7,19 €
Mehr erfahren.
- Herausgeber: Allison & Busby
- Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
- Sprache: Englisch
London 1899 Gertrude Melrose is preparing for a New Year party when her brother enters her room. She knows he wants money from her and refuses at once. She loves her brother but he is in with a disreputable crowd and losing heavily at the gaming tables. He has already gambled away his inheritance and she cannot allow him to do that with hers. A few days later the Melrose family is devastated when demands are made on them to settle Edward's huge debts. It will mean the loss of their house and almost everything they own. Edward is disowned by his father and banished from their lives.
Das E-Book können Sie in Legimi-Apps oder einer beliebigen App lesen, die das folgende Format unterstützen:
Seitenzahl: 459
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2015
Ähnliche
Hold on to Your Dreams
BERYL MATTHEWS
Contents
Chapter One
London, December 1899
Sensing that she was being stared at, Gertrude Melrose glanced up from the book she was reading. When she saw her brother standing just inside the door with an expression on his face she was becoming far too familiar with, she drew in an irritated breath. ‘No, Edward!’
He leant against the door; already immaculately dressed for the New Year’s Eve party they were to attend that evening. ‘You don’t even know what I am going to ask for yet.’
‘Yes I do, and the answer is still the same. You’ve squandered grandfather’s inheritance at the gaming tables, and you cannot do the same with mine! Grandfather left me that money so that I should have a degree of independence.’
‘Oh, come on, Gertie, it’s only a loan. I’ll pay you back.’ He pushed away from the door, smiling in his most engaging way.
She wasn’t fooled. ‘Do you think I’m soft in the head, Edward? You know I’ll never see it again. I’m your sister, remember, and know you too well. Anyway, you’re forgetting something. Father has control of my money until I reach the age of twenty-one, or I marry.’
The affable, good-natured mask dropped from his face. ‘You’re twenty now and Father would let you have some of it. You only have to ask. I don’t see why you’re making such a fuss about it. Once you marry it will all go to your husband, so you might as well let me have some of it now.’
‘It most certainly will not! Father has tied it up so only I can draw on it. Even he can’t touch it without my signature as well as his. It’s a great shame they didn’t do that with yours!’ She placed the book on the table beside her and studied her brother, sadness in her eyes. She hated refusing him, but he had to see the error of his ways. ‘You’re with a disreputable crowd, and you must break away from them and stop gambling. They can afford to lose money – you can’t.’
‘I know you don’t like my friends, but it’s just high spirits, and I don’t always lose.’
‘They are not friends!’ Now she was exasperated. Why couldn’t he see them for what they were – idle wasters and good-for-nothings. ‘You’ve only ever had one true friend. And where is David these days? We haven’t seen him for ages.’
Her brother snorted in disgust. ‘He doesn’t know how to enjoy himself. We’ve asked him to join us, but he’s refused.’
‘Then he has good sense.’ She picked up her book again, hoping to end this distasteful conversation. She loved her brother, but it hurt her to see how much he had changed of late. He was only two years older than she was and they had always been close, until he got a taste for gambling.
‘What about that diamond necklace Aunt Hanna gave you? Let me have that. You never wear it.’
She slammed down the book and surged to her feet, her violet eyes wide with concern. ‘What kind of trouble are you in? It must be bad if you want to start selling my jewellery!’
‘Don’t get upset.’ His smile was back in place, trying to make light of his plight. ‘I just need a little cash to see me through until the New Year comes in. It will be 1900 – a new century, and things will change then. You’ll see.’
She sighed, not able to stay angry with him for long. ‘I do hope so.’ She reached for her purse and tipped out the money. ‘I only have one guinea, but you are welcome to that.’
‘That won’t get me far!’
‘What’s going on here?’ Their father walked into the room. ‘The entire household can hear your raised voices.’
‘I’m sorry, Father. Edward was teasing me again, and I didn’t find it amusing.’
‘And that was all?’ Sutton Melrose cast his son an enquiring glance.
‘Yes, sir.’ He gave an easy smile. ‘I keep forgetting that my sister doesn’t have a sense of humour.’
‘And what was this … teasing … about?’
‘I merely said it wouldn’t be long before she found a suitable husband.’ He bent and kissed her cheek, whispering his thanks for not giving him away. ‘I’m sorry, Gertie. I didn’t intend to upset you.’
‘I know you didn’t.’
Edward straightened up and turned to his father. ‘If you will excuse me, sir, I’ll see you at the party. Save a dance for me, Gertie,’ he called as he left them.
Her father was frowning, then his expression cleared and he smiled at her. ‘You should be ready by now, my dear.’
‘Do I have to come? You know how I dislike these affairs.’
‘We cannot always do the things we like,’ he chided gently. ‘This is not only New Year’s Eve, but also the turn of the century. The Harcourts have been kind enough to invite us, and your mother is looking forward to the evening.’
