“We do have one request, Lady Violet.”
“Yes?”
“Do you think it’s possible that anyone is free at Forester Hall who could pack and bring our belongings.” Bess held out her arms. “We sleep in our shifts, but the only clothing we have is what was worn to the Assembly.”
Violet should have realized this would be a concern before it was brought to her attention. “I’ll find someone to retrieve your belongings.”
“Thank you, Lady Violet,” Bess sighed with relief.
“Is there anything else that I can obtain for you while I’m out?”
“Goodness, no, Lady Violet,” the maid insisted. “We only prevail on this because the need is pressing.”
Of course, if bidding was to be done, it was usually a servant doing so for her. “Very well then, I’ll return shortly.” At least she now had a purpose, though it would not require much time or effort to arrange. However, the bookshop waited for when she was free once again.
After glancing about to determine who would be best to assist her, Violet turned and marched to the residence of Dr. Talbot. He had the loveliest of cottages that sat at the far end of the lane. The residence also served as his offices, at least on the main floor of the cottage, as it had for Dr. Pierce before he retired.
After she rapped on the door, Violet stood back and waited for the maid of all work to answer. However, instead of Mrs. Murry, who Violet had anticipated, she was greeted by a tall gentleman with the bluest of eyes and thick dark hair.
Though they’d never met, Violet knew exactly who he was—Emory Talbot, Viscount Ferrard—a rake with a preference for widows. She may not know him but knew his reputation well.
“May I help you?”
His rich voice warmed her in an unnatural manner. Then again, she’d walked quickly and even though it was December, the weather was quite pleasant and the pelisse overly warm.
“Is Dr. Talbot available?”
“He is not at home.”
“I suppose I should have anticipated such.” He did have patients that required his attention. It’s something she should have considered before calling.
“Are you ill?” He looked her up and down. “Or someone else?”
“No. We are all whole and healthy, for the moment,” Violet quickly answered. “I need items retrieved from Forester Hall for my servants.”
Lord Ferrard frowned. “My brother is much too busy to run errands for you.”
Violet blinked. She must learn to be clearer in her intentions. Too often she voiced only a portion of what she was thinking, which led to misunderstanding. It was a failing of hers which she must remain cognizant of in the future, and to fully explain her intentions. “I would never prevail upon him to assist me in such a manner,” Violet clarified. “I simply wished to inquire if the measles has spread and who I might trust to retrieve the clothing without fear of them taking the illness to my home.”
Lord Ferrard seemed to stare at her for a moment and she wasn’t certain why.
“There have been no further reports that I am aware,” he answered.
She supposed she could visit those in Laswell who she knew had a form of conveyance, though it was unlikely anyone was free in the middle of the day.
“Will that be all?” His left eyebrow rose, studying her.
He must find her bothersome, and shehadarrived without warning. “Yes,” she answered. “Thank you for your assistance.” With that she turned on her heel and marched away as she considered whom she might next seek assistance.
Emory closedthe door then leaned back against it. He’d not arrived at his brother’s home an hour ago and the first person to call was the very lady he’d hoped to avoid. He’d only answered because the maid of all work had gone to the market, and since it was the entry into Liam’s office where he treated patients, Emory hadn’t wanted whoever was on the other side of the door to be left cooling their heels in case there was a matter of urgency.
Though, one question had been answered—Lady Violet wasn’t shy. Not even timid, as she’d spoken clearly and looked him in the eye.
And her request was reasonable once she explained her thinking.
Further, he’d been rude, not that she seemed to notice, nor had Lady Violet taken offense at his curt tone.
It was not well done of him, and hecouldbe of assistance. It would be no hardship to take a message to Forester Hall, even though he’d left there not long ago, then wait for the trunks to be packed and return to Laswell. After all, there was little else to occupy his time.
