Merely A Mister by Sherry Lynn Ferguson

Author:Sherry Lynn Ferguson
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2012-09-27T01:56:00+00:00

Hayden anticipated his encounter with Anne Whyte as much as he had anticipated any meeting in years. He knew himself a fool for it; he knew she wished only to discuss her father. But all the same, he recognized the reason for his high spirits.

He had walked again most of that morning and subsequently spent the remainder of the afternoon reading Everett Whyte's first volume. He thought it all the more ironic, then, that escaping from "resting" in his cramped chamber, and in search of a fortifying cup of coffee, he should discover Anne Whyte in such unusual circumstances.

That she had been startled and troubled by her father's activities had been apparent. From the little Hayden had overheard, he thought she had reason for concern. The countryside roiled with resentments and plots, a discontent that the authorities threatened to suppress. Hayden had sense enough to recognize that he could only exercise influence where he held an interest, which was why he had to reach Ullswater and his father's properties. But meantime, he might lend what aid he could to his savior-who, in seeking his counsel, must tolerate his company.

He had his coffee in a corner at the inn. Then, because the place was quieter and more relaxing than the Blue Duck, and likely to have somewhat tastier fare, he ordered an early dinner. While he awaited it, he read an old copy of the Chronicle.

"So you remain here in Hawkshead, Mr. Myles." Perry Wenfield stood before him wearing a many-caped coachman's coat, which Hayden was tempted to inform him had been passe some years. Wenfield repeatedly slapped a riding crop against one of his corduroy-clad thighs, the motion less threatening than indicative of the younger man's temper, peevish and punitive.

"I note that you also remain here, Mr. Winfell," Hayden said easily.

"I visit with Miss Anne Whyte"

"Do you? And where is she?"

"Why"-Wenfield looked disconcerted-"she stays with her friends, the Spragues"

"How fascinatin'." Hayden again turned his attention to the newspaper.

"Look here, Myles," Wenfield said. "I think you ought to know that Miss Whyte and I-that we are engaged."

Hayden looked as blankly upon the puppy as he could. He knew she would have told him. Despite all his teasing, she would have told him if such were the case. Unless she had accepted Wenfield just last night, and that was why she had asked him to call-to tell him she had accepted the nodhead.

Hayden managed a small smile.

"My felicitations," he said. "Had I known of your betrothal last night, I'd have congratulated you"

"Yes, well, we did not know last night. That is, Miss Whyte does not wish it generally known. Not just yet."

"Ah!" Again Myles smiled. "The Spragues do not know?"

'No."

And 1 would wager Anne Whyte does not know either, Hayden thought. He greeted the delivery of his meal with more than the satisfaction of appetite. Perry Wenfield could not be as close to Anne Whyte as he claimed. He was all pride and pomposity. "Won't you be my guest for dinner, Mr.

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