English Rose

by Nina Ernstsen

A servant in dark blue livery descended the stairs in a quick pace and let his eyes wander over the crowded hall.

“What is it, Thomson? You have a very grave face,” Lord Alleston remarked as he passed the man.

“Excuse me, your lordship, but it is most important that I find Mr Edwards, sir.” The worried look in the servant's eyes made Alleston frown.

“Why?”

“ I am to convey a message from Mrs Edwards that the young master’s cough has grown worse.”

At the mentioning of his nephew his lordship took action.

“I believe that I saw him in the refreshments room. Come!” The little man had to hurry to not loose his lordship’s tall figure amongst the many ball gowned guests.

“Edwards!” Lord Alleston called out, when he spotted his brother-in-law.

“What is it, Alleston?”

“Thomson brings you a message from Juliet.”

“Yes, sir. Mrs Edwards requests that the doctor be sent for. Master John's cough is very bad.” “Oh dear,” Mr Edwards said as much to himself as to his brother-in-law. “I hope that you will make my apologies to my guests,” he said, remembering his duties. “And I fear that I must impose on you to take my place as host.”

“Of course man, off with you.” Lord Alleston said.

“What, has Edwards deserted us?” Lord Dumbel asked Alleston.

“Yes I am afraid so,” Lord Alleston replied, “their son has fallen ill.”

“Oh dear, I hope it is nothing serious,” Lady Dumbel said.

“I am afraid I cannot tell you. But I do know that it has been an age since you have last favoured me with a dance, milady.”

“Oh, come now, milord, why waste your time with an old thing like me, when some of the finest young debutants of the season are dying to dance with you?”

“My dear lady Dumbel, not even the most enchanting debutant could hold a candle to your beauty.”

“Oh, you are a tease, and I am not falling for it. Come and let me introduce you to Lady Willow’s daughter.” She placed her hand on Alleston’s arm and let him escort her to the ballroom.

Every mother who knows the bliss of motherhood, also knows of the unspoken horrors it holds, the fear for ones child. And Juliet Edwards knew this fear all too well. She was the mother of a very feeble son who suffered from terrible cough attacks at night. She had been the most beautiful debutant of her season, but had failed to make an advantageous marriage. She was from a very fine family and was considered to have married beneath her. But since the gentleman in speaking was of perhaps not a grand family, it was still a very much liked and well respected family, and it had been a love match if ever there was one, so it was accepted. Also, it was whispered, she was very stubborn so her mother was relived to have married her of.

Being an affectionate mother, Juliet did not like leaving her children for too long, but was determined to be there to comfort them, and to watch over her son.

Her husband, who loved and worshiped her, and did not want her to be derived of any amusement, often threw radiant balls and riots at their mansion, so that his wife could leave the party and return again as she saw fit.

A frequent and much anticipated guest at these parties was the lady’s brother Lord Justin Alleston. Lord Alleston was considered to be a prize catch if one could hold him. He had yet to know what falling in love meant, though he was past his 30^th year. He did not mind engaging in good natured flirtation, but to him it was never more than a pleasant pastime. And though he might be Lady Alleston’s oldest son, he was not her only son, she had two more still at Oxford. So there was no fear of the name Alleston dying out, and with her only daughter married, she had decided to give the marriage market a rest for a while, and do what she enjoyed the most, being adored by foreign nobility. So her ladyship was mostly to be found on the continent.

When Lord Alleston a few days later called at the Edwards residence, he found his sister packing.

“Going somewhere, my dear?”

“Justin!” She came to him and let him kiss her cheek. “My husband tells me that you were of great help when John fell ill. I am most grateful.”

“It was nothing, I quite enjoyed myself.”

“Oh, you are a silly boy.”

“At heart yes, I believe I am. But to return to my question, are you going somewhere?”

“Come, let’s find something to drink and some sweetmeats. I am famished. Yes, we are going somewhere,” she said as they entered her parlour. “Philip is taking us to our country house. Some refreshments, please,” she said to the servant who answered the bell.

“Had enough of London?”

“Yes, I believe I have. I fear that the town air is making John worse, and a quiet life in the country will do him good. And Ofelia is much to young to be in town anyway. I am most determined to go and I do not know when we shall return. Oh, you must come and spend the summer with us, Justin, I fear it shall be dreadfully dull if I’m left all to myself.”

“Aren’t you afraid that you shall be lonely out there in the country?” Justin asked his sister.

“I must admit I was, but then my dear Philip found me a companion. It turns out that the cleric has a daughter who keeps house for him. She and Philip actually were very good friends when they were children. She has agreed to come and stay with us, to keep me company.”

“You and the clergyman’s daughter?”

“Now why do you make that sound so absurd? Philip says that she is a sweet girl with much sense, and that he thinks that she will make me a good friend.”

“In that case I will come and visit you.”

* * *

Summershill looked the same as always. Though many generations had altered and redone it as they saw fit, it never changed. It still had the beauty and warmth that it did when it was built. And no matter in what style it was decorated or what gardener tended to the park, it would all ways give you the feeling of coming home.

“Hello, Mrs Brown. I trust I find you in good health,” Mr Edwards greeted the housekeeper.

“You know me, sir, The good Lord gives me no reason to complain. Well, hello, my lovies!” She scooped up John and Ofelia in a gigantic hug, and pressed them against her ample bosom. “My, how you have grown! Mr Brown and I have missed you so very much.” The children cooed and giggled.

“Come, John, let's go and see Schmidt at the stables about that pony I promised you,”

John let out a cry of joy, escaped Mrs Brown’s embrace and left with his father in search of this magnificent present. It seemed as if he was doing better already, Juliet thought, and allowed herself to indulge in the feeling for just a bit, then gathered her senses about her again and turned to Mrs Brown.

“Now, Mrs Brown, let us get settled in.”

And off they went. Mrs Brown still with Ofelia in her arms and chatting away all the latest gossip of the village.

Later in the evening, when the children left in care of their nannies, and all the arrangements where taken care of, Mr Edwards went for a walk around the grounds with his wife at his arm.

“I forget how peaceful it is here.” Juliet said. Phillip looked at his wife’s profile and marvelled at her beauty.

“I have arranged for Miss Plymouth to come and see you in a couple of days' time,” he said. Juliet stopped walking and turned to face him.