She couldn’t stop the grimace forming. ‘But the year 1900 will be there in the morning. I don’t see why we have to gather in a crowded room to watch the clock tick past midnight. And I suppose Mr Glendale will be there and I shall have to spend my time avoiding him.’
Her father chuckled. ‘Alexander has not tried to hide his admiration for you, and he’s not a man to be turned away by your snubs. It will only make him all the more determined.’
‘I don’t understand why he is set on me. He makes me uneasy.’ She gave a puzzled shrug. ‘I don’t know why I dislike him so.’
‘Perhaps you should give yourself time to get to know him better? I only want you to be happy, my dear.’
Gertrude actually shuddered at the prospect of spending time with the man. Every time she saw him, she wanted to run. And she wasn’t a coward! At least, she’d never thought she was. She studied her father thoughtfully, and then asked, ‘Are you happy, Father?’
‘That’s a difficult question to answer.’
‘Would you try, please?’
His frown deepened. ‘You have been asking questions from the moment you could speak, always searching for answers about life. I believed you would grow out of it, but you haven’t. I’ll do my best with this one, but happiness means different things to different people.’
‘I realise that, but I’d like to know what happiness means to you.’
After pausing for a moment to gather his thoughts, he began to speak. ‘I have enjoyed building up the business and seeing the quality of the furniture we make. That has been satisfying, and yes, that makes me happy. When I look at my wife, I am content. We didn’t know each other well before our marriage, but respect and affection have grown over the years. When I look at my son, I am disappointed that he has shown no sign of following me into the business. The only interest he appears to have is to enjoy himself.’ He drew in a deep breath, and a gentle smile appeared. ‘But when I look at my daughter, I am happy.’
She gazed at him with affection. He was tall, straight and still a handsome man. ‘Oh, Mother is so lucky. If I could find someone like you I would be pleased to marry.’
He laughed, a quiet rumbling sound. ‘I think we’ve paid each other enough compliments. Will you now agree to come to this tedious celebration?’
‘Ah!’ she declared triumphantly. ‘You don’t want to go either.’
‘As I’ve said many times, we can’t always do what we want to. But give me the pleasure of escorting two charming ladies to the ball.’
She rushed over, standing on tiptoe to kiss his cheek. ‘How can I refuse?’
‘Gertrude!’ Her mother bustled into the room. ‘You will make us late. Do hurry and get ready. I’ll send Annie to help you put your hair up. It looks so much more elegant that way.’
Gertrude cast her father an impish wink. His expression remained unchanged, except for a slight twitch at the corners of his mouth. Oh, how she loved him!
‘Come, Sutton.’ Florence urged her husband out of the room. ‘Leave Gertrude alone or we shall never get to the celebration. Everyone we know will be attending, and it is an honour to be invited. Edward has already left and will meet us there.’
Her mood dipped as the door closed behind her parents. She prayed her brother had not headed for the gaming tables again. She didn’t know how aware her parents were about their son’s gambling, but from the way he had been pressuring her for money of late she guessed that he must be in debt. She thought a great deal of her brother, but was not blind to his faults. On several occasions she had urged him to tell their father and ask for a loan to pay off what he owed, but he always laughed and said it wasn’t that desperate. That worried her even more, because to her way of thinking, that made him afraid to face their father because his debts were worse than he said. Of course, she just might be imagining it.
Annie arrived then and Gertrude pushed away her concerns. It was no good delaying the inevitable. She had to go to this party!
The celebration was being held at the impressive Harcourt house in Knightsbridge. They had a large ballroom and it was already full to overflowing. Gertrude only just managed to stop a groan escaping from her. How she disliked crowds.
‘Courage, my dear,’ her father said softly, slipping his hand through her arm. ‘Smile. It’s quite easy. All you have to do is turn up the corners of your mouth.’
Tipping her head back and looking up at his face, she did as he said.
‘Perfect.’
They were both laughing when Florence said, ‘I can’t see Edward. Can you, Sutton?’
‘It will be difficult to see anyone in this crowd, my dear. He’ll find us eventually. Now, let us find you a seat where you can see the room clearly, and then I’ll get you a cool drink. It’s already stifling in here and the evening has only just begun.’
‘Thank you.’ Florence smiled fondly at her husband, and then turned to her daughter. ‘You look very beautiful tonight and will be in demand. I shall expect to see you dancing.’
‘Of course. And I’ve never seen you looking more elegant. You outshine all the other ladies here. Doesn’t she, Father?’
‘Indeed. I have already told her so.’
The compliments were received with obvious pleasure. ‘This is an important occasion and we all look our best. I am proud of my family.’
‘Here we are, my dear.’ Sutton led them over to a vacant seat right by the dance floor. ‘You’ll be able to see everything from here.’
As her father made his way through the crowd in search of drinks, Gertrude noticed the large column behind her mother’s seat. It was festooned with white flowers and would make an excellent hiding place. At the first opportunity she would slide behind it and hope to remain unnoticed for part of the evening anyway. But first she must find her brother. It was usual in these large houses to set aside a room for the men to smoke in and play cards. That was probably where her brother was and would have to be dragged away.
