Page 33 of The Butler and the Bluestocking
“Lady Elizabeth . . .”
“Lady Bess, please.”
“Lady Bess, we will wait here for a few minutes and allow the audience to depart.” As he spoke, he took the flowers from her. “I’ll see that these are put in water for display at the dance, and then later vase and blooms will be delivered to your home.”
Bess stared at him scarcely knowing what to say. “Thank you.”There that was perfectly appropriate.
“The society decided on the vase as a memento for our first Lady member. We have had it engraved with the date and occasion of this speech, and most sincerely hope you will return often to speak with us on any topic.”
“I... I’m honored. I will treasure both vase and flowers. And yes, as time permits, I will happily join the scholars of the York Antiquarian Society. But surely this decision by the membership was not unanimous? There must be some who would prefer that a woman never darken the society’s doors again.”
“You are correct, but they are a minority. Most of us could not care less if you are female or otherwise. What interests us, and what you have shown tonight, is the very best of scholarship. I hope you will allow us to print the text of your seminar in the next issue of our journal.”
“Of course. Though I would ask that you seek permission from those other scholars whose work I cited in the course of my speech.”
“It shall be as you wish.”
The door opened. Malcolm Marr entered with Mrs. Nedhelm, Patience and several of Bess’s sisters.
“Let me have those flowers, Herbert.” Athena took the blooms from her husband. “You and I must be on our way if we are to arrive home in time to greet our supper guests.” She turned to Bess who was staring at Malcolm. “Bess, thank you. Your speech was enthralling. Malcolm has requested the privilege of escorting you to supper, and, since your stepmama and sisters are to join us as well, perhaps he may escort you all.”
Athena left, and Patience, eyes sparkling, moved forward. “You were wonderful, Bess. Congratulations. Mr. Marr, will you please escort all of us to the Nedhelms’ for supper?”
“It would be my honor, Lady Seahaven.” He gave a gracious bow. “However, I would like a private moment with Bess, if you will permit it?”
“Do you promise to be on your best behavior?”
“I do.”
Bess had never seen him so solemn.
“In that case, you have my permission “Just for a moment, Mr. Marr. Her sisters and I shall be right outside the door.”
On that note, the room emptied, and Bess was alone with Malcolm.
Chapter Sixteen
