-9- Truth Be Told

Lady Winter and Laura reached the top of the stairs at the same time. They embraced and Laura told her aunt, “Do not worry, Uncle Simon will be all right. I heard his voice just now, as I passed his chambers. I believe my godfather is inside with him.” Reassured by her niece’s smile, her aunt led the way to the parlor. As they entered the room, Sir Harry stood up saying, “The doctor said your uncle was asking for Lord Stanton. He has been with him this past quarter hour.” He glanced at Lady Winter, but clearly, he only had eyes for the young girl before him.

Offering an arm to each lady, he escorted them to the sofa. After the ladies took their seat, he settled into a chair, crossing his long legs, his boots reflecting the candles’ glow. They discussed the accident and wondered aloud if they should postpone their departure for London. Her aunt said she was unsure if Uncle Simon would be allowed to travel.

Uncle Simon had also been included in Lady Winter’s invitation to spend the upcoming season in the London townhouse. It had been rented for six months. The leasing agent had told her that it was very large, and would easily accommodate a big family.

Lady Winter shrugged her shoulders stating the obvious, “I am certain the good doctor will tell us his decision, just as soon as he joins us.”

They did not have long to wait. Both Lord Stanton and Dr. Edwards entered the sitting room. The doctor outlined the care their relative would need. “Lady Winter, your uncle requires rest. I was told his man would be arriving tomorrow. Once I have examined him in the morning, I shall let you know my findings.” He turned toward Lord Stanton and continued, “I really rather doubt he will be up to traveling tomorrow, but perhaps the day after. It all depends on his progress.”

Bentley appeared in the doorway to announce that dinner was ready. The doctor politely refused Lady Winter’s invitation to dine, because he was needed elsewhere. As he was leaving the house, he promised to return at once if needed. Otherwise, he would be back by nine o’clock tomorrow morning.

The men offered the ladies escort and they all walked into the dining room. Once seated, the servants served them Chef’s delicious supper. They discreetly stood by and performed their duties beautifully.

The diners were unusually quiet, each lost in thought about Uncle Simon and their impending travel plans. Lady Laura thought again about the stranger she saw speaking with her uncle. Lord Stanton pondered the words the injured man had imparted. Lady Winter watched the expressions on Lord Stanton’s face. Sir Harry seemed to be enjoying the food, all the while trying to muster the courage to ask Lady Laura to join him for a walk after dinner.

Upstairs, Alice stretched, yawned and jumped down from the bed. Noticing how wobbly her legs felt, she shook her head quickly, as if to clear her thoughts. The small cat walked slowly downstairs, occasionally bumping into the walls, table legs and anything directly in her path. Finding her way to where her mistress was sitting, she rubbed against Laura’s leg emitting a faint meow, and Laura bent down to pet her.

“Alice, you’re finally awake,” she said. Alice walked over to stand beside the serving table, bumping into Alfred’s leg and sitting down abruptly. Laura was out of her chair in an instant, scooping her up and telling her aunt, “I do not know what in the world is the matter with her. When I tried to rouse her earlier she did not respond normally. I do hope she is not ill,” she said worriedly, a concerned look shadowing her face.

Just then, Chef Armand entered the room to ask Lady Winter how she found the dinner. As he noticed the cat, he and Alice exchanged telling looks. “Lady Laura,” the Chef confessed, “Truth be told I caught your little Alice drinking from a cup of milk to which I had added brandy. She had consumed quite a lot before I could take it away from her. No doubt, she slept a long time.” Everyone burst out laughing and the amused Chef returned to his kitchen to recount the tale to the household staff.

“Oh, Alice!” exclaimed a relieved Laura. “What will you get into next?” she asked, giving her pet a hug and kiss. Alice, looked smug and promptly fell asleep. A smiling Laura carried her to the drawing room. Laying Alice on the settee she covered her small body with a light shawl. Alice’s purrs turned into loud snores and Laura sat beside her, stroking her pet’s head. She was so glad nothing was wrong. Alice was very naughty drinking milk laced with brandy.

Standing up to rejoin the others, she noticed an object on the floor. Bending down, she picked up a small dark brown leather pouch. Looking inside, her mouth formed an Oh, for she was surprised by what she found.

