Helene, page 2
“Indeed, Mr. Monroe, I was touched by your kind words,” Helene responded, concealing her exasperation with an effort and wishing that her mother had not moved away to exchange pleasantries with the Misses Goulds.
“Thank you, thank you,” Mr. Monroe said, in what he hoped was a good imitation of Beau Brummel’s voice. “One more gracious favor you must grant me, and my happiness will be complete. Would you stand up with me in the next minuet?”
“Of course, Mr. Monroe,” Helene replied, handing him her card to initial, hiding a smile as she wondered how on earth he was going to manage to dance wearing those hideous shoes.
“You are too kind, Lady Helene. Too, too kind. My indebtedness to you mounts hourly. Is there some small service I can perform that would bring a smile to your beautiful eyes? Perhaps you would like me to procure you some refreshment?”
Helene, seizing this as an excuse to rid herself of his company, accepted his offer quickly and watched with amusement as he hobbled around the dance floor.
Lady Ambel, seeing her daughter standing by herself, bustled back to her side, commenting, “I do not know what to think about the fashions that these young men sport nowadays. It all looks so uncomfortable.”
“I am sure you are right, Mama,” Helene said, her suppressed mirth bubbling out of her. “Pray watch us closely when I stand up with Mr. Monroe, and see how much pain he appears to be in.”
Just then a commanding matron advanced on Lady Ambel’s right. Dressed in an old-fashioned puce and cream, well-boned gown, she towered above everyone else.
Every time she moved, the sound of bells seemed to come from her head. Helene turned and saw to her amusement that hidden in the coiffure were dozens of tiny bells. She caught the matron’s eye and they both laughed.
“My dear Lady Ambel,” boomed Lady Ambrose, “aren’t you going to introduce me to this young charmer?” Bending slightly at the command, Lady Ambel complied. “Allow me to present my daughter Helene.”
“A charming picture you make, for sure, Helene. The sort of face age will not destroy. Not like mine, but then I enjoy being eccentric, and I can see you like my bells. Sally Jersey tells me that you are the rage, my dear, the positive rage. Enjoy your success while you can. Sample every experience available, because memories are wonderful things to hold onto. Have you visited Almack’s yet?”
“No,” Lady Ambel and Helene said in unison. “We have only been in town a sennight,” Lady Ambel continued. “I was planning to call on you in the morning, knowing that I could persuade you to act as Helen’s sponsor. Naturally I am anxious to procure a card for her.”
Helene smiled. “Yes, Almack’s is the one ‘hallowed threshold’ I want to cross. Mama has told me how much she enjoyed herself, dancing the nights away there. And I have also read of the wonderful paintings hanging in the card room. My brother goes there for one reason, the design of the dancing room. He claims it is Spencer’s best work…” Quelled by her mother’s reproving look, she broke off.
Lady Ambrose, intercepting Lady Ambel’s glance, was intrigued that any daughter of her friend could be genuinely interested in such matters. For, as fond as she was of Lady Ambel, there was no denying that she was bird-witted.
“Ah! I can see that you tolerate London because of what you can see and learn, not who you can meet,” Lady Ambrose said in an attempt to put Helene at ease. “Admirable, admirable. Come and call on me next Wednesday and I will show you Spencer’s best design: my ballroom. Almack’s is a sad imitation, pale in comparison. Meantime, I will be delighted to sponsor you and I will send a card in the morning.”
Helene stuttered her thanks, quite overcome by Lady Ambrose’s eccentric manner.
“It is my pleasure, Helene,” Lady Ambrose continued. “I need to be diverted once in a while and I have a feeling you and I will deal well together. Now, go along and enjoy yourself.” With that, she moved away, swaying to the sound of her own music.
Lady Ambel clapped her hand in delight. “Well done, Helene. You acquitted yourself marvelously. Lady Ambrose is known to be extremely difficult, but ’tis obvious that she has taken a fancy to you.” She glanced around the ballroom to see if anyone had witnessed the scene. Her gaze was caught by a distinguished-looking elderly gentleman who gave her a graceful half-bow in salutation. Her heart gave a little flutter as she acknowledged the greeting, for it came from her childhood sweetheart Sir Walter Dexter.
