The Star of Love by Barbara Cartland

Author:Barbara Cartland
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-906950-65-1
Publisher: Barbara Cartland.com

CHAPTER SEVEN

After the first thunderstruck moment, Charles forced himself to behave normally. Of those present, he was sure most would have heard of his cousin John, but some of them would not know him by sight.

“John,” he said, in a neutral voice. “What an unexpected pleasure.”

“It’s just like your generosity to say so, Charles,” replied John, advancing into the hall. “But I doubt there’s much pleasure for you. I didn’t treat you well the last time I was here, did I? I wouldn’t blame you for throwing me out.”

“Of course I’m not going to do that.”

John extended his hand.

“Will you shake my hand then? Say I am forgiven and let bygones be bygones?”

Charles had no choice but to do so. It was either that or risk an open scandal. Besides, although confused and baffled by his behaviour, he was by no means reluctant. His heart was warm and his nature not quarrelsome. Whatever John might be up to, Charles was glad of a truce.

The cousins shook hands. John’s whole manner was frank, manly and attractive. The onlookers were agreeably impressed, as they could hardly fail to be, by the picture of humility on the one side and graciousness on the other.

Two such handsome young men, so alike, so splendid!

That was what they thought.

With the same quiet air John kissed his grandmother, then his aunt. They embraced him warmly, and Charles could see that they at least were made happy by this visit and by his manner.

“Forgive me for taking you by surprise while you have guests,” John said meekly to Charles. “It’s outrageous of me. I’ll retire quietly.”

“Stay and be introduced first,” said Charles agreeably. “Lord and Lady Markham, this is my cousin John. Vicar – ”

With a modest, agreeable air, John began to do the rounds of the guests, paying each of them a flattering attention that suggested he had been waiting just for this moment. To remarks about his likeness to his cousin, he smiled as though hearing them for the first time instead of the thousandth.

The Arnfields had met him before and knew the story of his behaviour, yet even they were briefly melted by his charm, which, as Charles knew, was considerable when he put his mind to it.

“It’s so nice to see you again,” he told them. “Sir Kenton, I recall the privilege of riding one of your horses some months back. It has remained one of my most pleasant memories.”

“Ah, you mean Sabre,” exclaimed Sir Kenton, softened by any reference to his horses. “Fine animal, but not everyone can ride him as you did.”

“You are too kind.”

He saw Cliona looking at John with a slight frown on her enchanting face, and knew that the moment could not be put off any longer.

“Lady Cliona,” he said formally, “my cousin, John Baxter. John, Lady Cliona Locksley.”

“Your servant, ma’am.”

“Sir,” she murmured. “I’ll have your bags taken up to your room, John,” said Charles abruptly.

“That’s very kind of you, cousin,” said John. “Lady Cliona.” He bowed.

She returned a small curtsy and made for the door with her uncle and aunt.

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