A Fair Pretender Read online

  ‘I would never have hurt Saville willingly. I had no intention of hurting or deceiving him, believe me. As for your friendship; I was aware of the great honor, and grateful for you patronage, and I’m grieved by its loss. I’m truly penitent for the wrong I’ve done you both.’

  ‘Penitent?’ Leaning forward, Charlotte gazed intently into her eyes. Softening, she handed her a handkerchief on which to dry her eyes. ‘An odd word to use … I cannot see you as the type to sacrifice her pride to anyone, Miss Seaton.’

  Which reminded Graine of the sisters of the poor, who had raised her. She’d been trained to follow in their footsteps, and had learned to project a penitent expression despite the turmoil that churned like rancid butter inside her. She could go back to Antigua if need be. She had the skills to teach children and the knowledge to tend to the sick and injured, or assist women in childbirth. All were worthy occupations and her life there would be fulfilling.

  She would not have time to think of Saville, or what life might had been for her if she hadn’t been so foolish. Unlike Charlotte herself, who’d been raised in the lap of luxury, she was not too proud to scrub floors for her bread.

  Taking a deep breath she straightened her shoulders. ‘I am not as proud as you imagine, Charlotte. I bitterly regret my duplicity, but it was not aimed at the earl. In fact, my deceit was not aimed at anyone in particular. I thought my sister had perished and I had a moral right to her estate under the circumstances. I just had no means to prove we were related.’

  ‘Hah! You admit you had no legal right to your sister’s estate, then.’

  ‘It was my father’s wealth before it was my sister’s. I truly thought she was dead.’ But why was she explaining herself to this woman, who had always known privilege and wealth. Her chin tilted upwards. ‘Tell me Charlotte, have you ever had to go without a meal?’

  ‘Certainly not.’

  ‘Have you ever had to carry the sins of your parents on your shoulders, as I have mine. Have you ever been insulted over the circumstances of your birth, as you insulted me.’

  Charlotte’s head cocked to one side. ‘My parents were not sinners. They were legally wed by a bishop in the house of the Lord.’

  ‘Your father was in partnership with mine. The pair were adventurers and thieves. Your father’s title will not change the fact that he was a criminal who was shot by customs officers whilst smuggling contraband. Are you constantly being reminded of that, or did death absolve him of that sin? I didn’t harm anyone, neither did I have an intention to steal what belonged to somebody else.’

  Charlotte’s eyes narrowed. ‘You have an uncomfortable viewpoint of past events.’

  ‘When you have experienced such undeserved scorn and destitution as I have, and when you are stranded in a strange land with no friends or family to turn to, then perhaps you will appreciate better the temptation to improve yourself. When you are given that choice, and when you turn that opportunity down, then, and only then, shall I allow you to preach to me of my shortcomings. Believe me, they are qualities of which I’ve been made well aware of for most of my life.’

  Silence stretched between them for several long moments. Charlotte’s eyes gradually lost some of their hostility as her message was absorbed. Finally, she sighed. ‘You are forthright, and the condemnation in your voice is unpleasant. However, I do believe you are sincere. The fact remains. You would have gone to the altar with my brother, in deceit.’

  ‘I came here to wed John Lamartine,’ Graine reminded her. ‘Had Saville commanded it I would have honored the betrothal agreement. I would have brought John Lamartine the means to better himself and provided him with children. I would even have tolerated your disagreeable Aunt Harriet. Nobody saw fit to properly forewarn me of her––a deceit in itself.’

  Charlotte managed a slight smile at that. ‘I believe Miss Adams intends to drive her from the house when she weds John.’

  ‘ If she weds John Lamartine.’

  ‘If, then.’ Charlotte seated herself. ‘Now we have had our little chat perhaps you’d be good enough to send for your sister so we can be introduced. Saville has told me the family resemblance is too strong to be anything else but as close as you say.’

  ‘How is the earl?’ she said with some anxiety.

  ‘He is well in himself, but reserved, as he always is when people disappoint him. He had a soft heart despite his size, and is talking of retiring to Rushford earlier than he first intended.’

