Chapter Six - Elliot - Theorems

"How was it?" Charles asked, hardly waiting for me to step through his front door before leading me towards the parlor. He hadn't gone with me to the Ainsworth's for the same reason he hadn't led me around the ballroom; I was supposed to be an independent businessman.

"Fine," I smiled, throwing myself back into composure. Ever since I'd left the gaze of those brown eyes--as full as skepticism as they were beauty--I'd been shaking my head and muttering to myself. It was the same young lady who had overheard us talking at the ball last night, I was sure of it. The golden-brown hair, the confident voice...and the daughter of the banker of all people!

If that wasn't a red flag, I didn't know what was. It was obvious she was suspicious. And it was obvious her father felt a sense of pride in her. If she ever discovered my whole scheme and decided to speak up it was likely he'd trust his daughter more than a stranger. He wouldn't grant me anything.

"Well," Charles seated himself on the cushioned sofa in his parlor, "What did he say?"
I pulled myself from my thoughts and sat in one of the chairs, "Oh, just what we had expected. He told me the amount of the estate, which we already knew, and said that the owner was willing to sell it to the highest bidder."

"Bidder?" Charles cocked an eyebrow. But his attention was suddenly drawn away and he looked up. I turned my head as the air filled with the warm, sweet smell of pastries. His wife entered and, with a smile and a greeting, she placed the fresh plate of refreshments on the card table in front of us.
"Thank you, dear," he grinned, immediatly taking one.
"Just make sure to leave enough for our guest," she teased. She politely left but I had to wait for Charles to finish swallowing before he continued.
"And just who is our competition? I thought he would just sell it to the man with the first and biggest offer who had the most promising standing."
My stomach grumbled. I had left extra early that morning so as to prove to the banker my enthusiasm and hadn't yet eaten breakfast. Charles took another pastry and I decided if I didn't grab one now I might never get it.

"That's what I found interesting," I said in between soft, sugary bites, "Apparently someone else has shown some interest in it before me. He is out of town presently but the owner is fond of the man and wants to give him a fair chance."
Charles mused on this for a moment and I smiled at the crumbs that stuck to his mustache.

"I suppose this our big chance then," he said, "While our competition is gone, we need to make the owner just as fond of you if not more. It would also be wise to maintain your reputation among the people as well--the more witnesses we have of your character the better."

I nodded and licked my lips. My cousin dabbed at his mouth with a pocket handkerchief and then looked up at me again.

"Did anything else happen? Any little hints you might've picked up reading in between the lines that might help or hinder us?"

Those brown eyes flashed back into my mind for a moment, jabbing me with unease, but I only shook my head.
"No. He seemed indifferent to the matter as a whole."

Satisfied, Charles relaxed back on the sofa. I subtly did the same, relieved by his simple reaction. I couldn't afford to inform my cousin of the potential snag in our otherwise flawless disguise. He'd already been so merciful a giver into this whole scheme that I didn't have the heart. After the great amount of money and trust he had invested in me, it would be greatly disapointing for him to learn that I had potentially thrown it all away on the first night.

Of course, I was probably overreacting. I was experimenting with something new here and I was sure my thoughts only stemmed from my nerves or concious. However, one could never be too safe.

"Oh," Charles suddenly sat up again and pulled an envelop from his pocket, "I nearly forgot. This is for you."

Surprised, I slowly took it from his outstretched hand. Uneasiness gripped me for a moment; could it be my family? Had they somehow found my location? I broke the wax seal. Inside was a folded letter that still held the subtle smell of fresh ink. This halted my fears as it would've taken much longer for a letter from them to arrive, and I became more curious.

My eyes scanned the spidery cursive with a slower pace than most, I was sure. My education had been somewhat limited in my childhood and I'd never become a proffecient reader, though I was an able one.

I could feel Charle's curious gaze searching my face for any sign of expression.
"What is it?"

"A letter from the Evans," I answered, "They've invited me to dine with them tonight."

He chuckled, "I didn't think it'd take long. You did better than I might've thought last night."

***

The rich smell of steamed vegetables, fresh meat, and several delecicies I didn't quite recognize was the first thing to greet me into the lofty Evans mansion. The second was Miss Charolette.

"Did you have a nice trip?" she asked as one of their servants took my coat.

I smiled, "Yes. Quite nice, thank you."

"Welcome to our home, Mr. Samuelson," Mr. Evans gave a stiff bow. I switched my friendliness to sterness and bowed, "It is a deep honor, Sir."

Supper was just another juggling act. Charles had drilled me on common table curtesies before I arrived so while I kept those in mind I also had to keep up my social act.

"You have a beautiful home Mrs. Evans," I smiled, looking up the elaborate chandelier and detailed art on the wall, "I don't think I've had the fortune to be aquinted with such good taste."