When her father returned he had a young man with him. Gertrude smiled with genuine pleasure as he greeted her mother first, before turning to her. ‘Hello, David. How lovely to see you here.’
He bowed slightly, making a strand of fair hair fall forward. He brushed it back, his grey eyes glinting with a smile. ‘May I have the pleasure of this dance, Gertie?’
‘Of course.’
‘Have you seen Edward?’ her mother asked David. ‘He came before us, but I can’t see him anywhere.’
‘No I haven’t, but if I bump into him I’ll tell him you have arrived and are looking for him.’
Once they were dancing, she looked up at David. ‘Do you know where my brother is?’
Nodding his head and sighing deeply, David said softly, ‘He’s been here for some time and is in the card room with his disreputable companions.’
‘Gambling?’ When he nodded again she was furious. ‘The fool!’
‘I’m sorry, I’ve tried to make him come to his senses, but he won’t even speak to me now.’
‘Show me where this room is, and I’ll get him out of there.’
‘Ladies are not allowed in the card room tonight. It has been delegated as a retreat for men only.’
‘I’m not a lady! You ought to know that by now, David.’
The corners of his mouth turned up in amusement. ‘I have often thought you should have been the boy. Except you are far too lovely to be anything but a girl.’
‘Flattery won’t stop me doing what has to be done,’ she declared. ‘Now, take me to this room.’
Without protesting further, he guided her along a passage until they reached a closed door. ‘This is it, but I’d better come in with you.’
‘No!’ She touched his arm. ‘I won’t have him accusing you of interfering.’
‘I am not leaving you,’ he declared firmly.
‘Well, wait in the room opposite. If I need you, I’ll scream.’
He gazed up at the ceiling and muttered, ‘Dear Lord, Gertrude Melrose has been nothing but trouble from the moment she could toddle. What can we do with her?’
She gave him a playful push. ‘Disappear, and stop your nonsense. When have I ever been trouble?’
‘When haven’t you,’ he said, and then beat a hasty retreat to the other room.
Opening the door, she stepped inside. The room was full of smoke, and she peered through the haze. Eight tables had been set up and all were occupied. She spotted her brother on the far side of the room.
‘Ladies are not allowed in here,’ a man told her, looking up from his cards.
She ignored him and marched over to Edward, laying a hand on his shoulder. ‘There you are. Mother and Father are looking for you.’
He glanced up and scowled. ‘I’ll come when I’m ready. And you shouldn’t be in here.’
It was time for her little girl act. ‘Oh you men, always playing your silly game of cards.’
‘Get her out of here,’ one of her brother’s companions growled irritably. ‘She ought to know better than to come in here disturbing men at their cards!’
Every eye in the room was now fixed on her, but it didn’t worry her. She bent down until her mouth was level with Edward’s ear, and her fingers dug into his shoulder. ‘I’m not leaving unless you come with me. I’ll make a scene if I have to.’
‘You’ve already made one!’ he muttered, tossing down his cards and surging to his feet. ‘Excuse me, gentlemen, while I get rid of this nuisance!’
Propelling his sister from the room, he slammed the door behind them, then turned on her, absolutely furious at being disturbed. ‘What the blazes do you think you’re doing? I had a winning hand!’
‘No you didn’t. The man opposite had a Royal Flush, and that was too good for the hand you were holding.’
He stared at her in amazement. ‘How do you know about cards? I’ve never seen you playing.’
‘I read it in a book.’ She took hold of his arm. ‘Now wipe that scowl from your face and smile for Mother.’
‘You and your bloody books!’ he muttered, as they made their way back to the ballroom.
She merely smiled, satisfied that she had stopped him losing any more money. For the moment, anyway!
Chapter Two
Now was a good time to fade into the background. Her father was busy talking to a crowd of men. Her mother was sitting with her friends and content to have her son with her. Gertrude made her escape and slid behind the column, intent on staying out of the way. If she could remain unnoticed until supper was served, then the evening would be half over, and she would consider that a success.
‘Where’s your daughter?’ she heard a woman ask her mother.
‘I don’t know.’ Florence sighed. ‘I took my eyes off her for a moment and she disappeared. I dare say she has found herself a place away from the crowds. A young girl should be enjoying functions like this, but she just isn’t interested. I don’t know what we are going to do with her, Lillian. All she is concerned about are her books.’
‘Hmm. She is a clever girl.’
‘Too clever,’ her mother exclaimed. ‘I found her stretched out on the floor the other day with her grandfather’s clock in pieces. When I asked her what she was doing, do you know what she said?’
‘Do tell.’ There was a hint of laughter in Lillian’s voice.
‘She told me she wanted to see how it worked! Did you ever hear such a thing? I told her to collect all the pieces and we would send it to the clock repairer. She simply declared that she would put it back together herself.’
‘And did she?’
‘Yes, and it keeps perfect time.’
She could picture her mother shaking her head, completely at a loss to understand her daughter.
