Prince of Eden by Marilyn Harris

Author:Marilyn Harris
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Tags: Historical
ISBN: 9780345325921
Publisher: Avon
Published: 1978-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

"And where is your source, sir?" Mr. Bronte inquired, both his voice and speech revealing a certain archaic quality, as though his tutor had been old and harsh.

"My source," Edward replied, trying to hide a smile, "is Eden, North Devon. Just on the channel. Near Exeter." He continued to add qualifications, hoping that at least one would make a diff'erence. None did. And when again all conversation threatened to die, Edward made

a single request. "Jennifer, if you would be so kind as to direct John Murrey to your chambers, we can clear the pavement and make room for others."

Jennifer caught his mood and hurled herself admirably into the task at hand. "This way, John," she called out.

As John started forward with a large trunk, Edward was fearful that he would simply be left alone with the strange Brontes. But Jennifer at the last minute slipped her arm through Miss Bronte's and led her forward.

Edward's head was pounding from the effort of the social exchange. He closed his eyes a moment, feeling an uncomfortable warmth in the cool Yorkshire afternoon.

When he opened his eyes again, he discovered to his dismay that Mr. Bronte was still there, silently regarding him. "Are you well, Mr. Eden?" he inquired.

Laughing in an attempt to hide his weakness, Edward replied, "Quite well, sir, thank you. The journey was long. We are taught in school how limited in scope is our island country. I might suggest that our geographers attempt to traverse its length in a coach and four."

By his own assessment he thought he was doing well enough. But the man merely continued to stare at him.

The silence struck Edward as oppressive. My God, he owed the man nothing, would never see him again after today. "If you'll excuse me, sir. I must attend to my sister's needs and return to the road."

"Your destination, sir?" Mr. Bronte inquired.

It was none of his damn business. Still Edward replied, "London, sir."

"Then you have another great journey ahead of you."

"I do indeed."

Edward was in the process of passing the man by when suddenly Mr. Bronte asked a peculiar question. "Are you—prepared, sir?" he inquired. A slight wind ruffled his already blown hair, giving him a mildly demented look.

"Prepared?" Edward asked, looking back.

But the man seemed disinclined to explain himself. Instead he gave Edward a knowing look of recognition.

Well, he had the clear advantage for Edward hadn't the slightest idea what he was talking about.

Feeling helpless, Edward stood to one side and watched John Murrey deftly hoist the second trunk up onto his back and move with it toward the front door where Jennifer was just emerging with an old woman in tow.

Another introduction. The red-haired Mr. Bronte still was watching him closely. The two women were upon him now, Jennifer calling out, "Edward, come. It gives me great pleasure to present to you Miss Margaret Wooler, headmistress of Roe Head."

"Mr. Eden, my pleasure," the woman smiled. She was short, stout, and wore a white woolen dress. Her voice was fluent and sweet.

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