The Hawkthorn Ghost Plays Cupid

Publisher's Dedication

For Patty Deans, who did not live to see this book published. We hope you are pleased. And to Joanne McCraw, who lovingly edited this book for Patty, a fellow Regency author she would never meet. Well done, Joanne!

CHAPTER 1

Hawkthorn Manor, England

October 15, 1811

Mist curled around the hidden door. The Old Earl stepped into the room. His tall majestic figure, dressed in a burgundy velvet coat, sparkled in the moonlight like rubies. He twirled his cane then bowed from the waist.

"I need you," whispered young Robert Craigh.

"What might a six-year-old be worrying about after the sun goes down?" The apparition spoke in his usual hoarse voice, slightly above a whisper.

"I heard Julia tell Miss Harper the Earl of Hawkthorn is on his way home." Robert hugged his book to his chest. "He is the Dragon of Hawkthorn."

The Old Earl clicked his heels, and brushed back his shoulder-length, white hair. The lace that hung below his sleeve swayed with the movement, disturbing the mist. "This is good news."

Robert wiped away a tear, hoping the Old Earl would not notice. "But, sir, the dragon is a most fierce beast and I fear I am not big enough to protect Julia properly."

Wrinkled jowls trembled as the Old Earl shook his head. "There is no need to be afraid. Jameson merely swaggers and belches fire as any good dragon should."

"Fire?" Robert's eyes widened in disbelief, his book splattered to the floor, and the golden title, Hawkthorn Dragon, glittered in the moonlight. "Will he burn Julia?"

"Words are his fire." The Old Earl's fists disappeared in the pockets of his pantaloons. Rocking on the heels of his square-toed boots, he added, "James has a big heart, much like Julia's."

"Oh, if his heart's the same, is he no taller than she?" Robert asked, hopeful that between he and Julia, they could hold off a dragon that stood not much taller than a horse's withers.

The earl drew his hand from his pocket and leveled it above his own head, "He is bigger than Julia, bigger than I, but he has a loving heart -- like Julia."

Dismay snuffed Robert's spark of hope. "It's a dragon's heart and Julia would never have a dragon's heart."

The old man shook his finger. "Nor should you believe that Jameson has a dragon's heart." Shrugging his tall Boney frame, he swaggered closer, his voice a haunting serenade. "Ah, James steals your heart before you know it. Julia quietly demands you give her yours. But it all ends up the same. They have your heart."

Robert raised his eyebrows. "Julia showed me how to feel my heartbeat. I still have my heart."

The old man smiled. "Perhaps, when you're older, you'll understand. James will protect you, and keep the land profitable." Then with a flourish he twirled into a mist, and magically back again. "James will teach you to ride."

Robert wistfully sighed. "To ride as well as Julia?"

"Balderdash! You will ride better." The Old Earl shook a pointed forefinger with emphasis. "Julia fears you'll be thrown, and it interferes with her teaching you. Her skill comes naturally. She can't teach something she's never learned."

"I'll never have Julia's bottom. Aunt Shredda says only a few can ride so well."

"James will teach you," the Old Earl insisted.

"But Julia says he'll chase her away." Robert sniffed back his tears, and he rammed his fist against his teeth to keep from crying.

The old man bent low to face the boy. "No, he won't...we won't let him."

"Can your magic stop James from turning into a fierce dragon?"

"I need no magic. James' now the earl. He will tend the land and you'll ride with him. Julia can spend more time with you, young man. You'll see."

Very pleased at being called a young man, Robert confided in a whisper, "Julia doesn't like the Hawkthorn Dragon."

With a shake of his white hair, the Old Earl whispered, "Never you mind. That won't be a problem for long."

"You promise he will never harm Julia?" Robert looked into the old man's eyes searching for the truth.

The Old Earl laughed heartily. "On my honor."

"And Julia will be able to spend hours with me?"

"What are you planning to do with Julia?"

"Julia is teaching me Greek, sir. And I am behind in my translations."

"Greek!" The shaggy white eyebrows raised, the old man leaned closer, and shook his finger. "James will teach you to ride! The wind to your back racing after the fox." Then he heaved a long sigh. "Ah, I do miss the hunt. You have more need to learn to control a horse than to read Greek."

Robert's lip curled, and he forced himself not to laugh. "Papa and Mama told me those who can't read Greek always belittle the language."

"Humph!" The Old Earl swung his cane, and stood straight. "They never knew what they missed with their noses stuck in a book. Better to tend to the land, Robert, than read ridiculous books by my countess about imagined dragons. If James fails to beget an heir, you may have to take charge."

"Is begetting an heir difficult?"

With hardly a blink of a lash, the old man said, "'Tis what I expect of him. But we must both have patience, Robert."

The Old Earl faded away as usual when the sound of Miss Harper's heels reached the nursery.

She rushed across the room, and put her cool hand to Robert's head. "A bad dream, Master Robert?"

"I talked to myself," he reassured her, for it turned Miss Harper all starchy when he spoke of the Old Earl. Robert often asked the old man to talk to Miss Harper, but he always left before any of the household could see him. Julia insisted the Old Earl had died fifteen years ago, and Miss Harper feared he was a ghost.

Robert crawled under the covers. He wondered if he could lift the Hawkthorn sword to save Julia if the Old Earl's magic failed to protect her. Robert loved Julia; he would not let the Hawkthorn Dragon hurt her. Or belch fire near her.

CHAPTER 2

Jameson Craigh had changed, yet nothing had changed in London. Diamonds set in gold baubles, silks, and French brandies delicacies, were all still available. Napoleon's warring be damned. Obviously no one in London cared if a soldier fell, and spilled his blood on a battlefield.

James shook his head hoping the action would chase away the unbidden shivers that raced up and down his spine. What could be wrong? He was in England. He was home. Why would he feel a sense of urgency as powerful as when he dodged cannon balls on the battlefield? Why had he survived fighting on foreign soil when his brother died in a carriage accident not fifteen miles from London?

By Jove! It seemed as if he were dreaming up worries like his man Casper.

Above his head the solicitor's faded sign swayed against the gray sky. He shrugged off the old wariness of battle, and reminded himself it wasn't a call to arms, but a courtesy call to collect any message the solicitor might have for Papa. He dashed up the flight of stairs, two steps at a time.

The old clerk, Miza, opened the creaky door and, instead of the usual nod, he bowed. "This way, my lord." He stepped aside.

James nodded, determined to adjust to being an heir to an earldom instead of a second son. Inhaling musty air, he followed Miza down the narrow hall to the solicitor's office.

"Earl of Hawkthorn, Mr. Jones," The stooped clerk announced before he discreetly disappeared.

Startled by the use of his father's title, James stared at Stewart Jones, expecting a correction.

Mr. Jones rose from his massive desk, and gave a slight bow. "Lord Hawkthorn, I have been expecting you."

"My father?"

"He died two days after he sent for you. I assume you did not receive the missive informing you of his death?"

"No!" Stunned by the news, James grabbed the smooth back of a nearby chair. "It would have been difficult, but I would have returned immediately."

"Your father was in the same accident that took his wife and your brother."

"Papa didn't mention he rode in the carriage."

Stewart nodded, and motioned James to sit. "I have prayed for your return. You are needed at Hawkthorn."

He did not want to believe he'd never see them again. Denial made James say, "You mean..." His voice staggered to a halt.

"Of course." Stewart, his expression grave, added, "You are now Earl of Hawkthorn."

James slumped in the chair, and rested his head in his hands. He stared at the worn wooden floor, his mind flooded with memories. And regrets.

The lean solicitor eased himself back into his chair. His fingers fidgeted with the papers in front of him until the clock struck the hour. "May I presume you will be staying in England?"

James raised his head to nod before he drew in a fortifying breath. "When exactly did my father die?"

Stewart appeared nervous. He turned his gaze away, and cleared his throat. "A few days before Christmas. The fourteenth of December to be exact. Several weeks after the tragic accident."

James flinched. "More than ten months ago!" He dragged in a slow breath. "Tell me about the accident." It surprised him that he sounded more like his grandfather than an officer and gentleman.

Clearing his throat, Stewart began, "It happened during one of those unpredictable ice storms. Your brother, father and stepmother were returning home the morning after Squire Henry's annual ball. Your father survived because he was thrown from the carriage."

"What about Robert?"

Stewart looked pleased when James mentioned his half brother. He settled back in his leather chair, and steepled his fingers. "Robert remained at Hawkthorn with his governess."

"And Julia?" James leaned forward, remembering the feisty little girl with a mop of golden curls, and mischievous blue eyes.

"Your cousin was visiting your aunt, Lady Loretta, here in London."

James gripped the arms of his chair. "What caused Papa's death?"

"Grief, mostly. Shattered by the death of his beloved wife, and unable to speak of his oldest son. But pneumonia weakened him. He wanted to talk to you," Stewart replied sadly.

"I'm sorry I wasn't here to be with him," James admitted, feeling the loss with such fierce poignancy, he wanted to be alone with his grief. It wasn't possible now. "Papa and I had our moments of disagreement. He was a good father, and though I wasn't his best pupil, I did learn to translate accurately." Looking at Stewart with resignation, James held back the tears that welled in his eyes. "Death is always close in battle. Still one never gets used to it."

Stewart nodded in agreement. "I sat with your father during his last moments. The Earl had immense faith in you, my lord." As he dabbed his eyes with a white handkerchief, Stewart suddenly appeared weary and old.

Strange, Stewart Jones always seemed ageless and invincible, like Papa. James fisted his hand and held his breath. It will be difficult to ever accept the finality of death.

"Even near the end..." Stewart's voice cracked. "Your father expressed his confidence in you to right the estate. He seemed pleased it would not suffer through a second generation of neglect." He raised his handkerchief to his forehead, and wiped his wrinkled brow. "The earldom signified a weighty responsibility and your father's interest, rest his soul, lay more in scholarly pursuits."

"Both Papa and my brother devoted their lives to translating the great classics." James straightened in the chair. "Not like the Old Earl. That is how my brother and I referred to our grandfather."

With a nod of acknowledgment, Stewart returned his handkerchief to his pocket, and wrung his hands. "Would you like to go over the books?"

James wanted it clear that the friendly relationship, Stewart and Papa had enjoyed, would continue with himself. "There is no hurry, Mr. Jones. I would like to see all the tenants before I look at the books. Perhaps you should join me at the estate in a fortnight."

"Please, call me Stewart."

Stretching his arm across the desk, James shook the offered hand to seal their accord.

"Although the books are in order..." Stewart paused before adding, "the tenants have been too long without the direction of an Earl of Hawkthorn."

What about Hawkthorn's condition made Stewart nervous? In any event, James inherited the title with all the responsibilities that entailed. Anxious to put an end to the meeting, and call on Papa's tailor to order appropriate clothes to replace his uniform, he said, "I will try to emulate the Old Earl, and restore Hawkthorn to the glory it had during his life."

"Your father believed you would do just that."

James nodded, pleased by his father's confidence.

The old man's eyebrows rose, "Lady Loretta is anxious to see you."

"I will make it a point to stop by and see her before I leave London."

Stewart spoke softly. "Your aunt has left London. She is staying at Hawkthorn. You may need some advice from her."

James raised his eyebrows. "Pray tell what might that be about?"

Stewart leaned forward unconsciously fingering his beard. "The young lady, my lord."

James shook his head not understanding what the solicitor meant. "The young lady?"

Reaching into a drawer, Stewart pulled out a few papers, and placed them on his desk before he said, "Your cousin, Lady Julia, and your half brother, Master Robert, are your wards."

"Yes, of course," James mumbled to himself.

"I believe you are the one who gave Lady Loretta the name of Aunt Shredda." Stewart smiled. "Robert and Lady Julia call her Aunt Shredda, too."

"Yes," James said off-hand before continuing in a more serious vein. "Aunt Shredda will insist I marry for their sakes."

"I assume you are right on that account."

"You understand, I will not allow my aunt to run my life." That brought a chuckle from James' chest, and he leaned on the desk briefly. "I don't want a wife. Truthfully, I will not mind raising two children."

"They have grown older..."

"So have we all." James shrugged. "I can handle them. They will be less trouble than a battalion of tired, hungry men."

"Of course, my lord!" The old man smiled. "Are we agreed that I travel to Hawkthorn in a fortnight?"

James nodded wondering what had amused Stewart Jones. As he walked down the gloomy hall, he recalled his youthful wildness that had brought misery upon his father. Hawkthorn must have been clothed in black last Christmas with Papa dying just before the holidays.

But now, he thought, Hawkthorn belonged to him and would be decorated for Christmas. He would see that Robert and Julia never experienced a lonely holiday again.

As he left the musty office, Miza bowed. "Good day, my lord."

He nodded at the old man, dashed down the stairway to the street. At the curve in the street James found the tiny shop with Papa's aging tailor.

"This way, my lord. I'm sorry about your father. He often admitted you would be a far better earl." The short, stout tailor led James to the back room, and as he stepped back, added, "I will see that you have several changes, the rest of your clothes will be sent within the week." The tailor bowed respectfully.

James nodded. "It is most kind of you to rush my order."

"Your father would expect that of me, my lord."

After an hour at the tailor, James walked through the dark narrow alley to his carriage thinking of the many nights he'd slept on the ground, but tonight he'd be in a fine hotel in a warm room with a soft bed. He would dine in splendor. It had been a long time since he'd had luxuries available to him. The war, a long way off, would not cease. Others would fight to keep England free. He vowed to never forget those soldiers.

By nightfall he would no longer be known as His Majesty's officer, but as the Earl of Hawkthorn with the responsibility of the estate, and his heir, Robert.

And, of course, Julia.

As the sun set, James dashed up the stairs to White's Club, and looked around. He saw a hand lifted in greeting. Glen Sharn limped a few feet from his table to signal James. His best friend seemed to have grown stout since he left the battlefield. A wounded leg and eight months had obviously done more good than harm. James hurried over to his friend, shook his hand, then sat opposite Glen at the table.

"I'm glad you could join me. I've met with Papa's solicitor. I suppose you know..."

"You're now the earl."

"Yes. I'm excited about being a guardian. I actually feel blessed with Robert and Julia left in my charge. In some way I suppose I want to compensate for the havoc soldiers cause the innocent. I'm tired of seeing children forage for food and not know the fun of fishing. I want to see children laugh."

"At long last," Glen laughingly shouted, "the Dragon of Hawkthorn is returning home as its earl."

A few interested heads turned, and eyed them curiously.

James rolled his eyes remembering when he'd acquired that nickname. "Damn, I wonder who else remembers Julia calling me the Dragon of Hawkthorn? She shouted it so all the servants could hear. The little imp used to play in the creek with the stable boys. She bit me, you know, after I reported her actions to my stepmother, who didn't take it at all well. The little spitfire certainly gave me a pinch of trouble."

Glen's smiled skeptical.

"I'll take her a doll to sweeten her. All little girls like dolls." He laughed looking at Glen's grin. "For God's sake man, why would you remember what that ragamuffin called me?"

"It describes you more aptly than anything I've ever thought to call you." Glen leaned forward, and lifted his glass of wine. "Come now, James, she's but a tiny little girl with a monstrous amount of spirit."

"Spunk with no muscles to back her," James agreed. "I hope Julia filled out a little, and looks more like a girl than a boy. She's not a beauty like her aunt who raised her from infancy." Frowning, he sipped his wine, and added, "Must have taken after her father."

"She had large mischievous eyes, and too much hair. Didn't she damn near drown before you forced her to learn to swim?" Glen teasingly reminded.

James shook his head. "Julia thought I wanted to drown her. I caught her fishing with the stable lads, and before I left, I taught her to swim. Indeed, she would have drowned before my father ever noticed she couldn't swim. Her aunt had eyes for nothing but her new baby and thoughts of being a countess."

"A beautiful countess! And I differ with you. She gave your father another boy, but she had eyes only for her husband." Glen lifted his glass, and took a long sip.

"That's as it should have been," James agreed unpleasantly. "A widowed woman raising her small niece needed a man to take care of them. She must have sought out my father." He wished his bitterness were not so evident in his voice. Yet to be honest, Papa had grieved many years before he met another woman to take his mother's place.

"'Tis true your father and brother took more interest in translating the classics than in dancing with women. God rest their souls. But by all accounts I've heard he and his second wife loved each other." Before James could comment, Glen added, "You'll prove to be a great earl, James. You were always more suited for it than your father or older brother. Everyone thought you more like your grandfather. Under his stewardship, Hawkthorn flourished."

Pleased by his friend's words, James took a long breath, and sipped his wine. "Because the Old Earl believed tenants prospered under good management. Something neither my brother nor Papa found as interesting as translating Greek and Latin into English."

"Don't be bitter, James. Your father and brother tried, but it never held their interest. Their translations contributed much to English education."

James laughed. "You always see the best in everyone. Come home with me, Glen. I might need bracing to face Aunt Shredda."

"Come now...Lady Loretta is much more amusing than those Frenchies. And you could not expect me to help you put the estate in order." Glen laughed. "We envisioned ourselves heroes, and I have a stiff leg to prove it...not that I'm not grateful you saved my life."

"Need we relive war stories? I'm quite sure my head would not rest on my shoulders today if it hadn't been for you."

"I'm glad you're not going back," Glen savored a swallow of wine. "War teaches a lot of lessons that Oxford omitted."

Their food arrived then. They were quiet as memories of the war stirred thoughts better forgotten.

Glen sighed, and broke the silence. "Do you think your new title will change you?"

Surprised by the question, James raised his chin. Then with a chuckle he said, "Not as much as the battlefield. Aunt Shredda once told me the more lofty the title, the worse the rogue."

"To a spirited old gal." Glen reached out and clinked James' glass with his own. "I suppose you're right. She'll be telling you what to do."

"Maybe not. She knows I never heed her advice. But I'm certain she will stay through Christmas. She's always been part of the holidays at Hawkthorn. She claims Christmas lacks warmth without family." Suddenly James felt it necessary to grab his old friend's arm, and plead, "Promise you will come down to share Christmas with me and the children."

"I will." Glen let out a sigh of relief. I dreaded spending it with my cousin. He thinks of all sorts of outrageous things to do. And a limping hero in tow will not enhance his polished image with his latest mistress. She's a beauty, a well-known opera singer, Kathryn Smythe. You might have heard of her even in France."

James shook his head. "That being the case, you're doubly welcome."

Glen added, "I'll be at Hawkthorn by the fifteenth of December. I'm looking forward to meeting your wards. Children don't expect much of one."

"Good, you can help choose the Yule log. I remember even Papa put down his books to join in the hunt for the finest ash log to grace our fireplace."

Glen sat back with a satisfied smile. "Done, then."

Old memories frolicked through James' head and heart; the feel of his mother's arms around him reading about Father Christmas. He turned ten the year she died, and had to read the Christmas stories to himself. The seasonal aromas of gingerbread, oranges and plum pudding filled the halls of Hawkthorn. Not to mention the aroma of goose baking from below stairs. The scent of pine branches trailing down the banisters, and visions of dancing at the Old Earl's Christmas balls. Finally, the wonderful Yule log in the grand fireplace.

As they left White's, James waved, trying not to notice Glen's limp as he returned to his horse. The time had arrived to put the war behind him, and to become the earl Papa had expected and his grandfather would have admired.

The next day James sent Casper ahead with the newly purchased carriage and a hired driver. James spent two hours choosing toys for Robert and Julia before leaving London.

Once astride his horse, James felt a yearning to be back at Hawkthorn; he missed the brook that ran through the fields, the winds that whistled through the trees, the birds that filled the air with their songs. One could view the blue sky unsullied by cannon smoke or listen to the soft bleat of a lamb instead of the loud roar of cannon. War reeked of death, not the scent of flowers.

As the sun began to set, the countryside hid in shadow, and James found himself anxious to return to Hawkthorn. Spurring his horse to a gallop, impatience filled him to catch up to his carriage that held his clothes and toys for the children. Alongside the carriage, he realized both the hired driver and his man Casper looked tired. Even the matched pair of black horses were dark with sweat and their heads hung when they pulled the carriage into the inn's stable. The only thing that perked the ears of the horses and improved their disposition while being rubbed dry, were the sugar lumps tucked in the stable boys' pockets.

Poor Casper kept removing his hat and wiping his brow, a habit he had when tired and weary. The hired driver leaned against the inn's door. It was obvious Casper and the hired driver, along with the horses, needed food and rest. Yet, imagined pleasures of his home estate fed and refreshed James. After leaving instructions, he continued to ride on alone.

In less than three hours it would be midnight, and he would be home. The night had turned cold and crisp, but he planned to sneak into his bedroom just as he did as a boy. Morning would be time enough to greet everyone. He berated himself for his eagerness, though it had been years since he'd been home. Oxford, London and a redheaded, black-eyed beauty enticed him in his youth. He believed himself in love, but the conniving woman jilted him for a duke old enough to be her father. Good riddance to the woman was all the sympathy he had received from Papa, or any of his friends.

Disillusioned, he had taken the funds his mother had left him, and bought his colors the next day. He expected his father would never speak to him again. Instead, Papa accepted the decision rather philosophically.

He hadn't known then that war stayed with a man in his dreams even after he left it. War was more than Papa believed. It was educating; very bloody; and more real than books. More deadly than parliament visualized. War bared men's souls; exposed bravery and fear in the strongest of men and bestowed honor on many. But the glory of war lived only in the words of poets, never on the battlefield. Glory could not be felt, sensed or realized until the last shot was fired. Only then could the mind perceive its meaning.

James' mood lightened. In the frosty moonlight, he could see the Hawkthorn Manor. The front lawn seemed more expansive. The trees had grown taller and the tracery of their limbs more tangled. The stone lions resting on both sides of the gate seemed to have shrunk. In shape contrast to the dark bricks, the white window trimming glowed in the moonlight. Climbing off his horse, he crept past the manor leading his horse to the stable.

A stable boy, sleeping in a pile of straw awoke, "You be the new earl?"

Obviously Stewart Jones had sent a message ahead. "Yes. And who are you?"

"Bates. I'll take yer horse, my lord."

"I've ridden him long and hard today. Can you take care of him?"

"I'll rub him down and feed him, my lord."

"That's a good lad."

With a smile, James quietly meandered to the rear of the manor, leaned against the old oak tree and looked up at the narrow balcony with the French doors. Should he climb the trellis as he used to many years ago? He sighed deeply. Home. So good to be home.

He ambled over to the trellis and tugged at the vines. They seemed as strong as he remembered. At last he grabbed hold of the trellis in the dim moonlight. Life would be exciting with Robert. Teaching the boy to climb, ride the fastest horses and become an incredible whip. He smiled thinking of Julia tagging along, trying her best to be better than boys, perhaps Aunt Shredda could help him turn her into a lady. What a shame such a spirited little girl couldn't also be a beauty.

The memory of laughter and happiness that reigned in the old manor flooded over him. So different from war where one could hear the belch of cannon fire and the piercing cries of fear and pain by children, women and men. Here he would hear the laughter of children and observe them growing into adults.

He heaved himself up on the trellis, his heart racing with the thrill of anticipation. Christmas will be perfect this year.

Julia could not sleep. Her promise to Robert roiled over and over in her thoughts. The Hawkthorn Dragon made her jittery. How would she ever attract the Earl of Hawkthorn enough to propose marriage?

At the sudden rustling sound outside, under the balcony, Julia leaped from her bed, tiptoed to the curtains and hid. Slowly she peeked around the heavy fabric, breathless, unable to speak as a mist slowly seeped into the room. Half-frightened, half curious, she watched it twirl and descend. She held tighter and tighter to the curtains trying to disappear among the folds, yet she could not resist another glimpse.

The mist twisted upward and outward until she could clearly see an old man whose feet dangled above the floor. He swooped down to whisper in her ear, "Wait!"

CHAPTER 3

Julia pushed against the wall, the old man's toes touched the floor, and his whisper grew raspier. "James will climb the vine, and come right in using the very knife I gave him to disengage the lock. Caught him at it many times when he was a youth."

"Who," her voice quivered, "are you?"

His eyes twinkled in the moonlight. "The Old Earl."

Her heart pounded like thunder. Is this what Robert hears? Is the Old Earl more than an imaginary playmate? Is there a ghostly spirit haunting the manor dressed like the portrait in the gallery? She clung to the curtains. "Do you speak to Robert?" Even though she tried, she could not control the quake in her voice.

"Yes, we are friends." He came closer and frowned. "Listen to me! Hide behind that curtain. James is tired. He'll fall asleep before he rolls over."

"I can't be caught dressed like this." She clutched the thin muslin nightgown close to her throat and pushed back harder against the wall. "I must change, my lord."

"Oh, no. Perfect attire." He stepped back and moved his head from side to side studying her from every angle. "Just the right modesty. Take a risk, my dear. Ah, no quicker way to keep your promise to Robert." He put his finger to his lips. "Hush...hush..."

The mist drifted away. Julia pinched herself. Was it possible to see and hear ghosts? Can Hawkthorn really be haunted by the Old Earl? Then she clearly heard the crunch of dry vines as someone clambered up the trellis. Camouflaged by the heavy curtain, she held her breath, and waited, and waited. Her body trembled, and her heart pounded. She waited, listening to every twig that snapped.

James climbed the ivy entwined trellis, swung over onto the narrow balcony of his old room, took out his knife, opened the French doors and stepped through, not quite closing the door. Rather than the sober master of Hawkthorn, he felt more like the long ago young schoolboy, who had imbibed too much ale, and was skulking in late.

The thin sliver of moonlight lit the dark shadows while he removed his clothes. He stretched his muscles, felt the cool breeze caress his body while he ran his fingers through his hair. Clouds had covered the moon, and in the darkness, he slipped into the bed, and breathed in the sweet scent of fresh sheets. Home, where he belonged for the rest of his life. He closed his eyes to bring back pleasant memories of long ago. Life here would be happiness and contentment with days of fishing and swimming with the children.

James rolled over.

A soft snore filled the air. James had fallen asleep.

Julia let the curtain fall back. With a long breathless sigh, she clearly remembered when he snatched a fishing pole from her hands, pulled her out of the brook, and threw her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. He embarrassed her in front of her only friends.

She scrunched behind the curtain to wait. Her thoughts churning back to the last time she had seen James and thought him a fierce dragon. He actually didn't look all that much like the sketch of the Hawkthorn man that turned into a fire breather. James was as handsome as a prince with muscles that rippled in the moonlight, and when a lock of his black hair fell over his forehead, his hair seemed as untamed as Robert's curly locks. When Robert becomes a man, will he look like James?

Doubts filtered through her thoughts. What if he awakened and threw her out of the room. He could escape before Aunt Shredda arrived. She shook her head and stiffened her spine. He did not know she hid in the room. A sleeping dragon could not be dangerous. She wrung her hands, bit her lip and leaned back against the wall where the curtains hid her, and soundlessly slid to the floor. Then slowly she mentally relaxed every muscle, it would be a long night filled with foreboding, but she could handle it. "I can wait in the darkness," she thought, "until I hear Aunt Shredda's footsteps at dawn. I can slip into bed with James. Compromised...I will keep my promise to Robert. I can wait!"

"It is time," the raspy voice whispered in her ear waking her.

She rubbed the sleep from her eyes, and watched the mist twirl. "Time?"

"To climb in bed with James."

"Now?" Her pulse raced. "It is still dark."

"It is time." The whirling mist scattered into the darkness.

Her heart beat like a drum, and she shuddered with fear as she unwound herself from the heavy curtain. How could she have fallen asleep? A cool breeze swept across her skin sending a shiver up her spine, she crept to the bed. His eyelid's were closed, his smiling face relaxed, and he reminded her of Robert. Slowly she sank down in the feather mattress, and laid her head on a corner of the pillow. She tried not to move until certain James had not awakened.

His breath on the back of her neck sent flutters creeping down her back. She drew her legs under the cover, and the warmth of his body triggered a strong desire to move closer. Never before had she been so in need of warmth, and some mysterious need she did not understand. Yet she didn't dare relax, move closer to the heat nor move away from the edge of the bed until she could hear Aunt Shredda's heels tapping in the hall.

While sunlight inched through the glass and wandered across the room, her heartbeat raced. She prayed James would not awake and discover her before Aunt Shredda arrived.

As her eyelids fluttered closed, she tried not to panic or leap from the bed. After a deep breath, she opened her eyes and concentrated on the doorknob. To keep her promise she had to remain in this bed.

At a sudden crash outside the door, her body lurched. Panic seized her stomach. She had to run, to disappear. Carefully she eased one leg to the edge of the mattress ready to slip from the bed. Suddenly, James rolled closer clamping his leg down on the tail of her nightgown. Frightened, she lay motionless. Caught like a rat in a trap!

Through the door she could hear Aunt Shredda sending her maid, Louise, to the kitchen. James moved again, but Julia's nightgown remained gripped tightly to the bed. His breath seemed warmer on her neck.

The minute she heard the doorknob rattle and the hinges squeak, she threw the blankets over her head knocking her bed cap off. She closed her eyes and waited for Aunt Shredda to enter.

Groggily James raised his head from the pillow, and ran his fingers through his hair. His eyelids, still heavy with sleep, refused to open. No one knew he was home. He flopped his head down, rolled over and touched something soft.

A sweet moan drifted to his ears. Through squinty eyes, he saw a mop of blond hair on the pillow beside him. A small, bare foot peaked out of the covers on the other side of his bed as kicking legs tried to free themselves of their restraint.

The door opened.

The wiggling form beside him disappeared under the covers, and went absolutely still.

He sat up, and tried to focus on his aunt standing at the door.

"Quiet," Aunt Shredda whispered.

Glancing down, James grinned at the vague shape huddled under the covers next to him. Only a bit of hair now showed. "Who's in my bed?" he asked the lump politely.

"Your bed? What are you doing in my bed?" a soft muffled voice asked from beneath the covers.

"I asked the question first," he whispered to the quaking form responsible for shaking the covers.

Aunt Shredda's laughter filled the room.

A maid knocked on the door.

Puzzled, James looked at his aunt -- still a beautiful woman, perhaps slightly above average in height, but quite fashionable. How does she plan to control me? I'm too old to be bribed with sweets, and too young to believe flattery.

"Come back in twenty minutes, Louise." Aunt Shredda called to the maid.

Instinctively James suspected the little pest under the blankets was Julia. "Get out of my bed!" he ordered in a half-amused but authoritative voice.

"Sweet Jameson," Aunt Shredda chuckled. "Julia has been sleeping in this room for at least four years. Now, tell me, when did you arrive?"

"Last night," he grumbled, not at all pleased by the news someone had taken possession of his room.

"How did you get in without disturbing the servants?"

"It was midnight or close around that time. I climbed up the trellis. Totally exhausted, I fell into my bed. Why didn't she...wake up?"

"I put a sleeping potion in her cocoa last evening. Thought Julia deserved a night's sleep." With an obviously wicked grin, his aunt shrugged.

"What's thrown you into good humor, Aunt Shredda?" He saw nothing hilarious about the present situation.

"I must protect Julia. I think you best leave, James," Aunt Shredda said through her laughter. "We will talk later. Your presence in this bedroom is highly improper."

"It's my room," he grumbled.

"Not any more!" Julia responded loudly. "You are in my room, in my bed. You are not supposed to be here until tomorrow!"

"Don't pretend that this isn't my room. It's been my room since I turned six. You are in my room."

"Your father gave me this room. He was the earl."

James could not stifle his grin. Julia hadn't lost her determination, still a spunky little girl. Trying not to laugh, he said in his most determined voice, "Get out of my bed, Julia. I'm the earl now."

"I won't get out!"

Aunt Shredda stood with her arms akimbo. "Get out, James!"

"Get this child out of here so I can get dressed. I haven't a stitch on. If you don't believe me..."

"James!" Aunt Shredda gasped in shock at the outrageous suggestion. "Julia is an innocent."

As he tossed the covers off his bare chest, Lady Loretta screamed, "Turn your head, James. Julia, put on this robe. We'd best take you to your dressing room until this rascal vacates your bed."

"I've no plans to vacate it," James mumbled. "It's mine."

"Not any more," his aunt disagreed again. "Come on, Julia." Aunt Shredda could be heard scurrying around leading Julia toward the dressing room. "You can dress now, James."

At the sound of the door slamming, he crawled out of bed, and dressed as best he could. The fact he couldn't achieve the spit and polish appearance that symbolized an officer in His Majesty's Army sent a surge of anger through him at his civilian status. It was time he make his dear aunt understand he is the earl! "Are you planning to have breakfast with me this morning, Aunt Shredda?"

Her answer could be heard clearly from the partially opened door. "You and I have more than breakfast to discuss this morning. I'll meet you in the library in an hour. Be discreet when you leave. You have Julia's reputation to consider."

Determined at least to look commanding, he threw back his shoulders and marched straight to the wall and touched it. As soon as I get my bearings and the sleep from my eyes, Aunt Shredda will find out exactly who is running Hawkthorn. She is not going to undermine my authority over my wards! I will show her I'm better with children than she is. A wood panel slid aside, and James, with all the dignity of an English officer, stepped into the void.

In the darkness, relying on memory, he cautiously stepped down the long, narrow, dusty stairs pushing aside spider webs and checking on the security of the banister. Once on the flat area, he ran his hand along the wall until he felt a leather strap. Slowly, he slid open the panel, and entered the library. Pausing first to control his anger, he closed the panel quietly though he had the urge to slam it. What's wrong with Aunt Shredda? A silly child slept with him and Aunt Shredda laughed like she belonged in bedlam.

James began to think of himself as the earl. He no longer needed to obey orders; he was not in his Majesty's army. Although he had always respected his aunt's insight into people and situations, she had no right to order him around. In a few days his dear aunt will come to realize that he's in charge of Hawkthorn.

He felt at a disadvantage in his wrinkled uniform. Damn, his new clothes wouldn't arrive until noon. When he should have arrived and been received with dignity, not standing here ramrod straight like a scolded boy. Unable to sit, he paced while he waited. When he heard footsteps in the hall, James stood stock-still.

Into the library walked Aunt Shredda with her chin raised.

Ellis trailed behind her carrying a tray with two silver pots and a generous breakfast platter. He set the tray on the library table and arranged its contents. He bowed to James and said, "The staff is pleased you have returned safely, my lord."

"I'm happy to be here, Ellis. Tell them I'll meet with them later today."

"Yes, my lord." Ellis turned to leave and Aunt Shredda followed him to the door and locked it behind him.

"Sit down, Jameson," she ordered. "You surely realize you must offer for Julia."

"Offer what?"

His aunt glared at him.

"What the devil! The child was sleeping in my bed." He made a fist and held it against the old wood of the desktop, controlling it from rising to beat on the desk. The silent mirth twinkling in his aunt's eyes annoyed him.

"After you." He gallantly indicated a chair. Once she was seated, he stood at his own chair drumming his fingers on the back while she arranged her skirts. Then he sat across from her.

She slowly raised the silver coffeepot and poured coffee into a fine English-china cup. With a smug smile, she passed him the cup, then reached for the teapot and poured a cup of tea for herself.

After sipping the steaming coffee, he said, "What was Julia doing in my room?"

Aunt Shredda sat back in the chair and looked indignant. "Your bed is now in the master bedroom. Your old room belongs to Julia."

He leaned forward and frowned. "Well, she can have the room. I didn't mean to throw the child out."

