Chapter10
The following morning, while thefamily was at breakfast, Audrey turned to Jacob. “My darling, I think it’s time we paid a call on our neighbor. If we’re to spend time here, we should be properly introduced, especially as Grace and Kathryn have already talked with Lord Dudley.”
“That’s a splendid idea. Are visiting hours different in the country?”
“A little more relaxed, I would say. Will after luncheon suit?” Audrey asked her husband.
“Yes, that will be fine. I need to finish up a few things before we head out,” Jacob said.
“Audrey, must I attend? These visits are always so boring,” Mia said.
“Dearest, I promise we won’t visit long. You’ll have to get used to these kinds of activities when you are out in Society.”
“I’d be happy to stay behind with Mia,” Kathryn said.
“Are you sure?” Audrey asked.
“Yes. I think Mia and I shall go for a ride and explore a bit more of the estate. Would you like that, Mia?”
“Oh, yes. That’s a wonderful idea,” Mia said, practically jumping out of her seat.
Audrey narrowed her eyes as she looked at her youngest sister. She was skeptical of Mia’s sudden enthusiasm for riding a horse. As they’d never owned one, Mia didn’t know how toride. But as she was clearly feigning enthusiasm for the idea to reinforce her unwillingness to visit the neighbors, Audrey decided with a sigh to drop the matter.
“Well, that’s very kind of you, Kathryn. Thank you.”
“Of course.”
“Jacob, I’ve asked Mr. Wallings to go riding with me later today. May he borrow one of the horses?” Grace asked.
Jacob nodded. “Of course. I’ll inform the stablemaster of my permission. I want you to take one of the grooms with you.”
“I will. Thank you, Jacob.”
An hour later, Fletcher, Audrey, and Grace were on their way to the Berkeley estate. As they pulled into the drive, Audrey gasped at the grandeur of the house, with its white columns decorating the front entryway. The house boasted three stories, not counting the attic. “My word, that is an impressive house. There must be dozens of bedchambers.”
“Indeed,” Jacob said with a chuckle. “It makes Dandridge Manor look like a cottage.”
Audrey looked at her husband. “My darling, I love Dandridge Manor. It is perfect for us.”
“Good,” Jacob said, looking fondly at his wife. “I think so too.”
The driver pulled up to the front of the Berkeley manor and jumped down from the bench to open the carriage door.
Jacob got out and handed Audrey and Grace down. They walked to the front door, and he lifted the knocker and let it bang down.
The door opened within moments. “Good day, my lord. May I help you?” the butler asked.
“I’m Fletcher from Dandridge Manor. We’ve come to pay our respects to Lord Berkeley, if he is receiving visitors today,” he said, handing over his card.
“Please come in,” the butler said, taking the card. “I’ll check—”
A young man strode into the foyer. “Tatters, I’ll be happy to receive our guests. Please inform my father we have company.”
“Very good, my lord,” the butler said.
“Please come this way. I’m Lord Dudley,” he said as they walked into the drawing room. “The earl is my father. Shall I ring for tea?”
Fletcher shook his head. “Thank you, but there’s no need, Lord Dudley. We can’t stay long. May I introduce my wife, Lady Fletcher, and I believe you’ve recently met my sister-in-law, Miss Parker.”