Page 104 of The Seaside Homecoming
“Well, what does he say?”
Mr. Craven opened his mouth to reply, then with a glance at Sarah, shut it again. “Let’s discuss it after dinner, shall we? We don’t want our roast beef and Yorkshire puddings to grow cold. After all, Mr. Hornbeam here says they go down a treat.”
Persephone pouted. “But I want to know if he’s coming.”
So did Sarah.
“Patience, sister.”
Miss Craven no doubt hoped the man had changed his mind about coming to Sidmouth. Sarah sincerely hoped he had not.
Now resolved, Sarah faced Mrs. Harding and announced, “It is not our custom to serve dinner to guests on Saturday and Sunday evenings. We made an exception in your case because of our mutual acquaintance with Charles Parker. However, after tonight, we shall resume our usual schedule. Thank you for understanding.” She forced a smile despite Mrs. Harding’s frown.
Sarah turned back to the sideboard feeling satisfied. She had not made the decision out of spite but had put her family’s comfort ahead of pleasing these particular guests, who, she guessed, would not be pleased in any case.
“Perfectly understandable,” Mr. Hornbeam replied. “Family and rest are important, and the hotels in town serve excellent food as well.”
Sarah thanked him and made sure he received the best cut of roast beef.
24
Public Subscription Rooms, Sidmouth. John Marsh has the honour of respectfully announcing to the Nobility and Gentry ... a Concert of Vocal & Instrumental Music.
—Advertisement,Exeter Flying Post
Emily and Viola visited Claire again on Sunday afternoon to ask her to accompany them to a concert in town the following night.
Emily added, “Although I should mention Mr. Craven and his sisters might be there. I don’t believe you’ve met them, but you have a ... mutual acquaintance in a certain lord. And they seem rather curious about you.”
“No, I don’t know them. How odd. Thank you for inviting me, but I had better stay here.”
“It would not have to spoil the concert,” Viola said. “Just meet them and move on.”
“It’s not only that,” Claire said. “I should not abandon my duties here so soon after spending the evening at Westmount.”
“But I know you would like the music,” Viola insisted, “and we would very much like your company.”
Claire was about to decline again when Mr. Hammond wandered into the morning room.
“Mr. Hammond, please convince her,” Emily pleaded. “Claire loves music. Not as much as Vi does, but a great deal. And she has had so little enjoyment the last few years.”
“What are we talking about?” he asked.
Emily raised an advertisement cut from theExeter Flying Post.“There’s to be a ‘concert of vocal and instrumental music’ tomorrow night, but Claire does not think she should leave the boarding house to join us.”
“Indeed she should. I thoroughly agree. I will be here and will happily watch over things.”
“Don’t you wish to attend yourself?” Claire asked.
“Me? Music?” He shuddered theatrically. “Abhor the vile stuff.” He winked, then added, “I have work to do and can easily accomplish it down here. Please do go, Miss Summers. You have been working hard, and I appreciate your efforts. Broadbridge’s is already a better and more hospitable place, thanks to you.”
Satisfaction warmed Claire, and Viola beamed.
“See? You must go now! The major and I shall collect you in our carriage.”
“Very well, I am outnumbered. Thank you all. I shall no doubt enjoy it.”
Mr. Hammond sat at the desk while Claire walked her sisters out. In the hall, Emily stepped close and lowered her voice. “I do think it will be a pleasant evening, despite the possibility of having to endure that man’s friends.”