“I worry, Phillip. Will I like her? Will she like me?”

Phillip drew his wife into his arms.

“She is so very much like you, headstrong, independent, I care for you both though I have never been able to understand either of you.” Juliet giggled. “And how anyone can know you and not immediately fall in love with you, I will never understand.” He said kissing her forehead. “Plus you both like me,”

“And for that she will be my bosom friend,” Juliet said, stood on her toes and allowed herself to be kissed.

On Juliet’s first meeting with her new companion a lot of pleasantries were exchanged, the weather was thoroughly discussed as well as the poor king’s health. Miss Regina Plymouth was an independent woman of 24 years, with a pleasant smile and friendly eyes. Their conversation had not succeeded in breaking the ice between them and both women were wondering if this arrangement would work, when the door to the drawing room opened and John and Ofelia entered. When their mother beckoned them to meet Miss Plymouth, John did his very best and made a sweet bow, but Ofelia hid in her mother's skirt. Regina smiled at her and got a mischievous look in her eyes that surprised Juliet, who had gotten the impression that Miss Plymouth was a bit of a bore.

“How do you do, John?” she said and shook hands with him, which made the young boy feel very tall. “ I was wondering if you could help me. I seem to have misplaced my mouse.”

“Your mouse?” John looked at her with wide eyes, and Ofelia’s face came out from the folds in her mother’s dress.

“Yes, he is a mischievous one, my mouse is. Maybe you could help me find him?”

“How?” John asked remembering his nurse when she thought she saw a mouse.

“I need a handkerchief. May I borrow yours?”

The children’s nurse was a thorough woman, so it was possible for John to produce a fairly clean handkerchief from his pocket .

“How will you catch a mouse with a handkerchief?” John asked. Ofelia tried to look over her brother’s shoulders without letting go of her mother.

“Now, I did not say that I would catch him, did I?” her hands worked with the handkerchief. “I said that I would find him.”

Ofelia had now come to stand by John.

“And here he is!” The handkerchief had been transformed into a little mouse with ears and a tail. When Miss Plymouth made the cloth mouse jump, the children shrieked with laughter and tried to catch it.

When Philip came to see how the interview was going he found his wife and her new companion laughing together as close friends. Ofelia was sitting on Regina’s lap playing with her necklace and John came running up to show his father the handkerchief mouse.

“It seems that you have been welcomed to the bosom of our family, Regina,” he said.

When Juliet saw the intimate smile that her husband sent her new friend, she wondered if she should be jealous, but when he bent down to kiss her cheek and she saw the love in his eyes, that always was there, she decided that she was a fool and rejoiced in her new friend.

Juliet owned a pheaton, and often drove it round London, and she had brought it with her to Summershill. Every morning she and Regina enjoyed the freedom that a drive gave them. In the village it was accepted that a woman handled her own horse, especially if that woman was of noble birth, but it was not considered comme il faut for a lady to drive fast. This the two women respected and they waited till they were well hidden on the other side of the woods, before Juliet made use of her whip. On one of these outings the speed made Juliet’s bonnet fly off, and since it was a bonnet that she liked very much, they decided to search for it. So they tied the horse to a tree and went in search of it.

“Regina, there is something I need to ask you,” Juliet had stopped and faced her friend.

“Yes?”

“I have tried to make myself believe that I did not need the answer, but silly as I may be, I have not succeeded in convincing myself.”

“You have me all worried, Juliet. Please, know that you may ask me anything.”

“Have you and Phillip ever been in love?”

Regina’s first instinct was to laugh, but she could see that her friend was sincere.

“No, Juliet, we never were. There was some talk amongst our parents of a mach, but though we deeply care for each other, Phillip and I would not have succeeded in making each other happy.”

Juliet took comfort in her friend's honesty.

“Thank you,” she said and resumed the search for her bonnet.

* * *

It was a whim that brought Lord Alleston to Summershill. The weather had grown warm and the city had started to smell. A gentleman in his club had spoken of the fresh country air, and Alleston had remembered his promise to visit his sister. That evening he wrote Juliet and a few days later he himself departed. Juliet was well accustomed with her brother's ways, and was in no way surprised that he arrived only the day after his letter informing her of his resolve to come to Summershill. She was happy to see him, and hoped that he would stay for some time.

After having greeted his sister, Lord Alleston went to the nursery in search of his nephew. John Edwards was a small boy of four years, who in spite of his rather frail constitution, was very headstrong and engaging and his lordship was very fond of him.

He found him on the floor of the nursery laying on his stomach surrounded by his toy solders. Beside him, also on her stomach was a young woman of some twenty odd years. She was dressed in a simple summer gown and around her short brown curls was wrapped a pale blue scarf. They were so absorbed in their discussion that they did not notice him.

“You are a silly girl!” the young master said in a high voice.

“Now, John, where are your manners?” Alleston asked making his presence known.

“Uncle Justin!” the boy cried and threw himself in his uncle's arms. The young woman coloured slightly and did her best to rise with grace.

“Allow me to assist you, madam,” his Lordship came to her rescue and helped her up.

“Thank you. sir. I must warn you that you have caught us in the middle of a battle,” she said and indicated the soldiers with a wave of her hand.

“Yes, and she is a girl and doesn’t know a thing about horses.” John raised his voice.

“Hence the name calling,” his lordship looked at his nephew with reproach.

“ I fear he is right though, my knowledge of horses is very limited.”

“Still, that is no excuse to forget one's manners. You will apologize at once, boy.

The little boy looked at his feet.

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s quite all right, John.” She smiled.

“But uncle Justin knows an awful lot about horses, don’t you, uncle Justin?”

“I believe I can tell the difference between the head and the tail.”

Lord Alleston was pulled down on the floor to inspect the cavalry. The woman seated herself on the floor once again, but this time in a more dignified manner.

After a most excellent battle the nurse appeared and bore John of to bed. Left alone Alleston looked down on the now abandoned soldiers.

“I never quite know what to do with myself, when the boy leaves me in the middle of a game. Do I jump up and become an adult again, or do I stay and play for I am actually enjoying myself.”

The woman laughed.

“If you would become a gentleman and help me up once again I shall be most grateful."

“Oh yes, of course. At once!”

Gallantly he helped her up, but did not let go of her hand.

