“Billy Clark, if you don’t pay attention, you are going to be in the most hideous trouble. Turn around in your desk and stop bothering Georgie. Right now, you hear me? I swear I’m not above using a switch on your tender behind.”
The class roared with laughter.
“Yes, Miss Wilton,” Billy said, turning around and blushing red.
“Right. Now then, multiplication tables.”
The class began reciting. “One times one is one. Two times two is four. Three times three is nine.”
And once again the limitations of this method were becoming clear, as the older boys already knew all these tables, and were bored and restless. But she was restrained by the school’s lesson plan as to what she could teach and when.
This, Susan realized, was a strong motivation to accept Aunt Clarissa’s offer. But she couldn’t help but wonder how the Duke would react to her unconventional teaching methods if she chose to implement them. And as the recitation droned on, she decided she would need to commit her ideas to writing. She would draw up a strong argument for her teaching methods to present to the Duke.
But she still had reservations about caring for Elizabeth. Not her actual care, exactly, but rather the fact that she would need to reside at Haverford House. It would mean leaving her family with no one to assist her mother and father except for their single domestic, Julie. She would definitely need to consider that fact and discuss it with them.
When Susan returned from school that afternoon her first letter from Daniel was waiting for her. Mamma was all atwitter, and anxious for Susan to open and read it as soon as she entered the house. But Susan did not want to share the letter until she had read it alone.
“Thank you, Mamma, but I’d like to make a cup of tea and read it in my room—if you don’t mind.”
Mother pursed her lips and shook out her apron. “If you must,” she grumped and turned away to ignore her.
She was anticipating reading the letter, as she made the tea, and took her time to enjoy the anticipation. When she was finished, she went up to her room and curled up in the window seat and opened the letter, setting the cup of tea on the window sill beside her.
My Dearest Miss Susan,
(Forgive the Miss—we must be beyond that now, yes?)
Tomorrow is my first port of call and I promised you a letter. I am so sorry I was unable to write you when I left for sea, but I was pushed for time, as I needed to check out the Resolute before we sailed, and had to pass on my good-byes through my family’s letter.
Land ho, the Bos’n just cried. We had a fair wind and port is at hand, so I must hurry this letter along.
Our first port is Genoa so you at least know I am in the Mediterranean.
Susan, know that I think of you often. Even though our recent acquaintance has been short, I savor and treasure the moments we shared in our short week together. I think of our dancing together and the warmth of your smile. These keep me going through long nights alone.
And I want you to know that I made some inquiries about what we discussed during our last meeting together. And I have inquired about the availability of naval postings at English ports. There are openings, but it would mean a land job. My days of sailing would be over. And the possibility of advancement would be limited. That is a very difficult decision for me to make, but I am not averse to considering it.
I have also inquired about shorter sea voyages, and that is being investigated, but I have no answer for you about that, as yet either.
And my question for you is… how attached are you to your teaching? If relocation were a possibility is it something you could consider? Perhaps I could be stationed in Portsmouth, Plymouth or such. Think about it and let me know your thoughts. Of course, it is far too early to make any decisions, but these are issues for us to discuss.
My warrant officer is calling and I must prepare to bring the Resolute into port.
So I must say farewell for now. I hope you are well and relatively happy (relatively because I am not with you).
Ever your devoted servant,
Daniel
Susan put the letter on her lap and took another sip of tea as she gazed out the window. The afternoon shadows were lengthening and the sun was peeking in and out between the scuttling clouds. Might a storm be coming on?
Whatever her decision was to be about taking the post at Haverford House, she realized she must keep Captain Daniel in mind. It was clear he was serious about her. And she had to admit, she did have feelings for him.
Aside from the difficulties presented by him being a sea captain, he was proving to be an honorable and trustworthy suitor. And he was handsome. She leaned back against the window seat frame and closed her eyes, trying to imagine his face. It was pleasing, indeed. But when he had touched her, she did not get that sharp surge of energy that she felt when John touched her. She sighed.
“So finally,” Susan said, “he asked you?”
“And how is it you are the only one of us not married or engaged?” Katherine asked.
“I guess the fairest is to be the last,” Susan teased.
“Has Daniel written you?”
Susan nodded. “He did. I got his letter just the other day. From Genoa.”
“Well, we didn’t get one,” Katherine complained.
“They were early into port and he had to dash my letter off at the last minute.”
“How is he?”
“He seems fine. He’s not been gone that long. I was surprised to get a letter so soon, actually. But enough about me. Tell me about your engagement. Have you picked a wedding date yet?”
Katherine was ironing and put the iron back on the stove top to heat up again. She tucked a wisp of her hair back into the pile of rust colored hair atop her head. She leaned back against a kitchen cupboard.
“Not yet. It seems his sister is to be married at Christmas so he wants to wait until the spring or early summer for us.”
“Are you content with that?” Susan asked.
“No.” Katherine said emphatically but then whispered, “But I don’t mind really. Gives me more time to plan the wedding.”
