Secret Heiress (14 page)

‘I do need some shoes,' Eliza said. ‘I may look and see what I can find.'

‘It occurs to me that I have not yet given you your wages, Eliza. Please look in the top drawer of the
dressing chest and bring me the box you will find there.'

‘You have already given me so much,' Eliza protested. ‘I consider myself well paid for what little I do.'

‘Nonsense. The clothes are my gift to you.'

Eliza fetched the box and Lady Sarah took out three gold guineas, handing them to her.

‘I am sure it should only be two guineas, ma'am.'

‘That was when I did not know you. I want you to be happy with me, Eliza, and you need money to buy the things necessary for your stay here. Please run along now, my dear. I shall summon my maid in a few moments.'

‘Yes, ma'am.'

Eliza's heart ached. She wished now that she had shown the ring to Lady Sarah. She was certain her employer would have been honest with her either way and she would not now be in this turmoil.

 

After leaving Lady Sarah to rest, Eliza picked up the parcel of books and went out. As she left the house, she noticed a man standing on the other side of the road. He seemed to be staring at the windows, but as he saw her, he turned away. She frowned, but decided that he was merely loitering.

She returned the books to the lending library, picked up some medicine for Lady Sarah, and visited a shop selling good quality shoes, buying a pair of smart boots with shiny buttons that would replace her old ones for walking out. As she left the shop and turned to her right, she saw a group of ladies and gentlemen approaching.

‘Miss Bancroft,' she was addressed by Susanne Roberts. ‘Have you been shopping?'

‘Good afternoon, Miss Roberts. Yes, I have been buying some shoes.'

‘You will be able to buy whatever you need now, I suppose,' the girl said with a sneer on her lips. ‘How fortunate for you to be taken up by Lady Sarah. She treats you almost as a daughter, does she not?'

The words were accompanied by a snigger that made Eliza's blood run cold. She saw the spiteful look that accompanied the comment and knew that the other girl disliked her very much. Perhaps she blamed her because Lord Seaton had not come up to scratch?

‘I am indeed fortunate in my employer,' Eliza replied with dignity. ‘Excuse me, I must get home.'

‘It would not do to keep your…benefactor waiting. You might lose a fortune…'

Eliza's face was hot, but she refused to be drawn by the girl's spiteful words. ‘Miss Roberts, I wish you good day.'

She walked on by, her head held high. Inside, she was seething with anger, but she was glad that she had not let herself reply unwisely. She was unaware that one of Miss Roberts's party had broken away and was following her until the man came up with her.

‘That was uncalled for,' he said as he drew level. ‘I hope you will not think that everyone in Bath is so unkind, Miss Bancroft.'

‘Miss Roberts may be feeling a little out of sorts. I dare say she did not mean to be so…rude.'

‘Oh, I think she did. She was expecting Lord Seaton to propose until you arrived. I imagine her pride has received a setback.'

‘It is not for us to speculate on Miss Roberts's hopes and dreams, Mr Carstairs. Please excuse me, I must get home.'

He placed a hand on her arm, detaining her. ‘No need to get on your high horse, Miss Bancroft. I was just trying to be friendly.'

‘Thank you, but I am in a hurry.'

She pulled away from him, and saw his quick frown. ‘You may inherit Lady Sarah's money when she dies, but Seaton may not be as wealthy as you think…'

Eliza pretended not to hear as she walked on quickly. If this was what she could expect from Bath society, she would be glad to leave. Her eyes stung, but she would not give way to tears of self-pity. It made her cringe to imagine what people were saying of her. Perhaps not everyone was as spiteful as Miss Roberts, but they must all be thinking the same thing.

Feeling upset, Eliza did not notice the man following her.

Her thoughts were distressing, going round and round in her mind as she walked home, her shadow staying just a short distance behind her. Did everyone imagine that she was a designing hussy after Lady Sarah's fortune? She knew the marquis imagined her to be an adventuress. Even Daniel had seemed angered by the rumours. Surely he could not think her so mercenary?