  ‘Oh.’

  ‘I’ve persuaded him to stay, for he needs to wed and produce heirs for the estate.’

  I see.’ Graine’s involuntary utterance was quieter this time, almost defeated.

  ‘There are many candidates of suitable birth and means.’ Charlotte’s eyes sparked her way. ‘I expect he’s learned by now that it’s better to put dreams of love aside and observe the customs of one’s country and station in life. You understand?’

  Straightening her skirts, Graine drew herself up. ‘I understand. You are expressing your disapproval of me––and you put duty before your brother’s happiness.’

  ‘It’s best for the estate.’

  ‘I think your brother is intelligent enough to know what’s best for the estate, which after all, is his. He has an heir in John Lamartine––or your expected infant if it proves to be a boy.’

  One of Charlotte’s hands fluttered to her stomach.

  ‘So you see, your concerns about the future of Rushford Estate are unfounded. Saville is a man who possesses a caring nature so do not count on him picking the most strong and handsome mare in the stable. His attitude towards people of less fortunate circumstance than himself, is most laudable––’ Her voice faltered. ‘But then, I must not discuss those activities which are private to him.’

  Charlotte smiled at that. ‘This has been a illuminating discussion, even though you have been overly forthright, Miss Seaton.’

  ‘We have both been forthright, My Lady. Does your position allow you more right to frankness than mine? Do you feel insult more keenly?’

  ‘I believe that ground has been adequately covered, Miss Seaton, and I have no wish to listen to it again’

  ‘You must excuse me, then. I will fetch my sister. She will be more suited to your exacting tastes, for she’s quiet, polite and good-natured, and possesses all the attributes which I seem to so suddenly lack now my past is made clear.’

  Charlotte allowed herself a small grin when Graine swept from the room. She knew exactly what Saville got up to in the caves at Rushford. It did Graine credit that she hadn’t blurted out the confidence he’d placed in her.

  It was obvious Graine loved her brother. What was as indisputable, Saville loved Graine in equal measure. He lit up at the mention of her name, and even though Graine had made a fool of him, he would not hear a bad word said about her––though his injured pride would not allow him to be drawn into a conversation about her at less than a general level.

  Because she wanted her brother to be happy, she intended to do her best to bring them together. She smiled when Evelyn entered the room and dipped her a curtsy. So this was the woman who was set to rout Aunt Harriet. She didn’t look so fearsome.

  ‘My Lady,’ Evelyn said, her eyes meeting hers directly. ‘I’m honored by this visit. I must tell you first up, so we’re fully aware of where we stand with each other. My sister means much to me. If you slander her name in my presence, I will leave the room immediately and will never receive you again.’

  Taken aback, Charlotte stared at her for a moment, then she smiled. It seemed that Evelyn Adams was just the ally she needed.

  * * * *

  Saville was disinclined to linger in the capital.

  He told himself he stayed for the sake of his cousin. John seemed greatly attracted to the genuine Evelyn Adams. Saville admitted that the woman had also greatly endeared herself to him with her quiet strength. Although she was no great beauty, she was so right in temperament for John. In fact, on the occasions he spen
t talking with John, Evelyn Adams usually became the sole topic of conversation. This astounded Saville, for he’d never expected his academic cousin to become smitten with a woman so lacking in learning.

  ‘For the first time in my life I feel that my studies have a useful purpose,’ John enthused. ‘Evelyn said I should write a series of sermons.’

  ‘Good idea,’ Saville said, trying not to grin as he gazed into his glass. ‘Perhaps you could start with the evils of the slave trade.’

  ‘I could not indulge in anything quite so controversial,’ John murmured doubtfully. ‘The church hierarchy would not like it and I depend on them for my living. Evelyn suggested that mother’s sitting room would make me a good library because there’s more room for shelves. It also has bigger windows to catch the afternoon light so my eyes would not be subjected to so much strain.’

  ‘A good idea.’

  ‘Mother would never agree to it, of course,’ John murmured.

