not in residence John knows who is permitted into the library and who is not,” Eli explained.

“Then, that’s what this person wants from you. Remember Quinn said the thief was told to grab a book, not necessarily the one written by Hersey. The mastermind wants us to retreat to the country where they will easily be able to get their hands on it,” Samuel explained, to nods of understanding from everyone.

“So Lord Samuel what would you suggest we do? If we stay here he’ll send more thieves and someone could get hurt,” Eli asked.

“You do precisely what Lady Sexton suggested. Go to the estate, except leave the book here with Lady Wallace. I’m assuming she, along with Lord Cole, will be joining us at the estate. She can bring it with her,” Samuel recommended, glancing to Brittany.

“Yes, they planned to arrive a few days before the Christmas ball, but if she’s willing, which I’m sure she will be, they can arrive much earlier,” Barbara answered.

Now Samuel had a problem. With Christmas ten days away, when would Lady Wallace arrive thus giving him time to look over the book. Of course, Brittany would be at his side, which pleased him. If he could convince Lord Eli to depart within the next two days then everything might work as needed. He’d have enough time to study the notes in the margin and attempt to win his beloved’s heart.

“That would be perfect. As soon as you hear back I can contact Lord Cole to arrange passing the book to him.”

“Lord Samuel, when you hand it over I wish to be with you. I know from what Sally briefly told me earlier I do approve of him. I just want to make sure he understands how important the book is,” Brittany stated.

“I have no problem agreeing with your request. Actually, I was thinking we call on Lady Wallace and pass it along. This way she’ll be aware of everything thus nothing will come as a surprise to her.”

Samuel was happy when she nodded her agreement to his suggestion, as she would be more comfortable, which he needed.

“I’d recommend, Lady Brittany, in the morning you post a note inquiring if we might visit within the next day or so for tea.”

“Oh, that won’t be necessary as I have my godmother’s permission to visit whenever I desire. If you’re agreeable we can stop over tomorrow afternoon.” Brittany paused and looked to her parents. “Then the following morning leave for the estate?”

“Yes, I will notify certain lords in Parliament I’ll be leaving early but refrain from explaining why,” Eli said with a smile.

“And it won’t be a problem for arranging to move the household either. I will post a letter to Mrs. Garrett of our early arrival and the inclusion of you, Lord Samuel, so a suite may be readied,” Barbara told him.

“Thank you. As it’s late and we’ve much to do over the next day or so I will bid you all a good evening,” Samuel uttered, then strolled from the parlor, down to the ground floor where he collected his cape and stepped out and into the waiting Bemming carriage.

Chapter Ten

Annoyed by the sun warming her face, Brittany forced her lids open. Rolling over she started to bury her head under the linen when she heard her suite door creak open. Silently cursing the noise, she held tightly to the sheets knowing what would happen next. She heard Aggie cross the room to the bed.

“Don’t even think about it. You well know I only set my head down a few short hours ago,” she snapped.

“As you wish, m’ lady. I should point out the time is past noon. His Lordship will be here soon. While you take care of your needs I’ll lay out your green gown which Her Ladyship recommended as it fits the season we are entering. The countess has also requested the pleasure of your company before meeting with Lord Samuel.”

“Please inform mother I will join her in her private parlor once I dress,” Brittany instructed Aggie.

“At once, m’ lady. I’ll return to help you and set your hair in a comfortable style for the day.”

With a nod Brittany slipped into her private room and took care of her needs. Freshly cleaned she stepped into the bedroom in time to see her maid laying out the requested dress along with the necessary undergarments.

“Aggie, pray tell is Mother upset I slept so late.”

“No, m’ lady, and she instructed me to notify you she’s ordered luncheon trays,” Aggie responded back with a knowing smile.

Brittany suspected she might not be in trouble, not that she’d done anything untoward of late. At least she didn’t believe so. Then again, what she might not think wrong, her parents could, so there was no way of telling why her mother wished to see her.

Dressed and her waist length light brown hair set simply she took one last glance in the mirror. Satisfied with how she looked, both for her mother then later Samuel, she scooped up the matching shawl from the bed and strolled into the hall.

At the door to the countess’ parlor she started to take in a calming breath when she heard…

“Rest easy, my dear, you’re not in trouble. I only wanted to talk with you before you met with Lord Samuel. Also, considering the time I thought we might enjoy a pleasant simple luncheon. So, please step in and not worry,” her mother called out through the closed door.

Releasing a half breath she did as directed. Taking a seat in an over-stuffed chair and with the smile from her mother, Brittany knew things weren’t bad but could be enjoyable.

“Thank you for arranging luncheon.”

“Yes, my dear, but shall we eat first for thoughts are best formed when one has dined,” Barbara said.

Brittany lifted the cover over the plate in front of her. Everything she loved which sent a warning to her, this conversation might be more than a pleasant discussion between mother and daughter.

“What would you like to know Mother?”

“What makes you think I wish to learn anything?”

“For one thing this meal consists of several items I adore, so you must have a reason.”

“Yes, I wished for you to relax since what I would like to discuss might upset you. Now, let’s eat before our meals get cold,’ Barbara requested, cutting into her slice of roast beef.

