Secrets in the Regency Ballroom: The Wayward Governess / His Counterfeit Condesa

‘No, it is not.’

‘You must have seen much poverty in India.’

‘Yes.’

‘Ironic, is it not, that it should exist in England too, a country we think more civilised in every way?’

There could be no mistaking the earnest tone or the sincerity in her face and he was surprised by both. In his experience young ladies of good family were usually preoccupied with balls and pretty dresses, not the problems of the poor. Would she prove to be one of those worthy but tiresome females eternally devoted to good causes?

‘True,’ he replied, ‘but the war with France has been much to blame. Until trade can be resumed at its normal levels the situation is unlikely to change.’

‘And in the meantime the mill owners lay off more men. The introduction of the steam looms only exacerbates the situation.’

‘Progress cannot be resisted for ever. The wreckers will be brought to a strict accounting eventually.’

She heard the harsh note in his voice and met it with a sympathetic look. After his recent experience it was not surprising that he should be angry.

‘Have you any idea who was responsible for shooting you?’ she asked.

‘No, but I do intend to find out.’

‘You will put yourself in great danger.’

‘So I apprehend.’

‘I wish you would not.’

‘Why?’

Again the grey gaze met hers and it was she who looked away first.

‘Because I would not see you killed. There has been enough bloodshed of late.’

‘I am grateful for your concern, but if bloodshed is to be prevented in future the men responsible must be brought to justice. I mean to see that they are.’

The tone, though quiet, was implacable, and for a moment there was an expression in the grey eyes that sent a shiver along her spine. Then it was gone.

‘But these are disagreeable subjects,’ he said. ‘Let us speak of other things.’

‘Such as?’

‘Tell me about yourself.’

‘It would hardly make for interesting conversation.’

‘On the contrary,’ he replied. ‘I find myself curious.’

Her heart missed a beat. ‘About what?’

‘About why a young lady like yourself should bury herself in a place like this.’

‘I am not buried here.’

‘No?’

Ignoring the provocative tone, she lifted her chin.

‘Certainly not. I have good friends and am kept busy enough.’

‘And what do you do for your own amusement? When you are not about your good works?’

‘I sketch, Mr Eden.’

‘Touché!’

Claire’s cheeks flushed a little, not least because she suspected he was the one in control of this situation. It was too dangerous to let it continue so, before he could question her further, she seized the initiative.

‘And what of you, sir?’

In spite of himself he was amused. ‘What of me?’

‘Doctor Greystoke said that you and he are old friends. From your days in India.’

‘That’s right.’

He was glad George had told a partial truth even if he could not divulge his friend’s real name. It made things easier. Anyway, he didn’t want to lie to her.

‘He said you were based in the same barracks at Mandrapore.’

‘Did he also tell you he saved my life?’

The hazel eyes widened. ‘No, he did not.’ She paused. ‘Won’t you tell me how?’

‘My men and I were ambushed by bandits and there was a fierce fight. Many of the force were killed and the rest of us left for dead. Fortunately, another contingent of soldiers happened along and took the survivors to the company barracks at Mandrapore. George Greystoke was the doctor in residence. It was thanks to his efforts that I pulled through. While I was convalescing we played a lot of chess and the friendship developed from there.’

‘He said only that you and he met as a result of his work.’

‘True enough, but also far too modest. Typical of George.’

She smiled. ‘Yes, I believe it is. He is a good and kind man in every way. You must have been glad to see him again after so many years.’

‘It was a welcome surprise, believe me. I had no idea he was here. Last time we spoke of such things his family was living in Richmond.’

‘Miss Greystoke told me that he removed here after their father died.’

‘I remember George left India to take care of the family’s affairs at that time.’

‘He was subsequently offered a position in Helmshaw,’ she explained. ‘When the previous doctor retired.’

‘And you, Miss Davenport?’ he asked. ‘How came you to be in Yorkshire?’

‘I told you, I came to visit Miss Greystoke.’