She smiled wide, "Oh, thank you Mr. Samuelson. I do take quite a bit of pride in it."

"As you should," my tone remained easy and cheerful. I then turned to my full platter and forced myself to take small, slow bites. The pressure in the room, created by my entrance, had since subsided since that last comment and I smiled to myself, feeling rather satisfied with how well I had performed so far.

"Did you enjoy the ball?" Charolette asked.

I finished swallowing, dabbed at my mouth, and then gave a nod, "It was fairly satisfying. I enjoyed most of the orchestra and decorations though I did have a few of my own suggestions that might improve it."

It was a shameful lie. In reality, I'd never attended anything so marvelous. It had even taken an unusual length of time for me to fall asleep last night due to all the excitement. However, it seemed to suit Charolette enough so it suited me as well.

"Do you study Latin Mr. Samuelson?"

Gratitude that I had chosen to take small bites filled me as anything bigger would've caused me to choke. Latin? My english reading was slow as it was. Hopefully this wasn't another potential problem Charles and I had overlooked.

Either way, he wasn't present in my time of need. In order to give myself a moment to think, I swallowed hard, took a sip from my glass, and dabbed my mouth again. Finally I looked back up.

"Unfortunetly, I haven't been as successful in that area of study I wish to be. I know a modest amount, but I've been recently entranced by the study of," I paused very briefly to glance at a bookshelf behind Mr. Evans and found the boldest title, "Archemedes Theorems."

"The mathematics and sciences suit you better?" he nodded, "I prefer them as well. Have you studied Darwin?"

I might've had an uncle with the name but had otherwise never heard of it. I decided to answer with generals.

"Oh yes. He is a genius, is he not?"

"Yes, yes, quite," Mr. Evan smiled, obviously pleased to have someone he thought shared an interest, "I was particularly impressed with his ambition in sailing forth to all those islands. How refreshing it must've been."

"All for the sake of improving one's intellect," I said with awe, "I can't think of a more noble cause for such an adventure."

Mr. Evans carried on for awhile after that, speaking of something called evolution and naming several animal species that I doubted I could even pronounce correctly, let alone be familiar with. However, I remained loyal to my interested expressions and even dared to make an observation based on a point he'd already made.

Finally, after a simple game of cards that I quickly caught onto and eventually won, the successful evening came to an end. My hosts sincerely wished me well and I showered them with a decent amount of thanks and compliments. I supposed the only mistake I made was before I passed their threshold.

"Will you be remaining at your cousin's home?" Charolette asked. Though her tone was polite, I could sense the lack of admiration at the prospect. Her parents seemed interested in in the inquiry as well so, under the pressure of the moment, I answered rashly.

"Oh no. I'll be establishing myself at the...hotel soon enough. I prefer to not be a burden to others. Besides that, it has a closer proximity to the estate I plan on gaining."

***

"Charles!" I hissed, throwing open the door of his library. He suddenly jerked up and I realized he'd been asleep.

"Y-yes?" he yawned.

"How much does it cost to stay in a hotel?"

Chapter Five - Nora - An Unpleasant Surprise

"Oh, Nora, you missed out on so much." Minevera sighed dramatically, as she brushed her hair longingly. I almost felt like gaging, but I held it in for her sake. "Too bad you had to dance with Hodges or father could have introduced you to Mr. Samuelson. A wasted oppurtunity, I assure you."

"Yes, tis a shame, to be sure." I played along, rolling my eyes. Mr. Samuelson probably wasn't even his real name, as my eavesdropping led me to believe. It was all some facade. But why? I shook my head. It hardly mattered to me. Most likely, I was never to see the man again; I had no need to worry about him or his strangeness.

"Not only his he established, he is so agreeable, and oh so handsome." Minevera led the brush again through her hair, and I frowned.

"If you don't mind, I'm quite spent, so I'm off to bed." I fell onto my bed, and dug into my covers, hoping that would end all conversation of the ever-so-impressive Samuelson. Not even a full day in town, and he already had won my sisters over. I snorted, some accomplishment that was.

"And the way he looked at me." Minevera sighed. "I think he's interested Nora, and I have a strong feeling that won't be the last we see of him, especially around here."

I replied nothing, instead, took up a light snore, hoping Minevera would get the point.

"The only way the evening could have been better was if we had danced, but, I suppose that would be too much to ask for all in one night."

As my last resort, I found my spare pillow and threw it Minevera's way, and it hit her smack in the face, as she was left sputtering and spitting bits of feathers out of her mouth. "Nora!"

"Goodnight!" I smiled cheerfully, and blew the out the candle that had been on my bedside table, snuggled in deeper to my covers, and fell asleep almost immediately, without any worries or troubles.