“Since there is no one here to make the introductions, I hope that you will not find me imprudent if I introduce myself.”

“Please do. After all, we are comrades in arms.”

She made him smile as he bent down to kiss her hand.

“Lord Alleston at you service, Madam.”

“Regina Plymouth.”

“Then you must be my sister companion.”

“Indeed I am.”

“I hope you do not find her too much of a bore,” he said with mock sincerity.

“It is quite tolerable I assure you,” she laughed.

“May I escort you downstairs?” he asked and offered her his arm, which she accepted.

* *

Although Lord Alleston found the social life of the country somewhat less versatile than in London, it was not without it’s amusements. And one of these was the Newcomes, a married couple in their 50ties, who enjoyed the company of younger people. So Mr. and Mrs Edwards had to endure the occasional visit. And one of these trying events took place while Alleston was at Summershill. The Newcomes rarely sent word of their coming, but merely happened upon people.

Having run out of conversational topic, Juliet suggested that they play cards, a pastime she knew that the Newcomes where in favour of. After only a few hands Lord Alleston excused himself and left the card party to go in search of some more agreeable company. He found her in the flower garden.

“Lord Alleston,” she smiled when she saw him. “Not playing cards?”

“In need of some fresh air. What is your excuse?”

“I cheat.”

“You do not,” he said laughing, “but I swear I could not be civil in that man's company any more.”

“No, Mr Newcomes is somewhat trying.”

“If only he would stop with the metaphors, and express himself plainly; This cake is like newly spun silk, this weather is like young doves, your smile, dear Mrs Edwards, is like a field full of poppies.” His lordship shuddered.

“For me it was Mrs Newcomes’ lap dog. It kept staring at me.”

“Is that a dog? I thought it was a rat.”

Regina let out an involuntary giggle. Alleston sat down on the park bench beside her and gazed out over the flowerbeds.

“I once had a suitor compare me to a flower,” Regina said after a little silence.

“Did you now? What flower was that?”

“That was the worst part of it, he compared me to an English rose.”

“Oh no, he didn’t,”

“He did! I must admit that I was fairly offended. I mean if that was as high as his passion drove him, then he could not have been very much in love with me.”

“The poor fellow. I hope you didn’t crush him.”

“No, as far as I remember I was most civil to him.”

His lordship laughed.

“ What ever happened to him?”

“He went off to marriage a girl he actually loved.”

“Good for him. Have you had any more suitors compare you to other flowers?”

“No, I believe he was the only one. And for that I am very grateful.”

“Well, look here,” his lordship got up and tried to pick a bright red rose from the rosebush in front of them, only succeeding in pricking himself. “Auw!” He said in surprise.

“Careful, they have thorns you know,” Regina said mocking him.

“Maybe that is why your beau felt that the comparison would apply. “ Alleston said sucking his bleeding finger. “And since I deeply sympathise with the fellow I shall compare you to the flower that has just wounded me.”

“Oh, please don’t,”

“No, my dear lady, it is too late, you shall now be known as Rose.”

“THERE YOU ARE!” Juliet’s voice was heard over the flower garden. “It was horrible of you to leave us alone with that horrid old couple, they have only just left.”

“My dear sister, we had to leave,” her brother retorted. “There would have been a scandal if we had stayed, you see,” he lowered his voice to a whisper. ”Miss Plymouth cheats.”

“She does not,” Juliet hissed.

“It’s true, she does,” Phillip said with a grave face.

“Oh, you are silly, the lot of you! Come, let us dine.”

* *

When Lord Alleston descended the stairs one morning he was greeted by two eager children.

"We're going on a picnic!!" They shouted. "Come come come!!"

"Children," their mother said in a firm voice. "Let your uncle have some peace."

"Hello, Juliet," Alleston said, "maybe you could inform me what it is that the children are trying to tell."

"We are going on a picnic!" John said with determination.

"A picnic, you say?"

"Please join us, uncle Justin, it will be ever so much fun," John said pulling at his uncle's coat tails.

"Please." His little sister mimicked.

"All right, I will, if only to make you stop ruining my beautiful coat."

"Oh, Justin, you are vain." Juliet said laughing at him.

"Indeed I am. But I will have you know that my stunningly good looks do not just happen by accident, but require a lot of hard work."

Just then Regina appeared with a food basket over her arm.

"Ready to go?" she asked.

"Uncle Justin's coming! Uncle Justin's coming!" shouted the children running towards her.

"Is he? What a wonderful treat." She sent him a smile which he returned.

The children’s small legs took them as far as the meadow at the far end of the garden, where all the wild flowers where in full bloom. A refreshing wind made the warm sun agreeable, and the cook had taken great care in filling the basket for her mistress, all-in-all it was a feast that Regina could lay out before them. A sudden wind got hold of the blue scarf Regina wore around her hair.

“Oh no,” she said, but made no attempt to catch it, fearing that the wind all ready had too firm a hold on it. But Alleston jumped to his feet and in his pursuit of the scarf made a very comical figure, rendering the two ladies helpless with laugher. In the end he did succeed in retrieving the scarf, and returned accompanied by the children’s salutation.

“Thank you so much, dear sir,” Regina said drying a tear from the corner of her eye, “You need not have troubled yourself, it is only a scarf.”

“Yes,” he said, kneeling down in front of her, “but a very pretty scarf,” he tied it around her hair, “and it becomes you so well,” He smiled into her eyes, she received the compliment with slightly coloured cheeks.

When it was time to return to the house, Juliet walked ahead with a happy child by each hand, allowing Alleston to offer Regina the arm not occupied by the now empty basket.

“Juliet tells me that you and Edwards have known each other since childhood.”

“Yes, our mothers were lifelong friends. So Philip and I practically grew up together.”

“How come you never made a match of it.”

“Well, our mothers did push for it as much as they could, but I was never in love with him, nor was he in love with me.”

“I find that very hard to believe.”

“What? Have you so high an opinion of your brother-in-law that you cannot imagine any woman immune to his charms?”

“No, what I find hard to believe is that he – any man – could be close to you and not fall desperately in love with you.”

“Why, milord, are you trying to beguile me into flirtation?”

“Am I succeeding?”

“I fear that you shall, for on a day such as this I find myself very beguilable.”

