“Mother, please don’t worry about it. Since I didn’t interact with the women I wasn’t aware of their needs. As, from what I did see, a few were infirmed or elderly so it could have easily slipped their mind.”
“When I started doing the visits, if I wasn’t invited to stay for lunch I’d never meet, much less have a chance to talk, with the men,” Emma added.
Simon watched as his mother relaxed on learning she’d not done anything wrong. He was happy at the determined look in her eyes. He knew she’d do better if and when she resumed doing the visits. Of course, he already had decided the perfect choice for that duty would be Emma, if he ever got the courage up to offer for her.
“However, I do have a little bit of good news. Not only had this young man, Jason Brandon, heard the officer talk, but when I inquired further, he was able to give me a partial description. Before we get into what he looks like, Mother, as you know Emma and I stayed up and worked our way through a few more of the letters. To simplify it we listed down the names of ladies we found. If you’ll excuse me for a moment, I’ll get them.”
When he returned from his desk, he handed several sheets of paper to his mother.
“Carefully look through the lists, and let us know if any names are familiar to you.”
After several minutes of silence, Simon saw his mother smile then look first to Emma then him.
“Yes, I believe the young lady was Capucine Beaumont. Her father was an influential duc in the French court. When the family disappeared, rumors abounded as to where they went, but none of us within the ton were able to learn their direction,” his mother said.
Simon wondered why a duc would flee, especially across the ocean and not return to France. Could it be because bringing a pregnant, unmarried daughter home would cause disgrace to him and the family? From what Simon knew of the French, which was very little except on the battlefield, in the late seventeen-hundreds that could have been a strong possibility. Their fate ending with the national razorblade-le guillotine.
“If she did have a son and he, at some point, returned to France, then the most logical direction the family could have taken would have been to Quebec,” Emma suggested.
“I agree, as it would have been the easiest for him to return later to France. Mother, do you recall what she looked like, such as did she have any Beaumont characteristics?” he said.
He waited while she leaned against the settee back deep in thought then passed his cup to Emma who refilled it. Taking it back, he took a sip and over the lip saw his mother bolt upright.
“Yes, for some reason all the children had red hair and ears which stuck out from their heads too far. Why?”
“You just described the French officer who was traded for one of ours, according to Jason Brandon. He remembered the man because of his unusual name, part English and part French-Justin Beaumont.”
“So you could say now that we know what he looks like, it will be easier to find him?” Emma asked.
“Very possibly. Later, when Harold has rested, I want to talk to him and tell him what we’ve learned. The same goes for Coachman and Hubert. Granted all three were staring at the dangerous ends of pistols, but if they saw the hair color that will help,” Simon said.
“I agree, but it will have to wait as it’s getting close to the time to dress for dinner. After which I’d like to see the letter where Capucine is mentioned. Even though you and Emma read it, I wish to also as I might find something you missed,” Laura announced.
“Of course, and I set it on top of the pile as I suspected you would wish to look it over.”
“Then, I’d suggest after we dine we retire here again,” Simon directed.
“Yes” the duchess declared.
“I agree, Laura.”
“Then shall we meet in the duchess’ parlor in an hour?” Simon uttered.
Standing, Simon assisted Emma to her feet, as his mother had waived him off. They made their way to the second floor. At the junction of the south and ducal wings he bowed before proceeding to his suite. When he entered he was greeted by a smiling Edmond.
“As you have learned, I accepted Harold’s resignation and his recommendation that you take over his position, to which I wholly agree. Now, with that settled I wish to bathe, even though I did it a short while ago. I’ll also need to scrape my beard off, then dress. Since you’ve not laid out clothes for this evening, I’ll wear the dark green jacket and trousers. For the cravat a simple knot will suffice.”
“Might I suggest then The Coachman,” Edmond recommended.
“Perfect.”
With help from his new valet, Simon shed his jacket then alone took care of removing the rest of his clothes.
Later, bathed, freshly shaved, and dressed, he retired to the duchess’ parlor to await the ladies’ arrival.
After a delicious dinner, Simon and Emma waited while his mother read the letter that mentioned Capucine Beaumont.
“Yes, she’s definitely the lady who Philip compromised as she all but declared the fact.”
“Then this Justin could be her child, but why after all these years, hunt down the duke and Simon?” Emma uttered.
“I’m not sure, but I have an idea. Tomorrow I’m going to visit the Brandon farm and talk again with Jason as he might have information. While I’m doing that, Emma, or, Mother, I need you to speak with Harold, Hubert, and Coachman. First hint at the hair color then inquire as to the shooter’s possible mental state. Don’t fret. I’ll be taking along at least two well-armed grooms.”
He was glad they approved of the change in plans. With them talking to the three men they might get more information than he would, especially if Emma asked the questions, as she had a calming way about her. Then again, where he was concerned, she stirred feelings and emotions in him he’d never felt before.
With plans set for the next day, except one that he was keeping to himself, Simon relaxed in his chair.
“Do you know how long you’ll be gone?” Emma asked.
“Yes, I plan on leaving right after breakfast, and since there are several farms in the area we didn’t visit today I wish to stop in and see if they need anything. I should be back by luncheon.”