*

"Nothing says good Saturday morning such as eggs and bacon, as me father use to say." Peggy grinned, and slammed another heaping upon my already full plate.

"Thank you Peggy." I nodded, and picked up my fork, trying to find a strategic way to begin the meal. "Where's father at? Still in bed?"

"Nope. He told me that he had a special business meeting this morning." Nelly nodded, playing with her doll upon the table. "Had to be taken care of real early."

"Earlier than breakfast?" I wondered. That wasn't usual for my father. The business matter must have had some urgency than.

"Hettie and I were thinking of going into town today." Minevera offered, trying to make conversation.

"For what purpose?" I turned to Nelly, who was sitting perpendicular to me, and urged her to eat some of her breakfast and put the doll down. She managed to focus on her food for all of two minutes before turning back to her doll.

"To mail a letter to Mr. Scott of course." Hettie stated, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

"Of course." I nodded, pretending to share their interest.

"Of course it would be nicer if we could send a note from you, sending your regard." Minevera added, not looking up at me. Probably dodging an icy glare from me.

"Well, I'm sure he won't notice if I don't."

"I'm sure it would be considered rude without it." Hettie muttered.

"Alright, I'll write a small note asking after him." I stood from the table, and took off into my father's office, where I was sure to find paper, ink, and pen.

After quite some time finding and making up the letter, I moved back into the small breakfast area, my eyes focused on the small letter, rereading it to find any mistakes.

"And here is my eldest daughter I was telling you about, Nora." I stopped short at the sound of my father's voice.

"Father, I hadn't heard you come in." I pulled the letter away from my face, and my jaw dropped at the sight of who my father's company were. The gentleman from last night stood, right in front of our eating table, smiling- no practically smirking- at Hettie and Minevera, who seemed to be eating up every bit of it. Nelly, who was typically shier, hid behind my father's leg, sneaking glances every once in a while at the man, who seemed a giant to her.

"Nora!" Both Minevera and Hettie whispered from across the table. I closed my mouth immediately and tried to compose myself into the lady I should be.

 "Nora, this is Mr. Samuelson." The gentleman finally turned to look at me, and both astonishment and horror crossed his face, but almost as quickly, were replaced with a giveaway grin and twinking eyes. He seemed a bit nervous, but not more so. I watched him carefully, wondering what his next move would be.

I bowed, as was expected of me. He bowed his head in return. "Nice to meet you."

"I believe we have met, last night, at the ball?" I feigned a casual tone, trying to gauge his reaction.

"Did we? Names, faces, they all seem to blend when you are the stranger in town. I hope you can forgive my forgetfulness." He shifted, which was almost inperceptible, as it was quick and gone in a flash, but I picked up on it. He was lying. He knew exactly who I was and was trying to play it off now.

"Oh, what is there to forgive, Mr....? I'm sorry, what was you're name again?" I asked, playing along.

"Samuelson. Eliot Samuelson." He winked at me, and I felt like chucking an object at his head. Luckily for him, my family was present.

"Mr. Samuelson and I have some business we must attend to, so if you don't mind..." My father directed Mr. Samuelson out of the room after he bowed to all of us a final time.

Once they were gone, I was left to be hanged. "Nora! I've been talking about Mr. Samuelson for weeks now. How could you act so infavorable to him? Forgetting his name? We were to make a good impression upon him, now he'll probably want nothing to do with us!" Minevera threw her hands up in exasperation. "How could you be so inconsiderate, of my feelings?"

"Nora, what on earth is wrong with you? I honestly can't believe I have to have you as a relation. Why must I be so cursed?" Hettie grimaced.

I shrugged, knowing it was all a loosing battle anyway. "Look on the brightside; I finished the letter for Mr. Scott. Now you can go into town." I dropped the letter on the table, and the two gapped at me, disgusted at my behaviour.

They began another lecture, and I ignored them instead, leaning down to Nelly. "Should we go get you washed up?"

She nodded and grinned and took my hand as we ascended the stairs. "I like him!" She stated, and I had no need to even ask who, as the strange, mysterious man was on my mind too.

Chapter Four - Elliot - When in Rome

I removed my hat and scratched the back of my head, watching the young lady's skirts disappear through the door. A small knot of uneasiness began tightening in my stomach; No matter what sort of light I tried to put the sudden situation in, the expression on her face wasn't a good sign. I just might've already blown my cover. And in only within the first hour of arriving!
"Perhaps," Charles gave a cautious mutter and twisted the end of his orange mustache, "We should save the discussing for the walls of my home."
"Agreed," I muttered.

Shortly afterwards, we moved back into the midst of the celebration, trying to look less suspicious than we must've appeared out on our own. Charles walked beside me, trying to find a decent party for us to converse with while at the same time trying to not look the leader. Such behavoir would make me appear dependent--something we didn't want in the Elliot Samuelson image.