Every Sunday, they attended services at the village church where the honourable rev. Reginald Plymouth gave sermons. Rev. Plymouth was a very devoted clergyman, who tried to do as much good he could with as little effort as possible. He spoke his mind, but since he was of a pleasant disposition, he rarely offended anyone. He was a very large man of height and stature, and had a voice that was meant for doomsday sermons, but preferred to give sermons on topics such as love thy neighbour, and the prodigal son or anything else that meant he could talk about the good Lord’s love for his children. Plus he liked giving very short sermons. And for this he was very much liked. After services Regina would spend the rest of the day with her father.

On this particular Sunday the Edwards party had been invited to have lunch at the rectory. On the narrow road up to the rectory Lord Alleston found himself beside the vicar.

“How are you enjoying your stay at Summershill, milord?” Plymouth asked.

“Very much, actually!”

The vicar let out a great laugh: “You sound very surprised.”

“Well, I must own that I am a bit. I had only thought to stay for a couple of weeks, but it has now been five and I am still here. You see, I do most things on a whim. I fear that being the heir to a grand name, I was very much indulged as a child, and therefore learned that I might do as I pleased.”

“But the whim to leave Summershill has not yet come to you, I take it?”

“No sir, it has not.”

“Well, I cannot blame you, milord, I consider our part of the country to be one of the most peaceful. And the company you keep is stimulating as well. I was very pleased that young Edwards found himself such an agreeable spouse. And then there is my daughter, who of course is very pleasing company.”

“I do not believe that I have ever encounter a lady quite like her. How you have managed to part with her is quite incomprehensible.”

“To tell you the truth I was quite glad to be rid of her.” The vicar whispered.

“I beg your pardon?” his lordship looked quite taken aback.

“Well, you see…when her dear mother died, bless her soul, Regina took over the keeping of the house. And a very fine job of it she did, but she started to change things. She would not tidy up my study as her mother had done, but told me that I must do it myself. She decided that my diet was not what was best for me and told the cook to prepare different meals for me. And that did not sit too well with me. Now she is gone, and my sister has come to keep house for me instead. A sweet thing, widow, who understands that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. So she lets me live my life the way I prefer.” The vicar spoke as if he had forgotten who he was addressing. “But I do love her, my precious Regina.”

By this time they had reached the rectory and the gentlemen’s private conversation came to an end.

* * *

Mr Edwards was an early riser and enjoyed spending his mornings in solitude, and was therefore about his daily business before any one else came down. Mrs Edwards preferred her breakfast in bed, and spent most of the morning there. So Alleston and Regina often partook their breakfast in each other's company.

“Good morning, my Rose, I hope you slept well.”

“Good morning, milord, I did indeed, thank you, and you?”

“I always sleep well, I have yet to discover the disturbance that can arouse me from my slumber, beside the morning sun.”

“In that case, it is fortunate that your windows face west.”

“Ah, in that matter my sister is very attentive, she knows of my weakness, and would never expect me to sleep in an eastern room.” He poured himself a cup of coffee. “So what are your plans for the day, my Rose? What adventures awaits you?”

“None today, I fear. Normally Juliet and I drive out in her phaeton, but she complained of a sore back yesterday, so I fear that I shall have to go without.”

“Nonsense, I will take you for a drive, if you can forebear with my company.”

“Well, that all depends, are you any good with a whip?”

“I am a member of the Four horses club.”

“In that case I shall count it as an adventure to drive out with you.”

Lord Alleston was an excellent horseman and though the horses and vehicle were borrowed, Regina could detect no insecurity in the way he handled them.

“From what I understand, you grew up here.” His lordship said.

“I have never lived anywhere else,” she replied.

“In that case you know your way round much better then I, so you may decide what road we will take.”

“Have you ever visited Lover’s Nest?”

His lordship held back the remark that was on his lips and said with a smile, “No, I don’t believe that I have.”

She ignored that unspoken quip and signalled for him to turn down a small road.

“Is it quite proper for you to visit Lover’s Nest in my company?” he teased her. Her eyes laughed but she kept her mouth firm.

“Lover’s Nest is an old landmark. It is a tall tree where doves make their nests every spring and doves mate for life.”

“I see, unlike people.”

“That depends on the persons.”

They fell silent.

Lover’s Nest was a large sentinel tree that lay in a secluded spot removed from the road, granting the visitors a little privacy.

“This is indeed a beautiful spot. I am very glad you decided for it.”

“Despite the mockery.”

“A little bantering is essential in any friendship, my dear Rose.” He looked around. “You know, I believe that your father is right. This must be the most peaceful part of England. Out here London seems so far away. I shall be quite reluctant to leave this place.”

“Then why leave? Though I am sure that your company is a burden, it seems to me that your sister bears it.” Regina smiled, and his lordship couldn’t help but laugh.

“I see that you have mastered the bantering, my Rose.” He sat down beside her. “But alas, I have to return, urgent family affairs make it so.”

“I hope it is nothing serious.”

“Serious perhaps, but nothing out of the ordinary. Every summer my younger brother leaves the protected world of Oxford to go to Bath or some other summer resort and every year he gambles away more money than he has and ends up at the mercy of money lenders.”

“And every year you rescue him.” She finished for him.

“Yes, it has become something of a tradition. I had to return sooner or later, it has just been someone else’s whim that has decided.” He was silent for a while. “But I shall miss it here.”

“As shall you be.” She offered him a friendly smile.

“Thank you, my Rose.”

A few days later the Edwards household saw Lord Alleston off. Ofelia wept a bit, and John vowed that he would follow his uncle as soon as he could ride well enough. Alleston kissed his sister’s cheek, and miss Plymouth’s hand, and waved a cheery goodbye to them all. Regina watched his lordship's chaise disappear down the road and sighed in part resignation and part relief. ”And now I may forget him” she said to herself. Miss Plymouth had quickly recognised the depths of her feelings for Lord Alleston, and since she was well aware of the fact that one could not force oneself to fall out of love, she had accepted her feelings, but did not allow herself to ponder on it, for she was also very well aware of how removed they were in life. Therefore it did not matter whether or not his lordship was in love with her, for a Lord Alleston did not marry the cleric’s daughter.

