Page 58 of Hot Duke Summer

Sent to:

Mister Alfie Collins, Apothecary

87 Harley Street, London

Dear Alfie,

I am delighted to inform you that we have safely arrived in Northumberland, a journey we completed in a third of the time originally estimated. It seems my new brother-in-law possesses an uncanny skill at handling the phaeton, surpassing even my bride’s considerable love for speed. Amidst the whirlwind of our departure from London, my sole regret was the inability to extend an invitation to our nuptials to you.

I am also pleased to report that the issue of my restless nights has been thoroughly resolved. You were correct in your assessment—it was not a physical malady that plagued me, but rather a certain emptiness of the heart. Now, with my soul’s counterpart by my side, sleep eludes me no longer. The exchange of love between us has proven to be both bountiful and healing.

Upon our return, we restored Lola’s ancestral cottage, which now serves as a comfortable abode for her brother. The cottage is conveniently situated a mere two fields away from my estate, creating a pleasant sense of closeness between the new duchess and her brother.

She’s a most unlikely duchess, and I love her more than I love life itself. With the assistance of my steward and the support of several villagers, she has transformed vast tracts of deforested land into flourishing gardens.

She struck an agreement with Lord Chancellor Marlowe to collaborate on widening the roads to gain access to the port, which has become a collaborative effort, approved by the environmental restoration plan that she has adapted to include an exhaustive list of domestic medicinal plants. She eagerly anticipates informing you that we can significantly increase this year’s supply of calendula officinalis, chamomile, lemon verbena, and valerian. Lola assures me that she will communicate the specifics of this endeavor in a forthcoming letter.

I hope the news of our endeavors brings you joy and that we may continue to count on your promise to visit us soon.

Yours sincerely,

Edmund Brandon, Duke of Northumberland

The End