“Willingly.”
“What if… I hired Percy and Maria to run the Repington estate? He and Maria could then marry and manage it together. Maria is well qualified to be a co-manager, as she has done so with you at Creassey. She would be able to make up for any shortcomings Percy might have as a beginning manager while he is gaining experience. I believe he is bright, willing, and capable. It would solve their problem, and Dorothy and my problem of what to do with Repington. We would not need to sell it.”
“What an elegant solution, dear Anna. I think they would willingly embrace that solution.” But Harry had a further thought. “But there is another matter.”
“And that is?”
“Maria’s dowry is quite small. Percy has nothing of his own and I was hoping to be able to increase her dowry so that they would have a good solid bedrock starting out in their marriage. Yes, they will be getting an income from running Repington, but I should like them to also have something of their own.”
“Then increase her dowry.”
Harry grimaced. “Ah… you see, I am unable to increase it at this time. I have put all of my resources into the cattle, and while it is a growing business, I am unable to take out any capital right now.”
Anna shrugged. “That is not a problem. I am bringing a considerable fortune with me to our marriage, Harry. Please, use what you think is necessary from that to increase Maria’s dowry. After all, she is also a great friend of mine, and I want for her to be well settled.”
Harry hesitated, “My dear, are you certain? I do not want you to think I am taking advantage of you in any way.”
Anna laughed and kissed Harry. “Not at all. I love you both, and as I am fortunate enough to have this wealth, I wish to share it.”
“Then I expect there will be three weddings. Shall we have them all at the same time?”
Anna clapped her hands. “Oh yes, let us do that. It would be very festive.”
Chapter 38
Harry looked very somber when Percy and Maria came to his study—having been summoned.
“Ah, here you are,” he said, standing in front his desk and clasping his hands behind his back.
Maria suddenly felt a chill, as she was unaccustomed to seeing Harry looking so grim. “What is it, Harry. Has something gone wrong?”
He indicated the two chairs pulled up in front of his desk. “Sit,” he said.
Maria was not accustomed to taking orders from her brother and she went over to him and slapped him on the shoulder. “Harry Buxton, stop playing games. I do not know what you are up to, but you had better behave yourself, or you shall have me to deal with.”
Harry laughed. “Oh, Maria, you are spoiling my surprise. I wanted to make you think there was trouble ahead.”
She slapped his shoulder again. “You know, I know you better than anyone, and I will not take your foolishness. Come out with it. What is it you need to tell us?”
“Very well, but I still want you to sit down. We have a lot to discuss.” They did. “You asked for my advice and help and here is what we have come up with?”
“Who iswe?” Maria asked.
“Anna and I.”
Astonished, Maria asked, “Anna?”
“Yes, I explained your situation and she has offered to help.”
“Why would Anna want to help me?” Percy asked.
“We want to help the both of you. Percy, you are my friend as well as being Maria’s intended. Now listen carefully.” Harry then outlined the proposal. When he was finished, Percy and Maria were so stunned they could not immediately respond. “Well? What do you think?”
Maria and Percy turned to each other in unison—mouths agape.
“It is beyond generous,” Maria finally said. “How absolutely dear and generous Anna is.”
Percy stood and gave Harry a hug, tears in his eyes. “I do not deserve a friend like you, Harry.”