"Oh, look," he finally said, discreetly pointing towards a group of people at the back of the dance hall. They were dressed about as richly as I was with their pressed suits and glittering jewlery. They had shawls, cravats, polished buttons, laced gloves--the only attire they didn't seem to be wearing was a smile. In fact, a good part of them were watching their surroundings with a critical scowl as if refusing such an indulgence.
"The Evans," Charles continued, "They'd be a good family to be aquainted with."
"If for social reasons only," I smirked, "They have the good humor of an abandoned graveyard."

Charles shook his head with a chuckle and then began to manuever through the crowd again. I was just moving to join him when I heard someone loudly clear their throat behind me. I turned back to see  a greying man with two young ladies. Charles, seeing that I had stopped, turned around as well. An open grin quickly leapt to his face.
"Mr. Ainsworth," he said, shaking the stranger's hand.
The man smiled in relief at the familiar face of a friend, "Evening Mr. Lettington. May I introduce my daughters to your dear cousin here?"
"Of course," I said easily, offering him a handshake as well. At that, the two ladies giggled and I smiled, amused by their blushing reactions.
"Unfortunetly, my eldest daughter is already dancing," their father began, "But, Mr. Samuelson, this is Miss Minevera Ainsworth, the closest to her in age."
Minevera looked up at me with her green eyes and gave a confident smile. Her fair hair moved slightly when she curtsied and I smiled, bowing in return.
"This is my third daughter Miss Henrietta Ainsworth," he continued. Appearance wise, the youngest was nearly opposite of her sister with dark hair and eyes. However, she had a bold smile and curtsied almost with a bounce. Both girls were pretty and I doubted them sitting out many dances.
With another smile, I offered her a bow to her as well, "It is a great pleasure to meet all of you."
"You as well," they grinned in unison. The father smiled a little self-conciously and moved to escort them away.
I couldn't help but laugh a little myself at their swooning. I'd been so focused on trying to look like fifteen thousand pounds part of my image that I'd nearly forgotten the bachelor side of it. I then decided to slightly indulge the latter and, when the sisters looked back over shoulders one last time, pulled a sly wink.
That, of course, sent them giggling and blushing all over again. My cousin rolled his eyes at me and then nodded back towards the Evans family. Laughing softly to myself, I obeyed.

We went through the common greetings and introductions within the circle. Apparently the Evans family consisted of a father, mother, and their single daughter Miss Charolette. They mentioned a brother who was off on some other business but such trivial facts I only remembered for the length of the conversation. And, once I had finished assuring them of the good health of the Samuelsons--which I certainly hoped to be true--that length didn't last long. Everyone fell into a dull silence.  However, the self-importance of these people made it was obvious that these people were the type that would maintain the reputation Charles had previously built up for me. While they're mouths were silent, I could tell their thoughts were rampant, critiquing just about any individual that passed by.  It seemed they saw everyone as a lesser human being than themselves. Everyone, that is, except for me and my fictional income. Though I didn't agree with their narrow perspective, I got the idea that being accepted by this family would continue to establish my standing in the citizen's minds.

It was with these thoughts that I turned to their fair-skinned daughter.
"Miss Evans," I said with an gracious smile and a polite bow, "May I have the honor of having the next dance with you?"
A cold smile uncurled on her lips and she bowed in turn, "You may."

***

I faced her as the playful orchestra picked up another string of music. Most of her auburn hair was pinned back with a few thick curls falling gracefully over her shoulder. She had smooth, almost intimidating features which made her both attractive and authorative. But I had no plans of cowering under either trait. The last thing I wanted to do was become a fumbling, apologetic partner. No, if anything I would just have to become just as authorative as her if not more. I couldn't let myself appear weak because, as far as these people were concerned, I was flawless. And a noticed weakness seemed to spread faster in the lines of gossip than an obvious strength.

From my observations tonight, I was confident I had learned a dependable tactic for such a feat. It was to take notice of the mannerisms of those around you and enhance them. When around giggly girls, smile and wink. When around aquaintces of aristocracy, address and bow. When in Rome, do as the Romans.

It only took that small moment before the actual dance began to observe enough of Miss Evan's solemn characteristics to get a good idea of my own behavior. I started by mirroring her serious expression as we stepped forward and took hands. It was a challenge not to burst out in laughter at how ridiculous it felt, but thankfully my knack for acting--developed through a childhood of covering up--came to the rescue.

"Do you come to these balls often?" I asked in a sophisticated tone.

She hardly glanced my direction, "Yes. When it's convenient."

I gave a subtle nod and kept my chin slightly up, holding back a subtle smirk. Convenient? It was a nice subsitute for favorable-to-her-high-maitenence-taste.

