Georgie went along with Colin’s guise. After all, she had wanted to play charades.
“It’s our first footer—and he comes bearing gifts!”
Sarah’s lips parted, but before she could object, Georgie ushered him past her into the drawing room, where the others responded with laughter and good-natured groans, while his father shook his head and gave an exasperated sigh.
“Good evening. Your first footer has arrived,” Colin said, adjusting the coarsely woven sack.
His brother Jack muttered, “Are you supposed to be Father Christmas or a chimney sweep?”
“Come in, young sir,” Mamma said, going along with the farce. “You are very welcome.”
“Let us see your feet,” Effie insisted. “If he is flat-footed as well as fair, the entire next year will be ruined.”
“There is nothing wrong with my feet.” Colin sniffed as though affronted.
“Let’s take his word for it,” Mr. Henshall interceded on the young man’s behalf. “At least he does not come empty-handed.”
“True.” Colin reached into the bag. “First, a coin for our generous hostess.” With a bow, he handed a gold sovereign to Mamma. “May this family always know prosperity.”
“Hear, hear.”
“And for you, sir, a wee dram.” He handed a small flask to Mr. Henshall. “To celebrate a special occasion in the coming year. I hope.”
“Good choice, lad.”
“And sweets for the sweet.” He gave Effie a piece of shortbread—shortbread that looked suspiciously like the batch Sarah had made.
“And salt for you, Miss Sarah.” He handed her a small paper packet. “For flavor, since you are responsible for most of the flavorful foods we have enjoyed tonight.”
Sarah accepted it with a little smile. “I’d rather have a pound of sugar.”
He turned to Georgie and held up a lump of coal. “For warmth in the coming year.”
Georgie took it and tossed it onto the fire.
“Sadly, no cheese.” Colin sighed. “The cheesemonger was closed.”
“Then how about a toast?” Mr. Henshall offered him a glass.
“Good idea.” Colin accepted it. “To Sea View and all gathered here—” he raised his glass and, in an imitation of Mr. Henshall’s accent said—“aguidNew Year.”
They all raised their glasses, repeated the words, and then sipped their tea or punch or whatever drink was at hand.
Colin emptied his in a single swallow, then set down his glass. “Now there is something else I must do.”
“Escort last year’s troubles out the back door?” Effie asked.
“Trying to get rid of me already? No, I recall Mr. Henshall saying the first footer might claim a kiss from all the ladies in the house?”
“Careful,” Jack warned, a protective arm around his wife.
Colin hesitated, making a show of tugging on his collar as though suddenly too tight. “Then perhaps only the unmarried ladies. For my own safety.”
To ward off actual kissing, Sarah offered her hand. Colin raised it gallantly to his lips. Mamma followed suit.
Effie was next and presented her cheek for a kiss. He obliged her with a peck.
Then Effie looked back at her. “Your turn, Georgie.”
