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A WAGER WITH A VISCOUNT: A REGENCY ROMANCE
LADIES ON THEIR OWN: GOVERNESSES AND COMPANIONS (BOOK 6)
ROSE PEARSON
A Wager with a Viscount
A Wager with a Viscount
Prologue
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Epilogue
My Dear Reader
A Sneak Peek of To Trust a Viscount
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Join my Mailing List
A WAGER WITH A VISCOUNT
Ladies on their Own: Governesses and Companions
(Book 6)
By Rose Pearson
© Copyright 2022 by Rose Pearson - All rights reserved.
In no way is it legal to reproduce, duplicate, or transmit any part of this document by either electronic means or in printed format. Recording of this publication is strictly prohibited and any storage of this document is not allowed unless with written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved.
Respective author owns all copyrights not held by the publisher.
A WAGER WITH A VISCOUNT
PROLOGUE
Edmund Richardson, Lord Wollaston, shot a doubtful glance towards his brother.
“And how long is your intended visit?”
His brother shrugged one shoulder and looked away.
“I am not yet quite certain.”
The doubts in Edmund’s mind only grew.
“If you cannot tell me how long you will be on the continent for, then I do not feel that I can agree to this arrangement.”
Letting out a small huff of breath in evident frustration, his brother looked back at him.
“Must you be so precise?”
“If you are asking me to look after both of your children, then yes, I must be very precise indeed!”
“It would not be for long, and they are not any trouble. If my wife had agreed to stay, then your assistance would not be required.”
Scowling, he looked away again and Edmund hid a smile, knowing full well that his brother loved his wife dearly, but found her determination and strength a little frustrating at times.
ImustfindouthowlongIwillberesponsiblefor my nieceand nephewifIamtoevenconsiderthis.
“Do you think you will be gone for six months?”
Again, his brother’s eyes darted towards him before flying away again.
“I would suspect us to be away a little closer to a year.”
“A year?” An exclamation flew from Edmund’s mouth before he could prevent it. “You expect to be on the continent for over twelve months?”
“Yes, I think so. My wife, as you know, has never been to our holdings there and, given that it is a trip that she will not make again, it is probably best that we prolong our visit somewhat.”
Edmund blinked rapidly, trying to consider what his life would be like for the next year should he agree to take on his brother’s children. “You will not know that they are even a part of your life.” Perhaps seeing his doubts, his brother spoke quickly, turning towards Edmund a little more. “They will have their nurse and we will need to hire a governess for them also, for they are at an age when such lessons can begin. Beyond that, here is nothing else you will need to do with them, other than to make certain that everything is going as expected.”
Edmund shook his head.
“A year is a very long time, brother.”
“But you shall endure it admirably. Besides, I can look over your holdings on the continent also which, in turn, would mean that you could stay in England for the foreseeable future, rather than have to make the journey yourself.” Thatwouldbeveryhelpfulindeed,even though I do not wish to admit it. “I know that you have not been able to do so as yet, since you took on the title. Our late brother will have taken great care of the holdings I am sure, but it would be still worth a visit. Besides, the children are very little trouble, I assure you.” His brother waved a hand. “This house is large enough to have even twenty children and you would still never know they were here.”
Edmund’s lips pulled into a wry smile.
“I hardly think that is true, but you are doing your best to convince me, I can see.”
His brother chuckled.
“And is it working?”
With very great reluctance. Edmund nodded his head.
“If you are still eager to go to see your holdings on the continent, then yes, I will look after your offspring while you are away.”
His brother clapped his hands together and beamed delightedly. “Marvelous. Thank you, I am in your debt.”
“You most certainly are.” Edmund grinned as his brother laughed. “You will have to send me final arrangements and prepare me entirely for what I must do for the arrival of your children.”
“Yes, yes, of course.” Waving a hand, his brother walked across to the table and poured two brandies. “We do not intend to depart England for two months yet, so there is plenty of time to make such arrangements.”
“Good, and you will provide all of the staff required also?”
His brother shot him a look.
“The governess and the nurse? Yes, of course. We already have the nurse, and a suitable governess will not be too hard to find.”
Edmund narrowed his eyes a little.
“This is of great seriousness, brother. You must make sure to find a governess before your children arrive here. I will not be responsible for that.”
Again, his brother waved a hand.
“Of course, of course. You need not be so concerned.”
A slight feeling of unease settled in Edmund’s stomach, but he ignored it, pushing it away as his brother handed him a brandy.