It was a lowering thought and one that upset her far more than Miss Roberts's spiteful words. She wished he was here in Bath with her, instead of away with his friend Hastings. He was perhaps the one person in Bath she could tell about the ring the marquis had taken from her.

 

Their business with the horses was soon done. Daniel had advised his friend to buy the best three mares, a fine stallion with devil eyes and a wicked temper, and a thoroughbred he believed had potential on the racecourse.

‘The chestnut has potential,' Daniel said. ‘It is Irish bred, and though you must take what the seller told you with a pinch of salt, I believe you could have a race winner.'

‘The fellow swore it was faster than the wind,' Jack said and laughed. ‘I shall probably find it is as sluggish as they come and a complete dud, but the mares and that stallion should be good stock.'

‘I will wager that the chestnut wins the first race you enter it in at Newmarket.'

‘I'll take you up on that,' Jack seized the challenge instantly. ‘A hundred guineas it comes last.'

‘I'll wager a thousand that it wins.' Daniel grinned at him. ‘Put a thousand guineas on it to win for me and I'll pay you from my winnings.'

‘You are on,' Jack said and clapped him on the shoulder. ‘I suppose I must turn my mind to other matters now. I danced with Marianne Cheadle the other evening. I swear she is the only girl for me, Daniel. Mother has picked out two other pretty girls she thinks suitable, but I cannot think of anyone but Marianne.'

‘I believe her family expect an offer from Accrington,' Daniel said. ‘If I felt as you do, Jack, I should ask her as soon as we return to Bath. If you leave it, you may be too late.'

‘Supposing she turns me down?'

‘At least you will know the truth. There is no sense in mooning after her, man. Ask her and be done with it.'

‘Yes, you are right,' Jack said and laughed. ‘Nothing ventured, nothing gained. What do I owe you for your advice—about the horses?'

‘Nothing at all. I hope it was sound—and that the chestnut is what I suspect.'

‘Well, we'll soon know. I'll send the horse down to Newmarket with my trainer and we'll give it a try.'

‘Do not forget to put that thousand guineas on for me.'

Daniel knew the bet was reckless, but he could cover the bet by the sale of some heirlooms if necessary, jewels left him by his grandmother and deposited in the bank. The remainder of his debts were more difficult. He was beginning to feel that he would have to sell the estate before everything was lost. He supposed that he might buy himself some colours and make his life in the army. He had found it suited him when he served with Wellington, but an army life might not suit Eliza.

He had been toying with the idea of making her an offer. The rumours flying round Bath must have made her position difficult; he had been angry when he discovered what the malicious tongues were saying, especially when he had seen the distinct likeness between her and Marianne Cheadle.

Had Cheadle seen it—and what would he do about it? Daniel was certain the marquis would never acknowledge the relationship. The mystery of Eliza's birth mother remained.

Was it possible that she was Lady Sarah's daughter? He had thought it just a rumour, but for once the gossips might have it right.

Perhaps he ought to bring this business of his cousin's death to a conclusion before he spoke to Eliza. If Marcus had been murdered, the man responsible would not like Daniel's agent poking about—and his own life could be in danger. It would be best to exercise caution for the moment, because he did not wish to endanger Eliza's life.

The thought chilled him. Until this moment he had
not considered that his investigations could endanger anyone but himself. He would need to keep his wits about him—and he certainly could not risk speaking to Eliza for the moment. He must continue as her friend, but nothing more.

‘A
re you certain you feel able to attend Marianne Cheadle's ball this evening?' Eliza asked some days after the unpleasant interview with the marquis. ‘I should be quite happy to stay at home and read a book if you are in the least tired.'

‘What foolishness is this?' Lady Sarah smiled at her as they parted to change their gowns. ‘You should wear your new yellow gown this evening, Eliza. I am pleased that
madame
managed to get it ready in time. You have worn the white twice to the assembly and it is right that you should have a new one for your first private ball.'

‘You are so generous,' Eliza felt her throat tighten with unshed tears, but she smiled through them. She had felt more and more emotional these past few days, because she could not help noticing that Lady Sarah seemed frailer than she had at first.

