A Berkshire Christmas

by S. White

  Lawrence turned to stare at Simon. “I say, Simon, this hunt for … whatever ... is ridiculous. I should be with Emily. After all, we are to wed.”

  Simon stopped in his tracks. “I beg your pardon, I don't seem to remember you seeking my permission to pay your addresses.”

  Lawrence's face turned a darker red. “I beg your pardon, Simon, just an oversight. We are neighbors and friend. It is only reasonable that at some point we should join our families.”

  “I do not give you permission to address Emily at this time. She wants to have a London Season before she marries.”

  “But I … I ...” Lawrence sputtered.

  “My final word on the subject, Lawrence, I will not hear any more about it. Do you understand?”

  “Yes, of course, Simon.”

  Diana caught up with the trio. She latched onto Tom Blanchard's arm. She batted her eyelashes at him when he looked down at her.

  “Oh, Mister Blanchard, I need to hold on to a strong man's arm to keep from falling. You don't mind, do you?”

  He smiled down at her smiling face. “What man would mind a beautiful woman on his arm.”

  Diana giggled when they started to walk again through the forest.”

  ❄

  Simon sat in his study contemplating the idea of taking Tom to see the estate. He was worried his Kate might go into labor while he was gone. She assured that their child wasn't ready to be born yet.

  It was hard this morning to keep Lawrence Nutworthy away from her sister. He wanted to give Emily some time alone with David. The best he could do was to let his nephew go along as a chaperone. He only hoped a spark was lit. Then there was Tom and Diana. That was a surprise.

  Simon hadn't seen Emily nor David since his return. He asked his butler to order the sleigh to be ready so all he had to do was hunt down Tom Blanchard.

  Diana begged to come along. At first, Simon was inclined to say no her request but then why not? For the last day or so she flirted with Tom and he didn’t seem to mind.

  Diana and Tom would make an excellent match. It didn't matter that she was a Baron's daughter and he the son of a tenant farmer. In London, he might not be accepted into Ton Society, but with friends like Lady Sarah Stone and himself, who knows.

  It was only an hour drive by sleigh to the property. The sun didn't provide much warmth, but at least the snow had stopped for now.

  Simon noticed that Diana snuggled quite close to Tom. By the look on his face, he was enjoying the woman's clinging body.

  A long drive led to the main entrance. Simon reined the horse to a stop.

  “As you can see, it needs a new coat of paint. Of course, you can't tell about the foliage since everything is covered in snow and the rest are dormant but come Spring …”

  “Can we get out of the cold, please.” Diana shivered.

  “Of course.”

  Tom helped her down. They still had to wait until Simon unlocked the door.

  The three of them walked into the dark foyer. Tom got a glimpse of the area before Simon shut the door.

  Black and white tiles covered the dusty floor. A large curving staircase was to their right and another to the left which led to a landing above the foyer. There were a few closed doors on the left past the staircases.

  Simon opened the first door. He moved across the room to open dusty drapes to let in hazy sunlight.

  A large fireplace with an intricately carved mantle took up a great deal of space on one wall. Holland covers draped the furniture scattered around the room.

  Simon turned from the window. “This is one of the public room. Next to this one is a library. There are two more drawing rooms upstairs. Six bedrooms on the first floor and four on the second. The master's suite is there with a sitting room between the master's and mistress' bedchambers.”

  Tom removed a Holland cover to reveal a settee. It seemed to be in excellent shape. He sat down. That allowed Diana an opportunity to sit down next to him.

  She glanced up at Simon. “Does the house comes with the furniture?”

  Simon had to smile at that question. Diana question was one posed by someone who intended to be mistress of this house one day. Perhaps I should encourage the match.

  “Of course. This house has good bones but needs a lot of work to make it livable.” Tom had remained silent since they had entered the house. “What do you think, Tom?”

  Tom glanced at Diana with a smile. “I think … you are right. It does need a lot of work, but has potential.”

  “The top floor is devoted to the nursery with a generous governess room, several children's bedroom, an playroom, and a schoolroom.”

  Diane clapped her gloved hands. “Perfect. Don't you think, Tom.”

  Tom smiled. “Far from perfect, my lady, but it could be.”

  “The kitchen needs updating, but has room for expansion. A vegetable garden used to be just outside the kitchen door.”

  “Simon, you said there is a home farm and several tenant's cottages?”

  “Yes, they need work as well. As does the stable. As it stands at present, there is room for twelve horses. There is also a carriage house which would fit several carriages and a sleigh.”

  Tom was silent for a moment. “I could bring two or three of my younger brothers to occupy the home farm and tenant cottages. I have cousin who might …”

  “Tom.” Diana blushed. “This placed screams for a family again. It is a shame for it to remain empty.”

  “I think you might be right, Diana.”Simon didn't miss that the former Bow Street Runner had dropped the lady from Diana's name.

