Page 37 of A Winter By the Sea
Georgie said, “The attic has plenty of room. There’s the old servants’ sitting room, or the nursery is even bigger.”
“But, Georgie, that’s near your room,” Mamma said.
Mr. Thomson hesitated. “We might make a fair bit of noise, tromping around up there.”
“I don’t mind,” Georgie replied. “Especially if I can watch you fence.”
He turned back to their mother. “Is that all right with you, Mrs. Summers?”
“I suppose so. Although if plaster begins raining down on our heads, you shall have to find another place.”
“Of course.”
“I’ll show you where it is,” Georgie said, leading the men upstairs.
Emily laid aside her quill and notebook. “I think I shall watch as well.”
Sarah and Mamma continued with their sewing. Half an hour or so later, Emily returned.
“How is it going up there?” Sarah asked, looking up from her needlework.
“Mr. Thomson is all patience, but Mr. During’s technique leaves much to be desired. I shall demonstrate.” Taking up her quill again, Emily brandished it as though a small sword, striking out with timid, mincing jabs while her feet shuffled in a lumbering gallop.
“Oh dear.” Mamma pressed a hand to her mouth to stifle a laugh.
Sarah bit back a grin. “We should not make fun of our guests.”
Emily ceased her pantomime, amusement shining in her eyes. “Then let us just say, Selwyn During is an honest man and sadly correct about his athletic ability.”
That night, Emily dreamed she was dancing with Charles Parker. He held her close as they whirled to the music. Heavenly.
Mr. Thomson appeared and tapped her shoulder. When she turned, he handed her a fencing foil.
“Time to rise.”
Rise?
The music faded.
“Emily?” Sarah’s voice. “Wake up. It is time to get ready for church.”
“Ugh.” Emily pulled the counterpane over her face.
Sarah said strategically, “I wonder if Mr. Thomson shall attend this morning.”
Down went the counterpane, just as her sister had known it would.
“How long do I have to dress?”
Sarah consulted her watch pin. “Thirty minutes.”
“What!” Emily threw back the bedclothes and launched from the mattress. “You should have woken me earlier.”
“I did try. More than once.”
Emily hurried to the basin and began to wash. “May I borrow your Oldenburg bonnet? I think it becomes me rather well.”
“You may. It’s on the dressing chest.”
