Page 58 of A Duchess to Fight For
“I will. Good. Something’s moving.”
Hobart barked out a laugh. “You sound like Frederick. ‘ Nothing’s happening. This is going too slow,’ and more. Every day.”
Percy rose. “Hobart, thank you for looking into Stafford for me. I hope we can do this without Louisa knowing you know.”
“No problem. Here,” Hobart put parchment and the quill in front of Percy, “write down his full name and London address.”
*****
Louisa stood and curtsied. “Lord Daniels.”
Stafford bowed to Amelia and Louisa. “Your Grace, Lady Louisa.”
Louisa directed him with her hand. “Please sit. Tea?”
He nodded. “Thank you.”
Amelia said, “We haven’t had the pleasure of a visit, Lord Daniels.”
Stafford said, “Yes, well, I was called out of town for a few days. Business on the estate.”
Louisa said, “And how is your family there? Do all members of your family live in the country?”
“No. My brother lives in France.”
Louisa remained silent hoping it would cause Stafford to fill in the empty space with more information of his family. It didn’t.
“Tell me, Lady Louisa, are you well now? I’ve been gone over a week, and when I tried to visit last, you were on the third day of a migraine, I believe.”
“Yes, My Lord, it was the worst I’ve ever had. Lying in bed that long is one trial but having to lay still and in the dark is another. I wouldn’t recommend the experience.”
“Well, I’m glad you are recovered. I was wondering if you feel up to a carriage ride tomorrow. You and your maid, of course. The weather has been fine, and if it continues, I may take out the barouche.”
Louisa smiled. “That sounds wonderful. Would you mind terribly if I gave you an answer tomorrow? My health seems to be day-to-day lately.”
Stafford nodded. “Not at all. Not at all.”
“Did you check in on your horses during your trip home?”
Stafford furrowed his brow. “I beg your pardon?”
“Your horses. I remember you invited my family to come see a foal. You said you would let us know when it’s close to being born.”
“I’m sorry. I did. The pregnancy did not make it past six months, unfortunately.”
Louisa frowned. “I’m sorry to hear that. Is the mother fine?”
Stafford nodded. “She is.”
Stafford stood and bowed to the ladies. “I must go. I’ll be back tomorrow. The barouche will fit the three of us comfortably should the weather cooperate.”
He bowed again and left the parlour.
Louisa looked at Amelia. “His business must be occupying his mind. I hope it’s not serious.”
Amelia nodded. “Yes, I thought so too. Will you go on the carriage ride tomorrow?”
Louisa sighed, “I’m not sure. The barouche might be tight for three, but it would be more pleasant than a carriage ride. I’ll decide tomorrow.”
