Page 22 of The Sisters of Sea View
“You sound skeptical. Are you perhaps acquainted with Mr. Butcher, a dissenting minister here in Sidmouth?”
“I have heard of him.”
“He quit London on account of indisposition many years ago, and he never ceases to express how much benefit he has received from residing in Devonshire.”
Sarah said, “Yes, we have heard. Or perhaps I should say, have read in his books.”
Mamma objected, “Plunging into cold, rough sea water is the last thing I want to do.”
“But Mamma, Dr. Clarke says...”
She raised her hand. “I will try the medical brine baths first. See if that has any effect before I subject myself to something so drastic.”
Dr. Clarke considered. “In that case, let me caution you not to eat or drink either immediately before or after bathing, so the fibers might have no immediate supply to distend them.”
“I think there is little risk of that,” Sarah said. “Mamma has sadly little appetite at any time.”
“Do you truly think it will help?” her mother asked.
“I do.” He solemnly nodded. “Beyond doubt, salts found in sea water own a great share in the cures done by medicinal baths. The method might prevent, or even cure, internal glandular complaints.”
“Well then,” Sarah said, feeling a welcome trickle of hope. “It certainly seems worth a try. Thank you, Doctor.”
Leaving Mamma to rest, Sarah walked Dr. Clarke out, then started toward the library they used as an office. Through the drawing room door, she saw Mr. Henshall staring up at the wall.
She walked closer. “Good day, Mr. Henshall. Looking for something?”
“Hm? Oh, just ... admiring this landscape.”
Sarah glanced dubiously at the dark painting. It had come with the house and was not one of her favorites. Ah well. There was no accounting for taste.
“Everything satisfactory with the accommodations so far?” she asked. “Have all you need?”
“Oh, aye.”
“And are you enjoying your stay?”
“It’s ... fine. Effie is a bit bored, I’m afraid. I hope ye are not offended.”
“Not at all.” Sarah thought, then said, “My sister Georgiana is only a year or so older, and when she has time, she loves to go bathing and walking and berry picking and kite flying—all kinds of sport ... anything out-of-doors, really. If you would allow it, I am sure Georgiana would be happy to include Effie in some of her outings.”
“I won’t have her going into the water. Understand? Not without me. It wouldna be safe.”
Sarah reared her head back at his vehemence. Perhaps he disliked the sea as much as Emily did.
He grimaced. “Sorry. It’s just ... I would worry the whole time.”
“I understand.”
“But the rest, aye, if your sister wouldna mind.”
“I shall ask her. What have you seen of the area so far?”
“Oh, the grounds here, the beach, some of the town. Sadly, Effie is not terribly keen. Prefers to stay in her room with her fashion plates.”
“Oh dear. You’ve come too far to see no more than that.”
“So I tell her.”
