Hold on to your Dreams (19 page)

‘You’re very restless today, my dear. It’s a pleasant day so why don’t you go to the park? The trees will look lovely now.’

Catching a warning glance from her aunt, Gertrude sat down. ‘Sorry, Mother. I don’t know what to do with myself now you and Father don’t need me so much.’

‘With the order books filling nicely, he had to employ a qualified assistant.’ Florence smiled at her daughter. ‘You understand, don’t you?’

‘Of course, and I’m pleased people are beginning to order furniture again, but I enjoyed feeling useful. I’ve got to do something with my life.’

‘You will. You’ll get married and have a family of your own one day soon. Alexander is fond of you, and you were getting along splendidly at the ball.’

‘We’ve decided we can be friends.’ Her mother mustn’t
start worrying about that again, so she decided to put a stop to it right away. ‘That is all there can be between us. He’s going to marry Miriam Chester.’

‘Is he?’ Her mother frowned at Hanna. ‘Is that so?’

‘There’s a rumour going around to that effect.’

‘It’s more than a rumour, Aunt. David is sure the announcement is due any moment now.’

‘Ah, well, never mind, my dear, now we are attending social functions again you will soon meet someone else,’ Florence said confidently. ‘It’s time for my nap. I promised Sutton I would sleep for two hours every afternoon. He insists, even though I’ve told him I am quite well now.’

‘You’re still not as strong as you were.’ Hanna helped Florence out of the chair. ‘You must do as you’re told. Do you want me to come up with you?’

‘No, I’m quite capable of putting myself to bed. Don’t fuss.’

As soon as the door closed behind her mother, Gertrude sighed. ‘I need to do something, but I can’t decide. What do you think about nursing, or teaching, perhaps?’

‘No, dear, you’re too old to start a profession like that. You’ll be twenty-one in September, and it would take some time to qualify.’

‘What else is there? Don’t you have any ideas?’

‘Miss Melrose.’ The maid came into the sitting room. ‘Mr Glendale is here to see you.’

She looked up, surprised. ‘Send him in, please.’

‘I hope you will excuse my unexpected visit,’ he said, as soon as he entered the room. Then he smiled. ‘Hanna,
what a pleasure to see you again. I swear you grow more lovely every time we meet.’

‘Hello, Alex. Still as charming as ever, I see.’

A deep rumble of amusement ran through him. ‘I mean every word of it.’

‘Of course you do. Now, what brings you here?’

‘I’ve come to ask Gertie if she will do me a great favour.’ He turned his full attention to her. ‘I’m entertaining business acquaintances on Thursday evening, and I’m in need of a hostess. After dinner the men will be discussing business and the wives must be entertained. I’d be grateful if you would agree to do this for me.’

She was more than surprised by the request – she was stunned. ‘Shouldn’t you ask Miriam Chester?’

‘No, it wouldn’t be proper for her to do it, but it’s quite in order for me to ask a friend to act as hostess for me. And as my agent, David will also be present.’

What he was saying made sense. It would cause much speculation if Miriam Chester did something like this before an engagement was announced. All London was buzzing with speculation, but if she and David helped Alex out it would not be thought too unusual.

He waited while she thought it over, then he said, ‘Will you do this for me, Gertie? It’s absolutely necessary that the ladies be looked after while the men talk. It’s short notice, and I have to find someone quickly.’

He’d used her shortened name to emphasise their new friendship, and she wanted to do this, to be a part of his life, even if it was only for one evening. ‘I’ll be pleased to keep the ladies entertained, Alex.’

‘Thank you.’ He smiled. ‘That is such a relief! Could you come to my home tomorrow afternoon? We need to make sure you know where everything is.’

‘I’ll be there.’

‘Alex?’ Hanna frowned at him. ‘You appear to consider this arrangement quite acceptable. I’m not so sure.’

‘As I’ve said, David will also be there. I would never do anything to harm Gertie’s excellent reputation.’ The corners of his mouth turned up in amusement. ‘You wound me. Don’t you think I can be trusted?’

‘Of course you can’t! Don’t forget I remember the young man who was always in trouble.’

They both burst out laughing and Gertrude watched in fascination. It was as if layers were being peeled away from the man she’d considered stern and unfeeling. The result was enough to take her breath away.

‘I shall take good care of your niece, and make sure no harm comes to her – ever.’ The last word was said quietly. ‘That’s what friends do, and I mean what I say.’