What Simon failed to mention was that he would also be near the town and planned to stop in to see an old friend. While there, he’d get two fishing poles and a few select flies. That way, if things went as planned, he would convince Emma into trying her hand at catching a few trout for dinner.
A short while later, when Simon noticed neither lady could keep their eyes open, he suggested everyone retire for the evening. They readily agreed, and he followed them to the second floor where they went to their suites. Once his mother and Emma were safely in their rooms, he marched down the hall to his own and hopefully a pleasant night’s sleep. Maybe, with dreams of Emma naked beside or under him.
Chapter Nine
Emma tossed the covers off, swung her legs over the side of the bed, and then slid down until her feet touched the cool floor. Smiling, she put her feet into slippers and stepped over to the bell cord, yanking it twice, which would tell Abby she was awake. She then swept into her private room and took care of her morning routine. She returned to her bedroom just as her maid entered with a breakfast tray piled high with food.
Strolling over to her writing desk, Emma picked up a folded piece if foolscap and handed it to her maid.
“While I eat, I need you to take this to Richmond then return. I will need your help getting into my riding habit,” Emma ordered.
“Yes, m’ lady, and I’ll also arrange for warm water to be brought up so you may soak the aches away.”
“Thank you.”
Emma knew what she was going to be doing would be risky. Any of the grooms, or someone else, might tell Simon they saw her riding. With him gone until luncheon, this would be the only opportunity for her to sit a horse before he started her lessons.
Nervousness started to overtake her, possibly due to the adventure she was ab
out to undertake. Or was it from remembering the dreams she’d had, naked and wrapped in Simon’s arms? Shaking her head to drive those thoughts away, she turned her attention back to the meal.
No sooner had she finished than Abby slipped back into the room.
“Richmond gave me his word none of the grooms would say anything about you riding, and Marigold will be waiting for you.”
So far her plan was starting to come together. If she could get from the palace to the stables without being spotted, everything would be perfect.
“Help me change. I’m going to use the servant stairs, thus hopefully avoiding most of the staff.”
Standing, she stepped over to the bed and slipped out of her dressing gown and nightrail and into her undergarments.
“Good, and if you wish, I can make sure no one sees you,” Abby suggested.
Emma slid into her skirt when a knock on her suite door interrupted her. Who could it be? Simon was already gone.
“Come in.”
Laura stepped in. Emma found her visit odd at this early hour. Even more interesting, she was wearing a deep-purple riding habit.
“Your Grace!”
“Yes, why should you have all the fun with my son? I’ll be riding with you, so if anyone should ask all they will be able to tell him is I was giving you a brief lesson,” Laura teased.
“That’s a wonderful idea. We can then say you were teaching me how to sit side-saddle. I’ll wager that’s something he’s not familiar with,” Emma said.
A giggle from her maid earned the woman a scowl.
“I’m sorry, m’ lady, it won’t happen again.”
“Good, now help me into my top, but for today I’ll forego the cap.”
This time the snicker came from Laura, which brought a smile to Emma’s lips.
In minutes she was properly attired, sans the hat. With a long crop in her hand, Emma followed the duchess down the back stairs. This time though, Abby stayed behind, which Emma was happy to see pleased her maid.
As they made their way toward the stable area, Emma wondered if Coachman and Hubert would be available to talk now or would having Laura along frighten them? Considering the early hour of the day, she suspected the duchess hadn’t had a chance to speak with Harold. They could do that later, together.
“Laura, did you have a chance to check in on Harold yet? As you know, I haven’t.”
“Yes, and he’s doing quite well. I gave him permission to sit up after breakfast but not to overtire himself. This will also give the maids a chance to properly straighten his bed.”
“Has any thought been given as to where he will live?”
“I’ve already set that in motion. I have a small, but comfortable, cottage I used when I wanted to go paint. Sometimes the late duke would sneak off with me for a few days. They were happy times. I would do anything to get them back. Even now I have two maids go sweep and dust it on a weekly basis.”
Emma could hear a touch of sadness in Laura’s voice. Unfortunately, they both knew those days would never happen again, but at least they could find the man responsible for the late duke’s murder. Maybe that would bring a little solace to the grand lady.
“If you don’t mind, I’d love to see it someday?” Emma requested.
“Then you shall. Sometime in the next few days I’ll take you.”
When they approached the stable, Richmond stepped out, bowing.
“Your Grace, Lady Emma, what a pleasure to see you on this fine morning. Both of your horses are waiting for you in their stalls. If you’ll give me a minute, I’ll have them brought out to the riding ring. I’ve already had a mounting block set up by the gate.”
“Thank you Richmond. We’ll meet you around the side then,” Laura said.
“I’ve also made sure Coachman and Hubert will be available so you can talk to them. They did ask me what it was about?”
“I’m sorry but at this time I would rather not say for that might influence their responses,” Emma explained.
“I understand, m’ lady.”
Emma waited until Richmond stepped back into the barn then turned to Laura.
“Dear, that was very wise not giving any information to Richmond. Granted, the man has worked here since before I married the marquis so I can tell you he’s above reproach.”
