Page 23 of Maid for the Marquess

“I thought as much.”

“Mrs. Dougall, I know this is unorthodox, but Miss Smythe has been in a situation in which I could not leave her. I brought her with me, planning on taking her to a new placement in London, but I have changed my mind.”

“Do you wish me to take her under my wing?”

I sighed. “No, I find her delightful and intriguing. She was raised as a lady and deserves to be one.” I met her eyes. “I intend to make her one. As my wife.”

Her eyebrows lifted in surprise, but she said nothing. I liked that about my housekeeper. Nothing shocked her, and she was always ready to aid me.

“It will happen quickly.”

“I shall air out the marchioness’s room in preparation.”

“Please. I will let her change it in any fashion she wishes once we are wed. It requires some refurbishment, I believe.”

“It was done over not long ago, but we can make any changes she wishes.”

“And Mr. Warwick will be bringing a young lady who will be her lady’s maid. And an older woman—is there a situation here you can fit her into? Something not too strenuous?”

“Of course.”

“Miss Smythe has come from unusual and trying circumstances. She is easily spooked and is fearful of the world around her. I will endeavor to help ease her back into society, but we will be staying here for the foreseeable future.”

She looked sympathetic. “How sad for her.”

“Her life was frightful. She was forced to be a servant in her own home and mistreated. I could not leave her there.”

“You are a good man, my lord.”

“You have always been biased.”

She shook her head, looking sad. “And you will reside in London?”

“No, I plan to make this our home.”

Those words cheered her up. “You have always preferred your time at Wheaton.”

“I have.”

She hesitated. “My lord, the young lady informed me she would stay in her room unless you summoned her and she wouldn’t require dinner.”

I frowned. “Of course she needs dinner.”

Mrs. Dougall met my confused gaze. “She stated she cannot attend your table dressed worse than a servant, my lord. That was what she said to me.” Her eyes shone with sympathy. “She was so ashamed. It hurt my heart to hear her confession. And knowing some of what she has been through, I feel it even more deeply.”

“She has nothing,” I stated, thinking of the small case she had brought and hating the fact that Madeleine had been made to feel less. “I need to aid her but am unsure how.”

“Perhaps, if you are amenable, I can go to the village and see if the dressmaker has anything suitable. A simple gown perhaps that would fit her.”

“Yes,” I agreed eagerly. “Anything you see that you feel would be appropriate. I will settle the account tomorrow when I am able to move a bit easier. Purchase whatever you think is best.”

She stood. “I shall, my lord.” She paused. “And I believe you will be happy with your decision, if I might be so bold as to state my thoughts.”

I chuckled at her directness. I had known her for most of my life, and she often stated her thoughts, whether or not I wished to hear them.

“One last thing—she may have questions. About me. Feel free to answer.”

“My lord?”