She cast her mind back to the times they had ridden over the Sussex Downs together, under the easy chaperonage of her groom. The dances and routs they had attended. Her life was full of fun and gaiety then. How long ago it all seemed. And how quickly things had changed. Her father losing all his money on the ’Change. Her quick courtship and marriage to the wealthy Lord Ambel. She had pleaded with her father, but deep down she had known her cries to be useless. What else could he do when he still had four more children not yet out of the nursery? She had had to make that marriage of convenience.
Of course she had been unhappy initially, but Lord Ambel had been so kind and gentle with her that as the years passed on she found herself getting more and more involved with her own family and had less and less time to think of Sir Walter. She had presented her lord with an heir within a year of their marriage and within the next ten years had presented him with seven more healthy children. No, life had not been too harsh, but somehow her heart always missed a beat every time she saw Sir Walter.
With a start she was brought back to the present by Helene’s pulling on her sleeve. “Mama,” she was whispering, “who is that gentleman standing next to Sir Walter?”
Lady Ambel, noticing for the first time Sir Walter’s companion, replied a little abruptly, “Captain Longford, my dear, a rake, a gambler, a no-good. He is only accepted in society because of his friendship with Sir Walter.” She snapped her fan closed as she finished speaking as though to indicate that the subject was closed.
Helene’s interest was piqued by her mother’s description, and she found it difficult to look away from him. He stood six feet and was dressed in a crimson velvet jacket. Falling out of his collar was the most splendid necktie Helene had ever seen. Surely, he must have spent hours tying it, she thought in awe. She raised her eyes to study his face more closely, and her heartbeat quickened. He really was quite handsome, with his raven black hair tied back loosely. He had piercing brown eyes that seemed veiled and distrustful, and eyelids that dropped in apparent boredom. His nose and mouth appeared to be in perfect proportion to the rest of his face.
“Whatever has he done, Mama, to evoke such harsh words from you?” Helene’s voice held an anxious note, for she knew that if her mother disapproved of him that strongly, there would be no way for her to become further acquainted with him.
“Nothing for you to worry your pretty head about. Just accept my word that he is not someone I wish you to know. Oh! Look who just walked in,” she continued hurriedly, “Mr. Burton. How handsome he looks. I am so glad I persuaded you to wear his posy tonight.”
Helene, not hearing what her mother said, glanced over to Captain Longford again. It was at that moment that he chose to look up. He caught her glance and smiled. Turning to Sir Walter, he asked who the blushing, fair-haired female was next to Lady Ambel.
“Come right on over, dear boy, and I will introduce you. She is the oldest daughter. First season though, very green. A bit out of your league. My godchild you know. Known Lady Ambel all my life. Grew up together. Great woman. You met Ambel last week at Forsythe’s. Crack shot…crack shot. Good man. Took five thousand from me last month.”
Lady Ambel, following the direction of her daughter’s gaze, watched the approach of Sir Walter and Captain Longford with horror. “Ah! Sir Walter, I am surprised to see you here tonight,” she said as the two gentlemen bowed before her. “I thought you would still be in the country.”
“No, no, my dear. Came back yesterday. No point rusticating when the grouse aren’t flying. Allow me to present Captain Longford, madam. Captain Longford, this is Lady Ambel and her eldest daughter, the Lady Helene.”
“Enchanted,” Captain Longford murmured, bowing deeply and showing off to perfection his well-muscled leg.
“I met your husband at Lord Forsythe’s last week, madam. How I envy his marksmanship.”
Lady Ambel’s bosom heaved in fury as she suffered his greeting and wondered how Sir Walter dared to introduce her to such a rake. Unaware of the emotion he had kindled in Lady Ambel, Captain Longford turned toward Helene. “Sir Walter tells me this is your first season. I hope you find London to your liking.”
Wishing that she could think of some witty rejoinder, all Helene was able to stammer, breathlessly, was, “Oh, yes, Captain Longford, everything is so much better than I imagined.… It’s so much more exciting than living in the country.…”
No! she cried inwardly. What a pathetic thing to say. What a peagoose I am. Struggling with her emotions, she looked up and blushed again as she saw the look of boredom descend on his handsome features. Her mind snapped and a glinting light of battle sprang into her eyes. “Actually, Captain Longford,” she continued grittily, “I find the museums quite excellent. The Elgin Marbles were a little disappointing, but I was foolish enough to be carried away with the newspaper reports on them.”