"Julia isn't a child, she's a young woman. Seventeen to be exact. You must offer her marriage," his aunt breezily replied.

"For God's sake, Aunt Shredda, you can't believe anything happened. I didn't realize she was in the bed."

Aunt Shredda held her hand to her chest and spread her fingers as though about to take her last breath. "Someone may have seen you leave the room. You must offer for her, James."

"Ridiculous!" He shook his head. "I left by the hidden stairs."

"Those hidden stairs are no secret. Besides, you left the French doors partially open. Julia leaves them closed." Aunt Shredda smiled and breathed deeply. "You must offer for Julia."

"She would never want to marry me. She's a child."

In the most officious manner, Aunt Shredda demanded, "The Earl of Hawkthorn should not recoil from his duty. I insist that you offer for her!" Aunt Shredda placed her translucent teacup on the table and rose slowly as though she hadn't raised her voice. "I'll send Julia in directly."

James stood and retaliated. "Just one moment!"

"Of course." Aunt Shredda sank back into her chair, and raised her chin defiantly in the air.

"Just exactly why do you think she would be well-off married to me?"

"You are head of the family now, she will obey your counsel. At least we might say you did your duty by her."

He rubbed his hand against his whiskers. "If that be the case, I will arrange for her come out. That is simple enough. Would you enjoy sponsoring her?" When his aunt hesitated, he added, "I'll pay for both your gowns."

"She might not want to be launched."

"I know she's not a beauty like her mother, but a large dowry will help."

Aunt Shredda scrutinized him for a few minutes and made him devilishly uncomfortable. Julia must indeed be unattractive. He sighed, adding, "Proper gowns will improve upon the young chit's looks."

"Yes, of course. But, you must ask her and let her decide. I could not otherwise be persuaded." Aunt Shredda's voice demanded compliance.

After serving as a captain in the army he had learned to rein in his temper and deal with the difficult. He didn't want it claimed that he'd inherited the Old Earl's disposition. It sounded easy enough. "You're right, dear aunt. It's precisely the sort of situation gossipmongers thrive on. It takes little imagination to see the trouble that could inspire if someone discovered I spent the night in Julia's room." He stood, then paced. "Even a plain miss wants a season. Send her to me. I'll persuade her to into taking part in a season."

"Of course, my dear," his aunt soothed in a solicitous manner. "Now, that we are speaking of responsibility, I should like to remind you that you are the Earl of Hawkthorn and should not encourage the gossips to spread the old rumors by dashing after opera singers and the like as you used to. It would so endanger Julia's possibilities."

"I promise to do whatever is in my power to bring about Julia's successful come out. But, I will wash my hands of you, Aunt Shredda, if you become too demanding."

He held his aunt's chair as she rose holding her back as straight as a poker. "Oh course you shall," she agreed nodding with a smile of satisfaction that caused his hackles to rise.

He watched her walk out of the library as though she were royalty. He murmured to himself, "You're a scheming old woman, my sweet Aunt Shredda. But you have met your match."

Surely with the proper gowns and dowry Julia could be made presentable. Hell, he hadn't seen much of her, other than a bit of her tiny foot and that mop of unruly hair. He hadn't dared a glance with Aunt Shredda staring.

James walked around the table to pour himself another cup of black coffee. Not long after his aunt's departure, the click of the door caught his attention.

Julia entered the room. His heart lurched.

CHAPTER 4

Julia quietly stood in front of James. The sweet scent of roses filled the room. The lavender muslin revealed an entirely too bewitching, feminine figure. He gawked and it angered him. My God, what had happened to the skinny girl? What could Aunt Shredda be worried about? Julia had grown into that mass of golden locks. Her deep blue eyes pierced his soul and left him breathless. He couldn't believe she'd been twelve last time he saw her. She would take in the marriage mart on looks alone. If she were older, or he were younger, he would enjoy introducing her to love making. He needed his wits about him now and not the reminder that it had been too long since he'd had a woman to bed. Mentally, he shook the thought out of his mind. For now, he needed to choose a suitor for her.

He cleared his throat. "Would you like a come out, Julia?" He tried to speak fatherly to his ward, instead he sounded more like a man trying to bewitch a goddess.

She shrugged. "I don't believe I have time."

He ran his fingers through his hair, as if the action pushed the sting of her rejection from his thoughts. "Nonsense! We will make time for a season."

Her deep blue eyes opened wide. With an air of innocence, she asked, "Are you taking me to London?"

I would rather take you to bed. He shook his head trying to toss off his wayward thoughts. "I would see you properly chaperoned." A determined glint flashed in her eyes. The same glint she'd had when she called him a dragon. Her mouth twitched and she almost smiled. "By whom, my lord?"

He searched a moment for an answer. "Aunt Shredda...and myself at times."

Her eyes twinkled. "I don't believe Aunt Shredda wants to be bothered with a season in London, and I don't have the time. Is there anything else, my lord?" She started to turn from him.

"No! Come back here," he growled. "What do you mean, you don't have time?"

"I have been managing the household."

"We have servants...you aren't responsible for anything in this household. You can take the time." He swallowed a sip of cold coffee, and broached the topic weighing heavily on his mind. "The incident last night, it seems proper I ask you to marry me. Of course, you need not accept. You probably were unaware I occupied the bed when you joined me. On the other hand, as my ward you must have your season. With a fine dowry, which I will provide, you will take well on the marriage mart and perhaps capture a title."

"Thank you, my lord." Her lips turned up a bit making him wish to taste them. "You may keep your dowry. I accept your proposal of marriage." With a smile she reached out her hand. "Shall we shake hands, my lord?"

He straightened and stopped himself before he slammed down the coffee cup. This was not the response he envisioned. Carefully he put the cup on the table to steel his courage, then looked directly into the chit's eyes. "Dash it, Julia! What is wrong with you? You need not worry, you'll take."

Demurely she looked him up and down. "You will do just fine."

Her words sounded nonchalant, as if she were picking out a hat or ribbons instead of accepting his hand in marriage. This was not the playful child he remembered. With her shoulders squared, her head held high, and those blue eyes flashing, he could hardly claim Julia tall, yet it made her appear impressive. His gut feeling told him it would not be easy to talk her out of marrying him.

"I can stay here in Hawkthorn while you live the wild life in London." She sighed.

With some misgiving, James studied her closely. What's she up to? Anger grasped him, but he knew from experience in battle, the importance of maintaining a calm manner. "Julia, I have no intention of spending my time in London." He had no reason to let her know that he had lost his appetite for the city's flagrant display of sins for the gentry's sons.

Julia's gaze settled on his eyes before she let her lashes fall.

He eased himself closer compelling her to look up into his face again. At the same time, trying to force a withdrawal from his proposal. Such a dainty woman to be so obstinate. Why didn't she say something?

He took a step closer. "I expect my wife to sleep in my bed and indulge my needs."

She shuddered visibly, and snapped her eyes closed. He had hit a nerve. She had too little experience to maintain her bravado. "Ah, little one, you are not sure you want a man in your bed."

Julia made it easy for him. He took another step closer.

She held steadfast, opened her eyes and looked straight into his, her dignity intact.

He slowly took another step. "I expect my wife to bear many sons."

She reached behind her, clutching the back of a tall chair. Her knuckles turned white, yet she did not glance away.

"I'm stubborn and demanding." He smiled. "Remember the dragon, as you so aptly called me for not allowing you to fish with the stable boys."

She blinked.

He took another step, now almost touching her. "You know I'm an unreasonable devil, a fire breather," he whispered.

"Did you wish to kiss me, my lord?" Although her voice sounded unsteady, she leaned toward him, her high breasts brushing his lapel.

Damnation! She showed spunk. His arms willingly circled her waist and he felt her tremble for a second. He stifled the urge to smile. Not unaffected by her fate, she never flinched a muscle. With a finger he tipped her chin up, and lowered his lips to hers. He meant to gently brush her lips, but the taste of her lured him to deepen the kiss.

When she put her arms around his neck and pulled him closer, his heartbeat accelerated. The warmth of her body, the softness of her lips, triggered his desire leaving him surprised by her action and his response.

Finally, coming to his senses, he pulled away. Her sweet scent of lavender didn't slow his racing pulse. The preposterous little minx was much too innocent for him. Damn, what would her passionate kiss be like?

Julia stepped further away.

Parting from the heat radiating from her body left him feeling rejected. "Then it is settled and sealed, my lord. When do you plan we marry?"

Startled by her tenacity, he raised a brow. Even with her chin tilted, her blue eyes snapping with courage, he was conscious of her as an alluring female. Her spirit drew him. Her seventeen-year old spirit, he chided himself. She's too young. Yet her youth made him feel less tarnished. "After you have had a season, my dear," he finally managed to answer.

"Unnecessary, my lord." She gave a small bow and left the room.

His unexpected reaction to her kiss disturbed him more than he wanted to admit. Blood had surged through his body and left his loins aching for a forbidden pleasure. She was beautiful from her head to the tips of her toes.

He took a deep breath. A tug of reluctance to choose a suitor instantly invaded his heart. He regretted that he must frighten her into the arms of another man. What he didn't want was for her to rue being leg shackled forever to a former soldier; too old, too cynical and too disillusioned with love and life. Besides he had no need to take a wife for the sole purpose of an heir, he had Robert.

Aunt Shredda should have advised Julia to refuse him and leave to give her a few weeks left of the little season. In his mind he had not wrecked Julia's chances of choosing her own husband. With a big dowry, she could have her pick of the ton. He wasn't an ogre. He would give her a chance to beg off.

Taking in a deep breath, he swore in a whisper, "Devil take it! Aunt Shredda means to leg shackle me!"

He plopped down in the big overstuffed chair his father had favored. What could he do to make Julia understand he had her best interest at heart? He had been tired when he lay down last night, but not so tired he would have missed another person in his bed. Too many years he had slept with one ear and one eye open to any intrusion. Had Aunt Shredda orchestrated this? Had she encouraged an innocent to play with fire? Julia was far too young to be that shrewd. Yet he knew with that sixth sense that kept one alive in battle that someone had manipulated him. And he intended to find that person, and he hoped he could avoid committing murder.

Julia wasted no time racing upstairs to the nursery.

"Good morning, Robert." She leaned over and kissed him, before turning to Miss Harper. "I'll stay with Robert for an hour to help him with his translations."

The minute the governess left the room, Robert crawled onto her lap. And Julia hugged him tight. "Our prayers have been answered," she whispered. "The new earl has asked me to marry him."

Robert jumped from her lap and danced around the room. "Oh, Julia, I love you. Aunt Shredda warned me you might not be able to keep your promise to stay with me. I am afraid to live alone with the Hawkthorn Dragon."

"You will never need to, my dear. The earl asked me to be his wife. As his wife I can persuade him to keep us together at Hawkthorn. My dear Robert, you will grow up here and learn many languages."

"Will I learn to translate these funny lines to words?"

Julia grabbed Robert and kissed him. "Greek will be one of your languages for sure. You can grow up to be like your Papa and Mama. I'll be with you every day. Unless the earl expects me to visit London with him." She laughed lightly and added, "I doubt he will ever do that." She wasn't the sort of woman the rogue would escort around the ton.

"Miss Harper and Aunt Shredda want you to fall in love with the earl and marry him. Did you fall in love?"

James held a special place in Julia's heart. Unless he expressed his love, she would keep her sentiments locked away forever. With a shake to her long hair, she steered Robert away from the truth. "No! And he is not in love with me either. It's an arrangement. The best way for me to remain at the manor."

"I must thank him for the arrangement."

"Never! Just be happy that we will be together. No worries of him marrying someone that could throw us out. This is better than living in the dowager house with Aunt Shredda. This is perfect."

"I like it here."

Then Julia opened the book written in Greek. "Let us start you lesson, shall we? This is a story of a princess."

"Oh, another girl. I like stories about knights best."

"There are not many Greek books on the market. Girls are people, too."

His head bent and he began to copy the Greek letters.

Watching Robert, he was the brother she never had and one of the most important persons left in her life. She loved the little fellow and wished to keep him close to her. Nothing she loved most belonged to her. Robert, Hawkthorn, the tenants, the servants belonged to James. She wiped a tear from her eye, and continued the enjoyment of teaching Robert.

In an hour Miss Harper rapped on the door and came in.

Julia leaned over and whispered into Robert's ear, "This is our secret, darling. Say nothing to anyone."

Robert nodded after he looked at her with his big blue eyes twinkling. Julia tousled his eBoney hair, and strolled from the room. For the first time she wondered what it would be like married to James. She liked his kiss. It was only the second kiss of her life, but she had not wanted that warm feeling inside her to stop. On occasion she had witnessed Robert's mother and father share long kisses in the garden when they thought they were alone. She wondered what a lengthy kiss with James would be like. Mostly her aunt and step-uncle spent their hours together translating books. Kisses or no kisses, her prayers had been answered. It was preposterous, insupportable, that she should leave Hawkthorn when Robert needed her to properly raise him.

She smiled. James would surely have sent her away if the Old Earl had not advised her. Even now it seemed impossible to believe she actually listened to a ghostly voice and followed his commands.

Shaking her head, she willed those mischievous thoughts to go away. The memory had to be just a figment of her imagination. It couldn't have been a ghost. Had Robert's belief conjured up the Old Earl in her mind to excuse her actions? She pushed all negative thoughts aside for the deed had been done and the results were positive.

Never would she leave Hawkthorn! James could not force her to leave and hold his head up in the ton. She had fought the battle of a season in London long ago with Aunt Shredda. The idea of dressing up to meet and marry a stranger turned her stomach. She didn't need a husband, unless it was James. A biddable and ingratiating fiancé was her goal, though she doubted she could ever be a biddable wife. Would it be too deceitful not to warn the new Earl? Would he warn her of any trickery? Of course not. He would grow tired of the country, and be off to London. And she would have everything she loved around her, except for him.

Robert needed her. And she could continue to run the estate. With her thoughts carefully set aside, she raised her chin and headed for the kitchen. The cook would need to be consulted on the menu while James stayed at Hawkthorn.

James marched from the library. What he needed was a vigorous ride to dispel his irritation at Aunt Shredda and her ridiculous ideas as well as himself for being cornered like a fresh schoolboy. He dismissed the notion of actually marrying Julia, much too innocent and young for the likes of him. Preposterous thought. No harm had been done. He'd only kissed her. Not to mention, that she had been in his bed the night before.

Julia would be presented at court and introduced to the gentlemen of the ton. Once she acquired a taste for ornate ball gowns and dancing through the night, her attitude about society and London would change her life for the better. A large dowry would secure enough beaus, but anyone as beautiful as Julia would have no need for a dowry. She would quickly fall in love with a young man that flattered her and begged her to marry him. Papa probably never took her beyond the village. Julia probably knew nothing of life outside this estate. James, now pleased with his decision, vowed to see her married well. He would be doing her a huge favor.

As he entered the stables, the head groom, Frank, approached him and squeezed his arm, much like he did when James was a lad. "My lord, you've become a man." Then he stepped back and snatched his battered hat from his head and bowed. "And now, an earl." Gently leading James' horse from his stall, still holding the reins, he grinned. "See you still have Bevans. Been a fine mount for you?"

"Frank, surely I'm grown enough -- you need not hold Bevans."

A big man himself, Frank chuckled heartily. "It don't hurt your reputation a mite if I steady your mount, young man."

James laughed and gave the old man a salute. There was many a scrap Frank had handled without Papa's interference.

In good spirits James rode out to see his bailiff. He remembered Fogel as brusque, to all, including Papa, but never to the Old Earl.

Sitting tall in the saddle and ready to hear the worst about the condition of the fields and the tenant's housing, James galloped down the lane to Fogel's cottage where he quickly dismounted and knocked on the bailiff's door. No answer; where could the man be?

Frustrated that the bailiff wasn't about, he set out to visit his favorite tenant. It took him less than twenty minutes to reach Martha and Martin Richards' cottage. Before he could slip from the saddle, robust Martin bolted from the cottage door.

"'Tis good to see you, my lord. Martha near worried to death about you. Prayed you would come home soon and not be butchered by Boney."

James refrained from grinning and patted Martin on the back. "And what are you about this morning?"

"Enjoying some tea with Martha. Come boy...my lord. She's been expecting you. Has blackberry jam waiting for you."

"That I'll enjoy. Have you seen Fogel?"

"Fogel's in town." Martin hesitated. "Is there anything you need? I often tend to the business."

"Who sends reports to the solicitor?"

"I do." Martin admitted and then hurried to open the cottage door.

James bit his tongue, stunned by Martin's quick, almost bashful admission. Martin could neither read nor write when James departed for the Peninsular War.

"Come in." Martin waved James to precede him. "Martha will serve you a hot cup of coffee. Or tea if you have changed your ways."

Shaking his head, James stepped inside the familiar cottage. It no longer looked drab and cluttered. The curtains were clean. The walls painted. He was certain that old sofa and those two chairs used to be in the manor's main drawing room. What were they doing in a tenant's cottage? What was going on out here? Who had given them furniture from the manor? And why?

Martha grinned upon entering the room and seeing him. "Dear God, thank you, thank you." She grabbed James' hand. "I worried so for you. It has been onto ten months since the tragedy. I expected you to hurry home." Martha patted her lips. James had long ago grown accustomed to the sign that Martha feared she'd said too much, but only a moment later, she added, "The mourning period is over. Not that Lady Loretta allowed it to linger. She so detests black."

Martha pulled out a chair at the table and indicated to the earl to sit. "I'll brew you a bit of coffee. I have a few blackberry scones."

Humming, she scampered around readying the repast.

Martin swiftly proceeded to a handsome desk in the corner of the small room. that desk looked vaguely familiar. Claiming his attention, Martin proudly handed him the monthly report.

"We rotate crops." Placing his chair at a right angle to James', Martin added, "Lady Julia read about it. Your father agreed. Said it had merit. She insisted we learn new ways." He pointed to the figures. "You can see the profit. Lady Julia shows us how to take a portion of the profit to enlarge our yield." Martin's voice filled with pride. "It took a dash of sacrifice but we now own a few sheep. Ah, and that, too, is proving profitable."

A bit astounded, James asked, "Lady Julia reads about farming?"

Martin nodded. "Let me show you." He turned and picked up a dog-eared, small volume on agriculture. "I read it many times. Lady Julia claims she learns more each time she reads it."

Martha poured the steaming coffee into a cup. Nodding his thanks, James turned to accept the book from Martin. He opened it for a quick perusal. After a sip of coffee, he turned to his host. "Martin, when did you learn to read and write?"

"About four years ago." Martin sat back in his chair. "Lady Julia insisted on teaching my Betsy, a full three years older than herself. It wouldn't do but for Lady Julia to encourage me to listen in on the lessons. Betsy didn't want me to look dumb so she taught me every night. I worked hard keeping up with my daughter."

James sat speechless, looking from Martin to Martha.

Martha smiled proudly at her husband and placed her hand over his. "It's true. Lady Julia, barely twelve years old, knew she was teachin' Martin. Betsy helps her teach the tenants' children. It's been over three years, now. Lady Julia is as strict as the Old Earl was, but in different ways. No child works in the fields in the mornin'. Their lessons must be completed first." Martha raised her eyes to meet his. "Your tenants learn to read to help the children complete their lessons quickly durin' the spring plantin'."

"Even during planting, she excuses no one," Martin grinned obviously approving of Julia, though he felt it his duty to complain.

"So Julia has helped you make a profit?" James asked in a shocked tone.

Martin sat back. "She is making Hawkthorn grow by investing in livestock and seed. We have a prime bull and ram."

"Do you still hold it against her for callin' you the Dragon of Hawkthorn?" Martha asked with a trace of trepidation.

James chuckled to put her at ease. "It seems everyone still remembers the grand title she foisted on me."

She nodded. "Lady Julia spent time around many children before her aunt married your father. I fear they were all boys. She knows more about ridin' than stitchin'." Martha, always cheerful and sympathetic, added, "The poor child thrown into a household without any children missed her playmates and sought out all the children of your tenants. Her aunt, as true a bluestockin' as your father, was readin' those foreign books and took no notice of her niece."

James smiled. "Another lonely child. You took her under your wing much as you did me."

"Oh, my! Now look at you. Big and important, and an earl!" Embarrassed, Martha patted her lips and passed him another scone. The kindhearted woman never liked exposing her sentimental nature. "'Tis nice to see you back where you belong."

The earl looked around. "I see your cottage has a new roof. Are the other tenants living comfortably?"

"Yes." Martin stared at the tabletop.

"There's not that much profit." James realized he sounded irritated and it made him aware he would not get information that way.

Martin's thick bushy eyebrows rose, he spoke quietly, "You need to talk with Lady Julia about that."

James brushed back his hair. "How does Julia do it?" he demanded.

"I do not know, my lord, but we do have better profits. We work harder but not longer hours...our children play...and learn to read and write. It is better than when the Old Earl lived."

"Lady Julia is a saint. Our homes are comfortable and warm," Martha added. "She would be a good wife for the new Earl of Hawkthorn."

James straightened his back at her words but then he smiled. "You, too, Martha?" He supposed she had some rights to tell him her thoughts when he remembered the numerous times she and Martin had hidden him for hours after he unthinkingly galloped across the freshly seeded fields. The Old Earl, even in his dotage, brought his cane, and though he stumbled across the fields, he used it on his grandson. That is if he could find the boy before his fiery temper burned down.

"Ah, Lady Loretta believes Lady Julia a fitting wife for an earl?" Martha grinned, in satisfaction that her betters shared her sentiments.

"I'll not be pushed into marriage," James protested.

"I'd not want you to be, my lord," Martha said with an air of indifference.

"I want to visit other tenants today." James stood, halting the discussion with action as well as words. "I shall be off."

The pride that Martin and Martha expressed toward the good works of Julia surprised him. It made him wonder how such a ragamuffin could transform Hawkthorn tenants into showing pride and profit.

When he discovered Julia was no longer a child, the sense of loss he felt was a bitter pill to swallow. Yet he failed to realize a young woman at seventeen could be responsible. Julia needed a husband! He consoled himself by remembering six-year-old Robert. The boy needed his guidance and love.

James rode amongst the cottages only stopping now and then. Every cottage he entered appeared tidy, clean and endowed with a piece of furniture that used to be somewhere in Hawkthorn Manor. Every household had several dog-eared books displayed in a prominent place. He was impressed with the pride they showed, and each mentioned their children could read. So Julia administers to all Hawkthorn's tenants. Better to bide his time and find out exactly how and what she did. His mind roiled with questions. Surely she never told the tenants what seeds to plant or what cattle to buy? Forcing them to read the latest agricultural reports was one thing, but old man Fogel would never allow Julia to determine where the profits were spent. Who is behind this? What in the devil is that gruff old man Fogel doing in town?

I will let it be known the Earl of Hawkthorn is back and I will run the estate my way. A snip of a girl is not going to tell me what to do.

CHAPTER 5

James dismounted at the stable. When he noticed the stable hands cleaning his traveling carriage and tending his new cattle, he walked over to Frank. "What do you think of the Landaulet?"

"Well-sprung. Lady Loretta will enjoy riding in it to London."

Walking over to the matched pair of blacks being rubbed down, James gazed at the horses. "Bought them at Tattersall's. First time without you, Frank."

"I checked them over. Sweet goers they are. Don't suspect you will need me to choose a horse again." Frank smiled and raised his brows.

"Thank you." Frank only complimented the best horseflesh. It gave James a spring to his walk thinking of himself as having a sharp eye for horseflesh.

Frank nodded, then shifted his weight, self-consciously. "Your valet took his time unloading your clothes. Wasn't too friendly. Bold as brass ordering everyone about."

"Casper stood beside me at every battle. He took good care of me but he feels a bit more comfortable on a battlefield than he does in England. He just sounds gruff. I hope you will all help him adjust." James grinned at Frank. "I owe the man a lot, Casper saved my life a few times."

"'Tis our blessing Casper will receive. Hawkthorn needs you. Master Robert and Lady Julia need you, too. They have taken care of things best they could."

Frank is another admirer of Julia's. They're all blinded by her beauty. James took the backstairs two at a time, anxious to look presentable for tea.

In very little time, Casper had James dressed. Surveying himself in the long mirror, he said, "I'm not sure this is me."

"You will have no difficulty becoming used to the style."

James with skeptical eyes inspected the tight-fitting double-breasted claret jacket. The snug gray unmentionables and the gold tasseled black boots."

"I shined your boots with champagne."

"Nice tough, Casper. I'm just used to seeing myself in the scarlet and gold uniform. This high neck cloth is uncomfortable. Stiff as a board."

"Perhaps I can find a better way to tie your cravat."

James sighed. "I miss my uniform and more specifically, my command. Women are difficult. Robert -- "

"Have you seen the young boy?" Casper raised a brow.

"That's where I'm headed. I want to see Robert by himself." James grabbed the package that had been placed on his desk and dashed to the nursery.

Without hesitation he knocked twice, and entered the room. He found Robert, on his knees, and his governess busy picking up toys.

The governess stood and bowed. "Good afternoon, my lord." She yanked on the child's hand, and had him up on his feet in a thrice. "Greet your brother properly."

"My lord," Robert whispered, lowered his gaze toward his shoes.

James stooped and handed Robert the package. "I've brought you something, and thought we might play while we share tea."

Robert raised his head. With eyes large as saucers, he looked directly at the earl without speaking a word.

James motioned to the governess. "Miss?"

"Miss Harper, my lord," Robert solemnly answered.

"Miss Harper," James smiled, "would you mind going to the kitchen and ordering tea be sent up to the nursery?"

With a curtsy, Miss Harper nodded before she scurried out of the room. Did she also believe him a dragon? Surely the old nurse could not believe the fairy tale his grandmother had written before he was born.

Robert hesitated before opening the package. Seeing the tin soldiers, his blue eyes twinkled with surprise. Completely absorbed, he studied the soldiers one by one, turning the tiny miniatures around with admiration and examining the minutest detail. "Is this one Napoleon?"

"Indeed, and his army. Have my box of British foot soldiers been brought down from the attic?"

The smile fell from Robert's face. "Papa said they were mine."

"Absolutely. They belonged to me when I was your age." James quickly turned back to the soldiers he had brought the boy. "Did you notice the British Cavalry in the bottom of the box?"

The smile returned as Robert searched in the box, and pulled the handsome soldiers on horses out and inspected them from every angle. "Did you bring any American soldiers and Indians?"

"No." James hoped he could surprise Robert with them on Christmas. "Might try to obtain some if you wish."

With a nod, Robert turned back to the soldiers, and set up a battle scene on the table. Not quite as realistic as life but romantic as only a child could imagine. James took turns with Robert moving the soldiers about the table. Battles were much more fun on a table than on a battlefield. Someday he would tell Robert the truth about war and combat.

Robert played quietly, often pausing to inspect a uniform, but he never commented nor did he bring out the old foot soldiers. Trust takes longer to build than bridges, James' old governess used to remind him and his brother.

When tea arrived, James instructed the maid to set it on the floor so as not to disturb the battle on the table.

Surprised, Robert quickly sat down on the floor. "My lord, are you going to sit on the floor?"

James sat next to him. "Of course. I used to sit on the floor with my tutor." Surprise filled Robert's face, moving James to ask, "Have you never had tea on the floor?"

"No. Julia said..." He let his eyes turn to the ceiling. "it's not proper." He took a deep breath, and with the look of guilt, added, "We used to on holidays. Now she's always busy working."

James felt a stab of regret by the words. "She will have more time now that I'm here to manage."

"Who will translate?" Robert's voice had a pleading tone.

James cleared his throat. Didn't Robert realize those who translated were dead? "Times change -- for now there will not be any translating in this manor."

"Why?" The child's eyes looked unbelieving.

"We have no translators."

"Julia translates, and I am learning to translate Greek."

"But you're only six!" My God, what is Julia about?

"Julia translated at an early age. She told me." His head cocked as if disbelieving James knew so little.

"She is a bluestocking!" James' voice rose in shock. So that is why Aunt Shredda believed she wouldn't take. It certainly couldn't be Julia's appearance.

Robert looked frightened.

"It is all right, Robert. We are all bluestockings, in a manner of speaking."

With a deep breath, and a determined voice, Robert shook his head before he said, "I'm a Craigh. Julia is a Calatin."

James smiled and pulled Robert close for a hug. "A bluestocking likes to read and write most anything."

Robert nuzzled close. "In English, French, German, Latin and some Greek," he repeated in a good imitation of Papa's voice.

Laughing uproariously, James said, "You are so right."

Robert threw his arms around James and whispered, "You are not a real dragon, are you?"

"Never. A tiny girl who didn't want to learn to swim gave me that name."

The little boy's eyes grew big. "What girl?"

With a chuckle, James answered, "Julia."

Robert shook his head. "Not Julia! I heard it from the Old Earl. He said you earned the title."

"Papa said that?" James felt hurt.

"The Old Earl told me. He laughs and plays with me. Papa said it would be best if I turned out like you." With his blue eyes probing in earnest, he added, "The Old Earl tells me stories about the Christmas Balls when he ran the estate."

Confused, James asked, "Not Papa?"

Robert shook his head. "The Old Earl told me he is to be kept a secret from everyone but you. He claims you are more like him than most of the Hawkthorns."

"When do you see the Old Earl?" James asked puzzled.

Robert smiled. "He visits me when I'm alone and sad. He's my friend."

"How do you know who he is?"

"He told me. Besides, his portrait hangs in the gallery. I could show it to you."

James shook his head and ran his fingers through his hair. Why would someone pretend to be a ghost around here? Perhaps he is but an imaginary friend for Robert. He remembered sometimes when he pretended to have a playmate. "Tomorrow we'll visit the gallery together, and you can show me his portrait. What time does your tutor begin your lesson?"

"Julia fits me into her schedule."

"Julia is your tutor?"

Robert proudly nodded his mop of black hair before he tipped his clear blue eyes to James'.

"You have no male tutor?" James asked.

Robert shook his head. "I like Julia."

"I like Julia, too." James vowed to take her to task tonight.

"We are working on my Greek this month," Robert boasted.

"Indeed. I might talk to Julia to see how you are doing. You are my responsibility."

Robert shook his head. "I want to be Julia's responsibility."

James raised his eyebrows. "Indeed?"

"Oh, yes, my lord," Robert whispered.

Seeing how badly he had handled the ever-influential Julia being the tutor, James already began to regret his hasty words. He hugged Robert again. "Do you ride?"

A sad look covered the boy's expressive face. "Not too well. I don't have Julia's bottom."

With effort James held his lips to a small smile. "I will teach you to become a dashing rider."

Robert turned all smiles. "The Old Earl told me you would make a rider out of me. Can we keep it a secret until I do well? I want to surprise Julia. She thinks I'll never be able to join the hunt."

With a hug and a kiss on the smooth childish cheek, James said, "You will become an excellent rider, Robert. And I will see that you are able to keep the slapping pace set by a pack of foxhounds. Now, I need to take care of some letters. I'll see you tomorrow."

Robert whispered, "Can we play soldiers again?"

"Indeed." He tousled the boy's hair. "I'll see you start your riding lessons, too."

Soon James will watch young Robert ride with the wind, and have a male tutor. As for Julia, she will be flirting with all sorts of eligible young men. James knew exactly what he wanted to do. And in no way would Julia go on teaching the boy. That was absolute nonsense. No snip of a girl was going to run this manor either. He reminded himself again that he held the title, Earl of Hawkthorn. The decision making would be solely up to him.

Immediately James sought out Aunt Shredda in the drawing room. "May I join you for tea?"

"Of course, my dear." She waved her fancy jeweled lorgnette indicating for him to sit in a chair near her. "I understood you were taking tea with Robert. Such a smart boy, so like your brother."

"Not exactly. Robert and I played with toy soldiers."

"Oh, dear, I so hoped you wouldn't teach him about soldiers." One dainty hand self- consciously reached up to pat her white hair. "I know they are a necessary evil, and our country needs them, but I never liked you being one." She leaned forward flicking her chest with a lace handkerchief. In a soft whisper, she added, "It worried one to distraction thinking about you out there with those French cannon. The French aim to kill every Englishman."

"Yes they do." James stretched his legs out from the flimsy chair and glared at her until she raised her eyes to him. "Aunt Shredda, I need to talk to you about Julia."

"Of course, my dear. I assume she has turned down your marriage proposal. Now we must make plans to marry Julia off." Aunt Shredda put her lorgnette to her eyes and peered at him.

What game was she playing? When she set her mind to an idea she rarely, if every, experienced a change of heart. he eyed her suspiciously, but did not speak of the exchange between him and Julia the previous day.

She continued, "I've been thinking about that friend of yours, Glen Sharn. I heard he is in London. I believe we need to bring him and perhaps a few other friends to Hawkthorn for the holiday." She paused and fluttered her handkerchief. "Dear me, that would seem too obvious. We need other eligible men. Perhaps even a duke."

"Winston Trembelle would be a good choice." He decided to play along with her, until he knew what she was about.

"I do suppose we will need to ask other young women. He has two lovely sisters. You might fall in love with one of them yourself, James. Very attractive girls." She eyed him expectantly.

He shook his head, wishing he could shake some sense into his aunt's head. She was barking up the wrong tree. "Don't plan on me falling in love."

"Oh, my dear, I'd so hoped being an earl would cure you of behaving like a rogue. It never seemed to suit you."

"I promise I will see Julia properly married and Robert properly educated to become the next earl." In no way would he live under the cat's paw.

"What more could an old lady ask." Aunt Shredda spoke in her sad what-can-I-do voice; waved her flimsy lace handkerchief until her hand rested against her throat and heaved a sigh heaven could hear.

Familiar with Aunt Shredda's performances, James eased himself out of the chair, ready to leave. "Don't believe for one moment I consider you an old lady or take for gospel anything you say. Arrange whatever parties you want for the holiday. Perhaps a ball on December twenty-third, like the Old Earl had during his day. He invited his neighbors to meet his house guests and celebrate Christmas."

"Wonderful idea, James. Just the thing." Aunt Shredda smiled. He noticed she almost clapped her hands before she restored her dignity and properly folded them, and that floppy handkerchief in her lap. "My brother never failed to make Christmas fun. What could be nicer than a ball, and a house party to celebrate the holidays! Leave it all in my hands." Her voice failed to hide her excitement.

James laughed. "Aunt Shredda, you don't fool me. You planned to have a ball all along."

"Don't be preposterous, I thought only of a small party, but your idea is much better. I expect a great deal of help from you, young man. And envision you paying attention to all the young women. I'm certain there is someone out there just perfect for you."

"Concentrate on a man for Julia." James gave his aunt a snappy salute. "And wait until I give you the go ahead to tell Julia."

"Surely I might mention the ball."

"Of course. But only talk of the town's people."

Aunt Shredda nodded and folded her hands. "Of course, my dear, that is of top importance."

James laughed, until he reached the hall. The matter of his bailiff crossed his mind. Unlike his aunt, it appeared Fogel was trying to avoid him, but why? The man seemed to spend his life in town. When I get hold of that old rascal, he will rue every day he spent in town!

Julia sat in the drawing room impatiently waiting for Aunt Shredda and James. At least Julia supposed he would join them for dinner; it was too much to hope that he had taken off for London already.

Her maid, Louise, had chosen a pale pink dress for her to wear. She suspected Aunt Shredda, who no longer wore half-mourning clothes, had something to do with the selection. Julia probably surprised Louise by neither fussing about the dress or about having her hair piled on top of her head. She wanted to look pretty, and sound interesting.

