The Brides of North Barrows by Claire Delacroix

Author:Claire Delacroix
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-990279-66-9
Publisher: Deborah A. Cooke

Chapter 2

Haskell was checking the duke’s linen when the staff belowstairs abruptly fell silent and rose to their feet. He turned to find Miss Armstrong entering the kitchen. The sight of her filled his heart with joy, just as it had the first time he had met her. If anything, she was more lovely than he recalled, tall and slender with a crown of red-gold curly hair. He had seen her only weeks before, but hourly could not be sufficient for Haskell. The young girl he had first admired had grown into a woman, still practical but infinitely more lovely.

She moved with grace and purpose into the kitchen. “Good day, everyone,” she said. “Please do be seated again.” Her smile put the staff immediately at ease. Not all were as quick to sit as she suggested, though: Pierce and Findlay remained standing as did the plump—and excellent—cook, Mrs. Stewart.

Even though Miss Armstrong had not been in residence at the London house for years, it was clear that she was remembered and with fondness. Once, Findlay had been the sole butler, but he had retreated to Airdfinnan to ensure her comfort and Pierce had been hired for the London house since Alexander had been spending more time in London.

Miss Goodenham followed Miss Armstrong, clearly intent upon learning her task. Haskell admired the determination of Alexander’s betrothed to be the best wife possible, but he particularly savored the opportunity to openly look upon Miss Armstrong.

“Pierce and Findlay,” she began and they both bowed. “I should like to immediately address the question of authority in this house while you are both in residence.”

Pierce frowned slightly and Haskell guessed that he feared he would have to answer to Findlay, who had served the family much longer.

“If I may be so bold, Miss Armstrong,” Findlay said with a slight bow of his head. “I should like to request a short break from service while in London. I will be glad to return to Airdfinnan whenever it suits your convenience, of course.”

Miss Armstrong smiled and it seemed to Haskell that the room basked in the sight. He certainly did. “Would you tour the sights, Findlay?”

“No, I would seek some tidings of a cousin of mine.”

“Is she in town?”

“I do not know. She entered the service of a family more than twenty years ago and travelled to the West Indies with them as a governess. I have heard nothing from her in years—of course, she was inclined to correspond with my wife, gone these eight years—so I would like to see if I can learn any tidings of her while in town.” Some of the newer servants gaped at Findlay for this long-winded confession, but Haskell knew the older man was given more leave to be familiar with the family.

To Rupert’s surprise, Miss Goodenham’s eyes widened in surprise. He knew that Miss Armstrong could not see the younger lady’s reaction and wondered at its cause.

Miss Armstrong smiled at the butler. “I have no objection to such a quest, Findlay.

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