Page 45 of Devoted to the Duke (The St. Clairs 1)

“I do. First, I wanted to confirm that Leah and I still have a dowry. I will be participating intonevents this Season and, if the opportunity arises, I may choose to wed.”

His eyes widened. “Lord Statham is scarcely in his grave, my lady. Surely, you wish to mourn your father.”

Catherine’s gaze bored into him. “I will mourn Papa’s passing until the day I die. The new earl thinks it best, though, for me to... move on.”

Larson’s eyes narrowed. “I see. No further explanation is needed. Having met the new Lord Statham, I quite understand.”

“I have a few questions. Can I access any of my dowry in order to have a new wardrobe made up? In five years of country living, I had no real need of new clothes. Under the circumstances, I must update my attire.”

“I’m afraid that’s not possible. The dowry can only be part of the marriage contracts and is to go to your future husband and his family.”

Disappointment filled her. She hated wasting any of her writing money on frivolous clothes.

“So I take it to mean that if I do not marry, I cannot have access to the funds?”

The solicitor frowned. “There is a clause that if you do not wed, you would be able to draw from the funds. You would have to turn thirty before that could occur.”

Catherine sighed. Another blow. “What about the possibility of merging my dowry with Leah’s? In case no gentleman offers for me, I thought to put the two together. It would make Leah a most attractive candidate.”

“I’m afraid that’s not possible,” he apologized. “It’s either wed yourself or wait another seven years to claim the funds.”

She smoothed her skirt. Rising, she said, “You’ve been most helpful, Mr. Larson.”

He came to his feet, pity for her on his face. “I wish I had better news for you, Lady Catherine.”

“I’ll make the best of the situation. Thank you.”

She rang for Jervis, who saw her visitor out. The pressure to marry was even greater than before. If she didn’t, not only would Statham toss them onto the streets, but he would reveal the circumstances of their births. For Leah’s sake, that must never happen.

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