The Companion of Lady Holmeshire Read Free Page A

her delighted face when I burst into the house, and I must spend time in London before I return.”
    “ I shall leave the surprise to you, then, sir. Tell me, please, have you decided when you will approach Chancery on the matter of the little boy?”
    “ That matter tries to assail my peace of mind frequently, sir, but I can easily brush it aside. Nicholas will be best cared for in my home, and I do not wish to complicate the matter. Any opposition could only prove to be detrimental to the welfare and happiness of the lad.”
    “ I will leave that to you also, then, sir. I can only advise and hope that you do not encounter a disaster that I must untangle.”
    “ And I thank you for your daring to do business with me, Wentby; they tell me that I am a bit of difficulty. Even my mother rolls her eyes when I approach, though I am certain that her governess once forbade her to have such a look upon her face.”
    “ Forgive my opinion, sir, but I am certain that the poor woman cannot prevent the reactions that come up from deep within. Having had your acquaintance, myself, I...”
    “ A woman stands behind you, sir, preferring not to interrupt as I have just done; could this be the lady you are here to greet? You must introduce me!”
    “ Ah, it is, sir.”
    Wills nodded a friendly hello.
    ***
    Winnie sat as near as possible to the fire on the slate hearth seat itself. “I suppose that the maids will not mind terribly where I sit; would you? You have arrived with your head filled with Miss Wathem’s corrections! Helena would love to misbehave and sit here with me. And I absolutely must warm myself!” She pulled her cording-trimmed gown away from the blazing fire. “Elizabeth tells me that Anne works wonders with hair—you will be most elegant!”
    “ You are known for your style, Milady; the maids will be a good pair.”
    The door opened, and Barreby announced with great pride, “I have locked up the breakfast tea service and silverware. Elizabeth and Anne, ma’am.” They stepped in with Elizabeth in the lead. The elder Lizzy had cared for and taught her siblings with a firm hand; the ever meek Anne had learned early in life to do just as her sister said, “so Mama could sew,” and was now to spend her life in service under her Commander’s direction. She cautiously followed Lizzy in and curtsied, barely glancing up afterward, for which she was immediately chastised. Her hesitation exposed her newness to such a frightful position.
    Winnie’s renowned patience was displayed. “Remember not to discuss the silver when you announce persons, Barreby, no matter who they are. You may go.” His deep sigh belied how very difficult it would be to comply. His thoughts, day and night, centered on protecting the house and its treasures.
    “ Elizabeth!” Winnie welcomed. “Bring your sister here. Do not be shy now, Anne,” she said as she peered around Lizzy, “there will not be time for that.”
    “ I’m sorry, ma’am.” Anne stumbled over herself, being entirely without confidence.
    “’ Milady’ at the first meeting of the day, please,” Winnie corrected her. “And then it is ma’am for the remainder of the day. This is my companion, Emma. She is to be waited on now, Elizabeth, especially by Anne, and addressed by you both as ma’am.”
    Anne curtsied again, and Emma blushed, but knew better than to decline.
    “ Acquaint yourself with Emma’s needs and preferences as soon as possible, Anne. Make sure her room is warmed in the winter at the right times of day; the housemaids should know, but do make sure of it. You will need to develop an air of confidence, as you will be over them in matters relating to Emma’s room and personal effects. Do you see where the excellent education from your hardworking Mama has placed you? Be certain to listen carefully to directions from the Housekeeper, and learn well from your sister. The two of you will then be able to enjoy the comforts of your quarters, send money