‘Men do not like clever women and Gertrude makes no attempt to hide her intelligence. It will not be easy to find a husband for her.’
‘Glendale appears to be quite interested in her,’ observed Lillian.
‘But she doesn’t like him and does her best to avoid him. I really can’t understand it. He is a man of good standing and well-respected.’
‘And wealthy.’
‘I’m afraid that doesn’t impress Gertrude. She told us that the only thing to consider is a man’s character, but she won’t even give herself a chance to get to know him.’
‘I’ve noticed she does her best to avoid him,’ Lillian said. ‘Has he declared his interest?’
‘He’s spoken to Sutton, but he made it clear we would never force our daughter to do anything she didn’t want to. Seriously though, I wish she could be more like her brother. Edward knows how to enjoy life. He’s out every evening with his friends, but Gertrude seems content with her own company.’
‘I shouldn’t worry about that. I had similar worries with my two, but they’re both married now and have settled nicely. I shall be a grandmother in another month.’
‘Congratulations. How marvellous for you, Lillian.’
‘Caught you! And you shouldn’t be eavesdropping. It’s rude.’
Gertrude jumped when someone spoke softly in her ear. ‘David! Don’t creep up on me like that. I can hardly help hearing their conversation. And how did you find me?’
‘I just looked for a suitable hiding place.’
She pulled a face. ‘You know me too well.’
‘Indeed I do, and I will not allow you to shirk your duty tonight. Your father asked me to find you and bring you out into the open. He wishes to dance with you, and so do I.’
‘Of course.’ She made to move away from the column when David placed a hand on her arm, his expression serious. ‘Has Edward said much to you about his gambling?’
‘No, but he’s asked me for money several times. I can’t give him any without going to Father, and he will want to know what I need it for. When I ask him how much he owes, he just smiles and says it isn’t much. But I’m worried. Will he talk to you, do you think?’
David’s eyes clouded with concern. ‘We have been friends since childhood, and I would help him in any way I could. I am not wealthy, as you know, but I would give him whatever money I have if it would get him out of trouble.’
‘Trouble?’ she said in alarm. ‘Do you believe his debts are large?’
‘I have no proof. He will have nothing to do with me, as you know, but he’s running with a bad crowd. They are all from immensely rich families. He can’t possibly keep up with them, and I feel he could be in deep.’ When he noticed her distress, he smiled. ‘But I’m probably wrong. It’s hard to see an old friend go astray, and I expect I’m allowing my imagination to paint a dark picture. Let’s dance and forget all about it. Edward is intelligent, and will eventually see what he’s doing and sort himself out.’
‘You’re right, of course, but let’s hope it’s soon.’ She allowed him to escort her to the dance floor. She enjoyed his company and relaxed. Because they both cared very much for Edward, it was easy to let their imaginations run riot.
When the dance ended, David escorted her back to their seats. Her father was also there now, and she smiled broadly at him, then whispered, ‘Did you find somewhere to hide as well?’
He shook his head, amused. ‘I had some business to attend to.’
‘Ah.’ The music began again, and she was about to claim her dance with her father, when she saw Mr Glendale heading for them. She didn’t even try to stifle a groan.
He gave a perfunctory bow to her parents, which irritated Gertrude. Arrogant men considered themselves superior, and it showed. Well, in her opinion, her family were the superior ones. Their comfortable lifestyle was the result of skill and honest labour, and she doubted if Mr Glendale had ever done a useful day’s work in his life. What did he have to strive for when everything he owned had been handed down from his ancestors?
‘Will you have the next dance with me, Miss Melrose?’
There was no way she could refuse, and he knew it! She saw his eyebrows rise as she scowled at him. She had been looking forward to a dance with her father.
‘You go ahead, Gertrude,’ her father said, reading her mind accurately, his eyes alight with amusement. ‘We can dance later.’
She was trapped, and would have words with her father later for not rescuing her. But for some odd reason her parents liked this man. Her mother was smiling at him with obvious pleasure.
‘Will you join us at supper, Mr Glendale?’ Florence asked.
‘I’m afraid I am already committed, Mrs Melrose, but I thank you for the invitation.’
Gertrude allowed him to lead her to the dance floor. She knew she should make polite conversation, but she couldn’t think of a thing to say, and that was not like her.
‘You dance very well,’ he said, breaking the silence. ‘And you don’t talk endlessly about nothing. That’s a refreshing and rare quality, Miss Melrose.’
She looked up then, sure his tone had a sarcastic ring to it. ‘I’m not sure if I have just been insulted?’
A slight smile touched his mouth. ‘I assure you it was meant as a compliment. So many young girls appear to have nothing in their heads except gowns and the need to find a husband.’
‘I’m interested in neither.’ She gave a parody of a smile. ‘And you appear to have successfully avoided those seeking marriage.’
‘Now I have just been insulted!’ A deep laugh rumbled through him. ‘I think we should finish our dance in silence, don’t you?’