“You will hardly notice they are here - and the year will pass very quickly indeed.” His brother grinned at him. “Perhaps you may even miss them when it is time for them to depart!”
“I highly doubt that.” Chuckling, Edmund lifted his brandy glass. “To your endeavors, brother.”
“And to your willingness to support me in that.”
After clinking their glasses together, the brothers both sipped their brandy, each thinking of what was to come in the following year. One was thinking of freedom and leisure, while the other was concerned with the fact that he would be responsible for not only one, but two children. He could only hope that whichever governess his brother chose would be well able to keep the children out sight, so that, as his brother had implied, he might be able to live his life in much the same way as he did at the present.
Iamsureitwillallgoverywell.
Taking another sip, Edmund let his shoulders drop and tried to smile.
There is nothing to concern me. The year willgo very quickly indeed.
CHAPTER ONE
“I
s this the governess?”
Tabitha blinked as she stepped a little further into the large manor house. The journey had been tiring and, given that she had very little idea where she was, this confused matters even further. A man was hurrying towards her, his shirt sleeves rolled up, no cravat around his neck and his hair a little messy.
Isthisoneofthefootmen?
“I am Miss Tabitha Raikes, yes.”
“Whatever took you so long to get here? I was assured that you would be arriving with my niece and nephew!” Tabitha blinked. Was the man before he the gentleman of the house? Given her surprise, she did not answer immediately, her eyes studying the rather handsome copper haired, green eyed gentleman whose hands were now pressed firmly to his sides, elbows akimbo, as his mouth pulled into a firm line. “Well?”
“I confess I do not understand what you mean, my Lord.”
Aware, now, that this was Lord Wollaston, Tabitha dropped her eyes and did her best to appear respectful. For whatever reason, Lord Wollaston appeared to be frustrated, although she did not understand why such upset was being directed towards her.
“My brother wrote to me only last week, before his departure from London, and stated that you would be arriving with the children! However, they arrived some two days after his letter, without any sign of you, and now you appear a sennight later!”
Tabitha licked her lips and took a moment to consider what had been said before she answered. She did not want to lay the blame anywhere in particular, but she certainly was not about to accept
Lord Wollaston's anger when it was not deserved. Deciding that she must speak plainly, she lifted her gaze to his face once more.
“My Lord, I received the summons to be governess to Mr. Richardson’s children only a fortnight ago. I was told to come to this house on this particular date. I apologize if that is not in alignment with what you were led to expect.”
She watched as Lord Wollaston's eyes narrowed slightly, his jaw jutting forward. It appeared that she was not believed.
“That is not what I was told.”
“I have the letter here, should you wish to see it?”
A slight tone of challenge entered her voice, as Tabitha lifted one eyebrow and cocked her head, waiting for Lord Wollaston’s response. She was not about to allow him to even hintthat she was speaking untruths. A corresponding challenge sparked in Lord Wollaston's eyes.
"Yes, I should like to see it.”
Finding herself less than impressed with Lord Wollaston, Tabitha reached into her pockets and found the letter which she had kept close throughout the entire journey. That was not because she felt at all sentimental about it, but rather that she wanted to make quite certain that she was going to the right place. Pulling it out, she handed it to Lord Wollaston with a flourish and crossed her arms across her chest as he unfolded it and began to read. The spark left his eyes and his shoulders dropped as he reached the end, evidently realizing now that she had spoken the truth.
“I see.” He did not have the grace to apologize but, to her surprise, he appeared even more frustrated than before. “We have been waiting for you for a full seven days, Miss Raikes. I am very glad to see you at last. Your first task awaits you.”
Tabitha lifted an eyebrow.
“Is that so?”
Iam notevengoingtobeoffereda chancetorestandrecover from my journey. I am not to be offered refreshments, nor even a glassofwater .
Her thoughts towards Lord Wollaston darkened.
“My niece, Clara, has gone missing.”
“Your niece.”
The gentleman nodded but did not hold her gaze.
“The nurse found her missing some two hours ago, and since then we have not been able to find her.”
Tabitha thought, quickly, recalling that she had been told that the children were only six years of age.
“And the other twin?”
“My nephew is in the schoolroom, being closely watched by two maids so that he too cannot escape.” Thinking silently to herself that this was something of an overreaction, Tabitha merely nodded. “I would be very grateful if you would assist us in the search.”
“Is this the first time that she has gone missing, my Lord?”
The gentleman shook his head.
“She is inclined towards escaping. I believe that she finds it rather funny.”