Self-consciously she arranged her skirt. What a silly thing to do. Hadn't she enough on her mind to think about without fussing about her appearance? She had squeezed in an hour with Robert for his Greek lessons, but he'd spent the whole time excitedly talking about playing with James and those blasted tin soldiers.

Not to mention the nonsense Robert told her. As if she would believe the Old Earl said James had a big heart, and the dragon's fire were only words. She so wished Aunt Shredda would not encourage Robert to talk about the Old Earl. What if James heard about the boy's wild imaginary friend? Or how can she explain she listened to a ghost? Did she want so badly to have James ask her to marry him she imagined the Old Earl advised her to slip into the bed? Surely everyone would know, and talk about the Old Earl if he truly haunted the manor. Maybe a servant is pretending to be a ghost.

Jameson arrived with Aunt Shredda following on his heels. He held out his arm for Aunt Shredda and smiled at Julia. "Come, Julia, I have another arm."

Aunt Shredda chuckled in delight. "We are late and have no time for chitchat before dinner."

Julia shyly accepted James' offer. As she placed her hand on his arm, a fork of lightning ran straight to her toes. Why had she never noticed such feelings before? How many men had offered their arm and nothing happened? She tried to conjure up the image of James as the dragon, but his smile shattered that vision. How could one know how it would feel to kiss a man until one did? All those silly Minerva Press novels of Aunt Shredda's rattled on about a hero's kiss, yet all those words were not nearly so extraordinary as Julia experienced with James that morning. She certainly had better sense than to fall for his flattering words. Even Robert had fallen under James' spell.

James seated Aunt Shredda to his right and Julia to his left before sitting at the head of the table.

It amused Julia the way James preened about being the Earl of Hawkthorn. He could read Greek and Latin, but his father claimed it took Eton to accomplish this. Yet James appeared different from his scholastic father, who lacked interest in the ton, his title, and his lands. James chose to be a soldier not a scholar, but then she, too, felt no devotion to translating. Except for profit. Her interest, and her heart belonged to Robert and the Hawkthorn tenants. Neither belonged to her.

She thought back to her life before Hawkthorn, the part she could remember. Her father, Marquess of Calatin, a noted scholar had little if any interest in his title, though he did have a bailiff that kept his lands profitable. Yet she believed him a thoughtful and loving father, he failed to provide for his wife and daughter before his untimely death. James held different priorities than the men she knew best.

She squeezed her eyes shut and held back the tears that threatened to fall, it was difficult to belong to no one and no one belonged to her. With a flutter to her heart, she forced herself to listen to the dinner table conversation.

"Julia, Aunt Shredda wants to have a ball, and invite the town's people. A good way for them to get used to me being earl."

Before Julia could comment, James began to entertain with tales of fighting the French. Humor colored his stories. No wonder Robert loved to play soldier with James. All the exciting glory and fun on a table far from where the realistic hazards of life and death intrude.

Aunt Shredda quietly said, "Thanks for sparing me the horror. I truly appreciate that you sold your commission. The estate needs you."

"Speaking of the estate, Fogel can't be holding his breath to talk to me." James shook his head and frowned in disgust. "I have yet to speak to the man. He seems to always be off jaunting about town. He had better be around in less than a week. For Stewart Jones will be here in a sennight and I will need to talk to Fogel before Stewart arrives."

Aunt Shredda nodded. "I haven't seen Mr. Fogel or Mr. Jones in years."

The fork nearly dropped from Julia's hand. She tightened her grip. In a sennight all pretense would stop. She could hardly bear to think that all her plans for the tenants could be abolished, but soon the solicitor would be here, and she must suffer exposure. No one lied. But James will discover that neither the solicitor, Mr. Martin, nor Julia had been completely honest either. How will James take it when he finds out the truth about Fogel?

James looked at Aunt Shredda. "In the meantime, I need to go to my other country estate, Willowgreen, and see to my other tenants' most urgent needs. Gilbert, a friend that served me well in the cavalry, is managing Willowgreen. He wrote that Papa did not keep it up, but neither did he damage Willowgreen. It will become a profitable place for an heir, if I turn up with more than one." He winked to lessen the seriousness of his tone.

"I had forgotten Willowgreen." Aunt Shredda turned to explain to Julia, "Jameson's grandfather on his mother's side left him the place." She looked back at James. "Oh, dear, I hope it is not in complete ruin. Your father probably forgot about it."

"Far from ruin. Aunt Shredda, don't trouble your mind about such things. I am quite able to afford a London season for Julia from the income of Willowgreen."

If that were the case, then mayhap he would live at Willowgreen instead of Hawkthorn. A knot twisted in Julia's stomach at the thought of him living elsewhere and leaving her and Robert here. She almost forgot he mentioned a London season.

"It will be no fun for Julia unless she has an escort. If we must attend, surely you will join us, Jameson."

But Julia didn't want a season, if only she could make them see that they were wasting their time planning it for her.

"Perhaps Julia might enjoy a season without someone hanging on her arm." Then he turned to Julia and abruptly asked, "Who decorated the drawing room?"

Before Julia had a chance to explain, Aunt Shredda rolled her eyes and said in her droll humor, "Certainly not a Hawkthorn gentleman." She raised her heavily jeweled hand and pointed around the dining room. "This room hasn't been touched, and it's dreadfully drafty, dark and unpleasant for three to sit at a table for twenty."

James looked around, then frowned at Aunt Shredda.

With a haughty manner she clapped her hands. "The drawing room is light and airy. The curtains are not nearly so heavy." She leaned closer to James and flitted her handkerchief to get his full attention. "You no longer stumble over too many footstools. You can sit close enough to speak with assurance that the person can hear you. Even the vicar who speaks so softly at times. Don't you agree, Jameson?" Her voice, firm and definite, demanded a yes.

"Indeed, just unexpected. And the missing furniture?"

Julia spoke quietly. "You need not try to protect me Aunt Shredda. I refurbished the room almost two years ago. Your father thought it pleasant to let the outside light in. In fact, the number of windows surprised him. And when I discovered the little room in the back overloaded with so much furniture, I talked your father into loaning the pieces to his tenants. They are all very proud of the responsibility of caring for the Hawkthorn furnishings."

"Indeed." With a quizzical lift of an eyebrow, he looked from Aunt Shredda to Julia. "I recognized the furniture when I visited their homes."

"Don't look so shocked, James." Aunt Shredda laughed.

James leaned back in his chair, and Julia couldn't determine if he was shocked or angry.

Aunt Shredda continued, "When I was a child I hated that dark room. Your father was right, we never saw the room in daylight. Our father, the Old Earl," she pointed a finger at him and went on. "Yes, even you, Jameson, called him that, spent his time tending to business, pushing his tenants, cursing the weather or anybody that interfered with record crop production. Our mother shielded us from his irritation by teaching your father and me every language she knew. Mother, a bluestocking, through and through, made life interesting, books exciting, and her balls were a pleasant memory that continued with her husband, the Old Earl." She turned to Julia, adding, "Do you find the room looks larger?"

"Yes, much -- "

"I don't believe there is any place left to hide from angry eyes." James interrupted. He must be a mind reader, thought Julia. Then he added, "Poor Robert."

Reaching over to pat James' hand, Aunt Shredda said, "No one here has angry eyes. Breakfast in the room off the garden is delightful. Close to the kitchen the rolls are hot, butter melts on them. Tomorrow morning you must join us. It's pleasant to hear the birds singing in the summertime."

"Great spot, I'm sure," he agreed, but Julia noted he hadn't committed himself to eating breakfast with them. To Julia he said, "When you see Fogel tell him to stay put so that I may find him."

Warmth overtook her checks; she glanced at her plate and wished herself elsewhere. What would he do to her when he learned the truth?

Aunt Shredda came to her rescue. "We'll leave you to your wine, Jameson. I do hope you will join us later in the drawing room."

"I'm going to bed. I had very little sleep last night and I sent word to Gilbert I would arrive early at Willowgreen on the morrow. I'll be gone only a few days, then return in time to meet with Stewart Jones."

It seemed that Aunt Shredda and James had talked of everyone in the past, and the time had sat heavily on Julia. The minute she stepped away from the dining room, she breathed easier. Yet, there was much to do. She must prepare for the solicitor. Mr. Jones had grown used to Martin taking Fogel's place. She never lied about Fogel. If only James married her before Mr. Jones arrived. Surely a misunderstanding on James' part could not constitute grounds for breaking their engagement.

CHAPTER 6

Four days later, James traipsed over to the bailiff's cottage. Still Fogel hadn't returned and he needed to ask the old man about the tenants. Then he would question Julia about the agriculture book she had taught them to read. Had she charmed gruff old Fogel, too?

Disgusted, he went back to the manor. Walking up from the stable, he spotted the maze and decide to dash through it. Surprised, he found himself a bit lost in the overgrown roots in the pathway, tangled vines clinging across the path, then suddenly he spotted the door hidden by vines and entered. He took a moment to catch his breath and noticed a wooden box sitting on the shelf almost hidden from view. So this is where Robert hid the old foot soldiers to keep them safe from the dragon. "Trust takes a little time," he whispered in the darkness and smiled at Robert's precaution. He trudged up the old hidden stairway to sneak into the library, planning to choose a book to read to Robert before others were aware he had returned.

James reached the library and stopped. Through the secret panel, he heard someone moving about in the room. Aunt Shredda hated the place. Who would have the nerve to invade his domain? He had made it clear from the first day he returned that all his business would be conducted in his library. Though he was not nearly as angry as curious, he slowly slid the hidden panel six inches to see Julia meticulously gathering books by Shakespeare. She seemed determined to place the collection on the same shelf.

He watched her standing next to the bookcase looking toward the ceiling her fists firmly planted on her hips, talking to the books, "Hamlet, what are you doing on the top shelf? What a nuisance."

She moved a heavy walnut chair away from the library table closer to the shelf, lifted her skirt and petticoats to her knees and put her foot on the seat. James' heart raced, and he gazed longingly at her shapely legs and slim ankles. Then she reached out and put her hands on the wooden arms. With only a slight bounce she pulled herself onto the chair and planted her slippered feet solidly on the seat.

Most of her long golden hair had already uncoiled from the ribbon, leaving only a few curls on top of her head. The book was still beyond her grasp. "Hamlet, who put you out of everyone's reach?" She balanced a foot on each of the chair's arms while holding the chair back and leaning toward the bookcase. Establishing her hold on a shelf, she stretched until her fingers finally touched the bottom of the cover and she gave a tug on its spine. "Glory, glory!" she exclaimed and tugged harder.

She lost her balance. With one giant step, James rushed forward and caught her in midair. It actually appeared to him as though she was pushed into his arms. Or had he been pushed to her?

"What are you trying to do?" he demanded angrily. The imp could have broken her pretty neck. Suddenly he realized he cared for her, but not as a wife, only his ward.

Embarrassed at finding herself trapped in his arms she tried to wiggle free. She couldn't get away. "Did you push me?" she asked in an accusing tone.

He frowned. "No! Why are you in my library? Does that chair resemble a tree?"

She felt herself flush as she glanced at his black hair. It tumbled over his forehead and she wanted to reach up and touch the lock of wayward hair. Then she caught his sea green eyes glaring in reproof. She wanted to see him smile. Her behavior was unbecoming, but she raised her chin and demurely murmured, "You were not expected before tomorrow, my lord."

"A good thing I returned," he snapped, breaking the tenderness of the moment. "That would have been a nasty fall. Why didn't you use the ladder."

"It's broken." She tried to look away from him so he couldn't see her disappointment. "Thank you for saving me."

"You've turned sweeter than when I saved you from falling out of the old oak tree." He sounded decidedly top lofty.

"I was almost twelve," she parried defensively. "You scolded me and made me cry."

"You kissed me," he grinned.

"You kissed me first."

"Just to make you stop crying."

"I'm not crying."

"No you're not." He cleared his throat.

How odd! His anger had disappeared from his eyes and she still struggled to slow her heartbeat, and keep her arms from creeping around his neck to obtain the kiss she suddenly craved. His eyes darkened to the green of a midnight sea. What was he thinking? Aware of her heart pounding and heat building in her midsection, she had to get away from him before she made a fool of herself. "Put me down!"

As though James just realized he held her in his arms, he hastily set her down. Then backed away a step. "You're all grown up," he added in a whisper. He quickly cooled her ardor with his next words, "I've talked to Aunt Shredda about finding you a suitable husband."

Not knowing what else to do, she countered back, and threw in a smile she was far from feeling. "She can try, but I'm not interested in marrying any dandies. You will do."

"We will talk about that later. You are not dealing with a fool. I'm certain you were not in my bed when I climbed in the window."

Julia shrugged her shoulders in a show of indifference. She had no intention of admitting her true feelings. "Aunt Shredda agrees with me. You are quite suitable."

He stepped toward her, but she would not be intimidated. "Surely Aunt Shredda could line up a man who isn't a dandy."

Julia could hardly breathe when he moved closer. Yet she could not let him defile anyone as kind and thoughtful as Aunt Shredda. "They are not my style. They are all..." she shrugged before adding, "libertines."

He raised a brow. "What do you know about libertines?"

"Enough to know I don't want to marry one. I don't fancy I want to marry any rogue running around London."

"Have you met any rogues?" he demanded, though she could see he bit his lower lip to keep from smiling.

Why did he have to stand so near that she felt the heat of his body? "Only you."

"Me?" His attempt to look innocent failed on her. "Nearly five years ago I spent maybe a month at Hawkthorn. Unforgettable days they were, too. I rescued your cat, saved you from falling out of a tree, and I taught you to swim. Now I've saved you from falling and breaking your foolish neck. How can you call me a rogue?"

She flinched at the suggestion of being foolish, even though to him it might appear to be true. "Aunt Shredda says you're a lovable rogue." She tried to soften her earlier accusation. "Also that you need to marry for an heir. But you have Robert." Her hand reached her mouth too late to stop the words. She had said too much.

Suddenly his face lost his teasing smile. "I need to talk with Aunt Shredda. It is scandalous for her to talk behind my back."

"She doesn't tell anyone but me," Julia quickly said hoping to placate him. "To others she sings only your praise."

"What makes you so positive she only speaks to you?" he demanded frowning.

Yet he looked incredibly handsome. Again, that unruly lock of eBoney hair tempted her to reach out and run her fingers through it before pushing it gently back. What happened to her good sense? He sounded so stern, she wanted to run and hide. And yet he looked so lovable she wanted to kiss him.

"She made me promise not to tell anyone. I assumed you already knew what you were. Besides she thought it would prepare me to flirt with you. I'm dreadfully sorry I haven't learned how, but it doesn't seem necessary for an arranged marriage."

"What?" His eyebrows rose and he stared at her.

She could feel his breath on her face. "Please, don't look at me like that. I told her I accepted you."

"Then why is she planning a party for you to meet other men?"

"I didn't know she was. I thought it was you who wanted me to meet other men." She was more confused than ever.

"I think Aunt Shredda is playing a game with us. For the time being, let her think what she will. Between you and me, I don't want anyone to hear you say we are engaged. I expect you to go through a season and reconsider your answer at that time."

"That will be unnecessary. I think you will do fine," she repeated in a brisk manner.

"Where do you get such notions?"

She tilted her chin. "I read."

"Did my father and stepmother allow you to read Gothic romances?"

"They didn't know. I read all the Greek and Latin books, too."

With an exasperated sigh, James stated, "You don't know what it is like to be thoroughly kissed by a man -- or do you?"

Standing on tiptoes, she flung her arms around his neck in answer to his challenge. With only a slight tug she brought his lips to hers. His mouth moved back and forth. Then his tongue pushed past her defenses and parted her lips. The sensation was new to her as she bravely began to duel with his tongue. She had to stop. Yet when his hand touched her breast, and heat surged to her mid-section, she didn't want to stop.

He pulled away suddenly, and held her at arm's length.

She stood still, with her eyes closed, until her pulse calmed. "I presume that is a thorough kiss. You can see, it didn't change my mind. You will do fine." She hoped he couldn't hear her knees knocking. It wouldn't do for him to know how much his kiss affected her.

"Give me your word that you will keep this engagement of ours between the two of us quiet."

She lowered her lashes demurely. "Only if you give me your word that you will marry me Christmas week instead of forcing me to go to London in March for a season." After all, she promised Robert to keep them together, what a fitting Christmas present this would make.

"Does it need to be that soon?"

Her shoulders straightened. "I think it only reasonable that you get a special license. When you show it to me, I will ask Aunt Shredda not to say anything until Christmas." She saw an unreadable expression in his eyes. She hoped it wasn't fear or revulsion. Perhaps she didn't please him. Once she thought James could dally in town. Now, she wasn't so sure she could stand his absence for any great length of time.

Both his hands were fisted as he breathed in and out as if to control his temper. "If you still insist on marrying me, I will oblige you," he conceded. "But first you must meet a few younger men."

"Of course, my lord." She tried to sound unconcerned, though the words came out touched with sarcasm.

"What kind of a man do you favor?"

"Faithful." She said the first word that came to mind, then cringed, wishing she had not said it. Why did he have to stand within an inch of her? Her heart beat faster. A strange feeling throbbed lower. She needed to change the subject and dispel the mood that hung as a heavy cloud around them.

"I don't need to go to London and shop. Aunt Shredda bought me enough clothes to last for years. They are supposed to hide the fact that I can read Greek and Latin." A nervous laugh escaped her. She nipped her lip. Why did he make her feel awkward? Why was he staring at her?

He continued to study her. She had to say something to change the subject, so she blurted out, "Any news about the war?"

She whirled back to the stacks of books wishing he would go away and leave her alone. He made her apprehensive, her statements came out in disjointed sentences.

Without warning, he stepped between her and the bookcases. Just as quickly he pulled her into his warm embrace, leaned down and brushed her lips with his. She pressed closer. Slowly, he released her and moved discreetly away.

"I sold my army commission. I've not heard any change in the war." He cleared the emotion from his throat. "Are you planning to steal my books?"

The distance between them didn't help her taut nerves. After a deep breath she turned from him and said, "Steal your books? I believe these books are not all your personal property."

"I'm the Earl. The fact is they belong to me."

"Not the ones your father gave me. Not the ones I translated," Julia insisted.

"As long as they're in my library," he drawled. She glanced over her shoulder in time to see the boyish half smile that softened his features. Did he really meant to tease her? "I consider them my property," he paused for only a second without giving her a chance to comment. "Who taught you to translate?"

"My mother and some tutors, of course." She needed to keep her mouth shut. Quickly she pulled out her handkerchief, then thought better of weeping or behaving in the same manner Aunt Shredda chose to handle men. "The library needs to be organized. I must get the books recorded and back before tomorrow." She looked defiantly into his eyes and swallowed. "A message from Mr. Jones said he would arrive here tomorrow."

"Wasn't it addressed to me?"

She bit her lip and looked down at the floor. James will more likely throttle her instead of want to kiss her when he learns the truth about his steward. "I've been amiss. Mr. Jones usually addressed his missives to the manor. I learned to open the messages and give the housekeeper the date Mr. Jones expected to arrive. She always readied a room for him. My aunt and step-uncle did not like their work interrupted by mundane duties. By my taking over these chores, life in the manor ran smoothly. However, I'll remember in future to bring them to you. Please forgive me."

"Thank you. I'm sure Mr. Jones will be pleased with your efforts. Do not climb on a chair again! I'll send someone to help you with the books."

Sudden anger burned in his chest. Did Julia believe the Hawkthorns unfit to take care of their duties? She needed guidance and discipline more than he did. He had served in the army where discipline preserved one's life.

She had no right to tell him what to do. It might take an older, more tolerant man to handle her in marriage. Someone about my age.

CHAPTER 7

"Fiddlesticks!" James has the impudence to demand anything of me. We are not related! An act of chance made him my guardian. And only my promise to Robert will force me to restrain my temper. "Well, you're not the only one who is angry, my lord," Julia whispered to herself.

How did he get in the library so quietly? She looked around. Nothing appeared out of place. Perhaps she had been lost in a daydream. How in the world could she have slipped, and let him know she could translate? He brought out the worst in her.

She lurched at the sound of tapping on the door. "Come in."

Ellis entered ready to help her, and within a few minutes had all the books off the top two shelves. "Please call me, Lady Julia, when you need further assistance. I will be glad to return the books to the shelf in any manner you like."

Julia smiled. "Thank you."

Glancing over the volumes, she commented to the empty room, "So the dragon is back and he intends to make his presence felt and his authority known. Well, I will see about that!"

Then quite by accident she found the original old manuscript written and illustrated by James' grandmother, dedicated to the 'Hawkthorn Man' who would dare to turn into a Dragon like the first Hawkthorn man did long ago. An exciting adventure that she remembered reading over and over again. It had seemed so real she was certain James was that man. After a moment she put the document back among the fairy tales and sat at the desk to record and stack the leather bound volumes.

After about an hour of cataloging titles she moved an ancient book and a small scrap of paper fluttered to the floor. Leaning over, she rescued the paper. The date read 1760, and the message was printed in Greek. She struggled to make out the scratchy lettering. Slowly she read out loud, "You must marry the earl. My spirit will help you." She admired the rose sketched on the corner. It gave a romantic look to the old parchment.

Julia chuckled. "And to what Hawkthorn bride had that message been sent?" "You...must be...the bride," the ghostly voice whispered, barely audible, yet it echoed in the room. Spontaneously the wispy mist twirled around and blended into the wooden panels of the room. A chill rose up her arms.

The words rang through her head, and her heart pounded. The mist and the voice were as clear in the daylight as in the darkness of her bedroom. Once more she read the Greek words. Why would anyone pretend to be a ghost? How could Robert be so sure that the Old Earl roamed the house? Did he hear this same voice? She stared across the room and saw only the wooden panels, no vapor hanging in the air, not even a trace of disturbance.

These silly thoughts of a wispy ghost brought a smile to her face while turning over the parchment for another message. But instead of a message she found a map of stairs. Hidden stairs? She gasped. If there were still such stairs in the manor, surely she could explore them. They certainly would not be as confusing or frightening as the Hawkthorn Manor's overgrown maze. Though the lure of the stairs tugged at her adventurous soul her eyes again caught an unworldly image floating in the corner of the room. She forced herself to turn away and forget the spirit.

Her mind immediately turned to the new earl's thorough kiss. The first time she kissed him, he had frowned. This time he kissed her twice and touched her in a way she should not have allowed. Yet, his kisses snatched her breath away, and she wanted to kiss him again and again.

With a shrug, she dismissed her wandering mind and pulled herself back to recording and stacking. At last, finished, she called Ellis and directed him to place the Greek and Latin sets on the top shelves. No need to aggravate James over those books when there were so many other matters which would bring the two of them into conflict.

From what Aunt Shredda and her step-uncle in the past implied, she doubted the new Earl of Hawkthorn would ever want to read Latin and Greek. Did he believe the pursuit of knowledge would interfere with his reputation of caring for his estate during the day and loving the ladies of the night? Why did that thought anger her now, when it hadn't while Aunt Shredda plotted ways to make her attractive to the new earl?

Julia laughed to herself remembering the morning when she crawled into bed with the dragon. The very moment she saw the surprise on James' face, she no longer doubted she could keep her promise to Robert. She wouldn't mind being the new earl's countess.

Aunt Shredda's strategy did not include Julia in bed with James before they were married, but without a doubt it pleased her to think of them married. Maybe Robert had developed persuasive powers. Julia wrapped her arms protectively around herself. Had Aunt Shredda doubted all along that Julia could manipulate James with an elaborate flirtation scheme?

Julia paced around the garden fountain building her courage to admit the truth to James.

"Lady Julia, the solicitor is in the library going over the accounts with the earl. They have sent me for Fogel." Ellis' voice quavered.

"I will handle it. Please send for Martin to come to the house and wait in the hall. I'm going to the library."

Ellis reached out a shaking hand and caught her arm. "Lord Jameson will be mad as hops. I am worried for you, my lady." Ellis hung his head. He had spoken of the new earl as if he were still a boy.

"Have faith in me, Ellis. He will not harm me," she said, though she had her doubts.

Julia never expected to see Ellis ruffled. She tried to reassure him with a smile as he released her arm. Though her heart raced, she spoke softly, "Lord Jameson's the earl now and will control his anger."

Ellis flushed, nodded his head and quickly departed.

Drawing in a deep breath, she threw back her shoulders, and marched toward the library not daring to hesitate lest her determination falter. She raised her fist to the old oak door, knocked twice, pulled the brass knob and advanced into the library before James had a chance to say a word.

"It is time I confess," she blurted out.

James and Mr. Jones stumbled over the chair legs as they hastened to stand. In stunned silence they gapped at her.

She stood ramrod straight, and continued, "Fogel has been dead for over a year. I have not lied -- he's been in town. He is buried there in the church cemetery. It started two years ago...when his hands began to tremble. I helped with the books. Martin learned to read, and he helped Fogel. Martin has kept the place running...better than it has since the Old Earl died." She took a deep breath again. "At least that is what the tenants say, and your father never objected. If there are any complaints or questions I'm here to answer for my actions."

Julia's heart pounded against her ribs before she spotted the Old Earl in the corner of the room. The old man grinned while swinging his cane close to James as though warning the new earl that he had better beware, that is if James could see the vision. Julia released a sigh as her heart calmed. The Old Earl was with her.

Mr. Jones cleared his throat and swung around to face James. "I've suspected, my lord. I realized Fogel's hands shook and he couldn't write. It seemed logical when he claimed he had it copied for clarity." The solicitor shrugged. "They have carefully protected Fogel for several years and Martin has proven to be very competent. The books have never been in better condition. The tenants achieve better profits every year. There is no discontent. Not even the little that the Old Earl occasionally ran into."

James looked from his solicitor to Julia and back. "Did you speak to my father of this?"

Stewart Jones took out a snowy white handkerchief and wiped his forehead. "I did. He insisted I talk to Lady Julia. Said she could handle any problem."

"She's barely seventeen!" James shouted. Anger sparked from his eyes. "When did she take over?"

Mr. Jones raised his chin. "Your father hated to think of money or tenants. He forever had his nose in a book translating. I don't know when but she is quite capable of -- "

"At thirteen." Julia interrupted, with a calm she was far from feeling. "I knew all the tenants and their children. I wanted them to learn to read. I helped Fogel, and he helped me teach the children to read. Mr. and Mrs. Martin always stood as my friends."

James and Mr. Jones stared at her. She felt like a ninnyhammer. If only she had worn a new gown.

James shook his finger at her. "How did you get the extra money?"

"Sold translations."

"Did my father know you were selling his translations to put roofs on the tenant's homes?" James questioned in an authoritative voice.

She clutched at folds in her dress unsure how much longer she could face James. "I didn't sell any that weren't my own. Your father and stepmother gave translations to me as gifts. They were mine. I had a right to sell them." She bit her lip and forced her tears not to fall.

The old solicitor came to her defense. "It has proved very profitable."

James nodded, slowly turning back to face her. "Did they ever know?" His eyes pierced her heart. Regret filled her for selling the gifts.

She shook her head while her trembling hands hugged her waist. "Most of the books I sold were children's stories by German and Italian writers. I translated them myself to read to Robert. I still have some of their gifts."

His eyes grew chilly. "It seems I'm greatly in your debt," James ran his fingers through his hair in a manner she had seen him use to control his temper in the past. "You will be paid for your sacrifice, of course."

"No!" She wrung her hands and her tears fell unheeded. The ghost moved closer and his swinging cane gave her a sense of protection. "It was my way of paying back my step-uncle for making my aunt happy and giving us a home. When my uncle died, my other uncle became the Marquess of Calatin. He had no use for his brother's widow and niece. The dower house hadn't been occupied for eighty years and was in a sad state of disrepair. The new Marquess of Calatin refused to repair it. Aunt and I were forced to seek shelter from distant relatives."

"Your aunt...a Marchioness?" James felt ashamed at his previous attitude. "How did she meet my father?"

"My uncle, her husband, went to school with your father. Aunt was also a translator. It seemed natural she would fall in love with your father. I believe he loved her, too."

"London believes it a love match," James added in a sympathetic tone.

A heavy heart moved Julia to change the subject from her familial losses. "As for your tenants, they are my friends and I like being with them. They taught me things you do not find in books, my lord."

He raised an eyebrow. "Such as?"

"Money alone does not make one happy. It is in the sharing one's possessions and of one's self that is important. " She whirled around and left the room.

Martin stood waiting in the hall, his hat in his hand. "Do you need me, Lady Julia?"

"Thank you for coming." She spotted a footman. "Please announce Mr. Martin to James and Mr. Jones." She ran up the stairs to her bedroom swiping at her tears.

It was over now. Everything was over. How would she ever tell Robert she had destroyed it all? A lot of good that ghost did grinning like a silly cat while leaning on his cane. She dried her tears on a handkerchief Aunt Shredda had embroidered with her initials.

As she stared at her bedraggled face in the mirror, her eye caught the wispy mist form above her head. She glared at the Old Earl. "I have not destroyed anything. I have kept your precious Hawkthorn from decaying. What is wrong with Hawkthorn men?"

"James will understand soon, you will see. It is hard for him to understand how an angel can create miracles that would down a strong man."

"I'm no angel. That's nothing but downstairs gossip about me stepping in to help Fogel. Besides, I promised Robert to marry James, and I do not forget my promises. James offered for my hand, and agreed to marry him by special license. I will hold him to his promise."

The wispy image blew through the wall. She wanted to call the Old Earl back. She muttered under her breath, "Heavens, I'm no better than Robert. Dreaming dreams. I will marry James, even though he slipped into my bed while I cringed in fear behind the curtains. I gathered the courage to join him before daylight, and that is why he can't refuse me in becoming his wife."

After Martin left, James turned to his solicitor.

Stewart Jones held up his hand. "Before you speak my lord, I think you ought to hear me out. Lady Julia was raised to follow in her aunt's bluestocking ways. She only received praise for her academic accomplishments, which were many. The vicar tutored her along with Baron Handser's two sons, as well as his own two sons. These boys outstripped everyone in their ability to handle a horse or a team. Julia kept up with them and did better than they in the classroom. I know this for a fact, my lord, for I acted as solicitor for the Marquess of Calatin. His death brought his brother to power, and he is a cruel man. Julia had every right to be grateful to your father for his protection."

"But at the age of thirteen, she was too young to take on my father's responsibilities," James insisted. "How could any of you allow this to happen?"

"Lady Julia is clever. No one suspected the many things she did." Stewart shook his head. "She adored both your father and Fogel. Though two such different men would be hard to find."

James sighed and slumped farther into the leather chair next to his desk. "You are right. I should be grateful."

"Your father knew you would be a better earl. A finer man never existed, but he did not have an ounce of interest in his estate or his title."

James stared at Stewart. "I know. But Julia -- "

"You must accept Julia for what she is. She cannot be suddenly changed. Perhaps children will keep her busy. I don't believe she plays any instrument or sings, yet I think of her as an angel."

"I shall not try to judge her too harshly, but she must be reimbursed."

Stewart turned to the papers in front of him, cleared his throat. "Now shall we make plans for the future of Hawkthorn?"

James smiled at the old man. Try as he might, Stewart wouldn't make James accept a child for a bride or a bailiff. Instead, James had plans for Julia and they did not include her running Hawkthorn in any manner!

"Louise, I have the headache. I prefer to take my supper here in my room. Please be a dear and fetch it for me."

"Yes, my lady. I will bring it up directly." The older woman curtsied and departed the room.

It wouldn't do for Julia to see James or Mr. Jones until everything calmed down.

The next morning, she purposely lingered over her toilet until it nearly drove her maid crazy.

The clock struck eight, well past Julia's usual time to break her fast. At last, she courageously descended the stairs, and rushed to the little dining room adjacent to the kitchen. There she could look out the windows at the herb garden and watch the small, garden fountain gush water over the plants while she tried to make sense out of James' attitude.

Expecting to gain strength in a peaceful environment, she pushed the door open. James and Mr. Jones were seated at the table drinking their coffee. Had she waited another half-hour, the men may have departed for a morning ride and the little dinning room would have been hers alone. From the looks of his fitted brown striped wool tailcoat, beige breeches and black leather hessian boots, James was dressed for riding.

Both men rose as she entered. James rang and a maid appeared at the door, he said, "Please bring Lady Julia her usual breakfast." The minute the maid left, James waved his arm to a chair.

Julia nodded to him and Mr. Jones, then sat in the chair James had pulled out for her. "Good morning," she whispered.

Mr. Jones immediately sat. "Good morning, Lady Julia, we have been awaiting your appearance."

Inhaling deeply, she looked directly at James, momentarily forgetting she was not in charge. "I warn you, my lord. I shall stand for no..." She bit her lip to stop from issuing him an order. After four years of running the manor, it would take time for her to emotionally give up control to the earl.

"Why, Julia, I abhor seeing you in distress." He laughed, adding as she opened her mouth to speak, "You are looking quite charming this morning."

"Thank you, my lord." When she donned her latest light blue muslin gown with the fine printed overskirt she'd thought with satisfaction that anyone seeing her in it would be hard put to believe her ready to be tossed to the wolves. Besides, the blue color highlighted her eyes.

James put his elbow on the table to rest his chin on his fist. "Perhaps you can continue to warn me now."

"Oh, that." She peered into his green eyes, wishing he didn't look so disarming. "Well, I simply wanted to warn you not to undermine me for what I have done to build the estates income. I hope you will not demand the tenants return the furniture I have leant them either. They are quite proud that I trusted them with such valuable momentoes of past generations. I know you must do what you think best, but please consider the great strides Mr. Martin has made in working as bailiff in Fogel's absence. Things have been running smoothly. Another bailiff would probably confuse the tenants and the system we have worked so ardently at."

"You will be pleased to know that I have talked with Martin with regards to continuing on as bailiff. Since you taught him so well to read and write, he has more of a reason to improve Hawkthorn. A matter of pride, if you will." A dimpled smile graced James' features. He arched a brow, adding, "And now, Stewart and I are leaving for London shortly, and I was wondering if you wanted me to purchase anything for you there."

"No, my lord. I can think of nothing." She didn't know quite what to think of it. He had done an about-face since yesterday; besides, he was full of surprises today.

"Perhaps I could open the town house and you and Aunt Shredda might want to Christmas shop."

"It is only November."

James gave a knowing smile. "Your list might of course increase later."

"No, not that. Perhaps a few days in London would be nice. There are many places Robert has never seen."

"I plan to show London to Robert myself," James quickly retorted.

Her heart fell at the thought of missing the young boy's excitement at visiting the city for the first time. After all, she was more familiar with Robert, having lived with him all his life, as opposed to James who was just beginning to come to understand Robert. Staring at her plate of ham and eggs, she did her best to keep her hurt feelings in check. Mayhap this was James' way of spending time with Robert, taking him to London.

"I'm sorry, Julia, I didn't mean you and Aunt Shredda would not be welcome to spend time with Robert." When she didn't look up, James swore, "Confound it! I want the boy to see London through a man's eye. He wants to visit Tattersall's. A lady is not allowed admittance there."

A laugh escaped her lips at the vision of her trying to enter the hallowed establishment. "You want to be a boy again. That's lovely. Robert will enjoy it."

