Page 11 of Rogue’s Holiday

“Anything.”

“The king tells me you are bound for Brighton. A holiday at the Royal Pavilion, as I understand it.”

Robbie nodded, wondering what she had in mind.

“My very good friend, Agatha, Lady Sanborn, lives in Brighton on the Old Steyne near the Pavilion. She informs me she is to have a guest for the summer season.” The countess paused, and then added, “Her grand-niece, Chastity, is a lively girl in need of watching.”

“Chastity?” Images of a pious young girl warred in his mind with a hoyden who “needed watching”.

Between sips of sherry, the countess said, “Miss Chastity Reynolds of Northampton, to be precise. Lady Sanborn tells me Chastity is an accomplished horsewoman even at her young age.”

Robbie’s brows drew together, puzzled. An accomplished horsewoman at such a young age? “What is it you want me to do?” Muriel dabbled in matchmaking with some notable successes. But surely a child was not among her projects.

“I want you to keep an eye on the girl, to make sure she does not find trouble or come to any harm. She cannot very well ride hell-for-leather across Brighton by herself. Perhaps you might escort her to a play or a ride along the shore. A handsome fellow like you would hold her girlish attentions.”

“Is there no nursemaid or governess?” Robbie had no desire to assume either role.

“No. She comes alone, although I understand she may be bringing a friend, a girl of a similar age. But Chastity is the one that must be looked after.” With a twinkle in her eye, she added, “Think of her as your ward for the Brighton Season.”

When he didn’t reply, the countess gazed up at him with a hopeful look in her soft gray eyes. “Won’t you do this for me?”

Robbie did not wish to be saddled with a rebellious child, but his family adored Muriel, who was a grand dame in London society. Moreover, he liked The Grand Countess. Perhaps he could indulge her. After all, how much of his time could a young girl take? A ride in his curricle, a walk along the seafront…he could manage those. “Yes, dear Countess, I will do it for you.”

“Splendid.” Muriel returned him a satisfied smile. “Now, how about another brandy?”