“I agree with Gareth,” Ellen said. “I fear it will be too late in the season for a good crop this year, but I believe there might still be some vegetables that can be harvested to help them this winter.”
“We need a good source of protein for them too,” Reese said. “I know cows and chicken need expensive grain, but they provide milk, eggs, and meat. What about pigs? Don’t they eat just about anything? Oh, could your staff set aside the cast-off food that’s not fit for humans to eat?”
“That would create more work for my staff.” The Earl shrugged.
“At least in the beginning, it would help them a lot,” Jem said. “Once they’re established and doing well, it might not be needed anymore.”
“Exactly,” Reese said, excited.
“I believe it can be done.” Gareth shot a dark look at Jem, but said to Reese, “I will ask around. I should have people working for me who can help with this.”
When they came around the curve to the village, Ellen gasped. “It ismuchimproved. I almost do not recognize it. This is wonderful.”
Gareth pulled up the wagon, jumped out, and came around to Reese’s side. Jem was already there.
“Cousin.” He lifted her from the wagon before she could argue that she didn’t need help, leaving the Earl to assist his sister.
Reese exchanged glances with Ellen, who looked resigned about something.
As Gareth set his sister on the ground, the cottiers swarmed around them. They didn’t hold back today but hurried over to bow and curtsy to them and then shake his hand. Everyone wanted to touch him. Many cried out, “Bless you, my lord, my lady. Bless you.”
Reese searched for Lily. When she didn’t see the girl among the throng, Reese’s stomach knotted. A hand fell upon her shoulder, and she looked up into Gareth’s dark, sympathetic eyes.
“I will come with you,” he said softly. “I don’t know what you expect, but I think you should not face this alone.”
She took his arm gratefully. He patted her hand as they walked to the last cottage on the left. Reese took a deep breath and knocked on the door.
Lily opened it again, as shy as before. She bobbed a nice little curtsy and didn’t stumble at all.
“Well done,” Reese whispered to her, and the little girl grinned before ducking her head.
“Mum is waiting for you, miss. Your lordship.” She held open the door and stepped out of the way.
“Good morning.” Reese approached the bed. “How are you both today?”
“Thank you for the extra food, miss,” Sarah said. “My milk has come in fine now, and he’s eating well.” She held up the baby, who was sleeping.
Reese’s hands shook a little as she carried the bundle out the door, grateful for the good weather. Gareth was at her side and put a hand on her shoulder. She pulled back the blanket.
“Would you like me to help with him again?” the Earl asked.
“Please.”
He took the baby and held him in the best light. Reese pressed against his skin, looking for an increase in the yellow, for the swelling that she had read accompanied an Rh baby. But the infant’s skin looked pinker today. She pulled back the baby’s eyelids. It was definitely better today. She looked up, met Gareth’s anxious gaze, and grinned.
Hewhoopedand raised the baby in the air.
“What is wrong?” Sarah cried from inside the cottage.
“Nothing is wrong, good woman.” Gareth strode inside and brought the now-screaming baby to its mother. “You have a fine son here, and Miss Clarisse believes he will be healthy.” He looked to Reese for confirmation, and she nodded.
“I think Lily should continue to sit with him in filtered sunlight for another couple of days,” Reese said with a sniff. She wanted to run outside and dance in the street. “Be sure to keep nursing him often.”
“I will, miss, and thank you. Thank you, my lord.”
Reese could barely contain herself as she walked with the Earl past Lily and out on the street. Once the door had closed, Reese turned and threw her arms around his neck. She cried with happiness.
Chapter 22
