The Duke’s Shield by Admirand C.H

Author:Admirand, C.H.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fiction, Romance, Historical
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
Published: 2023-02-02T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eighteen

“Captains Coventry and Bayfield, and Lieutenant Tremayne, your lordship,” Hargrave announced with appropriate reverence.

Viscount Chattsworth rose from where he was seated behind his desk, extending his hand in greeting. “Coventry! I’m surprised to see you.”

“I was meeting with King when your missive arrived,” Coventry said. “Unfortunately, King’s men are all currently on assignment.”

They shook hands. “Then I’m relieved you’re here.” Turning to the men, the viscount waited for the captain to do the introductions.

“Captain David Bayfield, Lieutenant Gryffyn Tremayne,” Coventry said, “may I present Viscount Chattsworth.”

“Thank you for coming in response to my urgent missive. Gentlemen.” With a broad sweep of his hand, the viscount invited them to sit. “My housekeeper, Mrs. Meadowsweet, should be along momentarily with our tea. Hargrave, please remind O’Malley and Garahan that we are waiting for them.”

His butler’s lips twitched, though he did not smile. “They are on their way—momentarily distr…er…detained, your lordship.”

The viscount suspected Garahan was at fault. The man was always trying to charm an extra scone or two out of his cook. “Hurry them along, if you would.”

“At once.”

“Allow me to thank you in advance for your assistance, gentlemen,” the viscount said to the men gathered in the room. “When O’Malley and Garahan arrive, I’ll let them fill you in on the recent attacks my tenant farmers have suffered. Hopefully after a tour of my estate, you will be able to add to the protection plan the duke’s guard already has in place.”

“I noticed a few new faces have been added to the guard,” Coventry remarked.

“It had been my plan to do so—however, a happy event required my full attention, and thankfully O’Malley and Garahan took care of that for me.”

“May I offer my sincere congratulations, Chattsworth,” Coventry said. “I trust Lady Calliope and your new babe are well.”

The viscount smiled. “Aye. I’ve insisted that she rest, but apparently, my countess has other ideas regarding how much rest she requires.”

“I have a similar situation at home,” Coventry said with a knowing smile.

“How are your wife and son?”

“Miranda is healing and has regained more dexterity and strength in her hands. Michael looks taller every morning. It’s quite astounding.”

“I’m pleased to hear the news about them both. I’ve already noticed our son seems to be gaining weight daily. It’s a marvel how quickly he’s growing.”

The men were quietly talking when Hargrave knocked on the open door. “O’Malley and Garahan, your lordship.”

O’Malley shook his head. “I tried to tell him ye were expecting us and didn’t need to be escorted.”

“Aye, but Hargrave is ever the proper servant,” Garahan said.

“Your tea, your lordship.” Hargrave stepped to the side to allow Mrs. Meadowsweet and two footmen to enter. The first footman carried a large tray with the silver tea service. The other footman carried a tray with serving dishes piled high with sandwiches, scones, and a selection of tarts.

“Mrs. Meadowsweet, would you do the honors?” the viscount asked.

“I’d be delighted.” She directed the servants on the placement of the trays. When she was satisfied, she thanked the footmen and dismissed them.

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