Page 81 of Diana Adores the Puzzled Duke

Amelia founda moment to sneak away while Robert was in Cambridge. She rode over to Luddy’s estate and called upon him. But she was informed that he was engaged with a number of engineers going over plans for the canalproject.

“Might I see him briefly,” she asked Danton who seemed to disapprove of her unannouncedvisit.

“I shall see if he can tear himself away from his meeting,” Danton saidacidly.

He left her waiting at the front door, not even inviting her into the entryhall.

Presently Luddy appeared. “Amelia, and to what do I owe the honor of thisvisit?”

“It is hardly an honor when your domestic keeps me waiting on your doorstep,” she said, pushing her way past him into thehouse.

“This is not a good time, Amelia,” he said, taking her by the arm and restraining her from entering further into thehouse.

She pulled her arm away from hisgrasp.

“Do not be a fool, Luddy. I have come with what might prove to be important information foryou.”

“And what isthat?”

“I happened to see a letter from Robert’s publisher this morning with a list of the events where his book is to be publicized. I thought it might be useful information. Of course, I have no idea how you might use that information, butnonetheless…”

“You would do that for me?” he asked, gently stroking herhand.

“Two words… seven and a half percent andmarriage.

“That was more than twowords.”

Amelia waggled her head. “Then take me tocourt.”

“And you brought this information withyou?”

“What? Do you take me for a fool? I want a formal proposal of marriage in writing, and I want to know exactly what your plans are for Robert. I assume you have… how shall I say this?… methods to persuade him to agree to the canal? But I want in no way to be implicated in any of your schemes. After all, he is my baby brother and I am very protective ofhim.”

“And that is all?” Luddy askedamused.

“And I want my seven and a half percent in a letter of credit, payable to me, that can be cashed at any UK bank. Am quite Iclear?”

Luddy reached over and stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. “You are so adorable. How you amuseme.”

Amelia was not to be distracted by his sweet talk. “And when I have the promise of marriage I shall supply you with the list of events. You know where to reach me,” she said and then swept out of thehouse.