Chapter Fifty-One

A Fond Farewell

Wolferton awakened early to have a chat with Monsieur Dupree before he left. He had much in common with the man. Not only did they discuss business matters and the political environment, they spent a great deal speaking of the antics of their two precocious charges. He even gave a standing invitation for Dupree and his daughter to visit whenever they were in the area. “When I see Jaclyn and Josette together, I’m suddenly aware of my age. I’m twice Jaclyn’s age, old enough to be her father.” That statement further depressed him after his prior episode in the conservatory with the tempting young scantily clad woman. Yes, she was no longer a girl, but a full-blooded determined woman.

Monsieur Dupree expressed his thanks to his hosts, and the two young women made their tearful goodbyes with promises of another reunion soon at Jaclyn’s seasonal ball.

Dupree spent a moment in quiet conversation with Camille. Both were in smiles and walked to the group. Wolferton couldn’t help but notice that Josette kept looking over her shoulder.

“Your Grace, you can’t imagine my joy to have this opportunity to stay with you and your family. Jaclyn and I were overjoyed. Would you be kind enough to extend my thanks also to Major Anderson for all his considerations?”

Wolferton nodded. So that’s why Josette was on guard. The major would not arrive without a request from him. He wondered if she just flirted because he was the only available bachelor she’d met. Young girls were known to be flighty. “I’m sure there will be other visits. We do not wish you and your father to become strangers now that we’ve found you.”

Wolferton peered at his sister who extended her hand to Dupree, who kissed it. “Until we meet again.”

Camille’s melodious voice spoke volumes. “Au revoir.”

Wolferton arched an eyebrow at the look they gave to each other, which appeared to be more than friendly. This made him happy.

The footmen assisted them into the carriage, and they waved a fond adieu.

They watched the vehicle roll along the circular drive to the entrance of the estate and then on to the highway to connect them to the Great Northern Road en route to London.

Jaclyn wiped away a tear. Camille went to her and held her hand. “Partings are the sorrow necessary to prepare us for the joy to meet again. Come, let’s go inside. The wind starts to howl.”

Jaclyn’s hand went to her pocket and tightened around a letter.

Camille asked, “Do you want to tell me something?”

“It’s a note Josette asked me to give to the major. He couldn’t be here to wish her a safe trip. It wouldn’t be proper, and Wolferton might object. I’ll walk around the back of the stable and find him. I do feel Josette is serious about him.”

They walked back into the manor house, each on their errands. Wolferton followed and went to his study to review his correspondence. On the letter tray was an envelope forwarded by the School Master at the Quarters School.

He placed his hand to his forehead to ease the ache, more stressful than critical, and certainly all about Jaclyn. With his dagger opener, he removed the seal, unfolded the paper, and read.

Sir:

I regret to advise you that one of our boys, Matthew Higgins, has gotten into a difficulty with the constabulary. They returned him to us after a bout of drinking and fighting. I was able to explain that I am the School Master in charge, but they wish to speak to the principal of our school and I could not get a response from you. Your barrister assured me he would see to its delivery to you.

There is to be a hearing two days after the date of this letter and we are to appear before the court. If you do not appear in time, I will do my best to explain my position and the school’s discipline about intoxication, etc. and the request for reimbursement by the pub keeper.

At your service,

John R. Pidgeon

Wolferton reread the letter and placed it aside. He rang for Halbert, then explained the situation to his batman and instructed he prepare for his departure to London.

“Are the ladies to accompany you?” he asked.

He shook his head, but soon Camille walked in on the conversation. “Where are you going that we can’t come with you?” Her voice shook. Her expression questioned her lack of knowledge for his departure.

Wolferton exhaled in exasperation. “There are some places where ladies cannot go with their men.” He stood and glanced at the letter.

Halbert remained at attention awaiting instructions.

“If you leave without us, we are helpless if Lord Halifax pops in without an invitation. Please give thought to that. Who will aid me if it is necessary to eject him from the premises?”

She had a good point.

Halbert cleared his throat. “I understand that one of the guards had to dissuade a merchant from entering the grounds, Your Grace. The person in question had golden blond hair.”

Wolferton’s anger escalated. “Why wasn’t he apprehended?” He turned and paced behind his desk.

“He indicated a mistake of address and left when asked, sir.”

Wolferton stormed toward Camille. “Prepare to pack now. We will leave in four hours’ time. Take only travel necessities. We will return as soon as my business concludes. Both of you have enough clothing at the London townhouse to establish a fashion shop.” Bloody hell.

“I see you’re in a difficult mood. I’ll alert Jaclyn, and we will be ready on time.” She stormed out of his office and shut the door with a thud.

Halbert prepared to leave.

“Make sure I have pistols and two rifles in the traveling carriage with sufficient ammunition. Sword cane and boot holster also. Halifax’s too clever for his good. You’ll come also.”

Halbert hurried on his mission.

As Wolferton was about to reconcile his thoughts, Jaclyn entered, rustling skirts and a pale face. “Why are we leaving, Radolf? We’re happy here. You’re not going to have me meet suitors. You promised you wouldn’t.” Tears rolled down her cheeks.

“Balderdash. It would be respectful if the women of this household would recognize that there are times I must make hasty decisions. This is one of them. I will explain much later. Right now, we have to leave. I ask that you trust my judgment.”

More sniffles ensued. Wolferton removed a handkerchief from his breast pocket and walked toward Jaclyn. He patted away tears, but she kept her face from him.

“Jaclyn, I give you my word of honor—no suitors. We will return as soon as we can. I too am happy here in Hertfordshire. Be a darling and start packing, or we will leave without your luggage.” He smiled and winked, turned her around and ushered his ward out the door. “Hurry, before it is too late. I don’t wish to travel in the dark. By the way, you are lovely in that day dress.”

Jaclyn turned and ran to him. “I have one errand to perform. I will do it and then pack.”

Wolferton stopped. “What errand? Where?” he growled.

“I have to deliver a letter to the major.”

“From who?” His fingers tapped the desk in staccato time.

“Josette. It’s her farewell letter. Not farewell, but you know what I mean.”

“I don’t know what you mean. Farewell is farewell. I’m attacked on all sides by romantics. Very well, deliver the letter. I’ll have a footman accompany you. Do not tarry. Agreed?” Again, he reverted to a smile at the now-frightened-out-of-wits girl.

She nodded.

Halbert appeared with a footman without being summoned.

Wolferton pulled his watch out of his pocket, checked the time, and thrust it back. They’d already lost a precious three-quarters of an hour. “Halbert, we will leave promptly on time. Make it happen. I don’t care if you have to tie them to the coach.”

“Yes, Your Grace. All will be in readiness.”

He departed his study, skipped up the steps, turned right at the landing and raced to his bedroom suite. His valet was prepared with traveling attire, and minor luggage.

“The pistols and rifles?” Wolferton asked.

“In the usual spot behind the seat, as in the old days, Your Grace.”

“Good. Hurry with my shave.”

Restless like a pacing lion, inside his heartbeat throbbed so much he would have sworn every one could hear it.

Something was wrong.