Page 118 of Ironvine

Georgina

The Duchess of Oakleyhad arrived at Ironvine.

Georgina rushed outside with the servants to greet her as the Oakley coach came to a stop at the foot of the grand staircase. Her footman opened the door, and another held out his gloved hand to assist his mistress.

She emerged from the coach, a lovely small burgundy tricorn hat set at an angle on her head, a black cape over a burgundy and gold dress.

“Welcome to Ironvine, Your Grace.” Georgina bowed.

“What a beautiful park you have, Countess.”

“I agree. I’m pleased you like it.

“I would have ridden here on my horse, but I’ve brought you and the Earl a gift.”

“A gift? How very kind.”

Her liveried footman appeared just behind her holding a large wooden box.

“Lord Ryvves very much enjoyed the Duke’s special Port last evening, and so my husband has sent a number of bottles for him to enjoy.”

“His Grace is most generous. I thank you. The Port was remarkable.”

“Is the Earl here today?”

“He is, yes. At present, he is working with his sword trainer.”

“Does he practice with Mr. Swindon? He works with the Duke when we are here.”

“Yes, I believe he does.”

They entered the house, the Duchess’s cloak was taken, and Georgina led her to her morning room. “Tea has been brought for us.”

The Duchess took in the large room. “Beautifully appointed. Is it all yours, perhaps?”

“It is.”

“Ah. It’s always good for a woman to have her own rooms, do you not agree?”

“I do agree. For so long I did not, which is why now I feel most blessed.”

“Blessed?”

“I suppose I always thought that when one gets married you have so many responsibilities and obligations that any personal freedoms would be greatly curtailed, especially by one’s husband.”

“Men are tricky beasts.”

“Thus, I feel blessed that my husband does not wish to curtail me.”

She let out a low laugh, a laugh that hinted at something other than their direct topic. “You are indeed most fortunate, Countess.”

“Do call me Georgina, Your Grace.”

“I shall.” She smiled.

They drank their tea and ate small iced cakes as they talked about the dinner party. No mention was made of Amanda and Matthew. Had she not heard? Had her husband not told her what he’d witnessed? Georgina managed to curve their discussion to which books they were reading.

The Duchess had read “The Monk” and had very much enjoyed it. “You must finish it, Georgina and then we can discuss it at length.” She placed her empty cup on the table. “Do show me your sketches. I am most eager to see.”

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