-8- Good News and Finding Alice

With just the ticking of the hands of the grandfather clock, as they moved from minute to minute, shadows cast their long impressions of the waning afternoon on the walls of the foyer. Tea had been duly drunk, and the tray removed. Everyone waited as the minutes turned into an hour.

In the meantime, Mrs. Willoughby voiced Chef Armand’s inquiry, if he could prepare something special for Lady Winter and her guests. Looking relieved to be thinking of something normal, she agreed to whatever Chef wanted to fix. The man could always tempt her appetite. The very competent housekeeper politely thanked her mistress, curtsied and returned to the kitchen. Once there, she imparted her ladyship’s message telling the chef, that tonight, he had carte blanche`. He began supper preparations at once.

The drawing room door slowly opened and Dr. Edwards made his way over to Lady Winter. As she stood up, he said, “All is well and he will fully recover.” There was an audible sigh from those present. “But I should like him to have a meal of soup and tea.” Seeing everyone’s relief he continued, “I have instructed Alfred to make a stretcher. He, along with Lord Stanton, will carry your uncle above stairs.

Doctor Edwards looked around at the young people, saying with emphasis, “He needs to be kept quiet. At present, he is confused and questions will only upset him. I have prepared a light sedative for any discomfort. Because of his head injury, he should not be allowed to sleep for at least three hours.” Making sure they all understood his instructions, he moved back into the drawing room, just as Lord Stanton was leaving the room, and closed the door behind him.

He took Lady Winter’s hand in his, and assured her there was nothing to worry about. Turning toward Sir Harry, he added that they should prepare to leave, as soon as they got the injured man upstairs. His horses had been standing too long. But Laura told him, “Your driver left word over an hour ago, that he was taking the team and carriage to the stables. He requested that you send word, as to when he should return.” Horton would be rewarded for his quick thinking, thought his lordship.

He had never gotten the chance to speak with Uncle Simon, about the intended message for the Home Office. Perhaps before he left, he would slip upstairs, to see if the older man was up to talking. Turning back to Lady Winter, he was about to ask her something, but she spoke up first.

“If it would not interfere with your evening, would you and Sir Harry mind staying to dine with Laura and me?” she asked, her steady gaze all but imploring him to stay. “I should feel better having you gentlemen about until uncle is settled,” she explained calmly, before looking pointedly at her niece. Lady Laura joined in agreeing, “Aunt is right. This whole business has been so unsettling, and I believe we would feel better in case Uncle Simon needs someone strong to help him.” His own man will not be arriving until tomorrow afternoon.

Both Sir Harry and Lord Stanton readily agreed. Lady Winter asked Mary to tell Chef that there would be four to dine. And she conveyed what the doctor ordered for her uncle to eat. Mary bobbed a curtsy and hastened to the kitchen. Once there, she reported to the staff that the old gentleman was doing much better. A sigh of relief escaped everyone’s lips. The kitchen became a hub of conversation. And for once, even Chef Armand did not mind their chatter.

Laura noticed her maid at the top of the staircase, beckoning her to come up. Excusing herself, she walked quickly upstairs to see what Sarah wanted. “What is it Sarah?” she asked as she reached the landing. But Sarah, looking worried, did not reply at once. Laura took the girl’s hand saying, “Sarah, what is wrong, you appear upset.”

Nodding her head, the maid exclaimed, “I didn’t want to trouble you, with your uncle hurt and all, but you need to know miss,” she got out. She turned, and with her mistress close behind, they went down to the room Laura occupied. When they entered the bedchamber, Sarah pointed to the trunk on the floor. It lay open and when they looked inside, they saw Alice lying on top of the clothes, Sarah had been packing.” Was this why her maid was so upset Laura wondered?

Laura admonished her lightly, “Alice you should not be on my clean clothes.” Reaching for Alice, even though she touched her, the small cat lay unresponsive. Her little white chest was moving in rhythmic intervals. She appeared to be asleep. “Alice!” her young mistress called, shaking the cat. She repeatedly tried to rouse her.

