A Rational Attachment

By Lauren Gilbert

The daughter of a wealthy business man in York, Anne Emmons knows her father wants her to marry well. Anne, however, has always dreamed of marrying for love. Set in the Regency period, Anne’s introduction to London Society is made difficult by her personal ambitions as well as her family’s lack of aristocratic connections. In time, Anne finds her way aided by family and friends and the surprising support of one of the Ton’s leading figures. Will she succeed in finding the love she desires, or will she settle for a marriage transaction?

Praise for HEYERWOOD: A Novel-
“Heyerwood is written in the Regency Style…..You will fall in love with the characters….” –RT BOOK Reviews

“....not the usual formula Regency Romance....Compelling, interesting and enjoyable....” By: Patricia

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Dec 26, 2019
• ISBN: 9781728338019

Lauren Gilbert

An avid reader, Lauren Gilbert was introduced to English authors early in life. Lauren has a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal arts English with a minor in Art History. A long time member of JASNA, she has presented a number of programs. She lives in Florida with her husband. Her first book, HEYERWOOD A Novel, is available. A long-time contributor to the English Historical Fiction Authors blog, her work is included in both volumes of CASTLES, CUSTOMS AND KINDS: True Tales by English Historical Fiction Authors. She is also researching material for a biography. For more information, visit her Facebook page at https://tinyurl.com/FBLaurenGilbertAuthor and her Amazon page at https://tinyurl.com/AmazonLaurenGilbertAuthor.

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Copyright ©2019 Lauren Gilbert. All rights reserved.

Cover art by Brenda Brunello, Logan, UT Copyright (c) Lauren Gilbert 2019

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 12/23/2019

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3802-6 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3800-2 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-3801-9 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2019919337

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Contents

Dedication

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Epilogue

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Dedication

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To four women who encouraged me, influenced me and guided me: the assistant director of the public library, my two favourite English teachers and, most of all, my mother. My love and gratitude to you.

Special thanks to Brenda, Beth, Mimi and Deb for their advice and encouragement.

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Chapter 1

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M r Walter Emmons sat at his desk and stared at his clasped hands resting in front of him. Anne was his youngest child and the pride of his heart, but he could not deny she had an odd kick to her gallop. (He had recently purchased a horse to run in the York Races, so tended to think in equine terms at present.) He looked around his library and hoped to gain inspiration, but saw nothing but his grandfather’s portrait over the fireplace. Anne bewildered Walter.

Anne’s mother, Walter’s beloved Caroline, died when Anne was very small, which circumstance left Walter to manage her as best he could. Anne was nine years old when her father decided to send her away to school. After thorough consideration, Mr. Emmons chose a most exclusive young ladies’ seminary in Bath for little Anne, and made sure she had all of the extras: dancing and languages, as well as special masters for the pianoforte and the harp and drawing.

He deliberately selected a school with students drawn from some of the finest families in England with a view for Anne’s future friendships. In spite of her shyness and isolation at school, Anne made one friend, Frances Mary Catherine Kidwell. Fanny was a lively girl, a few years older than Anne. The only child of a baronet situated in Kent, she and Anne were friends at first glance. The two girls became inseparable, sharing lessons and free time. That summer, Fanny invited Anne to visit her home for a month. Mr Emmons and Miss Crawford in the post chaise escorted Anne to Fanny’s home near Sittingbourne, in Kent.

A few years later, the two girls, with Anne just entering her teens and Fanny fast becoming a young lady, walked out with Miss Crawford whilst their fathers sat in Mr Emmons’ comfortable, book-lined library as they congratulated each other on successful business ventures. Lord Kidwell had said, I can make certain Anne gets an introduction to society, if you like. My wife plans to bring Fanny out in soon, when she is eighteen. Anne will still be too young, but I am sure there will be opportunities to introduce her about, let her see something of Society with Fanny there to lend support. Mr Emmons thanked Lord Kidwell but thought little more about the matter.

As he looked back over their long friendship, Mr Emmons sighed heavily. He had hoped Anne would settle long before now. At almost twenty-three years of age, she had long participated in the social seasons at home in York, and in London. Lord and Lady Kidwell had done their best by Anne, put her in the way of meeting eligible young men, even arranging for her presentation. Somehow Anne had just never taken. Even at home in York, acting as his hostess, she had entertained numerous young men, ranging from young fashionables in town for the races to successful young merchants and bankers. She had never indicated the slightest tendre for any of the young men. Well, he would have to take a hand, distasteful as he found it.

