The Duke's Alliance Box Set by Miller Fenella J

Author:Miller, Fenella J
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-08-01T14:00:00+00:00

BOOK FOUR

An Accommodating Husband

Chapter One

Castlemere, Essex, April, 1813

'His grace, the Duke of Silchester, my lord.' The butler, Beau misremembered his name, bowed and backed out as if in the presence of royalty.

'What brings you here, my friend? It's not often you venture down to visit me at Castlemere.' Rushton's smile was genuine, but the man looked tired and unhappy. He had not stood up to greet him.

'I was concerned about you, old fellow, I've not seen you since – well – it's so long ago I can scarcely recall the date.' Beau strode across and took a seat opposite without being asked. 'You were invited to spend Christmas at Silchester with your girls, but refused the invitation.'

'I wouldn't inflict those two on anyone. They have run wild these past two years and I've just lost the third governess in as many months. I think I'm going to have to send them away to school and I promised Charlotte on her deathbed that I would never do that.'

'Good God! Are you telling me that you look as miserable as sin because your daughters have got out of hand? Take action, Rushton, bring them into line even if it means putting them over your knee a few times.'

'That's another thing I gave my word I'd never do. This disaster is entirely my own fault. I should have spent more time here with them and not behaved as if I was a single gentleman like yourself.'

The conversation was interrupted as a footman came in with a laden tray. 'Put it down, and then leave us.' Rushton didn't need to give orders; his staff knew him so well they anticipated his every whim. No doubt a chamber was being prepared for himself at this very moment.

Beau strolled across and poured them both a cup of coffee. He ignored the pastries. 'Here, drink this and we shall come up with a solution to this problem.'

After three cups, he certainly felt more awake after his long journey and his friend looked a little better too.

'It's a great shame that my brother Aubrey and his new wife are abroad. Mary has experience with difficult children and would have been ideal to step in and put things right for you.'

'I don't suppose any other member of your family might wish to take them off my hands?' This was said with a wry smile.

'As you know, both my sister and brother are now parents themselves and would not have the time or inclination to step in. However, I have a suggestion that might work for you.'

Rushton wandered over and piled a plate with pastries and tucked into them as if he hadn't eaten for a week. Through a mouthful, he said. 'Go on, I'm waiting to hear your idea.'

'My younger sister, Giselle and my cousin, Beth, decided not to have another Season in London, which surprised me somewhat.'

'I suppose I'm obliged to ask why…'

'Giselle is not overfond of the crush and noise of Town but Beth, two years her junior, is a typical debutante and there's nothing she likes better than a ball or a soirée.

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