A quick glance around the Manor house told her that this was a very large house indeed. The child could be anywhere.
“And what of the gardens? Could she go to the gardens?”
Lord Wollaston nodded.
“She has been there before, hiding in the arbor.”
“And has someone looked there today?”
Lord Wollaston licked his lips and then shook his head.
“I shall instruct the gardener and the ground staff to do so at once.”
“I'm afraid I shall be very little help, given that I do not know this house at all.”
“The very least you can do is look.”
A hardness came into Lord Wollaston's voice which made Tabitha’s anger burn bright. He had no reason to speak to her in such a manner, especially given that she had only just arrived, and was not in any way responsible for the missing child.
“I did not say that I would not assist you, only that I fear I shall be of very little help.”
Seeing the flash of steel in Lord Wollaston’s eyes made her realize that he had not expected a governess to speak to him in such a manner, but she did not regret her words. This was only her
second charge, but she was the daughter of a Viscount, and had no intention of permitting Lord Wollaston to demean her in any way. Even in her role as governess, she was still worthy of his respect.
“I will have the footman take your bags to your room. Pray, accustom yourself to the house – the staff should be able to answer any questions you may have. Perhaps you will find my niece as you do so.”
Tabitha watched him stride away, her own heart beating a little more quickly with frustration and anger. This was not at all the welcome she had expected, nor that she deserved. None of this was her doing, and yet she felt as though Lord Wollaston was attempting to blame her.
Taking a deep breath, Tabitha turned in the opposite direction to Lord Wollaston and began to walk through the house.
The house was very large indeed, just as Tabitha had assumed. With so many rooms and hallways, she was soon a little lost. Finding herself in an area of the house where all of the furniture was draped completely in dust covers, she had stepped into one room to look about when a sudden sound caught her attention. Her heart clattered for a moment as she heard it again but then, swiftly realizing that the child was in this room, Tabitha paused and remained exactly where she was. Letting her eyes rove around the room, she heard a giggle come from her left-hand side, and she thought to herself that the child in question must be hidden under one of the dust covers.
“I think there must be someone else in here! Maybe it is a quiet little mouse.” She spoke softly, and the girl laughed again, but made no attempt to reveal herself - and Tabitha could not help but smile. Evidently the girl was very pleased at just how well she had hidden herself, and for how long. “Clara?” Silence followed. “Good gracious, I cannot quite believe just how well you are hidden in here! When I first walked into the room, all I saw were the dust covers on the furniture. But now I believe there is a little girl hidden in here somewhere, and I am quite determined to find her!” She made the last part of the statement a little more singsong and heard the satisfying sound of the child giggling again. “I shall have to hunt for
you, and I am very good at hunting. What do you think will happen when I find you?”
Keeping her voice melodious. Tabitha began to search carefully, lifting up the corners of the dust sheets in the hope that she would soon find the small girl hiding there. As she tried to make it into a game, with giggles, smiles and playful remarks, Tabitha was soon rewarded by Clara laughing so loudly that it was impossible for her to remain hidden. With great relief, Tabitha found her curled up into a ball under one of the tables which was draped with at least two dust covers. Coughing as some of the dust went into her nose and mouth, Tabitha lifted the dust sheets and folded them back onto the table. The girl met her eyes, startled.
“Oh!”.
Tabitha crouched down, edging partway under the table to get close to the small girl, unable to resist a smile as she saw that Clara had found a very dusty cushion and a blanket, and dragged them underneath the table to keep her warm – while her uncle and the staff looked for her.
She has no idea that there has been so much frustration and upsetoverherabsence.
“It seems that I have found you!” Reaching out, Tabitha tickled her fingers up the girl’s arm, making her squeal with laughter. Her dark hair was rather dissimilar to that of Lord Wollaston for it had not even a hint of red, but her green eyes were the same, sharing that family resemblance. There was a mischievous look about the girl, as though she knew very well the trouble she had caused, and was not sorry for it. “You hid yourself very well indeed.” Taking on a little more serious tone, Tabitha looked into the small girl’s face. “But you have been up here for a long time. Your uncle is rather worried about you.”
Little Clara looked away. She was old enough to make decisions about what she would do, with a reasonably clear understanding of the possible repercussions which might would follow.
“Do you think he will punish me?”
Tabitha’s faint smile disappeared completely.
“I shall speak to him about that, Clara. But if there are consequences, you must bear them gracefully. I believe you knew it was not wise of you to run away and be gone for so many hours.”
The girl bit her lip.
“I did not mean to fall asleep.”