Unaware of her father’s concerns, Anne sighed and picked up the letter from Fanny again. She read it for the second time, concerned by the urgent tone. She moved to the sitting room window and looked out at the sunlit garden. Poor Fanny. Who could have imagined matters would develop as they did? Glancing at the last paragraph, she read again, Pray, let me come to you in York. I cannot be in Kent when he arrives. I will not see him. If this time is not convenient for me to visit there, could you and Miss Crawford accompany me for a holiday? We could visit the Highlands or the Lake Country, possibly go abroad. I must be otherwhere before the end of the month. Please, Anne, do not fail me. Anne’s thoughts drifted back over the history of their friendship and of Fanny’s current dilemma.

As girls, Anne and Fanny continued their studies at the seminary in Bath until just before Fanny’s eighteenth birthday. Fanny’s mother decided Fanny needed to come home to learn how to conduct herself in Society before her presentation. No daughter of mine will be pushed into Society straight from the schoolroom, she declared. You can always identify the ill-prepared little wretches by their titters and giggles, their pertness, and their complete lack of rational conversation. That May, Lord Kidwell took a house in York for the York Races and Lady Kidwell planned a series of small dinners and entertainments to introduce Fanny to adult social activities. Mr Emmons was invited to these events, as was Anne invited to those suitable to her age.

After the Kidwell family returned to Kent, Anne begged her father not to send her back to the academy. "I cannot bear it without Fanny and I can continue my studies at home with Miss Crawford. Besides, Papa, if I am to keep house for you, I must learn what must be done, and that is not taught at school!" Unwilling to admit how much he had missed her and how glad he would be to have her at home, Mr Emmons held out for a little time before he conceded.

Delighted to be at home, Anne applied herself diligently to home management with Mrs Hubbard, the housekeeper, and picked up the threads of her friendships, especially with Jenny Chamberlayne. Miss Crawford continued to guide her reading and encouraged an interest in the Grey Coat School for girls in York. That winter, Anne journeyed to London with Fanny and her mother to watch whilst Fanny became one of the Season’s belles. Their friendship was warm as ever.

Tall, slender, with silvery blonde curls, and unusually dark grey eyes, Fanny looked like a fairy princess in the whites and pastels favoured for debutantes. Anne’s glossy dark, almost black, hair, and violet blue eyes made a striking contrast, but her lack of height and sturdier frame meant the ethereal styles so becoming to Fanny did not flatter her at all. Anne consoled herself with the thought that her complexion was almost as fair as Fanny’s. She imagined the two of them would be a dazzling pair in a few years, when she was old enough to make her own debut. She stayed with the Kidwells for two months, vicariously enjoying Fanny’s season enormously, before Miss Crawford escorted her home to York.

Frequent letters flew back and forth between London or Kent and York, keeping Anne abreast of Fanny’s affairs. When Fanny became engaged, she begged Anne to come to London to take part in the Season with her and to be present for the betrothal dinner. Mr Emmons was dubious: Anne, at almost seventeen, was younger than some young ladies making their debut and Fanny would be preoccupied. Anne cajoled and pleaded until she convinced him to send her with Miss Crawford.

Well, Mr Emmons conceded, you’ll have your way. Mind, you listen to Lady Kidwell and Miss Crawford, my girl. They will put you in the way of things and Lady Kidwell will make sure you meet the right people. Right after Christmas, Anne and Miss Crawford were packed into the comfortable chaise with their trunks, bandboxes and bundles, and set off for London.

The next few weeks were a whirl of shopping trips. Fanny and Anne, under the watchful eye of Miss Crawford, enjoyed excursions to Millard’s where they purchased fabrics, trimmings, silk stockings and such goods for less than the cost at the more fashionable modistes’ wares. Miss Crawford lectured on the concepts of prudence and practicality, even as they purchased the components of a frivolous costume. She also encouraged Anne to look for the clear colours that suited her dark hair and fair, creamy complexion and emphasised the unusual violet blue of her eyes. After several long and agonising sessions at the modiste’s shop (Anne was sure half the pins were permanently embedded in her sides), the new clothes both girls had commissioned were delivered. Suitably gowned, Anne was ready to make her first appearance in Society. Unfortunately, it seemed likely to be her last….

Fanny had entered Society at Almack’s and encouraged her mother to consider a smaller, private affair for Anne. She is so shy, Mother, and the Patronesses can be very intimidating. Would it not be better for Anne to meet a few people, to form some acquaintance first? Lady Kidwell considered the matter and was forced to concur with her daughter. She remembered an invitation. Fanny, run down to the drawing room and gather the invitation cards on the table near the window. Upon Fanny’s return, the two ladies leafed through them. At the bottom of the pile, Lady Kidwell espied what she sought.