"And what of you?"she asked, "Now that you will be staying here, do you plan on attending any more festivities?"

I allowed a smug smile in her direction and chose an answer I thought might satisfy her vanity, "It would depend on the host. And, of course, the attendents. If there are enough tolerable families such as your own I just might."

This time her expression mirrored mine. I could tell I had tolerably impressed her now, though I wasn't sure whether to feel flattered or disapointed. There wasn't much time for a decision however, as we were then seperated according to the dance formation and had to switch places with other dancers. I wasn't entirely experienced in these new forms but I had decided that it couldn't be too hard if one followed the person in front of them.

Once we were a few people apart, I glanced her direction, trying to capture a different side to her character. Perhaps she'd look a little relieved from the pressure of her partner--as I did--or smile over at a friend. Not much to my surprise, though, she did something completely different. Going up on her toes, she began searching the crowd for familiar faces. By the time she had their attentions, it was time for us to rejoin. And, just like that, she had caught the envy of a fourth of the dance hall.

I wanted to scowl. Maybe even send apologetic glances to every other lady in the room. But the eyes of some curious parents burned into the back of my head so I kept up my brooding arisocrat face instead.

"Was your journey pleasant?" she asked, her tone warming.
I decided to keep a balance of friendliness and authority in my answer, "There was room for improvement. But it was pleasant enough. Do you like it here?"

"I'm terribly exhausted of my parents' house," she said and I pretended to not catch the hint, "But the natural splendor of the place is most admirable."

Then, unsure whether I had really heard the first part, she added, "Of course, my father has very high expectations for whomever I marry so I may remain in that house until I am an old maid."

This time the smirk couldn't be restrained.  But I managed to turn it into more of a friendly smile by the time she looked back over at me. The only response I could think to satisfy her with was, "I doubt that possibility madam."

Finally, just when I had run out of dull conversation topics and thought my frown might finally give way if she spouted out any other high-and-mighty remark, the dance ended. I bowed, she curtsied, and then I escorted her back to her family. She cordially thanked me, her face glowing for all other ladies to see. I thanked her in turn and then Charles and I moved on.

I danced with several more ladies that night, trying my best to play my game peices in the most charming and strategic way I could: laughing here, complimenting there. Winking to some, smiling at others. Charles said to make sure I left a good impression on them since they would likely report to their parents but I will admit that, more often than not, I was having too much fun to think about such purposes.

As for the gentlemen, I joked enough to get an entire circle laughing and then listened with feigned interest as they spoke of sports and topics which I knew next to nothing of. By the end of the night, I was contented to have made a fair-sized foundation of new friends. Some of which even offered to take me hunting--a chore that I'd never seen as a leisure until I arrived here.

Finally, though, the fun ended and after a good amount of dances and conversations, my cousin muttered something about meeing someone else of importance.

"Mr. Ainsworth," he said as we made our way back through the hall, "I know you've already met him but I forgot that he wanted to speak to you of the estate."

The estate. The whole purpose I was in this silly charade.

"What does he have to do with it?" I asked curiously, having imagined a different, more prominent looking owner to such a prostigeous property.

"He's the banker,"Charles replied, "The real owner of the estate you'll have to meet later."

We soon met up with him again and he told me that he had all the paper work ready for me and that all I needed to do was show up to his house the next morning. After this news, he politely left to locate his daughters--two of which I was sure would be more excited about the minor event than myself.

Little did I know how the eldest would react.

Chapter Three - Nora - A Secret at a Ball

“Father, you must find Lettington’s cousin and make his acquaintance.” Hettie prompted as soon as we set foot upon the Fitzhugh’s cobblestone steps. I held my tongue, knowing no one would appreciate any stark comment I had about Lettington’s cousin. I had heard nothing on any other subject for a whole week. I had had enough of Lettington’s cousin, and I hadn’t even met the guy.

“I cannot promise anything, but I will be on the look out for him.” My father seemed distant, his mind probably on business rather than the people at hand. Things like Lettington’s cousin were trivial, nothing but a passing phase.

Hettie gave a smile in approval, and both her and Minevera bent over in whispers as we approached the large manor and were led inside. The ball was well underway already, as father had insisted we come later, after all his business at home had been put away.

People of all manners were crowded both in the hallway and in the rooms beyond. I couldn’t see how large the party was, but as a guess, I would have said about 200 people had come, a large ball for these parts.

The Fitzhugh household was impressively dressed for the event; elegantly placed candlesticks gave the place a whole new look. Their manor was impressive enough alone. Mr. Fitzhugh was a merchant of some kind and had a decent income, thus making his household one of the better in our part of the country.

“Miss Ainsworth, you seem to be looking lovelier than usual.” The male voice whispered the phrase into my ear only, catching me off guard. An instant grin came upon my face at the familiarity in his voice.