James chuckled in agreement. "You may have the right of it. And may I remind you that since you are both my wards, I can have it my way."

"Of course." She would allow him this round. Perhaps Robert would appreciate seeing London through James' eyes. She suddenly felt hungry and returned to her plate of eggs with enthusiasm.

"Lady Julia," Mr. Jones interrupted her thoughts, "the books are in perfect order as usual. And Mr. Martin is pleased to be appointed bailiff and will be moving into the larger cottage very soon. It seems there are things that must be taken care of in the cottage first. A gesture, he assured us, meant to please his wife."

"That is good news. Thank you for recommending Martin." Julia raised the porcelain cup to her lips, tasting the black Bohea tea. "Did Ellis see you this morning, Mr. Jones?"

"Regarding the two books? Yes. "I will sell them if you wish, but there is no need."

The muscles in her stomach tightened. Naturally her independence was not a matter of concern to the solicitor, nor to any man. "It's imperative. The ram has been ordered."

"The earl has sufficient funds to cover the cost."

"But you don't understand. There are other plans," she whispered.

Mr. Jones looked at James and frowned.

Why couldn't Mr. Jones just have sold the books and left James out of this? "Sell them, sir." Julia demanded in an even voice.

James sat back in his chair. "Do you wish Stewart to invest the money for you, Julia?"

"No!"

"He is very good at turning a profit. I have no need of your money," James insisted.

With her hands pressed against the table, uncontrolled anger in her voice, she turned to Mr. Jones. "Why did you tell him about the books and the ram? They were of no concern to him."

"Lady Julia, I'm his solicitor." Concern filled Mr. Jones' voice. "I would never hurt you. This is for the best. Martin told him all the plans you have initiated. The Earl agreed with his bailiff."

Julia studied Mr. Jones. It was evident he understood her feelings from the kindness she saw in his face.

"Sometimes as much as we love our ideas, we cannot change the laws." The solicitor spoke softly. "The earl has the right to know. It is his land, his tenants and he has more than enough money to pay for all the improvements. In fact the tenants are also turning a very hefty profit this year. I believe it has come about from your deeds, Lady Julia. The earl appreciates that, too."

"Please forgive my rudeness, Mr. Jones. I do not relinquish my dreams easily." Her voice trembled; she cleared her throat.

James put his hand over hers. "I've read your book on agriculture. I believe you can share your ideas with me."

Heat moved up her arm from his touch. Surely a dragon would not elicit such a response from her.

After a moment, he interrupted her thoughts, "I, too, have dreams, Julia."

She glanced up into his unreadable expression. Could one of his dreams entail marrying her off to someone else?

CHAPTER 8

Julia rushed down to the yellow parlor at Aunt Shredda's summons to be on time for tea. From the urgency of the missive, Julia tried not to believe a monstrous problem awaited her.

The smile on Aunt Shredda filled her voice as well. She said sweetly, "It will be delightful!"

"What do you mean, Aunt?" Julia swallowed her anxiety the moment the older woman fluttered her handkerchief.

"James has the most marvelous idea. Too bad you were ill last night and missed dinner. He told me what he wanted us to do." Aunt Shredda leaned forward and continued, "It will be like the Christmases when my father was alive and directed the celebration. We will have mistletoe, holly with bright red berries trailing down the stair banister. Caroling. Remember how sad we where last Christmas? I never liked being dressed in black. Especially for the holidays."

Julia cringed with the memory of the loneliness. Poor young Robert was in the dismals. "What are the earl's plans?"

Aunt Shredda smiled. "Music, dancing, a ball which translates into guests. A Christmas house party."

"A house party!" Julia's breath escaped before she could control it. James had done it again! Forcing her to socialize with members of the ton. She had to have faith that James would keep his promise by obtain a special marriage license and marry her during the holidays. With mulish determination she decided she could handle anything James dreamed up; December twenty-fifth wasn't a very long wait.

Aunt Shredda twittered, and talked incessantly of plans for the Christmas house party. She even followed Julia all about the manor to consult about one great idea after another. The Christmas happiness exuded by Aunt Shredda had all the servants whistling carols. Even Robert and Miss Harper were excited and took every Christmas book from the library.

"I've another idea, Julia!" Aunt Shredda shouted.

Julia winced with every new whim.

"My dear friend, Mildred Raynaud married a Frenchman who died young and left her a very wealthy widow. Mildred entertained across the continent. Should I write and ask her to help?"

"Only if you want her company. I thought we had agreed five single men and five single women plus a few chaperons would suffice. I'm not complaining. It is the earl's party after all." Julia shrugged, inwardly hoping to relieve the tension in her neck and shoulders.

"You will enjoy it, my dear. And you are probably right; Mildred would have made a production, and we want a simple pleasant Christmas party." With those words Aunt Shredda waltzed around the room.

Julia couldn't help but chuckle at her aunt's obvious gaiety. "That does sound like an easier task."

Aunt Shredda patted her lips with her lacy handkerchief and plopped on the sofa. "I'll give you the guest list. We can write the invitations and have James send them."

Once seated comfortably at the desk, Julia drew out paper, pen and ink. "Will James be back soon?"

"I expect him any day." Dismissing the earl with a wave of her aged hand, Aunt Shredda moved on to what was at the front of her mind, the house party. "Let me see, there is Winston Trembelle...he will be a duke...tall, dark and handsome as a dream prince. He has two lovely sisters that look alike, Jane and Margaret. They are not out yet. You've seen them at church, not that they attend that often. Winnie spends a lot of time in London and his father doesn't see that his daughters attend church regularly."

Julia inked in their names.

Aunt Shredda flipped her handkerchief as though it were a fan. "There is Glen Sharn, James' best friend. Boney's men got him in the leg."

"Will he need assistance because of his injury?"

"I think he uses a cane."

"Poor man."

"He's not poor...not rich either. Might not suit you but...then of course he is second in line for the Duke of Nareyton. That would change his fortune."

"Much like the French changed his walk. Oh, Aunt Shredda, are we only interested in those who have a chance at being a duke?"

"Of course not, my dear." Aunt Shredda rushed on with no further explanation "Glen is too quiet. Never understood why he holds the respect of the others, but he is always pleasant. Won't help you but will be a congenial guest."

"Who else?"

"Clarice's boy has inherited his title. He's the Earl of Howerd. Marrying him would make you a countess same as marrying James. Gabriel is a patient man. And his sister, Virginia, a beautiful girl...hasn't taken on the marriage mart though."

Julia's eyebrows rose. "I thought all the beauties succeeded."

"You have much to learn, my dear." With a look of shock on her face, Aunt Shredda put her hand to her chest. "Tsk, tsk. Beauty is only part of it. Virginia is well dowered, too. The chit is hard to please."

"It is pleasant to know some women are given a choice. My guardian is all powerful and has decided with his help I will fall in love with anyone he chooses." Resentment filled Julia at the thought of James running her life as she added Howerd to the list.

"He only wants you to fall in love. It seems to me that falling in love with James would be easy. He is handsome, intelligent and ever so sweet."

But there were times he was uncivil to Julia, she thought.

"We must ask Keven, Marquess of Wattor, as well." Aunt Shredda smiled. "Now there is a handsome man, has chestnut hair, maybe not as spectacular as Winnie, but the ladies follow him around. He has a way of making all women feel more beautiful than they are. He would not be easy to trap, though I doubt anyone knows what he is thinking."

"His name is on the list. That gives us four men and three women, Aunt Shredda."

"We will ask the Vicar's daughter. She would have been invited if her brother were alive."

"Becca. That would be nice. I like her, and it would be nice to invite one guest I already know. Besides, Becca will be thrilled to meet London men for she will never have a season. She could come for the outings and need not stay overnight."

"I insist she spend the whole party here. I can quickly order her a ball gown. It will be her Christmas gift. She will look beautiful. We have plenty of bedrooms. Besides she has known all our guests since she was a child. Not to mention she has done so much for so many, that she deserves a Christmas to remember."

"Becca will be delighted. You're really thoughtful, Aunt Shredda." Julia looked over the list. "If you include James and me that would make ten. Do we need more?"

"Perfect. That gives me room to have Clarice. I might just ask Patrick and Harry Trembelles to the outings. We will check with James if he wants to add another man. Surely he believes his friends will be worthy of you.""

"I promised James that we would not mention my engagement until after the ball."

Aunt Shredda put her hand over her heart. "I thought I might hint. How will you keep the other women from him? He is so eligible and so handsome."

"I have a secret weapon...he promised to marry me Christmas week if I haven't fallen in love with someone by then. I promise you I will marry James!"

Aunt Shredda chuckled. "My lips are sealed."

"Don't let me down, Aunt Shredda."

While waving her handkerchief in the air, the old lady raised an eyebrow. "Never. Let's get the invitations written. I'll discourage James from adding others."

"I'll not hear of any such idea. James is the earl. He can invite whomever he wishes. I can handle it. I've heard there is safety in numbers."

"That has to do with mathematics and the larger the number of pounds." Aunt Shredda threw up her hands. "All I want is your happiness. James will he happy when you marry him."

Not James, Julia thought. Robert will be happy.

Stewart had made James a rich man. The money from his mother's father, set aside for himself and his brother had grown. Money meant to be shared equally when either grandson married or became Earl. In case one deceased the other received all monies. With a thirty thousand pound a year income James had no worries.

An account was set up for Julia per his orders. The earl insisted her books were not to be sold even though Stewart would agree only if he could tell her. It was decided that Stewart would wait until after Christmas. By then Julia would have chosen someone to marry without knowledge of her own worth. The notion of being independent might vanish from her mind. Or so, he hoped.

The shops in London afforded a plethora of ideas for gift giving. It was so good to be home from Spain. Every toy soldier he could find he bought, and he commissioned an artist to create the ones he could not find. There were ivory handled fans, parasols and bonnets for Julia and Aunt Shredda. Books by the dozen for Robert.

A strand of pearls caught James' eye. Every young girl needed pearls. While in the jewelry shop he noticed the sapphires. Blue as Julia's eyes. He couldn't resist the necklace and earrings. Julia was more beautiful than any female he had ever met, and he wanted her to have jewelry. He regretted she tended to be a headstrong bluestocking. She needed a man that could handle her. An older man preferably someone about his age, but the man must love her. Just thinking of the chit made his heart beat faster.

He visited White's club and Gentleman Jackson's boxing saloon. While James sparred with a fellow pugilist, two of his friends wandered in.

"Winnie! Gabby!" Two friends he felt worthy of Julia. Winston, or Winnie, as he was known, was the taller of the two, and a very proper gentleman. On the other hand, Gabriel, or Gabby, was dependable and had an easy manner about him. Julia would like him all right.

The men hurried over and James stepped out of the ring. Winnie smiled and reached for James' hand. "We heard you were back and titled. I forgot, sorry to hear about your father. He was a good man." On a lighter note, he said, "Who are you ordering around now that you can't push the army about?"

At one time he may have been offended by his friend's keen observation of his character. But the war had taught him differently. James laughed and changed the subject. "Going to have a Christmas ball just like my grandfather was used to. Your family will receive an invitation for the house party."

Winnie grinned. "Superb. It has been a long time since we have been together for Christmas."

"Robert and Julia, my wards, need a real Christmas. Robert is six and Julia is seventeen. The girl turned out more beautiful than I remembered. Last Christmas had to be unpleasant with Papa dead and only Aunt Shredda to make merry."

"Need to give the chit practice so you can introduce her to the ton?" Gabby grimaced.

"The chit's still feisty. I doubt the patroness's of Almacks would give her the nod of approval for her to waltz any time soon." He did not encourage his two friends to dangle after Julia. Better they meet her without marriage on their mind. The little minx may not charm them if they are inclined to keep away from her.

Finally James left his friends to finish his business in London. Late the next morning he rushed back to Hawkthorn. He arrived home after dark, but Ellis had the cook arrange a dinner to be served in the little dining room.

When he sat down to eat, Julia and Aunt Shredda sauntered into the small room. Ellis must have alerted them of his return.

Aunt Shredda chose the chair across from him and said, "I hope you don't mind our company. Julia and I have worked hard on your Christmas party and need to consult you on a few items."

Julia's fetching Lilac dress of gingham caught his attention as she hesitantly sat next to Aunt Shredda. He pulled his gaze away to study his travel worn breeches and laughed.

"I'm still in my riding clothes, but I'll listen to you. You both look well." Once more James peered across at Julia. "Has Martin moved into the larger cottage, Julia?"

"I think he plans to paint it first, but he wants to talk to you about two of the tenants' children getting married and needing a place."

James smiled. "Ah, Martin is already seeing to a new tenant, very good. I'll talk to him in the morning. What is it you wish to speak to me about, Aunt Shredda?"

"Read my list." She shoved the paper into his hand.

"The vicar's daughter?" he remembered her in much the same image as Julia, as a young child.

"Of course, the vicar's daughter. She is a pretty girl with an appealing turned-up nose. I'll see that she is dressed properly. It would be good for Rebecca. Besides we must have an equal number of young ladies to balance the number of gentlemen, which is five. Does this number meet with your approval?" One firmly arched eyebrow was enough to inform him that Aunt Shredda's mind was already made up.

James nodded thoughtfully. "Umm. Becca is fine."

"She knows everyone." Aunt Shredda smiled. "It would be nice if she found a husband. The poor dear will never have a season."

James returned to perusing the list. Need he warn Aunt Shredda again that the party is to find a husband for Julia? "Winnie and Gabby have accepted the invitation. They were glad to be asked. You do remember them?"

"Of course, James! They were the cream of the crop. Of the six mischievous Eton boys, there are only five now with Becca's brother snuffed out by the French." Without showing a twinge of emotion Aunt Shredda turned to Julia. "My dear, you will love the boys. My friend Clarice will be delighted with you too. She's coming with her son. Perhaps -- "

"How about gentlemen for you and Clarice?" interrupted James.

"No need. I will ask Duke of Trembelle and his brother."

"Winnie's father and uncle?" He shrugged. "Don't spare the expense on the ball, Aunt Shredda, I've plenty of the ready. Grandfather left me well-off."

"The Old Earl?" Julia blurted turning beet red as James regarded her closely. His father wasn't that old.

"My mother's father." He clarified. "A cousin inherited the title but my grandfather's other holdings were invested for my brother and myself."

"The dear man loved your father," Aunt Shredda added, "but felt, rightfully so, that his brilliance did not make him astute with his money. Your mother refused money from her father and managed well enough."

"I wished I'd known my grandfather better," James said.

"Your mother's family died young." Aunt Shredda sipped her tea.

James looked at Julia. "I can afford a season for you, Julia. You can be dressed in the finest gowns."

"I have all the dresses I need, thank you."

Aunt Shredda chimed in changing the subject. "The house party plans, my dears. We are going to have a fabulous Christmas ball, like father used to have. Holidays are, after all, for families, and the ball is scheduled for the twenty-third, a nice time to announce an engagement."

James laughed. "Aunt Shredda, you've been a widow too long. Have you forgotten how to catch a man? A woman must be cautious. A man does not want to know he is being chased. He can then elude capture." He winked at his aunt. "We've invited the best and they do not realize our plans. Don't even hint about our scheme. Let the men think it's their own idea."

"Knowing or not knowing doesn't matter." Aunt Shredda grinned. "If the lure is beautiful, what fish can reject the bait?"

"Who taught you to fish, Aunt Shredda?" James didn't fail to catch his aunt's hidden meaning. In no manner would he allow her to pull him into her scheme for marrying him to Julia, for he could see that was what she was trying to do.

"My father, your grandfather, the man who is referred to as the Old Earl." She had the audacity to giggle.

Julia laughed, joining the conversation. "I heard the Old Earl boasted about being the best fisherman. Even the stable boys know about lures from him. James, you should have learned to fish from them. They know exactly where fish bite, and just what lure attracts them."

On this note, James heaved his weary body from the chair and started for the door. Over his shoulder he laughed. "Aunt Shredda, make sure your protégé learns how to be a lure. Such frankness would not attract the loneliest or homeliest fish of the human variety. Incidentally, I learned that from the Old Earl, too. In spring I'll take both of you on and catch more fish than the two of you."

Julia watched James stride out of the room.

The minute the door closed, Aunt Shredda shook her head. "James is being pompous. I'm far better at catching fish than he is."

"I believe you," Julia stood with her aunt and strolled with her out of the dinning room.

After entering the yellow parlor, Aunt Shredda said, "I do think James had a bit of good advice. You need to reel him in before he knows you have gone fishing."

"I am beginning to have doubts about James. He can be headstrong you know." Inside, Julia hoped he would come about. For Aunt Shredda she said, "I'll do the pretty and make every man in attendance think that I am au courant. I'll not give them a chance to think of me as second best."

The yellow roses she had cut in the hot house early that morning caught her eye. She padded over the Aubusson carpet toward them on the table along the far wall. One by one Julia rearranged them in the crystal vase.

"It's the only way." Aunt Shredda laughed and waltzed out of the room.

Julia stared out of the window in a brown study, the roses forgotten. The future was as bleak as the darkness outside. The one thing she wanted she held to be beyond her reach.

Suddenly, the squeak of the door hinge drew her gaze back into the room. The object of her affection walked into the room attired in the same single breasted brown cloth coat and beige breeches as he wore at table. Her heart hammered against her ribs. Surely he intended to find his aunt in the parlor, not Julia. She started to leave.

"Wait, Julia." He reached out his hand. "I wanted to have a word with you."

Tentatively she sat down on the edge of the nearest chair.

"I thought it best if I were to go over the list of gentlemen Aunt has chosen to attend the ball." He began to pace before her, his hands behind his back. "You will have a choice of four fine men. Winnie loves the country and hates London. Which is something you have in common with him. He needs a bride. Gabby has a sister who just hasn't taken in London, and he wants to get her married before he looks around -- but he could be caught. Glen is easy going, but his war wound has leaves him to believe he is not marriage material. The doctor told me he doesn't have to limp but can't admit it to himself. He needs a woman as tenacious as you to help him forget the past and see he has a future. He will probably never be titled, but he has a small income and could provide nicely for someone who is content in the country. But Keven would be the best prize. His wit is sharp and his words are brutally honest. Traits you surely admire. They are all fine men, and if you would flirt a bit you could snare one of them. They are a bit older and mature. They would all be faithful husbands. When you decide let me know, and I'll help you."

"Flirt a bit?" Marriage to her was so repulsive to him, he was offering to help her snare a husband; how absurd and hurtful. It was hard to school her thoughts when her heart was aching.

James frowned. "What is it?"

"You are worse than a match-making momma. I would never have believed it of you, all this conniving! And they are your friends too. How could you do such a thing to them?"

"I wanted to help you."

"I don't need your help," she returned. "Besides, I thought you had asked for my hand. Or have you forgotten that already?"

"No, not exactly. I thought it might do you good to meet other men and perhaps find the love of your heart instead of settling for me."

It was stated so nonchalantly, she couldn't believe he was talking about her life as though it was an inanimate object to be moved from this house to another.

"You prefer I settle for one of them rather than you? For I do not believe in love at first sight. It is much more than that. It grows as you become more acquainted with one another over a period of time, and I don't mean hours or a few days." What she now saw in James' character wasn't very appealing to her. Perhaps he was doing her favor she might one day choose to thank him. Yet her heart ached and she couldn't wait to gain the privacy of her room for a long cry.

"Trust me, it will do you good to mingle with other men. You'll see." He came over and gave her a pat on the shoulder.

"Perhaps." She sighed and let him believe what he wished.

With a smile she was far from feeling, she stood and departed the room. It took all of her resolve to hold her emotions in check as she strolled down the hall. When at last she climbed the stairs she ran to her room, burst through her door she fell on her bed and cried.

After a while, she lay still with her knees held against her chest. A wisp of a cloud hovered close to her bed. She wasn't alone.

The Old Earl appeared, saying, "Flirt with all the men. It's the only way. Poor dear Robert will be disappointed if you can't keep James under your thumb. You must make him jealous. He is a...a rogue and worse, but loveable. Trust me."

Julia pushed herself to a sitting position. What was it with the Earl's of Hawkthorn that thy wanted her to trust them? Mayhap this spirit was actually James playing tricks on her. Yet, she knew that wasn't so.

"I'll try...I'll really try." She whispered and wiped at her tears.

CHAPTER 9

Next morning, Julia rose early. Quickly she dressed in her old riding clothes, bypassing the fancy velvets Aunt Shredda had chosen for her. It would be the last morning she dared to race across the fields without censure. As she padded toward the door she notice a letter propped against her mirror on the chest.

Breaking the seal, she recognized Aunt Shredda's neat writing. Her heartbeat quickened, she clutched the note to her bosom. Fearing the worst, her hands shook as she tore open the message.

My Dearest Julia,

Though James may be unaware that you run Hawkthorn, the servants are not. James must see this as part of your charm for our scheme to take shape. It will give him the liberty to leave the manor in your hands. Just as it did my brother, God bless his soul. He found no pride of heritage in a title, as James does, nor any interest in a well- run manor, as James. It is obvious to all how much you love Hawkthorn and Robert. Your pride is no less than James'. Hawkthorn and all it represents is your cherished dream. You have the ability to achieve your own goal.

I must remain what in reality I have been since I left here as a bride, I am merely a guest at Hawkthorn. It is necessary that James discover that you alone can handle his guests.

James started at Eton with these men. I want to remind you about them. Not that I want you to take this for gospel for much has happened in England to change a man. But everyone has an Achilles' heel, so in spite of my opinion you might find it a way to use every guest to your advantage.

Winston Trembelle and his sisters Margaret and Jane. He's too stuffy to help you with James.

My friend Clarice and her son, Gabriel, Earl of Howerd. Gabby is of medium height and medium looks, but he makes up for it all with laughter and a gentle wit. You might obtain his sympathy and persuade him to help you reel in James. Virginia, his sister, is either languishing for someone she loves or will never marry. Sad girl, very sad. I do not know the details, doubt if anyone really knows. She keeps to herself.

Keven, Marquess of Wattor. You might be able to talk him into helping you with James. He would create a bit of jealousy in James' heart. But then you and James are not allowing your hearts to be involved. Too bad. Perhaps that will come later.

Then there is Mr. Glen Sharn, -- he has a chance of becoming the Duke of Nareyton. His cousin leads a wild life and undoubtedly will never marry. Glen has a limp from that awful war with the French. He talks only of horses and hunting. I doubt him clever enough to help you in any way that would be noticeable, though he might entertain Robert.

All the guests have spent a few Christmases with each other in the past when the Old Earl gave the balls. These are James' friends. You must let them know you like them, and don't let them get away with leaving you out of any activity. You should be easily accepted by them.

Everyone knows you can climb trees and swim with the best of the stable boys. They have heard the stories and teased James about being the fiery Hawkthorn Dragon.

Don't worry about the ball. You know all of the neighbors who will attend. Ellis will handle it without any problem. I'll try not to be too much trouble. You can do it!

Your loving friend, Aunt Shredda

Though irritated at the unexpected responsibility thrust her way, Julia could not dismiss that Aunt Shredda had given her an idea. She would enlist the guests to help her show the Earl of Hawkthorn that she is an enchantress.

She enjoyed the freedom of Hawkthorn gave her, so unlike the restrictions of London, but tonight the house guests were expected for dinner, and they must never suspect her of being a hoyden. She glanced down at her breeches and knew it would do her cause harm if James or his guests caught her riding astride. But this morning, she still had a few hours to be herself. She dashed through the kitchen to grab a small breakfast roll and apple, then out to the stable where Frank had her horse saddled and waiting for her.

Mounting her black steed, she galloped off in the opposite direction from the one James took every morning. No need in clashing with him this early in the day. The brisk breeze blowing across her face obliterated all her worries.

Thirty minutes later, she pulled her horse up to the brook that rambled across the Hawkthorn's grounds and dismounted. Dipping her hands in cold water, she saw James' reflection in the stream. Her heart hammered in her chest. "La! The devil himself has caught me!" she thought, then took a deep breath and turned a smiling face to him. "What are you doing here?"

"Following you."

"But you never go this way," she hoped he couldn't read her true feelings on her face. Could he have had a change of heart?

"I have every right to ride in any direction on my property. Besides, Aunt Shredda wanted you to know that Glen Sharn will be arriving within the hour. She is in the process of using some sort of cucumber cream on her face and cannot be available to greet him upon his arrival."

Julia laughed. If there was anything she learned from life, it was that the dreams rarely came through the way you wanted them. Plan on the unexpected to happen at every turn. To cover her dashed dreams, she said, "She's determined I take charge for her. Now he is the one with an uncle that is a Duke...not long for this world. The duke's heir is Mr. Sharn's cousin...a man who will die from excesses and never marry."

"May be true but I doubt it." Chuckling, James added, "Glen cannot be cajoled into dancing with his limp. He doesn't like caroling or acting. He likes children, and Robert, with his quick mind, will of course hold his interest. He will not fall at your feet nor at any of the other single ladies present. I'm quite certain Aunt Shredda is only repeating gossip; she hasn't a clue to how Glen or his relatives live."

"Are all the male guests going to be difficult?" Like you, she imagined as she decided to play his courting game.

"You can have your pick of the male guests. Any one of them might fall for you if your lure is bright enough. Just choose which one, I will help you land him."

"How idiotic can you be? If I want one of your fancy friends, have no fear, I can lure him and hook him on my own." She thought it funny how he equated catching a spouse to catching fish. So like a man, she guessed.

James looked her up and down. "Regardless of what wiles you may think you have up your sleeve, I'll not tolerate your riding every morning in male clothing. The stable- keep will not saddle a horse for you if you show up in those clothes."

Anger at his high handed manner replaced her playful mood, she mounted her horse. Before she took off, she shot one last sarcastic remark over her shoulder, "Yes, my lord of lords."

James stood flexing his whip while Julia rode off as if the flame throwing Hawkthorn Dragon chased her. Does his feisty ward still believe him a dragon? She read entirely too many stories of the monster slaying his enemies to save the castle. Why had his grandmother written such nonsense?

He stood looking over his land, awed by all he saw. He glanced up at the tall oak, and recalled what wild schemes he concocted as a boy. He hoped Robert had just such a place to dream, hidden from the adults who controlled his life.

James sighed. He realized that he no longer could hide from authority for now he possessed that power. Maybe not completely, for he had no control of Aunt Shredda. Whatever possessed the dowager to leave the responsibility for their guests to a child? Even if Aunt Shredda wanted to attract the Duke of Trembelle or his brother James, she could have handled the first days. Winnie's father and uncle were not joining them until later.

He shook his head trying to clear his mind of the extra duties forced on him. Now, he would have to keep his guests comfortable and Julia under control.

He swung his horse around and trotted back to the house. It would not do for Glen to arrive while James was out and about the grounds.

At the stable he noticed Glen's horse. "Frank, how long ago did Mr. Sharn arrive?"

"He helped Lady Julia dismount when she returned from her ride."

"Damn, the chit and her breeches!" His words of disgust had the stable boys racing away.

"If his eyes were open, my lord, he saw her." Frank's eyes twinkled, when he added, "He told her that he'd never seen a lady look so beautiful riding a horse."

"Good God, that's not like Glen." Frank must be losing his sense of what is acceptable for single young ladies of fashion.

Striding to the house, he slammed through the back door. With clinched fists, he advanced into the drawing room, no Julia. Next he perused the library without finding her. "Ellis," he yelled.

"Yes, my lord."

"Have you seen Lady Julia?"

"I believe she is in the kitchen, my lord."

James dashed for the lower floor. The sharp staccato of his heels echoed from the tiled hall. Bursting into the kitchen he found Glen and Julia sitting at the servants' table sipping tea and nibbling tarts.

"What are you doing here?" James shouted.

"Eating delicious hot raspberry tarts," Glen said in a matter of fact voice.

"You can eat tarts in the drawing room." Sarcasm filled James' voice.

"Not when your hostess is wearing forbidden breeches. She can safely eat here, sneak up the backstairs and never be caught by her guardian. If I were you, old man, I'd shut my mouth before I swallowed a fly." He chuckled, adding, "You might join us. The tea is hot and the tarts are warm. We can pretend you're naught but a stable boy."

James curbed in his emotion then fell into an old wooden chair next to the table. "Oh, Julia, you will be the death of me. Glen is different. You managed to get away with unacceptable behavior this time." He sighed. "Pass me a tart."

Julia did as he bid her to do and poured him a cup of tea. "I won't let it happen again, I promise. You're right! Mr. Sharn is wonderful, not at all puffed up. You might learn something from him. Please excuse me, Mr. Sharn, I must dress before the other guests arrive. My guardian is dreadfully stuffy." She peered at James with a half smile on her pretty face. The chit was trying his patience.

"Call me Glen."

"Thank you, Glen." With hardly a backward glance, she dashed out of the room. James would have sworn she swiped at tears.

"Don't ask me to help you marry her off." Glen pulled back from the table to rest his left foot on his right knee. "If you don't want her, I might be persuaded to consider the state of matrimony myself. Her blonde curls all blown around her face would fan out nicely on a pillow and all that energy in a bedroom. Why are you trying to get rid of her?"

"She's too young." James didn't like the direction of his friend's thoughts concerning Julia. Perhaps Glen was not the right man for her after all.

"It is you who are too old. You are an old dragon!"

"Nonsense." James straightened, changing the subject quickly more so to whip the amicable expression off his friend's face. Surely Glen was envisioning Julia doing who knows what in bed. "Did Mrs. Dalton show you your room?"

"In a way, your housekeeper told me where to find it when she passed through the kitchen. And that Ellis would show me. Didn't I usually stay in a room down from your room?"

"Yes, you did. But Julia has my old room."

Glen chuckled. "Is that what you've got against Lady Julia?"

"I don't have anything against her!" With effort he calmed his voice. "If you don't need me, I'd better get dressed before the others arrive. Seems Aunt Shredda has left the hostess duties to Julia. The girl's too young. I'll have to do it."

"You might be surprised," Glen whispered.

James shook his head, thinking how Julia had surprised him ever since he returned home. He took the stairs two at a time, for she surely needed his support with the others, yet in breeches, she charmed Glen. How could she have taken Glen to the kitchen and twisted him around her little finger? Glen must have thought of her as a child. That wasn't true by the way Glen described her as a woman.

As James passed Julia's room he swung around and tapped at her door.

"Yes."

"It's me, Julia. Are you dressed? I will only take a minute of your time."

The door opened slowly as Julia peaked through the narrow opening. "You cannot come in, James."

"I just wanted to remind you that we need to host the party together. We can talk every evening about the next day's events."

Julia's eyebrows raised. "Not here."

"Of course not! We will meet in the library after our guests go to bed."

"How late will that be?"

"We can keep country hours. I guess about midnight will be late enough."

"I do not think it will be necessary, but if it will keep the fire breather calm, I'll agree."

"Good. I will expect you at midnight in the library. Incidentally, Julia, I want to remind you, again, that the dragon lived only in my grandmother's imagination." He turned and stomped away.

When he heard her door slam, he knew with a feeling of satisfaction that she heard him. Devil a bit! The little minx thinks she can handle men. We will see about that.

The memory of their kiss flitted through his mind. When he kissed her she turned soft and alluring in his arms. Julia could not bewitch him with her maidenly ploys, probably taught to her by Aunt Shredda. The loveable, but shrewd old woman wanted to drive him into a feisty minx's arms. Well, no cunning army man would ever be caught in such an obvious trap. Certainly not Jameson Craigh, Earl of Hawkthorn!

CHAPTER 10

As she waited alone, Julia glanced self-consciously at her own cleavage, and fought the urge to slump. Aunt Shredda had insisted she wear this pale green muslin with the deep green velvet ribbon tied under her bosom, then Aunt Shredda begged off joining her until Clarice Howerd arrived. James had taken Glen to the billiard room. With no one left in the drawing room, she clasped her hands in her lap, and nervously waited to greet James' guests.

A chill ran through her. Should she call Ellis to put another log on the fire or could it be the fear that made her cold? Would they all ignore her and talk of nothing but London?

The knocker banged, the door opened, feet scuffled, the courteous voice of Ellis echoed in the hall as he gathered the guests outer garments. A chilly breeze from the opened door found its way into the drawing room and Julia shivered. Time stood still until Ellis appeared to announce the Trembelles.

Julia rose from her chair, walked to the door pretending bravery she did not feel, and discreetly signaled the butler to notify James of the arrival of the tall gentlemen and his two sisters. One glance at the tall well-dressed women, who had not yet had a season and she felt small and insignificant. Their dark hair, creamy skin, and perfect posture gave them an aura of sophistication. Though fearful of being awkward, she drew on all the rules of proper behavior she had been taught. "I'm Julia Calatin, Earl Hawkthorn's ward. Welcome to Hawkthorn, Lord Trembelle." After a slight bow, she turned to the woman in the pale blue gown. "I cannot tell you apart. Who is Lady Jane?"

"I'm Jane."

"Your eyes match your gown."

"Winnie likes me to wear blue. Margaret has green eyes."

Dear Aunt Shredda didn't know they had different colored eyes. What else did she miss about the Trembelles? "Please have a seat." Julia said, "Lady Margaret, you do have beautiful green eyes. You could pass for twins."

"I'm the oldest," Margaret said as she leaned forward. "I'm pleased to meet you, Lady Julia. We have been looking forward to the house party. It has been a long time, but I remember the delightful times we spent at Hawkthorn. Is Lady Loretta well?"

"She's in excellent health. She decided to be a guest and spend all her time with her old friend Clarice Howerd. I've never been a hostess before and if I slip up, please tell me."

Margaret smiled and seemed to relax. "It is not too demanding. I've been the hostess at Trembelle since my fourteenth birthday. Not too many days after our mother died."

"It must have been difficult at first. My mother and stepfather did not entertain often. I have much to learn."

"All you need do is smile, Lady Julia. Your guests will ask no more," Winston Trembelle added.

"Thank you, Lord Trembelle."

The door opened and James walked in with Glen.

"Winnie!" James shook his hand. "Understand you are taking the girls for a season. Mag, you look older. And Jane what have they done to you? When did you catch up with Mag?"

"I'm seventeen, James -- not a child." She whirled around.

"You were a little butter ball."

Jane gasped.

"You stretched out nicely," James said in a teasing manner.

"You're quite beautiful, Jane. I believe James considered me little less than skin and bones last time he saw me," Julia added.

Jane laughed. "I was just surprised James ever noticed me. He and Winnie never permitted Margaret or me to join them on their adventures." She quickly covered her mouth, and then, with a sigh, said, "Our fathers were school friends. We used to visit back and forth before our mother died."

Julia smiled. "That must have been nice for both families."

"They were happy times." A bit of sadness could be detected in Jane's eyes.

Ellis entered. The Marquess of Wattor.

James turned and shook hands with the man. "Keven, do you recognize Winnie's sisters?"

Keven shook his head. "Winnie, Winnie. What did you feed the girls?"

Keven made a leg. Margaret and Jane made their bows.

"And your hostess, my ward, Lady Julia," James turned toward Julia.

Julia curtsied. "Pleased to meet you."

So this is the man Aunt Shredda claimed would make James jealous. Keven smiled, but scarcely glanced her way. Tall and muscular, but not as handsome as Winnie. His chestnut hair and hazel eyes were spectacular. Shredda claimed he had a way of making women feel more beautiful, but he was far too clever to be trapped into matrimony.