“But it would indeed be very nice if he was,” she thought to herself. Thus seeing things in this light she had decided that there could be no harm in enjoying the summer, as long as she did not indulge in any silly fantasies of things that would never be. And then she would forget him when he left for London. But here Regina betrayed herself, for she could not forget his smile, nor would the sound of his laugh stop ringing in her ears. And every time she heard his name her heart jumped, but she was determined not to show it. Slowly and painfully she grew accustomed to his absence, and as the autumn colours filled the forest she felt more at ease. But Mrs Edwards felt the change in her friend’s mood. Her good-natured disposition had become more serious, and though she laughed and smiled often enough her heart was not always in it. Often Juliet would ask her something, and would not get an answer as if her thoughts were elsewhere. She guessed the cause of her friend’s mood, and silently cursed her brother, but said nothing.

* * *

"Where has everybody gone?" Edwards said as he happened upon Regina in the drawing room.

"The children are napping and Juliet has gone to lie down as well." Regina said as she put her book down.

"Oh! It is such a beautiful weather, would you like to accompany me for at walk?"

"I should love to."

They strolled down through the garden towards the lake.

"You know, Reggie, I'm so glad you agreed to come and stay with us." Edwards said and threw a stone into the lake.

"So am I, Phillip, so am I." She smiled at her old friend, who smiled back at her with the ease that can only come of a lifelong friendship. "When you wrote and asked for my help, I felt as if it was I who was being helped. I was so glad to be given something to do, that would get me out of my father’s house."

Phillip laughed.

"Yes, I imagine that you two where driving each other mad."

"Oh, It was horrible," she laughed back at him. "But I had not expected to find a new home as I have done. I do not know what I have done to earn your children’s affection, but I am so glad to have it, they are darling children. And I have grown to love Juliet very much." Phillip smiled at her but was silent for awhile.

"Do you think that Juliet is happy here?"

"Is that what has been bothering you? Do you not think that she is?"

"I don't know! I know that caring for our children is something she loves, but I fear that she misses the amusements that London has to offer."

"She has not said anything to me, but she often talks of town. But whether she misses it or not, I cannot tell you. Would you like to return?"

"No, not at all! I love it here in the country, you know I do. And the children are thriving."

"Yes, John is really very much better than when you came."

"Yes, yes he is, but I just so want Juliet to be happy."

"Have you talked to her about it?"

"I have tried, but she just brushes me of."

Regina was silent for a while.

"Maybe you could bring London to her." She said tentatively.

"What do you mean?"

"You have a big enough house, why not hold a Christmas party, a ball on Christmas eve?"

"That is a wonderful idea, Reggie! She will not only enjoy a ball, but love planning it. Thank you." He kissed her cheek, and ran up towards the house to tell his wife the plans for a Christmas ball. Regina watched him, she was very glad that he was so happy in his marriage, but in her heart she envied him a little. Her own future still seemed so uncertain. What would happen when the Edwards did go back to London? She could not stay Mrs Edwards’ companion forever. And she dreaded the thought of going back to keep house for her father.

"Maybe I should have Juliet find me a husband," she said with a sad little laugh, and went back to the house with a heavy heart.

* * *

Lord Alleston received a plea from his sister to join them at Summershill for Christmas.

“For Mama is in France and vows that she detests England in the winter, and James and Paul will not come, for they are invited to stay with friends, and I will not spend Christmas without family so you must come, Justin, for Philip’s old aunt is coming and if I am left alone with her for too long, I fear I shall kill her.”

“Well, then I’d better come,” he laughed to himself and let his mind wander back to the summer. He had truly enjoyed spending time with his nephew and for the company of miss Plymouth he would gladly endure an old aunt.

“Good evening, all,” Lord Alleston said in a jolly voice.

“Alleston!” His arrival caused activity amongst the guests at Summershill. He was the last of the Christmas visitors to arrive, and had been much anticipated. As people gathered around him his eyes searched for her and found her in the other end of the room by the fire. He smiled happily at her and she returned his smile graciously.

Regina was glad that so many people separated him from her, for at the sight of him her heart had started beating very fast and she needed time to compose herself. When he had worked his way through greeting everyone, he came over to her and kissed her hand.

“How do you do, Miss Plymouth?”

“Very well, thank you, milord. I hope you journeyed well.”

“Not at all, the roads here are in terrible shape, but I had the promise of good company to make it bearable.”

Not knowing how to respond to this, she merely smiled, and seated herself.

“How are you, Miss Plymouth? You look well.”

“I am well, thank you.”

“Not bored with my sister and her brats yet?”

“No,” she laughed. “I am still as content as you left me.” She blushed a little at this lie.

“Delighted to hear it.”

That night in the solitude of her room Regina admitted to herself that she was still very much in love with Lord Alleston. Time and absence had not succeeded in cooling her feelings for him. But since she had not heard from him these past months except through his sister, she was convinced that when he left for London there would be peace for her at Summershill once again. So if she could just get through this week without making a cake out of herself, all would be fine. She hoped.

A few agonising days later Regina sought comfort at the piano hoping to ease her mind by playing. She let herself be absorbed by the music and was lost to her surroundings. How long he had been standing there she could not say, but she felt him standing close behind her and stumbled through a passage.

“You are blocking the light, sir, I cannot see.” She said with a calm voice. He laughed softly.

“If I remember correctly then you know this piece by heart, but I will get out of the light,” he said and sat down next to her making her stumble yet again. “You, sweet rose, have been avoiding me,” he said in a low voice only audible to her. She now stumbled so profoundly that she had to remove her hands from the keys altogether.

“What do you mean?” she asked buying time to think of a decent reply, for she had indeed been avoiding him for days.

“I mean that every time I enter a room you leave.” When she did not reply he said; “Rose, please look at me.” She lifted her eyes to meet his steady gaze, “ Have you not missed me?” He asked smiling.

“I have,” she replied before she could stop herself. “No one here endures my bantering as you,” she hastened to add.

“Not many understand the need for bantering, you know.”

“So I have come to realise.” She resumed her play and he listened in silence for a while.

“I had hoped for some more time with you, Miss Plymouth, but I fear that the atmosphere is not for private conversations.”

“Many here have a higher claim on your company than I do.”

“At least I will get to dance with you. I am convinced that you are a graceful dancer.”

“Why, sir, are you trying to beguile me into flirtation?”

