The Duke's Ward by Fenella J. Miller

Author:Fenella J. Miller [Miller, Fenella J.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-05-31T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter Ten

Amanda had never ridden through the streets of London so this was an interesting experience for her. The fact that she knew the city far better than her companion was another thing that delighted her.

It was fortunate indeed that neither of their mounts were skittish as the constant racket of passing diligences, hackney cabs, and men and women shouting their wares, might have upset less well-schooled horses.

'Things will improve from now on, Richard, I expect you're relieved to get away from the smell and noise of the East End.'

'I prefer to be amongst ordinary folk and, to be honest, I'm dreading spending the next few weeks when I'll have to rub shoulders with the toplofty. Apart from Perry, I've not met another aristocrat that I didn't want to flatten for his stupidity.'

'In which case, sir, I'll insist that you keep your hands firmly behind your back at all times so nothing untoward takes place.'

'An excellent suggestion, my dear, apart from the fact that doing so would preclude me from dancing with you or your sister.'

The more time she spent in his company the better she liked him. The only explanation she could think of for her fondness was the fact that he was so similar to her in looks and constantly reminded her of her dear departed papa.

She raised her whip and pointed. 'Once we turn into Bond Street, which is the next thoroughfare, it will be far more interesting and much quieter. We traverse from what is referred to as Old Bond Street into New Bond Street and then will turn into Grosvenor Street which leads directly to our destination.'

He wasn't listening but staring across at two young ladies, correctly accompanied by their maidservants, strolling down the pavement.

'Good grief – those bonnets remind me of a coal scuttle – how in God's name can they see where they're going in such ridiculous hats?' She was about to reply when he turned and looked at her directly. His eyes were brimming with amusement. 'I forbid you to wear anything of that sort. I'm quite clear on that matter.'

She nodded. 'As always, your grace, I shall follow your instructions meticulously.' She sighed dramatically and shook her head as if sorely troubled. 'How will my sisters and I manage with no bonnets between us that will meet with your approval? I fear we must resort to borrowing mama's turbans in order to be able to leave the house suitably accoutred.'

His sudden shout of laughter at her nonsense not only startled their horses but also attracted unwanted attention from those within earshot.

By the time they were both safely settled in their saddles they'd reached the turning that they required. Othello had never travelled with her to Town so was unaware they were within half a mile of his new stable. The animals were flagging a bit after so long a journey so they were obliged to remain at a sedate walk.

When they entered Grosvenor Square, she reined in to allow him to take in the magnificence of the central park which was at its very best in late spring.

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