“Do I perceive a bluestocking here?” said Captain Longford languidly. “You know it is not seemly to admit knowing anything that doesn’t concern clothes, beaux, and routs. You will frighten all your admirers away!” Trembling slightly, in sudden anger at his sarcasm, she tossed her head back and glared at him haughtily. “Where I come from, Captain Longford, we do not fritter away our time. My father has always insisted that our conversation be worthwhile. His argument being that just because he is surrounded by a gaggle of women he doesn’t have to hear us honk.”
His amusement at her words was obvious as he smiled pleasantly. “Your father is renowned for his sharp tongue, and I can see that you inherit it, Lady Helene. I apologize for my impertinence.”
Relieved by his apparent change in manner, Helene said warmly, “It was indeed most unhandsome of you to roast me so, but I accept your apology.”
Lady Ambel was having difficulty in suppressing her anger at this exchange between her daughter and the notorious rake. Even the close proximity of Sir Walter did not calm her. Frantically, she tried to catch Mr. Burton’s attention, but as he appeared to be deep in conversation with Lady Jellicoe, she was forced to interrupt. “Helene, dear, Sir Walter tells me that Nicholas has decided to settle in Paris.”
“Yes, yes,” Sir Walter confirmed somberly. “I am afraid he has. His heart isn’t ready for London. Miss him, miss him a lot, but Longford here persuaded me to let him do it. Am glad now, the best thing all round probably. But no doubt about it, I will miss the lad.”
Captain Longford, smiling to himself at Lady Ambel’s carefully timed interruption, drew Helene to one side. “I have the strangest feeling that your mother disapproves of me….” His voice was quiet and teasing.
“Oh, no. Not at all, Captain,” Helene protested weakly. “I am sure she doesn’t at all. No, I mean…oh, dear, how very confusing.”
Longford laughed pleasantly, enjoying her discomfort. “That’s gratifying to know, because I was intending to call on you soon, and it would be most distressing if she refused to receive me.”
The color left Helene’s face, leaving her quite white. “We…we would be honored,” she said, wondering what on earth her mother would have to say. “Especially as you will be able to give us news on Nicholas. Do…do you know him well?”
“We have met a few times. He was a little green when he first arrived in Paris, but he has settled down now, I believe.”
Helene, her composure returning, looked at him, surprised that he had not remarked on Nicholas’ condition. Longford caught the look and as though he understood her unspoken question, continued, “He has become very adept, I assure you, Lady Helene. In fact, so much so, he has taken up painting.”
“Nicholas, painting?” Helene echoed faintly. “I can hardly imagine such a thing.”
“You obviously share his own opinion. But he shows promise, I am told.”
“How wonderful,” Helene mused. “Now, if only he would put aside the ridiculous notion that he cannot inflict himself on the lady he loves in his condition, all will be well.” She stopped herself short, surprised that she could have been so indiscreet in front of a stranger. “I…I…beg your pardon, sir,” she stammered. “My tongue quite ran away with me.”
“A refreshing change,” Captain Longford reassured her with a smile. He was genuinely amused by Helene’s brusque summing up of Nicholas’ stubbornness. “And a sentiment I heartily agree with. However, he still needs time. The adjustment has been difficult for him.”
Helene nodded, for there seemed nothing more she could say. She was surprised at his understanding and wondered again what he had done to earn the reputation of a rake. She stepped back to allow a press of people to pass and stepped into someone who was standing behind her. Turning to apologize, she saw it was David. “Oh! Hello David,” she greeted him warmly. “Have you met Captain Longford? Captain Longford, Mr. David Burton.”
“Good evening, Captain Longford. Yes, Lady Helene, we have met.” Turning his back slightly on Longford, he continued softly. “Dare I presume that those violets you are wearing are mine? Thank you for the honor…
During this conversation, Sir Walter claimed Captain Longford’s attention and they wandered off. Helene, not listening to David, overheard Longford say to Sir Walter, “Is that where the wind sits in that corner? Mr. Burton does not seem to be lively enough for the Lady Helene. Maybe I should cause a diversion.”
