“A hundred years ago, she’d have been burned as a witch,” mused Paul.
“Less than that, here in the country. Fortunately, she’s gentle, kind and always ready to help. So instead of ostracizing her, the locals of Ridlington have taken her as their own, enjoying the fact that she’s a little different now and again.” Harriet leaned against her husband’s arm. “I wish there were more such kindnesses out there.”
They were silent for a while as they drove beneath lowering clouds, keeping the horse to a steady trot wherever conditions permitted.
“Did you think Kitty and Richard a little…what’s the word I’m looking for…”
“Town-bronzed?”
“Yes,” she turned to Paul. “Yes, that’s exactly it. Not jaded, by any means. But ready to leave the country and return to the excitement of the Metropolis. Not like the other Ridlingtons.”
“Although Hecate seemed ready to return with them.”
“Yes, she does. Oh well. We should not dwell on others’ business, I suppose.”
“You were happy to see Letitia,” Paul glanced down at his wife. “I hope you thanked her for me.”
“Hush.” His wife blushed.
“I see you did. And when will copies of this notorious book be available?”
“Never you mind,” said Harriet. “It’s for women, mostly.”
“Ohhh, really.” He nodded slowly. “So I wouldn’t learn anything new from it, then?”
She thought for a moment. “Darling, I doubt there’s anything in there you don’t already know.”
“But there were things in thereyoudidn’t already know?”
“Of course,” she answered. “Many things. Quite a few of which you have already approved.”
He grinned. “Yes. Yes, I have.”
“So I did thank Letitia, since you asked. For the book and the…er…”
Paul went on point. “Thewhat?”
“Um…”
“Harriet?”
“Well, she had this book…no, it was more of a manual…”
“Really? A manual on what?”
Harriet slid her hand over her husband’s thigh and warmed her cool fingers by tucking them into a very personal area. “I’ll show you when we get home.”
