Page 16 of Needs Must
‘Which is more than could be said for yourself, I dare say.’
‘Well, how was I supposed to know that I was trespassing?’ Donna asked indignantly. The earl was riding recklessly and if Bertram wasn’t so steady then things could have ended in disaster.’
‘I expect the earl thinks that he’s entitled to ride as fast as he likes on his own land,’ Miriam pointed out in what was for her a moderate tone. She did not hold men in general in high esteem, and any who attempted to become overfamiliar with Donna were guaranteed to feel the sharp side of her tongue.
‘Undoubtedly, but if he knows that track is used by villagers then he should be more considerate.’
Miriam tutted and shook her head. ‘What did you agree with Mr Dawkins?’ she asked.
‘Idid not agree anything,’ Donna replied, sighing. ‘The earl took matters into his own hands and discussed the necessary repairs with Dawkins without once having the courtesy of referring to me.’ It was Donna’s turn to tut disapprovingly.
‘Well, I dare say that was an irritation, but put aside your prejudice and comfort yourself with the thought that his lordship probably negotiated a better price and quicker service than you yourself would have managed.’
Donna tapped her fingers on the arm of her chair restlessly. ‘Undoubtedly,’ she conceded, ‘but I would very much like to know why he went to the trouble.’
‘Count your blessings, child, and accept that good fortune has found its way to your door for a change.’
Donna offered a wry smile. ‘I cannot deny it, since Mr Dawkins intends to start work tomorrow. I cannot persuade myself that he just happened to have finished with the earl’s barn on the day that I required his services, but I shall not dispute the point.’
‘Thank the Lord for small mercies!’ Miriam cried, aware of Donna’s untrusting nature and her inclination to question even the smallest thing.
‘Anyway, Miriam, I think we should visit the haberdashery in the village this afternoon and purchase material for curtains and cushions. I took the necessary measurements. We can make them up while we wait for Mr Dawkins to do what has to be done. It will be as good a way as any to pass the time.’
Chapter Five
Cal spent the following day dwelling upon the forthcoming visit from Bagshott, wondering what such a private man could possibly want from him. And why he would imagine that Cal would be willing to help him, given the tension and inconvenience that closing his track had caused to Cal’s estate.
‘Bagshott should be here soon,’ Jules said, stating the obvious as he entered the room.
‘Anything to tell me about the mysterious Mrs Harte?’
‘Patience, my friend, patience.’ Jules offered a wicked little grin. ‘Anyone would think you had a personal interest in the lady.’
Cal sighed. ‘Stop being such an arse.’
‘All I can tell you as things stand is that she’s created quite a stir at the Ship,but then we already knew that much thanks to your loquacious guests last night.’
Cal grunted. ‘Celia has now decided against calling upon her, following the spiteful remarks that the other ladies made last night. I dare say Mrs Harte would appreciate her lucky escape, if she knew of it.’
‘As you can imagine, all sorts of unlikely rumours are circulating the taproom regarding her circumstances. Word is also out that she’s taken Denmead Cottage, which has given the gossips limitless fuel for speculation.’ Jules strolled towards the windows.
‘Hello, your guest is here by the looks of things.’
‘I didn’t hear a carriage.’
‘That’s because he didn’t come in one. Seems he walked through the woods that adjoin the estates. That’s the direction he’s coming from, anyway. And he’s alone.’
Cal shrugged. ‘That would have been quite a trek.’
‘Well, if he keeps a carriage, or even any horses, I’ve not seen ’em, so maybe he had no choice.’ Jules walked away from the window. ‘His lack of transportation would explain why he expectedyouto call uponhim.’
‘If he never leaves his estate, I suppose he doesn’t have any need for saddle horses or carriages.’
‘He’s a bit young to be a recluse. I only caught a glimpse of him just now, but he clearly doesn’t care about the impression he makes. I’d say the coat he’s wearing is a good decade or more out of date.’ Jules returned to the window and peered more closely as their neighbour made his way towards the Arndale Hall’s entrance portico. ‘Yep, I remember my father sporting lapels that wide two decades ago.’
‘You think he’s short of blunt?’ Cal asked.
‘Doubt it. He does maintain his estate. But if he never leaves it or entertains, then he has no more need for an up-to-date wardrobe than he does for horses.’ Jules turned away from the view. ‘If I had to guess then I’d say that he’s careful with his money. But then, that could be said of a lot of people I’m acquainted with, given how tough the current economic climate is.’