‘By far the best thing,’ she agreed, enjoying herself now. At least he had a sense of humour and did not easily take offence. But one good quality was not enough to make her like him.
When the music ended he returned her to her parents, bowed to them and said, ‘I shall call upon you, Miss Melrose.’
Before she could answer he had melted back into the crowd, leaving her bristling with indignation. The cheek of the man! He didn’t even have the good manners to ask if he could call. I’ll make sure I’m not at home!
Supper was then served, and Gertrude was relieved when her brother joined them. At least he hadn’t returned to the card tables, but he appeared distracted. He sampled very little of the sumptuous buffet, and as soon as the music began again he was on his feet.
‘It is only an hour to midnight. I’ll join you then so we can welcome in the new century together.’
‘Of course, Edward.’ Florence smiled indulgently at her beloved son. ‘You go and enjoy yourself.’
Much to Gertrude’s relief, Mr Glendale didn’t come near her again. She danced with her father, several young men, and David twice. She almost managed to find some pleasure in the noisy evening.
On the stroke of twelve everyone cheered, clapped, and wished each other a Happy New Year. As Gertrude hugged her parents and her brother, she was overcome with a sense of foreboding. Something was telling her that there would be difficult times ahead. She was sure the new century was ushering in change for the Melrose family.
No matter how sternly she told herself to stop being so silly, the feeling would not leave her.
Chapter Three
‘Are you going out again, Gertrude?’
‘Yes, Mother. The threat of snow has passed so I thought I’d make the most of a fine day.’
‘But I heard Mr Glendale say he would call on you. He’ll be disappointed if you’re not at home.’
‘That was a week ago. He didn’t say when.’ She tried to keep the irritation she felt out of her voice but without success. ‘Am I to remain a prisoner in my own home till he decides to grace us with his presence?’
‘Don’t be sarcastic,’ her mother told her sharply. ‘I fail to understand what you have against him. He is a presentable man – many consider him handsome – he is wealthy and much in demand.’
‘I agree, but he is also arrogant and old.’
‘Old!’ Florence exclaimed. ‘Hanna told me he’s twenty-nine, and that’s the perfect age for a man to settle down with a wife and family. And he’s quite taken with you, my dear. Many girls would like to be in your position.’
‘I expect they would.’ She pulled on her gloves. ‘But there’s something about him I don’t like. He makes me uneasy and it’s a feeling I can’t dismiss.’
‘You and your feelings.’ Florence shook her head. ‘I don’t know how we managed to have such a strong-minded daughter. I can’t think who you take after.’
Gertrude grinned. ‘Aunt Hanna?’
‘Oh, good gracious! Don’t become too much like her for all our sakes.’
‘I’ll try,’ she said. ‘But I don’t know why you look so horrified when Aunt Hanna’s mentioned. You know you like Father’s sister.’
‘That just shows you what a foolish woman I am.’ She couldn’t remain serious as her daughter burst into laughter. ‘Where are you going?’
‘To the bookshop in Wandsworth.’
Florence sighed. ‘Why don’t you find a local bookshop that sells new books? You’ve no idea where those awful soiled books have been.’
‘New books are not as interesting as the second-hand ones. I can find all sorts of treasures on the shelves of Mr Partridge’s dingy old shop.’
‘You are a mystery to me.’ Her mother kissed her cheek. ‘Off you go and take a carriage both ways. Do you have enough money with you?’
‘Yes, Mother. I will only be about two hours.’
‘I’ll tell Mr Glendale that if he calls.’
A look of devilment crossed Gertrude’s face. ‘You could also tell him that I spend my time in dusty second-hand bookshops and I’m not the kind of person he should associate with.’
‘I’m sure he’d find you even more intriguing if I did,’ her mother teased.
‘Heaven forbid!’ She heard her mother laughing as she left the house.
The bell on the door jangled when Gertrude entered the shop. Instead of sounding a clear musical tone it was dreadfully out of tune. It always made her wince and wonder why on earth the shopkeeper didn’t replace it. Still, it was all part of the character of the place.
She took a deep breath. There was nothing so evocative as the smell of old books. It was like the finest perfume to her and she adored it. The usual tingle of anticipation ran through her as she wondered what she would find today.
She was completely lost in browsing when discordant voices came from behind another bookshelf.
‘’Ere. I’ve told you not to come in my shop. Clear off!’
‘I’m only looking. You’re a mean old bugger!’
The voice was female and young by the sound of it. Unable to resist the temptation to see what was going on, she walked around the shelf. The owner was glaring at a girl of around fifteen or sixteen, Gertrude guessed. She was scruffy and holding a book in her hands.
‘I wasn’t going to pinch it. I ain’t a thief.’
‘Maybe, but you ain’t got no money either. You can’t just creep in here and read the books without buying them. I’ve told you that time and time again.’
The look of longing on the young girl’s face as she put the book back on the shelf tore at Gertrude’s heart. She knew just how she was feeling.
