“It bothered me that they hung an innocent man. We all knew it at the time.”
James sat forward. “Who do you mean by we?”
“Those of us who have worked for the noble houses in this area. His reputation was such that it was impossible for any of us to believe differently. Although tragic and irreparable, I am pleased to see that justice has returned.”
“Very good,” James said. “I must warn you, though. I have not been raised a gentleman. There is much for me to learn. I hope you’ll be patient with me.”
“Whatever you need, Lord Ashford, I shall do and be honored to serve.”
Mrs. Ellsworth offered a small nod behind Mr. Isherwood’s back. James followed it.
“I believe you’ll suit us well,” James said. “Welcome to Ashford.”
The man bowed again. “Thank you, my lord.”
He departed, and a few minutes later, the second candidate entered. He was a much younger man, dressed in a clean but unassuming coat. His hair was neatly combed, and his gloves were tucked respectfully under one arm.
“Mr. Digby,” Mrs. Ellsworth said. “He comes with a reference from the Marquess of Leland’s household.”
The young man stepped forward. “My lord.”
James studied him. He had expected someone stiffer. This man seemed quietly confident, but not ingratiating.
“I understand you’ve served as both footman and valet?”
“Yes, my lord. Most recently for Lord Leland’s eldest son. I was his valet until he married last year.”
“What do you consider the most important part of your role?” James asked.
Digby took a moment before answering. “To make your day run more smoothly than it otherwise would. To anticipate what you need, not just respond when asked.”
James nodded slowly. “And what if I don’t always know what I need?”
“Then we’ll learn it together, my lord.”
“I don’t know how to dance,” James said. “What would you tell me to do about that?”
“I know the perfect instructor for you, my lord,” Digby said. “If you hire me, I shall put it all together for you.”
“You’re hired, Mr. Digby,” he said.
“Thank you, my lord.”
Once Digby had gone, Mrs. Ellsworth returned to her chair. “I’m pleased, my lord. I hope you are as well.”
“He seems more than adequate. And he’s willing to work for a man like me, which won’t be easy.”
“Nonsense.”
“I’m not learned in the ways of Society,” James said. “Part of his work will be helping me to appear a gentleman, when really I am a working man.”
“But, my lord, you are a gentleman. It was stolen from you for a time but that has changed.”
James sat as well, the warmth of the fire easing into his shoulders. “What do you think people will see when I arrive in London? A man in a fine coat pretending to be something other than a soldier or tavern owner. Or a clever card player.”
Mrs. Ellsworth’s voice was gentle. “What they see or think of youis not your concern. You must see yourself as worthy. Whether they see you as a gentleman or a tavern owner matters little compared to how you see yourself.”
James didn’t respond right away. He stared into the flames, thinking through what she’d said. It was true. If he felt like an imposter, others’ impressions had no bearing on, well, anything. He would be miserable, regardless.