 I wasted no time swiveling around, making not only my father, but also Hettie and Minevera stop in their tracks.

“Hodges! I didn’t think you’d be back in town so soon!” I stepped towards him as he swept my arm up in a dramatic arc until the back of my hand met his lips.

“You know me, just can’t keep away from my favorite girl.” He grinned and swept a hand through his copper-colored hair. Such a tease, but that’s what made Bertram Hodges who he was. He had been my best friend and neighbor since before I could remember. Our mothers had been best friends themselves, hoping against all hope that they could someday get the two of us engaged and eventually married. Try as they might, it hadn’t worked out, especially after my mother died. Mrs. Hodges hadn’t been her same self ever after. Her poor health kept her restricted to her own household, and out of her son’s business.

Hodges navy eyes jumped from me to my father and sisters, and he nodded politely. “Mr. Ainsworth, glad to see you out and about. That bank has about swallowed you whole, eh?”

“Thankfully, not yet Bertram. I seem to have a few more years in the business yet.” My father gave a warm handshake to Hodges. “Would you mind escorting my beautiful young girls for a few minutes? I was suppose to find Mr. Singh tonight and clear up a few last business details.”

“It would be my sincerest pleasure.” Hodges grinned, and my father thanked him before heading off, just as he always did. It didn’t bother me so much now, now that I realized that was the only way for my father to grieve. He kept himself so busy he didn’t have to think twice about the loss of my mother, or us, for that matter.

“I haven’t seen any sign of Lettington’s cousin.” Minevera complained, her eyes keenly scanning over the crowded hallway. “Maybe he’s in the dancehall?”

“Undoubtedly!” Hettie nodded, and the two linked arms and headed that way, expecting Hodges and I to follow after.

The two of us maneuvered through the crowd, as Hodges looked to me for an explanation and I shook my head in disapproval. “Their latest bachelor of interest. He’s knew in town and has yet to meet his two greatest admirers.”

“Ah, young foolish love.” Hodges stopped in his tracks, and just as I suspected, his eye had caught sight of a certain young woman, and I let out a loud laugh.

“What?” Hodges came back to earth, and began to walk again, offering his arm to me and I took it loosely within my hands.

“Seems London couldn’t make you forget a certain Abigale Murray.” I looked back at the girl in question, who seemed deeply engaged in a conversation with a man I didn’t recognize.

“Oh but only if it could. Maybe then I wouldn’t be in such a mess.” I felt sympathy for Hodges, and wanted to do something, but knew I couldn’t. Mr. Murray wasn’t going to give his daughter to someone with less than 15 thousand pounds a year, and sadly, Hodges fell well below the bar on that.

“It’s not so bad as it seems.” I assured, offering the only truthful consoling words I could find. He gave a small grimace in return.

“Seems bad mannered to be letting underage girls running amuck. My parents would have never allowed such a thing. Probably the only worst fate is being left to die an old maid. ” The words turned my blood cold. Charlotte Evans- the county’s self-appointed advisor. I felt very unladylike whenever I was around her, and it took all of my strength not to do something I would later regret.

“Miss Evans, nice to see you again.” I gave a slight curtsey towards her, and she returned it.

“Not as nice as to see you here, with you’re… sisters.” She gave a fake grin, but not before I noticed plain disgust pass across her face seconds before.

So Hettie’s coming out was next year. It wasn’t a crime to bring her to a ball a year earlier, and same for Minevera. It was ultimately my father’s choice to decide if they could, and after my mother’s death, he had allowed them to come along if only to appease them in someway. Only Nelly was forced to stay at home with her governness, and even that took a lot of restraint on my father's part.

I opened my mouth to deliver a reply, and Hettie and Minevera briskly walked towards Hodges and I, excitement seen obviously in their body language.

“He’s here Nora! You must come see him!” Hettie pulled on my arm, pulling me away from Charlotte.

“He’s more handsome than I anticipated.” Minevera sighed. “If only father could get his acquaintance. I’m sure we could spark his interest.”

“Minevera!” I whispered, horrified, but still smiled at her boldness.

“Just come Nora!” Minevera pulled me along, and Hodges, obligingly followed.

 We walked along, moving through the crowded dancehall into the smaller sitting room, which was only slightly less crowded than the dancehall had been. The music drifted in from the other room, but not as loud as it had been in the dancehall.

“He’s right there! The only one in the pinstriped trousers.” Hettie pointed him out, and my eyes grew wide at his luxurious outfit. He was handsome all right; his light blonde hair was cut shorter than most men’s, but still had enough bangs that fell upon his forehead. His blue eyes looked as if they were dancing, from amusement, as if he were in on some big joke. And although He stood tall, taller than any other man gathered in the small group he was talking in, what really struck me were his facial features, which were strongly defined, especially his sharp nose and high cheekbones. 

