Page 16 of The Duke Who Loved a Widow
He looked down, smiling at the spaniel, trotting neatly beside the horse. Mickle had been well trained and walked beside him, sitting and waiting if he stopped to talk with anyone.
No sooner had he thought this than the spaniel took off, racing towards a gentleman walking towards them, whistling tunefully.
Robert couldn’t avoid acknowledging this man as Mickle sat next to him while he patted her on the head.
“Good morning. I do apologize sir. It’s the first time I’ve taken her out for a walk,” said Robert.
“No need to apologize, sir. I know this dog well. I often met her when she was out and about with Michael Morley. I’m glad to see her again.”
Robert nodded and introduced himself.
The man bowed. “I’m Sir Joseph Thraxton,” he said. “From Horton Hall.”
“Just the man,” said Robert. “Can I buy you a tankard of ale?”
“I’ve time for that,” replied Sir Joseph. “I believe you are dining with us tomorrow evening.”
After leaving his horse at the stables around the back of the tavern, Robert made his way into the tap room and joined SirJoseph at a table near a blazing log fire. The innkeeper brought them pints of good bitter ale, and they quickly moved from small talk to business. Sir Joseph had a shrewd head for business and was interested in the vineyard. After talking about their interests for half an hour, Robert realized he had found a shipping agent to move his wine.
When Robert explained their difficulties in finding a replacement for Mr Morley, he had an immediate suggestion.
“Jason Brown would be perfect for you at Montbury. He used to work at the castle, and if memory serves me correctly, he is Michael Morley’s nephew. He’s been with me for the last two years, and there’s no position for him to move up to. I’ll lose him soon anyway, and I know he wants to stay in this area.”
For a moment, the businessman in Robert couldn’t believe Sir Joseph’s generosity and ease of manner. He just seemed to want his employee to progress and be happy.
“Tell you what, Montbury. I’ll send him up to the castle to have a word. Would this afternoon suit? If you don’t find him suitable, then I’ll take him back.”
Could it be that simple? Robert readily agreed.
They walked out together, and Sir Joseph accompanied Robert to the stables. A young stable lad brought out a chestnutmare. Robert was impressed with his manner and the care he took of the animal.
“Thank you, Jim,” said Sir Joseph, clearly knowing the boy’s name.
Robert looked at the boy, seeing the threadbare clothes, knowing that there were very few horses to look after at this tavern, and he probably made most of his income from tips when he looked after horses. He had been fortunate never to worry about where the next meal was coming from.
The boy led out his own horse, Mercury, ready for him to mount.
“That’s a fine mare you have there, Sir Joseph. The horse clearly comes from a fine line of horses,” Robert commented.
“Indeed, you’ve a good eye there for horses, Montbury.”
The stable lad had obviously done a good job looking after the animals, and Robert could tell he had brushed down his horse.
“Can you ride?” he asked the boy.
“Yes, sir, and drive a cart. Pa taught me before he went off to join the duke against Boney. It’s how I earn my living.”
“Your father is with Wellington?”
“Yes, Your Grace, in the regiment under the Colonel, your sister’s husband.”
“If you’re looking for extra work, then go up to the stables at the castle. Tell Mr Grayson I sent you.”
“Thank you, Your Grace,” said the boy, grinning at Robert.
“Here’s a shilling for looking after Mercury for me,” Robert added, handing the coin to the boy.
“You’re a generous man, Montbury. Jim’s a good lad, too. He’ll do any job around your stables.”