  “Well, Tom, what do you think? Will you take this place off my hands?”

  Tom stared at Diana when he answered, “Yes, Simon, you have yourself a new neighbor.”

  ❄Chapter Sixteen ❄

  David couldn't find Simon anywhere. He checked his friend's bedchamber, the office, and the library. Finally, the butler told him that Simon had taken Tom Blanchard to see the neighboring property.

  Simon didn't return until late afternoon and then he was closeted in his study with Tom. Later, Lawrence Nutworthy and his sister joined them. Lawrence stormed out of Simon's study a few minutes later. Tom Blanchard with Diana Nutworthy on his arm strolled out of the room.

  Tom patted the lady's arm. “There, there, my dear, your brother will come around.”

  “I don't care if he does or not. I'm of an age to make my own decisions,” Diana said, with a pout.

  The two of them walked away with their heads together. Neither noticed David.

  He knocked on the study door. He opened it without hearing a reply.

  David stuck his head in. “Are you busy?”

  Simon smiled. “Always, my friend but never too busy for you.”

  David entered closing the door behind him. He took a seat across from Simon.

  He cleared his throat. "I searched for you all morning."

  “The weather cleared so I took Tom to see the estate I want to give him. Diana tagged along.”

  “And? Have you talked him into taking it?”

  “No, but Diana has. She has talked him into taking more than the estate. They are engaged to be married. I am to make the announcement at supper tonight.”

  “So that's why Lawrence was so angry.”

  “Yes. He thinks she can do better than a tenant farmer's son, but she wants him and that is that.”

  “Tom has done very well for himself and he does have friends in high places. It wouldn't surprise me if the Prince Regent didn't knight him for bringing in the man who stole Lord Richard's money. I heard Prince George was upset when he heard of the man's death.”

  Simon grinned. “Excellent idea. Perhaps I will suggest it to the Prince when I am next in London.”

  “Glad to be of help.”

  “I believe Tom and Diana wish to marry right away. If that is the case, then I will offer them a suite in the west wing until their house will be livable which might not be until Spring. In any
case, there is a great deal of work on the William's place to make it habitable.”

  “That is very generous, Simon.”

  “I owe Tom a great deal. I never thought he would pull it off. Capturing Jeffers, I mean. And we were so close to finding my Kathleen.”

  David nodded. “But you found her anyway.”

  Silence fell between the two men until Simon couldn't stand it anymore. "Is there anything else you wish to discuss?"

  “Yes.” David cleared his throat. “There is. I was wondering if you would mind if I courted your sister.”

  Simon frowned. “Caroline is already married, David.”

  “Not Caroline, you numskull, Emily. I wish to court Emily.”

  “For what purpose?”

  David took a deep breath. Simon wasn't making this easy for him. “Marriage, Simon. I wish to marry your sister.”

  Simon thumped a finger against his chin. “Well, let me consider this. You are my best friend. We have known each other for many years.” Simon paused for a moment. “Do you love my sister? Just the other day you were enamored of another young lady.”

  David waited impatiently. “Of course, I love Emily. As for the earl's daughter, I was settling for someone who would make a good countess. Emily will make an excellent countess, but also a good wife and mother for our children.” David sighed. “Simon, it can't be this hard to decide.”

  Simon grinned at his friend. “There is a lot to consider. Of course, you can court Emily.”

  David rose with a broad smile on his face. He held his hand out to shake Simon's. “When I marry Emily we will be true brothers and you needn't worry about your sister's welfare. I will take very good care of her.”

  David almost ran out of the study to find Emily so he could begin his courtship.

  He found her in the company of Lawrence Nutworthy. Courting Emily was not going to be easy with the other man around, but he was up to the task.

  ❄

  Supper that evening was a lively event. Everyone was present except for Kate. She wasn't feeling up to it. Simon was worried she would deliver her baby before they could send for the doctor. Perhaps he should send John for the doctor now. Another storm was brewing. If it hits later tonight, it would be impossible for the doctor to come in time.

  Simon's mother, however, didn't seem too concerned when he broached the subject with her. The Dowager Countess gave birth four times, so she should know.

  As soon as dessert was served, Simon rose. “Can I have everyone's attention.” The noise level dropped to zero. “I wish to announce the betrothal of Thomas Blanchard to Diana Nutworthy. They will be our near neighbors since Tom has accepted my offer of the William's property.”

  There were smiles and applause before Tom and Diana stood.

  Tom held up his hand for quiet. He turned to Simon. “My lord, you have been quite generous to me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have enabled me to help my family more than I ever thought possible.”

  Tom glanced down at Diana. He brought her hands to her lips. "I never expected to have a wife as beautiful or as wonderful as Diana. I have asked Bishop Tellison for a special license. He has graciously issued us one. I can think of no better place or time for a wedding than right here and right now among friends."

