Page 66 of A Pure Lady for the Broken Duke

“With the intent of?”

“Why marriage, of course. Since your dear grandson has been unwilling—or unable—to find a bride, I thought it best if I stepped forward and tried to repair the finances in this family.”

“They only need to be repaired because of your skullduggery.”

Wilcox humbly bowed. “I fully acknowledge my part in the situation. But that does not prevent me from also trying to right it.”

“And what is it you need from me?” she asked tamping a stack of papers on the top of her desk.

“Mother, dearest, it would be ever so useful if you might ask some of your London friends to put in a good word for me with her Ladyship. It is true we have begun to socialize, but some positive reinforcement from others in her circle would go a long way in her building trust in me. And remember, we shall all benefit if she and I were to marry.”

“You want her husband’s fortune.”

Wilcox smiled slightly. “It would not hurt.”

Augusta seemed to struggle with his request. “Wilcox… I know you to be a scoundrel and yet you ask me to have my friends recommend you to Lady Monmouth.”

“Yes. That is it exactly.”

Chapter 22

The ball was to be held on Saturday night, but already, on Friday afternoon, carriages were arriving from London and other major cities with guests coming to stay the weekend. Pemberton would be at full capacity.

The house was a hive of activity with Grandmamma, as the Queen Bee, directing the various servants in charge of different activities—guest servants—meals—music—the ball dinner—and on and on.

Thomas had basically withdrawn from the organization of the ball. He was letting his Grandmamma have free reign to direct the event as she chose. It was much more important to her than to him.

He and George were planning their trip to London. They needed to meet with the banker and the solicitors and try to drum up the rest of the investment. Autumn was coming on, and the racing season would be starting up again in March. They wanted to be ready to put their horses in as many racing events as possible next year.

But as the guests were arriving, Thomas was constantly being called away to welcome the new arrivals.

Finally, he said to George. “I think we need to give up for the rest of the afternoon. I have far too many responsibilities as host to be able to concentrate on our work.”

“I quite agree. And Helena has been after me to visit with her before the ball as her father is away and we shall not be discovered. Evidently, she needs my undivided attention to help her compose her ensemble. Although why that should be, I have no idea.”

“Ah, the mysteries of the feminine mind…”

“And it seems Helena has been prepping your Miss Barnett for her debut at the ball. It appears to be a more complicated campaign than Waterloo.”

Thomas laughed. “I am so glad all I have to do is tell my valet to pick something appropriate for me to wear and have him dress me.”

George teased, “And have the appropriate young heiresses been beating at Pemberton’s door?”

“Oh, God, I hope not. But I am certain Grandmamma has been up to her skullduggery.”

“Then I shall leave you alone with your admirers and see you tomorrow evening.”

“Tell Helena to save a dance for me. You may not co-opt her for yourself the entire evening.”

“I am certain she would scold me if I did. We are not married yet, and I know she prides herself on the scope of her admirers asking for a place on her dance card.”

Thomas sighed. “God help us all. I cannot tell you how happy I shall be when this is all over, and we can get back to our business at hand. Starting a new business is infinitely easier than having to attend one of Grandmamma’s balls.”

* * *

Jenny was early to arrive at Springford. She was nervous, excited, and quite unsure of herself. She had never attended a ball before and was ignorant of its many customs and traditions. Would she fit in or stand out like a barber’s pole?

Helena greeted her warmly and took her immediately up to her suite where she had tea awaiting.