“The invitation was meant for one. We will leave it at that.” Her grandmother then turned to Lady Priscilla. “I hope you and your sisters can chaperone as I have other matters to attend to.”
“Of course,” she eagerly offered.
Oh, this evening was going to be delightful indeed. Not only would she be able to spend it with Mr. Copeland but the maiden sisters as well. Though, if given the option, she’d much rather be alone with Mr. Copeland.
* * *
Though he’d not been looking forwardto an evening of billiards or cards with the leaping lords, Caleb had resigned to his fate. Though, resignation slipped as the supper continued and those lords who were supposedly vying for Lady Lucinda’s hand practically ignored her. He’d caught the eye of his great-aunt Esther and she simply shook her head, as if to indicate this was not an unusual occurrence. Perhaps he’d been wrong since not one of them appeared to be leaping for her attention.
When he asked about the library, Caleb had meant to turn the conversation back to her, as a reminder to the gentlemen in the room not to ignore the reason they’d been invited. He’d not expected the invitation, nor been disappointed and as soon as the supper was concluded, he excused himself to join the ladies as the gentlemen remained behind to enjoy port.
Upon entering the library, Lady Lucinda rang for a maid then marched directly to the wall of filled shelves and removed a book, which she held until a maid entered the room.
“Yes, Lady Lucinda.” The young woman bobbed a curtsey.
“A tea cart, if you don’t mind.”
“Of course.”
“Would you also deliver this book to the dining room where the gentlemen have gathered.”
Caleb nearly burst out laughing when he read the title,A Vindication of the Rights of Women.
“Tell Lord H that this is my recommendation, and perhaps they should all read it.”
The maid’s eyes widened. “Me, Lady Lucinda?”
“Perhaps not you.” She frowned. “Ask Warren to deliver my message, and book.”
“Of course, Lady Lucinda.” She then hurried from the room, holding the book against her breast. It was only after the door closed that Caleb laughed.
Lady Lucinda tilted her head and stared at him. “The book is no laughing matter.”
“No, it is not. Though I wish to see their faces upon receipt of it.”
A smile pulled at her lips as she strolled to the settee. “Have you read it Mr. Copeland?” Lady Lucinda asked.
“Yes. It was deemed required reading for the men in our household by the women.”
“Your sisters?” she asked.
“Most definitely.”
Lady Lucinda chuckled as she and his aunts took their seats. Only then did Caleb settle into a chair.
“Tell me about your family, Mr. Copeland.”
“I’d rather you told me of yours. You have eight siblings?”
“I asked you first.”
Ah, so she was going to be a proper hostess, but he’d not let Lady Lucinda take the attention from herself for long as there was much he wished to learn about her. “I am the second son, with one older brother, four younger sisters and four younger brothers.”
“That’s rather generic.”
“What would you have me say?” he laughed.
“Who is your favorite?”
