Clarissa by Jean Jacobsen

Author:Jean Jacobsen [Jacobsen, Jean]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2020-02-25T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter Sixteen

T oday, Abigail was working on the details for Clarissa’s presentation ball. It was to take place in the City, which made some of the planning more difficult. There were the musicians to hire, a menu to prepare and fittings for Clarissa’s ball gowns. So many little details were time consuming, but Clarissa was her only grandchild and she was overjoyed to finally be planning her event.

There was a soft knock on the door followed by, “Begging your pardon Ma’am, Mr. Granger would like a word with you,” announced the maid.

“By all means, show him in.”

“Good morning, Abigail. How are you finding the weather today?”

“Not to my liking, to be sure, Nicholas. I dare say it’s not conducive to painting outside.”

“It’s not so bad, I’ve just returned from a meeting with our man of business regarding my brother’s whereabouts. The ride was long which afforded me much time to think. I’ve come to propose a partnership if you have a few moments to spare.”

With an inquisitive look on her face, Abigail gestured for Nicholas to be seated across from her. “You have piqued my curiosity. Do please continue. Has your brother been found?”

“Thank you for your concern, no Liam has not been located.” A dark mood clouded Nicholas’s face as he continued.

“I’ve been given to understand that the recent auction, as successful as it was, did not proffer the funds you had expected, is that correct? Pardon my forwardness, but I couldn’t ignore Miss Tanner’s remarks the other night regarding her presentation ball expenses.”

“You are quite right, Mr. Granger. However, we will manage somehow, even if it means borrowing money against the estate.” Her chin was slightly elevated as she delivered this last statement.

“I meant no disrespect, Abigail. I may have a solution, which would satisfy both of our needs. My family home in New York City is only occupied by the staff at this time as my parents are in France, as you know.”

With hesitation in her voice now, Abigail said, “Go on, I’m listening,”

“I believe Granger Hall is large enough to accommodate a modest gathering of three hundred guests or so. It can be fully staffed, and they would delight in the opportunity to see it filled with smiling faces and lively music once again.”

“Oh, my, Nicholas, your offer is generous indeed. I have no idea how I could repay you and your father.” She sat back in her chair with slumped shoulders and hands in her lap.

“I have an idea, if you agree. My parents will not be returning from Paris this year and I am in need of a hostess for the season. I want to have an exhibit of my art in the city. I was thinking we could host a dinner party and invite some of societies finest to preview my works. With your skills and social connections, it seems like a perfect solution for both of us. Please, at least consider my offer. You would have the use of Granger Hall for the entire season.

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