The Indebted Earl by Erica Vetsch

Author:Erica Vetsch [Vetsch, Erica]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Published: 2021-03-15T00:00:00+00:00

In spite of his lingering headache and lack of sleep, Charles set about his tasks with unwavering determination the next morning. His first was to call Grayson into the study.

The steward slipped through the door like a wraith, hat in hand, shoulders bowed. He barely raised his chin to look at Charles. His entire demeanor confirmed to Charles that he was not the right man for the job of looking after Gateshead without supervision.

Charles paced the area behind his desk. He always thought better when on his feet, especially when faced with an unpleasant or difficult task.

“Grayson, I will do you the courtesy of not beating about the bush. I have decided to hire another man to take the job of steward here at Gateshead. While you have completed a modicum of work keeping the place together in the absence of leadership, your performance lacked the drive I believe the position requires. I think you will be better suited as a second-in-command, as it were, to a new man. It is my intention to continue with my naval career as soon as a new position opens for me, which will mean I will be away from the estate for long periods of time. The man I select for the job needs to be stern, strict, and a good leader of men. He must have an attention to detail and be accustomed to command. I feel the new steward would be better suited to the job if he came from outside the community, thereby being free of any local ties and loyalties that might prevent him from being evenhanded in his judgments.” He paused his pacing to see how Grayson was taking the news.

Anger flared in the man’s eyes, and then a flicker of … fear? He shifted his weight, staring at the rug.

“This will be a terrible blow to my wife.” He tugged on his collar. “Are you putting us off the place then?” His dark eyes were stark at the possibility. “Please say we can stay on. I’ll do any job. Gamekeeper, groom, even field hand if that’s all you think I’m capable of. But Gateshead is my home. Please don’t send me away.” Desperation wrapped his words, and he mauled his hat in his fists.

What was the man afraid of? His wife’s displeasure? Or possibly disappointing her? Or being jobless? Charles could allay at least some of the man’s anxiety. “No. I will reward your loyalty to the old earl. You did your best, such as it was. If you are willing, you may stay on as the under-steward, assisting the head man with his duties. And you are welcome to lodge in the steward’s cottage for the time being.” He would be gracious. It was the Christian thing to do.

For a moment, a flash of calculation lit Grayson’s eyes, and an eager smile split his face. “I see. Thank you for keeping me on.” He bobbed his head again, this time with more vigor. “When will you

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