Chapter6
Peter headed back to thevicarage after a few more visits around town to have a quick luncheon before heading over to Dandridge Manor. He had found out that the manor was about two miles from town, so it shouldn’t be too long a walk. He was excited to see Miss Grace again, that was, if she had in fact accompanied Lord Fletcher to the country.
If he was going to be making regular visits throughout the parish, he would need to acquire a horse, and a cart to help deliver much-needed goods to the parishioners. He hoped Lord Fletcher could offer some advice on where to obtain those. He’d always enjoyed having horses around and was sad when his father refused to let him take his stallion with him to Reading. There was no sense arguing with the earl once his mind was made up, so Peter had to leave the majestic animal behind.
After a quick luncheon of bread and cheese, he began the walk to Dandridge Manor. It was a glorious summer day with a light breeze keeping the temperature pleasant. Even so, he was ever so glad when he turned into the long drive because he was becoming quite warm in his black cassock.
Dandridge Manor was a beautiful stone house, much bigger than he’d expected, and the grounds could use some work. He walked up to the front door and let the knocker bang down.
A tall man opened the door within moments. “Good day, vicar. How may I help you?” the butler asked.
“I’m Mr. Wallings, the new vicar of St. Mary’s, and I’ve come to pay my respects to Lord Fletcher.”
“Of course, sir. I’m Jones. Please do come in. I’ll see if Lord Fletcher is receiving guests.”
“Thank you, Jones.” Peter waited in the foyer while the butler went to check.
It didn’t take long for him to return. “If you’ll follow me, sir, Lord Fletcher will see you now.”
Jones gave a quick knock on the door before opening it and announcing, “Mr. Wallings, St. Mary’s vicar, to see you, my lord.”
Fletcher looked up from the ledger he was reviewing, and his eyes widened in surprise. “Wallings! I thought the name was familiar. You’re the new vicar? Do come in and have a seat.”
Peter extended his hand. “Lord Fletcher, a pleasure to see you again.”
“Oh, none of this ‘my lord’ stuff. Please call me Jacob,” he said, taking Peter’s hand in a firm handshake.
Peter nodded. hiding his surprise. Reminding himself that Fletcher was American and much less formal as a result, he said, “Thank you, I’m Peter.”
“I had no idea when we met in London that you were a vicar,” Jacob said.
“I wasn’t at the time. I was a curate for a London parish before my elevation to the position here. We met while I was spending my last few days in London with Lord Easton before I took up my new post.”
“Ahh… now that makes sense. Would you care for a brandy?” Jacob asked.
Peter nodded. “That would be most welcome. Thank you.”
Jacob went to the table and poured two glasses of the amber liquid before handing one to Peter.
“Thank you. I am a bit parched.”
“How are you settling in at the vicarage?”
“It’s been going quite well so far. I’ve been visiting the parishioners to try to ascertain what they may need. After a quick assessment of the parish books, I did find the poor fund is dangerously low. Many of my parishioners need help before the winter sets in. Would you be willing to contribute more to that fund?”
“Of course, I’m happy to contribute one thousand pounds. No one should go without repairs to their homes.”
Peter expelled a breath, shocked at the generosity. “That’s so kind of you. I can’t thank you enough. I’ll be able to help a great many people with your contribution.”
“It’s my pleasure. I’m sure you’ll do good work with the funds.”
“Thank you again. May I ask one more favor?”
“Of course. What do you need?”
“Do you know the best place to buy a horse and cart? Having a cart will make it easier to deliver goods and supplies to the people.”
“Peter, today is your lucky day because, as it happens, there are two very serviceable carts in my stables. I can’t imagine why there are two, but I certainly don’t need both on the estate. There are also several horses to choose from. Let’s go consult with Mr. Swifton to see which horse is best suited for your purposes.”