Picking Alice up, Laura turned to Sarah demanding, “When did you find her?” Sarah replied, “Just a few minutes ago, miss. I tried to get her to jump out but she wouldn’t wake up.” Alice finally stirred in Laura’s arms and opened her sleepy eyes. Emitting a big yawn, she curled into a ball, and nestled against Laura’s heart.

Lady Laura stated, “This is not like her at all. You saw how I tried to rouse her, Sarah. What do you think is wrong with her?” she asked. Sarah said she had no idea. After observing Alice begin to display a more normal behavior said, “I do thank you for telling me Sarah, but in future, if you notice anything wrong with Alice, please let me know at once,” she instructed. Sarah promised her she would.

They discussed outfits and such until it was time for dinner. After changing her gown, Laura watched Alice as she lay stretched out on the bed. Satisfied that her little kitty was acting herself once more, Laura went downstairs to join the others.

-7- A Surprise Return

After the men handed the ladies into the plush carriage, they joined them and sat opposite, with their backs to the driver. Horton, Lord Stanton’s driver, shook the reins gently and the horses began walking forward. Not seeing where they were going, but only where they had been was just fine, as the visions that sat before them were breathtakingly beautiful – Laura with her dewy countenance, and Lady Winter with her calm reserve, which only enhanced her radiance. Both ladies were dressed in pretty gowns, their parasols held overhead shading them from the sun’s rays.

Everyone was familiar with Brighton’s scenery and attractions, so they conversed while the wheels turned, bringing them ever closer to the shore. The salty air was fresh and a good breeze was keeping the air cooled. Seagulls floated in the sky overhead, their calls filling the air. What a beautiful day.

Upon their return, they were met by a flustered Bentley, who practically ran out to greet the group, as they stepped out of the carriage. Bowing toward them he turned at once to Lady Winter, exclaiming, “My lady. Please come quickly. It’s your uncle. Alfred found him lying on the drawing room floor, and he is still unconscious.” His agitation showing he turned abruptly, leading the way. Lady Winter let out a little cry and followed.

Lord Stanton beat them to the front door, his long legs carrying him swiftly to the drawing room. Once there, he took in the entire scene with a practiced glance. The housekeeper, Mrs. Willoughby, Alfred and Mary were all standing over the now prone gentleman, whose face was drained of color. He looked so small and vulnerable lying there.

Alfred must have picked him up and placed him on the settee. Mary was holding a now bloodstained cloth against the old man’s forehead. Her worried look and unspoken words saying what everyone was thinking. He must have fallen somehow and hit his head. They all knew he was a bit shaky on his feet. The hand bell was lying on its side, and had rolled underneath a table.

Lord Stanton demanded “Did you send for the doctor?” He pulled Mary’s hand away to see the full extent of Uncle Simon’s injuries. The bleeding right above his left temple had almost stopped but there was a nasty gash. A bruise was forming and a lump was rising beneath his scalp. Bentley replied shakily, “Yes, my lord, Sarah is fetching him now.”

By now, Lady Winter, Laura and Sir Harry had joined them, asking what happened, their concern written on their faces. Lady Laura dropped to her knees and placed her hand on the top of Uncle Simon’s chest. “I feel his heart beating,” she pronounced. She studied his breathing and cried, “Uncle Simon, we are here. Please open your eyes.” She pleaded, frantically squeezing his frail hand. Bending her head she offered up a prayer.

Lady Winter took Laura’s hand and led her to the sofa. “Take a seat my dear and let the doctor examine him,” she said gently, for indeed, the doctor had arrived and stood looking down at Uncle Simon. Sarah, who now stood in the doorway, looked on and said, “I told the doctor how we found him. Will he be all right?” she asked.

The doctor asked Lord Stanton and Mrs. Willoughby to stay, and ordered everyone else from the room. “Let my patient have quiet so I may examine him.” They all shuffled out of the room.

Taking seats in the foyer, everyone looked strained. Sir Harry stood almost as soon as he had taken a seat to begin pacing. “He was worried before we left,” he told Lady Winter. She asked, “What are you speaking about?” Sir Harry looked aghast that he let his previous observation of the older gentleman slip.