All the while they dined Brittany kept an eye on her mother, still not sure why this special and unusual meeting.

Finished with her meal, Brittany looked over to her mother.

“Now, would you care to explain why you wished to meet with me?” Brittany strongly asked.

“Only to learn what your heart and mind tell you about Lord Samuel? I understand you enjoy being with him both out in public but also here. My question, what are your feelings for him? If I remember correctly you thought him to be pompous, overbearing and demanding.”

Now, Brittany knew what this was all about. Her mother wanted to learn if her emotions were true or a false front to understand what he knew about the book that he had been so insistent on seeing.

At first, her reactions to Samuel had been harsh considering his comments at several balls, then literally running into him at the book shop. It wasn’t until properly introduced and she learned of his reason to study the Hersey book did her opinion change.

Add to that, his sudden change in attitude toward her, including bestowing upon her a pearl necklace. Were his affections true and from the heart for her? Until now, with her mother’s questioning her motives she began to wonder also. The only problem, how to find out his genuine feelings for her. That’s when she understood, with him at the estate over the holiday that would be a perfect time to find out.

“Mother, truthfully, I would like to think his attentions are real. I do enjoy being in Lord Samuel’s company. With other gentlemen, I had always been tense and nervous but not with him. For the first time I feel relaxed and comfortable in his presence, which is wonderful. My only question is his desire to review this particular edition of the Hersey book. I also do appreciate his assistance in safely removing it to our estate.”

“Daughter, I know he’s been invited to join us but if you’re desirous I will rescind the offer?” her mother suggested, but not too strongly.

“No, I would enjoy having him with us. This way, not only will we be able to decipher the handwritten notes but decide if our affections for one another are real,” Brittany said.

The smile she saw her mother give her confirmed what she desired. Together they would be able to search the book, while she her heart.

Hearing footsteps in the corridor Brittany glanced to the small mantle clock.

“If I’m not mistaken mother, I believe Lord Samuel is here. With your permission, might I be dismissed so I may refresh myself?”

“Of course, my dear. I’ve letters to write confirming suites for some of the guest at nearby estates for the ball, so have Aggie chaperone you.”

“I will and I’m sure she’ll be interested in seeing first-hand the change in his demeanor. We won’t be spending more than an hour or so. Then, if you are agreeable might I invite him to the family parlor?”

“That is a wonderful suggestion as it will give us a chance to discuss how to pass the book to Lady Wallace as you won’t have time to visit your godmother. I’ll make sure your father is also present. Now, off you go so you wouldn’t keep him waiting,” Barbara recommended.

Stepping out into the corridor she was met by a smiling Mrs. Frye.

“Has Lord Samuel arrived?”

“Yes, m’ lady. He’s with His Lordship in the office. Before you ask, I’ve no idea what they might be talking about. All I know, John is at the door so they won’t be interrupted.”

Hearing this, Brittany could feel her knees weaken and her stomach flutter as if a thousand butterflies had invaded her. With the two men locked in private conversation she wondered what it could mean. She believed they wouldn’t be discussing Samuel offering for her.

With a glance down the hall she saw their butler, arms crossed over his chest, which was unusual. What made his stature more imposing and frightening, the scowl he wore.

“Mrs. Frye, considering the expression coming from John, I feel it might be safer for me to use the servant stairs. I wish to refresh myself before undertaking the review of the book. Would you inform Lord Samuel I’ll meet him in the library in about twenty minutes.”

“M’ lady, I do believe that would be a wise decision. A moment ago when I walked by John, if I’m not mistaken, he growled at me.”

On hearing what the butler did to their housekeeper and knowing her perchance to retaliate Brittany tried her best not to giggle, but failed.

“Trust me, m’ lady, he will pay and pay dearly for his behavior.”

“All I ask, please keep everything downstairs,” she whispered.

“Fear not, for he will be dealt with once you depart for the country in a few days,” Mrs. Frye said.

With a nod of approval, Brittany turned and slipped up the rear stairs to her suite.

Stepping in she wasn’t surprised Aggie was waiting for her by the dressing table.

“M’ lady, please have a seat so I may redo your hair for His Lordship.”

A few minutes later, this time in a braided crown with several wisps framing her face, Brittany stepped into the corridor. Much to her amazement Aggie had agreed to chaperone her while in Samuel’s presence.

“Oh, stop with your grumbling,” Brittany tossed over her shoulder.

“I’m sorry, m’ lady, I still don’t trust him. I feel he’s using you to get what he wants, whatever that is and it’s not your hand.”

“No, that’s exactly what he wants. Lord Samuel just doesn’t know that yet. Now, let’s see what we can learn from the Hersey book,” Brittany said, stepping onto the first floor landing then marched up to her father’s office, still guarded by John.

“Please inform Lord Samuel I will be waiting for him in the library.”

“Of course, m’ lady, and I’m sure he’ll be right along as I believe His Lordship and Lord Eli have concluded their discussion.”

“And you have no idea what they talked about?”

“I’m sorry, but I’m not privy to that particular information. If you’ll excuse me I’ll inform Lord Samuel,” John said.