Fletcher started for the stairs. “No, thank you. I think I’ll go check on her. I’ll see you at dinner.”
“Of course.”
He was halfway up the stairs when he stopped and turned around. “Thank you for taking care of Audrey. I appreciate you looking out for her.”
“Always,” Mia said.
Chapter14
Easton was pacing in thehallway, waiting for the Parliamentary session to conclude. Today was the vote on his father’s anti-slavery bill. He hoped it would pass, but he had his doubts. Too many gentlemen counted on the funds from their Caribbean investments to stay solvent. They wouldn’t want to risk their income.
The moment his father walked out of the chamber with Fletcher, he knew the bill hadn’t passed.
“Easton, there was no need for you to wait around. I would have informed you how the vote went,” Lord Devon said.
“I know, but I wanted to lend my support in either case.”
“Well, as you predicted, the bill did not pass, but I refuse to give up.”
“I concur,” Fletcher said. “We need to garner more support, and then we’ll try again.”
“Thank you for supporting my father,” Easton said to him.
“It’s the right thing to do.”
“Father, on a different topic, I’ve been making arrangements for a group trip to Vauxhall Gardens. Would you and Mother care to be included?”
“Who are you inviting?” Lord Devon asked.
“The Fletchers, Sir Samuel and Lady Clifford, Ludlow, and Chandler will bring Lady Arabella as company for Miss Parker.”
“If the Gardners attend, we will as well,” Lord Devon said. “Otherwise, you young people should make a night of it.”
“Of course. I will make inquiries,” Easton said. “Fletcher, how does Saturday next sound? Have you already committed to another engagement?”
Fletcher shook his head. “No, I have not. Saturday sounds perfect.”
“Good. I know Chandler and Ludlow are free that evening as well.”
“Thank you. Now, if you gentlemen will excuse me, I’m headed home to have tea with my wife.”
“Good-bye. I’ll be in touch soon,” Easton said before turning to his father. “Are you headed back to Devon House or the club?”
Lord Devon chuckled. “I think I’ve heard enough debate from my esteemed colleagues for one day. Fletcher has the right idea. Care to join the family for tea?”
“Absolutely.”
The two men left the Parliament building and walked toward Devon House. Jeffers had the door open when they walked up the stairs.
“Is my wife in the drawing room?” Lord Devon asked.
“Yes, my lord, along with Sir Samuel and Lady Clifford,” Jeffers said.
“Excellent. Come, Easton. Let’s partake in a more enjoyable conversation.”
Easton nodded and followed his father into the drawing room.
Lady Devon looked up when they walked in. “My dear, what a lovely surprise. I didn’t expect you home so early, but I’m delighted you’re here.”