Julia turned back to Margaret and Jane. "I've been remiss. Please let me have Mrs. Dalten show you to your rooms."

Outside the drawing room Mrs. Dalten waited to escort the ladies to their rooms and Ellis patiently awaited the gentlemen. As soon as they left, James asked, "Julia, what do you think of Winnie?"

"Friendly. His sisters are attractive."

Glen chuckled. "In London he is considered a catch, Julia."

"Because he is heir to a dukedom?" Julia raised her eyebrows.

James winked at Glen. "That helps. It is believed that he is handsome and has a full purse, and most important he loves the country."

Julia shrugged. "I assume, with assets so highly valued, love is not considered important."

"I want you to marry a man you love...t'would not be against him to have a title, money and princely looks," James raised his eyes to the ceiling as if he believed she had lost her senses.

"He did like my smile. I liked his, too!" What she liked even more, at that moment, was James' frown.

"That's a start, Julia," James soberly replied.

Ellis announced, "Earl of Howerd, Countess Howerd and Lady Virginia.

James took the countess's hand. "It's been a long time since last I saw you, my lady."

"I see you have matured nicely, Jameson."

"May I present my ward, Lady Julia."

Julia controlled herself...smiled and curtsied to the beautiful woman. "I'm glad to meet you, my lady. Aunt Shredda has been waiting for you."

"I'm eager to see her. Does she have her usual room?"

James grinned. "She would have no other room."

The countess smiled. "Mrs. Dalten spoke to me on my way in. She promised to bring tea to Lady Loretta's room." Looking over her shoulder at the young man and woman, she said, "Take your time, children."

The Earl of Howerd grinned. "You needn't be surprised that mother calls us children -- she doesn't want to admit her age."

Julia snickered. "It's much the way James thinks of me." Aunt Shredda is right. Gabby was neither short nor tall, neither handsome nor ugly, but he laughs a lot, and has a gentle way.

The Earl of Howerd took her hand. "We will get along fashionably, my dear. James has one year on me and constantly yearns to be younger."

"Gabby, don't fill her with any nonsense. She imagines enough on her own. Forgive me, may I present my unruly ward, Julia. And Gabby's sister, Lady Virginia."

Julia could hardly nod at the blonde. No one could doubt Virginia is a beauty in the eyes of the ton.

Lady Virginia chuckled. "Men are always silly. Come, Lady Julia, show me my room. I believe we shall become fast friends."

Flattered, Julia took Lady Virginia's arm and led her to the next floor. "Your room is near mine. Do you live in London most of the year, Lady Virginia?"

"Yes. Let's start out sounding like friends. Please call me Ginny."

"You may call me Julia."

Mrs. Dalten met them on the stairs. "Lady Julia, would you like to have tea in your room?"

"Send it to Lady Virginia's room. I'll join her for tea."

"Yes, milady." Mrs. Dalten bowed and returned downstairs.

After a bit of idle chatter while Lady Virginia's maid had completed hanging her dresses, Julia and Ginny settled on the fireside chairs in front of the fireplace with a cup of tea.

"I feel I already know you. I met your mother once and you are even more beautiful. I turned fourteen when I met her and couldn't wait to have a season. Even though a widow, she appeared to be the belle of the ball. I watched from upstairs, hidden behind the potted lemon trees."

Talking of her mother brought a smile to Julia's face. "I used to watch from behind lemon trees, too. Mother liked balls, but I believe she liked translating better."

"I hear James is taking you for a season next year. Ask me anything. I've been through three. Unsuccessfully, according to my mother and brother. Gabby doesn't want to look for a wife until I'm married. But if he fell in love...and that is what I want for him...he'd marry."

"Fustian!" I sounded like James. Speaking softer, she added, "You must have had offers. You are beautiful and James called you a nonpareil."

"I've had offers," Ginny admitted wistfully.

"You didn't like any of the men."

"There is only one man I want," Ginny reluctantly admitted.

"Goodness! Why hasn't he asked you?" Aunt Shredda...guessed right about Virginia.

"He is my brother's friend and doesn't even notice me."

"James?"

"Not James. Do you love James?"

After a long breath, Julia shook her head. "Not a bit."

"What a shame -- you look so good together."

"I am...I...don't dislike him." Julia realized she did not know how she felt.

Ginny nodded. "I understand."

"Would you like to rest before dinner?"

"I expect it would be a good idea. Country hours...Around four?"

"Right. Country hours," she answered remembering James' words.

Julia sighed, relieved that all but Becca had arrived and were safely tucked into their rooms to rest. On the way to her room, Julia wondered if Aunt Shredda knew who Ginny loved. There were three of her brother's friends besides James here at Hawkthorn. Julia intended to discover which one Ginny favored, and help her capture the mysterious man's heart.

The vicar's daughter, Rebecca Olivar arrived at three o'clock. Ellis let her run up to Julia's room and knock on her door as usual.

Julia opened her door the minute she heard the knock. "Becca, I wished you could have come earlier. I did appreciate that you sent a note not to wait for you. You have an hour before everyone will meet in the drawing room."

Becca shrugged. "Baskets had to be filled for papa to take to the sick. The women of the altar society were slow today. Filled with the Christmas spirit and gossip. Telling about the gifts they made for their families."

"I should have asked Mrs. Dalten to send someone to take your place. Why didn't you ask?"

"How could I, when the Hawkthorns have done so much for me. Milly came over to measure me for a gown that I never expected. Well, I still cannot believe I own such a gorgeous gown! Lady Loretta is very generous and she told me all about my room. I never even dreamed I might be invited to a house party at Hawkthorn. I used to run wild over here with my brother and James. I chased after them and their friends, loving every minute." Then Becca sighed. "I am too excited to make sense. I have never been to a ball before. I do remember Mama talking of dancing at the Hawkthorn manor."

Julia laughed. "I've never heard you so excited. This is first Christmas ball in years. My uncle didn't entertain -- he read books."

"Papa likes books better than anything, too. Your stepfather and Papa were always good friends. James and my brother went to school together. I am rambling, Julia."

"I must admit, I'm enjoying your rambling. It's different than playing chess with you."

"You're a good opponent."

"I'm improving. Aunt Shredda has planned dancing, a picnic, a play and of course all the activities. Just like the Old Earl used to. I wish I'd known the Old Earl."

"Me, too," Becca whispered. "Mama used to talk about the Old Earl and all the high society lords and ladies that visited Hawkthorn before she married Papa. I have only a vague memory of the Old Earl's funeral. Mama met Papa at Hawkthorn. It would be really romantic to meet at Christmas. Waltzing together. Saying yes to a proposal under the mistletoe."

"Oh, Becca, I doubt any of James' friends are the marrying kind of men that a woman really wants."

"Once I fell in love with one of my brother's friends. It made my brother and James laugh and call me a silly dreamer. They insisted I was too young to fall in love," Becca confessed.

"That's the last thing I want to do," Julia declared. "Becca, don't believe those romantic books of Aunt Shredda's. I don't think men fall in love."

"Oh, Papa loved Mama. You must not give up hope."

"Come on Becca, let me take you to your room."

With a nod, Becca grabbed Julia's arm. "Julia, don't you remember how we used to pretend a prince would come to Hawkthorn and take us to his castle?"

"We should have read only Shakespeare. He is not nearly as unrealistic as those fairy tales."

"I was lucky when your stepfather insisted you sit in on Papa's classes with the boys. I think Papa let me sit in because he thought one female alone improper."

Julia sighed. "I wish I could have gone on to Eton."

James walked behind them soundlessly. "You would have been a sight in Eton."

Julia jumped and turned to face James. "You should wear a bell. Or at least whistle."

Rebecca curtsied. "Good afternoon, my lord."

James gasped. "Becca? When did you grow up?"

"While you were away," Rebecca answered.

Julia laughed. "What do you want?"

"Expect everyone down in the parlor by four. Your duty, Julia."

"Go on. I'll be down in thirty minutes."

James left and Julia turned to her guest. "Come on. We are keeping country hours. You might as well get ready to meet the men, and get your disappointment over with. They should all be in the drawing room very soon."

Julia opened the door to Becca's room and nodded to the waiting maid to go to the kitchen for tea.

Becca entered and saw all the dresses and a riding outfit. She stood with her mouth open.

"Aunt Shredda had a few dresses made for you. Milly is anxious to dress you. Aunt Shredda chose the colors and materials. It delighted her to do it. Please be happy with her choices."

Becca wiped the tears from her eyes. "I have stitched and patched this week only hoping I would pass. Father never thinks of clothes; there are always so many who need more than we do. How can I be so selfish? I guess Lady Loretta has an even bigger heart that anyone suspected."

The maid knocked on the door with a pot of tea and porcelain cups. Julia had her place the tray on the bed stand and dismissed her.

"Aunt Loretta will be pleased. Now drink a cup of tea. Milly will choose your dress for tonight. Be down by four -- I need your support to be a good hostess."

Becca nodded, tears glistening in her eyes while she gazed at her new clothing.

"Cold water helps reduce the damage of tears," with those words Julia closed the door.

Becca looked beautiful in the blue dress when she entered the drawing room and headed straight for Julia. "I thanked Lady Loretta for my clothes. Oh, how wonderful everything is. I won't forget a moment of this Christmas."

"You're sweet, Becca," Julia paused when she noticed Becca's startled look.

Glen had entered the room, immediately every guest crowded around him. It surprised Julia that introductions were unnecessary among the group. Everyone remembered Becca as a girl. They insisted on calling her the tagalong.

Aunt Shredda nudged Julia. "Time to announce the evening meal," she whispered.

With a nod, Julia motioned to Ellis, and he announced dinner.

James held out his arm to the dowager countess. The duke led Aunt Shredda to her seat. Julia paired the others haphazardly leaving Glen to be her escort. He smiled charmingly as she took his arm. What fun it would be to practice flirting with a man totally uninterested in romance.

Dinner went well, she listened to the men's exaggerated tales, and laughed at their jokes. But, too late, Julia recalled Aunt Shredda pointing out the importance of catching the male guests' attention. She'd failed. She had contributed nothing.

At last the men were left to their port, and Julia escorted the ladies to the drawing room. Conversation among the women amounted to mostly gossip from London. After Becca spoke to Aunt Shredda, thanking her again for the clothes, she took a chair that seemed to sit aside from the group. Julia watched without an idea of how to whip up enthusiasm. She'd failed as a hostess, totally conscious of Aunt Shredda's frowns.

Then suddenly Virginia stood. "Julia, do you play the pianoforte?"

She shook her head. "Becca does."

"Good. Lets sing carols. You will play, Becca, won't you?" Virginia's voice had a soft pleading sound.

Becca smiled and went over to the pianoforte, and perused through the music. "I know a lot of carols by heart."

Margaret smiled. "I think we should start singing carols at the top of our voices, otherwise my brother will never finish his port."

Julia laughed. Aunt Shredda clapped. They gathered around Becca, and after less than ten minutes, the male members of the house party joined them.

Servants hastened to put out the punch and the candies cook had made. Julia began serving the wild berry punch to the women first then to the men. They held their cups and sang to their hearts content. It seemed more like the Christmases written about in books than anything she or Robert had ever experienced. Is this what the Old Earl called celebrating the holiday?

When James came and put his arm around her, he whispered, "How very clever of you, Julia. You have brought the Christmas spirit to Hawkthorn."

She should have admitted that Virginia and Becca deserved the accolades, but his praise warmed her heart as much as his arm warmed her body. Certainly it was no sin to enjoy a bit of praise from a dragon. She must reward Virginia and Becca, her talented friends, for saving the evening from becoming insipid.

The bells of the French Gilt clock, perched on the library mantle, struck midnight. James slumped in the high-backed wing chair by the blazing fire. The three-quarters empty goblet of port rested in the palm of his left hand. He drummed a monotonous beat on the cloth arm of the chair. During dinner, Julia had forsaken her role of hostess and he could have wrung Aunt Shredda's neck. Why she didn't take over and help Julia to become a part of the party he couldn't understand. Or was it his fault? By some miracle she brought the party to life with Christmas carols. She brought Yuletide into the hearts of everyone at Hawkthorn. Just a few minutes ago, he heard imperturbable Ellis humming a carol in the kitchen.

The rattle of the doorknob sounded behind him. Julia slipped into the library, and sat in the chair across from him. Something about the way she looked down on him in his chair made him liken her to a queen.

In a majestic voice, Julia stated, "We must include Robert in more of our plans."

He could not stop himself from wanting to obey her command, believing in his heart she stood for the best. Yet, compelled to hide his feelings, he raised an eyebrow, and chuckled. "What do you have in mind?"

"Perhaps lunch." She leaned closer. Forfeiting her royal stature, she switched to a wide-eyed child about to reveal a secret. "Oh, James, Christmas is special to children. Robert has never really experienced this kind of joy. Everyone is so happy and singing."

"I will see he is included in everything suitable to his age." James could not help but smile at the brightness of Julia's smile, and the light of happiness that beamed from her eyes. He suddenly realized that neither of his wards had been exposed to the warmth of Christmas. It had dwindled when his mother died; only the balls continued until the Old Earl's death.

He watched her settle back in the chair.

"What are your plans for tomorrow, my lord?"

"Upon my honor! You're not my servant, Julia. Call me James. You certainly do not hesitate to call me James when you are angry."

Julia's eyes twinkled and her grin grew impish. "James, James, what are your plans for tomorrow?"

"We might show our visitors the town."

Her face fell, and she gasped. "Surely they have been here often in the past and seen town."

"The ladies were children then. They've grown up, and young ladies always like to visit shops and purchase a bonnet or some silly thing."

"The gentlemen will accompany us?"

"Never! You do not understand. The men like to do a bit of hunting or racing around the grounds like we did years ago."

"When you were boys?"

"We have been men for many years."

"And the ladies?"

"Virginia is the oldest and I believe she is twenty or one-and-twenty. The men are closer to thirty or more."

"The men have outgrown town."

"I say! Julia, take the women to town. The men want to talk. It has been five years since we have been together."

"Of course. I do not mind you having time together, but this is a house party. I believe we must entertain all our guests. Surely many of the ladies do more than shop."

James laughed. "We will ride with you occasionally. We will break our fast with you. We will dance with you." He watched her raise her eyebrows. "And do not think for one minute I do not know you have learned to dance. And I expect you to dance with every gentleman. You, Julia, are not only the hostess but must try your luck at luring men to your side."

She stiffened her back; the queen reappeared, her chin raised, and her lips sealed.

Trying not to laugh, James asked, "Have you found any particular man who appeals to you?"

Her eyes snapped and he saw her suck in a breath. "I need to see more of them than I have. Obviously I will have to wait for my opportunity to be with them."

"Tomorrow...today you will be in their company except for the morning. I suppose most of the ladies will be having breakfast in their rooms."

"I told them when we serve breakfast in the little dining room and suggested they ring the kitchen if they wish their breakfast in their room. I did not make them commit to a choice, but if I had known the old buddies of Eton needed to be alone in the morning I certainly would have."

"Do not worry, Julia. No one will be down in time to eat with us. I am sure an early riser such as you will not be up at dawn tomorrow. Late night and all that rot."

"You can never be sure of ladies, my...James."

"Perhaps an early breakfast might give you a look into the men's morning dispositions."

"Men do not show their true colors when they first meet a lady. They save that fiery temper for later. Of course, you are the exception, James. In twenty seconds, no one would doubt you can throw fire across the countryside."

"Why must I repeat myself? That monster lived only in the imagination of my grandmother! A silly creature created by a poisoned pen, and I never knew the Old Earl's countess. All I ever heard about the countess was her father, a diplomat, forced her to speak and read twelve languages fluently." He frowned. "It seems nearly impossible a man as determined and practical as the Old Earl could find happiness with a scholar."

"I think the Old Earl a romantic. He fell in love with a beautiful woman."

"You're bamming me! The Old Earl didn't have a romantic bone in his body when he caught me riding over his fields. Nor did he spare my backside."

"James, I am sure he is a romantic." She bit her lip as if to keep from saying more. Besides, all she knows of grandfather is from hearsay. "Perhaps after his wife died he was easily upset."

"By George! He stood for no nonsense from anybody. His wife loved reading and writing. She created fiction. And fiction is exactly that, fiction! A dragon is a mythical monster. There never was and there never will be one!"

Julia rose from her chair, smiled at him with eyes full of teasing. "If there were, I don't expect he'd admit it." Striding across the Aubusson rug she left him to his private thoughts.

"You little minx. I should have drowned you!" He spoke in the direction of the fire.

The library door opened to a slit. A sweet feminine voice said, "How right you are!" The door slammed shut.

James roared with laughter.

The door opened once more, Glen walked in. "What did you do to Julia?"

"What makes you think I did anything to her?"

"Saw her peeking in the library door and heard what she said."

"She agreed with me. I should have drowned her."

Glen frowned.

"Why are you not in bed?" James demanded.

"My leg does not like standing around too long so I have been exercising it a bit. Don't ask me to join you for a drink, for I am on my way upstairs to bed."

Still unable to stop smiling, James said, "Goodnight, Glen."

After James studied the jumping flames in the grate, he eased himself out of his chair. Shaking his head, he muttered to himself, "My dear Julia, I must go to bed early to meet you at dawn for another round of verbal sparing. And to think I planned to compliment you on Robert's fine manners. Instead you drive me crazy and my temper flares. But you must admit, at least to yourself, I am not a dragon. Never was! Never will be!"

CHAPTER 11

The next morning the gentlemen broke their fast at dawn. True to his word, James had them off riding soon after.

Later in the morning after all the ladies had breakfast either in their rooms or in the small dining room, Aunt Shredda ordered the Landau be brought around.

"Come, come, ladies. This may be a small town, but we have the finest milliner. She often sells bonnets to a well-known London modiste."

Virginia climbed into the carriage following Jane and Margaret. "I heard about these bonnets. I believe I could guess the modiste."

Becca added, "Our town openly relies on Lady Loretta to introduce all visitors to the unique shop."

Aunt Shredda with footman's help joined the laughing girls.

Julia, who had begged off, waved goodbye from the front porch. Becca winked conspiratorially at her. With a sigh of relief and preening with pride that she had avoided James this morning, she dashed up the stairs to the nursery to visit Robert.

Miss Harper declared, "Lady Julia, the Earl of Hawkthorn asked I have Robert ready early this morning. I believe he joined the hunt."

"Of course, I must have forgotten." Torn between irritation at not being informed by James and being pleased that Robert had been included in the group activities, Julia made her way to the library. At first she worried whether James could handle a six-year old, but with a heavy sigh she assured herself that Robert could handle himself. Though disappointed at missing time with Robert, she decided to prepare her strategy as a hostess. Her first priority was to find out whom Ginny loved and get them together.

The fire blazed in the quiet library and she sat in the high-backed chair James had used last night. In the quiet morning sunlight she evaluated the relationships that had begun long ago at other Hawkthorn house parties before she'd ever heard of the manor. She took out a sheet of paper and began to pen her observations. Whom did Ginny love?

1.Handsome Winnie talked to Becca about her father and the church, but only because she sat on his right. They appeared to be no more than casual friends with a smattering of past knowledge about the other.

2.Glen talked to Jane to be polite. He treated her much as he did Robert, a sweet child to be listened to and encouraged.

3.Gabby talked to no one but his host and Aunt Shredda. He ignored his sister. Could he be shy?

4.Keven talked to Ginny about the latest operas without showing a mote of interest. And Ginny treated all men with a bit of indifference. Keven did glance now and then at Winnie. But what did that signify? Was he interested in Jane?

5.James ignored everyone but Glen and the countess. The countess spent as much time talking to Aunt Shredda as she did to James. But Glen agreed with whoever talked to him. Glen obviously wished himself elsewhere. Was he bored or tired?

Completely baffled, she set her pen down.

A shaky voice quivered through her thoughts. "It will untangle if you put your mind to it." She looked up to see the familiar mist twirling into the room. Abruptly the Old Earl stood directly in front of her. She couldn't be dreaming.

"How would you go about sorting things out?" she murmured hardly loud enough to be heard, and feeling a bit silly talking to an apparition.

"You might start with Rebecca and Glen."

"Do you believe they suit? She is so industrious and he seems unflappable. He is so content with his life."

"She loved him as a young girl. Followed him around and he never tired of her attention. Taught her to ride and swim. Her brother had not one whit of patience, stiff- rumped."

Julia smiled at his colorful language. "I'll do my best with Glen and Becca. But I have had no hint they are interested in each other. Neither has mentioned the other's name in my presence nor have they attempted to sit together."

"I just gave you a hint. Don't you believe me?" The ghost looked indignant.

"It's worth a try, though I have little faith I can put forth your ideas." Before her words were out of her mouth he faded away. "Will I ever find who is right for Ginny? Oh, dear, I hope I'm not talking to myself." She shook her head. "Am I so distraught I've adopted Robert's ghost?"

Ellis appeared at the library door. "Lady Julia, did you call."

Gracious me! "I'd like a scone and a cup of tea," she blurted out. Did Ellis hear her talking to the Old Earl? Whatever will he think? Does he know about the Old Earl? She needed to be more prudent, and take care of the guests properly.

Her thoughts turned to James and what he said last night. Somehow she must deal with each of the men in a way that would force James to see she could capture a man's attention. For starters she would begin with Glen. Maybe he is the one for Becca and then maybe he is the one for Ginny. How can the Old Earl know? A translator takes one line at a time. Perhaps, it would be prudent to take one gentleman at a time.

After the success of last night's formal dinner, Julia felt unprepared for the muddle tonight. Aunt Shredda and the countess were late. James stood off from his guests as though he had forgotten them. Only Margaret and Jane seemed happy chatted like magpies, batted their eyelashes, flirted with their fans, and constantly asking about the ton. They were determined to know everything about Almack's.

Jane prattled on, "We all bought new bonnets and I'll want to show mine off when I get to London. Now, how many of you gentlemen can I depend upon to take me for a ride in Hyde Park, or a walk in Green Park?"

"Surely you can find someone younger than us to take you!" Gabby shockingly replied.

"Gabby, I presumed you would drive me through Hyde Park on several occasions."

"Why would you assume that?"

"Do you expect any man to knock down my door, if I appear unable to attract any titled gentleman to drive me through Hyde Park?"

"Jane, I fear you do not understand. They would more likely avoid you if they see me driving you through the park. I wager they would immediately suspect you were dangling after an old man with stuffed pockets. It would be better if Winnie took you."

With a sigh of disgust, Jane rolled her eyes. "Winnie is no fun. And being my brother he would scare everyone off. You are a much better choice."

Winnie looked at Jane. "That will be enough. You will not ask anyone to drive you. It will be me who drives you, or no one. And that is not because I would enjoy you nagging me, but it is the proper behavior."

James laughed. "Might as well calm down, Jane, and see what happens. Maybe Julia will be joining you for a season."

Margaret's eyes lit up. "That would be quite the thing. We must plan together before the holiday is over. Winnie never took us to London during the season. Now tradition forces him, but he still does not wish to."

Winnie, his lips pressed in a firm line, started to get up. "I will not for one minute -- "

"Men just act that way. Don't they Aunt Shredda?" Julia interrupted trying to calm Winnie's attitude.

"My dears, we will have a talk. There is so much to see and do during the season." Aunt Shredda fluttered her handkerchief. "We must make a list of every place we desire to visit. The season always has its surprises."

Margaret sat forward. "Lady Loretta, are you telling us that you will help us with the season? Not having a mother makes it seem quite frightening."

Aunt Shredda reached across Keven and patted Margaret's hand. "Don't worry, I'll be there. And the young men around this table will also be available, not to mention many of your mother's old friends. No one will let you flounder. These rascals may tease you, but they will defend your honor."

The last course had been removed and Julia quickly led the women to the drawing room, leaving the men to their port. Though Margaret and Jane did not settle down easily they were no longer worrying about their coming season when the men joined them for carols and cards.

Afterwards the party moved to the ballroom where Aunt Shredda played a few merry tunes on the pianoforte to give Margaret and Jane a feeling of dancing.

James organized it so that Margaret, Jane, Virginia, and Becca danced a round with each of the four men. When Aunt Shredda played a waltz, Julia led Glen on to the dance floor.

"There is no reason why you should not dance, too." She insisted.

"I can't waltz with my leg."

Julia smiled, took his hand. "Of course you can. Shall I lead or will you?"

Grinning he reluctantly took her in his arms. "Can't you ever take no for an answer?"

"You dance well."

"If you don't mind limping to music."

When he started to pull away she grabbed his arm. "You forgot yourself and you were waltzing. You don't want to admit it, do you?"

"Julia, you should have joined the army. You could coax a mule over the next hill. But this mule is quitting."

She shrugged. "We will try again tomorrow."

Ten minutes before midnight, James stirred the fire in the library, anxious for Julia to arrive for their scheduled midnight meeting. At a knock at the door he frowned. "Enter."

Ellis appeared from behind the door. "A lad from town wishes to see you, milord."

"Bring him to me."

The door opened once more. A young man stepped into the room, removed his hat and bowed. "Mi lor', Lady Loretta asked if we would play for you this week. My cousins and I are musicians from the neighboring village."

"Did she engage you for tomorrow night?"

"She asked us to see Lady Julia, but 'tis too late to call on her. We were just passin' by. Played for the Squire tonight. If' you require musicians, we can play."

Julia walked in, her head jerked up at the sight of the late night guest. "Nice to see you, Milton."

Bowing in her direction, he said, "Good evening, Milady. Lady Loretta asked me to call on you."

"Are you and your cousins free to play for our house party?"

"Anytime, Lady Julia."

"James would you object to having a bit of music after supper tonight?" When James frowned, she added, "It is past midnight, James."

James chuckled. "Delighted, my dear."

"That settles it, Milton. See you tonight about seven."

With a bow, Milton strutted out of the library.

"He's a fine boy, James, and I am glad you don't mind having them play. They entertain at the parties here in the country."

James indicated she sit in the high backed chair she occupied last night. He relaxed into his chair, took out his snuffbox, and took out a pinch of his favorite blend. "I believe his uncle and father before him played around the country before the lads did."

She shrugged her shoulders. "Sorry, James. I forgot the Earl of Hawkthorn grew up here. So you knew them before you left for the army?"

"I believe you are right."

"You do not have to be subtle."

"I considered myself obvious." Must she always be out of humor with him? He swore that she would find fault with a fat goose if he served her one himself.

She grinned. "And about yesterday morning, Robert told me about his great adventure with you."

"I let him shoot a bird."

"Robert didn't tell me that." A frown settled on her face. "Robert knows nothing about guns. He might have been hurt. I thought you only went riding."

"Robert is going to be taught to hunt and ride well. It is expected of him. You need not fuss about him. Remember I am his guardian and I want him to grow up to be the best man he can be. Incidentally, I have engaged a male tutor that is well versed in Greek. He will start after the first of the year."

Her mouth dropped open. Finally she muttered, "Does Robert know?"

"I wanted to tell you first."

"How did you find out I taught him?"

"Robert is proud of his translating and very proud of you. He may not like his new tutor as well as you, but he must get used to male teachers. I expect him to attend Eton and Oxford. He will be a scholar."

She looked at him and bit her lip.

Is not this what she wanted? "He is not a baby and soon you will have babies that will need you."

"Until a man takes them away and puts them in school."

He got up and squatted on his haunches next to her chair. Gazing straight into her blue eyes, brimming with unshed tears, he found it hard not to reach up and tough her face. The sooner she understood this was for Robert's good, the better off she would be in starting a life of her own.

"I am not sending Robert to school for years. He will be ready and happy to go. He is a fine young man with good manners. If he doesn't like the tutor I hired, we can find another. At least try to give Robert a chance to be with men. The boy loves you, and will never make you ashamed of him."

"I suppose you are right." She slowly rose from the chair as he stood. With her head held high, she departed the library.

Early the next morning Julia, dressed in her green riding habit, peered through a slit in her bedroom curtain. Glen Sharn was entering the stable. She hastened to the stables to join him for a quick ride. They had become good friends last evening when she coaxed him to waltz a few steps.

By the time she reached the stables, he was already astride his horse. "Wait for me," she shouted.

Glen turned his mount toward her. "I'm not good company today."

"Indeed! I will take your company -- good or bad. What are friends for?" Frank had her horse ready and gave her a hand-up.

"Race you to the brook." She endeavored to draw him out of the doldrums.

She took off in a gallop, but slowed to make sure Glen won.

Shaking his head in wonder, he dismounted and ambled over to help her down from her mount. "Afraid to let me lose?"

"Hoped it would put you in a better mood to tell me what's got your dander up," Julia wrinkled her nose and smiled.

"'Tis nothing you've done, Julia. Though you contributed by forcing me to execute the waltz. Rebecca's came up to me after our dance. Would you believe she wanted to take a turn with me on the dance floor."

"Capital."

"Wait till you hear her reason for dancing with me. It seems dancing is good exercise for someone with a bad limb. Did you realize that dancing could correct a limp? I must be repulsive to her if she finds it necessary to correct my deformity. I thought her to be a compassionate sort of female, being she is the vicar's daughter. Seems I am wrong. She thinks she can cure every bad-tempered or worthless being she runs into. I have news for her, this worthless being is past curing."

"I'm sure Becca means no harm." Julia was sure Becca was simply trying to help Glen feel better about himself.

He shrugged. "She means to make sure I exercise my leg by insisting on long walks and climbing steps several times a day. I cannot cajole her into leaving me be. She will not accept that I'm a cripple. There is no cure."

"How strange. I never thought of you as a cripple. And your limp has improved. Especially when you forget it. Why would Becca care whether you limp or not?"

"I don't know. That's what has me all out of shape, Lady Julia. When we used to visit James here and go to town everyone needed her attention if only for a moment. She was always taking care of someone or something, like a baby bird who fell out of a next or a rabbit who lost its way home."

Glen paid more attention to Becca than Julia realized. "Are you interested in Becca?" she blurted.

"Like any man could resist such a beauty." He confided in a low voice.

Julia had not suspected that Becca might be in love with Glen. It could easily be Becca's typical wish to take care of someone she felt in need of a little attention. "I have a plan."

"Oh, Julia, that frightens me. I heard those words just before you got caught fishing with the stable boys."

"You were here with James that awful day. La! I should never have called him a dragon, though he certainly deserved it."

Glen chuckled. "You sound like James. What is your plan?"

"I want you to pay an exceeding amount of attention to me tonight...escort me to dinner. I'll make sure we are seated next to each other, and we will flirt outrageously. I want to see if Becca is smitten with you."

"I'd be glad to oblige you, but it is in Rebecca's nature to care for the injured. That doesn't mean she can be smitten with one. I think you will be exceedingly disappointed in her reaction."

"Don't be a coward. Besides I want James to think everyone is smitten with me."

"You're wasting your time on James. I doubt he will ever marry."

"I'm going to marry him."

Glen threw back his head and roared with laughter. "You might be just the one for James. Tonight I will be devoted to you. Yes, indeed. You might very well be the one that can do it. Lady Julia, you will never find so gallant a suitor as I shall be."

"I am so happy, but there is one problem. Do you think you might tell me how to be an enchantress? Flirting with a fan doesn't seem to work for me." Julia hoped she hadn't gone too far in confiding with Glen.

"You just hang on my every word and keep those dancing blue eyes on me. That will work. And now you must promise if Rebecca shows not interest in me, not to let down once on the pretense. In that case, she must believe I don't need her. And furthermore we must convince James I am truly taken with you, as you are taken with me."

"You've have my word." She doubted Glen's idea of just looking and listening could ever succeed. But what else could she do?

Julia brought Robert down for tea. Glen entertained her and Robert, without looking at anyone else in the room. James could not distract Robert from Glen's funny stories about hunting.

The plan was a simple. Glen and Robert kept her laughing. But not until most of the guests had left the drawing room and gone off to play games, did she notice James' scowl.

Remembering Glen's words, she ignored James and followed Glen and Robert out of the room. Ellis handed them their wool coats. After bundling up against the brisk breeze, they went for a walk.

Upon their return, a laughing Robert followed Miss Harper up to the nursery. Glen offered his arm to Julia and led her into the billiards room.

When Winnie challenged Gabby, everyone gathered around the billiard table, but Glen remained standing next to Julia.

James with one hand fisted and the other gripping a leather-tipped cue so tight his knuckles were white approached Julia. Leaning close to her, he whispered, "Julia, what are you doing with Glen? You have forgotten your duties to the other guests."

James' set down left her speechless. Then she glanced up into Glen's twinkling eyes, he said teasingly, "I suggest you watch this match closely if you are to get any pointers on the game."

Listening to Glen's every word and watching him closely, she was aware of eyes staring through her from behind.

James in his most formally demanding voice asked, "Julia, Ellis informed me that Milton and his cousins will not be with us tonight but will be here tomorrow night. What are we doing tonight for entertainment?"

"Aunt Shredda likes to play cards. She plans to arrange two tables." Julia forced herself to giggle and hide her hurt feelings in front of James and the others. "Glen and I want to play chess."

"Glen is an expert at chess. He needs a more challenging partner. Becca will you be so kind as take Glen into the parlor for a game of chess?"

Julia's blood boiled at James' audacity to maneuver the situation his way.

Becca without a moment's hesitation hurried over, and led Glen out of the room.

Julia watched a rosy tint fill Becca's cheeks. At least it appeared certain Becca loved Glen, and Glen loved Becca. It would be wonderful if they admit it to each other.

The billiard game was over, and the other guests followed Aunt Shredda and her friend Clarice to the card room for a game of whist.

Julia was left standing next to James, who didn't make a move to leave the room. She was moved to say, "Seems we are left out."

With a scowl on his face, he reached for her wrist. "Come on. I need to talk to you." He practically dragged her down the hall to the library.

CHAPTER 12

"Frank told me that you rode with Glen this morning." James tried to calm his voice. "It won't suit. I want you to quit batting your eyes at him."

"He is a gentleman and very entertaining." It rattled his nerves that she wouldn't look at him. Instead she found the leather bound volumes on the shelves of more interest. "Unless there is something you haven't told me about him."

"He has no title and not enough money to keep you in the finest clothes."

"I don't need all these fancy dresses that the London women wear. And Glen has a country home."

"He won't do!" His hand fisted, and his voice sounded angry even to his own ears. "Julia," it calmed him, when she tried to imitate him by raising an eyebrow. "I'll not let him marry you."

"He hasn't asked me." Julia wore a smug expression.

He had the urge to take her in her arms and kiss that look off her face. Instead he said, "You will leave Glen alone, Julia. I insist."

"I think Becca might be in love with Glen. Would you object to that?"

"What?" She caught him off guard. Coming to his senses, he answered, "Of course not. Glen is a gentleman and my best friend. I want him to be happy." What was wrong with Julia? She flirts with a man and then wants to marry him to her friend? He would never understand the child. Woman, he quickly amended.

"I do like him." She batted her lashes at him and added, "But I promise not to fall in love with him."

He smiled at the little minx. "Come on, I'll play chess with you. Do you know where the chess set is kept in here?"

"Your father played with me once or twice." She walked over to the shallow closet near the door."

James laughed reaching over her head to lift out the set. "I forgot how much you liked to organize the library."

"That's where your father kept it."

"Indeed. But the Old Earl kept it on a table in this library and that's where I'll keep it. Robert needs to learn chess."

"He knows the basics. His skill needs developing."

"I'll see to that. Did you know Glen is a master like Becca? Have you ever played with her?"

