“Why?”
“Because they would be enticed by the governess as much as I and would not give their full attention to their studies.” Then he pulled her close and kissed her. “However, I would be a most apt student if you wish to teach me anything.” He kissed her again, more deeply, and then there was no further discussion for he had begun to remove her clothing.
She had returned to being a governess, though it had not lasted long. She wanted to be home and had to tell Althea that they would need to advertise for someone new. However, she did continue to instruct the girls in their painting, as she had done before she ever became their governess.
Taking a fresh canvas, Charlotte placed it on the easel and stepped back.
It was white without a mark upon the pristine surface, but it was soon to be filled with color.
She glanced out the window. The leaves would soon change, and the sheep would need to be brought in from the far fields. Last autumn they had grazed by the lake, which she could see from here.
With a smile, Charlotte picked up a pencil and began to sketch the scene that was painting itself in her mind.
Chapter 30
UponhisarrivalatThornhill Park, Victor went directly to Carson, his estate manager, whom he trusted above all others.
“What is the damage?” he demanded.
“It is better viewed,” Carson answered soberly, and the two men set out to inspect the land.
Thornhill Park bordered the River Severn and years ago a dam had been built to keep the land from flooding when there were heavy rains. This also provided a reservoir for animals to drink from. With each season, the dam was inspected and repaired if necessary and should not have failed, which it hadn’t. At least not by means of neglect. No, someone had used an explosive device to damage the dam. The gaping hole in the center was scorched with burns. Without support, the top had caved and allowed the swollen river to empty onto his land. Whoever had done this, had done so intentionally and after the area had received days of heavy rain.
The timing also couldn’t have been worse. The tenant farmers were soon to begin their harvest when the fields were destroyed, which would leave them both hungry and poor through the winter. Victor visited each and promised that he would see them compensated and forgave rents for the next six months. They were not to blame for the loss of income, nor would he hold them responsible for rents that would be impossible to pay.
Repairs on the stables had already begun before he arrived and with any luck, they would be completed before winter set in.
“Do you have any idea who may have deliberately caused the fire and destruction of the dam?” Victor asked Carson.
“We cannot think of anyone. Your family has no enemies.”
“Nor do I,” Victor offered.
“Is there anyone new to the area? Any strangers?”
“No strangers and nobody new other than your brother, but he wouldn’t cause such damage.”
“My brother?” Nobody had told him that Marcus had returned. Then again, Victor hadn’t stopped to talk to anyone before he sought out Carson.
The last Victor had heard was that his younger brother was in Canada with the Royal Artillery, where he’d been sent after Waterloo.
“When did he return?”
“A fortnight ago. Everyone was surprised when he arrived without sending word ahead.”
“It will be good to see him,” Victor said. At least he enjoyed his brother’s company.
“He is not here,” Carson advised. “He left the morning of the fire and the dam destruction.”
“Hopefully, he will return soon.” With hands on his hips, Victor surveyed the dam. “How long do you think it will be before repairs can be completed?”
“We cannot even begin until the waters recede further, and then we will get started on shoring it up. We don’t know how much damage has been done below the water.”
Victor nodded and returned to the house. Unfortunately, he would not be returning to Willanton as soon as he liked and needed to write to Charlotte.
Charlottehadspentherentire life sleeping alone, but after sleeping with Victor for only two months, the bed was cold, empty and no longer as comfortable.
A fitful sleep at night led to naps during the day and she hardly accomplished anything throughout the day.
