Sunday's Child by Dilly Court

Author:Dilly Court [Court, Dilly]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Published: 2022-04-06T17:00:00+00:00

Chapter Fourteen

Rosalind folded her hands in her lap, avoiding Nancy’s anxious gaze. ‘It all started with a visit from Lady Pentelow.’

‘I thought she never left Trevenor these days.’

‘She doesn’t usually, which made her sudden appearance quite disturbing. It’s all down to Piers, as usual.’

‘What has he done now? Didn’t he receive a pardon?’

‘Yes, he was pardoned when Ewart Blaise was tried and found guilty, but Piers could never resist a challenge. Lady Pentelow had word that he had joined a group of mercenaries. He’s involved in blockade running between the armies of the North and the Confederates in the South.’

‘He’s in America?’

‘No, apparently he’s in Barbados. I don’t know anything more but his grandmother was distraught. Piers is her only grandson, Alex is her great-nephew. It’s not quite the same, in her mind.’

Nancy stared into the flames, frowning. ‘But Piers can take care of himself, surely? Why would she be so upset?’

‘The mine hasn’t done well, even with Martin Gibbs running it. Aurelia has left him and has moved back to Trevenor.’

‘I’m confused. What does it matter whether Piers is in Australia or Barbados?’

‘Lady Pentelow wants him to come home. She begged Alex to go to Barbados and persuade Piers to give up what he’s doing and return to Trevenor. If the clay mining business fails, she would be in danger of losing everything. Piers is the only person who can save it, but I was married to him for two years. I know how stubborn he can be.’

‘So Alex has gone to Cornwall. Is that correct?’

‘Yes, and Leo went with him. I am trying to run the house and help Bertie to manage the estate. Frank Bayliss is good man but he isn’t in a position to make decisions when it comes to business matters. We have to make a profit in order to keep going.’

‘I’m so sorry you’ve had this thrust on you, Rosie. But why did Leo go as well as Alex?’

‘The miners threatened to strike. I think Alex thought it best to have someone like Leo to back him up. Bertie couldn’t cope without Wolfe, so Leo went instead.’

‘Doesn’t Walter help you?’

‘Of course he does, to the best of his ability, but he is in the middle of writing his next novel and he’s not very practical. We’re managing, but I worry about Alex and Leo. I keep promising the children that Papa will be home in time for Christmas, although I’m beginning to doubt it.’

Nancy rose to her feet and went to kneel by Rosalind’s side. She grasped her hands and gave them a squeeze. ‘Alex and Leo can look after themselves. I’m certain they’ll see sense and return to Rockwood in time for the festivities.’

‘I hope you’re right. I’m sorry, Nancy. This isn’t much of a homecoming for you. Now, tell me what’s been happening. Did you fall out with my mother? I know how difficult she can be at times.’

Nancy was about to explain when Hester entered the room. She slumped down on the sofa.

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