“Am I succeeding?” His smile was genuine and made her heart beat a little faster.

“No, today I shall not be beguiled, as you said, the atmosphere is not for it.”

“Very well then, I shall leave you to your music and look forward to tomorrow's treat.”

She watched him walk away not know whether to look forward to tomorrow with anticipation or anxiety.

The halls of Summershill were decorated with holly. On their way up the drive to the house the guests were greeted by lanterns hanging from every tree. Juliet was elegant and charming, the perfect hostess. Excited that her carefully planned details all came to life perfectly, very pleased with her new gown, and confident that her abigail had done a very good job with her hair.

From where she stood in the hall greeting her guests, she had a very good view of the stairway from which Regina made her entrance. She was gowned in a beautiful silk ball gown, a present from her father, a man who from lifelong experience appreciated the sentiments that women connected with their vanity. Around her hair was wrapped a silk scarf the same colour as her dress, trimmed with a beautiful lace that framed her face. Her eyes sparkled with the anticipations of her first grand ball.

Lord Alleston was standing with his sister when Regina descended.

“Ah, here is Regina!” Juliet said. “My, she does look lovely. She has been such a great help in planning this party.”

“Has she now!” Alleston said not taking his eyes of miss Plymouth.

Phillip came up to her.

“You look beautiful, Reggie,”

“Thank you, Phillip. You know, I feel beautiful.” She said smiling at him. He took her hand, placed it on his arm and escorted her over to his wife.

“My sweet Regina, I am quite positive that you shall outshine me tonight. You look absolutely breathtaking. Doesn’t she, Justin?”

“Miss Plymouth, I am humbled by your beauty,” lord Alleston said making his most splendid leg.

“My Lord, you are being absurd.” She brushed him off, but her eyes shone.

“For once I am absolutely serious. I am at a loss for words, you must grant me a dance!” The look in Lord Alleston’s eyes provided miss Plymouth with a cloud of air to walk upon and made her forget all resolutions not to dance with him. So happily she stood up with him for a set of the country dance and when the waltz came and he sought her, the sheer joy of feeling his hand on her back made her neglect all propriety.

After the waltz he escorted her to a chair.

“It is awfully hot in here,” he said misreading her flushed cheeks. “Let me fetch you something to drink.”

“Thank you,” she replied and was content to be left alone knowing that he would return to her side, when suddenly a conversation caught her ear.

“Yes, Lord Alleston is a wonderful dancer. He holds himself so well.” A female voice said.

“It is a pity that he has not yet married,” another answered.

“Yes, but I suppose that a man of his consequence cannot be to careful in choosing his wife.”

“Undoubtedly, she must be of good family and fortune.”

“Her dowry is not important, him being as well of as he is.”

“But family and connections she must have, one does not want a man such as Lord Alleston to marry beneath him.”

“Not like his sister.”

“And one hears things of his brothers. Gambling debts.”

“And that mother of his, gambolling around Europe in that style. It is appalling.”

“His wife must be depended upon to save some of the family honour, after all, the Allestons go a long way back.”

“She must be used to move in the first circles to be mistress of the Alleston manor, none of these country bells will do.”

It was a very odd sensation to have every argument one has ever thought of verbalized by someone else. Regina felt an overwhelming sadness, she had been a fool, she had allowed her heart to love and now to be broken. She saw Lord Alleston returning. She got up, she could not face him. Her eyes searched the room for an escape, when suddenly she felt a hand on her shoulder.

Phillip rarely danced and only waltzed with his wife, but seeing a friend in need of rescue he had made an exception. Regina took the steps mechanically and did not answer him when he spoke.

“Regina? Reggie! Are you quite all right?”

“Yes, yes, I am fine,” she said, her eyes wandering.

“No, you are not. You have a headache,” he told her. The dance had led them to the door. “Go, I’ll make your excuses.”

She looked at him and felt him squeeze her hands.

“Thank you,” she whispered and made her escape.

She maintained her dignity through the hall and up the main stairway, but when she came to the private part of the house and the darkness hid her, she hoisted up her skirt and ran, no longer fighting the tears. When she reached the sanctuary of her room, she locked the door behind her and let out one heartbreaking sob.

“You stupid, stupid girl,” she said, sliding down to the floor and here sobbing her hopeless tears. For she had lost her head and made a complete and utter fool of herself, and a heart broken by one’s own foolishness no tears can mend.

Alleston had been surprised in hearing from Edwards that Regina had retired with a headache. He could not help but feeling a little offended that she had disappeared without saying goodnight, but then again she had been acting very strange all week. So next morning he went in search of her to discover what was ailing her.

He found her wandering amongst the withered rose bushes.

“There you are,” the sound of his voice made her look up, but she did not approach him. “I have been looking all over for you,” he said making his way towards her. When she did not speak he continued; “ I see that you have sought the solitude here in the winter garden. I do not blame you, the house has a tomb-like atmosphere today. I suspect that many are keeping to their rooms after last night's excitement.”

The recollection of last night brought a tear to her eye, that she quickly blinked away. His gaze was turned towards the bushes so he did not notice.

“Although the flowers do not bring one in a much merrier mood.” He laughed softly. “By the way, Miss Plymouth, I meant to talk to you about last night. I ..”

She hastened to interrupt him.

“I suspect that you will be returning to London soon.”

“I don’t…that is to say I have no fixed plans.” He look at her a bit bewildered.

“Obviously you do not wish to linger here. Quite understandably. As you said yourself the country in the winter is not very merry.”

“Yes, …well.. I don’t know,” she had him thoroughly confused. “As I said my plans are not yet fixed.”

“Then I had best bid you farewell now,” she reached out her hand for him to shake.

“Regina?”

“Goodbye, milord,” she said in a forced voice.

“Goodbye, then,” he said laughing still somewhat bewildered, and raised her hand to kiss, but she withdrew it and would not meet his eyes. He stiffened and his features hardened. He bowed. “Ma’am,” he said and walked of. When he reached the edge of the garden his anger had subsided and he thought of finding her again and giving her a profound shake, but thought better of it and instead went to find his sister.

“I don’t understand it! We had a most agreeable summer and now she turns all stiff on me. Have I offended her in some way, do you think?” Alleston asked his sister.