‘Your parents permitted you to travel alone?’

The pink colour deepened in her face, but she forced herself to meet his gaze.

‘My parents had no say in the matter since they are both dead.’

‘I’m sorry.’

‘Yes, so am I.’

He heard the note of bitterness beneath the words and was surprised since it was at variance with her normally cheerful demeanour.

‘Then whom do you live with now?’

‘With my father’s relations.’

‘And when do you return to them?’

‘I… I have no set plans.’

For a moment there was a heart-thumping silence. She had told as much of the truth as possible and hoped now that he would let the subject drop. Much to her relief he seemed to accept it and merely nodded. Then he handed her the sketchbook.

‘I look forward to seeing the finished picture, Miss Davenport.’

She took it thankfully and retired to her seat by the window to continue the task. For a moment or two he watched and Claire, conscious of that penetrating gaze, had to force herself to ignore it. It was with relief that she heard the rustle of paper as he picked up the news sheets And began to read.

In fact, Marcus barely scanned the page in front of him. His mind was otherwise engaged. Far from accepting her words at face value he found his curiosity roused to a degree she would have found alarming. For all that she tried to pretend that there was nothing unusual in journeying alone to so remote a place as Helmshaw, he was quite undeceived. Ordinarily no respectable young woman would do so. And yet there was nothing in her that he found disreputable. Everything in her manners and appearance spoke of a gentle upbringing. She was no minx; naïve perhaps, but not of doubtful virtue. God knew, he’d had enough experience to judge. And she had spirit, enough anyway to stand up to Jed Stone. Recalling the incident and the perpetrators, Marcus felt only contempt. It was fortunate that he’d been there to intervene. She would have had no chance against such scum as those and he could no more stand by and see a woman assaulted than he could fly. Her self-control had been impressive. Most young women would have been reduced to hysterics by what had happened. Though much shaken, she had not treated him to a fit of the vapours nor even cried, though he could see she had wanted to. It was unexpected and oddly touching, serving to underline her vulnerability. At least he hadn’t come too late that time.

Disturbed by his own train of thought, Marcus laid aside the paper and glanced once more at Claire who, apparently, was engrossed in her drawing. Then he rose and, having excused himself politely, left the room. Claire watched him go, feeling a strange mixture of relief and disappointment. With a conscious effort she forced her attention back to what she was doing.

Marcus stood by the garden wall, looking out at the view. The scenery was beautiful and it was pleasant to feel the sun on his face once more. The enjoyment of the moment was enhanced by the knowledge that but for good fortune and expert doctoring he might never have done so again. His health was improving daily and he would soon be able to dispense with the sling. The inaction of the past few days was beginning to chafe now. Besides, there were several matters requiring his attention. Foremost of these was the need to return to Netherclough and take up the reins of government there.

When he had left it all those years ago he had little thought to see the place again. Who could have foreseen the circumstances that would demand his return? His father would be turning in his grave if he knew that his scapegrace son was now Viscount Destermere. Not without reason either. Thinking of the wild days of his youth and the reckless pranks he had embarked upon, he knew his father had had much to bear. Perhaps if they had been closer… Marcus grimaced inwardly. After their mother’s death, he and Greville were left to a succession of tutors before being packed off to school. They had seen little of their parent. It was Greville that he looked to for advice and guidance, not his father. Their last words together had been spoken in anger and yet, paradoxically, the old man might have been pleased with his son’s performance since. India suited Marcus down to the ground; it provided a disciplined environment but also enough scope for an adventurous spirit. He had loved its diversity, its colour, its vibrant life. Once he had thought to see out his days there. Now fate had decreed otherwise. He had responsibilities and he must fulfil them. It was time to face down the ghosts of the past and go home.

Having come to that decision, he imparted it to his friend when they met a little later. Greystoke heard him in silence and then nodded.

‘If that is what you wish to do then I will support you in any way I can.’

‘Thank you. There is one more thing, George. Before I go, your sister and Miss Davenport must be told of my real identity.’

