How to Claim a Governess’s Heart - Bridget Barton Page 0,26

words what the last few weeks had been like for him. She now knew more than ever that despite it being a strange situation, Lieutenant Smelting had done the right thing when he gave his most precious treasure to Lord John Hughan.

Chapter 9

“Mrs. Smith, I want this to be the finest Christmas this house has ever seen,” Lord John explained.

He had invited the housekeeper to join him in his office after breakfast to discuss the matter in hushed tones.

“I have to admit, I am excited to have a little one here for Christmas again. It hasn’t been the same since your litter sister was last here. There is still a costume saved in the attic space for Father Christmas,” Mrs. Smith replied, bursting with excitement. “But what is all this about?” She waved to the room they were seated in.

“Well, I want it to be a bit of a surprise, both for Betsy and Miss Thatcher.”

“Miss Thatcher?”

“She told me that one of her only memories of her own family was of a Christmas Day with her parents before they passed away. It was also one of the few joyful holidays she has had in her life. I thought it might be nice to have a big celebration. It would be good for both of them. Betsy will need the added distractions to keep her mind off the fact that her parents are gone, and I think Miss Thatcher deserves to have a little joy in her life as well.

“I thought perhaps we could have a big dinner here at the house, and a ball just before the new year.”

“What about your manuscript? Certainly, you’ll have to start calling on acquaintances and making a bigger presence here in town if you expect people to come to a dinner party or a ball.”

“I have considered that. I have already made significant strides in my work. Not as far as I wished,” Lord John admitted, “but I think I must begin to balance my own personal desires with the needs of those in my charge. I know Betsy will need this cheer of spirits to keep her from thinking of her loss.

“My presence in London is already known by some close friends to the family. I have already received several invitations that I have politely refused. I will just have to be more aware when I am invited to large parties to make my connections with as few outings as possible.

“I also hoped that you would be willing to take on the large task of getting the house and preparations ready for these two events. I know it is a lot to ask.”

“I would not mind at all,” Mrs. Smith said with a light in her eyes. I hope you won't object to Betsy helping with the decorating and trimming of the tree? I know you want this to be a surprise. But I find the best memories of the holiday are made in the making of it.”

“No, I think that is a splendid idea.”

Both paused as they heard the laughter filter from the other room quickly shushed by Miss Thatcher.

“Betsy, quiet please. We must not disturb Lord John,” Miss Thatcher's kind voice wafted in.

“I think Miss Thatcher will be happy for the new activities to keep Betsy entertained in the house, what without a nursery and all,” Mrs. Smith commented.

“I really haven’t minded their presence here at all,” Lord John retorted quickly.

“Perhaps you should assure her of that fact. I know she does worry that they are too much of a distraction to you.”

Lord John crossed his fingers and rested them on the desk as he nodded in understanding. Since winter had started to settle in on London, Miss Thatcher had no longer been able to take Betsy to the park to relieve her natural energy.

He had explained to Miss Thatcher that he was happy to keep her and Betsy in the home provided it didn’t impede his work. At the same time, he didn’t stop looking into other boarding schools near enough and in his price range. He felt it necessary to keep all of his options open if necessary, until the bet with his brother was finished. As of yet, he had little desire to remove either party from his home.

“Will the duke and your mother be coming for Christmas as well?” Mrs. Smith asked.

She had never voiced a preference or opinion on the duke. Of course, he was her employer as owner of the townhouse, and no matter her