Laura brought up a good point. How did this Justin learn when and where the duke’s traveling carriage would be? What if this man had kept a watch over the London palace and observed as the coach left? Then again, wouldn’t he have seen Simon ride out from the mews? It seemed the more they dug into this mystery man the more questions arose. Emma was about to inform Laura of her thoughts but was distracted by the arrival of their horses.
“Richmond bring Marigold up to the mounting block so I may instruct Lady Emma.”
Emma wondered if the man had detected the teasing tone in Laura’s voice as she had.
“I’m guessing you want me to do as many things wrong as I can without hurting either myself or the mare?”
“Yes and this way, if it gets back to Simon, he’ll believe your claim that you can’t ride,” Laura said.
“Then shall we have some fun, hopefully at Simon’s expense,” Emma whispered.
Thirty or so minutes later after one of the most unique and funniest riding lessons she’d ever experienced, Emma climbed into a hip bath and perfectly hot water. She leaned back, released a sigh of relief, and could feel the muscles in her legs starting to relax.
“Are you all right, m’ lady?” her maid asked through the door.
“When I finish soaking I’ll want the medium green day dress and slippers, since I don’t plan on going outside for the rest of the day,” she ordered.
“Yes, m’ lady. When you came in you were in such a rush to soak I didn’t get a chance to ask how the lesson went.”
“Do come in so we don’t have to talk so loudly through the door,” Emma directed.
Once her maid was in the room Emma directed her to take a seat on a chair.
“I’d forgotten how many muscles, especially with the right leg, are used when riding side-saddle compared to astride. I’ll take the way men ride over propriety any day.
“Yes, I remember back home you used to cause quite a stir when you’d take that blasted stallion, Thor, out for a gallop,” Abby said.
“But you’ve got to admit he was a handsome beast and went like the wind. I wonder what Mars would be like to ride. From the few rumors I’ve overheard, he could be even faster than my late father’s horse.”
Not hearing a response from Abby, Emma glanced over to see a panicked look in her eyes.
“Don’t worry, I’ve no intentions of riding Mars without permission. If he does allow me then I’ll ride him side saddle, if the beast can handle it.”
“Then, you’ve set my mind at ease. Now, if you’ve finished soaking, let’s get you out, dried off, and dressed as His Grace should be returning soon,” Abby directed.
Emma stepped from the hip bath and onto a soft brown rug. Taking a fire-warmed towel from Abby, Emma was drying when a knock on her suite door made her jump.
“Do you have any idea who that could be? I know His Grace wouldn’t dare be in this corridor. Quietly, go see, and if it’s him tell him he’s not welcome,” she whispered, not sure how sound would carry between the rooms.
Behind the partially closed door Emma listened, curious as to whom it could be. Other than Simon who was only allowed in the blue suite to see Harold, it meant it could be Laura. From where she was hiding Emma heard her maid and, yes, the duchess talking briefly. Hearing the suite door close she stepped out of her private room.
“I recognized Her Grace’s voice but not what was being said.”
“She stopped by to tell you when you’re dressed she’d like you to join her in her parlor.”
Hearing this piece of news made Emma curious. In the past when Laura sent for her, the duchess would have the message delivered by her maid. This was the first time s
he’d done it personally. Could it help to confirm what Coachman and Hubert had told them about the shooter?
“Then we should hurry as I don’t wish to keep her waiting. Instead of the green day dress I’ll wear the deep red one since it buttons up the front. While I’m doing that you can straighten my hair.”
“I agree.”
Emma climbed into fresh undergarments then stepped into the dress and started to button it. Once a few were fastened she took a seat in front of her dressing table and let her maid brush out her hair.
“As I’ve nothing planned for the afternoon, except a possible stroll in the garden, why not put my hair in a chignon. For this evening, though, I think a more formal approach with maybe a flower or two for emphasis.”
Looking in the mirror, she noticed several yellow roses in a vase. They would be perfect and wanted it to be a surprise for Simon. Now she needed to select the proper evening gown to accent them and her eyes.
“Abby, make sure the silk light violet gown is set for this evening along with the matching shawl. As for the flowers pick three of the best roses in the vase on my bedside table to decorate my hair with.”
“Yes, m’ lady, it will be perfect. His Grace, won’t be able to take his eyes off you. Of course, from what some of the staff have said that shouldn’t be a problem as he’s so infatuated by you.”
Emma could feel her face warm. She’d suspected her maid’s words were correct, considering the reactions when she and Simon touched and kissed. It also confirmed what Laura had told her. Abby put the finishing touches to her hair. Emma glanced at her reflection and smiled on seeing the coloring fade away. Satisfied, she stood and swept out of her suite and down to the duchess’ parlor.
At the doorway she looked in and saw Laura settled with a needlepoint in her lap.
“Come in, my dear, and sit beside me. We have much to talk about. There’s no reason for you to be alarmed. I hope. What I wished to discuss, in private and without Simon around, is very important.”
Emma was even more confused than before. Why would his mother wish to talk to her without him around?
The Duke's Bride (The Radcliffe Family Book 1) Page 8