Just the thing! she exclaimed. My dear friend, Mrs Julia Eastland, is holding a rout party to introduce her niece next week! You surely remember her, my dear. She and I were friends as girls. I understand the young lady is near your age and I am certain Mrs Eastland will be delighted to include Anne amongst the guests. We should call on her tomorrow. It seems ideal – with all of the attention focused on the niece, Anne will have the opportunity to meet people and be seen in public without strain. Fanny applauded her mother’s idea.

The next day, Lady Kidwell, accompanied by Fanny and Anne, called on Mrs Eastland. Mrs Eastland was delighted to extend an invitation to the rout party to Anne. I regret my niece is from home this afternoon. Another tiresome fitting, I am afraid. Louisa will be so sorry to have missed you. Anne blushed and thanked Mrs Eastland in an almost inaudible voice. Fanny noticed her friend’s discomfiture and added her thanks as well. We look forward to your party, Mrs Eastland. It will be Anne’s first social event and I am delighted to be able to introduce my dear friend to such unexceptionable company. Mrs Eastland inclined her head graciously. Yes, my dear, I flatter myself that it will be a small but select group. I will be honoured to have you all present. After more compliments, Lady Kidwell rose. Thank you for your kindness, my dear Julia. We must take our leave as Fanny and Anne have fittings themselves. Pray, call on us soon with your niece. We are eager to know her.

As they walked down the steps to the barouche, Lady Kidwell said with satisfaction, It could not be better, girls. My dear Anne, you will be charmed – a small, select gathering of young people. Just what is needed to introduce you gradually to society. She glanced at Anne and added kindly, I hope you will work to overcome your shyness, my love. I am aware that London society is new to you but you have attended social gatherings at home. Your manners are above reproach and you need not hide in a corner. We have made certain you are properly gowned well before the party. You will see, you need take second place to no one. The door of the carriage closed behind them and they bowled on to the modiste’s shop for a final fitting.

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Chapter 2

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A week later, Anne found herself back in the carriage, accompanied by Fannie and Lady Kidwell, on their way to the rout party. Fanny looked most becoming in filmy white, embroidered with silver motifs, whilst Lady Kidwell was resplendent in rich blue silk, lavishly trimmed with golden braid and fringe. Anne privately considered herself almost unrecognisable, dark hair twisted up in a knot and soft curls falling about her face, gowned in soft lilac muslin trimmed with delicate lace, wearing her late mother’s amethyst earbobs and a matching hair ornament. Her blue-violet eyes, enhanced by the colour of her gown, rivalled the deep purple glow of the amethysts. For the first time, she saw herself as grown up, equal to Fanny.

Although she was still nervous about meeting sophisticated strangers, Anne took comfort from the thought that she looked well and her best friend was with her. Anne was startled when she met the hostile eyes of Mrs Eastland’s niece, Louisa Dixon, in the receiving line. However, as she made her way down the line, her pleasure was restored by the warmth of Mrs Eastland’s greeting. She followed Lady Kidwell and Fanny to a room set aside for the ladies to leave their wraps and on to the drawing room. Lady Kidwell headed for a group of her oldest friends near the fire where they discussed a new novel. Conversation halted briefly as she introduced Anne. The ladies acknowledged Anne kindly and returned to their chatter.

Fanny whisked Anne over to two of her own friends, as they looked over some music at the pianoforte in the corner. Eleanor, Mary, I want to make you known to my dearest friend, Anne Emmons. She is visiting from York, come for my engagement ball. Anne, my dear, these are two of my closest friends in town, Eleanor Wentworth and Mary Jamison. Both girls offered their hands to Anne and they fell to discussing their musical preferences. Anne listened as Fanny and her friends cheerfully debated their musical choices, content to look around her.

As more young people joined them round the pianoforte, it was only a matter of time before someone would begin to play. Her head in a whirl of new names and faces, Anne looked for a discreet seat from which she could listen and watch. Before she could make her escape, Fanny took her arm and whispered, Oh, no, do not think it! I know you too well and will not allow you to hide in a corner all the evening! Never fear, I will not abandon you. Just stay with me. As Eleanor began to play a popular ballad, the crowded drawing room was filled to capacity and beyond. The music and the heat swirled through the room and ladies flicked open their fans. The women by the drawing room fire gave up their seats and retired to the library for cards, where several tables had been made ready for whist and piquet.

