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“Yes, I understand.” Susan clasped her hands in her lap. “And how likely is it the Duke will agree to this, do youthink?”

“I believe the idea of the school will greatly appeal to him. He’s talked about this idea for several years now. He cares a great deal about his workers, and one of their great concerns has always been securing a good education for their children, as they’re so isolated on the estate with no easy access to the local schools. However, John’s pain goes so very deep at the loss of his wife that he’s created a blind spot when it comes to his daughter. I don’t know how or when that pain can be healed, but his daughter must not be the price of thatpain.”

Susan was greatly affected by Aunt’s words and she rose from her chair and went over and kneeled down beside Aunt, and took her hands inhers.

“Aunt Clarissa, how caring you are. I’m not insensitive to your concerns and Elizabeth’s plight. I promise to give your proposal my deepest and most sincere consideration. But I’ll need to fully think this and share the proposal with my parents and a few trusted friends. I hope you don’t mind me doingthat?”

Aunt smiled and shook Susan’s hands. “Not at all, my dear. But keep it as confidential as possible,please.”

Susan leaned in and gave Aunt Clarissa ahug.

“I promise to have a decision for you as soon as Ican.”

“Thankyou.”