“Lady Winter,” he began, “It was an impression I had, is all. Before we left he seemed worried about something. Lord Stanton spoke with him for a few minutes. When we left he seemed relieved,” he confided. “Perhaps I am wrong. Let us wait to see what Lord Stanton can tell us,” he finished.

Lady Laura stood and paced about, too. Mary asked if anyone would care for tea. Lady Winter told her that would be a good idea and Mary, glad to be distracted, headed for the kitchen. The room fell quiet and they waited. What a surprising turn of events.

-6- Not Drawing Conclusions

Lady Winter and Laura excused themselves, retiring upstairs to prepare for their outing. It promised to be a bright sunny day with no chance of rain. The summer’s heat had not been too bad for this time of year, but they knew they would need their parasols to protect their delicate skin. Freckles did not become a lady. And a suntan would never do.

The men were left to discuss matters of business and their horses while they awaited the ladies’ return. Uncle Simon nonchalantly slipped his hand into his pocket to touch the silver box hidden there. Frowning to himself, he wondered once again why he needed to keep quiet about it and thought perhaps he might confide in Lord Stanton, who was more worldly than he. Since he was getting up in age he wasn’t sure he was best suited for the task set before him.

An opportunity soon presented itself when Sir Harry got up abruptly, excused himself and left the room. Uncle Simon was unaware that Lord Stanton had made a head-jerking motion towards the door only seconds before. His decision made, Uncle Simon turned his worried eyes to the old family friend and said, “Sebastian, knowing you are a most loyal subject of the throne, I really must beg you to take this silver box to the Home Office in London.” He placed the object onto the table separating the two men, his hand shaking slightly. “I am no longer the dashing blade I once was, and so I beseech you to keep the confidence passed on to me only an hour ago,” he finished.

Reaching out his hand, Lord Stanton’s long well tapered fingers closed around the box, dwarfing it in size when compared to his large hands. He examined it, then agreed they would sit down together later that afternoon to get all the facts straight before their leaving for London tomorrow. Uncle Simon looked relieved and smiled his thanks.

Lord Stanton was now in possession of a silver box, complete with secrets soon-to-be-disclosed. He wondered what Uncle Simon had gotten himself into but decided he would not draw conclusions before he understood the entire tale. He had noticed a stranger speaking to the elderly gentleman upon his arrival. Something about the man seemed familiar, but he wasn’t sure because his back was to him and Sir Harry had been impatient to knock on the door and gain entry to the house. He was sure the boy had a tendre for his goddaughter.

Placing the box into his pocket just as Sir Harry returned, he smiled reassuringly at the elderly man. The ladies descended the stairs to join them by the doorway. “Shall we away?” Lady Winter asked. Sir Harry quickly offered his arm to Laura and Lord Stanton offered the same courtesy to Lady Winter. They bade the sweet old gentleman good-bye and left the house.

Alfred closed the door behind them then turning asked if Uncle Simon would be requiring his services. “Oh no but thank you Alfred. I shall rest a bit. You run along now,” he said. Dismissed, Albert returned to the servants quarters to partake of his luncheon with the rest of the staff.

Uncle Simon settled down in the large comfortable chair already closing his eyes. He believed he had done the right thing, and exhaling a sigh took a leisurely nap.

-5- Morning Tea and Guests

Lady Laura let out a glad cry as she ran forward to greet the tall, broad shouldered gentleman, who upon seeing her stood and held out his arms. She literally flew into them and cried “Godfather, how good to see you.” She let out a whoop as he lifted her up and smiled as he replied, “Indeed it is and my how you have grown.” He planted a kiss on the top of her shining hair. He noticed she smelled faintly of lavender and became nostalgic for the little girl he had left behind when he had traveled to the Caribbean. Although they had exchanged a few letters during her school years it felt good to be home.

Setting her down, Lord Stanton released her and together they sat down on the sofa by the table, which was laid with morning tea and delicious muffins that Chef had sent down for their enjoyment. Her eyes shining, Laura turned expectantly toward Lady Winter and noticed a wistful look upon her face. “Aunt, isn’t it perfect that Lord Stanton is finally come home,” she demanded. Before looking over Laura’s head to where the man in question sat, she schooled her features. 