“If his outfit is any indication, he sure is a show off with his money.” I noted, and Hettie and Minevera barely took mark of my words as they ogled the poor fellow.

The room was small enough for us to hear every syllable of the man’s conversation, and although rude, I was intrigued enough to stand still long enough to hear a few snippets of what the group was talking about.

Charles Lettington, and his wife, stood next to the man, giving introductions to both sides. After he introduced each member to his cousin, he turned to introduce the man. “Fellows, this is Elliot Sn-“

“Samuelson.” The blonde-haired man thrust his hand out, and shook each of the men’s own hands.

“My cousin.” Charles added, giving a strange look to his cousin, but soon recovering enough to smile. It was subtle, but it definitely had been there, I was certain.

I hesitated. What could it mean?  Mr. Lettington behavior was odd enough, but so was the man himself. He seemed too much at ease, with something just slightly off that I couldn’t place. I reasoned with myself it had to be nothing, and besides, I wasn’t all that interested to get involved with the man anyways.

“Thank you Bertram for your indispensable service.” Our party all turned at once, as my father came up from behind, already holding some sort of drink in his hands. “I think I can handle it from here.”

“Mr. Ainsworth.” Hodges bowed, and my father bowed in return. “Miss Ainsworth, may I be honored with a dance from you tonight?” Hodges turned to me and I nodded. He bowed to me and my sisters each in turn, and we each curtsied before he took off, as I assumed to see after an Abigale Murray. 

*

The music began a familiar tune and I turned to search after Hodges, hoping to claim his dance. He wasn’t to be found in either the sitting room or the dancehall. Last chance, I hoped to find him outside, maybe stepping out for some fresh air.

Taking a side door, I looked around, but found no one. I moved to the front porch but stopped short at the sound of voices.

“What happened to letting me do all the talking?”

“I got a little carried away. Sorry.” I could hear the playful tone in the second speaker.

“I noticed. And where exactly did you get Samuelson?” The first speaker shuffled, muffling a laugh.

“Well-“ I stepped, and a board creaked underneath my foot. Cringing, the two speakers stopped talking, and shuffled around the house, finding me helplessly stopped in my tracks. I recognized the two at once- Mr. Samuelson, and Mr. Lettington. Of course, the two held a secret; I knew it.

I gathered my wits about me, realizing I had two choices. Either I could stay caught in the act and explain myself, or bite the bullet and run. I chose the latter.

I took a deep breath, and before either gentleman could say anything, I began. “May I suggest if you are to have a private conversation, having it somewhere a bit more private, perhaps?” Curtsying, I scurried past the two and back into the house, not looking back once.

I closed my eyes, knowing I had now placed myself in a dangerous position.

Chapter Two - Elliot - Schemes

“Samuelson Donates Large Sum to Church”
The weekly crinkled softly under my fingers as I read beneath the headline. Ten thousand pounds of a sum apparently. “All for the benefit of the disease and poverty stricken,” and likely his ego. Most of us men could give two arms and a leg without making so much as the physician’s patient list, let alone the community paper.

There was a soft knock on the guestroom door, pulling me from my thoughts. I looked up just in time for my cousin, Charles Lettington, to stumble into the room, his arms laden with boxes and clothing.
"Sorry it took so long," he chuckled, crossing the room and dropping it all on the bed next to me, "My dear wife apparently rearranged some of my storage yesterday."

I folded the paper and tucked it in my jacket with a smile, "She has you wrapped around her finger doesn't she?" 
He shrugged helplessly and I chuckled. Then, turning my attention to the pile, I found a neatly-pressed tailed coat and held it up. It looked the perfect size and held the scent of fresh, expensive fabric. I shook my head; leave it to Charles to go this far. Get an idea in that man's head and there was no other fate for it but to become reality. 

"I can see you've been busy," I observed.

He nodded and then ran a hand through his orange hair with a sigh, "I suppose you could say that." But then his weariness melted away as a teasing smile inched across his face, "Of course, the rest of it is your chore now."
I laughed and set the coat back down, moving to the other articles, "And you have all confidence that this won't mar your livelihood in any way?"
He only smiled, "I'll let you get dressed and then we'll decide at that ball tonight."

***

I had just enough time to pull on the pinstriped trousers, polished boots, and white shirt before he was back again. This time with even more little accessories.
"Where did you get all this?" I grinned, buttoning my collar.
He looked up at me, a mischevious look on his square face, and shrugged, "Here and there. But as far as you're concerned, it was purchased from a high-class tailor back in London."
"Right," I smiled, now turning to the seperate cuffs on my sleeves. The clean fabric felt unusually soft on my skin so I knew most of it must've been recently purchased. He'd obviously looked into backing up the story. And as much as I hated to admit it and as much as I knew he wouldn't, my case would be hopeless without his help.