Her aunt nodded. ‘I’ve never known you to break your word. That’s always been your code.’ She studied him closely. ‘I’m pleased to see you looking happy and relaxed again.’

‘I’ve laid a few ghosts, but it took me a while.’ He glanced over at Gertrude. ‘Come when it suits you tomorrow. I shall be there all afternoon.’

‘Will two o’clock be all right?’

‘Perfect. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have another appointment.’

Gertrude saw him out, and when she returned to the
sitting room, her aunt was shaking her head.

‘Watch him! There’s a gleam of devilment in his eyes I haven’t seen for a long time. It makes we wonder what he’s up to.’

‘What do you mean?’

‘I can’t quite work out what’s happened, but the change in him is too sudden. I’ve seen this innocent look many times before, and when it happens, it’s time to be on your guard.’

‘Oh, Aunt,’ Gertrude laughed, ‘you’re imagining things. He isn’t a boy now, and I expect he’s happy because he’s found the woman he loves and wants to marry.’

‘Hmm. Yes, I do believe he has.’

‘Sorry I’m late, David.’ Alex strode into the office. ‘I had something urgent to arrange before I came here.’

Millie peered in through the open door. ‘Hello, sir. We had a lovely time at your dance.’

‘I’m pleased you enjoyed it. You and Fred looked splendid.’

‘Not bad, eh?’ She grinned. ‘You want tea, Mr Gardener?’

‘Alex?’

He shook his head. ‘No time, I want you to come and have a look at something with me. It’s only a short walk from here.’

It wasn’t easy keeping up with the long stride of the man beside him. David was only slightly shorter than Alex, but there was an air of excitement about him, and he was moving with speed.

‘I can’t wait to show you this. It’s a real find, but don’t look too enthusiastic when we get there or they’ll put up the price.’

‘Another ship?’

‘Yes.’ Alex stopped suddenly and pointed towards a dry dock.

‘You’re joking!’ David couldn’t believe his eyes. They were in a run down part of the docks, and the ship was a wreck.

‘Don’t overdo the lack of enthusiasm,’ Alex joked. ‘Come on, let’s go on board.’

‘Is it safe?’

‘She isn’t in the water. She isn’t going to sink.’

‘No, but she will if you try to float her.’ He grimaced in disgust.

‘I agree she does need a bit of work done on her.’

‘It’ll take more than a bit to make her seaworthy again. She’s a three mast schooner, and hardly suitable as a cargo vessel these days.’

‘I don’t want her for that.’

‘Oh, good!’

A laugh rumbled through Alex. ‘Keep up the disapproving act. Here comes Mr Stewart.’

‘It’s no act,’ David muttered.

‘Nice to see you again, Mr Glendale.’

They shook hands. ‘This is my agent, Mr Gardener. I’ve brought him along to see
Ocean Sprite
.’

David turned a snort of amusement into a cough. What a name for a ship that looked as if a puff of wind would reduce it to dust.

‘Of course. She’s been neglected, but is quite sound, and it won’t take much to make her a fine ship again. Really majestic she looked under full sail.’

After another glance round David was pursing his lips. He didn’t believe a word the owner said. And what the blazes was Alex going to do with a sailing ship?

There wasn’t much David didn’t know about ships. He’d grown up following his father around the docks, and learning all he could about the construction and running of every kind of ship there was. The next hour was spent going over every inch of the crumbling wreck, and his disbelief turned to horror as he tapped and probed. True, the hull did appear to be solid enough, but the rest of the ship was in a dreadful state. The masts were still there, but the sails and all the rigging had rotted long ago. He loved all ships and it saddened him to see this one being allowed to get into such a deplorable state.

They finally went up on deck, brushing the dirt from their clothing.

‘What do you think of her?’ Alex asked. ‘You haven’t said a word. The only sounds I’ve heard from you have been grunts and unintelligible mutters.’

David went to lean on the rail and thought better of it. ‘She’ll cost a fortune to put right, but she’s in a more seaworthy condition than I first thought.’

‘So you believe she could sail again?’

‘Yes, with a lot of work and money, but I can’t understand what you want her for.’

‘I’ll tell you my plans later. Get her for me, and I’ll see you back in the office.’

He watched in amazement as Alex made his way off the ship. No mention of the price he was willing to pay. Working as his agent was certainly not dull.

Mr Stewart came up to stand beside him, and they both watched the retreating figure.

‘Does Mr Glendale still want to buy her?’

‘He’s left the decision to me.’ David made a show of removing dust from his jacket sleeve. ‘Do you have somewhere cleaner we could go to discuss business?’