“You fell asleep under this table?”
Tabitha asked, seeing Clara nod, although the girl did not look at her.
“I only woke up when I heard you coming into the room. I thought you were my brother or one of my maids or the nurse. I did not think that my uncle would be looking for me.”
“He has been doing so for many hours.” Clara’s brown eyes began to fill with tears, worrying Tabitha somewhat. Surely Lord Wollaston was not a cruel uncle? Tabitha did not like to see the child so upset, and did her best to reassure her in an attempt to stem her tears. “As I have said, I will speak with your uncle. I will tell him that you fell asleep, but now you must come with me so that we can go to him at once, and reassure him that you are safe.” On instinct, she reached out and took Clara’s hand, pressing it gently. “But you must also promise me not to run away again. If I am to be your governess and if this is to be a happy situation, then you must do as I ask.”
It took a moment, but Clara’s eyes eventually went to hers and she nodded.
“Yes.”
“Good.” Smiling warmly, Tabitha let go of Clara’s hand and, a little awkwardly, climbed out from under the table, fully expecting the child to follow. “You must help me, Clara - you and your brother both.” To her slight frustration, the child did not come out from under the table but remained hidden. That frustration melted away, however, when Tabitha heard her sniffling. Was the girl crying? “I have only just arrived here – only a few minutes ago, in fact ,” she continued, hoping that by speaking so it would encourage Clara to emerge from under the table. “I have only just met your uncle and have never set foot in his house before in my life! I have not even been introduced to your brother as yet and, even though I corresponded with your father, I have never been in his company –
nor in that of your mother. I confess that I am quite lost. You, however, have been here for a sennight, I understand. I do hope that you and your brother will assist me in settling in, just as I am sure your nurse and your uncle did for you.”
Another sniff came from the child, and she said nothing. Choosing to wait patiently rather than speak any further, Tabitha remained silent until Clara felt able to answer.
“We have only been to the nursery and the schoolroom, so I do not think that we can be any help to you.”
Another sniff followed this remark and Tabitha blinked back her surprise. Had the children not been given any opportunity to explore the house? She could well understand that Lord Wollaston might wish to keep his niece and nephew from his own private quarters, but to keep them in only a small set of rooms was a little unfair and unfeeling. Did he not want to spend even a moment in their company?
“But you have been to the gardens, I have heard.”
Trying to remain as encouraging as possible, Tabitha kept her voice filled with warmth, but it was only met with another sniff.
“My brother has not been. I only went outside because I ran away. I wanted very much to explore the gardens, but the nurse would not allow me to, so I chose to go by myself.”
Tabitha tipped her head, considering. Perhaps the nurse and Lord Wollaston had refused to permit the children such a thing until she, as their governess had arrived. That would be the most plausible explanation, surely.
“I am sure that we can take many walks in the gardens – as many as you wish, in fact. There will be much for us to explore together.” Flooding her voice with as much hope as possible, relief poured into Tabitha as Clara finally emerged from under the table. “We will have many great adventures, I am sure.”
The little girl got to her feet and rubbed one hand over her eyes, smearing dust across her face.
“Perhaps. I am not sure that my uncle will allow us into his gardens. I do not think that he wants to see us at all.”
The poor impression Tabitha had received of Lord Wollaston increased all the more.
“I am sure that your uncle will be a good deal more amenable now that I have arrived. After all, I believe that he has been waiting for me for seven days at least!” Catching the way that Clara’s eyes lifted to hers for a moment, Tabitha smiled warmly. “As I have said, you need not have any concerns any longer, my dear girl. I am here now. We shall explore the gardens and the woods beyond it, we shall take picnics and paddle our feet in the pond. We shall learn many things and I am certain that this year will pass most happily until your parents return.”
“I miss Mama.”
At the very next moment, Clara threw herself into Tabitha’s arms, tears beginning to pour down her cheeks and her small body wracked with sobs. Tabitha’s heart ached for the girl, and she held her close, not seeing Lord Wollaston standing in the doorway, watching them. Murmuring soft, comforting words, she rubbed one hand over the girl’s back, letting Clara’s tears flow until she was ready to begin to compose herself.
“It must be very difficult for you to know that your parents have gone so far away. I should like it if you would tell me about them. I do not know anything about your mother or your father and should be glad to hear everything you have to tell me.”
Clara looked up at her, her eyes a little red-rimmed.
“My brother says it will be a very long time until they return.”
