“How delightful. That is something I have always wanted to try, but, of course, London offers no opportunity for me to engage in such a delightful sport.”
“You?” he asked surprised. “I know of no ladies who are interested in that.”
“Then let me be the first,” she said with a sly smile.
He felt obliged to offer, “Then, let me be the one to instruct you—although it may take several sessions to get the hang of it, as it is a skill that must be learned over time.”
She lowered her eyes as she said, “But with your expert instruction I feel certain I shall learn very quickly.”
Harry could see what she was trying to do, but surprisingly, he did not mind. She was a very attractive woman who seemed to be interested in him, and he thought he might enjoy her company—especially since Anna continued her infatuation with Percy.
“Then I shall have a fishing rod waiting for you, at your convenience.”
“Perhaps the day I come to see your cattle?”
“I see no reason why not.”
Chapter 9
Daniels was still manning the drinks table. It was not yet time for the first guests to be leaving, so Maria was finally free to have her dance with Percy. He cast a glance her way and she nodded for him to come over.
“Finally,” he said. “I thought we might never get our dance together.”
“The trials of being a hostess.”
Percy took her arm and led her to the dancefloor when the next dance was ready to start—a cotillion.
“My dearest Maria, it seems I hardly get to see you anymore. You are always so busy.”
“It has been difficult since father passed. And with mother in constant pain and incapacitated, Harry and I must take care of the entire estate. It is a lot of work and I am either overseeing some household obligation or I am exhausted and not good company.”
“I should love to take you away some afternoon. Perhaps we could have a picnic—just the two of us. Might you be able to get away for a few hours for that?”
She smiled. “I would love that. But I hope you do not expect me to put the picnic together?”
Percy laughed. “Well, I was hoping you might. Our cook can barely fry an egg, let alone organize a basket lunch.” He pouted. “Please, you do such wonderful things with food.”
“Well, cook does. She is a gem and we are pleased to have her.”
Percy gave her a pleading look, and she replied, “Oh, very well. I can arrange something.”
The steps of the dance carried them away from each other for a moment before reuniting them. And Percy put his arm around Maria’s waist, even though it was not called for in the dance.
Maria looked up at him wanting to ask, “Dearest, have you developed any plans for your future? Last time we spoke you said you were thinking of scouting in London for some sort of profession?”
Percy pressed his lips together feeling uneasy where this conversation was heading. “Yes, Father spoke to me about going to London soon. I might well do that in the autumn. Until then, I am content to enjoy my summer at home.”
“But, you keep putting it off.”
“Yes, I know,” he said with an edge to his voice. “But these things cannot be rushed. I need to consider all my options and select just the right… one.”
Annoyed at his evasiveness, Maria asked, “And what are those options, Percy?”
He took her arm as the dance ended and escorted her off the floor. “We can discuss these issues later. Let us just enjoy the evening for the moment, shall we?”
“As you wish.”
* * *