‘There’s a hut over there I use as an office.’

It took David less than an hour to negotiate a deal with the owner. He clearly wanted to be rid of the wreck and took a ridiculously low price. But the man was no fool. He owned the dry dock and knew the ship must stay there while extensive work was carried out on her. He was tougher over the price of that, but David was well pleased with the terms in the end. At least he hadn’t wasted too much of Alex’s money.

He walked into his office and handed over the sale papers to Alex, who read them and grinned in approval. ‘I knew you’d be better at this than me. Well done!’

‘Will you now tell me what you want her for?’

‘I’m going to restore her, then hire her out. There are plenty of wealthy businessmen who would enjoy a cruise on her. But for several weeks every summer children from the deprived areas can sail in her under the guidance of an experienced crew.’

‘That’s a wonderful idea!’ David could suddenly see the old ship in a different light, but he still had reservations. ‘It
will cost a fortune to get her back to that standard, though.’

Alex sat back, a gleam in his eyes. ‘On Thursday I’m entertaining a couple of wealthy men, and I’ll offer them a share in the project.’

‘What if they’re not interested? You’ve bought her now.’

‘They will be.’

David laughed. ‘I wish I had your confidence.’

‘You’ll pull it off.’ Alex stood up and slapped him on the back.

‘Me?’ he gasped.

‘You’re the most skilled negotiator I’ve ever met. Even better than me, and your knowledge of ships is much greater than mine.’ He removed his pocket watch and flipped it open. ‘Time we were on our way. We have another appointment.’

‘Who with?’ He was still trying to digest the remark about his skills.

‘Gertie. She’s going to act as hostess at our business dinner.’

This was becoming more bizarre by the minute. What on earth was the man doing? ‘Have you asked her?’

‘Of course.’ He strode out to the waiting carriage. ‘And she’s agreed.’

‘I don’t believe this.’ David climbed in after Alex. ‘Why would she?’

‘Because we’re friends.’ Alex smiled at the confusion on his companion’s face.

‘She agreed because you’re friends?’

‘Hmm.’

‘You look lovely, my dear.’

‘Do you think so, Father?’ Gertrude smoothed the skirt of her gown, wishing she’d never agreed to do this. She had been so stunned by Alex’s request she hadn’t given it enough thought before answering.

Her father took her by the shoulders and turned her to face him. ‘I wish we could have bought you a new gown, darling, but it just isn’t possible at the moment. Business is picking up, but there isn’t money to spare.’

‘I know, and I’m not worried about wearing something I already have. I doubt anyone there will have seen me before. Alex knows our situation and won’t be expecting me to turn up in an up-to-date creation.’ She gave a hesitant smile. ‘I’m regretting ever saying I’d do this. I can’t think why he asked me.’

‘This dinner must be important to him and he wanted
the best person by his side. You can converse on many subjects and will be able to keep the ladies amused while the men are discussing business.’ Her father smiled wryly. ‘These kind of meetings can take some time, you know, and Alex can trust you.’

‘I do believe you’re prejudiced,’ she laughed.

‘Of course I am. You’re my daughter and I’m allowed to be proud of you. Now, your mother and Hanna are in the sitting room, so go and show them how elegant you are.’

There was only time for a brief examination before the carriage arrived, and as she drove away with their comments of approval ringing in her ears, she was determined to make a success of the evening. Alex wouldn’t have asked her if he’d had any doubts about her suitability. And David would be there to support her through dinner.

She sat back and relaxed. Of course she could do this. Her mother and aunt had trained her well in etiquette. There was no need to worry.

The butler was waiting for her. ‘Good evening, Miss Melrose. I’m to take you to the study before the guests arrive.’

She followed him along the passage until he opened a door at the end and announced her.

‘Good evening, Gertie.’

‘Good evening, Alex.’ His careful scrutiny made her want to fidget, but she refused to show any discomfort. He looked splendid in his evening clothes, so she studied him in the same way, and saw his lips twitch at the corners.

‘That shade of violet matches your eyes perfectly.’ He nodded in approval.

‘Thank you. The black you are wearing makes your eyes look like the colour of grass.’

He tipped his head back and laughed. ‘Now that we have the compliments out of the way, is there anything you wish to know before everyone arrives?’

‘You haven’t told me who’s coming.’

‘David, two businessmen, their wives and one daughter.’

‘Do I know them?’

‘You met them at the ball.’ He opened a drawer in his desk and removed an old black box. He opened it, studied the contents for a moment, then said, ‘Ah, yes, this will be perfect.’