‘I like you to look well,' Lady Sarah said and patted her arm. ‘If I found my daughter, I should hope that she was as caring and kind as you, Eliza.'

Eliza had to blink back her tears. She must control her emotions and her tears. She longed to tell her employer that she had grown very fond of her, but the marquis would disapprove if he saw any sign that their relationship had grown closer.

Her situation was difficult, but she was determined to put on a brave face. It was important that nothing should distress Lady Sarah. Eliza would bear anything but being a cause of harm to the woman she now thought of as her true mother.

 

They were greeted by Lady Cheadle and Marianne when they arrived at the ball. The marquis was talking with other guests and did not immediately notice them, but Marianne was friendly.

‘I am so glad to see you, Miss Bancroft,' she said. ‘I shall hope to have time for a few words in private later.'

Eliza thanked her and moved on into the first reception room. Catching sight of the marquis at that moment, Eliza saw him frown at her and shivered. She sensed that he was angry because she had not taken his advice to leave Bath.

She had shown him her ring on impulse, but now regretted not keeping it hidden. She had been happy with Lady Sarah and in her heart she knew that the chances of finding her mother had always been slim. It would have been better not to quarrel with the marquis.

Ignoring his angry look, Eliza made her way towards where Lady Julia and Kate were standing, talking to some other friends. They greeted her warmly and Kate took her arm, drawing her towards the ballroom. Almost immediately, both girls were besieged by gentlemen asking for dances. It was clear that the rumours flying
around Bath had not harmed Eliza's reputation as far as the gentlemen were concerned. Indeed, one or two of them were if anything more attentive to her. She was determined to enjoy herself, putting the knowledge of the marquis's displeasure to the back of her mind.

 

It was about halfway through the evening when Daniel appeared in the ballroom. Eliza saw him dance with Marianne Cheadle and Susanne Roberts, and then, at last, when she had almost given up hope of his approaching her, he wandered over just before the dance before supper.

‘Miss Bancroft,' he said. ‘May I dare to hope that you have a free dance this evening?'

Eliza's heart jerked, as she was obliged to shake her head. ‘I am sorry, my lord, my card is full. I did not know if you were attending this evening.'

‘I was not sure myself,' he told her with an odd smile. ‘If you have no free dances, perhaps I may take you into supper?'

‘If you could secure a table by the window for Lady Sarah and myself, we should be grateful. It is warm in here and a little fresh air would be welcome.'

‘It shall be as you ask. I regret that I shall not have the privilege of dancing with you this evening. Perhaps another time?'

She nodded her head to him as a young man presented himself for the next dance. Smiling, she gave him her hand, feeling a pang of regret as they walked away. When she looked back there was no sign of Daniel. However, when she accompanied Lady Sarah into the supper room, a waiter came to direct them to a pleasant table by the window.

‘What can I fetch for you, Lady Sarah?' Eliza asked. ‘Would you care for some chicken?'

‘Something small,' Lady Sarah replied, but even as Eliza prepared to fetch something from the tasty nibbles on display, a waiter appeared with a selection of dishes. He was followed to the table by Daniel, who was carrying a silver wine bucket filled with ice and a bottle of champagne.

He nodded to the waiter, who set the dishes down, then deposited his wine bucket. ‘May I tempt you to some champagne, ladies?'

‘Thank you, Lord Seaton,' Lady Sarah said and gave him a chiding look. ‘I have been expecting you for some days. I think you have forgotten me.'

‘No, I assure you, ma'am,' Daniel said and smiled. ‘I have been delayed by business, but I shall visit without fail tomorrow—at what hour would you wish me to call?'

‘Would two in the afternoon be convenient? I do not rise before noon these days.'

‘It will be quite convenient,' Daniel replied and glanced at Eliza. ‘Perhaps you might care to ride one morning, Miss Bancroft?'

‘Thank you, sir. Perhaps the day after tomorrow,' Eliza said.

‘I shall arrange for the horses.'

She sipped her drink and then ate one of the delicious morsels the waiter had brought for them. Lady Sarah toyed with a tiny salmon parcel and drank some water. She glanced up as the marquis came to their table.