Lady Winter’s eyes met those of Lord Stanton’s and agreed “Yes, Laura it is. Here have some muffins. Chef makes them taste so good.” She handed the plate to Laura, and turning to Sir Harry she drew him into the conversation by telling Laura their guests had come to take them for a drive. Her niece quickly agreed to the plan adding, “I shall need to have Sarah put my hair up and then give her some instructions about packing before we leave.”

So for the next twenty minutes they talked and laughed at different stories they had to tell. Most of the time Sir Harry and Lady Winter sat by, while Laura and Lord Stanton talked nonstop. This gave her aunt time to inspect Lord Stanton unguardedly, to drink in his handsome countenance. She watched his mouth move in conversation, his lips curve into a smile and his otherwise reserved features light up with undisguised joy. Yes indeed, she too was glad he was home.

Uncle Simon holding onto Alfred’s arm entered the room and took a seat to join the party, the little silver box tucked securely in his coat pocket.

-4- Laura Becomes Suspicious

Laura whirled around to see Sarah approaching along the path, and if she was wondering why her mistress was lurking behind the tree she never let her expression convey this as she said, “Miss, Lady Winter would like you to join her and her guests in the drawing room.”

Laura considered not going immediately but changed her mind. “Sarah,” she asked, “Please let Uncle Simon know I will be joining her ladyship but will speak with him a bit later.” Thoughtfully she added “See if you can find out who that gentleman is as I do not recall seeing him before.” Laura walked back into the house and thought that she could find out who he was without showing any open interest on her part. Much to her chagrin she glanced back in time to see the man bowing to her uncle and striding off in the opposite direction from the garden. She turned the door handle and went inside.

Now why would he leave that way she mused. Along the shadowed hallway her thoughts continued in this manner. So deep in thought was she that she almost bumped into Alfred as he carried a brass bound trunk toward the staircase. “Oh, I do beg your pardon Alfred,” she exclaimed. Alfred had already set the trunk down and was standing back so as to allow her to pass. “All is well miss.” he nodded and then proceeded to lift the trunk once more and go upstairs.

Just as she was ready to enter the drawing room she began to wonder why her aunt wanted her to join her. She looked at the grandfather clock to see it was only ten o’clock. Very early for visitors. She pushed open the doors and smiled when she saw who was there.

-3- Lady Winter Laughs

Lady Winter finished her breakfast and sipped her steaming cup of coffee, made from Jamaican beans that Chef Armand had personally roasted only that morning. She lifted a letter, her hand poised in midair, as sounds of heavy footfalls approached. Laying the unopened letter back down on the silver salver, she looked up to see who might be arriving. “Sir Harry Perkins and Lord Stanton my lady,” Bentley, the butler announced and bowed as they entered.

They quickly crossed to the table as she stood up to greet her guests. “Lady Winter,” they both murmured as they each, in turn, raised her fingers to their lips. “We didn’t mean to disturb you coming by this early,” stated Lord Stanton looking a bit uncomfortable at obviously interrupting Lady Winter’s breakfast.

She hurriedly assured them that she was about to get up to walk outside to the garden. “It might be better if we sit down in the drawing room if you wouldn’t mind transferring there?” she asked. They agreed and she led the way down the hall to the front of the house. Once there she turned and asked “To what do I owe this visit?”

Sir Harry piped up eagerly, “We wanted to take you and Lady Laura for a drive as Lord Stanton has just purchased a new carriage and a set of perfectly matched grays.” His excitement was amusing to behold. He brushed back his blond hair from sheer nervousness. His entreating look reminded her of a puppy’s.

Lady Winter hid her smile and turned toward the very tall, dark haired, gorgeous man standing right next to her. She had to bend her neck back to look into his eyes. What she saw there made her tingle from the top of her head to her toes. My, she thought he is still so handsome, even after these ten years of not seeing him. Was it possible he was even more handsome, she wondered.

Lord Stanton had recently returned from Jamaica where he owned land planted in sugar cane, which was harvested slave free. He was as rich as Croesus and could easily afford to pay his employees handsomely. Something in his expression told her he knew what she was thinking and she hurriedly looked back at Sir Harry, smiling widely and said. “You might not know it but we will be busy packing to be ready to journey to London tomorrow. We will be there for the season and must prepare for our departure.”