Stepping forward, she said, ‘Hello, my name’s Gertrude. What were you reading?’
‘Er …’
‘Miss Melrose.’ The shopkeeper smiled. ‘I didn’t know you was here. Nice to see you again.’
‘Thank you, Mr Partridge. I love your shop, as I’m sure this young girl does.’ She smiled at the girl, who was standing transfixed, not taking her eyes off the posh girl in front of her. ‘Will you show me what you were interested in?’
‘Er …’ She glanced anxiously at the shopkeeper.
‘Show Miss Melrose,’ he snapped irritably.
A grubby hand snaked out and whisked a book from the shelf. It was thrust towards Gertrude. ‘I’m saving up to buy this one, but I wanted to see if it was still here. I’m afraid someone might buy it before I’ve got enough money. It’s four pence.’ She gazed at the book and sighed. ‘Takes a lot of saving, that does.’
Gertrude was absolutely astonished when she saw the title. ‘Shakespeare?’
‘What’s wrong with that?’ The girl bristled with indignation. ‘I can read proper. And I like to learn about kings and stuff.’
‘I wasn’t implying that it was above your intelligence,’ she said hastily. ‘What else do you read?’
She shrugged. ‘Anything really. I got favourites though. Dickens. I like him.’
‘So do I. Have you read anything by Jane Austen?’
She shook her head. ‘Good, is she?’
‘Very.’ Gertrude turned to Mr Partridge. ‘Do you have one of her books?’
Muttering under his breath, the owner disappeared behind a shelf.
‘What’s your name?’ Gertrude asked the girl while they waited.
‘Millie.’
At that moment the door opened cautiously. A hand reached up to stop the bell from ringing, then a face peered in. ‘Is it safe, Millie?’
‘Come in Fred. I’m talking to this lady and he won’t chuck us out yet.’
A painfully thin, gangling youth slid in. He looked slightly older than Millie and his dark eyes shone with intelligence. Sadness swept through Gertrude and she studied the two scruffy, under-nourished youngsters. They were obviously bright, but desperately poor.
‘Do you like to read as well?’ she asked him.
Fred was studying her intently. His dark eyes were taking in every inch of her elegant outfit. He nodded. ‘I don’t like the kind of stuff Millie reads, but he’s got some smashing books in here about military battles and … birds, and things like that.’ He finished in a rush, looking slightly embarrassed.
‘Go and find a couple and let me see them.’
‘Er …’ Fred gave Millie a puzzled glance.
‘Go on.’ She gave him a shove. ‘Show the lady what you like.’
At that moment the owner appeared and glared at the boy. ‘Not you as well.’ He managed a smile as he handed Gertrude Emma by Jane Austen. ‘This is the only one I’ve got at the moment.’
‘Splendid.’ When she held it out to Millie it was almost snatched out of her hand.
The first page was devoured quickly and a smile appeared on Millie’s face. ‘Cor, this looks good. I ain’t never heard of her before.’
The longing in her pale blue eyes was there again as she handed the book back to Gertrude. How terrible to be deprived of the pleasure of books because you couldn’t afford them. Gertrude handed Mr Partridge the Shakespeare book and Jane Austen. ‘Wrap these for Millie, please.’
Fred appeared clutching two books, one of which was already open. ‘Look at this, Miss. Have you ever seen anything like it?’ He was pointing at a picture of a peacock with its wings displayed in all their glory. ‘I draw from pictures and then carve them in wood, but one day I’m gonna draw the real thing. We’re gonna get out of the slums and live in the country.’
Millie nodded in agreement.
He looked Gertrude straight in the eyes. ‘We got dreams, and one day we’ll make them come true.’
‘I’m sure you will.’ There was a lump in her throat as she took both books from Fred. The other one was King Solomon’s Mines by H. Rider Haggard.
‘You got a dream? Everyone should have a dream.’
‘I’ve never thought about it, but you’re quite right,’ she replied, handing the books to the bemused owner. ‘Wrap these for Fred, please.’
‘Er …’ Millie looked worried. ‘We ain’t got no money.’
‘I know, but I have. Wait for me.’
Mr Partridge brightened up when he realised he was going to get a lucrative sale. The books were quickly wrapped and the money put in his till. He was smiling when he handed Gertrude the parcels.
She thanked him and went over to the youngsters, who were waiting by the door for her. ‘Here you are. You must tell me what you think of them the next time we meet.’
‘Gosh,’ Millie said, her eyes shining. ‘You’re a real kind lady.’
‘We won’t forget this,’ Fred told her. ‘If there’s anything we can ever do for you, you just ask.’
‘Thank you, Fred. Now, there’s a nice little teashop along the road. I’d like you to join me for some refreshments.’
Millie spluttered. ‘You mean that posh place with the blue tablecloths?’
‘Yes, that’s the one.’
‘Oh, they won’t let us in there!’
‘They will today. You’re my guests. Whatever you have will be paid for, and that makes you just as good as anyone else in there. My Aunt Hanna says you can walk in anywhere, no matter how elegant, if you have enough money in your purse.’