“Every day is one day less.” Smiling, Tabitha smoothed Clara’s hair gently, pushing it away from her forehead. “And if we fill each day with happiness, then it will be all the quicker, I assure you.” The girl nodded, sniffed, and wiped her nose in a most unkempt manner with the back of her hand.
“Here.” Pulling out her handkerchief, Tabitha handed it to Clara and waited as she wiped her eyes and blew her nose. “Now, it is time that we made our way back so that we can tell your uncle that you are safe. Then perhaps you can take me to the school room and introduce me to your brother?”
Clara nodded, a small smile touching the edges of her lips.
“Thank you, Miss Raikes. I am not sad any longer.”
Putting an arm around the small girl’s shoulder, Tabitha smiled as she led Clara back towards the door.
“I am very glad to hear it.”
Making their way slowly back downstairs, Tabitha kept her arm around Clara’s shoulders as they entered the hallway which led to the front door. As they approached, none other than Lord Wollaston emerged from his study. Preparing herself for a rather angry response at the sight of his niece, Tabitha lifted her chin a notch and kept her gaze firm but, much to her astonishment, he reached out, took the girl’s hand in his, and squeezed her fingers gently.
“You are not to run away again, Clara.” His voice was soft, but his tone firm brooked no argument. “I am sure that your governess will not tolerate such behavior either. Do I make myself clear?”
The girl dropped her head.
“Yes, Uncle.”
Clara spoke without question or hesitation and, whilst she was demure at present, Tabitha suspected that this was not the first time she had behaved in this manner. No doubt she had made such promises to her uncle before.
“Very good.” Lord Wollaston rose. “Miss Raikes. It seems that you have proven yourself already.”
“It was quite accidental, my Lord, I assure you.”
“Very good. I believe that my nephew is still in the schoolroom. I am certain that you will wish to greet him also.”
“Yes, my Lord.” Tabitha spoke slowly, wondering when she was going to have the opportunity to prepare her room, put away her things and rest for a short while. The journey had been tiring, and to be thrown into finding Clara so quickly was only adding to her exhaustion.
Lord Wollaston nodded curtly, going to turn away, only for Tabitha to speak his name, holding him back.
“Lord Wollaston? Might I ask when I am to begin my duties?”
Swinging back towards her, Lord Wollaston’s brows drew together as if she had angered him with such a question.
“I do not understand what you mean, Miss Raikes. You have arrived, have you not? Your duties began at the very moment you stepped into my house.”
His lack of consideration set a fire in her.
“If you recall, my Lord, I have had no opportunity to rest from my journey and no offer of refreshment has been given.”
He looked at her, a little surprise evident in his flared eyes and slightly ajar mouth.
“I did not think….”
“You did not think that a governess would require such things?”
Lord Wollaston cleared his throat, shuffled his feet, and put his hands behind his back.
“But of course.” A slight hint of color came into his cheeks. “I would be grateful if you would introduce yourself to my nephew, but thereafter, your duties will begin tomorrow morning. There is only dinner and the early evening remaining for my charges, I suppose.”
A little uncertain of whether Lord Wollaston had truly been thoughtless or deliberately inconsiderate, Tabitha nodded.
“Thank you. I shall make my way up to the schoolroom at once – although perhaps you would wish me to speak with you later this evening regarding my particular duties?”
Lord Wollaston blinked, as though he had not even thought of such a thing.
“My brother did not speak to you of this already?”
“I received only one letter from your brother, my Lord. He informed me of his present circumstances, spoke about his son and daughter, and told me where I was to go and on what particular date I would be required. That is all.”
Lord Wollaston's eyes flared in evident astonishment.
“Do you mean to say that you were given this position without any further communication?”
A little injured, Tabitha rose to her full height and lifted her chin.
“Your brother and my father are acquainted, Lord Wollaston. Your brother is also aware of my previous situation and of the satisfaction that Lady Pottinger expressed with my work with her
daughter. I believe he assumed that would be satisfactory to you also.”
To her disappointment, Lord Wollaston shook his head and passed one hand over his eyes, muttering darkly under his breath, as though he were greatly troubled to hear of such a thing. This was not the introduction she had hoped for. Lord Wollaston appeared to be greatly displeased with not only her presence in his house but with everything she either said or did. A little frustrated, she shook her head to herself and then began to make her way towards the stairs without a further glance towards Lord Wollaston.
“I beg your pardon, Miss Raikes! Is there a place that you must be which has demanded that you leave my presence without a word?”
Pausing and with her hand holding Clara's tightly, Tabitha looked back towards the master of the house.