‘If that is what you want.’

‘I owe them that much.’

‘Ellen will never breathe a word, and I believe that Miss Davenport is both sensible and discreet.’

Marcus nodded. ‘It has sat ill with me to dissemble to those who have done so much towards my recovery. It’s time they knew the truth.’

‘Do you wish me to speak to Ellen?’

‘Yes, as soon as may be. I will see Miss Davenport myself.’

He was waiting by the garden gate when Claire returned from her afternoon walk. At first she did not notice him, her attention on the steep track that led down off the hill, and her heart leapt to see the tall figure standing there. Suddenly she was conscious of her rumpled gown and windblown hair and of the fact that she was carrying her bonnet, not wearing it.

However, if he found anything amiss it was not apparent in his expression. He opened the gate to let her pass and then, offering her his arm, led her across the garden.

‘Will you spare me five minutes of your time?’ he asked. ‘I should like to speak to you.’

‘Of course.’

He found a convenient bench for them to sit on and, having seen her comfortably ensconced, favoured her with an explanation of recent events and of his identity. Claire heard him without interruption. More than anything else she was conscious of things falling into place: so many questions about this man had just been answered. Listening now, she wondered how she could have mistaken Marcus Edenbridge for anything other than the aristocrat he was. Everything about that tall commanding presence proclaimed it, from his physical appearance to his gentlemanly behaviour in championing her cause against Jed Stone and his cronies. It came as no surprise that he should seek out the men who killed his brother, even at the risk of his own life.

‘I apologise for the deception,’ he went on, ‘and I ask for your discretion now. The true identity of Mark Eden must not become generally known.’

‘You may be assured of my silence, sir.’

‘Thank you.’

She paused, dreading to ask the next question, but needing to know the answer. ‘May I ask when you intend to leave for London?’

‘In three days’ time.’

‘I see.’ Her spirits sank. It was hard to visualise this place without him somehow and she knew that his absence would leave a yawning gap.

‘It is a necessary stage in my plans.’

‘So you can announce the return of Viscount Destermere?’

‘Exactly. London will be thin of company at present, but word will get round all the same.’

‘Will you remain there, sir?’

‘No. I shall travel into Essex and collect my ward before returning to Yorkshire.’

Her hand clenched around the ribbons of her bonnet. He was coming back! Then she registered the remainder of what he had just said.

‘Your ward?’

‘Yes, my brother’s child, Lucy. She is six or thereabouts.’

‘Have you never seen her before, then?’

‘No, though, of course, I knew of her existence from Greville’s letters.’

‘Of course.’

‘Her mother died when Lucy was born.’

‘Poor little girl. She has lost a great deal in her short life. Six is too young to be orphaned.’

For a moment he regarded her shrewdly. ‘Yes, you are right.’

‘There is never a right time to lose one’s parents, but children are so vulnerable.’

‘Indeed they are.’

‘I am sure she will welcome some stability after all the disruption she has endured.’

‘In any event, I shall give her a home for as long as she needs it.’ He smiled and for a moment the grey eyes warmed. ‘When I return to Netherclough Hall I hope to have the honour of receiving you there, Miss Davenport, along with Dr and Miss Greystoke.’

At those words, Claire felt her heart miss a beat. She would see him again after all. Almost immediately she told herself not to be so foolish as to refine upon it. He was merely being polite. He owed the Greystokes such an invitation. If she was included, it was because good manners demanded that he did not slight their friend. Once honour was satisfied they would have nothing more to do with each other. The man she had known as Mark Eden was gone, replaced by Viscount Destermere, one who was so far her social superior as to make even the thought of such a connection truly laughable. That was reality. He belonged to another world, a world of wealth, position and power. One day in the not-too-distant future he would marry—a young woman of his own class who would provide the heirs to continue his line. That too was reality and she acknowledged it. All that had happened here would one day be relegated to the back of his memory and she with it. It was an oddly dispiriting thought.