But upon seeing Lord Harry’s happy expression fall she said “We might be able to go for a short ride as long as we are back by two o’clock.” His face immediately looked hopeful again.

Lady Winter moved toward the bell-pull and reaching out gave it a light tug. Within thirty seconds, Mary bobbed a curtsy and Lady Winter asked her to bring Lady Laura to her at once. The maid left in search of her mistress. Lady Winter laughed and her guests looked at her with a little surprise. Inwardly she was feeling alive and very well, indeed. Recovering her dignified poise at once she bade them “Pray be seated.”

Meanwhile, Lady Laura was looking with curiosity at the handsome stranger who was in deep conversation with Uncle Simon. Something about their hushed undertones made her stay hidden behind the large live oak tree. Only the hem of her dress was visible. Even Alice was quietly watching. Suddenly she felt she was being observed and Laura turned away, only to miss the stranger handing a small silver box to her uncle.

And as cats often do Alice soon lost interest, jumped down and sashayed towards the kitchen. Chef Armand always had a treat ready for her, no matter what time she appeared. Nose in the air she walked languidly, her attention fixed on the smell of food.

- 2- Uncle Norman, Aunt Minerva and Alice

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Lady Laura descended the main staircase holding onto the deep oak handrail as she went. The wood was polished to a high gloss and felt lovely under her hand as she followed the graceful curve of the slight downward spiral. When she reached the bottom of the steps she proceeded along the foyer and down the hallway, before turning into the breakfast salon which was situated at the back of the house. She paused before entering the room as something seemed amiss.

Her eyes searched the room from where there wafted the delicious smells of the breakfast foods for which Chef Armand was famous. She inhaled the aromas and stepped into the room.

Alfred, the footman was bending over and seemed to be assisting a small, rotund man with gray hair to arise from the chair he had been occupying.

“Uncle Simon you have arrived,” said Lady Laura smiling widely as she ran toward him.

“Yes, I am finally arrived this morning and have enjoyed my breakfast. But I don’t find it easy to get up after sitting for a time.” He grunted as Alfred helped him to stand. “You look lovely my dearest. Come and give an old man a hug,” he laughed gruffly.

Laura sprang into his arms and embraced him warmly. “Oh Uncle, it is so grand to see you again. Since I have returned from school and have enjoyed a few weeks here in Brighton, I was wondering when you would get here.” She stepped back her face shining with delight.

He took in her beauty, her sincere happiness and returned the smile, a twinkle reaching his merry blue eyes. “Your parents would be so pleased by you Laura, indeed they would. You have quite grown into a pretty young thing,” he replied. Her smile deepened.

“I was about to breakfast but I will hurry, and after you have walked about the garden I will come outside to join you,” she said.

“No need to hurry my dear we have all the time in the world,” he stated moving forward, his wrinkled hand upon the strong arm of Alfred. “Take your time Laura, Alfred will bring me up to date and then you and I will have ourselves some tea in the garden.” He waved as Alfred helped him down the few steps beyond the door which led to the outside.

Laura sat down and helped herself to the plate of food just sent down from the kitchen. It was filled with golden scrambled eggs, lightly sprinkled with cheddar cheese. Thick slices of deep red tomatoes and crisply fried bacon were placed alongside. She reached for the bread, and tore off a portion, spread strawberry jam and before she knew it she had finished and was drinking the last of her tea, when she heard a rustling of skirts nearing the doorway. She glanced up in time to see a most elegantly clad woman enter the room, flourishing her beauty without a thought.

“Good morning dearest, did you sleep well?” she asked. Taking her seat she placed the linen napkin on her lap covering the blue of her damask morning dress. She brushed tendrils of deep auburn hair from her eyes and inspected the plate of food being set down before her by one of the serving maids. “Thank you Mary,” she said, as the maid bobbed a curtsy. She looked at Laura with a smile.

“Good Morning Aunt Minerva. Yes. Surprisingly, I slept well and the ocean breeze is wonderfully invigorating, is it not?” she asked. Her aunt agreed and Laura continued “Uncle Simon is walking about the garden and I am so glad he has arrived. It is all coming true. We leave for London tomorrow.”