During a break in the music, Louisa made her presence felt. Unbecomingly flushed from the heat, her curls starting to droop, Louisa did not look her best. Her high-pitched voice penetrated the chatter as she said to someone near her, The veriest nobody, my dear! A friend of my aunt asked that we take pity on the poor thing. I believe her father is in trade or some such thing. Anne froze as Louisa and her friend moved away, not daring to look up from the sheet music in her hand. Fanny paled in outrage, and held Anne’s other hand tightly. She pulled her friend to the pianoforte and pushed her gently to the seat. My dear friend Anne will play for me, she announced gaily to the crowd.

Anne blindly began to play an air that she and Fanny had often enjoyed, a gay ballad popular a few years before. Fanny began to sing, and her sweet soprano recaptured the attention that had been distracted by Louisa’s malicious remarks. As she played, Anne began to recover her shattered poise, winking back tears. Surely Louisa had been talking about herself, Anne thought. "Why is she so unkind? We haven’t spoken a word to each other, beyond a courtesy in passing." After the ballad was finished, the group around the pianoforte clamoured for Mary Jamison to play. Fanny and Anne unobtrusively melted away from the group, finding an abandoned window seat where they sat down to catch their breath.

Anne, take no notice of her, urged Fanny. We cannot be certain she even spoke of you. Who else could it be? asked Anne, miserably. I seem to be the only stranger here tonight. Why would she say such unkind things, Fanny? I have done nothing to her. Fanny glanced across the room at Louisa. Tall, almost painfully thin, lank brown hair crimped into curls already becoming limp and dishevelled, Louisa was laughing with a group of her own particular friends. Fanny had no doubt that jealousy prompted Louisa’s verbal attack.

The contrast between Louisa and Anne was almost painful. When added to the fact that Louisa’s portion was respectable at best, Fanny had every reason to consider Louisa’s comments the opening salvo in a concerted attempt to create difficulties for Anne. Obviously, she is displeased at having another young lady introduced to society at her party, my dear. I fancy she is jealous of you. It should be fairly easy to avoid her – this is such a squeeze! replied Fanny.

Just then, the butler announced that supper was served in the dining room. Fanny and Anne joined Lady Kidwell in the hall and the three made their way to the dining room. Anne was dismayed when they were separated almost immediately. Anne lost Fanny and Lady Kidwell in the throng, but found a place at a table where Fanny’s friends Mary and Eleanor were seated.

Eleanor kindly included Anne in the conversation and one of the gentlemen brought Anne a plate of refreshments. Gratefully, Anne thanked him. As she listened to Mary describe a visit to the Lake Country with her family, Anne managed to eat a few bites of her supper. She gradually relaxed and began to enjoy herself again as she responded to Eleanor’s question about her friendship with Fanny. We were at school together in Bath, and have visited back and forth. Our fathers have become great friends, replied Anne. The conversation became more general as the others began to reminisce about school days, governesses and tutors. A great deal of laughter ensued as each recalled pranks and mischief.

Anne retired to the background again, enjoying the opportunity to listen to the conversation. Eleanor and Mary were the only persons at the table to whom she had been introduced, and Eleanor belatedly rectified the situation. Anne, my dear, I am so sorry! I have been remiss. Let me introduce you. She went around the table and introduced Anne to each young lady and gentleman. Anne responded correctly to each, feeling flustered and conspicuous, forgetting each name as the next was produced. Supper ended and they rose to return to the drawing room.

As Anne surveyed the room, looking for Fanny or her mother, someone touched her arm. I am certain you don’t recall my name, she smiled. I am Emily DeWitt. Are you making your come-out this year, too? Emily was the same height as Anne, with glossy auburn curls and green eyes. Deep dimples in both cheeks made her smile infectious. Involuntarily, Anne smiled back and replied, I am pleased to make your acquaintance. Yes, I will be presented this year.

As they made their way back to the drawing room, Emily said, I am delighted to meet another new face. I felt like the only unknown here! Innocently, Anne asked, I understand this party is held in honour of Mrs Eastland’s niece, Miss Louisa Dixon. Is she not making her debut this year as well?

Emily shook her head, No, this is Louisa’s second season. Mrs Eastland is determined, this year, Louisa will be a Success. Are you staying with Fanny and her family? Yes, indeed I am. They are so kind. They have invited me to spend the next few months with them, to share in Fanny’s engagement parties and celebrations.