  ‘She would have no choice if Miss Adams decides to wed you. She’s stipulated that Aunt Harriet must move into her own apartments before she’ll even consider marriage.’

  John’s face brightened at the thought before he gazed at him in sudden consternation. ‘Who will inform my mother of this?’

  ‘Why, you must, John,’ Saville said gently, ‘And the sooner you do it, the better, for Miss Adams is becoming admired and it’s possible you might lose her.’

  ‘My mother will be greatly fussed.’

  ‘Then you must make up your mind as to which of the two women you wish to spend the rest of your life with.’

  John wasted only a moment of his scholarly thinking on the subject. ‘As you know, I had not really considered marriage until Miss Adams was presented. She’s competent, trustworthy and fair of face, much more than I expected or deserve. Although she’s not learned on any subject she can manage the household accounts, which will save me the bother.’

  ‘Save me the rest, John.’ Saville said with a grin. ‘I do believe you are in love.’

  ‘I believe I am.’ John cast an anxious glance around his dusty domain, to make sure they were not being overheard, ‘Miss Adams is restful. She does not prattle as most women do. Given the choice I would choose her. I would not like to move to another house, though. Do you think Miss Adams will like living here? Is it grand enough for a women with her wealth?’

  ‘She strikes me as a women of simple taste. I had thought to dispose of this place once you were wed, though.’

  John looked so anxious that Saville laughed. ‘You would then be in the position to buy it, or course. The schoolhouse will bring you in some rental income, and one day Chiswick will be a fashionable suburb. Would you like me to bring the matter to Miss Adams’ attention?’

  ‘Can you not bring yourself to talk to mother, as well. She’ll treat the idea of moving as a tragedy, and you know how melodramatic she can be.’

  Saville had come prepared. ‘Be firm with her, John, for purpose of mind is a quality Miss Adams will wish to see in you. There is an adequately sized house for lease a few miles from here. It’s perfect for Aunt Harriet and I’ve taken an option on it. It’s situated in a quiet street, and the immediate neighbors are both dowagers. I think it will be a suitable abode for Harriet. I will cover the expenses until you are wed. Once Aunt Harriet has settled in I’ll buy her a lap dog and give her an allowance.’ He consulted his pocket watch and gave John the push he needed. ‘If you would like to inform your mother of this now, I will take you both to view it. Be firm, John, your future depends on it,’ he said as John headed reluctantly towards the door.

  A few moments later there came a loud shriek from the direction of Harriet’s sitting room. This was followed by a flurry of shouting and a storm of dramatic sobs. John’s voice was lost and ineffectual amongst it. Sighing, Saville unhurriedly rose to his feet and sauntered towards the sound.

  ‘What on earth is going on?’ he said. ‘My dear Aunt Harriet, do dry your eyes. You don’t want to make a bad impression on the countess, do you?’

  Harriet was wearing brown today. Her eyes came up to his and there wasn’t a trace of tears in them, only suppressed fury when she hissed, ‘Countess?’

  ‘She lives next door to the house we’re viewing. I told her what a wonderful card player you are and she’s quite looking forward to meeting you. They need another player for their set.’

  ‘I suppose that Adams woman you’re intent on marrying put you both up to this,’ Harriet said, and bestowed on her son the darkest of glances as she howled, ‘The very idea, being evicted from my own house without having a say in the matter. Not that I’d have stayed here once you were wed, of course. I’m not one to force myself on anyone, especially if I’m not wanted.’ Her voice took on a whine that set his teeth on edge. ‘However, I didn’t expect my own son to be encouraged to conspire against his poor mother.’

  Saville smiled pleasantly at her. ‘Shall we discuss this in the carriage, Aunt Harriet? Good accommodation is hard to come by in the area and I was lucky to be given first option on it. We‚ must make up our minds quickly though.’

  Although Harriet found plenty to complain about she was impressed by the small, well-furnished house. She was even more impressed by the countess, who by some quirk of fate, turned out to be as loud in dress and manner as she was herself.