  Diana grinned. “So will you all adjourn to the drawing room after dessert. If Lawrence refuses to give me away, I am sure Simon will.”

  All eyes were on the disgruntled Baron. Lawrence cleared his throat. “Of course, I will give you away, dear sister.”

  With the arrangements made, everyone dug into their bread pudding topped with fresh cream.

  An hour later, everyone found places to sit in the drawing room to await the arrival of the bride on her brother's arm. She has hurried and changed her clothing. Emily acted as her Maid-of-Honor. David acted as the Best Man.

  Less than thirty minutes late Tom was kissing his bride.

  A footman passed around glasses of champagne to everyone.

  Simon lifted his glass for a toast. “Everyone lift your glasses in a toast to the bride and groom. Here's to Mister Thomas Blanchard and his bride.”

  ❄Chapter Seventeen ❄

  Kate woke Simon with a shake of his shoulder. “Simon, I'm sorry to disturb your sleep, but I think the baby is coming.”

  Simon rubbed the sleep from his eyes. “Now! But it's Christmas.”

  “Your son doesn't know that.” Kate's face grimaced with the contractions. “It is also your birthday.”

  Simon leapt from the bed. “I'll send John for the doctor.”

  “No time, darling. Besides, it's been storming for hours.”

  “I get mother and Bates. They will know what to do.”

  “Oh! Oh!” Kate groaned. “G-good plan, Simon.”

  Simon threw on his robe and left the room. A few minutes later he was banging on his mother's door.

  Her maid opened the door. Before she could say anything, Simon said, “I need mother. Kate is in labor.”

  A moment later, the Dowager Countess appeared fully dressed. She patted her worried son's shoulder. “Don't worry, Simon. Everything will be fine.”

  “But, mother ...”

  “Go downstairs and keep busy. It may be a while before your first child is born. They either come fast or take their sweet time.”

  “But, mother.”

  Beatrice gave her son a stern look. “Just do it, Simon.”

  “You will ...”

  “I will take care of Kate.”

  Beatrice hugged her son. “Trust me, Simon. Kate and your babe will be just fine. Send Bates up when you can.”

  Simon reluctantly returned to his room to change clothes. He seldom used the Master Suite, but his valet kept his clothes here. He thought about ringing for Rogers but decided to let the man sleep. There would plenty of commotion when his child was born.

  He was sure Maggie Bates was sleep as well. She would just have to be awakened. He trusted the housekeeper and his mother with the welfare of his wife and child.

  He made his way downstairs to his study. He sent the first maid he ran across to fetch Maggie.

  An hour later David joined him in his watch. Simon jumped out of his chair when the door opened and he heard Kate's bloodcurdling scream.

  He sat back down when nothing more was heard.“Shouldn't you be courting my sister?”

  “Do you realize what time it is? Six in the morning. A tad early for courting Emily.”

  Simon rose to pace the floor. “How long does this take?” A look of alarm crossed his face. “You don't suppose something is wrong?”

  “Simon, my friend, sit back down. This could take hours. Babies take their own sweet time in arriving.”

  “Mother said something like that. But hours? I don't think I will last that long. How can I survive this?” Simon removed his handkerchief from his pocket and wiped the sweat from his brow.

  David grinned. “Calm down, Simon. You will only give yourself apoplexy. Then where would you be? I am told the second one is easier.”

  “Second one? Oh, no. I don't think I will survive another day like today.”

  “It's Christmas, my friend. A day for miracles. Once you hold your child in your arms for the first time, you will forget about the anxiety you are feeling at the moment or so I’m told.”

  “So you say. You've never been married or had a child. What makes you such an expert?”

  “My father. He wanted me to be prepared. I wish he was here to meet Emily. He would love her as much as I do.”

  “If you put my sister through this ...”

  David rose from his chair. “Shut up, Simon. I'm going to find breakfast. Oh, and Happy birthday.”

  What that parting shot, he opened the door just in time to hear another scream from upstairs.

  ❄

  David wandered around the house in search of Emily. He found her in the drawing-room, but she wasn't alone. Lawrence Nutworthy was on his knees asking Emily to wed him again.
>
  He didn't want to eavesdrop on a private conversion, but he couldn't help himself.

  “Lawrence, you are a very good man and any woman would be proud to be your wife, but not me. I am sorry, Laurie, I can't marry you.”

  Lawrence rose to his feet. “Is there someone else? Please tell me.”

  Emily bowed her head and remained silent. She rose from her chair and walked towards the doorway.

  David watched Emily leave the room. Emily would have seen him if she had looked to her left but she didn't.

  Emily headed straight to the stair just as they heard another scream. Her pace up the stairs increased.

  David wondered if he was doing the right thing. He loved Emily. Could he put her through that? What if he lost her in childbirth? Could he live with himself? Could he live without her?

  Simon ran pass him taking the stairs two at a time. David wondered what had taken his friend so long to leave his study.