Page 40 of The Trouble With Her Duke
Mandy nodded.
“That’s high praise, Mandy,” Lydia said, smiling and accepting the compliment. “I believe we three will get along famously.”
“How come you’re not afeared of a frog?” Michael asked.
“My brothers used frogs and toads to torment me to keep me from tagging along. I became acquainted with frogs very early. I learned a lot from my brothers.”
“There’s nothing you’re afeared of?” Mandy asked.
“I’m sure there is. But when I’m scared, I try not to panic. These animals are scared, too. When you pull them out of their environment, that terrifies them. I think of it that way,” Lydia said gently.
“I hadn’t thought of that,” Mandy said. “We don’t mean to hurt the frogs. Do you think you could help me draw a frog one day?”
“I’d be happy to do that. Tell you what. Would you like to go with me to return the bullfrog before we end today’s lessons?”
“We’d like that, Miss Hammond,” Mandy admitted—this time with a smile. “Come on, Rosie. It’s time to go out.”
Chapter 14
After dinner, Damon noticed Miss Hammond carrying a box and leading the children and their puppy from the house. It appeared they were headed towards the pond, which ran alongside the drive leading to the manor house. If he wasn’t mistaken, the pond was the source of the frogs. What was she doing with a box?
A moment later, Jenkins entered. “Your Grace, I’ve got a missive for you from the Dowager Duchess of Glanville. Her messenger suggested you read it immediately. I requested he remain in case you wish to send a return message.”
Damon broke the seal and read.
Your Grace—Damon,
Lady Featherly and I spoke with the modiste, as promised. Miss Hammond will undoubtedly select pale colors. I’ve instructed the modiste to change each color she selects to its bolder counterpart. A pale blue becomes sapphire—that sort of thing. I’ve also added a riding habit—my treat. The dresses will be delivered soon.
I look forward to visiting the twins soon.
Fondest Regards,
Aunt Rosalind
“I don’t think I need to send a return message unless it is thank you.” Damon nodded toward the window. “Maybe you can help me understand why the governess, the children, and the puppy are at the pond? I saw her carrying a box. Surely she’s not bringing a frog into the house.”
Jenkins cleared his throat. “My understanding is she is returning a bullfrog to its natural habitat.”
Damon grinned. “The children?”
Jenkins nodded. “They were hoping to spring it on her, but she picked it up and held it.”
While his admiration grew for the governess, Damon shuddered at the thought of holding a slimy bullfrog. His governess had ruined that for him.
“According to my wife, she plans to visit the archery field with the children later this week. She has requested smaller bows.”
Damon’s head jerked up. “She shoots a bow and arrow, too?”
Jenkins chuckled. When my wife asked her, her response was, “It was the one thing my brothers couldn’t do better.”
Damon hooted. “I plan to join them when she teaches them archery. Please have my bow readied and the targets spruced.”
The butler grinned, gave a quick bow, and left.
The woman has grit. I like that about her. And he liked the violet eyes—a lot.
The next morning
