Page 70 of A Winter By the Sea
“Goodness.”
An awkward silence passed. Sarah was relieved when Mr. Gwilt quietly came in with a fresh pot of tea.
Mamma poured for their guests, and Sarah passed them the plate of small currant-dotted cakes.
“Sarah makes those herself,” Georgie offered.
She was trying to be helpful, but Sarah doubted a woman like Louise Parker would be impressed to learn a gently bred lady performed kitchen tasks.
Charles took a bite and said politely, “Delicious.”
“Yes,” his mother agreed, although her smile seemed tight.
“It’s nothing,” Sarah said, feeling self-conscious.
Another pause, filled by the tinkling of china cups on saucers.
Mrs. Parker set down her barely touched cake. “And what of Claire? Is she still in Scotland with a relative? Your husband’s aunt, I believe you said.”
Charles, she noticed, frowned at the question.
Mamma’s own smile tightened. “Yes, still in Scotland.”
“Seems a pity. Such a lovely girl. Sad that she should waste her bloom as a companion to an old woman. And one you never liked, as I recall.”
“Yes. A pity.”
“I think it was very kind of Claire to go,” Georgie said. “Though I miss her terribly. We all do.”
Again the family members glanced awkwardly at one another. Mrs. Parker observed them with interest.
Charles cleared his throat. “Well, Mamma, perhaps it is time we take our leave. See how Papa is getting on after the baths.”
“You are right. We should not leave him on his own too long.”
She rose, and the other ladies did as well, followed by Charles. Together they walked into the hall.
They gathered near the door, exchanging polite thank-yous for the call and hospitality while they waited for Mr. Gwilt to retrieve their coats and hats.
———
As Emily stood there with the others, James Thomson came down the stairs.
Mrs. Parker looked up and paused, recognition widening her eyes. “Mr. Thomson?”
“Ah. Mrs. Parker. I am happy to see you again.”
“And I you. Don’t tell me you are one of the Duke of Kent’s officials?”
With a quick glance at Emily, he replied, “I ... yes, I am.”
“Well done. Charles does not often see his schoolfellows. What a lovely surprise. You two will have to catch up while we’re here. Talk of old times.” She turned to the others and explained, “These two were at university together.”
Turning back to Mr. Thomson, she asked, “And how are your parents? In good health, I trust?”
“I believe so. I saw my mother a few months ago. She came to Town to visit me while their Royal Highnesses resided at Kensington Palace. We had dinner at her hotel and a good long talk. She seemed quite well.”
“Excellent. And your father?”