My sister knows Fanny well. We will come to call on you and you must come to us as well. You will like my sister. Kate is the dearest thing in nature! She could not be here tonight because of an epidemic cold or I could introduce you at once, rejoined Emily.

Near by, two older gentlemen stood near a window watched the company, unmistakeably bored, and continued a conversation. Because of the music and chatter, they raised their voices to be heard. "Miss Dixon assures me the entire family is déclassé. Provincial merchants at best. Apparently, Kidwell became entangled with them in York and cannot avoid the acquaintance. The other man snorted, Well, that is no excuse to inflict them on Society!"

Condescendingly, the first man observed, Well, nothing wrong with the girl’s appearance, at any rate. Pretty enough, conducts herself well. I have heard there is a huge dowry; that could make a difference, you know. Plenty of good families are cash-poor these days. The second man retorted, "Still smells of the shop, old man! No, no, I would not welcome such a mushroom into my family." They moved away as Anne froze into silence.

Emily looked at Anne in concern. What is wrong, Miss Emmons? Are you ill? Anne flushed and then paled, not even hearing Emily’s questions as she turned over what had been said in her mind. Miss Dixon … Louisa! She was continuing to spread her unkind gossip. She raised her head and caught Emily’s eye. She flushed deeply and stammered, I – I am sorry, Miss DeWitt, I did not hear you. Did you say something?

Emily glanced toward the two retreating men, and back to Anne. Miss Emmons, Anne, I cannot pretend I did not hear the conversation between those two gentlemen. I do not know what their remarks mean to you. However, I must tell you Louisa Dixon is widely recognised for her malicious tongue. Please do not pay attention to her.

Anne smiled gratefully, but could not be sanguine. You are most kind. I … I have the headache a bit. I believe I will look for Lady Kidwell to see if I could go home. I hope we meet again. Emily squeezed her hand and asserted, I can assure you we will. Will you be at home tomorrow? Yes, I will, Anne replied, and instantly resolved to stay in. I will call on you, then, with my sister Kate if she is recovered.

Anne rose and made her way to the library, where she found Lady Kidwell rising to take her leave. Gracefully, Anne made her curtsey to her hostess, put on her wraps and waited in the hall for Lady Kidwell to find Fanny and take her leave as well. Fanny and her mother chattered happily about the evening, whilst Anne’s face flushed deeply. She was mortified as she recalled all she had overheard, and was determined not to put herself in position to be so humiliated again.

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Chapter 3

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T he next day, Fanny asked Anne bluntly about the previous evening. Did you not enjoy it, Anne? I am sorry we did not sit together at supper. I did look for you… Carefully, Anne replied, Your friend Eleanor was most kind. I sat at her table and she introduced me to a great many people. Are you acquainted Emily DeWitt? Yes, I am. Her sister Kate and I have long been friends. She will be my other attendant, Fanny answered.

Your ‘other’ attendant? I didn’t realise your plans were so far advanced! cried Anne. Who else will attend you? Who else indeed, silly, but you, of course! We shan’t have a large wedding party but it wouldn’t be complete without you and Kate. I know you will like each other. Emily is your age, and a sweet girl. I am glad you are making friends. Distracted by talk of Fanny’s wedding, the two girls did not refer to Mrs Eastland’s rout again.

Lady Kidwell brought the party up again at breakfast to Anne’s discomfiture. What a nice evening! Julia’s suppers are always so well chosen and she makes such careful arrangements for her guests. I must say, I was rather shocked by her niece. She has become so thin and sharp-tongued. Anne paled as Fanny said, "I have never known her well but she does seem to be rather … acidic this year, Mama. She was most unpleasant about Anne."

Sharply, Lady Kidwell turned to Anne. Louisa, unpleasant, my dear? What did she say? Miserable, Anne hung her head and repeated Louisa’s remarks and then told of the two men she had overheard. Fanny and her mother looked at each other, appalled. Anne, my dear, I must apologise, said Fanny’s mother. I would not have you subjected to such an ordeal for worlds.

Anne lifted her chin. What did she say that was untrue, ma’am? My father’s family did earn their fortune through trade. My father has active business and banking interests. I am not ashamed of him. However, I didn’t consider that, in London, society might view our family through such a narrow lens. In York, society is less rigid, less unforgiving. My first two years at school taught me that I am a nobody in society, but I had forgotten. Now I am only afraid I might be an embarrassment to you and to Fanny. Do you not think I should go home to York…? Fanny broke in hotly before Anne could continue. What? Run back to York? Indeed, you shan’t! You could never be an embarrassment; you are my dearest friend! Do you think I am so shallow?