Susan was leaning against the kitchen doorframe. “But, although I’m delighted with your news, I really came to ask for your advice.”
Katherine’s interest was piqued. “Oh? Spill it, sister.”
“Now, I’m telling you this in the strictest of confidences. And I mean it. No gossiping with your mother. Do you promise?”
Katherine crossed her heart and locked her lips with an imaginary key.
“Very well.”
And Susan told Katherine all about the proposal from Aunt Clarissa.
“Good heavens. Now that is a good gossip.”
Susan frowned.
“But I won’t. I won’t. I promise,” Katherine insisted raising her hands in the air.
“So what do you think I should do? It’s not an obvious or easy decision for me.”
“And why not,” Katherine asked. “It seems quite obvious to me. It’s a splendid opportunity. Why wouldn’t you snatch that up immediately?”
“But my parents? My teaching? And I won’t be as close to you anymore.”
“If you were married you would already be gone and your parents would have gotten used to it. And you’ll still be teaching, but the way you like. And as for me… I’m soon to be a married lady and won’t be as close either. Hey, life goes on. You need to seize the opportunity when it presents itself.”
“And what if Daniel and I become… serious?”
“As you told me, there are obstacles there. Cross that bridge when you come to it.”
“But I don’t want to become involved with the child and then abandon her when she begins to count on me.”
“Yes. That is a consideration. If you insert yourself into her life you will be creating an obligation. And that’s something you do need to consider.”
“Big help you are,” Susan teased.
Smoking his pipe, Papa stood wit
h his back to the fireplace, even though there was no fire. It was his station in the sitting room during a family discussion.
Mamma was seated in her chair crocheting, her head bent as she listened to Susan’s presentation.
“I’m seriously considering this offer. What do either of you have to say?” Susan asked.
Neither parent spoke up right away. Papa emptied his pipe, tapping it against the side of the fireplace, then tamped more tobacco into the pipe and relit it.
Mamma worked her mouth in a way that Susan knew what she was thinking.
“Just so you know, I’m inclined to take the offer,” Susan added. “It’s a wonderful opportunity, but it means leaving home and I’m concerned about the two of you.”
“And what about the teaching job you have now? You can’t just walk away from that,” Mamma said as she looked up at Susan.
“Aye, lass. It would not be proper to just up and leave your students at the beginning of the term,” her father said.
Susan knew that. “Yes. I’m thinking right now about finding a replacement.”
“And how likely is that after the school year has already begun?” Mamma asked. “Won’t teachers already have their jobs by now?”
“There’s a young woman, Peggy Alexander, who you may remember I tutored some time back.” Mamma nodded. “She wants very much to teach, but she just missed being hired this school year as she was traveling. I feel quite certain she would love to take over my classes. I’ll go and see her as soon as I’ve accepted the new position.”
“Yes, I remember her,” Mamma said. “Very short—low brow—and had a squint, I seem to remember.”
“But she’ll make a good teacher, Mamma.”
“Hmm,” she replied.
“Now, what you’ve not told me is how the two of you feel about me leaving you alone. It’ll be just the two of you now. Julie will be able to help, but I won’t be here. Can you manage?”
“Louisa is just down the road and stops by almost every day,” Papa said. “I don’t see a problem. Less of us to deal with. Fewer mouths to feed.”
“And less help on the farm, as well,” Susan pointed out.
“Got Jacob for the heavy lifting. Naught else needed, I’d say.”
“And Mamma, what about you? You’ve always got sixpence worth of advice. How to you feel about me leaving?”
“I think it sounds like a fine opportunity. And can’t be bad to double what you’re making now, can it?”
“And what’s she like—this little tyke you’ll be tending to?” Papa asked.
“She’s adorable, but she’s also a challenge. Very withdrawn and in need of a lot of love and attention—and educating.”
“Must be nice to be living in a grand house--servants at your beck and call—posh dinners and gala balls.”
“Mamma, I’m an employee, not a family member or a guest. I’m part of the staff, and I doubt I shall be treated any differently than the rest of them.”
“I hope you’ll not forget us lass. Come by for a visit now and then, won’t you?”
“I shall, Papa.”
Chapter 9
“I’m so happy,” Aunt Clarissa said, as she came over and took Susan’s hands. “I know this is going to make a big difference in our little girl’s life. Thank you. Thank you.”
Clarissa had been sitting under a portico at the back of the house, overlooking the park.
Susan smiled and nodded. “And what do we do now about the Duke? Have you spoken to him about any of our plans?”
“I mentioned I’d been speaking with you about several projects for the household that I had in mind. He seemed willing to listen. And when I got your note saying you were accepting the position and was coming today, I said we would stop by to discuss with him what I was planning.”
“So you’ve not told him that I would be taking care of Elizabeth?” Susan asked with a slightly worried expression.
“Not yet. I thought it best if we told him together, in case he had any questions.”
“I think you’re being a little naughty,” Susan said smiling. “Might you be just a little afraid to tell him all by yourself?”