She watched him remove the contents and walk towards her.

‘Turn around.’

She couldn’t see what he was holding, but obeyed without question. Something cold slipped around her neck, then he turned her to face him again, stepping back so he could see properly.

‘Beautiful.’

Catching a glimpse of herself in the mirror over the fireplace, she gasped when she saw the necklace. It was an exquisite amethyst and diamond pendant on a thick gold chain. ‘I can’t wear this!’

‘Why not? It was my mother’s, and it goes well with your gown. It would please me greatly if you would wear it tonight.’

There had been a note of pain in his voice, and his gaze was fixed on the necklace. He wanted her to wear it and she couldn’t refuse. Touching it with her fingers, she
said, ‘Thank you. I’ll be honoured to wear your mother’s necklace.’

Smiling, he held out his arm. ‘Let us join David in the lounge. Our guests will be arriving any minute now.’

Mr and Mrs Broughton were the first to arrive. She knew them only by sight, and the wife hung back nervously. Shy in company, Gertrude noted at once, so she made a point of putting her at ease.

The next arrivals shocked her. It was Lord and Lady Chester, accompanied by their daughter. She knew David had also been taken by surprise, because she heard his sharp intake of breath.

The conversation at dinner was wide ranging, covering politics, the war with the Boers, the aged Queen Victoria, and many other subjects. Gertie found she was thoroughly enjoying her role as hostess and had quickly recovered from her surprise at seeing Miriam Chester. Of course she would be here; it was only to be expected.

As soon as the meal was over, the men retired, leaving her to do the job she was here for. It was easy with such a small gathering, and even Mrs Broughton relaxed enough to join in. At one point Miriam sat next to her.

‘I believe you know Mr Gardener well,’ she said.

‘Yes, we’ve been friends since we were toddlers.’ She grinned. ‘At least I was a toddler. I followed David and my brother around like a puppy dog. My brother was always trying to get rid of me, but David wouldn’t let him. He’s always been my dearest friend.’

‘He seems a kind man.’

‘He is one of the kindest.’ It was an intriguing
conversation. For someone who was about to become engaged to another man this interest in David was strange. She spent a while longer talking about their childhood, then, aware of her duty, moved on to the other ladies.

When the men returned, the women were all laughing as she told them about the dusty old bookshop, and the grumpy owner.

It wasn’t possible to tell if the business had gone well, but they all appeared to be in a good mood. That could be because of the amount of brandy they had consumed, of course. David did look stunned, though, making her wonder just what had gone on in the other room.

The guests left after another hour, and it was only when they were alone that Alex gave a satisfied smile. ‘Well done, David. You put our case so expertly even I was prepared to give you money.’

‘I don’t believe what happened.’ He shook his head as if trying to clear it. ‘I need a brandy. Are you trying to make me a rich man, Alex?’

‘Do you object?’ Alex handed him a glass filled with a generous amount of brandy. ‘You seem to be quite unaware of your talents, but I saw them early on, and am very pleased to have you working with me.’

She watched the interplay between the two men she loved, and saw how at ease they were with each other. It was clear that not only were they a good partnership, but they had become friends as well, and that made her happy. She was seething with curiosity, though, and longed to know what this was all about.

‘I’ve received many compliments about you, Gertie,’
Alex told her. ‘Mr Broughton was particularly impressed. He said he’d never seen his wife enjoying herself so much. She’s often uneasy in company. You’ve been the perfect hostess, and I’m grateful.’

‘I enjoyed myself.’

‘Good. Now, I expect you’d like to know what this evening was about?’

‘I’m curious, of course, but it isn’t any of my business.’

‘Ah, but it is because we’re going to need your help, aren’t we, David?’

‘We’re going to need all the help we can get.’ He downed his drink and shuddered as the fiery liquid went down. ‘It’s a crazy scheme, Gertie, but if it’s a success … you tell her Alex.’

As the story of the ship unfolded she became excited, sitting on the edge of her seat. By the time he’d finished, she could hardly contain herself. ‘That’s fantastic! The children would be given a chance to test their abilities, and grow in confidence. Can you do it? How would you choose the children? What age limit would you want? When would you get an experienced crew?’

‘Whoa.’ Alex held up his hands. ‘One question at a time. Once the work is nearing completion we would advertise for a crew, and test each applicant to make sure they were suitable. It’s a large ship and they will have to be the most experienced we can get. The boys will only be eligible if they come from deprived families. I think from the age of eight, but that would depend on each boy.’

