Page 51 of A Well-Trained Lady

My relief was instantaneous, and I happily accepted the letters. “I hope it was not too much trouble then.”

Mr. Leavitt swatted his now empty hand at the air between us. “We are practically neighbors to Fairhaven. Our own estate is not even twelve miles from here, and the man I met with this morning is less than three, so it was hardly an inconvenience.”

“Twelve miles? I knew you lived in Dorset but I had not the slightest notion you were that close to here.”

“Yes. That is how I kept your father abreast on the news of the Brundage family. We have a few common acquaintances, though I’ve personally never had the opportunity to meet any of the lot until today.”

My pulse quickened. “Papa had you keep him updated on the Brundages?”

A touch of concern etched into Mr. Leavitt’s features. “Not the family in particular, but your friend, Miss Seton. Though I would report on significant happenings like the passing of the late Mr. Brundage. God rest his soul.” He paused, his large head tipping to one side. “Did you not realize that is how your father knew so much?”

I gave a weak shake of my head, unable to tell him Papa had shared none of the news with me.

“Yes. Having realized our proximity to one another, your father wrote to me not long after Miss Seton was removed from Bath requesting any information I came upon. The Brundages seem to be a relatively quiet family, but on occasion I would hear something worth passing on.”

My throat was tight, but I attempted to conceal my shock. “Well, I thank you for your willingness.”

“It was my pleasure. Your father told me how desperate you were to know Miss Seton was well in her new situation.”

My smile was stiff. “Yes. In truth, I was beyond desperate.”

Mr. Leavitt patted my arm jovially. “Then that is all the thanks I need.”

“And yet it seems we are greatly indebted to you. First for you apprising us of Miss Seton, and second for your delivery of my letters.”

“Think not a thing of it.”

“But I must.” Mr. Leavitt was much too forthcoming with information, and I could not allow Augustus to discover the web of lies I seemed to be stuck in. “If you receive any other letters, you must have them posted. I would not forgive myself for Mrs. Leavitt being left alone on my account.”

He tilted his head to the side. “Always such a thoughtful girl.”

Guilt pricked me as I rested a hand on Mr. Leavitt’s arm. “Speaking of being thoughtful, you must not keep your wife waiting a moment longer than necessary. But promise me you will give her my regards.”

“I’ll be glad to.” Mr. Leavitt patted my hand. “And I hope you are aware that you are welcome to come visit us anytime you desire. Not that your demanding agenda leaves much time for such trivial visits, but I am certain Mrs. Leavitt would prefer your company to mine any day. You need only show up at our door.”

My mouth parted, but no words came out. The Leavitts had not extended an invitation to me at all. Papa had lied yet again.

Mr. Leavitt’s expression sank in concern. “Is there something the matter, Arabella?”

I swallowed and forced out a smile, hoping to regain my composure. “Yes. I am simply overwhelmed by your kindness. I shall not forget your offer. Here, now.” I took hold of his arm to hurry him along before Augustus could return. “Let me see you out.”

As we headed toward the front entryway, I glimpsed Augustus in my periphery walking down the corridor toward us. I kept my focus on Mr. Leavitt, leading him a touch more quickly toward the door.

“On your way out so soon, Mr. Leavitt?” Augustus called.

I barely managed to repress a groan when Mr. Leavitt halted, turning back toward Augustus. “I am afraid so, though I’m determined to convince Mrs. Leavitt to accompany me for a longer visit soon—once her health permits. I was just telling Arabella that we are practically neighbors.”

Augustus took a few final steps toward us and extended a hand. “You would both be most welcome.”

Mr. Leavitt took hold of Augustus’s hand and gave it a shake. “Your kindness is most appreciated, Mr. Brundage.” His eyes moved to me. “Do write your mother to let her know—”

“I surely will,” I said, not allowing him to finish.

Mr. Leavitt’s gaze flitted to Augustus for the briefest moment before he reached up and tapped his own cheek again. Desperate to see him on his way, I leaned over and placed a kiss upon the spot he indicated.

“I daresay, Mr. Brundage, that is the absolute best thing about growing old. I could hardly get a young woman to look at me in my day, let alone kiss my cheek, and now I have one of England’s finest willing to dote upon me on command.”

My cheeks now shook with fatigue as I forced another smile. “As though someone as beautiful as Mrs. Leavitt could ever be persuaded by any but a man of equal standing.”