Scandal by the Ton by Virginia Henley

Author:Virginia Henley [Henley, Virginia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2013-04-26T21:00:00+00:00

On Sunday, Julia was ensconced in the library, her creative juices flowing and her mind focused on Bess Hardwick's tribulations. She took a light lunch on a tray at her desk, so that her ideas would not be interrupted. Lost in her work, she was surprised when the library door opened and her mother stepped into the room. Luna immediately fled under the desk.

"Don't let me interrupt your studies, Julia." Claire waved her hand in the direction of someone behind her. "Dearest Henry, Earl of Fauconburg wanted to take a look at the place and do a spot of shooting. We'll just be here for the afternoon."

"How are you, Mother?"

"Absolutely blooming." She lowered her voice. "I can confidently declare that I have expectations." Before she closed the door she warned, "Don't encourage that cat, Julia. It should be kept in the stables, not the house. You know how I detest the creatures."

Julia bit her tongue. The feeling is mutual, I'm sure. I hope you leave before it's time for me to go to dinner tonight.

Claire took Henry's arm to guide him away. "My little girl never has her nose out of a book. She uses the library as a schoolroom." She gave Fauconburg a tour of the elegantly furnished mansion and felt extremely encouraged when he took a great deal of interest in everything from the plasterwork, to the crystal chandeliers, the parquet floors, and the mullioned windows.

"My dearest lady, Ashridge Place is far more impressive than I ever imagined."

"You are very kind to say so, Henry dearest, but I am aware it is in need of a man's hand."

"I hope the estate has a plentiful supply of game. I'd like to get some shooting in this afternoon. Will you be joining me, Claire?"

"I think not. While you're off on your hunt, it will give me a chance to take an inventory of the Ashridge treasures: the paintings, the silver, the Chinese porcelain and objets d'art."

"Yes, it is vitally important to list everything so you can ascertain its value."

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