The Secret of Castlegate Manor by Karen Cogan Read Free Book Online

replied mildly, "The ride was quite invigorating. However, I believe the jaunt in the wind has left me disheveled. If you will excuse me, I shall retire to my room for repairs.
    Once sequestered in her quarters, Caroline allowed the chambermaid to help her out of the riding habit and into a day dress of rose muslin. She set the top hat carefully back into the box and surveyed her tousled hair.
    Maggie took up a brush and began to smooth the chestnut tangles. Her eyes widened at the bits of grass that fell onto the dressing table. Caroline expected her thoughts had taken a turn in the wrong direction. She did not want to be the subject of speculation of the upstairs servants, even until Lavenia's abigail could put things right.
    "I took a fall while riding. I do not wish my aunt to know of the incident. It would only worry her."
    Caroline could still see a dozen questions in Maggie's eyes. Fortunately, propriety would keep her from asking.
    In short order, her hair was restored to fashion, tied in rose ribbons at the side, and falling in a gentle wave down her back. She studied her reflection with approval. If only she could keep from doing any more unladylike things, such as falling off a horse. She felt sure that Lady Eleanor, if she were still alive, would not have approved of her afternoon adventure.
    Now, she would engage in an activity she was sure Lady Eleanor would have approved. She had been longing to peruse the well-stocked library. Several years ago, Lady Eleanor had insisted that Caroline learn to read. She patiently instructed the young girl. In return, in the dear lady's declining years, the stories Caroline read aloud each day provided her with a source of pleasure and amusement.
    Reluctantly, Caroline had Maggie return the borrowed riding habit to Lavenia's room. Lavenia had planned a trip to Bath for material for new gowns. While there, Caroline could choose a velvet for a riding garment for herself. Then, she could go riding every morning if she wished. After all, if she were to become the wife of a country squire, she would have to learn to play the part.
    On the way past the parlour, Caroline heard a male voice.
    She paused in curiosity. Catching sight of her, Lavenia drew her into the room. "Why, Caroline, Mr. Blois has come to call. I have persuaded him to join us for us a meal."
    Caroline fought her disappointment with her change of plans for inspecting the library and reminded herself that she must choose a husband before her role as impostor was discovered. Perhaps, she had been tired on the night of Lady Ruyter's party and not given Mr. Blois a fair chance.
    As they sat for their light repast, she nearly laughed aloud at the silliness of herself, a servant girl, feeling she could be so particular with a husband. What would Mr. Blois, or any of the other young men think if they knew the truth about her?
    All through the meal, he spoke, at length, about his latest activities working with the solicitor. Caroline found her mind wandering and, with great effort, remembered to favor him with an occasional nod and smile. As they lingered over a cup of tea, he laced and unlaced his long fingers in a gesture Caroline found quite distracting.
    It was with private relief that Caroline bid him good afternoon when he proclaimed his need to return to the city. He took her hand and bent over it most gallantly. "You will save room on your dance card for me at your aunt's party, will you not?"
    Caroline felt her pulse quicken with alarm. Lady Eleanor had taught her to read, but Caroline had never had occasion to learn to dance. That she would be expected to do so at the ball had not entered her mind.
    She forced a smile. "I shall, my lord."
    She watched his retreating figure and knew she had no intention of keeping her promise.
    Finally, she was free to escape to her private passion. Books would ask nothing of her. They would not accidentally discover her masquerade. In the library, she would be free to lose herself