Page 77 of Shining Knight
“As you see,” he said, holding his hand out to shake the vicar’s hand.
“And are you shepherding the flock here, now?”
“Guilty as charged,” Edmund agreed. “I have been in London for weeks and wished to ensure the welfare of some people in particular. Speaking of such matters, how is your father? I had intended to travel to the Abbey this afternoon.”
“He is ailing. I fear he will not survive long.”
“I am grieved to hear it. I know he will be comforted by your presence.”
Graham swallowed hard. Somehow it was more real to hear his friend say it aloud.
“Are you shopping?”
“I could not endure to be in the house any longer. It is quite dreary,” he admitted.
“You are welcome at The Grange, you know, at any time you wish.”
Graham laughed. “I think not.”
Edmund looked at him strangely.
“Had you not heard that your dear sister asked me not to pursue my suit until she better understands her feelings?”
“What a ridiculous notion!” Edmund exclaimed.
“I am inclined to agree with you, but I am acceding to her wishes for now, although I confess I was shopping for her. There is more than one way to woo a lady.”
Edmund smiled. “That explains why I have not seen you of late. I had assumed it was to do with your father’s decline. She must realize that you are to marry.”
“I cannot say what she realizes. Be that as it may, I am allowing her to come to that conclusion on her own.”
“Wise man. How may I assist you in this endeavor?”
“I wish I had a good answer. I have been unable to convince her by treating her as a friend, so I thought to court her like any other lady. Sweets, flowers, jewelry; even love poems if I must!”
“No.” Edmund shook his head. “She would believe that to be flummery.”
“Perhaps, but treating her as though nothing were extraordinary about our relationship will not change her mind.”
“Perhaps you are right,” Edmund answered thoughtfully. “I will think on it and perhaps ask Isabella for advice.”
“I am much obliged.”
“I have not seen a great deal of Eugenia myself, come to think of it. I see her flying past on Cleo every morning and I know she has been spending a good deal of time at the Dower House.”
Graham smiled. The Dower House bordered his own property and he had been tempted time and again to visit the dowager.
“I see you have been tempted to call also.” Edmund read his mind. “The restriction only applies to Eugenia, and you must know we all consider you to be one of the family.”
Graham inclined his head in appreciation.
“In fact, why do you not come to dine with us this evening? It will be the perfect opportunity to see if Isabella has any ideas.”
“As long as my mother and sister have not arrived. I will send word when I return, if that is the case.”
“Actually, I will join you on your way back now, unless you have other business to attend to in the village?”
“No, I do believe I have accomplished all I can here. I might need to make a trip into Bideford for more fripperies. It is too bad there is not a Gunter’s nearby.” Although he had spoken in jest, that gave him an idea.