“My dear brother, are you that blind?” Juliet said.

“I beg your pardon? I am not quite sure I follow.”

“She is in love with you, the poor thing.”

His lordship blinked several times.

“Has she told you this?”

“Of course not, she is to proud. But I am not blind.”

“No, it cannot be, you must have misread her,” he said without much conviction in his voice.

“Have I, brother?” For a short while she held her brother’s gaze, then he slumped down in a chair and buried his face in his hands.

“Oh, no.”

“The poor girl has sense enough to know that you are from different worlds and nothing can come of it, and therefore she has done her best to hide her feelings.”

“I am a fool.” Alleston fell back in his chair. “I only made matters worse. I …I flirted with her.”

“Yes, I fear that you did not make it very easy for her.”

Alleston suddenly let out an inaudible moan and once more hid his face in his hands.

“What is it?”

“I called her rose.”

“Oh Justin, you didn’t?”

“And not only that, I called her my rose.”

“You are a fool!!”

“I am a fool.”

“A CRUEL FOOL!!”

“A cruel fool…”

He suddenly jumped up and started pacing the room.

“Where is she? I must find her, talk to her!”

“And say what?”

“I must apologise!”

“For making her fall in love with you? For flirting with her when you both knew that a match could not be? Oh, do sit down, Justin, you are making me dizzy!”

“Then what shall I do?” He fell to his knees in front of her and grabbed her hands. Juliet looked at her brother with pity in her eyes.

“She asked me if I could spare her for the day, and has gone to visit some friends. She clearly does not want to se you. Leave, and give her peace to heal her heart and keep her pride.”

Within the hour of the conversation with his sister Lord Alleston left Summershill.

* *

It was a quiet night at the club. Lord Alleston sat in a deep armchair in front of the fire staring into the flames.

“Good God, Alleston, you scared me half to death,” a voice said, bringing his lordship out of his trance.

“Avely! I am sorry, my thoughts were elsewhere.” Alleston got up to shake hands with the Duke of Avely.

“So I see. It is no good for a man to be lost in his own thoughts. Come and play a game of piqué with me.”

Alleston obliged and followed the old man into the card room. The Duke of Avely was a man of which could be said that the prime of his life extended well into his sixties. He was one of those men on which grey hair look distinguished; that combined with the never fading smile on his face made him extremely charming.

“Rumour has it that you are suffering from a broken heart,” the Duke said as he dealt cards.

“A broken heart? Oh no, if only I was so lucky.” The old man raised an eyebrow, but did not comment.

“Has she got pretty eyes?” the Duke suddenly said.

“Excuse me, sir?”

“I was always a fool for pretty eyes, and long lashes. All they had to do was bat them once and I was their willing slave. Indulge an old man, what colour are they?”

“What colour?” His lordship was taken a bit aback. “They are blue I suppose, but not that ordinary blue. They are more like the colour the sky has on a day with many clouds.” He was not paying attention to his cards, allowing the Duke to win some easy points. “But they darken a bit when she laughs. She has a way of closing her eyes very slowly that makes her lashes seem as if they might touch her cheek.”

“They sound very beautiful,” the Duke said, winning some more points.

“They are,” Alleston said frowning in astonishment over how much thought he had given her eyes. Then he remembered the pain in the same said eyes the last time he had looked into then and flinched.

“You broke her heart, didn’t you?” the Duke said, dealing the cards again. “Why?”

This simple question Alleston could not answer, but merely looked at Avely. The Duke let him be and they played on in silence. At the end of the game, the Duke asked: “Who is she?”

“The vicar's daughter,” his lordship replied absentmindedly.

“I’ve always imagined that they must make wonderful and faithful wives. Plus the fact that their father answers directly to the Lord himself gives them a certain status here in life.”

“Sir, you married a princess of the blood.”

“Aye, my marriage was a brilliant and loveless match. And what has that made me? Nothing but a cuckold.” He fell silent. The Duke suddenly looked his age. “If you’ve managed to find a girl who will love you and who you can make happy, and you still hesitate, then you are more of a fool than I thought.”

“Your Grace..” his lordship started.

“Get out of my sight,” the old man sneered.

The next morning his lordship’s chaise left London.

It was late in the evening when he arrived at Summershill, and the rain was coming down thick. His sister got op from her place at the fire when her brother was unexpectedly announced.

“Justin, what a surprise!” she exclaimed and gave him both her hands. “What brings you here?”

“A sudden desire to see you, Juliet, my dear,” he said and kissed her cheek.

“You picked a damned awful weather to be travelling in.” His brother-in-law poured him a glass of brandy. “You must be chilled to the bone.”

“Thank you, “ his lordship drank and felt his somewhat weary mood lift a little. “ Where is miss Plymouth?”

“She has been dining with some friends in the village, but we expect her home soon,” Juliet said, eyeing him thoughtfully.

“Is she out in this god-forsaken weather?” his lordship said with concern in his voice.

“Don’t be absurd, man,” Edwards laughed. “Jack took her in the carriage.”

As if summoned by his name, Jack was announced. The groomsman was wet as a mouse, the water dripping from him and forming a puddle on the floor.

“Jack? What’s happened? Where is Miss Plymouth?” Juliet asked alarmed.

“The wagon overturned, ma’am, and the wheel broke, so I’ve come to get help,” Jack stuttered shaking with cold.

“What do you mean, man? Did you just leave her there on the road?” Alleston almost shouted.

“Yes sir, the lady bid me so, sir. Seeing as there was only one horse, and she’s not a very good rider..”

But Lord Alleston did not wait to hear this explanation.

“A HORSE!!” He yelled as he stormed out of the room barely stopping to put on the coat and boots that his man came running with.

Justin rode as fast as the conditions allowed him, cursing his hot-headedness that had made him ride off without any information on were miss Plymouth was, when he saw the overturned vehicle lying at the side of the road. And underneath a large tree a hooded figure sat, huddled in her coat.

“MISS PLYMOUTH!” he called out and drove his horse forward, but the hooded figure didn’t move.

He jumped off his horse and ran to her, throwing himself down in front of her. “Miss Plymouth,” he said again grabbing her shoulders.

“Milord?” she said surprised, ”What are you doing here?”

“Never mind that, are you all right?”