Chapter Four

Lying in bed later that night, Claire found herself unable to sleep for her mind was racing, turning over all she had learnt. It turned too on her situation. This interlude with the Greystokes had been a welcome respite from trouble but, having been here nearly a month, she did not deceive herself that it could continue. They had been more than kind, but she could not impose on them much longer. Besides which, the uneasy thought persisted that her aunt might have kept Ellen’s letters and might remember them now. Her uncle had been made to look a fool, a situation that would not long endure if he so much as suspected there was a remedy. She must find a secure position and soon, a place her uncle would never think of looking.

And then the germ of an idea occurred to her. An idea that was both wild and wonderful together. Could it work? Would she dare suggest it? And if she did, what would be the response? Almost she could see the Viscount’s expression, the cold reserve returning to those grey eyes. He could be an intimidating figure when he chose. Would he consider it the greatest piece of presumption? Would he even listen? Claire bit her lip. There was only one way to find out: she must seek an opportunity to speak with him alone and then ask him.

The first part of her plan proved quite easy; the following morning Dr Greystoke went out on his rounds at ten and Ellen left to call on someone in the town. Their noble guest was ensconced in the parlour, perusing the newspaper. Hearing the door open, he glanced up and, perceiving Claire, rose from his chair and made her an elegant bow.

‘Miss Davenport.’ His gaze swept her from head to toe. ‘No need to ask if you are well.’

‘Thank you, sir.’

Not knowing what else to say, she sat down on the edge of the couch and watched him resume his seat. She swallowed hard. It had all seemed so easy when she was lying in bed last night, but now that the moment had come it was a different matter. There was a knot in her stomach and her mouth felt dry. For all his polished manners he seemed so commanding a presence, so remote from her in every way. How could she have presumed to think he would agree to her request? And yet… She closed her eyes a moment and saw her uncle’s face. Could she risk his finding her because she had lacked the resolution even to try to put her plan into action? Claire lifted her chin.

‘May I speak to you, sir?’

He laid aside the paper. ‘Of course.’

She had his attention. It was now or never. She took a deep breath.

‘I would like a position in your household…as governess to your ward.’ Before he could say a word she hurried on. ‘My education is good. I can speak French and Italian and write a fine hand. I know about arithmetic and the use of the globes. I can play the pianoforte and sing and sew and draw. Miss Greystoke can attest to my family background and character. And I like children. I used to teach my younger cousins.’

It was out. She had said it. With thumping heart Claire waited. For a moment he did not move or speak though the grey gaze never left her face, and under their cool, appraising stare she felt her cheeks grow warm.

‘I confess I am surprised, Miss Davenport,’ he said then. ‘Not by the quality of your education, but by your desire to become a governess.’

‘As I told you, my parents are dead and I must earn my living, sir.’

‘And what of your other relations? The ones with whom you live.’

‘They cannot provide for me indefinitely. I always knew that I should have to find a suitable position one day.’

‘And why do you think this suitable?’

‘Your ward is of excellent family, she is motherless and she needs someone who will look after her.’

‘Do you think that I will not look after her?’

‘No, of course not. I never meant to imply any such thing.’ She paused. ‘But a young girl also needs a woman’s presence.’

‘True. How old are you, Miss Davenport?’

Her colour deepened but she met his eye. ‘I am almost one and twenty.’

‘Are you not a little young for the role?’

‘By no means. I know how it feels to lose one’s parents and how important it is for a child to feel secure, to know that there will always be a sympathetic female presence she can turn to for guidance, someone who will always have her best interests at heart, someone who will really care.’

It came out with quiet passion. In fact, it was not just the tone but the words that took him aback for he could not doubt the sincerity of either. He knew she was speaking from experience. Had her own life been unhappy after the death of her parents? Had that anything to do with the relatives she spoke of? His curiosity mounted and with it the feeling that there was something he wasn’t being told.

‘My estate at Netherclough is remote. Apart from the local village there is no society for miles around. How would you bear the solitariness of the place?’

