A Lady To Treasure by Marianne Ratcliffe

Author:Marianne Ratcliffe [Ratcliffe, Marianne]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Period Drama Historical Novel
Publisher: Bellows Press
Published: 2023-10-14T22:00:00+00:00

‘Ann, you seem in good spirits,’ Sarah remarked that night at dinner, observing an unusual glimmer in her sister’s eye.

‘Eleanor and Mrs Lowther visited us today.’

‘I’m sorry that I missed them.’

‘They go to town next month and have extended an invitation for us to join them.’

Sarah hated London. Such a crowded, malodorous place. Nothing but pressing business could ever drag her there.

‘I shall be far too busy with the planting,’ she insisted.

‘I thought you would say that,’ Ann replied. ‘I would very much like to go, but if we cannot afford it, I shall, of course, decline.’

Sarah detected a blush on Ann’s cheeks and a suppressed eagerness, far greater than a trip to town would usually excite.

‘You hope, perhaps, to meet with Captain Williams?’

Ann’s colour deepened. ‘He goes to Spain. I’d like to wish him luck before he departs. And I look forward to seeing Louisa again. What is it — a month since she left?’

‘Four weeks to the day,’ Sarah responded absently. Louisa had been often on her mind. Sometimes, it was merely a passing interest, to wonder what she might be doing. On other occasions, usually at night, her thoughts strayed to more intimate pastures. But what of that? Louisa had left with almost no warning, in open pursuit of a prosperous marriage. Sarah hoped she had more pride than to chase after someone who had not the courtesy to say goodbye in person. She realised Ann was still looking at her with eager hope.

‘You must accept, of course,’ she said with a smile. ‘The Lowthers will carry most of the expense, but you will need some pin money.’ Where they would find it, Sarah did not yet know, but she could not bring herself to deny Ann her request. Her sister deserved a chance to enjoy herself for once.

‘I might have been invited,’ protested Lady Kenilborough. ‘Mrs Lowther knows how much I enjoy town. I have many friends there.’

‘We cannot afford the expense of two visitors,’ said Sarah. ‘My sister must go alone. I hope, Ann, that you will pass my compliments on to the gallant Captain Williams.’

‘And to Louisa, of course.’

Sarah coughed.

‘Certainly. Assuming she remembers us.’

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