But occasionally even I feel the urge to set aside my manure-encrusted boots and don dancing shoes instead.”Įlizabeth laughed again. “Mama is always urging me to live a little, as though being home on my own estate, which I love, were not living. “It was not entirely for your sakes I came,” he admitted after sipping his wine. You did not really need to come with us, but I appreciate the fact that you did, and that you have leased this very comfortable house for us.” I know too that you are not overfond of being dragged to London just because it is the Season and you knew Mama and I fancied sampling some of the frivolities it has to offer this year.

You are much respected there, even loved, and I know you are contented. “You have worked hard to restore Riddings Park to prosperity after Papa ran it into the ground-pardon my bluntness, Mama-and you have succeeded and can be proud of yourself. In the meanwhile I hope he remains in perfect health.”Įlizabeth laughed and reached out to pat the back of his hand. But I devoutly hope he marries young and fathers at least six sons in as many years to put the succession beyond doubt. He cannot be expected to marry soon, of course. “Perhaps I am peculiar, but I am perfectly happy with who I am and what I have. “Being Harry’s heir is not something I covet,” Alexander said. So did everyone else, it seemed to me, and that probably included Viola, though she was ever the loyal wife.” “Your papa and Harry’s papa were first cousins,” her mother reminded them, “though they were never close. Mama and I are not closely related to Harry.” “And you must admit, Alex,” Elizabeth, Lady Overfield, said with a twinkle in her eye, “that a mystery is always intriguing.

Mary balogh someone to love