Once the collar was finished, I looked through the various waistcoats laid out. Most were made of smooth silk and had neat designs so either choice would've been fine, but I eventually decided on a silver one and pulled it over my shoulders as Charles continued his drill.
"The ball tonight will be of vital importance to our success if we want to get this whole plan off the ground. First impressions go a long way so you'll need to establish yourself to the locals positively."

I finished with the black buttons then moved to the coat.

"In order to do this I would suggest common curtesies. Don't stand too idle for too long or they'll think you dull. But don't dance too many dances or you'll be found impudent for your type. Be polite to the ladies, professional to the gentlemen and smile often without seeming overly amused."

"So, simply put," I smirked and pulled on a pair of white gloves, "I am breath without using my lungs."

Charles laughed and handed me a top hat, "Precisely. It's all a great balancing act really. But the main principle is just to keep your common sense and wits about you. Do all that you can to maintain your reputation."

"And just what sort of reputation am I maintaing?" I asked, turning to the round mirror that hung on the wall and adjusting the hat to a perfect tilt.
"An educated, young bachelor of noteworthy integrity and an income of at least fifteen-thousand pounds."

I took hold of the pocket watch and walking stick he held out for me with a sneer; That was quite a name for a liar in debt.

Chapter One - Nora - Rumours of Arrival

"Hettie, have you hung the wash out to dry?" I manuvered through the kitchen, expertly gathering the dishes all the while avoiding Nelly, who sat square in the middle of the floor, dressing up one of her many dolls, yet again.

"Not exactly." I could here the annoyance in her voice as she dipped her pen back into the ink bottle, all but ignoring me. "I have a very urgent letter I must finish, Nora. Surely you'll see it is of a higher importance than petty chores."

I refrained from rolling my eyes myself, knowing yet again, I'd end up being the one who hung out the wash. Before I could express my annoyance to Hettie, I turned my back to her and placed all the dishes into the small wash basin, and our maid, Peggy, gave me a grateful nod before turning her full attention towards the dishes.

 "May I ask why this letter is so important?" I raised an eyebrow out of habit and turned to her, my patience failing by the second. I knew it was a vice of mine, but my sisters tested me to my limit, and, well, as much as I tried, it always seemed to show.

Hettie had no time to answer me as a "He's here! He's just arrived!" came ringing through the house. The kitchen door slammed shut, and I didn't even have to face that direction to guess who had just waltzed in. Just as I had reasoned, Minevera came breezing by, her focus solely for Hettie. "Oh Hettie, you must meet him!"

"Who is he?" Hettie looked up, for the minute distracted from her letter writing. Minevera giggled and bounced across the room, taking a seat right next to Hettie.

"He, is none other than a single cousin of the Lettingham's. Quite the gentleman, I hear, and as handsome as they come. He's staying on with the Lettingham's, for the time being, and I hear he's planning on getting a house of his own, in no time." Minevera looked pleased with herself, knowing she had not only Hettie's attention, but Nelly's, as well as mine. "But that's not even the best part. Rumour has it, he's filthy rich. Loaded with money, up to his ears! And-"

"Minevera, what have I told you about idle gossip?" I chided, grabbing the small basket of wash that had yet to be hung out.

"But it's not gossip if it's true!" Minevera protested. "It's all confirmed. Mary, who talked with Peggy, who is a cousin to the Lettingham's maid, who has personally seen Mr. Lettingham's cousin, with her own two eyes. Go ask Mrs. Lettingham herself. I'm sure she'll be able to acknowlege the truth to the story."

I shook my head. I wasn't noisy enough nor curious enough to go around knocking on neighbour's doors to get into their buisness. That was more of a Minevera-thing to do.

"I wonder if he'll be on the look out for a wife?" Hettie exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement.

"Oh, no doubt about it!" Minevera agreed. "He'll need someone to spend all his money upon!"

"If he's wise, he'll spend his money upon himself." I uttered quietly, already tired of the two's conversation. Last week their talk had been all about a Nathaniel Scott, who had come for a visit from London. Now it was some cousin of the Lettingham's. It didn't really matter who, so long as they had a gentleman to oogle. I, on the other hand, had more important duties to take care of.

"Can I meet him! I want to meet him!" Nelly piped up, just as I headed outside.

"Oh, you will Nelly, if father let's you come to the ball next Friday. I'm sure this man will be there, and then we can all see for ourselves, how handsome he truely is." Minevera's voice faded as I moved farther and farther away from the house and to the backyard.

I frowned. If only my sisters would spend as much energy working as they did gossiping, maybe we would all be better off. Sighing, I began to clip the washings up, knowing the faster I got it done, the sooner all the chores would be complete.