Page 93 of Wicked Highland Heroes

“To be honest, I wanted to get the machine operational and see if I could make a go of it first.”

“I wouldn’t mind seeing how the machine works,” his father said.

“I had no idea you were interested in farming,” Erroll said with genuine surprise.

“I am just as surprised to learn you are interested in farming.”

“If you like, come to Norfolk for the harvest.”

“I will.” The marquess leaned back in his chair. “I’m gratified you are taking more interest in your responsibilities.”

“I was under the impression you were always satisfied with my performance,” Erroll said.

“Your work is exemplary, but this is a bold move. What made you decide to try such a venture?”

“Astley began using threshers two years ago and Roberts and Binghamton each purchased one for their farms a year ago. Astley, alone, has increased productivity by twenty percent. If we can see similar success, we might be able to allocate more land for cattle.”

His father nodded. “We could employ more men to tend the cattle, and the sale of the wool will create work for tradesmen and merchants.”

“Exactly,” Erroll said.

“Have you plans as to who you would sell the wool to?”

“I do, but I want to see how much productivity is increased this first harvest before I get anyone’s hopes up. I hired an experienced rancher to oversee our dwindling cattle. If the herds increase then at the end of this season I can feel confident about buying more cattle.”

The marquess studied him. “You’re ambitious.”

Erroll shrugged. “I believe it is a necessity. Our people need work now, but that need will be greater when our men return from the war. However, we face the problem of them coming home to a world that is foreign to them due to these advancements.”

“Time has not passed them by that quickly in the last five years,” his father said.

“No, but Napoleon is far from being finished with us. By the time we cripple him, our laborers will be older and our business owners much more savvy. That spells trouble unless we prepare.”

His father nodded. “I see why you hesitate to be away. But I don’t think we face a great problem. Norfolk is a long way from London where the gossip will be centered. We can proceed as planned and, say, in a week or so, you can return to Norfolk with your bride. Your mother has already begun preparations for your marriage to Grace Crenshaw.”

That caught Erroll off guard. “You said either sister would do.”

“That was before I learned the elder daughter got herself with a bastard child.”

“You are mistaken, sir. She never bore a child.”

“The rumor is enough to ruin her for marriage. I expect you to marry a lady with an untarnished reputation.”

Erroll grunted. “That seems unfair, considering the tarnish on my reputation.”

“Men are forgiven such indiscretions. Though you have outdone yourself on that score. That aside, women are not permitted even a hint of scandal. The elder Miss Crenshaw has run off to Gretna with not one, but two men. Do you honestly want a woman of such low character for wife?”

“She did not run off with Halifax. He kidnapped her.”

“Indeed?” his father said in a soft voice, and Erroll knew the worst was yet to come. “Then she was in good company, as she is herself a kidnapper.”

“Beg pardon?” Erroll said.

“Do not toy with me, Erroll.”

“I can assure you, sir, I am not toying with you.”

“Then explain why she had you kidnapped.”