“Well, I would have, of course, but we got diverted by wet clothes, wet hair, and the need for a nice warm fire, which I am happy to note we now have.” She toasted her bare toes.
“Miss Elinor.”
She knew that particular tone. “Oh, all right. I bumped into Sir Caleb in the flooded field. Literally. We walked right into each other.” She frowned. “All his fault, of course. If he’d been looking where he was going, he could have avoided our collision.”
“So could you…”
Elinor paused. “Fair point, I suppose. Anyway, I rescued the dog, who—rather ungraciously—decided to follow Sir Caleb home.” She nodded. “And that’s that.”
“I see.” Jane handed over clean stockings. “I trust you maintained the reputation of this household for politeness and affability to our neighbours?”
“Good heavens, Jane. You sound worse than Mama…”
“You flatter me, Miss Elinor. But perhaps being with your parents all these years has rubbed off on me. And don’t think of changing the subject.”
“I was as polite as could be,” lied Elinor. “I doubt our paths will cross again anyway.”
Several hours later, she was proved wrong.
“A note, Miss Elinor.”
“Thank you, Benson.” She smiled at the butler, accepted the paper from the tray and, curious, undid the seal.
Dear Lady Molliney,
Since our encounter this morning was all too brief, and more than a little damp, I would be honoured if you would allow me the opportunity to amend our unfortunate meeting over tea here at Tylwyth Teg Abbey. Perhapstomorrow afternoon at 4:00pm? At which time I shall not only apologise profusely for any inconvenience I may have caused, but perhaps propose a solution to our mutual flooding problem.
Respectfully yours,
C. Howell
PS. The dog is doing well and now has a name, as well as a basket by the fire, and a voracious appetite. Please join me, or he will eat all the biscuits.
Elinor looked at Benson. Then she burst out laughing.
“What a novel way to invite someone to tea,” she chuckled. “Apparently the man has a sense of humour as well as a rather stubborn streak and a quick temper.”
“Sir Caleb is well-regarded amongst our locals, Miss Elinor.”
“He is?”
“Indeed. He pays his bills on time, is said to be kind to his household, and rides well.”
“Ah. All signs of a good character.” She thought for a moment. “All right. I’ll go and have tea with the man. Yes, I confess I’ve always been curious about the Abbey, and I’ve never actually been inside. And that is an added inducement. But I’ll need a maid to come with me, won’t I…?”
“You certainly will, Miss Elinor. I’m sure we can spare young Priscilla for an afternoon.”
Thus, with plans in place, Elinor sat at her desk to pen her reply. After a few moments, she smiled and grabbed her quill.
Dear Sir Caleb ,
I am honoured by your request and will accept your invitation to tea with grateful thanks. My maid and I will be at the Abbey precisely at four.
With appreciation,
E. Molliney
PS. I am, of course, very happy to learn the dog is doing well. Not so happy to learn he’s eating your biscuits. Please ask him to leave a few for me.”