Julia's smile had that mischievous look that played havoc with his heart. "A few times."

"Then you know. She used to beat all of us when barely nine years old. Her brother, a real master, insisted on her playing chess with him when she could barely walk."

"That makes me the only outsider?"

His heart lurched. He couldn't bear for her to be left out. "Has anyone made you feel uncomfortable, Julia?"

"No."

With a sigh of relief, he said, "They accept you as one of us. I'm sure they think of you as my little sister."

"What a shame that I'm not even related."

"Don't remind me. Come on, play chess with me."

"Of course."

James carefully set up the small square table with two chairs set opposite each other. "I've always been the black."

"That fits."

"I'm not as bad as you think."

"I heard there were opera singers and who know what else."

"Ladies aren't supposed to know about that sort of thing. But if it was Aunt Shredda that told you, then understand that she exaggerates." He quickly changed the subject. "Do you want to go first?"

She picked up a queen and examined it. "She is beautifully carved."

"The Old Earl received this set as a Christmas present. I believe it had belonged to a master player. He loved this set and I often wondered if he spent hours rearranging the pieces as I did with my lead soldiers. You are playing with his choice color."

As the game proceeded he realized she played very well. In fact, he enjoyed her competitive spirit. Perhaps she would make a good wife for him.

The game ended too soon. "You gave me a good game, Julia. Whoever taught you?"

"My uncle. He liked the game almost as much as translating Greek poetry into English."

James chuckled. "You had little to influence you but scholars. No wonder you handled my father and brother so well."

"Did you not have the same influences?"

"Yes, but my grandfather thought it necessary to be proficient at sitting a horse, handling a sword, and shooting a pistol. I learned about the estate from him. But he had little success with my older brother, who walked around with a book in his hands, not hearing or seeing anything that might distract him."

"I had the vicar's sons, who climbed and raced. A neighbor's sons taught me to ride a horse. Later I acquired a swimming instructor."

He suddenly remembered the time he almost drowned her. "Have you forgiven me?"

"Long ago. I practiced until I could navigate in water as well as I could run on solid ground. I've taught a few children to also enjoy the pleasure."

"Stable boys?"

"They seem to learn automatically. Only girls seem to need teaching."

"Perhaps we might keep some of your talents hidden while you are looking for an eligible match. We have other marriageable men at our house party."

"Oh, James, you are even worse than Aunt Shredda. She tries in every manner to hide my bluestocking tendencies."

James chuckled. "We had better tend to our guests and discuss this later. Promise to leave Glen to Becca?"

"I promise."

While James talked to the guests in the parlor, Julia slipped out and penned two notes. One to be taken to Becca's room and one for the stable. Julia sought out Ellis.

"Please see that these notes are delivered. Miss Rebecca's should go to her room so she finds it before going to bed. The other must be read before the first horses are saddled."

With a smug smile, Ellis bowed. "I will personally take care of them, Lady Julia." In a whisper, he added, "I'll not report your matchmaking to Lady Loretta."

Her heart leaped. The servants might tell the earl. "Becca and Glen need but a small nudge to make them reveal their love. James must not interfere, he doesn't understand romance. Please, don't tell him."

Ellis looked so proper. "That goes without saying, milady."

"How did you know about my matchmaking?"

"Neither you nor Mr. Sharn are flirts. Besides we all know Miss Rebecca has always had her heart set on Mr. Sharn. And you can't help meddling."

Mayhap the servants have a clue to Ginny's secret love. With a shrug Julia made her way to the card room to play hostess. She stepped into the room and smiled at the couple seated across the room. Obviously, Glen and Becca didn't have a thought for anyone else. Their eyes were intent on each other. Julia wished James would look at her in such a way.

Midnight arrived just as Julia slipped into the library. James' heart quickened. At least the minx is not late tonight.

Sitting in her designated chair, Julia spoke excitedly, "We will have more waltzing tomorrow...I mean tonight. Becca is determined that Glen will waltz. I think she will have him dancing all night."

"Do you want to make a wager on that?'

"I own nothing you would want. How can I bet?"

He was feeling bold. "A lock of your hair for me and a bonnet for you."

"Why would you want a lock of hair?"

"To make a fishing lure." He lied.

Julia laughed. "You might need two locks and I feel generous especially since I'll win."

"I hope you do." He lied again. He really wanted a lock of her hair.

Julia's broad smile made him feel a certain stir. Devil a bit! It must be that he had been too long without a woman.

The next morning Julia again sent word to the stables she wouldn't be riding as early as usual, but to be sure to have a horse ready for the vicar's daughter, who in all likelihood will join Mr. Sharn. Then she asked her abigail to discreetly check if Becca left for the stables.

Once her abigail returned to confirm Becca departed dressed in a riding habit, Julia made plans to tackle her next problem.

She needed to know Winnie better. She lingered over breakfast. Soon her quarry joined her. He was handsomely attired in a double-breasted blue wool Spencer jacket, yellow waistcoat and beige breeches, down to his black boots. He dressed like the perfect London gentleman taking a gallop through Hyde Park expecting to be seen and adored. Though the viscount professed to love the country, she seldom saw him at church or in town. He nodded before he seated himself across the table from her.

"What a surprise, Lady Julia, I understood you rode at sunrise. Are you not riding today?"

"I awoke late. Would you object if I ride with you after breakfast? It's nice to ride with someone."

"You're welcome. I usually ride over to where my lands join the Hawkthorn land, it is a fair distance."

"I do not mind a long ride. It sounds delightful." She almost laughed at his glum face.

He leisurely ate his breakfast then escorted her out to the stables. A stiffer more formal man would be hard to find. How could he and James have been childhood playmates?

She rode beside him at an easy pace. He acted restrained. "My Lord, I don't mind a good run."

He nodded then kneed his horse to a gallop. She dashed ahead and looked behind to see him smiling as he urged his mount to full speed. Aunt Shredda certainly had her eyes open when she looked at Viscount Ravenwood. He was every bit as handsome as a fairy tale prince, and certainly more handsome than the stout Prince Regent.

When he reached the fences he drew over and signaled her to stop. The true gentleman, he came around and helped her to dismount. He led her to two big stone outcroppings and indicated for her to sit on one, and he sat on the other.

"This is where James and I used to sit and plan mischief. He decided to join the army sitting right where you are. We didn't all go, you know."

"James had no idea he would become the heir then."

"You have the right of it. William Oliver, the vicar's son, Glen Sharn and James didn't have someone holding them back. Poor William took a fall early on, Glen came back with a nasty limp, and James felt forced to return to take over Hawkthorn."

"You shouldn't feel badly about not going."

"But I do. Boney has to be defeated. It doesn't seem fair that everyone else dashes off to save our country, and I sit back and enjoy myself. It should be my fight, too."

"Is that why you haven't taken a wife?"

The viscount looked startled. "Have my sisters been blabbing about my father wanting me to start my nursery?"

"No." She observed his discomfort in having her join him for his morning ride. She didn't mean to upset him.

"Are you planning to be a candidate for that position? Of my wife?"

She felt her cheeks flush. "Actually I'm not interested, but I'd like to pretend to be overwhelmed by you to keep James from trying to match me up with someone."

The viscount laughed. Julia could see why Aunt Shredda referred to him as tall, dark, and handsome. His teasing eyes looked almost black.

"Ah, Lady Julia, you do my heart good. You waste your time trying to pursue James, but it might be fun to try to get his goat. He's a stickler about being a gentleman with the ladies, and you're his ward, his responsibility."

"Then you will agree to flirt with me."

"But you must promise not to put me in a compromising position. I'll be your agreeable rake." He chuckled. "Who else is around for me to flirt with?"

"There's Ginny."

"Ginny has too many men turning themselves into lapdogs."

"She told me she hated going to London and liked the country best. Perhaps she is not too happy with lapdogs."

A surprised expression covered his face. "I do not believe Ginny would find country life without balls and fancy gowns to her liking."

"That is what she told me, nevertheless. Margaret and Jane are looking forward to their season, but then they too may find it tiresome."

His eyes twinkled in the sunlight. "And what do you want, Lady Julia?"

"To stay in the country and never experience a season. James is totally against this."

He let his eyes roll to the sky. "As he should be. But you will be a fine catch even if you continue to love the country."

"I lived my first eleven years in London and watched many balls from behind the greenery. Even then I preferred my horse."

He shook his head in disbelief. "Obviously, spoken like a true country maiden before she attends a ball and has her head turned by her many ardent admirers."

"You think Ginny had her head turned?"

His face lit in a knowing smile. "It would have been difficult for her not to. She is so beautiful that every man falls at her feet."

"Is that what they do in London? Grovel at the feet of beautiful women?"

"James is right -- you need a season."

"That is for me to decide. I do not feel you know women at all," Julia insisted.

"I am not blind. I know when a woman allows herself to be trailed by simpering lapdogs."

He is so passionate in a show of indifference to Ginny, Julia wondered if he secretly favored Ginny. "Don't forget you promised to flirt with me at dinner tonight."

"I shall not forget." He chuckled as he lifted her back on her horse. "Poor James hasn't a chance against such persistence."

"I have my heart set on James. Thank you, My Lord, for accepting to be my flirt."

"The pleasure is all mine. I believe it is time you call me Winnie and I call you Julia."

"Winnie. How nice that sounds to my ear." Julia nodded and smiled to herself. He was delightful, and if she hadn't needed to wed James, she might have whipped up a little interest in him. He is bound to be a faithful husband devoted to his country estate and not some bit of muslin in town. Sometimes she thought James loved Hawkthorn, but of course she could not expect him to give up the London life. It hurt to think of him with another female. Then she remembered Robert, and her promise. The only way to stay at Hawkthorn was to marry James regardless if he loved her or not. But that didn't stop her from hoping that he would.

The wind blew through her hair, and the sun shimmered on the brook that ran through the grounds, and time passed quickly. Hawkthorn had to be the most beautiful place on earth.

After they returned to the stables, Winnie smiled. "James will not believe how exciting I find your company tonight."

"I just want him to notice us."

"He will!"

That evening Julia held Winnie's attention to the point where one might say he appeared devoted. The more Winnie led her around or sought to bring her a drink, the more everyone else insisted on ignoring them. In fact James, Gabby, Keven and Glen seemed devoted to Ginny. Poor Ginny looked like she wished the earth would swallow her. She developed a headache and went to bed early.

Julia's conscience began to send prickles down her back. She even considered running after Ginny when Winnie remarked, "Watch Ginny, Julia. See how she pulls the men to her and then rejects them. She has no heart."

Immediately Julia realized that Winnie loved Ginny but could not stand the competition. He didn't have the slightest idea that his friends' devotion to Ginny stemmed from sympathy. Can't he see the hurt in Ginny's eyes? "I think they gave her the headache. She doesn't seem like a woman that enjoys pampering from a crowd. So impersonal, don't you agree?"

The viscount looked sad. "Ginny just naturally attracts men."

"She doesn't seem to attract you."

Winnie's mouth gaped open. "I make it a policy not to join those whimpering after the belle."

"So Ginny really does attract you, but you can ignore her?"

Winnie frowned thoughtfully and sighed. "Well...I...you might be right."

"Have you ever considered that you might be the only man that she wants?"

He shrugged. "If Ginny wanted me, she would never have gathered a court around her."

"Poor Ginny. If she loved you, she would have to propose."

"Ginny doesn't love any man."

"Isn't it strange everyone else thinks she is sad. That she has fallen in love with someone who doesn't love her."

"Preposterous!" He demanded, but peered at Ginny under furrowed brows.

"I'm not so sure," Julia whispered.

Winnie looked down, and the fun of charades dwindled. Not to mention, his devotion to Julia. She lost her flirt. And Winnie's stubbornness blinded him from realizing he was the man Ginny loved. Julia wondered what could be done to help them turn to each other.

After the guests sought their beds, Julia turned to James. "Did you have fun tonight?"

James took her firmly by the elbow and led her to the library.

"Fustian! It is not midnight."

The bells of the old clock struck midnight.

"It is now!" He closed the door and turned her to face him. "Julia, don't you ever realize anything? Ginny loves Winnie. Him trailing after you, waiting on you, distressed her. Winnie never flirted with a woman before. Whatever did you do to him? You haven't been to the old crone in town, who sells all kinds of hideous potions, have you?"

Julia straightened. "Poor old innocent Rose. She sells all sorts of harmless creams and herbal remedies. Do you think she's a witch? You think I'm a witch!"

James stood with his arms akimbo, his mouth tightly closed glaring at her.

With anger churning deep inside her, Julia uttered in an alarmingly low voice, "I watched Winnie burn with fury watching everyone of his friends behave like solicitous school boys to Ginny. He thinks she attracts lapdogs and wants to attend balls and buy gowns. He is in love with her, but he wants the country life. You are all a bunch of slow- tops if you could not see what your lavish attention to her did to him. He now believes that London will ruin Jane and Margaret." Julia watched his brow tighten as her words sunk in. "For that reason, Winnie has decided on one season for his sisters."

Suddenly James raised her chin with two fingers and looked deep into her eyes. His studied look unnerved her. "I know Winnie doesn't like London. Why was he flirting with you?"

"Do you want the truth?" She hoped she didn't have to him all that was on her mind.

"Of course," he answered with disgust.

"I asked him to."

He gaped at her. "Why?"

"Had to find out who Ginny loves." She failed to mention that she wanted to discern if James loved her.

He took a deep breath and stepped back releasing her chin. A feeling of loneliness took over her senses. "Julia, you must learn to stay out of other people's business. Maybe you are a witch! Do you fancy yourself a matchmaker?"

"I thought you wanted me to find a husband."

"Not Winnie. It would kill Ginny," James declared.

"Do you want to help them declare their love for one another?"

"It's too late to..." He turned to her, his frown beginning to relax. "Do you think you could manage to get them together?"

"Do we have a horse that would throw her. I understand he rescues downed damsels."

He threw himself in a chair and put his hand to his head. "Julia, don't do that. Ginny had a hard time getting back on a horse after a fall. Think of something else."

With a smile Julia sat in her chair. "I will."

"No scheming without telling me first." He shook his finger at her. "You are not the best judge of danger and could end up in need of rescuing yourself."

"By the Earl of Hawkthorn, no doubt!"

"Who else would want to rescue you?" He grabbed her arm. "Promise me, Julia."

"I promise," she whispered and silently added, not to let him interfere. And you, dear James, have canceled another candidate. You may end up being the only one left. Keep your fingers crossed Robert, and all our wishes will come true.

"Julia, tomorrow we are taking our guests to the ruins. I do not want you paying attention to only one person, male or female. You do understand what being a hostess entails?"

"Adele will have our lunch ready. Ellis has arranged for the carriages to be available. To quote Jane 'Everyone is excited'." She smiled at him and added, "Is there anything that you specifically want, James? Some detail that might slip by if you fail to make your wish clear."

James plopped into his chair, leaned back, and shook his head. "I fear any thought I may express could rise like a great balloon and only the heavens would witness its destination."

"And exactly what do you mean by that."

"Julia, I find it easier to accept what you do."

"Am I free to flirt with Gabby and Keven?"

"First look after all your guests."

"Of course."

Then Julia rose and left James to mull over his thoughts. She opened the door to her bedroom. The Old Earl stood leaning against one of her bed posters. Quietly she closed the door.

"I must think." she whispered to the Old Earl as he brushed back his shoulder length hair and bowed from the waist.

He spoke in his usual hoarse voice, slightly above a whisper, "Glen and Rebecca are happy. Well done. You have found the man who Ginny loves."

She smiled. "Now, I know."

The Old Earl nodded approval. She watched him with his burgundy velvet coat, sparkling in the moonlight, as he escaped through the window.

Even the Old Earl doesn't want to help her.

After Julia tossed and turned in bed for at least an hour, she got up and decided to go to the kitchen for a glass of milk to settle her nerves. She needed a scheme, especially when James would be watching her every move, and demanding she attend to the guests.

As she crept down the stairs carrying a candle, she suddenly heard a swishing sound. She stopped, looked around, deciding it was only her imagination, continued down. After two cautious steps the sound grew louder.

Then the hoarse whisper, "Julia, the old ruins will be the best place to trip Ginny."

"Where are you?"

The twirling mist slowly became visible in the candlelight. The Old Earl's wrinkled jowls trembled as he shook his head. Then his smile became visible. He waved her forward and the white lacy sleeves glittered as he floated down the steps. "No one's in the kitchen. We can make plans."

"Will you help me?" Julia asked.

"I can't trip a lady," his voice sounded as if he had been insulted.

"But you expect me to?"

The Old Earl danced down the steps. "Surely you haven't changed. I've never thought you had any rules. You didn't give a second thought to getting in bed with James."

Julia's stomach flipped. "I thought you approved."

"Indeed, I do!" He raised his eyes to the ceiling and snorted. "These are important steps in shaping James' life. This mortal is prone to do the worst possible when he wants to do the best. The only way to save him is to divert his attention."

"What do you mean?"

He ran a few steps ahead of her. "James and you are meant for one another. Our little charade moved up the date. Winnie and Ginny, such silly rhyming names! They need each other and they are so slow that they may not live long enough to accomplish the most noble achievement. At least Rebecca and Glen understand each other."

"They needed help." She offered.

He turned and threw his hands up. His lacy cuffs tossed twinkling stardust around the room. "A small action. A mere gesture. Get your milk and we can devise a way to trip Ginny."

Julia poured her cup of warm milk and sat at the servants' table. She rested her head on her fist. "What is your idea?"

"Ginny will have a hard time tripping on purpose. She will want to, but she has that reluctance built in. You must trip her. Let Winnie take care of her. Do not interfere."

"Ginny and Winnie will be nervous if anything happens." He was right: their rhyming names did sound silly.

The Old Earl laughed and almost disappeared. "Trip her. Winnie can't resist a lady in distress."

"I don't want to hurt her."

"Which will hurt her more? A sprained ankle or not marrying Winnie? Come now, answer me!"

"She does love Winnie." Julia smiled, certain she knew the depth of Ginny's love.

The Old Earl tiptoed around the floor. "You are strong enough to trip her, are you not?" He rocked back and forth on the heels of his square-toed boots.

"Of course," she whispered.

The ghost leapt upon the table and shrunk in size. "Tell her ahead of time." He threw his hands out and gave a hearty belly laugh. "Forewarn Ginny. Better tell her what to say, too."

"What do you mean by that?" Julia felt concerned.

He finally sat on the edge of the table. "She'd better sound like a lady who wants to be a country mouse and sit at home for the rest of her life with Winnie."

"Oh, but she does." Julia jumped up.

The Old Earl, who certainly acted spry, danced across the table, chanting, "Ginny has to open her mouth and say it. I think you had better coach her. Don't be a coward, Julia."

"Will you help me?"

Suddenly the mist floated through the wall.

One of the housemaids walked in. "Lady Julia, do you need help?"

"No, I'm talking to myself, Hattie, just talking to myself."

"No matter, my lady, I'm willing to help you."

"I'll call if I need you. Thank you, Hattie."

Now, the servants will think Julia's crazy. Or maybe they will think she is imagining a ghost. She bit her lip, and headed for the stairs. Should she ask James to help her?

Fiddlesticks! James would never approve. Besides, she must act quickly. Now which lord could she wheedle into pretending to be enchanted with her? Flirting seemed to be easier than she had imagined, except with a fan.

CHAPTER 13

The drivers aligned three carriages at the edge of the curved road in front of Hawkthorn Manor waiting to take the house party guests to the ruins. Glen and Becca, familiar with the old ruins on the property, rode ahead on horseback to find the best place to begin the hike.

Julia whispered to a footman, "Add a couple of extra blankets in the second carriage."

He looked as if she had grown two heads. "There is no need."

"I must have the extra blankets," Julia insisted. "They might be needed." Julia held her breath, relieved when he only shook his head with disapproval, but quickly headed back for the blankets.

She waited only a few minutes at the carriage before the footman returned and placed the extra blankets inside. As he passed her, he whispered. "They are tucked under the footstool for easy access."

Ellis waved the stable boys to the end carriage where they put the heavy baskets packed full of food prepared by cook. "They will take the food to the old summer cottage near the ruins. Footmen have been sent ahead to light the fireplaces so the room will be warm. The cold damp air made cook insist you should eat in relative comfort before returning to the manor."

Julia's stomach twitched in nervous anticipation, but she smiled at Ellis who shook his head giving her that all knowing look. Immediately she put Ellis from her mind and took her place as hostess.

James tied his horse to the rear of the first carriage after being persuaded by Margaret and Jane to ride with them. They deserted Keven the minute James helped them into the carriage. Julia could not help but wonder how they would do in their season if they stuck together with one man. They'd hardly receive a proposal in the first year.

Julia admired the way the two girls flirted, tapping James' arm with a fan. Yet when Julia tapped the window of the carriage with her fan as a signal to proceed, the carriage moved away so swiftly she nearly lost her balance on the gravel drive.

Cavalier Keven possessed an air of pride in himself while he chatted with Winnie and Gabby, who were mounted on their horses ready to ride alongside the carriages. Finally Keven leaped on his horse, and at that moment Julia decided he would be her next choice. Would he believe it would endanger his reputation to flirt with a country girl?

Ginny stood aside. Julia hurried to her and a footman helped them into the second carriage. After last evening, Ginny did not speak, and Julia let the silence hang between them until they were on the road. Julia whispered, "I've a strategy, Ginny."

With an apprehensive frown on her features, she turned to face Julia, "For what?"

"For you to capture Winnie."

"You practically held him captive all evening. I have never seen him attentive to a female before. I believe he is much taken with you."

"He simply promised to flirt outrageously with me to keep James off his stride. James wants to persuade one of the gentlemen to marry me."

Ginny eyed her skeptically. "Doesn't he want you to fall in love?"

"James is certain I will fall head over teakettle for all of his buddies. He is more interested that one of them fall for me," Julia confessed.

"Oh."

"It just so happens, that the men I have chosen so far have been smitten with others. They are not interested in me other than as a friend. That is why I am able to solicit their assistance."

"You don't say? Then that explains why Glen is now paired with Becca. She is nearly on his level in chess, too. Now you think you can make Winnie fall in love with me?"

Julia smiled with confidence. "Absolutely."

"How are..." Ginny hesitated, then continued in barely a whisper, "...are you going to do this?"

"You will help me. First, Winnie is already in love with you. Second, he can't bear any man paying attention to you, and third, he hates London and fears you love it."

Ginny's eyes widened, and she gasped. "Am I to tell Winnie I love the country?"

"Not until the right moment!"

"What do you intend to do?" Ginny seemed frightened.

"An accident."

Ginny looked horrified. "I don't want Winnie hurt."

"It is you who will look hurt."

Nibbling at her lip, Ginny confessed, "I'm not good at play acting."

"It will be easy. When Winnie rescues you, let the tears fall, and limp. Tell him your ankle is sprained. He will want to take care of it immediately but you must tear up, and tell him that you would just as soon it kept you limping. Then you can tell him you dislike London and all the balls, you prefer to stay in the country."

"That is true." Ginny smiled. "I would not be telling a lie."

Julia raised her eyebrows. "The truth is easier to tell. Winnie will ask why you haven't accepted any marriage proposals."

She bit her lip. "I cannot admit I only love him."

"Then tell him no one wants you: you who likes life in the country. It is a shame you can't tell him you're waiting for him to ask you."

"Oh, I can't do that." Ginny sat back thoughtfully. "Now where is it that I am to fall?"

"I will show you." All Julia's doubts fell away, her confidence flew to the heavens on the wings of a blue bird. Ginny must be persuaded to reveal her love for Winnie.

Julia peeked out of the carriage, and spotted the ruins. "We are nearly there Ginny. This is the place where we make your dreams come true."

Watching Ginny wring her hands, Julia knew she hadn't changed. Ginny would remain standoffish, and fearful.

"I hope you're right, Julia, I've never been so daring before. I pray your idea will work. I will try hard to do all you think I should."

The riders arrived first, and tied their mounts to the hitching posts that had been constructed for the Old Earl's guests.

The carriages arrived. The stable boys held the horses. The footmen helped Julia and Ginny from their carriage. James leaped down from his carriage, assisted Margaret and Jane as they stepped from the carriage, then began to carry out the traditions the Old Earl had adhered to for his Christmas house parties.

Julia couldn't help but notice that James smiled and joked with the two women who tapped him with fans. A twinge bit at her heart, but she frowned and ignored the pain. She planned to marry him. If only he would fall in love with her.

Once the group assembled, James, being a jolly host, had talked in detail to Margaret and Jane about the stunts he and his friends did in their youth, mostly in the ruins. The two women began to tease the others about the incidents.

"I can't believe Winnie would ever throw a bucket of water on anyone," Jane said.

"You're right," Winnie laughed.

"I saw him." Gabby chimed in with enthusiasm.

"I was nearly drowned," Glen admitted.

"James made him do it." Keven laughed. "I saw them."

Keven and Gabby tried to top the stories.

"Becca followed James and me one time, and got caught trying to squeeze between two rocks." Declared Glen.

"Let these tales be a warning. Especially to you, Jane," Winnie tilted his head her way.

James laughed. "Winnie, Jane's too old to listen to you. Come on, who is going to lead?"

Keven and Gabby started down the steep path. Some parts had washed away and stone steps appeared haphazardly along the trail. Once in a while a wall still stood, but James warned of the danger of leaning over the wall or against it trying to look out the ancient narrow windows. He pointed out the crumbling rock below where walls had fallen.

Becca and Glen who had been to the place many times seemed to take another pathway toward the interior of the old ruins. James joined Margaret and Jane with Winnie following.

Winnie showed no interest in the ruins or his sisters. He ambled along, every step showing evidence of a martyred guest. Ginny and Julia brought up the rear.

Soon Keven and Gabby were nowhere to be seen. James apparently took Margaret and Jane to view some unusual sight. At last only Winnie meandered along on the well- trodden path. And Ginny, lacking vigor or determination, unenthusiastically followed.

Julia looked around; now she had to take a chance. Her nerves quavered and she remembered promising James she would not trip Ginny. But how else could she get the couple together?

A raspy voice whispered in her ear, "Quickly, Julia, pass Ginny. Around a bend you will find a tree limb to place in her path. Hurry now."

Julia closed her eyes for a moment in silent prayer then walked briskly around the next bend while Ginny was looking across the valley. Sure enough, there was a limb. Julia hastily moved it across the path then retreated behind two boulders.

The Old Earl whispered, "Good girl."

Julia watched in silence as Ginny meandered up the path. A squirrel in a tree caught her attention and she stumbled over the limb. Ginny fell unceremoniously to the ground and moaned.

Julia winced. Had Ginny fallen harder than expected?

Gritting her teeth, she remained hidden and hoped Winnie would happen upon Ginny soon. Doubts began to gnaw on Julia at her decision to listen to a ghost or someone whispering in her ear.

No one would suspect Julia if she weren't around. Yet a frantic feeling of leaving someone in agony came over her. Should she go tend to Ginny? She stood very still against the boulder and peered around the side.

Ginny, laying on the ground moaned louder. Finally Winnie came around the bend. With a look of anguish, he whispered, "Ginny."

Genuine tears streamed down her face, Ginny gasped, "Help me."

Winnie ran to her. "I'm here, Ginny. Now lie still while I see if you have broken a bone."

As methodical as a surgeon, Winnie carefully felt around the bones before he lifted Ginny to her feet, then helped her to a large flat rock. Julia could not imagine that all that touching was necessary, but Ginny never complained.

Winnie pushed Ginny's hair back off her forehead. "I don't think you broke your ankle, but I think you have sprained it. You will not be dancing at the Christmas Ball."

Ginny sobbed. "The Christmas Ball in the country. It is the first ball I have wanted to go to in years. I hate London. Winnie, don't let Gabby make me go back there, please."

Ginny's words put a grin on Julia's face. Fancy that! She could not have written a better line.

Winnie hugged Ginny close and replied, "No one is going to make you go anywhere, Ginny. Now tell me if this hurts?"

"A little," Ginny whispered.

"We need to get you back to the carriages where you can be more comfortable."

"I don't think I can walk."

Julia swallowed hard at Ginny's words.

Winnie gently lifted Ginny, holding her close to his chest, and asked, "Is it just your ankle?"

"I don't know. I just hurt."

"Maybe I should -- "

"Don't leave me, Winnie, don't leave me."

He hugged her to him. "I would never want to leave you, Ginny."

Julia sighed at his words and had to remind herself to be quiet.

Ginny kissed his neck. "I wish you would be with me always."

"I like the country, not London."

"Me, too. I hate London."

"I love you. If I marry you, we might never see London again."

"Are you going to marry me?" Tears streamed down Ginny's face as she looked at Winnie.

"After I talk to Gabby."

Julia sighed to herself. It all seemed so romantic.

"Then I'll do the asking," Winnie added smiling at Ginny. "Not that I think you will let me have the first word again."

"I've always loved you. I've always listened to you."

Julia could not stop smiling when Winnie shook his head, and said, "Like the time I had to sit you forcibly on your horse."

"Why did you do it?"

"I didn't want a wife who was afraid to ride."

"Why did you wait so long to declare yourself to me? I wanted to marry you when I turned sixteen."

"I thought you needed a season."

That sounded familiar to Julia.

"I hated London. I only wanted to be with you."

"Music to my ears." Winnie started walking up the trail to the carriage with Ginny in his arms. A pang of regret filled Julia as she watched. If only James would look at her in the way Winnie looked at Ginny, then Julia would consider herself the luckiest lady alive.

Winnie leaned against a pile of rock and started kissing Ginny, and kissing her, and kissing her.

Julia wondered what it would be like to have James kiss her like that? Unable to hear their whispers as Winnie continued to carry Ginny back to the carriage, Julia stepped back onto the path. Pride surged through her for getting them together. With her head high she quickened her steps.

Shakespeare could not have staged it better! She cleared her throat. "Winnie, what are you doing carrying Ginny?"

"Go away," Ginny called.

Winnie laughed. "You need to be taught a bit of decorum, my love, before others catch up to us."

"Ginny!" Gabby yelled. "What is going on here?"

Julia jumped. Then as she looked around she saw James standing straight as an arrow, and glaring in her direction.

Winnie sat Ginny in the carriage and grabbed the blankets the footman held out to him. "I want to marry your sister, Gabby!"

"Looks to me like you...what?" Gabby's head jerked up to stare at Winnie. "How long have you felt this way?"

"Since the first time I saw her." Winnie admitted, while laying the blankets over Ginny's ankle.

Gabby's grin grew wider and his eyes twinkled with mischief. "Does this mean you will marry before the next season?"

Ginny looked up into Winnie's pleading eyes. He smiled. "If you can tolerate a country wedding, will February be too soon?"

Ginny reached up and kissed Winnie's chin.

Gabby's gaze turned skyward. "If you two can persuade mother, you have my permission."

"Gabby, you are now the head of the family," Ginny paused, and then grinned adding, "I consider you the last word."

"I don't want you taking her off alone," Gabby warned Winnie.

"I love her. But I'll make sure she has a chaperon until we are married."

A servant bowed, "Lady Julia, the table has been set, in the cottage."

"Thank you. Ginny and Winnie, you'd better get out of the carriage. Here let me take one of the blankets for Ginny to sit on. Winnie, can you bring the other for wrapping her ankle?" Then with the sweetest smile she could muster, added, "Gabby perhaps you will join them." Julia turned quickly to wave Keven, Glen and Becca to the cottage.

James followed with Margaret and Jane and seated them quickly. He dashed over to Julia and grabbed her by the arm. She cringed inside, but her mulish streak kept her calm.

"Julia," James whispered, "I'll talk to you later."

Everyone sat around the fireplace telling stories when James walked over to Winnie. "Is Ginny's ankle broken?"

"It doesn't hurt as much now," Ginny assured James.

Winnie smiled. "The ankle's sprained. But there were extra blankets to keep her ankle warm. The swelling has already begun to go down. We won't have to shoot her." he teased with a glint in his eyes.

James grinned and patted Ginny on the head as though she were a child. "I am glad you were not seriously hurt. I find it interesting that your white knight was so near to rescue you."

Julia didn't miss James' censorious look. In spite of him, Julia could hardly keep from smiling, feeling like a cherub for the moment even if James suspected that she had a hand in it. The thought of poor Ginny being forced to attend some balls this season for the benefit of Margaret and Jane didn't amuse her.

James finally came over to her, took her by the elbow and led her away from the others. "Well I hear you succeeded in getting a proposal. How did you do it?"

Surprised how pleasant his voice sounded, she leaned close and whispered in his ear, "I wasn't there. It seems she tripped. Perhaps she even fell into his arms."

"I'd bet one of my best horses that you were instrumental in her fall. Don't act innocent."

"Really, James!" She crossed her fingers behind her back. "You can't even recognize true love. Of course you are much too old for such mundane emotions."

Like the military man he used to be, James stood at attention and ordered, "Julia, there is much to do about this party with Aunt Shredda neglecting her duties. We must call a truce, there is the Yule log and the greenery to gather."

"And mistletoe." Julia smiled.

James' angry eyes mellowed and he chuckled. "Always the young romantic. Dear Julia, how much you have to learn. Instead of capturing available men for others you might start looking for a man for yourself. Or aren't you able to attract unfettered men?"

She smiled at the dragon, her dragon. For hadn't she desired to captured him? James had much to learn. She doubted she could love any man as much as she loved him. She had heard her uncle, when he wasn't teaching her, had quoted his own poetry to a light skirt. Yet, she truly believed her step-uncle remained faithful to her aunt to the very end. They loved their children and provided tutors for them.

But they weren't like Martha and Martin who hugged children and talked to them of the stars, the moon and the fields of grain. She learned a lot from the tenants about nature. Robert often walked with her when she took food or medicine potions and herbs to the tenants. Marrying James would answer her prayers. They could have babies of their own, and she could raise Robert properly, and tend to Hawkthorn.

"Cat got your tongue, Julia?"

Instantly she returned her wandering mind to James. "I can attract any man I want."

"Good! Save me from choosing one for you."

"You promised to marry me if I didn't fall in love."

James frowned. "If I were you I'd look at the eligible men standing around this table. You would never be happy married to a cavalry officer."

"What makes you so sure about that?"

James looked at her and she squirmed. He couldn't forget his promise. He couldn't just marry her off either. What power did her guardian have? She raised her chin and vowed to show him just how appealing she could be to the other men.

Turning, she caught site of Keven, and gazed soulfully at him.

CHAPTER 14

While buttoning up Julia's lavender dress, Louise said, "I forgot, milady, Lord Hawkthorn's in a lather. Said you better be down early. A mix-up in the seating for dinner."

"Botheration! Louise, you must hurry. I can't have James rearranging the seating. He doesn't have a romantic bone in his being. And I for one am going to sit next to Gabby. I need to keep him from interfering with his sister's romance and need to teach James a lesson."

"Sit milady, your hair."

Julia complied with her maid's command. It wouldn't do to arrive below stairs half prepared to meet the earl.

"I don't mean to complain about James -- he is an astute host. I just believe we need to keep the newly engaged couples together. It keeps the conversation from stalling. Lovers eyeing one another across the table do not have much to say to the guests on either side of them. Please make haste."

"Yes, milady." Louise set down the brush and threaded a ribbon through Julia's locks. "Keep them talking and they'll marry. T'was my mum's best advice."

