“Yes,” Caroline answered. “I make two copies, which you saw me do last evening. One to remain with my father’s records and one to send to you.”
“I would like copies of the reports from the past year. As I was traveling, they did not reach me.”
“Yes, of course,” she answered. Those had been read, at least by William, and could easily be returned.
Wyndham nodded, accepting her answer.
He then looked at her and frowned. No doubt because of the stains on this dress. He was also probably too much of a gentleman to ask.
“I apologize for my appearance. I only came to see your mother to tell her that I would be working in the gardens today.”
Wyndham frowned further. “Why? You are not an employee of Wyndview Farm.”
“As a favor to your mother,” Caroline answered. “She does adore the gardens but the weeds do need to be tended to.” When Caroline had arrived, it was Lady Wyndham who spent her time in the gardens, but it had become too painful for her knees and back so Caroline had taken over the duties.
“Do I not employ a gardener?” he demanded.
If he had read the reports, and accounting, then he would know already that no wages were paid to one. “There is no one who can see to the task so I took it upon myself.”
“There is no one else?” It was partially a demand as if he did not approve.
There would probably be much that he would find fault with, which was why they all needed to be very careful in what they said and did.
“Ah, Lord Wyndham,” her father greeted boisterously as he entered the office, William following.
Caroline prayed that this meeting went well.
“I have not seen you since I left England.” Her father stopped before Wyndham and bowed. Her brother did the same.
“My son, William,” her father introduced.
“Father has been teaching him since he returned from England so that he might be an estate manager one day,” Caroline offered so that Wyndham did not question William’s presence. It was imperative that her brother be allowed to remain for the meeting.
“Please have a seat.” Wyndham indicated to the two chairs before his desk. “I have reviewed the report and accounting and have a few questions.”
Caroline was certain that her heart was caught in her throat. So long as the questions were about grapes and wine, she had no concern, but if Wyndham asked about any other aspect of the estate, they could be doomed.
“I am certain that you would rather have tea, or brandy, or perhaps a glass of Wynd Wine, before we begin,” Mr. Hallaway suggested.
“After being on a ship for so long, you must want to rest. We can always discuss the estate tomorrow,” William offered. “You only arrived yesterday.”
“I am well and rested, thank you,” Wyndham answered curtly. “Nor do I believe brandy or wine is appropriate for this hour. If you require tea, I will have it served.”
Caroline winced as she backed toward the door.
Her father had attempted charm and failed.
Wyndham looked in her direction and arched a brow.
He clearly wanted her to be gone. “If you will excuse me,” Caroline offered then ducked out of the room. However, she left the door ajar and found a position where she could hear what was being said without being seen or her shadow being cast into the room.
“I am certain you are eager to learn about the grapes, harvest, and wine making,” her father began. “We have an excellent crop this year…”
“Tobacco.”
Caroline nearly groaned. Why couldn’t Wyndham ask about the wine?
“Tobacco?” her father asked as if he had never heard the term before.