Aunt lowered her eyes. “Yes, just a little naughty.”
“Then let’s take a deep breath and face the dragon head on, shall we?”
“Yes. A brave front.”
They linked arms and headed toward the entrance to the back of the house.
“Where is he this morning, do you know?” Susan asked.
“I believe he’s in the library. That is where he usually spends his time unless he’s out working on the estate. But would you like to take your things to your suite first? And perhaps we could peek in on Elizabeth as well.”
“I didn’t bring any of my things yet. I wanted to be certain the Duke approved my employment before I cut all my ties,” Susan said.
“Ah. Yes. Probably wise.”
“And I think we should just go ahead and meet with the Duke. I don’t want to prolong this meeting any longer. And if all goes well, then I would love to see Elizabeth.”
“Very well,” Aunt said, glancing at Susan.
They went to the library door and knocked.
“Enter,” John called from inside.
They opened the door and went in. John was seated at his desk and rose as they came in.
“Aunt, Miss Susan, you wished to speak with me?”
John came from behind the desk and walked over to them. He leaned in and kissed his aunt on the cheek. “Please take a seat.” He led them to an area by a large window where there was a seating area. Aunt sat, but Susan stood next to Aunt’s chair. She felt it gave her some support.
“You said something about possible help with the children of the estate workers?” John asked.
Aunt Clarissa held up one finger. “Actually, John, there are a couple of issues we’d like to discuss. And, if you please, hear us out before you respond.
John sat opposite Aunt and nodded for them to proceed.
Aunt carefully laid out in detail her concern for Elizabeth and how Susan would take responsibility for her care and education. Then she asked Susan to talk about the school for the workers’ children. Susan laid out her plan and spoke about a new type of curriculum that would most benefit all the children.
John listened and, as requested, did not speak while they were speaking. But when they were finished, he put his hands together prayer fashion and tapped against his chin in thought—his eyes looking down.
Neither Aunt nor Susan could tell what he was thinking, or what he felt. Finally, he looked up.
“That is quite a proposal. And I have to say I have mixed thoughts and feelings about this.”
“Can you share your concerns, sir?” Susan asked.
“First, I’m quite intrigued by the idea of the school. It’s something I’ve been contemplating for some time but had no idea how to begin. This could be my opportunity.”
“And Elizabeth?” Aunt asked.
John wagged his head—a range of emotions crossing his face. “I… I… am ashamed to say, I am greatly conflicted about Elizabeth.”
“How so,” Aunt asked. “Can’t you see she is no longer a toddler? She’s growing up fast. She’s bright and needs much closer attention if she’s to grow into the fine lady, I’m sure, you wish her to be.”
John cupped his hands over his face. “I’ve been remiss. Remiss. I’m so sorry. I have completely shut her out of my life.” He removed his hands and they could see tears in his eyes. “And I have to say, I’m very grateful for your attention to these issues, Aunt. However, I must tell you that there are some financial considerations that may prevent me from accepting your proposals.”
Aunt seemed shocked. “John… I had no idea. Why have you said nothing to me about this?”
“It’s a recent development, and I was hoping to solve the problem quickly. I felt there was no need to tell you.”
“Can you tell me now?” Aunt asked.
&n
bsp; “I’d rather not. There’s too much flux and too much at stake. I’ll tell you privately when I know more.”
He stood up. “I’m sorry I can’t move forward with your suggestions, but I must get back to work now.”
Aunt stood and took hold of John’s arm. “John, stop, please.” He turned to her. “What if I paid for Elizabeth’s care and later on, when you’ve solved your financial issues, then you could move forward with the school. In the meantime, Susan could develop the new curriculum and prepare to start the school when you’re ready.”
John seemed stunned. “You’d do that? Does Elizabeth mean that much to you?”
“Of course, she does. I’m shocked you would ask me that.”
“I’m sorry. You must forgive me. I’m in a great deal of turmoil just now. Please move forward with your plan for Elizabeth, and when I get this financial mess straightened out I’ll reimburse you for your expenses for Elizabeth.”
“I will.” She put her hand on John’s arm again. “And my dear nephew, please open your heart and spend some time with your daughter. You have shut her out so thoroughly she almost doesn’t know who you are anymore.”
John turned to Susan. “Miss Susan, welcome to the household. I’m sure Elizabeth will benefit greatly from your careful care.”
“Thank you. I’ll do my very best.”
After they left the Duke, they headed upstairs toward Elizabeth’s room.
“Aunt Clarissa, are you comfortable with this arrangement? Aren’t you an employee of the Duke’s?”
“Oh no, my dear, I came to live here after the death of my husband. I have a very nice inheritance, and not wanting to be idle, I offered to run the household. You need not worry for me. I can easily afford your services.”
“But as we’ll not be starting the school for a time yet, I don’t feel right accepting the full salary you promised me. After all, I’ll not be running the school right away.”
“But you will be planning it. And that work deserves compensation.”
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