Page 29 of A Foreign Crown
“This afternoon. A carriage will be called and you could leave within the hour.”
“But it is only a simple walk through the park, is it not?”
“Quite a distance for some. And perhaps, if I might make a suggestion, it would be advisable to make use of the carriage.”
“Will the weather take a turn, do you think?” Layton lifted his chin while Godfrey made some final adjustments to his cravat.
“The carriage might be advisable simply for matters of appearance and presentation.”
Layton considered his words and cursed his own inexperience in matters of diplomacy. “So it would aid my position to accept their kindness?”
“It would. And we’ll take greater care for your dress at balls or dinners or grand functions where the nobility or royals will be present.”
Layton nodded. He supposed it was the same in his royal court. People were trying to impress and rise in position and power all the time. He’d just never cared for it, nor desired or needed position or power—until he required the council to make decisions to help protect their shores. He could see how perhaps a better relationship with some of the councilmen would have helped him sooner.
He stepped out the front doors as one of the royal carriages pulled up. The red livery of the footmen was impressive to him, as was the plush interior of the conveyance. They traveled down the wide cobblestone royal courtyard, Layton enjoying the clip of the horses’ hooves. In a ridiculously short amount of time, he stepped out of the carriage and walked toward the front doors of Buckingham House. He appreciated the simple architecture, the square lines, and the understated elegance. But he missed the stark beauty and contrast of the elaborate structures in his country.
The door opened, and men in livery exited, lining the rest of the walkway. A man took the hat and cane Godfrey had insisted Layton carry, and Layton was led directly into a sitting room. The walls were ornate, the artwork exquisite. He wanted to progress more slowly and with someone who could elaborate on the different pieces and their artists. The King’s presence was notably absent, but the Queen, Princess Mary, and Princess Elizabeth smiled as he entered.
Once he bowed, Queen Charlotte gestured to a chair between her two daughters. “Do be seated. We are so happy you’ve come, and so soon after our initial meeting.”
“Yes, Father has had the servants set up lawn bowls on the lawn, and a picnic for later.” Princess Mary’s energy was contagious.
He eased back in his chair. They were all pleasant women. “That sounds like just the thing. I would very much enjoy such a diversion.” He wondered if Lady Aribella would join them, or anyone else to even out the numbers for the games.
“And we could try our hand at shuttlecock, though I’m dreadfully new.” Princess Mary waved her hand in her face.
Queen Charlotte smiled. “Perhaps we should have some tea first.” She seemed much more relaxed and comfortable in her home.
“I’d enjoy that, yes.” He eyed the two sisters. Perhaps he should get to know them better.
“Princess Mary, tell me about your personal pursuits. What are you studying?”
Her eyes widened, and she looked from her mother to Layton and back. Then she placed her hands carefully in her lap. “We are working through a general history of England and France. Father wants me to understand the current war with Napoleon better. And, of course, I’ve been trained in all the poets, French, Italian...” She glanced up with questioning eyes.
Layton nodded. He hadn’t been seeking a list of qualifications. “So, from your studies, what are your thoughts on our current situation with Napoleon?”
She seemed to flounder for a moment.
He did not wish to make a test out of it. “I confess to be impressed of your awareness. Very few of the ladies in my country exert themselves in such a manner.”
Her complexion brightened at his praise, and then she said, “Of course, I’d rather we weren’t involved in any fighting, but if we must, Napoleon seems a wise choice. We can’t let him continue as he has been, can we?” Her eyes found her hands again.
“I heartily agree.” His heart pinged with guilt on behalf of his country for their previously neutral stance. “I admire England and all of your father’s and Parliament’s decisions in regards to Napoleon and thwarting his attempt at world domination.”
Princess Elizabeth fidgeted in her chair, her attention wandering.
“Shall we take to the grounds?” Layton gestured toward the great expanse of lawn.
Princess Elizabeth jumped to her feet. “Oh yes, please.”
The rest of them stood as well and made their way out of the front sitting room, and Layton remembered his earlier interest. “I would enjoy a tour sometime of your lovely home. The portraits, the artwork, and the sculptures interest me.”
“Perhaps next time.” Queen Charlotte waved her hand down the corridor. “We have made ourselves a lovely home here.”
“I can see that. Quite an oasis from the typical court setting and from St. James’s.”
She nodded but didn’t say more. When they arrived outside on the veranda, Queen Charlotte waved them forward. “I’ve asked a couple of the ladies in waiting to join you. I will be taking lemonade here, in the shade.”