“I am to return Miss Clara to the schoolroom, and greet your nephew, my Lord, and then I am to rest. I am very weary indeed and if I am to do the best for your niece and nephew come the morrow, then I must have a little respite.”
“I do not believe that we were finished with our conversation.”
“Then pray tell me when I can come to you so that we might complete it.” Iamnotabouttowaithereanylonger . Iamnotabout toseeanotherdespondentlookorhearaheavysigh.“This evening, perhaps?”
Lord Wollaston frowned, but Tabitha remained where she was, silently refusing to walk back across the hall towards him. Quiet grew like a wall between them, as though they were silently battling for the upper hand but, after some minutes, Lord Wollaston dropped his head and let out an obvious sigh.
“This evening will suit very well. I will have the footman call for you when I am ready.” With a wave of his hand, he dismissed her, and Tabitha turned with relief towards the staircase. The sooner she was away from Lord Wollaston, the better she would feel, she was sure. Thus far, he had made a very poor impression upon her, indeed, and Tabitha was very glad to be free of his company for a short while, at least.
CHAPTER TWO
“T his has been a rather difficult sennight for you, has it not?”
“It has. And to add to it, I had to speak to one of my staff today.”
Lord Chesterton’s eyebrows lifted.
“Nothing too serious, I hope.”
Edmund shook his head.
“Not in the least, although it is a little frustrating to have to deal with it when I already have so much to consider.”
“What was the trouble?”
“Having purchased a pair of greys. I hired with them a groom specifically to care for their needs. He came very well recommended with a great deal of experience. I am certain he will care for them very well.”
Lord Chesterton grinned.
“Which, given their price, you will be very grateful for, I am sure.”
Wincing, Edmund chuckled.
“I will not pretend that was not a consideration. Those horses must do well for me and so I hired the very best sort. With his experience, I did think that perhaps one or two of my other grooms might learn something from him, but that has not taken place. Instead, they find themselves jealous, I believe.”
“Which is a little understandable, given that you will be paying him more than the others.”
“Not a great deal more, but yes.” Edmund shrugged. “His experience merits it - but in doing such a thing, I appear to have upset my other staff.”
Lord Chesterton nodded understandingly.
“Such a thing cannot be helped. But this is the reason you had to speak to them, I assume.
“Yes indeed. But as you say, it cannot be helped.” Edmund nodded. “In discussion with them today, I explained about his experience and that they might think of learning from him rather than being so upset by his salary. I am hopeful that it will bring a little more harmony… although I may find my hopes dashed. Tomorrow they might all be at each other’s throats!”
Wincing sympathetically, Lord Chesterton shook his head.
“And, on top of all of this, you have your brother now gone to the continent with his wife and you left with his darling children!”
Edmund groaned, closed his eyes, and lifted his brandy glass to rest against his temples, feeling a dull ache growing there.
“I wish I could make you understand the depths of my struggles. My brother is entirely to blame, of course, for he has not done as he promised.”
Lord Chesterfield looked back at him steadily, swirling his brandy glass carefully.
“But the governess has arrived now. At least that will bring you a little relief! These next few months will be a good deal easier. It will be just as your brother has said. You will not even notice them.”
Edmund shook his head.
“Given that I believed my brother thus far, and that proved unwise, I have no thought of further believing anything he has said in that regard. The governess will not keep the children confined to the school room. I even heard her speaking to Clara about taking walks in the gardens and exploring the house!”
His friend blinked, then shrugged.
“Surely you did not believe that the children would remain in their school room and the nursery for the entirety of their year here?” When Edmund did not reply, Lord Chesterton laughed with evident disbelief. “My dear friend, that, I believe, was a little foolish of you. Did you think that you would be able to return to your life just as it was, without ever being in their company?”
“I thought I would not have them as part of my daily life if that is what you are asking. I do not think that unreasonable.”
“But that means that you would never see them. You are their uncle, and their parents are far away. Surely there must be a little understanding in your heart as regards their situation.”
Edmund waved a hand, dismissing his friend’s words.
“You are speaking only because you have the very best of nieces and nephews whom you dote upon and spoil - far too much, I might add.”
“I do not think so.” Lord Chesterton grinned and sipped his brandy. “You think me foolish, I know, but there is a joy to be had when one is in company with one's family.”
A small smile pulled at Edmund’s mouth, although sorrow filled his heart.
“I cannot either agree or disagree, given that I have no father or mother remaining, my elder brother has passed and my younger brother is gone to the continent.”
