Page 82 of Rogue’s Holiday

“Thank you,” said Robbie, lifting the messages from the tray and handing Jack’s to him.

Robbie set aside his brandy and read the missive. “It seems she regretted having to leave and thanks me, once again, for delivering her to her great-aunt.”

“The message from Miss Crockett is warm as well though it says little to encourage a man’s suit.”

“Given the two ladies, we could hardly expect that. Now,” said Robbie, subsiding into an armchair, “we must discuss strategy.”

“You have that look in your eyes, Nephew.” Taking the other armchair, Jack asked, “What are you thinking?”

“You have met Miss Crockett’s parents, yes?”

“I have.”

“And secured their blessing?”

“It took every title I possess and proof of my residence in Guernsey as well as my bank holdings, but yes.”

“Perfect. I’m thinking we are going to attend a wedding.”

Muriel toyed with one of her long strands of pearls as she waited for Sir Robert to join her in the library. He had asked to see her after dinner, which aligned perfectly with her desire as she needed to speak with him as well. She had matched many couples over the years but Robbie might be her most challenging as rogues were difficult to place. But she loved them, one in particular. Like Sir Robert, the young Earl of Claremont had been very charming, and though she would confess it to only a few, he’d had a reputation as a rogue. She had laughed at his flattery, certain it was not to be trusted, but his decisive candor, intelligence and determination to forsake all others for her had won her heart. Sir Robert must proceed in the same manner if he wanted to win the hand of the headstrong and beautiful Chastity Reynolds.

Agatha had asked for her help and Muriel meant to give it. Really, one could not leave such important matters to young people.

The carriage ride from London to Brighton had told Muriel much about the young woman. Where she had expected overconfidence, even arrogance, she found an insecure beauty who used her intelligence and wit as a defense. Likely, they had gained her many an advantage and many suitors. She would have rejected any she considered weaklings she could dominate. Only a few men could handle the young hoyden without breaking her spirit. Sir Robert was one of those. He was, therefore, the perfect husband for Chastity. He just needed a bit of advice.

The door opened. “Lady Claremont?”

“Come in, dear boy, and pour yourself a brandy from the decanter and then join me by the fire.” He followed her instructions and was soon ensconced in the armchair across from her.

“Now, Sir Robert, we must discuss your approach to Miss Reynolds.”

“My approach?”

“Indeed, yes. She is not the type of young woman who can be dictated to or told whom she will marry, well, at least not at first, which you have done to your detriment. Moreover, she will be loath to trust a rogue.”

“But—”

“Don’t argue. I know you, Sir Robert. I married one much like you and ours was a love match that endured until the earl’s death. Rogues do reform; I know it well. But Miss Reynolds does not. I doubt not she loves you—one can see it on her face when she speaks of you—but she is inclined to distrust you, for good reasons, I imagine. Worse, she has a notion she does not need to marry. So, listen carefully and I will tell you what you must do.”

The handsome rogue leaned back in his chair, took a sip of his drink and met Muriel’s steady gaze. “Go on.”

“You must assure her of your fidelity as well as your love. She may put you off at first, in which case you must be persistent, as I know you can be. When the opportunity presents itself, and it will, you must strike quickly, giving her no chance to decline. Select a public place. By that time, you will have her heart and her respect.”

“I can do that,” he said.

Having accomplished her task, Muriel looked up with raised brows. “Was there something you wanted to discuss with me?”

“Ah…no.” He shook his head. She thought he might be a bit dazed. “No, that quite does it, I believe. Thank you.”

“I tell you, Jack, those calm gray eyes and silver hair are deceiving.” Robbie gave the grays their heads on the short run back to the Pavilion. “I am convinced that woman could have given Napoleon a run for his money.”

“That bad, eh?”

“Positively frightening. But I dare say, The Grand Countess is a wise one. Hence, I’m going to follow her advice.”

“So we leave for Northampton tomorrow?”

“We do. Let’s hope with all the wedding guests, The Swan Inn has a room.”