"I'm sure you are right, Louise, but now I must hurry."

Louise smiled.

As Julia hurried downstairs she heard the raspy voice of the Old Earl. "Good girl! Winnie has Ginny in his pocket. Where she belongs."

"Thank you," Julia whispered.

"James is showing signs of jealousy. Is it for your good works or the attention the other men are paying to you?"

She tucked her head down hoping no one could see or hear her. "I think he wants to get rid of me."

"Enjoy -- " The Old Earl started.

"Julia, come help me change place cards." James interrupted. "Clarice and Aunt Shredda have gone to the vicar's for supper. Didn't Louise give you my message?"

"I came as soon as she remembered. It will take only a few minutes to rearrange them. You proceed to the drawing room and I shall see what can be done."

"Thank you. You had them both on the same side of the table, and I didn't know what other great plans you had playing cupid." He turned and winked.

Maybe the Old Earl is right, Julia thought, James may be a bit jealous that someone else played cupid. Julia entered the dining room and carefully arranged for Winnie to sit next to Ginny and Glen to sit between Ginny and Becca. That left only James and herself with a partner who would be reluctant to stop talking to his true love. Gabby sat next to Julia and Margaret next to James. That left Keven between Jane and Margaret.

Julia chuckled to herself. Margaret and James could out-do each other in their perfect behavior. Gabby would be thrown off with Jane on one side. But he should prove interesting to the debs with Ginny now engaged and the countess talking of moving to the dower house after the January wedding.

That evening after dinner, Glen Sharn, with nary a limp wandered over to talk to Winnie about crops. Ginny sat talking to Becca about wedding plans.

Julia suddenly noticed Gabby sitting off to the side looking out a dark window. Keven would have to wait. It was time she understood what made Gabby tick. Jane had chattered like a magpie, and Gabby had a difficult time answering all the questions about the wonders of a deb's first season.

Julia quietly walked over and stood behind the Earl of Howerd's chair until he noticed her image in the black glass. He smiled. "Thinking, Julia. That's all I'm doing is thinking."

"If you want to walk in the garden, I'll send for my shawl." At his quick frown, she added, "It is pleasant to walk in the gallery. We might gaze on the Old Earl and ask for his wisdom. Perhaps his ghost will float down and haunt you tonight."

"I choose the gallery. And if you promise to be amenable I might tell you stories of the Old Earl."

"I'd like that."

"Come, Julia, I'll show you a new way and no one will know we have left."

Excitement prickled up Julia's back at the light of adventure in Gabby's brown eyes. "Indeed."

"Ah, yes. James and I sought many a diversion here, while our mother's gossiped for hours."

They had barely taken ten steps before Gabby pulled her behind a curtain, and as though by magic a door opened and he pushed her inside.

"It's dark. I can't see." She blinked.

"One moment. I must find the lucifer. I brought a candle."

Julia could hear the scratch and see the flame touch the wick of the candle. Light flooded through the spider webs making lacy shadows on the ceiling and walls of a long narrow flight of stairs. Gabby took her hand and led her up the steps.

"I never knew of these stairs." The thought of the parched paper falling out of a book when she was cataloguing in the library came to her mind. The paper contained a map of hidden stairs, these stairs. Her heart pounded in her throat.

"James kept his treasures hidden in these secret passages. Didn't he acquaint you with the hidden stairs?"

"No, but he taught me to swim."

"I remember. You're the devilish imp that upset him fishing with the stable boys." With a chuckle, he added, "Worried you would drown."

"I thought he wanted to drown me."

"James? Too soft-hearted by far. Never could understand how he lived ten days in battle. Figured he would be the first to bite the dust. Surprised at Becca's brother not surviving, but he did save twenty men. He was a hero in civilian life as well as the army. Always brave."

"What made you feel he would survive?"

"Because he was taller, stronger, and smarter than the rest of us."

They had reached a landing and Gabby opened the door. After they stepped into the gallery, he closed the door and it looked like every other panel along the wide hall.

"How many backstairs are there in this place?"

"Not backstairs, a hidden stair," Gabby quickly said.

"From how many rooms can you find a hidden stair?" Julia insisted.

"How would I know? It's not my place, Julia. I'm not sure that James knows them all. Whoever built this place must have been frightened of someone or something. The thought must have inspired James' grandmother to write the Dragon stories. The original Hawkthorn built thick walls, but left enough space to hide a stairway."

"Can't imagine why no one told me."

"I think you created enough mischief in your first days here to scare a saint."

"Oh, Gabby, I never meant to."

"I know." He offered her his arm and started down the dimly lit hall. "The Old Earl doesn't hold the most prominent place in the gallery, yet to me he should," Gabby's words sounded sincere.

They stood quietly before the oil painting of the Old Earl.

"He was certainly a tall, majestic man," Gabby commented. "James and I knew he meant what he said."

Julia stared at the painting. His shoulder length white hair, burgundy velvet coat with lace that hung below his sleeves, pale pantaloons and square-toed boots were the same as when he appeared to her. "His jowls aren't wrinkled."

"They weren't until the last year of his life. He lost weight then. Did you know the Old Earl?"

"No. My aunt knew him."

Gabby nodded and he motioned for her to sit on the bench with him.

"Do you believe in ghosts haunting where they lived?" Julia asked in a whisper.

"If you're asking does the Old Earl haunt the place, I would have to admit that James and I expected him to. We looked everywhere for him after his death. The maze was a particular place we expected to find him. We traveled up and down the stairs, both swearing we could see a figure ahead that had all the attributes of the Old Earl. I'm now certain ghosts do not exist."

"I thought I talked to the Old Earl." She confided in a low voice not wishing the ghost to hear her.

"How would you know?"

"I saw mist, and heard a man's voice."

"In the maze?"

"Never. Once I was lost there. Terrible place."

"Too frightening. What you saw was a bit of mist rise, and a servant whispered some good advice. Always take their advice. The backstairs servants know everything."

"That's true." Then Julia swung around so she could see Gabby's face. "Would you pay attention to me for a day or two?"

"Why?"

"I want James to notice me."

"So that's why Glen and Winnie flirted with you." Gabby gave her a knowing look. "You're one great matchmaker. I had given up on Winnie long ago, and thought Ginny had, too."

Julia laughed. "Oh, I did help in the matchmaking. I've played chess with Becca. She improved my game. I heard James give Glen credit for being a champ in chess when he and Becca talked of the game. And I made sure that your sister would fall into Winnie's arms. And she did -- in a manner of speaking."

"I do not believe such a glib confession. How could you contrive anyone to fall that is as fragile as Ginny? Nor would anyone believe a chess game could bring Becca and Glen together. Some other magic was in the air. However, Becca and Winnie always did prefer taking in injured animals of one kind or another, like birds with broken wings."

"Neither Glen nor Ginny have a helpless bone in them," Julia stood with her arms akimbo, her hands fisted. "It may have been magic, but I'm certain you misunderstand Becca and Winnie."

"No need to get huffy. I agree. But both turn to jelly in front of their true love. Wait until they get married. It will be bliss or hell. No chance of the middle road like the rest of the world expects."

"Maybe you are right. Most of us want a love match but settle for less." Her heart constricted at the thought of her unrequited love for James.

"I understand it's wise to settle for something comfortable. It might lack fireworks but you don't catch on fire and burn."

"Marriage without love can run smoothly?" She wondered if James would ever be comfortable with her.

"Maybe. Yet, if your heart is set on James, I'll help you chip off the ice he's packed around his heart."

"I thought you called him soft-hearted."

"James is soft-hearted. But he gave up on love. First his mother died. Then his father waited too many years before he remarried. James no longer needed a mother. Nevertheless the real tragedy occurred when a sophisticated beauty flirted with James to capture a title."

"He fell in love with her?"

"He thought so. Joined His Majesty's Army when the beauty announced her engagement to an old man with a title. His friends and family cheered that she didn't get her talons in James. Would have been his ruin."

"Are you sure?"

"Hateful woman. Has almost spent her husband's fortune on gowns and jewels. Dances with all the young bucks and is unfaithful to her husband."

"My, my. All for a title?"

"Many a woman wants that more than bread."

"Why then do you think James thinks I need to marry a title?"

"Titles usually have more money. Maybe James could fall in love with you. Blast it all, you're pretty as a picture. You might be able to handle him. Turn him into a real sweetheart."

"Will you help me?"

"Indeed! My pleasure." Gabby chuckled. "Think this might be fun. Hate being stuck with Margaret and Jane. All they can talk about is their season. They will abhor the ton before the season is over, and Winnie will have a fit. His father will take over and handle them better."

"Maybe Ginny will be breeding and save the season for them after all."

"By rights it should not be Winnie's responsibility." Gabby rose and tucked her hand into the curve of his arm. Lost in their own thoughts they walked in silence around the gallery looking at the Hawkthorn earls and countesses.

Julia wondered if she would become a countess and if her picture would hang in this gallery. What will people think about her and James? Will they talk about the marriage of convenience? Will they tell stories about James running to London to be with an opera singer? That bothered her to no end. Not the talk of his affairs as much as him leaving her in the country alone and him going to London to visit another woman.

Gabby stopped to gaze again at the Old Earl before he turned to Julia and said, "Now about us. I could hold you closer in the waltz and blow in your ear. Might even dance two or three waltzes before giving you up to the others. That'll set James off. I have a feeling he still thinks you're his property while trying to give you away."

"Maybe it will work. Let us try it."

"We can make an entrance. Shall it be through the French doors or down the stairway? Do you have a preference, Julia?"

"I would need to get a cloak if we use the French doors."

"Settled. We shall go down the stairs and through the ballroom doors. I don't want you dreaming about ways to be noticed. I don't take well to being tripped to bring attention to our entrance. I'll knock over a vase or something if they ignore us."

Julia had never felt more nervous. Who would ever be able to marry this calculating man? Calm beyond reason. She swallowed and followed his lead. The doors to the ballroom stood open and they paused under the arch and waited until the musicians played a waltz. They quietly joined the dancers.

The strings of the violin and the beat of the waltz soothed her while Gabby pulled her to him and circled around the floor. No one could miss them. Gabby led her close to every couple, often lightly brushing a gentleman's sleeve or being brushed by a lady's skirt.

Julia had to close her eyes for she could not bear to see the censure that surely existed. As they danced Gabby didn't leave room for a sheet of stationery to be slipped between them. His thigh touched her thighs.

"If you don't stop frowning and look at me with smiling eyes, I'll swing you around until you become limp," Gabby whispered.

He blew in her ear and warmth ran down her that took her breath away. Her eyes flew open and she tried to smile.

"A real smile. James' eyes are squinting with disapproval. He is shooting daggers at me. Believes I'm taking advantage of his ward. Here he comes." He pulled her closer and she saw James' hand grab Gabby's shoulder.

"My waltz, Gabby."

"Lady Julia, would you like to dance with James?"

She barely nodded her head. Or should she have refused? Why hadn't Gabby told her what to do?

James grabbed her and Gabby whispered, "Blow in her ear."

Julia forced a smile at James. He looked about to explode. "Julia, don't you know better than to let a man hold you so close," he whispered in her ear.

His breath warmed her to the pit of her stomach. She felt all tingly inside from his touch compared to Gabby's touch. When James twirled her, she felt light-headed and leaned closer to him for fear she might fall.

"Julia, what am I going to do with you? Gabby is far too sophisticated. He is not at all tuned to a young lady's needs. I don't believe him suitable."

"You said all your friends were suitable."

"Gabby needs to mellow before he can handle someone like you."

"Is there something wrong with me?" Julia wondered if James had even heard what she said.

"No. He isn't the right man and this isn't the right time. Ginny and Winnie need to get married before Gabby can think of a bride."

James pulled her closer and whispered, "Nice waltz. You chose good musicians."

She smiled, hoping that he was becoming jealous of each of her suitors. Three men down and one to go and Keven should be an easy touch. With any luck, this may turn out to be a love match after all.

Midnight came and the clock echoed out the hour. Julia scurried in twenty minutes late. James noticed her hair had tumbled down, and wondered if Gabby had been kissing her. He stiffened and stopped himself from accusing. Gabby was wrong for Julia but he would need to persuade her.

"I am sorry to be late, but there were many last minute chores."

"Did one of them include Gabby?" Damn, he meant not to bring the man's name up.

She sat in her chair and flung back her hair. "Yes it did. I am afraid my delay was my own fault, but Gabby did try to come to my rescue."

"On what pretense?" His temples throbbed.

"For some strange reason when I searched through the linen closet for an extra blanket my ribbon caught on the door frame." She leaned back and laughed. James wanted to strangle her pretty little neck. "Gabby does not know how to untie a ribbon and he caused it to become more tangled. Finally, I took all the pins out of my hair and managed myself. I wonder if Ginny ever had a mishap. Gabby obviously does not know how to handle a simple hair ribbon."

"I hate to contradict you, but I imagine Gabby purposely caught your ribbon, and had fun tangling it up." He desired to put a sword through Gabby's midsection.

"Don't be silly. Have you no sense of humor? It was no more than a funny incident."

"How many kisses did he steal." He couldn't stop himself from imagining the two of them in a lover's embrace.

"What makes you think..." Julia paused before a saucy laugh escaped her full lips. "I am not telling you."

James sobered. "I will not permit you to marry Gabby. He is wrong for you. We will not discuss this."

"Perhaps we should discuss a safer subject." She eyed him thoughtfully. "I am anxious to start decorating the house for Christmas. Cook has been preparing for days. When shall we start, James?"

"Robert is anxious, too."

"When did you see Robert? He didn't tell me he saw you."

"I see him everyday whenever it is possible."

"That is nice."

"I will never neglect my heir."

She smiled. "He does love you, James, and talks about you -- but nothing specific. Do you have some secret project?"

One is to control her. He will make her forget Gabby's kisses. James steepled his hands. "Yes. I think that I can admit to having a secret project. One you will be pleased with."

"You are not teaching Robert to shoot? He is too young."

I do not believe it necessary to seek your opinion on this subject. "I promise I'll not teach him to shoot until he is ready. I've not taken him on another hunt. In fact none of us have been hunting since the first morning. How have you managed that?"

"How could I manage what you do?"

"Somehow I think you do. I always think you have a way of doing the impossible without trying. Frankly I was frightened that if you couldn't have Gabby you would tie Margaret to him and that would be a disaster."

"I don't want Gabby."

"I am glad to hear that. For I would never let it happen."

"We will start decorating tomorrow?" She looked away.

"I will check with Ellis and some of the men in the stable. It is late, I will walk you to your room."

James pulled her arm under his then led her to the stairs. Awareness filled the air around them as he continued walking her up the stairs at a leisurely pace.

Never had he thought walking a lady could be so stimulating. He could feel his pulse race as they walked down the hall. The flickering candles turned her hair to spun gold. Stopping at her door, he slowly turned and gazed into her eyes. Eyes wide with anticipation and longing. He touched her cheek with his fingertips, leaned down, brushed her lips with his, and then he kissed her. Tentatively her hands slid around his neck. Her fingers threaded through his hair and sent lightning down his spine. The kiss grew more passionate. As she swayed toward him, his desire soared. He wanted the warmth of the kiss, and her body to last forever.

As he held her tight, his mind fought the actions of his body. What did he think he was doing? She was his ward for him to protect from men like himself. Abruptly let her go and pulled away.

"Did Gabby kiss you like this?"

What was wrong with him? He had no right to ask. He couldn't be jealous.

CHAPTER 15

The next morning before dawn, Julia dragged herself from bed. She did not call for Louise, instead dressed in her green velvet riding habit and quietly crept down the backstairs to the kitchen.

"Sit down, Lady Julia. I'll warm your tea." The cook turned to finish kneading the bread.

"If the biscuits are not ready, I'll take a raspberry tart."

"No, no! It shan't be long before I have the biscuits in the oven." Cook slowly dried her hands. "What about dinner tonight? Have you any special requests."

"I thought we agreed on the menu."

"Ah, yes." She turned again not yet putting the kettle on the hearth. "I thought I might change the dessert."

Julia sensed cook's questions and chatter were in an effort to delay her. She had never seen cook so nervous. "I have no preference. I'm not thirsty. I'll just take a tart and perhaps an apple."

"I have some other questions."

"I'll stop in when I return." She left for the stable. Certain in her heart cook's suggestions were ridiculous and meant only to postpone her leaving. A sense of being forewarned made Julia choose the long way around to the stable, and when hidden by the brush, she stood for a minute watching the surprise that Robert hinted about.

James led a horse around the racing circle while Robert practiced riding. Robert looked so small and so serious that Julia almost cried. The boy must have wanted this all along and she had discouraged him. It did not come easy for him to be around horses. Yet she could see the pride James showed and the happiness that Robert exhibited after James handed him the reins.

Julia quietly returned to the kitchen. She had no intention of ruining their surprise.

"Julia," a familiar male voice caught her off guard, she jumped. "You could almost make a bachelor change his mind, seeing a woman thoughtful enough not to ruin a surprise. They are both working hard. Robert's wish is to have the bottom his Julia has."

Julia whiled around and smiled at Gabby. "So everyone knows but me."

"James has told no one. Robert told me."

"When?"

"One day in the kitchen."

"What were you doing in the kitchen?"

"Talking to cook about a dog I saw in town. Robert and I talked about dogs and horses. One thing led to another."

"There have been no dogs here since the Old Earl's hounds."

"I didn't say there was a dog here."

"You're just like James." She made a fist. "When you don't want to talk about something you talk nonsense."

Gabby rubbed his neck. "Think we had better return to the breakfast room and enjoy a bit of food. When James returns to the house, he will think we planned to meet. He might marry you to save you from me."

Gabby was more like a brother to her in the way he offered his help in snaring James. She gazed at the ceiling to keep from laughing. "That is all we need. I told him how you could not handle a simple hair ribbon."

"He accused me of kissing you."

She amended her previous notion that he was not like her, but more like James. "You two were cut from the same cloth."

"Not a bad comparison. Downright flattering to an old staid bachelor like myself."

Gabby opened the door to the breakfast room and nodded to Winnie. "Good morning, my future brother-in-law."

"We have much to talk about. Julia, what are you doing up?"

"Just thinking about eating breakfast and taking a ride."

Winnie leaned back in his chair. "Think it might snow before nightfall. We had all better visit the shops in town and pick up anything we might need for our Christmas celebration."

"I'll mention it to the women."

"Thank you, Julia. I want to take Ginny to my house to look over any changes she might want to make." Winnie grinned. "Can we borrow Milly for a chaperon?"

"Milly will enjoy that." Julia excused herself. "I will be down later."

On the way to her bedroom Julia laughed. Winnie's love shone like a beacon. Lucky Ginny. Julia didn't suppose James could ever love her that way.

The afternoon was spent with Julia taking Margaret and Jane to town to purchase gifts for servants and others. It took hours trying to choose special gifts for everyone including Robert. Julia could not believe Robert had made friends with so many of the guests.

Margaret and Jane obviously were not in love with anyone, only completely enamored of having a season. They treated James, Keven and Gabby as though they were brothers. The two young ladies tried to persuade Julia to join them in London. She supposed James had persuaded them to talk her into a season, though they denied it.

Even the men went to town in a carriage and returned with gifts.

Winnie and Ginny, with Milly, went their own way and visited his home. Ginny said Winnie's father and uncle talked of spending the year in London. Winnie with a grin mentioned his father was pleased that he and Ginny were marrying very soon. It sounded as if a big town wedding would occur after January first.

Becca and Glen visited the vicarage and received a blessing from Becca's father. They told of their plans for their wedding. It would be definitely before February. Glen's small estate, located in a nearby town, needed Becca's attention.

Julia decided once again to become better acquainted with Keven. Hadn't Aunt Shredda hinted he would be easy to manage, yet impossible to catch?

When the musicians appeared after supper, Aunt Shredda and Clarice insisted everyone dance. Julia sidled up to Keven and, being a gentleman, he asked her to waltz with him. They danced around the polished floor under the many-candled chandelier.

"We have a most effective shadow, Lady Julia."

Julia looked at the shadows dancing on the white paneled walls. She looked into his teasing eyes and smiled. "I never noticed the shadows dancing around the room. Do you judge them by the heights of the partners?"

"I believe the grace of the partners far more important. Look how gracefully you move your head, and hold your hands." He twirled them around. "See how smoothly our shadow spins around the room."

"Reminds me of Robert's spinning top. I must show him how its shadow can spin in candlelight."

"Am I welcome to view that demonstration?"

"If you are here." She bit her lip and changed the subject. "Look at poor Ginny sitting with her foot resting on a stool. She will not be able to dance with Winnie."

"I don't think they particularly mind sitting out the dances."

How very true, she mused to herself, smiling.

"You need not feel so smug -- it was bound to come about."

She felt a flush creep up her face. "What are you talking about?"

"You can't fool everyone. Ginny is not clever enough to have captured Winnie so quickly without assistance. I doubt you could have gotten her to stage the stunt. Did you push Ginny or trip her?"

Julia stumbled, but Keven lifted her up, and she fell back into step. "Has the cat got your tongue, Julia?"

"I pulled a tree limb in her path," she muttered so low she hoped he couldn't hear her.

Keven chuckled. "Very well done. It would have happened this season anyway."

"How can you be sure?"

"Her fourth season? She would be considered long in the tooth and Winnie couldn't bear her to be neglected."

"You were all content to sit and wait while they both suffered. That is unkind." She felt herself stiffen.

Keven smiled, pulled her closer, and swung her around until she relaxed. "Men are not impulsive about setting the world right. You waltz well when not provoked."

"Thank you, my lord."

"Keven, Julia."

"Keven."

"Becca loves Glen and she would have brought him up to snuff very shortly. You forced James into assisting you."

She pulled away. "How dare you accuse me of using..."

"Do not get me wrong, I quite approve of your tactics," Keven spoke in an even everyday manner.

"Then why..."

His unexpected chuckle cheered her. "Because I don't want you to think you can fool me."

Julia wanted to shout at Keven, but she controlled the urge and stated as a fact, "If you are hinting that I have an eye to capture you, you are mistaken."

"I'm disappointed. I would have liked to experience your clever maneuvers. Haven't come face to face with anyone so clever since I left Oxford. Margaret and Jane are far too predictable for me. Please do not force me to waste time with them."

"I would not subject them to your frankness," Julia sputtered.

"Perhaps you could enlist me to help you with whatever new adventure you are interested in."

Julia eyed him curiously. "You are quite different than you appear."

"How so?"

"I expected you to be staid. Issuing compliments to all the females, regardless of age, looks or predictability. I did not envision a man gifted with a keen sense or a sharp eye behaving as though he had neither until he captured you in a waltz."

"I'm flattered. I only compliment the matrons. They seek me out to dance with the debs. It gives me carte blanche at a dance."

"I assume the excessive adulation you inspire in the fair sex annoys you."

"Absolutely not. I thrive on it. You are immune to my many charms?"

"Completely." She laughed.

"Perhaps a partnership."

"I can use a bit of help."

"Your request is my command."

"Tomorrow when we go to collect the greens for decorating, I would like for you to flirt with me and be my partner. I promise not to trap you."

"I will agree though I am disappointed that you have no intentions of trapping me. I'm a master at upsetting female trickery."

Keven surprised Julia. He turned out to be different than she had imagined and it made her more cautious. "You need have no concern." Poor dear Aunt Shredda didn't really know Keven, he was far more than the complimenting Romeo she visualized, she would be disappointed to know he reserved his foolish flattery for older women.

The music stopped and James claimed her for a waltz. His hand slipped around her waist, lightning ran down to her toes. He twirled her around the waxed floor, she felt like a feather blowing in the breeze. Her heart pounded and she could not take her eyes away from his gaze. What happened to her senses when he held her close? A strange sensation stole over her that brought on a yearning for more than a waltz. She wanted his arms around her forever. Such scandalizing thoughts had to be stopped. She must turn her mind to tomorrow and decorating the manor for Christmas.

She no sooner left James' arms than Keven grabbed her and swung her into another waltz, leading her past the French doors to where the potted palm trees hid one from the others. "Please note the murmurs that will arise when we waltz back into view of all."

"Devilishly kind of you, but tomorrow is soon enough," Julia stated in an offhand manner.

"Just a hint of mystery and the road will be smoother tomorrow. We weren't out of sight long enough for a passionate kiss."

She could not stop smiling. "You may be harder to manage than I planned."

"Far more interesting. Try if you can to make a married man out of me."

"Never. You'll get no Spanish coin from me."

"Watch your tongue, young lady. I'll report you to your guardian and he has a fearful temper."

"Truce, Keven. Tomorrow only need be a mild flirtation."

"The kind that Robert can watch?"

"Absolutely."

"Julia, you are still that ragamuffin that swims with the stable boys while standing as straight as a queen. James is going to miss you when you up and marry."

"Maybe I'll marry a stable boy."

"I wonder who James will find suitable for a lady whose eyes twinkle with mischief and mystery."

"The music has stopped. I need to return to being the hostess for everyone."

Keven bowed. "Until tomorrow, my beautiful lady."

She smiled and gave a little bow when he murmured under his breath. "A bit of Spanish coin."

"Manners," she replied.

James came over quickly. "Julia, can you see if cook has anything else to drink. It might be nice to have a bit of punch. Dancing can warm one's blood."

"Of course. You might find someone to dance with Keven. He seems to have dancing feet tonight."

James' face went blank after a twinge of anger flashed from his eyes. What kind of a fool is he? She thought he'd be rather pleased about Keven. Maybe he is and wants to try and get a commitment from his friend to marry her.

She felt safe with Keven, for when he falls it will be hard if not fatal. Yet it would be well to watch that Keven doesn't give away her plan.

The clock in the library clearly showed twenty minutes past midnight. Julia drummed her fingers along the arm of the high-backed chair. Finally, the door swung open and James strolled in as if he wasn't late.

"I am grateful you waited for me. Frank insists it is going to snow. I hoped it would wait until we had gathered the evergreen. Snow makes it more difficult."

"But Robert will love it all the more. Snow goes with Christmas," Julia said in what she hoped sounded like a soothing voice.

"And brings sled time. Every little boy likes sleds."

"Is this something you outgrow?"

James chuckled. "No."

"In that case is there anything special I need do?"

"Try to keep our guests happy if it snows, for I need time to get the sleds ready. This does not include entertaining Gabby. He will be a pest if he thinks he's making me angry."

"Fiddlesticks! I will keep your guests occupied including Gabby."

"He doesn't need entertaining. Now Margaret and Jane need to be kept occupied. They drive the men crazy wanting to get promises of carriage rides, insisting we all dance with them. If someone could only convince them to relax and enjoy the parties they would meet the man of their choice."

Grinning, Julia said, "Young, tall, handsome, titled and with pockets filled to the brim."

"They don't need all those attributes."

"Margaret and Jane are both long Meg's. It hardly seems right for them to marry a short men."

"I concede, tall is necessary."

"Old seems unlikely too, since your friends in their thirties find them too young."

"Height and age might make a difference. I said they didn't need all those attributes."

"That leaves, ugly, untitled and poor."

"It can be an untitled second son with a good income."

"You must admit I certainly understand the limits of your friends."

"Their lives are none of our business."

"Admit to the truth. Young, tall, handsome, titled and rich."

"I see no reason why they should not expect to find the ideal mate without our help."

"If the two of them discover any man suitable, how could they ever resist." Julia took one glance at James' frown and no longer thought of teasing. "I can see you are not up to admitting the truth. You look tired, James. I'll see to your guests tomorrow."

"Our guests. Yours, Robert's and mine. We represent Hawkthorn."

"I have no Hawkthorn blood in me. See you in the morning." She quickly rose, intent on getting out of the library before she started to cry. He must think of her as a sister if he forgot she wasn't a blood relation.

James stood. "Robert will enjoy tomorrow and everyday until Christmas. No lessons in the school room until after the holiday. Goodnight, Julia."

She stopped. Now he was putting her in her place and ordering her about once more.

"Robert is my ward, Julia. He will have fun gathering greens for the manor. Goodnight, my dearest ward."

His dearest ward? Confused, she fisted her hands and bit her lip as she ran up the stairs and down the hall to her room.

In her room, she felt a stab of disappointment in finding Louise waiting and not the Old Earl.

Louise helped her undress and she quickly crawled into bed, too tired to think.

It snowed during the night and the heavy flakes clung to the ground. The heavy clouds that still scampered in the sky tweaked Julia's nerves. The delay generated restless guests who wandered around the house rather than play games. Robert pestered to go outside. His usually good-natured governess became impatient and snapped at the boy.

By early afternoon, as they began their walk to the woods, the snow that threatened all morning began to fall. At the first sight of large white snowflakes, the group frolicked like colts. Robert leaped and dashed around the trees like a young puppy. James, who held tightly to Robert's hand, seemed undisturbed being pulled in circles as he led the group to the sleds.

At first glance Julia could not suppress her surprise. She knew James would have the sleds cleared of the dust-filled cobwebs that had accumulated over the years and the runners waxed, but the sleds no longer had chipped paint. "Oh, James, the sleds are beautiful! I never suspected you had them painted."

Robert shouted, "Best sleds in all of England, I bet."

James smiled, showing pleasure when she praised him, but Robert's delightful reception brought laughter to his lips and a twinkle to his eyes. Julia had never seen him look more handsome.

Robert and James bowed politely before helping Margaret and Jane into the black sled with red trim. Gabby leaped in after them and grabbed the reins.

Julia and Robert watched sleds gliding along the snow-covered ground.

Glen and Becca jumped into the second sled painted red with black trimming and playfully fought for the reins as only those in love are wont to do.

Winnie and Ginny, her ankle still bandaged, strolled along singing carols allowing their voices to echo through the trees. Only during the pauses between songs could one hear the snow muffled beat of the horse's hoofs or the faint hissing of the runners. The beautiful sounds of Christmas, Julia thought.

The group teasingly harangued over every evergreen bough. Each holly branch required close inspection to be certain it had the optimum number of berries.

Julia cheered when Keven climbed high up a tall tree to secure the best of the mistletoe. Keven flirted as planned and teased her while he insisted on yet another cluster of mistletoe from a higher tree.

James appeared to ignore them.

The two fancy sleds were piled high with greens and Julia tried unsuccessfully to head the party back to the manor.

Keven possessively put his hand on her elbow. "Julia, relax. You are not responsible for everyone here. James is Robert's guardian. Look at how Robert admires him. We may get a little wet but we are close to the manor."

"We have wandered farther than you might believe."

"So young, and so beautiful, and so somber." Keven ran his fingers through the curls that hung out from her bonnet. "You should not take life so seriously."

She tried to laugh away her anxiety. "Aunt Shredda believes it stems from too much neglect."

"I know James' father and brother have been accused of taking their scholarly pursuits more seriously than the management of the manor, but I see little evidence that this is true. It must be your social life she felt neglected."

Julia cringed at having revealed too much of her personal life and would never admit to Keven or any of James' friends that she kept the manor in repair. "It is difficult to create London's social life here in the country."

"You will enjoy a season. I shall promise to show you all of London, demand two dances at every ball and join your admirers at every function."

"Did James put you up to this?"

"He merely said he desired to take you to London. I wanted you to know that I would help make you a success."

"I don't want a season."

"Keep repeating promises like that, and I might offer for you."

Keven smiled and Julia could understand the many hearts he broke with his devil- may-care attitude. "I doubt you could bear to be tied down by marriage."

"You are a breath of fresh air even under a snowy sky."

"It is growing dark. Look behind you." She waited until he turned around. "You no longer can see the green of the pines. You can only perceive their outline and that of the black leafless trees etched against the snow."

Keven nodded. "Or more important, the horses are getting impatient with the sun setting. I will light the lanterns on the sleighs. You fetch Robert and we will head back to the manor."

She ran to Robert and yelled, "It's late, time to go!"

"I'm having fun," he protested.

"You are wet and need to eat. Miss Harper is waiting for you."

"I don't want to go back," he whined loudly.

James walked over and lifted Robert on to his back. "Time to go back. Our hostess has spoken."

Julia stood in awe. James actually made Robert respect and obey her wishes. Though it may have been James' wish also, yet it pleased her. He filled each day with surprises.

The guests ran over to the sleds to help lead the horses back to the manor. James took the lead, grabbing Julia's hand. "Come on, Robert is tired and needs his bed. And you have had quite enough attention from Keven for today."

Did James find Keven too good for her? Though Julia resented James' high and mighty manner, she held her tongue in appreciation that Robert no longer fussed.

With others taking the sleds to the barn and hanging evergreen boughs postponed until tomorrow, Julia and Robert slipped off to the nursery where Miss Harper waited with a hot bath after ringing to have supper on the way for the boy.

When Julia leaned down to kiss Robert, he held her tight and whispered, "This is a real Christmas, isn't it?"

"Yes. All the merriment and tradition that we read about. This year will leave us magic memories to dream about."

"The Old Earl said you brought out the Christmas spirit in James. I love James. He is really a good dragon, Julia. When are you going to marry him?"

"Soon." She tried to sound convincing to the young boy.

She left the room smiling. Robert loved every moment of every day since James arrived. His lessons have had to be curtailed, but after Christmas they would work hard and catch up. Then she remembered James planned to replace her with a male tutor. Well two can play that game. She would keep a close check on the tutor. Robert must have the right instruction. James had promised she could be the judge of the tutor, and rightfully so. It hadn't taken Eton to teach her Greek but she would have loved to have been allowed to attend the school.

Julia crept into her own room, sank into her chair by the fireplace, closed her eyes, and listened to the wind clattering her windowpanes. The sudden sound of a log falling in the fireplace made her raise her head and open her eyes.

"Very good performance. Turned the dragon mad with all the attention shown you." She recognized the Old Earl's voice and looked around for his misty form and found him leaning against the fireplace.

"Keven is a good actor."

The Old Earl raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "Don't you think you turned his head a bit?"

"He'd not serve my purpose," she snapped.

"You must marry James for Robert's sake as well as James'," the Old Earl whispered in his persuasive voice. He floated up a foot or more and let his feet dangle above the floor. "You promised."

Julia laughed at his whimsical antics. "I will keep my promise to Robert."

"Keven will help you collect the crystal balls and bells from a trunk in the attic."

"Decorations in the attic. How wonderful! How will I know which trunk?"

"Christmas is carved on the top. Used my knife well as a boy."

She chuckled. "Wonderful," she said to the disappearing mist. With a shake of her head she wondered if it were all her imagination or a dream. But of course she could check out those decorations.

Louise came in and rushed her to dress for dinner. Though they continued to have formal dinners, it seemed ridiculous. Their guests chattered across the table trying to top each other's stories of the past Christmases at Hawkthorn; nothing like the first formal dinner. Soon after the last course was served, the men decided to have their port with the ladies in the drawing room.

Though they sang carols for a few hours most were eager to go to bed. Tomorrow they would decorate. Julia had never been more excited in her life. This was a storybook Christmas.

As soon as the last guest left the room, James grabbed Julia's hand and walked her to the library.

The clock unhurriedly chimed midnight.

James waved her to sit down while he poured two sherries. He handed her a glass and held his up to her. "Robert had fun today. He told me it reminded him of the magical dreams of Christmas he had after reading about the holiday in his books."

"You were very patient and understanding. I have never seen Robert laugh so heartily."

"He told me he had lived in his books until he discovered they were really fantasy."

"What made him say that?"

