“I’m so glad.” Lady Glenowen delicately touched a napkin to her lips. “And I’m pleased at the wisdom behind your appearance,” she said quietly.
Ivy, uncertain of how much to say or not say, merely inclined her head in response, while Maud casually sipped tea.
“Colborne needs to walk carefully,” added Lady Glenowen. “I was his Mama’s closest friend, my dear. I adore that boy. Have done since he was born.”
“I was given to understand that you were close to the family, my Lady,” corroborated Ivy.
“Indeed yes. So you may imagine my concern at the current situation.” She quickly assumed a broad smile and exchanged a few brief comments with another lady who passed them by.
Ivy and Maud glanced at each other.
“Anyway,” continued Lady Glenowen, “it is my understanding that much of the fire stoking the flames right now is coming from one source.” She shot a speaking look at Maud.
Who lifted one hand gracefully. “Don’t tell me. Miss Ringwood?”
Lady Glenowen’s lace-covered breast rose and fell as she took a big breath and moved her head in a subtle but affirmative gesture. “Family’s good Ton, but that girl’s brother… well, he doesn’t always move in the best of circles. And a little bird told me there are some financial difficulties as well.” She leaned forward conspiratorially. “I had to hint Gladys McAdams’ youngest away from him. Not a good match at all, although the Ringwoods are keeping their losses quiet for now.”
“Not quiet enough,” muttered Ivy, frowning.
“Probably hoping to recoup,” said Maud practically. “But what they can hope to achieve by maligning Maidenbrooke is beyond me.”
Lady Glenowen looked at Ivy. “It might comfort you to know that few people actually place any credence in the rumours. Your husband has acquired a fine reputation. Amongst those who matter, it will take more than unproven allegations to tarnish his name. But we’d all like to know where they are originating. Any thoughts, my dear?”
Ivy sighed. “Not a one, I’m afraid.”
“Well, in time it will all die down, I’m sure. And coming here today, with Maud, allowing yourself to be seen out in public…well, it’s a very clever move. By this afternoon, everyone will know that the new Duchess of Maidenbrooke is paying no attention to any gossip. And there are more than a few who will follow your lead. Well done, my dear, well done.” She patted Ivy’s hand.
Ivy couldn’t help grinning. “I can’t take credit for it, Ma’am. But I will make sure that my husband’s butler, a man of great wisdom and experience who rules Hartsmere House, receives my grateful thanks. He’s the one who suggested it.”
Both Maud and Lady Glenowen laughed, attracting more than a few approving smiles and glances.
“It just goes to show,” remarked Maud thoughtfully. “No matter what we think, most of the time our servants are smarter than we are, and our butlers truly do run our lives.”
Chapter Sixteen
“Is there any news from Uncle Colly?”
Prudence ran up the steps of Hartsmere House to take Ivy’s outstretched hands. The carriage had just arrived, and the young woman was out in a trice, rushing toward Ivy with a look of eagerness on her face.
“Not yet,” sighed Ivy, shaking her head. “But we have to remember he’s not travelling for pleasure, Prudence.” She turned for the hall. “He will send word when he can.”
Stripping off her bonnet and gloves, Prudence nodded. “I know, and I’m trying to be calm.” She shrugged out of her spencer. “But I’m failing at that, I’m afraid.”
Ivy smiled. “Me too.”
“It’s good to be back home. And I was wondering on the way down if I should call you Aunt now?” She blinked at Ivy. “It would be a correct acknowledgment of your position, but since I’ve been calling you Ivy for quite some time, it would also sound a bit silly…”
“Yes it would, you goose.” Ivy hugged her. “I would much prefer to continue to be Ivy. I’m formally your Aunt, but I hope I’ll always stay your friend.”
“Oh, what a lovely thing to say.” Prudence stopped short and stared at her.
“Yes, it was rather, wasn’t it? I’m quite proud of it myself.”
Prudence’s lips curved into a giggle. “You are such a jester. But I am going to write that sentiment down.” She assumed a virtuous expression. “I might need to use it someday.”
The two of them exchanged a laugh, and then Prudence hurried upstairs to change and supervise the unpacking of her baggage and contents to the right place.
When she returned, it was almost lunchtime and Ivy was already in the parlour.
“It’s just the two of us, Prudence. I thought we’d lunch informally together, if that’s all right with you?”
“Oh goodness, yes,” grinned the younger girl. “Much easier to talk, as well.” She allowed the footman to serve her and eagerly set to. “Now,” she munched on a slice of ham and swallowed. “I want to know what’s happening with Uncle Colly and these rumours.”
Ivy ate slowly, wondering what and how much to reveal to Prudence. Then she decided that honesty was the best policy. “He left the day after we arrived. And I haven’t heard from him yet, although I’m awaiting a note… or something. Anything.” She swallowed.
“You must be worrying,” observed Prudence quietly. “I cannot imagine sending one’s husband away into danger after only twenty-four hours of married life.”
“I would worry even if we weren’t married,” responded Ivy. “Now that this whole business of reform and what’s happening in the north has become real to me, instead of just a casual comment here and there—yes, I worry. It is not a healthy situation for anybody at the moment.”
“Are you—or is
