Page 76 of A Winter By the Sea
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Despite the very cold weather, the duchess, her daughter and nurse were seen on the Esplanade.
—Nigel Hyman,Sidmouth’s Royal Connections
Emily slept for another hour or so. Then she washed and dressed for the day and went downstairs.
She had just donned her cloak when she saw Mr. Thomson leaving the house, greatcoat collar turned up against the wind. Pulling on her gloves, she picked up Viola’s work bag and hurried outside to catch up with him.
“Mr. Thomson!” she called.
He turned, and seeing her, he walked back, meeting her halfway. “Good morning. How did you sleep?”
She felt herself flush. “Remarkably well, considering. You?”
“For some reason,” he replied archly, “I awoke with a crick in my neck.”
“I can’t imagine why. But perhaps the less said about that, the better. Going to Woolbrook?”
“Yes. To see if His Royal Highness wishes to dictate any letters or has made a decision about becoming a patron of the Poor’s Friend Society.”
“How do you view our chances?”
“Above average. Despite his debts and unenviable reputation, he is quite charitable.”
“Glad to hear it. I am on my way to Westmount. Do you mind if I walk with you?”
He shook his head. “How could I mind that? I always enjoy your company. Awake or not.”
She chuckled and they walked on.
He said, “Pardon my impertinence, but did you not just see Mrs. Hutton yesterday?”
“I did. I am returning her work bag. She left it in the parlour when we were surprised by the Parkers’ call.”
“And it could not wait?”
“I don’t mind. I am always happy for an excuse to see her.”
He said, “I admire your closeness with your sisters, especially Mrs. Hutton. I suppose it is because you are twins?”
“Perhaps, though we have not always been close. There used to be more discord between us than anything else. Thankfully, that rift has been repaired.”
He looked at her, dark eyes alight. “How did you bridge the gap?”
Emily shrugged, thinking back. “Apologies. Talking. Time. Oh, and she nearly drowned last summer, which scared the life out of me and made me realize how much I love her.”
“Well, I don’t wish my brothers to nearly drown, but I do wish we were closer.”
“Do you and your brothers not often talk?”
“Barely at all in the last few years.”
“Youhavebeen away a great deal.”
“True. Though we rarely talked even before I moved away.”
“Perhaps you might try writing a letter?” She ventured a small grin. “I understand you are quite skilled at correspondence.”