"He admitted that I am not really a dragon and do not belch fire. It stands to reason if he found that untrue everything else had to follow."

"Oh, my! Such a thought for a little boy."

"We settled it between us...that dragons are magical dreams, but Christmases can be real. He liked this idea."

"Oh, James, I never realized how little fun Robert has had. I suppose, because I never had a Christmas like this. I thought snowflakes that fell from the sky were only that, but it isn't only snow, it's a heavenly spirit that awakens us. It is like being placed in a glass ball of happiness, shaken awake to watch the snow slowly fall to the ground in a magical woods filled with the aroma of pine, bright red berries and laughter."

"What were Christmases like when you were a child?"

"Mama and Father read stories about the Christ child and sometimes about German or Italian traditions. Father was an only child. His one male cousin who inherited the title always ran wild and reckless. Mama had a few relatives, like aunt that married your father. None as prosperous as my grandfather though. Needless to say we three spent Christmas together without relatives or friends. Father generally allowed most of the servants to return to their homes for the holiday. That was so many years ago, I'm surprised I remember."

"Papa didn't celebrate any more than that, I suppose."

"The servants did see that Robert and I had a Yule log and your tenants gave us presents. We went to church and everyone laughed and wished each other a merry Christmas. It seemed exciting to me for I never knew that much before."

"You and Robert are easy to please. I promise to see that all Christmases will be like this for you and Robert."

"Thank you, James."

"Robert will be with us all day tomorrow."

"I wonder who will be most pleased, Miss Harper or Robert?"

James laughed. "He must have given her a bad time waiting for the sleds to arrive."

"What took you so long to get started?"

"Polishing the runners on the sleighs, and I had to get old Jeffery from Winnie's stable to help with a mare. She delivered a fine foal this morning."

Julia's eyebrows lifted. "Glory's baby came early?"

"I didn't know you kept track of the horses in the stables."

"I often exercise the mares." Julia admitted.

"Of course, I should have guessed."

"Why didn't Frank tell me?"

"I'm earl now," James reminded her.

"I did not mean..."

"I'm teasing you, Julia." James chuckled. "Frank and the stable boys have been sworn to keep the arrival secret. I want Robert to meet the colt on Christmas day. Frank thinks it would be good for Robert to raise and train his own foal."

Tears welled in her eyes. "I remember the first foal I raised all by myself. Old Judd, who felt I must be taught to ride properly, also taught me to raise a foal. Those were some of the happiest days of my life. Robert will love your gift."

"Tomorrow we decorate the house. You had better get to sleep early." James squeezed her arm and led her out of the library. "Goodnight, Julia."

Before Julia could turn around James had disappeared as quickly and easily as the Old Earl had in his veil of mist.

CHAPTER 16

The next morning, before Julia entered the small dining room, Ellis pulled her aside. "I believe the Old Earl kept decorations in the attic. Would you like for me to look for them?"

"That won't be necessary. Keven promised to go to the attic with me. I understand the Old Earl kept them in a trunk. You can send up a couple of strong backs to lug them down."

"I'll send a man along in a few minutes. If I remember right the Old Earl brought them down by himself. James' mother liked decorating."

"I'm sure I'll find it pleasant. Thank you, Ellis." Julia grew anxious to get to the attic. Now she was certain there would be a trunk.

As soon as they finished breakfast, Keven accompanied her up the steep steps to the attic.

"A clever man planned this house. I'm intrigued by the width of the stairwell. You could carry a bed up to the attic. The stairs at Wattor are so narrow, one of my ancestors had a hole cut in the ceiling and everything of any size is pulled up by ropes."

"Look! Everything is labeled. Look at these trunks. Female clothing 1750. They have dated clothing. We are looking for a trunk with Christmas carved on top."

They walked among gilded chairs, spindly-legged tables, and finally found the trunk.

Keven elevated it. "Not too heavy. It looks as though a young lad carved it."

"The Old Earl carved it when a boy." When Keven raised his brows, she added, "That is what I heard."

"For a second, I thought you would claim you heard it from Old Earl. If Ellis told you, it's true."

Julia merely smiled. Does Keven read minds?

A servant brought the trunk downstairs. Julia unlocked and lifted the lid. As she unwrapped each clear crystal ball and each tinkling bell, everyone exclaimed over the beautiful delicate ornaments.

Ellis whispered that they were the Old Earl's favorite Christmas decorations. And Julia caught Keven's knowing smile.

Julia preferred to believe the Old Earl truly a ghost, even if, in reality, he was a clever old servant who knew how to use smoke, mirrors and magic. She planned to personally tie the ornaments to the boughs of evergreen that lined the banisters and the mantels in the dining room, drawing room, library and the servants' eating room.

James carried the ornaments and Robert carried the velvet ribbon and they left the others to follow Aunt Shredda. When the guests gathered around the gaming table, they began to weave the evergreen boughs into basket shapes that would be filled with apples and tasseled with mistletoe under Aunt Shredda's supervision.

When Ginny finished a basket, Winnie insisted on her choosing a favorite spot for him to nail the beautiful labor of love. Gabby and Keven helped Margaret and Jane fill their baskets with apples and hang them. Glen helped Becca tie on the mistletoe.

When they returned to the table to continue making baskets and wreaths, Aunt Shredda asked, "What is keeping James and Julia?"

Keven laughed. "Lady Loretta, you realize they are strong-willed and filled with childhood memories. In other words every crystal ball and every bell is discussed to determine its proper position on the mantel in regard to their vague recollections of the past. I even heard Robert tell how they were arranged in his picture books, and the wishes of Robert tugs on Julia and James' hearts."

"Oh, dear, I do hope they are not too particular about the baskets."

"I would not worry, Lady Loretta, for it gives us all pleasure to watch their mating dance."

Ginny's mouth gaped open. "I did not know of their attraction."

"Sometimes I wonder if they know," Keven said in a remotely disappointed voice.

Aunt Shredda smiled. "Tsk, tsk, who will help put up the wreaths and these other baskets?"

Every man picked up one or the other and selected a woman to accompany him. Aunt Shredda sat back and listened to the chatter and teasing among the guests, but when her ear caught the voices of James, Julia and Robert, she sighed with pleasure.

"James, it is too near the edge and might be bumped. I would hate a glass ball to break." Julia insisted.

"They aren't that valuable."

"They belonged to the Old Earl," Julia insisted.

"James, can't you hang it too high for anyone to touch and still be able to catch the candlelight? I like the colors that shine on the wall." Robert pleaded with his guardian.

"You're right, Robert. We can all be pleased. See, Julia, it just takes a bit of time to find the right place."

Julia chuckled. "And Robert's good advice."

"You had better watch your tongue. Do you want a spoiled boy on our hands to raise until maybe he is thirty?"

Robert giggled. "The bells belonged to the Old Earl. Where did he hang them, James?"

"Out of my reach."

"Let us try to hang them where they can be seen by everyone. A reminder of the last Christmas Ball," Julia said with a sigh of satisfaction.

James smiled. "How about stringing them in places the breezes will reach and we will hear them chime."

"Great!" Robert shouted.

"Better get Ellis and a few footmen to help." James said.

Robert jumped up and down. "I'll go get Ellis."

"Julia you had better string two or three bells on a velvet ribbon before they arrive."

"Get down from that ladder and help." Julia teased.

James chuckled as he leaped to the floor. "You are a demanding lady."

Less than an hour later after all the decorations were done, Gabby tapped Robert on the shoulder, "How about you and Julia going for a walk with me?"

Robert giggled, "It sounds like fun. Let's go get our coats."

"Julia! Robert! You can't go now," James shouted. "You forgot we are serving supper early tonight. Gabby can find someone else."

Robert looked startled but grabbed Julia's hand. "We can go tomorrow."

Julia smiled at the little boy and followed him upstairs. He really loved James and seemed in tune with him. Although why James thought they needed to rest seemed outrageous, but nothing could make her sad today. Hawkthorn looked beautiful.

Supper was served early to allow Robert a chance to join in the festivities. The aroma of pine filled the dining room. The room mellowed and glowed in the candlelight. After the last course was served, Ellis brought in the hot cider and chocolate. The men relinquished their port. Everyone sat around the table raising their cups in good cheer.

They sang carols and told ghost stories which Julia realized seemed much too mild to Robert, a boy who played with a ghost.

After an hour, Julia took Robert up to the nursery, read him a story while he readied himself for her to tuck in. Suddenly she realized James stood quietly in the room. He walked over and kissed his brother's cheek, "Goodnight, Robert."

"Will I get to attend the ball?" Robert asked.

"Only for a while, and only from the stairs behind the potted palm tree."

"Thank you, James. Good night."

Julia leaned over and kissed the boy. "Good night, Robert,"

"Good night, Julia. Did you hear James' promise."

"Yes, I did, my dear."

"You make sure he keeps his promise," Robert pleaded.

"He will keep his promise."

The boy's eyes closed and sleep claimed him.

James took her hand and led her down the stairs. "Aunt Shredda has planned that we dance a few waltzes. May I claim the first one?"

The servants had hastily lit all the candles on the large candelabra in the drawing room. The crystal balls, nestled in the evergreen boughs, shot rainbows around the room and the bells tinkled with the slightest movement of air.

The festive room filled with the scent of apples and pine. One basket of mistletoe hung at the French door that led to the garden room. They removed the rug from the center and arranged a small area for the pianist and violinist hired for the evening.

Following dinner, James insisted they all have a glass of champagne in the drawing room. He led Aunt Shredda and Julia to the room with the guests following. When he opened the double doors the musicians began playing carols, and the butler, Ellis stood ready to serve each one a glass of champagne. And the peal of crystal echoed through the room when James touched his glass to Julia's and wished everyone a merry Christmas.

Breathless, Julia whispered, "James, did you plan this delightful surprise?"

He nodded.

"It's wonderful." She pointed to the windows. "Look, the snow is falling again. What a perfect Christmas!"

The music changed from carols to a waltz and James led Julia to the middle of the floor.

She waltzed, entranced by James' excitement over the Christmas gifts he'd bought for Robert. The American tin soldiers and some American Indians. And the difficulties he had getting them custom made. James seemed as anxious to give them to Robert as she imagined the boy would be to receive them.

Gabby then took her hand and they waltzed. "Want to tell me what has made you so serious?"

"I'm in the best of spirits."

"Do not take James' scolding this afternoon to heart. He loves you and Robert and will always have your best interest at heart."

"I'm sure you are right."

"My, my. I've looked forward to another day of being your flirt and watching James turn green with envy. I only wanted to walk with you and Robert again, and James burst out against us all. And Keven certainly irritated him with his attention. When are you going to tell James he is the one?"

"I believe you have been misinformed. It's Keven's joke. James intends to see me married soon. He has not picked out the man. But I'm sure he has someone in mind. He has insisted I have a season with a fine dowry to find a husband."

"Keven is right. You're both fools. Frankly I feel disappointed you didn't ask me to flirt with you another day. You've managed to bring about two proposals that would have happened sooner or later. A true matchmaker. I appreciate that you haven't thrown Winnie's sisters on Keven and myself. I doubt we could withstand your elaborate schemes, and two such marriages would end in the devil's cave."

"I never tried to make anyone fall in love. I only threw together those who were already in love."

"A shame you can't do as well by yourself and James."

"You are deluding yourself."

With a chuckle, Gabby said, "I will dance at your wedding."

"If I marry."

"That won't fudge. Even if you wanted to omit me from your guest list, I still remain James' friend, and he will invite me."

"The music has stopped, and we have nothing more to say."

With a bow and wink, he said, "I and all the Hawkthorn ghosts of years past will dance at your wedding."

She forced the thought of ghosts roaming the manor from her mind when the musicians began to play another waltz.

James turned to Julia and they waltzed again. Her eyes were held hostage by his and she felt she were floating among the rainbows. When the waltz ended she felt reluctant to leave his arms, but Keven came to claim a dance.

The musicians continued to play waltzes and the second time she danced with Keven he pulled her closer and whispered into her ear, "I wish I was the man who could bring the light from your heart to your eyes."

She gasped, stunned by his words.

"Love shows, my dear, Julia. At this moment, on this dance floor, I would be on my knees begging you to marry me if you once looked at me the way you look at James."

A tremor ran through her body. Was her love for James so obvious to the others? If so, could James see her love for him, too?

"You didn't know that James loves you?" A look of shock flashed from Keven's eyes. He paused. "Dear Julia, I wonder if James knows it himself. How can such smart people..."

"You're wrong, Keven, there is nothing between James and me."

"Think about it, Julia, think about it."

The rest of the evening she laughed when others laughed and waited to escape. Keven's words raced through her mind, circling again and again. There was much to think about and sort out in her life. Falling in love with James had set her body on fire and left her soul without honor. She had tricked an honorable man when she climbed into bed with him. James probably never was a scoundrel. She did not deserve his love or sympathy. There was nothing left but to confess her deceit, and live with the consequences.

James waited impatiently for Julia in the library. Something wonderful had happened to him today. Almost magical among the crystal balls and tinkling bells he had found some sort of inner knowledge as though for the first time. He had discovered deep within himself something more important than Hawkthorn to him. He felt unsure how to share it with her. He had fallen in love with Julia and Robert. They were a family. A happy family. He didn't know when it had happened, but he knew he had never felt so lighthearted before.

He must let her know he wants a real marriage based on love. He would ask her to marry him. What if she refused him? He could not bear that. Yet he loved her enough that anything she wanted no matter how his heart bled, he would help her attain. Robert and he could convince her of their love; she could not refuse.

He should kiss Aunt Shredda for insisting he have a wedding dress made for Julia. The dress arrived today. Should he give her the sapphire ring he had bought for her Christmas present as an engagement ring? Had he even then known he was in love? Is that why he chose it for her? He could hardly wait to see Julia's eyes light up with pleasure.

The knocking on the door startled James. "Come in."

The door opened, Ellis walked over to James and presented the silver dish with an envelope on it. "From Lady Julia."

James grabbed the envelope and opened it.

Dear James,

I'm too tired to meet you tonight. We will go for the Yule log tomorrow as soon as everyone has stirred the pudding. Cook insists we do that first and I am forced to agree with her.

Have a good night's sleep.

As ever, Julia

James looked up at Ellis.

"Louise reported Lady Julia seemed unusually tired. She took her up a drink of warm milk and tucked her into bed. It was a long day, my lord."

James smiled. "You need not worry. I am not angry with Julia. I couldn't bear to have her sick."

"Just as you should feel, my lord."

Though disappointed, James chuckled. How many servants did the chit have under her thumb? Is it good that a man knows ahead of time that his own servants love and protect his bride-to-be more than they do their master? Julia, Julia, you are the love of Hawkthorn. Especially the Earl of Hawkthorn.

And she must marry him or disappoint all of Hawkthorn, Robert and his dear imaginary friend, the Old Earl.

The afternoon sun glistened on last night's freshly fallen snow. Even the frightening maze looked harmless with its evergreen bushes snow-covered.

While most of the group chose to ride in a sleigh, Julia, eager to escape James, held Robert's hand and allowed him to excitedly pull her through the snow. In the woods, the snow scarcely covered the ground and the gentle wind whistled through the trees. Clumps of snow plunged from the trees to the ground unexpectedly, delighting Robert. Ten feet away a frosty haze rose from the ground, cutting visibility and Robert's enthusiasm became boundless.

Gabby quickly caught up with Julia and took Robert's right hand. "I think you need a little help with such a strong boy."

Robert looked up into Gabby's eyes. "Sir, I didn't pull her."

"Of course not! It appeared more like dragging."

Julia laughed and Robert, quick to catch an adult's nuance, relaxed.

"Julia likes to linger on a walk, but races only on a horse. I like to run about more than girls."

"'Tis the bane of the male species to endure female wiles. Do you race your horse?"

"I don't have Julia's bottom."

This brought a smile to Gabby's face, but his voice remained serious.

"Practice and time will bring that about."

"James told me I would become a fine horseman."

"I'm sure you will, Robert. Have you ever chosen a Yule log before?"

"Martin scouts out Yule logs all year long." Julia answered for Robert. "I suspect he has hinted to James exactly where the best one is."

Gabby pointedly looked at Robert. "Perhaps we might beat him to it. James has gone for the old wooden sled and will be far behind us."

"We do not have enough head start on him. James is quicker than everyone," Robert said with conviction.

Gabby could not restrain his laughter. "An older brother holds a bit of greatness in his sibling's heart."

Julia, knowing Robert did not understand, said, "Robert loves James and James loves Robert. It stands to reason they know each other's habits."

With a wink to Julia, Gabby bent down and whispered into Robert's ear, "You are lucky to have a brother like James."

Robert smiled and ran ahead of them to a fallen tree and sat on the trunk with a proud smirk on his face. "This is my choice," he shouted in a voice much like James.

"The trunk is the right size," Gabby declared. He walked around the downed tree with a frown and then a nod. "I'll whistle to the others. It seems a good choice to me."

James appeared with the sleigh bells echoing in the woods. "A perfect Yule log. Did you find it, Robert?"

Jumping up and down in the snow, Robert shouted, "I did! I did! I found it myself!"

Julia stepped back to watch James hug Robert and sing his praise for all to hear. It seemed like a bit of magic cast a spell out in the woods and bound the two half brothers. Robert and James were happy together. Julia looked into the misty backdrop searching for the blue sky beyond the brothers. Robert no longer needed her; he had James.

Winnie, Glen and Keven set to sawing off the limbs. James, Gabby and Robert took the sleigh back to the stable to get a hefty horse and a few stable hands to haul the log back to the manor.

In a short time the snow began to fall thicker, so thick at times, it hid the sun and darkened the sky. James returned with extra lanterns and opened the metal grating to let light spill among the trees.

Finally James had the log secured by rope and attached to a team of horses. Two stable hands led the team back to the manor. The other stable boys picked up the sawed off branches to take to the barn.

Following the two horses, Julia, with a lantern in her hand, lit the way for Robert who had hitched a ride on Gabby's back. Julia led them off into various patterns allowing the other sleighs to pass them by.

When Julia arrived at the manor, James stood waiting. He quickly lifted Robert to the ground and handed him to Miss Harper who rushed Robert to the nursery. He turned to Julia. "You had better go to your room, a hot bath is waiting for you. Being drenched is not good." Then James turned to Gabby. "How did Julia and Robert talk you into walking back?"

"I'm not sure. I think they desired me to join them in listening to you all sing Christmas carols.

"Gabby, I heard your deep voice singing!"

"I listened, too," Gabby retorted in a lighthearted manner.

"Julia, get up to your room!" James' voice seemed harsh.

Angry at his tone of voice she bit her tongue and turned toward the stairs, but her ears did not miss James' remark to Gabby. "Julia and Robert seem to delight in worrying me. You should not have encouraged their walking during a snow storm."

"A few snow flakes, not a storm. Come now, James. They are young, and you don't seem to find it necessary to take such care of yourself."

Julia smiled at Gabby's defense, and raced up the stairs forgetting her anger, remembering only that she must talk to Robert. And soon!

CHAPTER 17

Where had Julia's good sense gone? Aunt Shredda wanted her to flirt and entice James into marriage. Did she believe James deserved to be tricked? Truthfully, the dear old lady never suggested compromise. Julia had only herself to blame. Aunt Shredda let Julia believe she would save Robert from being shoved away from Hawkthorn. Did she even invent a ghost to help her conscience? Has she no honor? How could she have purposely compromised James and still play the innocent? She cannot marry a man because others believed he compromised her. Did she judge James as she equated all men? She respected her father's brain, but not his weakness for ladies of the night. She respected her step-uncle for his intelligence and faithfulness to her aunt, but not for his neglect of Hawkthorn. Julia never knew anyone like James, a man of his word with the respect of his peers, and love for Robert, his half-brother. How dare she marry him, to stay here with Robert?

She had only a few more days to snatch a bit of pleasure in James' company before leaving. How will she ever bear to see him married with children? And Robert growing in his likeness. How could anyone keep from falling in love with James? She could not deny him a chance of happiness with someone he loved. It had been so easy, such a wonderful plan. He loved no one. No, he loved Robert. And now she loved them both. She must not cry.

All night she tossed and turned and thought of nothing but Keven and his implications. If only they were true. Even a blind man would realize James had not changed. Poor James, spending his time searching for a man to please her. Never wanting to hurt her. Never complaining about being compromised. A loving person like James needed to marry someone he loved, not spend his life doing his duty. You're wrong, Aunt Shredda. James didn't need a wife to save him from his wild ways. Heaven knows if he ever had a wild day. Had Aunt Shredda dreamed it all hoping to create a James more like those heroes in the gothic novels? He takes his responsibility seriously. He needs someone he loves with all his heart to make him happy.

After breakfast Julia hurried to the nursery. She had promised Robert to wrap his Christmas gifts. "Robert, we need to prepare...as soon as you finish breakfast. Don't gulp your food down."

Robert with his mouth stuffed, smiled. Miss Harper put away his books and soldiers before she left the room.

Julia reached out for the crystal dragon. Robert had chosen the gift to show James his love. It would take so little to shatter it into hundreds of slivers and it could never be restored. James had that power over her heart. She set the dragon on the shelf then slowly drew her hand away. Tomorrow night the great ball, the next night Christmas Eve. How could she ever explain to sweet, trusting Robert that she must leave the manor? Against her own logic and against her own will she had fallen in love with James. She was aware of her feelings for him, from the first time she had kissed him. How long had Keven and the others recognized it?

"Julia, why aren't you listening to me? You said we had to prepare. Prepare for what?"

"Robert," she tried to inspire a morsel of courage to her heart. "I'm not able to go through with the marriage."

He stared at her. Her heart raced with trepidation. "You promised."

"Have I ever broken a promise before?" Her eyes searched his for compassion.

"He isn't a dragon!" His hair fell over his eyes just like James' did when he shook his head. "Why, Julia?" Robert persisted.

She tried to penetrate the depths of understanding in the darkened eyes of this six- year old boy. "I thought James deserved no more than an arranged marriage. I believed he had no respect for women. I expected him to leave Hawkthorn to live an unsavory life in London. I thought him all sorts of things. I knew nothing about love in marriage. Robert, I only wanted you to be happy. He will teach you to be a good and trustworthy man. I tried not to fall in love with Jameson. I tried not to see his good qualities. And yet, I have grown to love him so much. I cannot bear to trick him into a marriage he never wanted. I've been dishonest with him. He does not deserve that." With a deep breath she took Robert's hand and held it to her lips. Tears trickled down her cheeks.

Robert trembled, frightened. "You said it didn't matter about love. It's an arranged marriage. I can keep a secret. James will never know."

"You must keep it a secret." She sighed and pulled the child closer into her arms, whispering, "It didn't matter, at first. I lost my integrity. I only thought of myself, and making you happy, my darling Robert. But James will make you a man, and teach you things I do not know. Marrying me would ruin his life. He deserves to marry a woman he loves, a woman whom he chooses, who can share the joys of London and Hawkthorn with him. He loves you, Robert. He will always take care of you, and I won't marry anyone that would not allow you to spend time with me."

"You promised to stay. You promised to protect me from the Dragon!" His lip trembled, his small hands knotted into fists against her sides.

"You admitted he's not a dragon. Please understand, Robert. I found how important love can be between a man and woman. I can't tie James to me for life. He is full of happiness and love. I want him to have love, just as I want it for you."

"The Old Earl lied. James lied. And you lied." He jerked himself from her arms and ran out the door.

The loud slam forced Julia to her feet. She ran out into the garden after him. "Oh, Robert, stop!" she shouted through her tears. She saw him turn toward the maze. Blinded from her tears, unthinking, she ran into the overgrown, frightening tangle of bushes, and began to hunt for Robert. Where had he gone? She ran through the twists and turns shouting his name over and over. She trembled with fear, remembering the time she had been lost for hours in the dense shrubbery. Martin had found her and admonished her to never again go into the maze alone. Oh, God, what am I doing here? I am so frightened. God, help me find Robert.

She screamed for Robert, though she knew he considered the maze his and he knew every winding inch of it, she feared he might be hurt. Panic drove her to racing about in a fitful manner. She stumbled over twisted roots and rocks until she twisted her ankle. Unable to put her weight on her left leg she hopped around seeking a way out. She limped in random directions until she became hopelessly lost. When the clouds floated in front of the moon and darkened the sky, she feared it would soon rain or snow. At long last, she staggered to a bench, sat down and screeched at the top of her lungs for help. When no one came, she put her face in her hands and sobbed.

In her willful way of solving every problem, she had spoiled everything she touched. She had disillusioned Robert, and he ran away to heaven knows where. And she had gone and fallen in love with James, who considered her a pesky problem that needed to be married off to some young unsuspecting lord. Had she harmed Ginny and Winnie or Glen and Becca? Had she forced them to marry? Has her touch become a curse?

"Help!" The howling wind tore the cry from her throat and swallowed her scream.

No one came. A house full of guests and servants and yet no one heard her. She shivered from cold and knew she must move around to search for a way out. She rose, limped a few feet when she heard a familiar voice. She recognized the vague outline of the mist standing in front of her.

She stood still, fear racing through her blood stream, the mist coiled, tangled and bent until it formed the shape of the Old Earl smiling behind his beard.

Thank you God for sending the Old Earl. "Please, take me out of here, Sir." Her bones shook with cold. Why doesn't he answer? "Please, help me." The ghostly form faded and reappeared, but each time it spiraled closer. Julia's teeth chattered. "Help me."

The wispy haze again began to look more like the Old Earl and he pointed to a tall bush. "Come, my dear. Follow me."

"Sir, I can't just float into a bush."

"Open the door," he demanded his voice growing stronger.

She reached in, felt a knob and turned it. She heard a loud thump as the squeaky- hinged door swung in. Without any idea where she was headed, she turned sideways to squeeze between the scratchy bushes. The foggy figure led. She limped along a narrow, covered walkway, wondering where it might lead. Away from the winds that swirl in the maze, she felt warmer, yet she couldn't stop trembling with the cold. Along the side she felt a rail to hold as she descended the steep ramp. There were surprisingly few cobwebs. Above her head, the few rays of moonlight, that again hovered among the darkening sky's clouds, hazily shone through narrow windows. When she noticed a glint off the metal of a candlestick, she stopped and lit the candle. "Where are you, Sir," she called. No one answered.

With a shrug, she limped onward until she reached a bend where a stairway rose ahead of her. Favoring her weak ankle, wincing from pain, she hobbled up the stairs studying the wood paneling to her left. She must be in the hidden stairway.

After a long climb, she came to an area about four feet square with an outline of a door. The black leather handle looked worn. When she reached for the handhold, the Old Earl reappeared.

She gasped. Never before had she seen him so clearly.

He put his finger over his lips, and pointed to his ear. With his hand he motioned for her not to pull on the door strap, but to slide it a bit.

Slowly she pushed at the door and when it moved to the side she leaned against the opening. The voice of Robert's governess sounded above her heartbeat.

"My lord, Lady Julia told me she would stay with Robert and help him wrap his Christmas gifts. Lady Julia told me to pack. I'd been promised the Christmas holiday with me Mum in London."

"That is as it should be." He cleared his throat. "As you know, Robert is a headstrong boy. Because of that I've hired a male tutor to be with him after Christmas."

The governess drew in her breath sharply. "You are letting me go, my lord?"

"No." Julia could hear James shuffling papers. "Robert needs you to read to him at bedtime and see that he eats properly. I'm only lifting some of your duties. Robert is too bright not to be studying Latin and Greek earlier than usual. Your position here is secure."

"Thank you, my lord."

"We are pleased with you, Miss Harper."

"I came down to tell you that Robert is sleeping well and Lady Loretta is with him. Lady Julia arranged to have me taken to the stage coach stop in an hour.

"We need you tonight, Miss Harper. I've arranged for one of the stable men to drive you to London tomorrow morning. He's visiting his family there and will arrange to drive you back. You need not take the stagecoach. You will be home for Christmas Eve."

"Thank you, my lord. You're so kind. I'll be glad to sit with Robert all night."

"Part of the night will be enough. Tell Ellis to let me know the minute they find Julia."

"Yes, my lord." The sharp click of Miss Harper's heels echoed as she hurried down the hall.

Julia eased the door open a crack and peeked into the room.

James reached for the brandy, poured the amber liquid into a crystal snifter and turned toward the fire. "Oh, Julia, where ever did you run?" he murmured as he slumped into the chair.

She pushed open the sliding door, walked into the library and stood quietly staring at James. "What has happened to Robert?"

"Julia!" he dropped his glass with brandy on the carpeted floor. In a whiff he had her in his arms. "Are you all right?"

"Yes," she muttered.

He pulled the bell. Ellis immediately came to the door. "Lady Julia has returned. Signal the others."

"Yes my lord." Ellis quickly shut the door behind him.

Struggling to get out of James' arms, she said, "I believe we embarrassed Ellis. For propriety's sake shouldn't we open the door?"

"Kiss me," he whispered into her ear.

Just one more kiss before I leave. Just one last kiss to remember. She brought her lips within an inch of his. She could feel his warm breath, sweet with brandy, mingling with her own. Her skin on fire, her breasts throbbing, she rotated her body closer.

Within a heartbeat, she no longer thought of the Old Earl, the memory of the maze or even Robert. She had lost her bearings. Her desire for James soared.

"Open your mouth," he whispered, and she, beyond rational thought, obeyed him without question. The tip of his tongue persuaded her lips further apart, then he gently molded them to his own.

Her eyes closed, she savored the passionate emotions she scarcely believed existed within her body. Julia continued to float on a cloud after the kiss ended.

"James," she queried, confused.

His hands tangled in her hair. "Kiss me again," he repeated softly with a little more force.

Her hands spread out on his chest, but she allowed him to capture her lips. She melted into him, he released her and cupped her head with both hands, kissing her quickly and urgently.

Then the blast of the pistol echoed. Julia lurched. "A shot..." The flame in her very soul suddenly cooled and fear embodied her every pour.

"Just a signal we agreed on if you were found."

"You were searching for me?" she whispered.

He let out his breath, and laughed. "Where have you been? You nearly scared the life out of me, Julia."

"Robert ran away," she whispered.

"He ran to the brook and fell in!" He heaved a sigh. "One of the stable boys happened by and helped him out. Don't worry -- the boy is being rewarded, and Martha Martin is personally taking care of the lad. He will feast on love, warm milk and tarts. And as for Robert, if it hadn't been so cold, and I hadn't been so worried, I would have marched him back to the brook, dunked him back in right then and taught him to swim."

Julia drew in her breath and screamed, "Oh, God, is he ill?"

"Physically he is fit. He is enjoying the care, the love of the staff and Aunt Shredda. Where have you been?" James demanded.

"In the maze."

"Robert insisted you were afraid of the maze and would never go there."

"I thought Robert ran into the maze. I needed to talk to him."

James stared into her eyes. "What about?"

"Robert misunderstood...you know children, they demand impossible promises."

"He told me you planned to leave, that you decided not to marry me. Pray tell me, who you plan to marry?"

"Didn't anyone ask to marry me?" she blurted out.

"Seems they thought you were spoken for."

"I tried to attract them. I flirted. I never claimed to be engaged," she sounded almost pleading.

"They heard it from my own lips." His hair looked tousled in the candlelight. "You are not immune to my charm, Julia." His voice turned soft and alluring, "I'm not immune to your charms."

Her breathing became shallower, she needed to get control of herself. But as she studied him her pulse began to pound.

"Don't I meet with your approval?" His lips twitched with amusement.

She could feel the heat stealing into her face. "You are quite handsome, my lord."

He picked her up and tumbled her into his lap and his lips hovered over hers. She swallowed and in a raspy voice asked, "Won't the ones you signaled be returning?"

"Ellis knows we need privacy to settle our differences. No one will be allowed near this library. His hand brushed the swell of her breasts. He ignored her sharp intake of breath.

She did not struggle to free herself from his embrace. Later would be soon enough.

He very softly whispered into her mouth, "You belong to me."

"I know. I'm your ward," she murmured, closing her eyes. His hands made her body tingle. She never wanted him to stop.

"I say! You know exactly what I'm talking about." He kissed her neck and ran his finger lightly across her breast.

Her nipple hardened and she felt breathless. She meant to pull away but her arms, with minds of their own, clung to him.

Then he whispered, "I've been waiting for you all my life. I'm not what I wanted for you. But I love you with all my heart."

"You won't love me when I tell you everything."

"You have a hidden beau?"

"No. I heard a noise outside my window the night you first arrived. It frightened me. I hid behind the curtains. I promised Robert I would entice you to marry me so I could stay at Hawkthorn and raise him. Protect him from the Dragon."

"I know -- "

"I slipped into the bed just before you woke up," she interrupted. "It took me all night to get up enough nerve. I knew I had only a few minutes before Aunt Shredda would be at the door. She is a woman with habits you can set a clock by. She diluted the cocoa with laudanum, but I didn't drink it."

"I guessed..."

She pulled in her breath and continued, "The sun started shining into the room. When I heard Aunt Shredda's footsteps coming down the hall, I slipped into your bed and pulled the covers over me. I tricked you. I cannot let you believe you compromised me."

She brushed a tear from her eyes. "No one wanted to marry me. I thought someone might want me, maybe in London. I know you have a kind heart and I could not bear to force you to marry me. You should marry a lady you love and respect. Someone you have chosen yourself."

"I'm delighted to know Aunt Shredda didn't concoct the scheme. She seemed so innocent, and you were always the clever one." He kissed her neck. "I choose you. I love you, Julia, and I want you to marry me."

"Oh, James, please don't lie to me." She tried to hold back her tears, and push away.

"I'll tell you the truth." He heaved a sigh and pulled her closer. "I cannot sleep, for I want you in my bed. I cannot eat when you are not with me. I don't deny, you drive me wild. But your mind keeps me alert, and you make everyone happy. Robert loves you. Aunt Shredda adores you. The staff dote on you and protect you from everyone -- including me. The tenants believe you are an angel, and want your blessings. But the most compelling reason of all is, I cannot live without you."

A warm feeling came over her, she whispered, "I love you."

He snuggled her deeper into the security of his arms. "The vicar has seen my special license and will marry us tomorrow afternoon before the ball. A special wedding dress arrived today."

"A wedding dress?"

"Aunt Shredda thought you should have one."

"But she promised not to mention we were engaged."

"She simply reminded me you needed a wedding dress and the address of the dressmaker who had your measurements."

"How could you...without asking me?"

"You are my ward. I heard you admit that."

With her eyes half open, Julia noticed the Old Earl watching. "The Old Earl captured you for me," she whispered.

"Seems fitting the present earl not let you go," he whispered in her ear and kissed her again and again until his mouth reached her lips. The kiss grew more passionate and she more breathless. While she clung to him, he added, "Robert told me of the Old Earl. Such nonsense must come from your aunt's side."

"Perhaps the Old Earl only talks to me and Robert. He has a right to haunt the manor, but I don't need any advice from a little boy or a ghost to know my own heart."

She pulled James closer. Not taking any chances she slid one arm around his back. Her other hand pulled his head down to her lips. Never would she let James go. She winked at the Old Earl who merely nodded before he faded away in the mist.

"Oh, my Julia, I love you." James whispered in her ear.

"Forever and ever, my love."

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Table Of Contents

eBook Info

1-58749-109-5

The Hawkthorn Ghost Plays Cupid

Patty Deans

12/3/2001

Awe-Struck E-Books

Romance