The girl grinned. ‘I like the sound of your aunt.’
‘She’s a very unusual woman.’
‘So are you, Miss. There ain’t many of your class who’d take notice of the likes of us.’ Fred stopped at the door of the cafe and peered in. ‘They ain’t gonna be happy about you taking us in there.’
‘They won’t object.’ Her mouth set in a firm line. ‘My mother says I’m just like my Aunt Hanna.’
That brought giggles from the youngsters and they were all smiling when they walked in.
A look of horror appeared on the face of the owner and he tried to block the entrance, but Gertrude had been in the cafe many times and spoke with authority. ‘They are my guests. We’d like a table by the window.’
It was obvious the last thing the owner wanted was to have two scruffy youngsters sitting in full view of the public. She didn’t give him a chance to object as she guided them towards a table in a prime position. As soon as they were seated, she smiled at the owner who was still hovering uncertainly. ‘We’d like a selection of sandwiches and cakes, please.’
‘Of course, Miss Melrose.’ A look of resignation crossed his face. He couldn’t refuse such a valued customer.
They were served speedily and she watched as the hungry youngsters devoured every scrap of food.
‘Ain’t you eating?’ Millie asked, as she collected up the crumbs from her plate. ‘The grub’s smashing. What was that orange stuff in the bread? I ain’t never had that before.’
‘That was salmon. Did you enjoy it?’
Millie nodded and turned to Fred. ‘What ones did you like the best?’
‘All of them,’ he said, gazing longingly at the empty plates.
Gertrude called the waitress. ‘We’ll have another pot of tea and some more cakes, please.’
‘Yes, Miss.’
The waitress was about to turn away when Gertrude touched her arm. ‘Prepare two parcels of food to take away.’
‘At once, Miss.’
Millie leant forward eagerly. ‘Could I have some of that salmon stuff? My mum would like that. I bet she ain’t never had anything like that before.’
‘Of course.’ The waitress smiled and stooped down slightly as she spoke to Millie. ‘What cake did you like the best?’
‘Chocolate!’
‘And what about the young gentleman?’
Fred looked behind to see who the waitress was talking to, and seeing no one, turned back. ‘Blimey, I ain’t never been called that before!’
Millie giggled. ‘And am I a young lady?’
‘You’re both with Miss Melrose so you must be,’ the waitress joked, giving them a sly wink. ‘Now, sir, what would you like?’
‘Everything.’ His smile couldn’t get any brighter.
Watching the exchange, Gertrude decided that she must leave an extra generous tip today. A visit to the teashop was an ordinary part of her life, but for Millie and Fred it was an exciting adventure. It brought home to her how important it was not to take the good things in life for granted.
‘Tell me about yourself, Millie,’ she said as they worked their way through another plate of cakes. The poor little things must be starving. ‘Are you still at school?’
Millie shook her head, and swallowed a mouthful of cake. ‘Wish I was. They chucked me out when I was thirteen. I’ve been working in a factory, but that’s closed now. I’m trying to get another job, but it ain’t easy.’
‘Millie’s ever so clever.’ Fred gave his friend an admiring glance. ‘You ought to see her writing. Real beautiful it is.’
‘That’s interesting. And what about you, Fred?’
‘Me? Oh I ain’t brainy like Millie, but I’m good with my hands. I like making things, and drawing of course.’
‘Fred made me a shelf to put my things on. It’s got pretty flowers on it. Carved it all himself.’
Gertrude was now more than interested. ‘Would you meet me here at the same time next week and bring a sample of your work with you? I’d love to see your writing, Millie, and something you’ve made in wood, Fred.’
They both nodded. ‘Yes, Miss.’
‘Don’t forget now. If you can’t make it for any reason leave a message with the bookshop owner.’
‘We’ll be here,’ Fred told her.
The waitress appeared and handed the youngsters a parcel each.
‘Oh, thanks!’ Their eyes were wide with excitement.
She paid the bill, and once outside said goodbye to Millie and Fred. She watched them running up the road clutching their parcels. It had been an interesting and worthwhile morning. It was only when she was on her way home that she realised she hadn’t bought a book for herself. Never mind, she’d find one next time she came.
Later that night Gertrude couldn’t sleep as every detail of her meeting with the youngsters kept running through her mind. Fred’s declaration that everyone should have a dream wouldn’t leave her thoughts. They had a dream of living in the country, away from the hardship and squalor of the slums. But what dreams did she have?
This took some thought as she considered what she hoped for in life. The most pressing desire was to see her brother stop gambling and start to do something useful with his life. And she would like to marry one day. But it would need to be a man of her choice – someone she loved and who loved her.
Turning over to try and get some sleep, she pulled a face. There didn’t seem much point in having an impossible dream, but that didn’t stop Millie and Fred. They nurtured the hope that things would be better for them in the future, and she was touched by their optimism and courage. There were many who could learn from them. She wished her brother had some of their inner strength.