  The deal was done. Saville moved Harriet swiftly, before she could change her mind, and within the week. She took her housekeeper and maid with her, and was presented with a pair of King Charles spaniels by Saville, which were immediately ensconced on a pair of silk cushions in the drawing room.

  Soon, Harriet was drawn into a small group of older women and joined in the round of incessant gossip, card playing and charitable works. Saville had never seen her so fully employed, despite the air of unresolved grievance and wounded pride which lingered about her when they met.

  Evelyn was pleased by the turn of events. She agreed to meet with John again to seriously discuss a future together. Soon, he became a regular visitor. The faltering marriage proposal that followed the reunion was accepted, the betrothal papers signed and witnessed.

  Evelyn turned her full attention on Graine, who’d been looking down in the mouth of late. She knew her sister had been avoiding all social diversions in case she ran into Saville again. ‘Now, my dear, you must attend the ball the earl is holding on behalf of John and myself.’

  Graine said, ‘I think I’ll stay quietly at home.’

  Evelyn fixed her with a firm eye. ‘If you refuse to attend I shall regard it as a direct insult. It’s about time you stopped behaving like a mouse and held your head up.’

  ‘I cannot bear to have him look upon me with scorn,’ she whispered.

  ‘Come, come; the earl is more generous hearted than you imagine. Not a whisper of your transgression has leaked out. He is too much the gentleman than to go public with this.’

  ‘You mean, he doesn’t want to make a laughing stock of himself for being duped.’

  ‘Stop being presumptuous. That’s not what I meant, at all.’ Evelyn crossed to where her sister sat and took her chin between her finger and thumb. She scrutinized her pale face. ‘Isn’t it about time you stopped wallowing in self-pity and found some courage?’

  Graine gave a little gasp at the hard words served to her.

  ‘You will have to meet him again one day, so now is as good a time as any. Once the initial exchange is over it will be easier the second time. You will attend the ball, yes?’

  Graine managed a miserable nod.

  ‘Good,’ Evelyn purred. ‘You shall wear that dark red silk ball gown.’

  ‘I don’t like it much. It’s too––’

  ‘It’s perfectly lovely, and in any case, is the only ball gown you possess. I know you have little interest in fashion, but it displays your shoulders to great advantage.’

  Graine made a face. ‘It’s too sophisticated for my taste.’

  ‘London society expects such fashions
to be worn. I will instruct Millie to dress you for the occasion.’

  ‘But Jessie––’

  ‘Will do as she’s told,’ Evelyn said firmly, and that was that as far as she was concerned.

  * * * *

  The day of the ball dawned bright and clear. As Graine couldn’t summon up a credible headache to prevent her attendance, she duly subjected herself to the rigors of Millie’s attention.

  First the bath, scented with perfumed oils. As she lay back in the scented water with Millie’s supple finger massaging perfumed soap over her skin, she began to contemplate the idleness of her life now.

  The sumptuous chamber she occupied here was far removed from the sparsely furnished cell of her childhood, with its hard sleeping mat and the lizards chasing each other in and out of the cracks in the walls.

  Her hands were soft and white now, the calluses long gone. Here, she was waited on hand and foot, served by a large number of servants, and in a manner far grander than the wealthiest of plantation owners could ever imagine. But here, the servants earned a wage, and for the most part were not treated as badly as the West Indian plantation servants, who were drawn directly from the free labor force, then used or abused as the master willed.

  It was easy to stand at a distance and criticize. How would Saville react to seeing such misery on a daily basis, she wondered. Would he harden himself to their plight? Would he accept slavery as a necessary evil, for without the exploitation of slaves the plantation crops would fail. His motives were good, but would have little impact on the problem at large. Saville had never been without and had never been in the position she had, which was why he had difficulty accepting her deception.

  The water streamed over her body when she stood to Millie’s command.

  ‘You’ll be the most beautiful woman at the ball,’ Millie promised, ‘I shouldn’t be surprised if all the men in London are queuing up at the door to propose marriage in the morning.’

  Graine gave a little giggle at the thought, and Millie smiled at her. ‘There, that’s better, Miss. You have a smile fit to break hearts.’