‘Only boys? What about the girls?’

‘We can’t allow girls on the cruises,’ David pointed out. ‘It wouldn’t be safe for them.’

‘I agree, but we should arrange something for the girls,’ Alex said. ‘What do you think they’d enjoy, Gertie?’

‘Something in the country.’ She gazed into space, trying to imagine what they would find exciting. ‘What about somewhere they could be with animals, and perhaps learn to ride a horse?’

‘A riding school! That’s an excellent idea.’ Alex began to pace, thinking things through. ‘I already have a farm where we breed warhorses for the cavalry, but there’s plenty of room, and we could buy docile horses and ponies. What do you think, David?’

‘Sounds good, but the children will have to be housed and looked after.’

‘There’s a large, unused barn which could be turned into living quarters, but we must go and have a look at the place. Next Friday suit you, David?’

He nodded, marvelling again at Alex’s energy. He certainly didn’t believe in wasting time. ‘One of your ships is due in, but I’m not expecting her for at least another two weeks. If she should arrive while we’re away, my father will see to it for us.’

‘That’s excellent.’ Alex spun round. ‘I’d like you to come with us, Gertie. You know what the children need, and your advice will be valuable.’

‘I’d love to if you think I can help.’

‘Excellent! I shall, of course, ask your parents’ permission for you to accompany us.’

‘It might be an idea to take Millie with us as a companion for Gertie,’ David suggested.

‘Will your father manage without her for a few days?’

‘I’m sure he will.’

Alex rang the bell for the butler, and then smiled at Gertrude. ‘We’ve kept you up late enough. Thank you for helping the evening run smoothly. David will give you details of our journey to Kent when the arrangements are made. Ah, Hunt, Miss Melrose is leaving.’

‘The carriage is ready and waiting, sir.’

‘Ask Dickens to take Mr Gardener home as well, after he’s delivered Miss Melrose safely to her door.’

‘Yes, sir.’

She was in the hall before she remembered the necklace. Quickly unfastening it, she handed it to Alex. ‘Thank you for allowing me to wear this. It’s absolutely beautiful.’

He bowed his head in acknowledgement and slipped the jewels into his pocket. ‘Goodnight.’

Once in the carriage, she couldn’t wait to ask, ‘What did you mean when you said Alex was trying to make you rich?’

‘He’s given me an equal share in the boat, and if the venture is successful, it could be very profitable. And if it isn’t, then I’ll have lost nothing. Alex, Lord Chester and Mr Broughton are to meet all the renovation costs, but Alex insisted I be listed as a partner because I have the expertise needed to see the ship is made seaworthy again.’

‘And he’s quite right. You know a great deal about ships. It’s been your whole life, and I’m so pleased for you.
Alex wouldn’t have taken this on if he didn’t believe it was a sound idea, so I’m sure it will be a success.’

‘And that isn’t all.’ He reached out for her hands. ‘We’re going to need carpenters for at least a year – the best in the business. Your father has those, and we’re going to see him in the morning. This could change everything for you.’

‘Oh, my,’ was all she could say.

Her father was fast asleep in a chair by the fire when she arrived home. He looked so peaceful it was a shame to wake him, and she decided not to mention the ship. Alex would do that in the morning, and be able to explain exactly what he wanted. If she told him now he wouldn’t sleep for the rest of the night. If David was right, this could be the turning point for them, but she didn’t dare let her hopes rise too much. She’d learnt how quickly things could go wrong. This scheme was imaginative, but she must also remember that it was also risky. But if it was a success, it would mean a great deal to so many people, and she was so excited to have been included. She’d been looking for something to occupy her time, and this would be perfect.

‘Father.’ She shook him gently. When he opened his eyes, she scolded, ‘You should be in bed.’

He straightened up. ‘I wanted to see you safely home before I retired. How did the evening go?’

‘Very well. I really quite enjoyed it, and Alex said he was pleased. I was disconcerted when Miriam Chester arrived with her parents, but she was very sweet, and I expect Alex told her I would be acting as his hostess because she didn’t seem surprised to see me.’ She yawned. ‘But I’m tired now.’

‘Time we were both in bed. I’m pleased everything went well. Perhaps he’ll ask you again.’

‘I doubt that, Father. This evening was a special dinner, and he didn’t have much time to arrange for someone to help with the ladies.’

There was so much more she could have told him, but he would hear the whole story soon. Tonight they both needed their rest because it would be an exciting day tomorrow.