‘Lady Sarah, Seaton…Miss Bancroft,' the marquis said and glared at Eliza. ‘I trust you are enjoying your evening?'

‘Thank you, sir,' Lady Sarah murmured. ‘We
have been royally entertained, have we not, Eliza my dear?'

‘Yes, ma'am,' Eliza answered, but without looking at the marquis. She dipped her gaze, but when she glanced up the marquis had moved on. Daniel looked at her curiously, bringing warmth to her cheeks. She turned to Lady Sarah. ‘Would you excuse me for a moment, Lady Sarah? I think I must go to the rest room.'

‘Of course, please do,' Lady Sarah said. ‘I may follow in a moment, but I wish for a few words with Lord Seaton.'

Eliza left the table and made her way through the room. She went up the stairs to the room set aside for ladies. There she tidied her hair, glanced in the mirror, availed herself of various facilities and left, intending to go back to Lady Sarah.

As she walked along the hall, she saw the marquis approaching. Since there was no way she could avoid him, she lifted her head, telling herself to be calm and answer politely whatever was said to her. However, before she realised what he was about, he seized her wrist and dragged her into one of the other bedrooms, shutting the door and standing in front of it to prevent her leaving.

‘Why have you brought me here?'

‘Why did you ignore my advice to leave Bath?' he countered, glaring at her. ‘What can you hope to gain by staying here now? I have the ring and shall not return it to you—though I have no idea how you obtained it. Tell me, did you steal it from someone?'

‘I was only made aware of its existence just before my mama's death. She told me that she had discovered the ring tucked into my baby clothes. I know nothing
more—and I should be glad if you would return the ring to me, sir. It is precious to me.'

‘I have not yet managed to verify your story, but be certain I shall find you out if you are lying.'

‘I had no reason to lie to you. I have stayed for Lady Sarah's sake, because she needs me.' Eliza lifted her head, challenging him. ‘If you truly believed I was lying, I think you would have spoken to Lady Sarah before this, sir. Why are you so afraid of the truth? Believe me, I have no desire to claim kinship with you, sir.'

‘Indeed?' His eyes narrowed. ‘Surely you wish for something from me—should I acknowledge that your story is true?'

‘No, sir. I wish for nothing from you,' Eliza replied coldly. ‘If you please, I should like to leave. Lady Sarah will be looking for me.'

‘Go, then,' he muttered. ‘Be warned that if any of this comes out it will be the worse for you.'

Eliza inclined her head. He stood aside and she opened the door and went out. She almost bumped into Daniel, who put out a hand to steady her.

‘Oh, forgive me. I did not see you.' She blinked because her eyes stung with tears.

‘Are you all right, Eliza? You look upset…' He took hold of her wrist, delaying her, and was about to say more when the bedroom door opened again and the marquis came out. He looked shocked to see that Eliza was still standing there with Daniel. ‘What is going on?' Daniel's eyes narrowed in suspicion. ‘Why were you in that room with Cheadle? Eliza—has he harmed you?'

‘No, please. He has not harmed me…I must go.' She pulled free of him and fled down the hall, leaving the marquis and Daniel facing each other.

‘Damn you, Cheadle,' Daniel said furiously. ‘If you
have done anything to harm Miss Bancroft, you will meet me…'

‘Do not be a damned idiot,' the marquis said. ‘You are far out in your thinking if you imagine that I have seduced her. It is a very different matter.'

‘If I thought that, you would be lying on the floor at this moment,' Daniel replied through gritted teeth. ‘Do not fool yourself into thinking I have not noticed a likeness between Miss Marianne and Miss Bancroft, Cheadle. You may think it slight, but I saw it and, believe me, it is only a matter of time before others see it too.'

‘It is as I imagined. That masquerade with the hold-up was a part of your feud with me,' Cheadle growled. ‘You saw the inscription in my ring and she showed you hers—and the two of you planned this together in the hope of blackmailing me, though how you knew that Sarah…' He broke off as he realised that he had betrayed himself. ‘You are a rogue and she is your accomplice.'

