Page 18 of When She Was a Governess
“She will need a lady’s maid, my lord.”
“Ah yes, of course. I will have Mrs. Bromley search for someone appropriate.”
“Might I offer my congratulations, my lord? And might I say that I find Miss Ashford truly lovely, both in character and appearance. The staff have long admired her devotion to Miss Amelia and her kindness to everyone in this household. To see her elevated to mistress of the house will bring them joy. After they finish being utterly astounded. As for myself, I confess to feeling rather delighted. She will be a perfect wife for you, my lord.”
“Thank you, Grimshaw. I could not agree more.” Henry smiled, pleased by the endorsement from the somber butler. “And now, to business.” He picked up the letters from his desk. “Two letters requiring your immediate attention. This one goes to His Grace the Duke of Ashford in London—Miss Ashford’s brother. Send it by the fastest post available. Spare no expense.”
“Of course, my lord.” Grimshaw accepted the letter, nodding. “Her brother. The Duke.”
Henry picked up the second letter. “This letter is directed to my parents. However, you are not to send it until the morning of my wedding. Not before. Is that clear?”
“The morning of, my lord?” Grimshaw’s thick eyebrows rose. “Ah. Yes. Quite right to do so.”
“Precisely. I’m relying on your discretion in this matter.”
“You have it, my lord. Always.” Grimshaw tucked both letters into his coat. “Will there be anything else?”
“Yes. Please have Mrs. Bromley come to see me at her earliest convenience,” Henry said. “One more thing. Miss Ashford is to join me for dinner this evening.”
“I’ll see to it, my lord.”
Henry thanked him again and then watched as his unflappable butler nearly stumbled on the edge of the rug. It was really quite amusing.
After the door closed, Henry returned to the window, watching the rain streak down the glass. He smiled despite himself. By week’s end, Miss Sophia Ashford would be Lady Montrose, and Amelia would have the mother she deserved.
*
A soft knockcame at the door some ten minutes later. “My lord? You wished to see me?”
“Mrs. Bromley, yes. Please, come in. Sit.”
The housekeeper entered, her expression expectant. She settled into the chair, waiting.
“She accepted,” Henry said.
“I’m very pleased to hear it, my lord.” Mrs. Bromley’s smile was warm. “Miss Ashford will make an excellent Lady Montrose. And Miss Amelia will be so happy.”
“Yes. It’s a good solution for everyone.”
“Indeed, my lord.” She paused, then added carefully, “I’ve begun making arrangements as we discussed this morning. The household is prepared to receive the news. And I’ll coordinate with the church regarding the ceremony.”
“Good. Thank you.” Henry moved to lean against his desk. “I’ll need you to arrange for a proper wardrobe for my bride as well. Whatever she requires. Spare no expense.”
“Of course, my lord. I’ll ask the dressmaker to come right away.” Mrs. Bromley smoothed her skirts. “And the guest accommodations?”
“Yes. Prepare rooms for Lord and Lady Ashford. Lord James and his wife.”
“Then we’ll prepare the blue guest suite for His Grace, and the rose chamber for Lord James. How many days do we have?”
“Seven. I’m riding to see the bishop tomorrow about the license.”
“Very good, my lord. Mrs. Mills will be delighted to prepare a proper wedding feast.” She rose, then hesitated. “May I say, my lord, that Miss Ashford has been a credit to this household these past two years. She’s been devoted to Miss Amelia and kind to the staff. We’re all very fond of her.”
“I’m glad to hear it.”
Mrs. Bromley’s gaze moved briefly to Rebecca’s portrait above the mantel, then back to him. “Miss Ashford’s had a difficult life, by all accounts. I hope…” She stopped herself, as if remembering her place.
“What is it, Mrs. Bromley?”