His friend grinned and Edmund realized, too late, that he had backed himself into a corner.
“Then you shall have to find out for yourself by spending a little more time with your niece and nephew.”
There was nothing he could say in return, and so in gentle protest, Edmund groaned and rolled his eyes. Lord Chesterton laughed and then rose to refill his brandy.
“Tell me about the governess. Do you think that she will be suitable?”
“Again, this is something my brother promised to ensure and has not.” Shaking his head, Edmund drew in a calming breath, as his swirling anger threatened to grow should he permit it. “He promised that he would find the very best of governesses - and from that I assumed that he meant he would demand references and the likebut it seems that he has taken on someone that he knows personally who has only one previous experience as governess.”
“Oh.” Lord Chesterton frowned. “That is a little unfortunate, although there is no reason not to give her an opportunity to prove herself.”
“It is not as though I have any other choice, given that I will not be able to find someone to replace her with any speed.” A little
begrudgingly, he shrugged. “She did find Clara today, and when I came upon them, what she spoke of with her seemed to calm my niece significantly. I will admit that she seems a very caring sort and that is an important quality for a governess, I believe.”
Lord Chesterton nodded.
“I would quite agree. You say that your brother knows her personally. How could that be?”
“He knows her father.”
“I see. Then he is a gentleman?”
“A Viscount, in fact.” That fact still surprised Edmund a little, although he spoke very plainly, refusing to allow any of the astonishment to enter his voice. “She has not given a reason as to why she must take on employment, but it is not my place to ask, I suppose.”
“Although it is a little interesting.”
Edmund grinned.
“Perhaps. But it is not her past, nor her situation with her father, that interests me. It is only whether or not she can do the job for which she has been hired.”
A knock at the door caught his attention and Edmund called for the person there to enter. After a moment, Miss Raikes was shown into the room by the butler, and Edmund was a little surprised to see the way that her eyes flashed. Her expression was animated, and for a moment she seemed far less plain than he had previously thought her.
“Good evening, Miss Raikes. I was speaking of your arrival, only a moment ago, with my friend, Lord Chesterton.”
Gesturing to him, he gave Miss Raikes a small smile which he did not really feel.
“I am aware of that Lord Wollaston. The door was a little ajar and, as I approached, I heard a little of your conversation - it was impossible not to listen.”
Her hands clasped in front of her, but Edmund noticed just how white the knuckles were. Evidently what she had overheard had upset her.
“I see. Well, given that there was nothing –”
“Might I take this opportunity to assure you that I will do my very best for your niece and nephew.” Miss Raikes continued to speak, even though Edmund had tried to interrupt. “I am well able to take on the responsibilities required of a governess. I shall do my job and do my job very well. Your niece and nephew will be happy, and I will make certain that their learning continues each and every day. Your brother was kind enough to give me an opportunity for further employment, so that I might escape from a difficult situation, and I have no intention of letting him down.”
Something like shame began to wind its way through Edmund’s heart, and he found himself looking away from Miss Raikes. Had he known that the door was ajar, then he would never have spoken in such a way.
“I have heard that your father is a Viscount, Miss Raikes.” Lord Chesterton's easy smile seemed to pull some of the tension from the room. “Might you tell me his name? Perhaps I am acquainted with him.”
Miss Raikes unclenched her hands and turned towards Lord Chesterton a little more.
“He is Viscount Pritchard, my Lord.”
“I am acquainted with him then.” The smile in Lord Chesterton's voice removed the tension all the more. “I believe that he remarried recently, if I am not mistaken?”
Miss Raikes blinked but nodded.
“Yes, my Lord. It was a quiet affair, but he has recently wed a lady named Miss Grifford.”
“I see. And are you his only child?”
These are all questions I should have asked. Shame built in Edmund’s heart as Miss Raikes continued to converse with Lord Chesterton. He had not shown the lady much consideration, having been so caught up with the fact that his niece had gone missing and, in addition, the ongoing strain that the children had brought to his ordered life over these last few days. He did not like to think of himself as a thoughtless gentleman, but in this situation, Edmund had to admit that he had been so.
“I have a brother, Lord Chesterton. At present he is still at Eton.”
“He is younger than you are then.”
She nodded.
“Yes.”
“And you have had a charge before this?”
Again, Miss Raikes nodded.
“To a Lady Pottinger, my Lord. I helped teach her son, before he too left for Eton.”