Lady Kidwell raised her hand. Girls, we must discuss this calmly. Mr Emmons’ connexion to trade is certainly a consideration. It’s important to note that he has been successful, and owns a great deal of land as well. As well, his birth is by no means a disgrace, and he is a well-educated, well-spoken man whom my husband is proud to consider a friend. She looked at Anne kindly. Your mother’s family was entirely respectable. We’ve always been happy to welcome you as Fanny’s friend. You mustn’t let the malice of an ignorant young woman overset you. Mollified, Anne allowed herself to be convinced to remain in London. Still, she held to her resolve to stay in whilst Fanny and Lady Kidwell paid calls this day.

Anne sat in the drawing room attended by Miss Crawford that afternoon. Each lady was occupied with needlework. Anne gave Miss Crawford an unvarnished account of the previous evening, and the discussion with Fanny and her mother that morning. Miss Crawford said nothing whilst Anne talked, and sat for a few minutes after Anne finished. What do you think, Miss Crawford? Am I right to stay? If I do stay, how will I face those people? I was ready to sink, I was so mortified! Miss Crawford took up her needlework again. Frankly, my dear, this is an issue you must face eventually. You are an heiress, whose father’s money comes from trade. Whilst your great-grandfather built the family fortunes as a merchant, your family includes many of respectable birth as well.

Anne reflected. Her mother was connected to a most distinguished Yorkshire family and her father’s mother’s family was imminently respectable. Miss Crawford continued, Miss Dixon is unlikely to be significantly better born than you are. Your father received a gentleman’s education and owns several large properties that generate a significant portion of his income in addition to his activities in banking and trade. He educated your brothers and you as thoroughly as children at the highest level of society. Many prominent families have shored up their fortunes by alliances with those having much less to recommend them. You will, of course, have to decide how you really feel about your father’s situation, and your own value.

Anne considered Miss Crawford’s words. Value… She suddenly realised she had felt unworthy, somehow lacking. Miss Crawford looked down her nose. Besides it is a well-known fact that heiresses have their own advantages. Rank and money are all very well, and only a foolish person pretends they are not. None the less, the contents of an individual’s brain and heart must also be considered. Better unwed than tied to a person who is an ignorant fool or someone with no kindness at heart. Anne raised her head. Thank you, ma’am. You have given me much to consider. You are very wise.

The next few weeks passed in a blur of activity. Emily and Kate came to call, a call happily returned by Fanny and Anne. Lord and Lady Kidwell hosted a formal dinner and elegant ball at which the climax was the announcement of Fanny’s betrothal to an imminently suitable young man, Mr Carleton Thomas, with whom she was completely in love. Subsequently, both girls were plunged into a maelstrom of gaiety: breakfasts, card parties, shopping, and more rout parties. Louisa remained a sore spot in the back of Anne’s mind like a bruise, painful only when touched. Finally, their activities culminated in Anne’s first visit to Almack’s.

To Lady Kidwell’s surprise, Lady Jersey, with whom she was only slightly acquainted, provided Anne’s vouchers. Fanny and Lady Kidwell, with Anne, made a party with Emily, Kate and their mother. Fanny’s fiancé, Carleton Thomas, met them there. Anne thought them the perfect couple, Carleton whose tall, dark good looks complemented the fair and slender Fanny. Lady Jersey produced a partner for Anne for the first set, and she danced almost every dance for the rest of the evening, except for an occasional pause to rest.

Anne and Emily kept each other company at these moments, sitting in chairs near the floor, as they watched Fanny and Kate swirl by. As they chatted, Anne looked up and met the gaze of a man whose face looked vaguely familiar. He was one of the two men at Mrs Eastland’s rout party! She flushed slightly, put up her chin and looked back at him, then let her gaze wander away, as if uninterested.

The dance ended. Fanny and Kate returned to chatter with them, and, under the cover of laughter, Anne asked Fanny, Fanny, who is that gentleman over there? Fanny glanced casually over her shoulder. Propping up the wall? He is Mr Hopecroft. I had not noticed him here. Everyone is aware that he is all to pieces. It’s a shame; his family is an old and distinguished one. He has searched for an heiress for his son for this age. Why do you ask? Anne murmured something noncommittal. The rest of the evening passed in a whirl of gaiety.

Looking back, Anne could hardly believe she had been in town for several weeks already. Lady Kidwell had arranged for Anne’s presentation at a Drawing Room, in