‘Whatever I may be, Miss Bancroft is innocent,' Daniel replied angrily. He reached out and slapped the marquis across the face with a white glove used for dancing. ‘You may name your seconds, sir.'

The marquis glared at him. ‘Do you deny that you were the rogue that held my coach up recently? Revenge for your father or cousin, I suppose?'

‘Whatever I may have done, you are wrong to suspect Miss Bancroft of duplicity,' Daniel said stiffly. ‘Do you accept my challenge?'

‘If you wish to make a fool of yourself,' Cheadle said. ‘I choose pistols and I warn you that I have a deadly aim.' He inclined his head. ‘My seconds will call on you in the morning.'

‘I name Jack Hastings and Robert Milton as my seconds. I am certain they will oblige me. Good evening, sir.'

Daniel turned on his heel and walked past the marquis. He went down the stairs and out of the house. He had come only for the purpose of dancing with Eliza and had no wish to stay a moment longer. He had not been wrong in his suspicions. Eliza and Marianne Cheadle were half-sisters. The marquis was Eliza's father—but who was her mother?

The gossipmongers had it that Eliza was Lady Sarah's lovechild and from Cheadle's careless slip it would appear that the rumour was true.

Did Eliza suspect the truth? Did Lady Sarah know her companion was her daughter?

She had asked him to call the next day. He was not sure why, but would discover the reason soon enough.

 

Unaware that a challenge to a duel had been issued, Eliza made her way back to Lady Sarah. They had decided that they would stay for half an hour after supper, and after making sure that Lady Sarah was comfortable, Eliza danced twice more.

She had asked one of the maids to fetch both her and Lady Sarah's cloak when Marianne Cheadle came up to her.

‘Are you leaving already, Eliza? I hope I may call you by your name? I have felt that we could be friends…' Marianne blushed. ‘Would you meet me tomorrow afternoon please? I need to talk to someone in confidence—and you are the only person I feel I can confide in.'

‘Yes, of course, if you wish,' Eliza replied. She remembered that Daniel was calling on Lady Sarah at two and nodded. ‘Shall we meet at two—near the
lending library? There is a little shop across the road where we could have tea and cakes.'

‘Oh, yes, I know it well,' Marianne said and looked relieved. ‘Thank you so much. I do not wish to impose—but I do need to talk to someone urgently.'

‘I shall be there at two tomorrow,' Eliza promised and on impulse leaned forwards to kiss her cheek. ‘Do not look so anxious. If I can help you at all, I shall.'

‘Thank you, Eliza.' Marianne pressed her hand. ‘I must go, for my partner will be looking for me. I shall see you tomorrow.'

‘Yes…' Eliza parted from her as the cloaks were brought, then helped Lady Sarah to put hers on before they left the house together.

‘I saw you with Marianne,' Lady Sarah said, looking at her a little oddly. ‘She is a pretty girl, is she not? Do you get on well together?'

‘Yes, I think so,' Eliza replied. ‘I am to meet her tomorrow afternoon at the same time as Lord Seaton is calling on you, ma'am. I hope that will not inconvenience you?'

‘No, of course not.' Lady Sarah looked thoughtful. ‘You told me your mama died a few months before you placed that advertisement, Eliza. I did not ask you many questions—were you an only child?'

‘Yes, ma'am,' Eliza dug her nails into her hands. ‘As far as I know…'

Lady Sarah turned her head to stare at her. ‘What can you mean by that, Eliza?'

‘I was adopted, ma'am. I do not know who my real parents were. The Reverend Bancroft found me in the church one Sunday morning.'

‘Indeed?' Lady Sarah gave a little gasp in the darkness. ‘Why did you not tell me this before?'

‘It did not seem important, ma'am.'

‘No, perhaps not…' Lady Sarah murmured. ‘Then again, it might be very important indeed.'

Eliza said nothing. She had been forbidden to speak of her quarrel with the marquis and would do nothing that might endanger the woman she had come to love. Lady Sarah would not replace her mama in her heart, but she had become very fond of her. She saw no point in mentioning the ring, because without it she had no proof of anything.