Lord Chesterton smiled at her and after a moment, she returned it. Edmund found himself a little frustrated that he had not begun his acquaintance with Miss Raikes on such good footing, as his friend had appeared to do. Then again, he reasoned that was entirely down to his foolishness in allowing his frustrations to get the better of him.
“You have some experience, then.”
“Yes, my Lord, I do.”
This was followed by a swift glance towards Edmund, although he did not catch it nor return it. Lord Chesterton, however, grinned broadly, seeing the way that Miss Raikes shot a hard look toward his friend.
Edmund, recalling the reason that he was meant to speak with Miss Raikes - an idea he could not take credit for - cleared his throat to draw Miss Raikes’ attention.
“Your duties, Miss Raikes.”
His mind suddenly went very empty indeed. What were to be Miss Raikes’ duties? Aside from educating and taking care of the children, what did he expect her to do? Did he have any specific requirements about their education?
Miss Raikes lifted an eyebrow and looked back at him in silent expectation. Edmund cleared his throat again, not quite certain what he was to say.
“I suppose that you will wish me to educate the children daily in both mathematics and languages - initially at least.”
“Yes, they will need to learn to read and write.” Aware that he was floundering, Edmund cleared his throat for what was the third time and felt rather ridiculous when even Lord Chesterton chuckled.
“Did my brother give you any specific requirements with regards to the children’s learning expectations?”
“No, my Lord, he did not. I believe that he assumed that you, as their uncle, would be able to give specific guidance.”
“Yes, yes, of course.” Taking a sip of his brandy so that he would have a little more time to consider, Edmund looked up into Miss Raikes’ expectant face. “I will require you to teach the children in reading, writing, and mathematics, and to make certain that their daily constitutional is also enjoyed.”
Miss Raikes lifted an eyebrow.
“Their constitutional.” She repeated as though he was being ridiculous. “You expect the children to take a single walk each day?”
“Yes. That is so.”
Miss Raikes let out a small sigh which irritated Edmund more than he could say. Whatever was wrong with the lady? He glanced towards Lord Chesterton, but his friend was looking directly at Miss Raikes, a small smile playing about his mouth. Unfortunately for Edmund, he could not work out whether this smile was directed at Miss Raikes herself, or was sympathetic to her because of his own foolishness. He prayed it was the former.
“You wish the children to take a daily walk. You wish for me to educate them in mathematics and reading and in writing. Thereafter, what are they to do? Might I remind you, my Lord, that they are only six years of age.”
Edmund blinked. Whatelseistheretodo?
“If there are any free hours, Miss Raikes, then I expect that you will be able to find a way to fill them with more educational matters.”
Miss Raikes blinked in evident surprise, then lifted her chin so that she was looking back at him with that same hard gaze he had seen before.
“And when, my Lord, will they play?”
Play?This was not something that had occurred to him.
“Well, do they not have enough to do already? With your education and their walk, Miss Raikes, I would be surprised if there would be time for such… frivolity.”
The booming laugh that cut across the room made Edmund jump. Miss Raikes’ eyes flared also, but it was not until she saw Lord Chesterton throwing his head back that she began to smile.
Edmund’s face flushed hot.
“I apologize, my friend,” Lord Chesterton spluttered, his face still a picture of mirth. “I do not mean to mock you, so pray do not take it that way. It is only your thought that children ought not to play which has made me smile so.”
“I do not understand.” Cross, and a little embarrassed that his friend had laughed at him in front of the governess, Edmund slammed one fist down on the arm of the chair. “In case you have not recalled, I have never had children of my own and certainly have never spent much time with my niece and nephew before now.”
“Mayhap if you had then you would be better educated.” Lord Chesterton grinned at him but did not continue laughing. “My dear boy, the children need time to play. Everyone will be happier because of it, I promise you - yourself included.”
Edmund shook his head and let out a sigh of frustration.
“Then they play in the nursery. Is that not so?”
Miss Raikes licked her lips in what Edmund assumed was an attempt to remove the smile from her face.
“You have something to say against that, Miss Raikes?”
Edmund sighed inwardly and looked directly towards Miss Raikes, who of course held his gaze steadily.
“I am grateful that you are permitting your niece and nephew to play my Lord, but to be confined to the nursery, only, would not be good for them.”
“Then what would be?”
She spread her hands and turned around slowly. Edmund knew her point before she had the opportunity to say it.
“This house is vast, my Lord. Clara has not had the opportunity to explore it, she tells me. She is desperate to spend time in the gardens and, given that the weather is warm, I believe it would be good for them both to be able to be out of doors as often as they please… once their education is completed for the day, of course.”