Page 11 of The Truth about the Duke
“Precisely!”
“Though that might not capture the interest of many, only those who live in that particular area,” Lydia muttered, pouring the tea carefully. It was only when she set it down that she was hit with another thought, one that made her pause.
“What is it?” Evidently aware that Lydia had thought of something, Sophie leaned forward in her chair, her eyes rounded. “What are you thinking?”
“What if I wrote about the history of a place and connected it to a family here in London now?” Lydia’s heart quickened. “I would be able to study, to read, and to explore as much as I wished! Then I would be able to take what I have learned and present it in an article! Would that not get the attention of theton?”
Her friend began to nod slowly, a smile beginning to spread across her face. “Indeed, I think it would! It would mean that the family of whoever you chose to write about would be interested, but there would also be a curiosity from thetonabout whatever history you choose to divulge. It could be something between learning and gossip!”
“Precisely!”
“Though,” Sophie added, holding up one hand, palm out towards Lydia, “you may have to use a different name.”
Lydia’s shoulders slumped, though she quickly understood what it was her friend meant. “You think that The London Chronicle would not accept articles from a lady.”
At this, Sophie shook her head. “No, it is not that. The London Chronicle already has many a lady’s name attached to it! I worry that your parents would be greatly displeased and prevent you from doing anything more than one article! And what would you do then?” She shrugged. “Besides which, what if the person or family you choose to write about is displeased by your attentions? You need to protect yourself.”
With her understanding clear now, Lydia nodded but smiled all the same. “I think that is quite a wonderful suggestion! I am delighted with your idea, Sophie. Thank you for thinking of me.”
“But of course.” Her friend reached to pick up her tea cup. “I know that you have struggled against your parents' disapproval for some time and that even now, it must be very difficult indeed.”
“It is made easier when I have your friendship and understanding,” Lydia answered, feeling herself happier than she had been in some time. “Thank you again, Sophie. This is quite wonderful!”
Taking a sip of her tea and then reaching for one of the small cakes that had been set out, Sophie shot Lydia a quick look. “I must ask, who will you write about first?”
Only one name came to mind and Lydia chuckled softly, sitting back in her chair and grinning at her friend. “Well, I must get the attention of theton, must I not?”
“Yes, you must.”
“And I must write something to intrigue and delight, yes?”
Sophie nodded.
“Then I think I shall write about the Duke of Melrose,” Lydia said, with a chuckle as Sophie gasped. “And mayhap, if I am fortunate, it will bring down that arrogancejusta little.” Her smile faded. “Though it also might do precisely the opposite also.”
Sophie tipped her head, her eyes going towards the window for a few moments as she thought. Then, with a small nod, she directed her gaze back towards Lydia. “I think that an excellent idea, however.”
“You do?”
“I do.”
Lydia took in a deep breath and then set her shoulders. “Then I shall do all I can to learn about the Duke of Melrose and writean article that will, I hope, do all that I want it do to. I can only hope that it will be accepted by The London Chronicle!”
“As do I,” came the reply. “But you write well and I am sure this will be an excellent thing for you.”
Lydia nodded and reached for her own tea, a sense of excitement building in her, something she had not felt in some time. Now, finally, she had a chance to pursue her love of learning but this time, with a purpose.
She could only pray others liked what she wrote, otherwise it would be only one article and nothing thereafter. And then what would there be in London for her?
Chapter Five
“Are you quite ready to give up yet?”
Henry glanced to Lord Kendall, then shook his head. “If you are asking me what I think you are asking, then the answer is no.”
Lord Kendall chuckled. “I am asking you whether or not you are ready to admit that your list of requirements is much too long and will never be entirely fulfilled.”
“Then the answer iscertainlyno.” Henry chuckled wryly as his friend rolled his eyes. “There are many young ladies in London and I have not been introduced to all of them as yet. And those Ihavebeen introduced to, I do not know.”