‘I should bear it very well, sir. I was born in the country and spent the first thirteen years of my life there. Thirteen happy years.’

He heard the wistful note and was unexpectedly touched by it. Even so he felt the need to probe a bit further.

‘And when your parents died you went to live with your father’s relations.’

‘Yes.’ Her heart began to beat a little faster.

‘And your uncle resides in…?’

‘Northamptonshire.’

‘You are a long way from home, aren’t you?’

Not far enough, she thought. Aloud she replied, ‘Oh, not so far. Stage coach travel is improving all the time, is it not?’

‘Is it?’

Claire could have kicked herself. Of course, a man like this would never use stage coaches. Why would he, with a stable of fine horses and numerous carriages at his beck and call?

‘Surely your uncle would be most alarmed by your failure to return home,’ he continued.

‘Not at all, sir, since I should write and inform him of the altered circumstances.’ It was a blatant lie but it couldn’t be helped. She went on, ‘Besides, he would be the last person to stand in my way. He told me so himself.’ That part was true at any rate.

‘I see. And what sort of salary would you require?’

This was something she had not considered and for a moment was thrown. What did governesses earn? Knowing a response was required of her she plucked a figure out of thin air.

‘Thirty pounds per annum.’

‘You set a high price on your skills, Miss Davenport.’

Her cheeks went scarlet. However, if he expected her to retract he was mistaken. Instead her chin lifted.

‘My services are worth the money, sir.’

‘That has yet to be determined.’

‘Then you will employ me?’

If she had hoped not to betray too much eagerness she was wide of the mark. He could see it in her face. Moreover, it was underlain by something akin to desperation. She really wanted this job. Thinking carefully, he weighed up the possibility. His ward was certainly going to need a governess and that was a serious responsibility since whoever filled the role must fit the child to take her place in society one day. Such a person must be intellectually capable and of unimpeachable reputation. Miss Davenport, though young, was well educated and evidently of good family. George and his sister spoke well of her. Though he sensed a mystery somewhere, what did he actually know against her? Nothing, he decided. In spite of the somewhat unusual manner of her arrival in Yorkshire, he believed her reputation to be good. She was courageous; she had come to his aid when he needed it. It was clear that she needed the situation and he was in a position to help.

He remembered all too clearly how it felt when one could do nothing. For a second Lakshmi’s face swam into his mind. Could he abandon another young woman to her fate? The world was a hard place when one did not have the protection of wealth. Claire Davenport was not asking for money; she was asking for the means to earn it and he respected that. Did she not deserve a chance? He threw her a cool, appraising look and made up his mind.

‘Very well,’ he said. ‘Consider yourself hired—for a probationary period of three months. If we are both satisfied with the situation at the end of that time, the post will become permanent.’

For a second she wasn’t sure that she had heard him correctly. Then it sank in and fierce joy swept through her.

‘Thank you, sir. You won’t regret it, I promise you.’

‘See to it that I don’t, Miss Davenport.’ The grey eyes locked with hers. ‘I give you fair warning that I expect the highest standards in every respect. If they are not met the arrangement will be terminated immediately. Is that clear?’

‘Very clear, sir.’

‘As long as we understand each other.’

Claire left him shortly afterwards and, unable to contain her elation, went into the garden. Once there she let out a whoop of joy. Three months! Three months to prove herself. And she would prove herself! She would try by every means in her power to make a success of this. Her uncle would never think of looking for her at Netherclough, and by the time her probation was complete she would have reached her majority. She would be free.

Alone in the parlour the Viscount stood awhile, gazing down into the fire. He was committed now. Time would tell whether the decision was the right one. Yet there was something about Claire Davenport that he found hard to dismiss: beneath that outward show of spirit was an underlying vulnerability. Moreover, he acknowledged that she was a very pretty girl. No doubt his ward would prefer someone young and attractive as a governess. What really mattered, of course, was competence. That would become evident soon enough. Three months would demonstrate whether his decision had been the right one or not.