Page 108 of The Lady and the Duke

“Thankyou.”

“And what will your next project be when it iscompleted?”

“I was thinking to begin work on expanding the greenhouse over the winter. I very much want to start my tropicalcollection.”

“Let me know if I can help you in any way,” Lydia said, as shestood.

“Perhaps I might consult with you about what might be planted around the pond besides the trees I have selected. I was thinking we should plant a number of aquatic plants. What do youthink?”

It seemed to Lydia that he was struggling to find a way to connect with her that did not involve romance but still included friendship. She felt sad but wanted to maintain any non-threatening closeness they mightachieve.

“Let me look through my catalogues and I will come up with some suggestions.” She was ready to leave. “I must get back to the orchard. I am so close to finishing the pruning now and I am anxious to get on to planting thetrees.”

She started toleave.

“Wait. Onemoment.”

Shestopped. “Yes?”

Mother has invited guests to stay with us at Honeyfield for a number of days next week, and we have decided to have a dinner and invite a few locals for them to meet. We would be honored if you and your mother couldjoinus.”

Lydia nodded. “I am sure my mother will be attending to your mother, inanycase.”

Edwin nodded. “Yes, but I still would like you to attend.” He suddenly seemed to realize she might not want to. “If it suits you, ofcourse.”

“I should be honored. And theguestsare?”

“The Earl of Albemarsh, his son, Daniel Beaufort, and his daughter, Caroline. They will be down from London. The Earl owns the estate adjoining ours to thenorth.”

“And the mother?” Lydiaasked.

“She isdeceased.”

Lydia was not sure she wanted to do this, but she would. She would very much like to see this Miss Caroline Beaufort. And then there wasDaniel.