Daniel lowered his own book. “Shall we go for a walk, my dear? Some exercise might do us both good.”
“What is the use?”
“We’ll take Anne. She always seems to enjoy a stroll in Mr. Beebe’s carriage.”
“Sally and Thomas Cox have already taken her for a walk.”
“Well, have you thought any more about having the neighbors over for tea?”
She expelled a dry laugh and rolled her eyes.
“Kendall assures me Mrs. Dillard and her lot are the worst of the village snobs. Our neighbors would be far kinder.”
“Why would they accept an invitation from me? I am nobody.”
“That is not true. You are a fine woman—you are my wife.”
“You are nobody as well.”
“Granted.”
“And you leave for London tomorrow, again, leaving me caged up in this strange house.”
“I shall stay if you prefer.” He paused. “One of my patients is expecting twins and I fear it shall be a difficult birth, but I am sure Preston can manage it.”
“That man is not fit to deliver goats. No, go. Go and do what you must.”
Five days later, the front door of Richard Kendall’s offices opened and in strode Lizette Taylor, beautifully turned out in crimson gown and feathered hat.
“Bonjour, Dr. Kendall.”
“Mrs. Taylor. This is a pleasant surprise. What brings you by?”
“Are we not well enough acquainted that I might visit without an appointment?”
“But of course we are. Is there something I might help you with?”
She looked at him, opened her mouth, hesitated, and then said, “Yes, there is. It is silly, really, a trifling complaint, but if you would not mind ...?”
“Of course not.”
She glanced toward the old man sitting near the door. “Should we not step into your private office?”
He followed her gaze. “Of course.” Then more loudly, to the man, he said, “I shall be with you shortly, Mr. Dumfries.”
He showed her into his office. “Now, what seems to be the problem? Are you not feeling well?”
“Do I not look well?”
“You look very well indeed. As usual.”
“You are very gallant to say so.” She lowered her dress from one shoulder. “There. Do you see?”
“Ah ... what am I looking at?”
“I am usually more modest, but I suppose, being a physician, you are unmoved by the sight of the female form?”
He swallowed. “Usually, yes.”
