Page 38 of Suddenly a (The St. Clairs 5)

“Let me hold your reticule,” Rachel said and took it.

He saw Lady Mia swallow nervously and stepped toward her.

“Just explain it to me as you did in the stables that day,” he said quietly. “You’ll do well.”

She nodded, holding her notebook close. “To begin, this concept goes back many centuries in some form or fashion. About two hundred years ago, it was developed as small steam jacks. During the last century, the problem arose on how to extract water from deep coal mines. The power of steam allowed that water to be pumped to the surface. That brought the potential power of steam to come to light.”

He noticed she began to relax and knew it was because she spoke on a topic she was comfortable discussing.

“It’s basically the condensation of water vapor that creates a vacuum. Water is boiled in one tank until it changes to vapor and is collected in a second tank.”

“Ah, that’s where the vacuum comes in,” Alex said.

“Yes, my lord, that’s correct. The vacuum produces energy, which is how the water was pumped from the coal mines. Several problems arose, though, causing explosions. That’s when Mr. James Watt’s innovative design changed matters. He developed a low-pressure engine cylinder that included heat insulation and a separate condenser, along with an apparatus for pumping out condensed water.”

Hudson saw people nodding as she went on to talk about the work of Ivan Polzuno, a Russian who invented the first two-cylinder steam engine, and then more about James Watt, who improved the steam engine that became used in ships. She then explained Richard Trevithick’s high-pressure engine, which was adapted to Cornish boilers less than two decades ago.

“Is this high-pressured engine what the Stockton and Darlington Railway is using?” Jeremy asked.

Though she kept her language simple, Hudson still found himself lost as Lady Mia discussed stationary engines and the revolutions per minute they produced, though he got even more lost in her explanation of how a high-pressured engine was supported by large cylindrical tanks filled with heated water, which produced the steam to power something.

Several times, she pointed at various components on the engine she’d devised and showed the group the subtle differences that she thought would save energy and produce more steam—which meant more power. She opened her notebook and referred to several illustrations within it, showing these to everyone and taking questions. By now, she was relaxed and confident, in her element, showing her knowledge and creativity.

“Does anyone else have a question?” she asked politely.

Hudson scanned the crowd. “No, I think you’ve answered all our questions, Lady Mia.”

Spontaneous applause broke out. Her cheeks turned beet red. She turned away, closing her notebook and tossing the drape over the machinery again. As she took a seat, enthusiastic talk began as they discussed the possibilities of her apparatus and various routes in which they could locate their railway.

“We’ll need to decide soon on the first line’s direction,” he said. “It will mean purchasing a great deal of property along the way.”

“Just think how easy and fast it will be to transport goods and people by railway,” Rachel said. “No more being tossed about in a carriage. I cannot tell you how uncomfortable that is when you are with child.”

Luke laughed heartily. “You don’t have to enlighten me. Caroline has complained mightily about it.”

“If you didn’t have so many children, she wouldn’t have to complain so much,” his sister retorted. “If men had to carry even a single baby to term, they would have much more respect for their wives.”

Luke’s eyes sparked, ready for a fight. “If I could—”

“Enough, you two,” Jeremy said. “You may spar with each other once our guests leave.” He turned to Lady Mia. “You are very creative, my lady. I feel fortunate that my brother discovered you and we have the chance to work with you on this engine. I hope it’s possible that we might be able to purchase the rights to other inventions of your making.”

Jeremy looked at the group. “Thank you all for coming today. I know you are happy to have received the information about the investment you’re making.”

Hudson watched as everyone began saying goodbye to Lady Mia and Lord Trentham. Jeremy moved to his elbow and quietly said, “I’m going to ask Lady Mia and her uncle to stay for tea. It’s time for some of the rest of the family to meet her. I’ve already asked Anthony to stay. He’s gone downstairs to find Catherine and Laurel and alert them.”

“What do you think of her?” he asked.

“I’ll tell you after tea,” his brother said and winked at him.

Luke came to Hudson and said, “I’ve got to go to Evie’s and collect some ledgers for Caroline to look over. I’m heading straight to Fairhaven after that.” He leaned in. “I like her, Hudson. She’s bright and personable. You better snatch her up before the Season starts because you’ll have a line of suitors to knock away if you don’t.”

Luke gave him a bear hug and left. Hudson saw Rachel and Lady Mia speaking animatedly while Lord Trentham looked on. Evan strolled to Hudson.

“I don’t think my Rachel can contain herself. She’s mad for Lady Mia. I know Jeremy is trying to get a word in edgewise so he can invite them to stay for tea. Shall I go claim my gorgeous wife? Perhaps silence her with a lengthy kiss?”

“Would you?” Hudson joked. “When Rachel is wound up, I don’t think anything can keep her quiet. Even a kiss.”

His brother-in-law manage to pull Rachel away and out the door, where Hudson assumed Evan managed to get in a kiss. It allowed Jeremy to extend an invitation to tea. Lord Trentham accepted on their behalf and those remaining made their way down the hall to where Catherine, Laurel, and Anthony waited.

Hudson introduced his sister and sister-in-law and everyone seated themselves as two maids rolled in the tea carts. They spent a pleasant hour together. Lord Trentham told some amusing stories about serving in various countries. Catherine and Laurel shared the latest happenings at the orphanage and Linfield School. Rachel invited Lady Mia for tea the following day in order to share drawings of her designs. He observed how natural and relaxed the conversation seemed. How Lady Mia fit in with his family with ease. It told him he was making the right decision.

The only thing left was to convince the reluctant bride-to-be to marry him.

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