“Yes, yes, I am fine," she said in a barely audible voice “It’s only that I am so very very cool.” Her lips were blue and her breathing strained. Alleston threw his coat around her shoulders and desperately tried to rub some heat into her shaking body. He picked her up in his arms and carried her to the horse, where he placed her, and climbed up behind her. As they rode home, he held her close, desperately hoping to warm her a bit.

Juliet screamed when she saw her brother carrying her barely conscious friend. But being a woman of much sense, she quickly recovered and started giving orders. Regina was carried to her room, water and sheets were heated to warm her cold body. The doctor was sent for. And when her brother refused to go and change his clothes, but would stay and wait for the doctor, she told him in the same voice that she used when her children disobeyed her, that she would not have two sick people on her hands. He, like her children, obeyed. When he had changed his clothes and gotten something hot to drink, he returned to the sickroom, where he met the doctor.

“It does not look good,” he said with a grave face. “Her body has been dangerously chilled, and I fear the worst. Her fewer is already very high.”

“Can I see her, doctor?” his lordship asked.

“Yes, but I do not think that she will know you are there.”

Inside Regina’s room the curtains were drawn and only a few candles were burning. In her bed Regina lay motionless. The body that had been so cold a little while ago was now burning up. Justin sat down by her bedside, took her hand between his and pressed it to his lips.

For the next two days Alleston did not leave her side. And his sister could see that the impropriety did not apply. The doctor could not say whether she would live or die, but if only she could avoid pneumonia, she might have a chance. With every hour Alleston went over the time he had spent with Regina, reliving every moment. He knew that in being so long to understand his own heart he had caused her pain that she had not needed to suffer. He barely slept but kept watch by her side. In the wee hours of the second day he dosed off, his head resting on her bed side.

He was awoken by her hand on his cheek, slowly he looked up at her face.

“Justin?” she said in a very weak voice. He took her hand and pressed it passionately to his lips. She smiled and fell asleep. He touched her face, she was no longer burning up, the fever had broken. He stayed by her side a little while longer, having found peace in the smile she has sent him when he kissed her hand. Then he got up to fetch the doctor.

Juliet was relieved beyond comprehension when she learned that Regina had made it through. Being the mother of a sickly boy, she had learned to live with the fear of death as a constant companion, but never had he knocked so loudly on the door to her house. That night she slept in the children’s room, with her little boy in her arms and her daughter curled up at her feet, listening to the sound of their breathing.

“Oh sweet girl, I was so afraid,” she said as she kneeled by Regina’s bed seizing her hand in hers.

“The doctor says that you are going to be all right now, only you will be very weak for some time. Oh Regina, I was so afraid I would loose you.” She pressed her friend's hand to her face.

“Dear Juliet,” Regina said smiling at her.

“You know, you have become such a dear friend to me, I will be ever so lost without you.”

“Then it is good that I am not going anywhere.” After a little pause she added; “I had the strangest dream, you brother was sitting by my bed side, sleeping with his head on his arms, he….” Her voice trailed of.

“He would not leave you, but kept watch by your bedside. He came from London to see you.” Juliet watched the effect her words had on her friend, but said no more, and left her to sleep and to think.

Later in the day Lord Alleston rode the few miles to the rectory, where he was shown into the rector’s study.

“Ah, milord,” he said looking up from an old text. “What brings you here? May I offer you some refreshments?”

“Yes, thank you, I am quite thirsty. I have come to ask for your daughter’s hand in marriage.”

“I thought you might, it sure took you long enough.” Plymouth said with a smile on his lips. His lordship was taken aback, but laughed.

“It seems that all knew before I did.”

In response to this the vicar laughed his loud and merry laugh.

“Don’t fret, my young friend, I did not ask for Mrs Plymouth’s hand until after she told me to.” He settled himself behind his desk. “You see, I was the deacon working for her father waiting for this living to be vacant. I was very young and a very much devoted student. Too absorbed and possibly too stupid to do very much more then notice the daughter of the house.” He took a taste of his drink and let his mind wander back more then 25 years. “When the living did become vacant and I prepared to travel here, Regina’s mother came to me and told me that a young man like myself needed a good and sensible woman to help him in his calling.” He chuckled. “ And I must have looked very baffled for she added that she was just that sort of woman and that I should go and see her father right away.” The Rector laughed out loud at the remembrance of his wife’s boldness.

“What did you do, sir?” his lordship asked.

“I just walked out of the room and when straight to her father.”

He was now laughing so heartily that his lordship could not help but join in.

“But you, my dear Alleston,” Plymouth said drying his eyes, ”have my blessing. I believe that you will make Regina happy.”

When Alleston returned from the rectory he found Regina reclined on a sofa in front of the fire.

“How are you, my rose?” he asked kissing her hand.

“I feel so frail. The doctor tells me that my health would improve faster in a more gentle climate. He suggests that I go to Italy.” She said look down on her folded hands in her lap.

“I should like to show you Italy,” Justin said watching her profile. She did not look up.

“I should like to see Italy with you, very much so,” her voice sounded insecure. He kneeled down in front of her, and raised her face to look her in the eyes and when she smiled at him, he kissed her.

What no one will ever know is that Mr Edwards accidentally was a witness to this love scene. He had come in search of his brother-in-law, but decided that it would be rude to intrude. Mr Edwards had been aware of things long before any of the parties involved. He was not a man who participated very much in life, instead he studied his fellow man, and beneath his somewhat boring exterior there lay a profound understanding of the human nature. He had watched his childhood friend fall in love with a man much above herself, he knew of her agony, and it had been he who had insisted that they invited Alleston for Christmas. He knew that it would be regarded as an ill match on Allston’s behalf, but so had his own, and he truly wished the same bliss on his brother-in-law. Silently he withdrew.

“To have one’s honeymoon in Italy does sound very romantic,” Regina said with a happy voice, when Justin had stopped kissing her.

“If we get married by special license, we can leave as soon as you want.”

“That sounds wonderful,” she said wiping a tear away from her cheek. He stroked her hair.

“I have been a fool, haven’t I?”

“No, my love, you have been nothing but perfect.”

“Just to hear you call me that, my rose, I will endure anything.”

“How long do I have to endure you call me that, it is an utterly silly name.”

“Forever! You shall for ever be my sweet beautiful rose.”

The End