“I’d like that,” Susanna said. “I do hope you’ll come back for another visit soon.”
“I promise I will.”
By the end of the day, everyone was exhausted and chose to take dinner trays in their rooms. Violet was very pleased with how the party had gone and especially with meeting a new friend. She hoped that some day in the not-too-distant future, she could invite Susanna to London for a visit.
Chapter 16
LADY TISBURY WAS PLEASED TOsee so many ladies of thetonattending her afternoon party in support of the Foundling home she championed. She was looking for Lady Putnam and her daughter, Agnes, and soon spotted them admiring her white roses near the back of the garden and headed their way.
“Lady Putnam, I’m pleased to see you and your daughter could attend today.”
Both Lady Putnam and Agnes turned and curtseyed. “Lady Tisbury, it was a wonderful surprise to receive your invitation. Both Sir Putnam and I fully support your endeavor. There are so many orphan children roaming the streets of London that need our help,” Mrs. Putnam said.
“They do indeed.”
The trio walked toward a group of ladies. “Lady Hunt, Lady Berkley, may I introduce Lady Putnam and Miss Putnam?”
Lady Hunt, a dear friend of Lady Tisbury, smiled. “A pleasure to meet you both.”
Both Lady Putnam and her daughter curtseyed. “Lady Hunt, Lady Berkley, it’s our pleasure,” Lady Putnam said.
“Miss Putnam, how are you enjoying the Season?” Lady Hunt asked.
“It’s a little overwhelming,” Miss Putnam said.
While her friend spoke with Miss Putnam, Lady Tisbury said, “Might I have a private word with you, Lady Putnam?”
“Of course, Lady Tisbury.”
The two older women walked along the path showcasing her prize roses.
“Your garden is spectacular, Lady Tisbury.”
“I will relay your kind comments to my gardener. He’ll be most pleased to hear them.” Mary led her down another path and looked around to see if they were alone before she spoke again. “There’s another reason I wished to speak privately with you, Lady Putnam.”
“Oh? I cannot imagine what that could be.”
“It’s a rather delicate matter. I understand Lord Carlisle has shown an interest in courting your daughter.”
Lady Putnam smiled. “He has indeed, and Sir Putnam is very much in favor of the match.”
“I see.”
Lady Putnam frowned. “Is there a problem, Lady Tisbury?”
“I’m afraid there is. I have it on the best of authority that Carlisle isn’t the gentleman he professes to be.”
“Whatever do you mean? He’s shown Miss Putnam the utmost respect every time he’s been in her company.”
“I imagine he has, but you must understand that he’s courting Miss Putnam merely for her generous dowry. He’s nearly bankrupt and needs an influx of cash desperately. I don’t believe he actually cares for your daughter.”
“Lady Tisbury, I don’t wish to be rude, but isn’t that the way of many titled men in similar circumstances? They marry for the money; certainly not for love.”
“It is indeed. However, Carlisle hasn’t always proven himself to be honorable.”
“Whatever do you mean?”
“I cannot say any more on the subject, but for the sake of your daughter’s future happiness, you must advise your husband not to encourage his suit.”