“Yes Laura, your time has finally come to enter London society, and we will have but two months to prepare for your first ball,” she stated. Taking a mouthful of food and raising her eyebrows she continued, “Chef has certainly added something different to the eggs. The flavor is so delicate.” She rolled her eyes heavenward.

“Chef has not revealed any of his secrets to me but he did promise to show me how to prepare a menu. In fact he said it is imperative I learn these important matters,” Laura revealed. Her aunt seemed a bit surprised that the chef would take her niece under his wing. Being French he was usually throwing people out of his kitchen, his domain as he put it. Laura must has won him over to have him volunteer his culinary supervision.

Lady Laura excused herself from the table and walked into the drawing room calling to Alice, her young cat. Alice had come to her while she was at Miss Kent’s School for Young Ladies, in Bath. Just a tiny ball of fluff was the first image Laura had of the tiny kitten. She was starving, about five weeks old and mewling pathetically. Being fond of animals, Laura snatched her up and nursed her to health. The little cat loved her mistress and would follow her about devotedly.

She was found in the drawing room napping and upon seeing Laura she yawned, stretched and stood up. As soon as Laura was about a foot away, Alice gracefully leaped up and into a laughing Laura’s arms. “Oh my pet,” she said giving Alice a hug and a quick kiss. “You are the most beautiful kitty in the world and you are mine. Come with me to the garden and I shall introduce you to your Great Uncle Simon. Alice nuzzled Laura under her chin, settling comfortably within the arms which so lovingly held her.

As soon as Lady Laura and Alice emerged onto the garden path she froze when she spotted the tall handsome man sitting next to Uncle Simon.

- 1 – Getting Ready To Travel North

Sarah Derby had been personal maid to Lady Laura for five weeks now. She jumped as she heard the tinkling of the bell, summoning her to climb the stairs, to the upper floors where the bedrooms were housed. Upon reaching the bedroom door, she tapped lightly and waited until she heard Lady Laura command her to enter. She bobbed a curtsy then stood quietly to hear what her young mistress would say.

“Good morning Sarah, did you sleep well?” she inquired pleasantly. Sarah replied she had, and was smiling inside because she had such a lovely person to work for. Nothing was boring when young miss was about, and as they were to travel to London on the morrow, she knew she would be very busy today. “What would you have me do first milady?” She asked.

“Oh, please help me get dressed, then I shall go downstairs for a light breakfast.” She turned to Sarah and asked, “Have you eaten yet?” “Oh yes miss, a few hours ago.” Sarah replied. “Well that is good then.” Lady Laura said. “Perhaps you will begin by ordering up the trunks, and make sure that one of the footmen carry them upstairs for you. By the time I have eaten, we can decide what is best to pack.”

Sarah assisted her to dress, and helped button all of the tiny buttons on the back of the dress. Her mistress had the purest and creamiest skin, with a light blush of color upon her cheeks. Her eyes were very large, colored a sweet sherry brown, and she was fortunate to have long dark lashes to enhance them. Now dressed in a light caramel shaded gown, she turned as Sarah handed her a pale golden shawl, which had no fringe.

Sarah dressed Lady Laura’s hair by tying a coppery colored satin ribbon around her long, wavy amber hair, to keep it away from her face. “You won’t be able to wear your hair down whilst you’re in London, miss.” Sarah reminded her. “Oh yes, I shall wear my hair up, and turn into a grand lady.” Lady Laura smiled, showing perfect white teeth and then, whirling in a circle, she hugged Sarah and continued “I am so happy finally to be going to London!”

A surprised Sarah watched as her young miss hurried away downstairs. She smiled again for she, too, would be traveling to the great city. This would be an adventure for them both.

Prologue … Brighton 1814

Lady Laura stretched her arms above her head and extended the morning yawn down to the tips of her toes. She slowly opened her eyes and looked at the small clock on the mantle above the now unlit fireplace. At night the fire was always lit to keep out the chill, to keep her comfortable. Now, she remembered her plans for the day and commenced to get out of the bed. She washed her hands and face, brushed her teeth and rang the bell-pull for her maid.