“No, no,” Sir Walter said hastily. “Not with my little godchild. Innocent, quite innocent. Would never do to damage her heart.”
A feeling of frustration washed over Helene. Everyone, it seemed, was trying to prevent any sort of friendship between her and the captain. She was being treated like a child, it was really too provoking.
“…and I was wondering if you would care to ride in the park with me tomorrow. I have a new pair of bays and would value your opinion of them,” David continued, oblivious to the fact that Helene’s attention was elsewhere.
Helene, suddenly aware of a silence, realized that David was waiting for a reply. Without thinking, she nodded. “Yes, that would be nice.” And then wondered why he looked so pleased.
Lady Ambel, who had witnessed the whole interchange between her daughter and Captain Longford, had been vastly relieved when Sir Walter had borne the captain away. She really must insist that he keep him away from Helene. It would never do for her to form a tendre for such a rake. Turning with a smile to David, she begged him to procure her a glass of lemonade.
“I am sorry if Captain Longford’s attentions caused you to feel ill at ease, Helene,” she said as soon as they were alone. “It won’t happen again.”
“Nonsense, Mama,” Helene said irritable. “You attach far too much importance to a few minutes’ casual conversation.”
As if she felt she had to prove to her mother that her meeting with Captain Longford had made no impression on her, she danced the night away, giving every appearance of having a wonderful time. She even stood up three times with David, and many of the dowagers seated around the ballroom whispered amongst themselves that this could prove to be the first match of the season.
Captain Longford stood on the side and did not attempt to approach Helene again. But as he watched Helene indulgently, he thought that maybe this season would not be so flat after all. She really was an exceptionally beautiful young lady. Not the least bit affected. But far more interesting was the fact that she had a mind. Yes. He would most certainly call at 42 Hans Crescent. Indeed, this season was going to be most amusing.
2
IT was well after dawn before Helene managed to fall asleep. Her mother’s words kept chasing sleep away. “He is not someone I wish you to know.… He is a rake, a gambler.”
Her own mind kept arguing back, “No, he can’t be a rake or a gambler. I know it cannot be so. If he were such a reprobate, he would have hardly helped Nicholas.” Even so, it was strange that Nicholas had not mentioned the captain in any of his letters. And what of David? It seemed impossible that until this evening, she had seriously thought of encouraging his advances. Did this sudden change of heart indicate that she was “flighty”? As much puzzled as alarmed by her behavior, she finally fell asleep, vowing that she would do her best to keep David at arm’s length until she had come to terms with her emotions.
Amy, Helene’s maid, finally woke her out of her troubled sleep by asking what she wanted to wear for her drive.
“What drive, Amy?” Helene queried sleepily.
“Why, with Mr. Burton. Lady Ambel just sent down word that I was to wake you because you had promised to go driving at eleven.”
“Oh, no,” Helene groaned. “I am not well enough. I’ll just have to cancel the appointment.”
“What is this I hear?” asked Lady Ambel as she entered her daughter’s chamber. “You are not well? Whatever is the matter, child? Do you want me to call a doctor? Dearie, dearie, I knew we should not have eaten that lobster last night. Lady Luthy’s affairs are never well catered.”
“No, Mama. I’m all right, really I am. It is just that I am tired.”
“Poor child, too many late nights and parties, I expect. I should have realized that we were overdoing it.”
“Oh, no,” Helene said quickly, for she suddenly thought that if she kept up the pretense of being tired, she would miss her meeting with Juliet for later that afternoon. “I’m not really tired. It’s just that I didn’t sleep too well—but I am fine now and if I hurry, I can still go driving with David. Amy, I will wear my new pink morning dress.”
“That’s the spirit, my child,” said Lady Ambel, secretly relieved. “A turn in the park is just what you need.” With those words she left her daughter and went in search of her husband. She finally found him in the library, going through the monthly bills. “Good morning, my dear,” she muttered faintly as she saw him frowning at the piece of paper in her hand. “I’ve come to seek your advice….”
