Page 18 of The Odd Riddle of the Lost Duchess
“You are welcome anytime, Your Grace,” smiled Lady Alford, “Would you like to sit?”
Something fluttered deep inside Emmeline and she swallowed, attempting to converse nonchalantly, as she had done before. It was hard to do with Noah’s eyes on her.
“Actually, I would prefer if Lady Emmeline and you, Madam, would do me the pleasure of accompanying me in my phaeton?” the Duke requested seductively. “I do apologize for the interruption, but I am leaving London and I hope to use the little time I have left with someone who shares my interests.”
Of course, he had to have a phaeton! Why could not he have a normal carriage like everyone else?Emmeline’s expression was neutral, but her heart was dancing, “Your Grace, I am not–”
“But of course, we will!” Lady Alford replied, while anxiously fanning herself, “I will allow it but, heavens–I am terrified of speeding carriages. I shall swoon in a phaeton. Only if you will drive it slowly, Your Grace…?”
“Of course, My Lady,” the Duke declared. “Though I often drive it myself, this time I am glad to have brought my coachman.”
“You drive the phaeton yourself?” Lady Alford’s eyes widened. “Most precarious, Your Grace.”
The Duke grinned devilishly. “Of course, that is the primary reason for owning a phaeton.”
“Well then,” her aunt smiled, “We will accompany you, Your Grace.”
The other gentlemen were obviously displeased by the usurper, as each of them had one plan or another to whisk Emmeline away from the townhouse. They had not gotten around to asking the permission, and now, based on the Duke of Newberry’s appearance, they were doomed never to have it.
Emmeline graciously said her farewells, and after seeing the gentlemen out, Emmeline beseeched Noah to wait until she and her aunt changed into the proper apparel.
The Duke assented and after a quick change of clothing, both Emmeline and Lady Alford were seated in the open carriage. Emmeline would have preferred to ride alone with the Duke, but unfortunately, it was proper that she had a chaperone. Emmeline was also feeling guilty at the demands this placed on her fearful aunt.
“Are you all right?” she asked her aunt, who was anxiously fanning herself, “We could turn back if it is difficult for you.”
“Of course, I am well, dear. Do not pay me any heed,” Lady Alford told her. “It is time I overcame this particular fear I have developed.”
* * *
The Duke had ordered his coachman to drive at a slow pace through Hyde Park, the location to observe and be seen by theton. It was evident he wanted to make his acquaintance with Lady Emmeline and her aunt public, despite the unavoidable gossip. Emmeline and her aunt shared a closeness of spirit, which is why she did not have to be excessively reserved around the Duke.
“Lady Emmeline, dear, you keep asking His Grace questions about his travels,” protested Lady Alford. “Your Grace, I must say that my Lady Emmeline does not always talk this way.”
The Duke seemed amused. “My Lady, I do not mind Lady Emmeline making all these queries. In fact, I find her inquires refreshing and engaging. They are much more substantial than those of many other ladies.”
Lady Alford beamed at him.
On the way through the park, they exchanged pleasantries with various acquaintances, some of whom were from the season’s balls and assemblies,who were also enjoying the fresh air
A part of Emmeline wanted to shrink away from their shrewd gazes, as she knew her name would be on everyone’s lips the next day. Hyde Park was the center stage for anyone who wanted to make a grand statement, and her riding in a phaeton with the Duke of Newberry certainly qualified as such.
“Fitzroy,” said an aggressive voice.
Emmeline and her companions looked to the left to find a tall rail-thin gentleman glaring at them angrily. She tried to place the fair hair and brown eyes, for his features were vaguely familiar, but couldn’t. The Duke’s face hardened, his eyes suddenly frigid as he surveyed the man before them.
“St. Maur,” the Duke said coldly.
“It is a wonder you dare to show your face this year,” St. Maur said furiously.
“I do not have time for your ramblings,” the Duke said tersely. “I am with company, as you can see.”
Then St. Maur grabbed hold of one set of reins from the coachman, who looked anxiously at his master.
“Return it to my coachman, or you will have to meet me at dawn,” the Duke said, his voice sharp as a whip.
A dawn appointment meant a duel. It was prohibited by law, although many gentlemen, when their honor was challenged, met in the wee hours of dawn settle their differences.
St. Maur spat on the ground, releasing the reins. “You are a coward, Newberry. A dawn appointment I do not expect you to keep.”