Sadness swept through her as she thought about her dear brother. She would be happy to see him back to the person he used to be. That was the most important thing in her life at the moment.
Chapter Four
‘Sutton’s late tonight.’ Florence stood in front of the clock on the mantelpiece. ‘Cook will be annoyed if the dinner is spoilt.’
Edward stood up and poured himself a drink. ‘He’s only half an hour late.’
At that moment they heard the front door open and close and Gertrude smiled at her mother. ‘Here he is.’
When he came into the room they gasped in horror. One of his eyes was swollen shut, his top lip was split and he was clutching his side. Florence was the first to reach his side. ‘Oh my dear, what’s happened? Have you had an accident? Gertrude, ask one of the servants to go for the doctor.’
‘Not yet.’ Sutton walked over to his son. ‘I have made the acquaintance of some of your friends, who have persuaded me it’s time your debts were honoured.’
All the colour drained from Edward’s face. When he tried to speak, his father thrust a sheet of paper in front of him. ‘I am told that this is the amount you owe. Is it correct?’
Edward read it and could not look his father in the eyes. ‘Yes it is. I’m sorry—’
‘It is too late to be sorry! After giving me a beating to impress upon me the urgency of the matter, they have threatened to harm your sister. The full amount must be paid within a week.’
‘I’ll go and see them, Father—’
‘Don’t ever call me that again.’ Sutton spoke with quiet fury. ‘You are no longer my son. We have given you every advantage in life. I had hoped you would come into the business and take over after me, but that wasn’t good enough for you, was it? You have put your family in jeopardy and tarnished our good name.’
‘I’ll never gamble again. I promise.’ Edward was shaking, hardly able to stand upright.
‘I don’t care what you do!’ Sutton rounded on his son. ‘I’ll pay the debt in full, and that is the last thing I will ever do for you. You have an hour to pack your things and leave this house, never to set foot in it again.’ Then he turned his back on his son. ‘Go now before I give you the thrashing you deserve.’
A cry of distress came from Florence as her son left the room. ‘Oh, Sutton, please don’t do this. What is to become of him?’
‘I won’t have him under this roof. He must learn to fend for himself.’ He sat down heavily, his brow wet with perspiration.
Seeing the distress her father was in, Gertrude ran to the servants and sent one of them for the doctor, then she hurried back. She was horrified by what had just taken place, and as worried as she was for her brother, she was more concerned for her father. She hadn’t been able to catch sight of the paper, but Edward’s debt must be enormous for her father to disown his son.
Florence was holding her husband’s hand and crying uncontrollably.
Gertrude put her arms around her mother and reached out to touch her father’s shoulder. ‘I’ve sent for the doctor.’
‘Thank you, my dear. It feels as if those thugs have cracked my ribs.’
‘Sit very still.’ Gertrude moved to the other side of her father and wiped his face with her clean handkerchief. Then she asked gently, ‘How much does Edward owe?’
‘Over three thousand guineas.’
Florence gasped, and Gertrude felt as if the floor had shifted beneath her feet. How could her brother have lost so much? Had he no thought for his family?
‘We can’t find that much,’ Florence whispered, hardly able to speak. ‘All our money is tied up in the business.’
‘You must use my inheritance,’ Gertrude insisted.
‘No, my child. It would not even cover a fraction of the debt, but I’ll find the money, have no fear.’
‘I’m not afraid for myself. I expect the threat to me was to frighten you into paying the debt.’
‘Maybe, but I will not take that risk.’ He placed both hands across his ribs, obviously in great pain.
‘Where’s that doctor?’ Florence turned her whole attention to her injured husband. ‘Go and find out, Gertrude.’
Before she could reach the door it swung open and the doctor strode in. He took one look at Sutton and turned to the maid. ‘Find me a male servant. I’ll need his help. The ladies can leave.’
‘I’m staying with my husband. You do not order me around in my own home!’ Florence was determined and nothing would move her.
Gertrude spoke quietly in her father’s ear. ‘May I have your permission to see Edward before he leaves?’
He gave a slight nod.
‘Thank you. I’ll see you again when the doctor’s made you comfortable.’
As soon as she was out of the room she ran up the stairs and along the passage to her brother’s room. She burst in without knocking. Edward had his back to her and was packing a case.
‘Where will you go?’ Her voice trembled with emotion.
When he turned his face was grey, anguish etched on every feature. He appeared to be incapable of speech. She reached out to touch him but he backed away. ‘Go to David. He’ll help you.’
He shook his head and stood there, a picture of dejection. ‘How’s Father?’ he managed to say.
‘We don’t know yet. The doctor’s with him.’
‘I’m so sorry. Oh God, I’m so sorry …’ Tears tumbled down his face. ‘I’ll never gamble again for as long as I live. Somehow I’ll repay him. I swear it. Take care of Mother for me, Gertie.’
He picked up his case and walked towards the door.
‘Tell me where you’re going,’ she pleaded. ‘Aunt Hanna will take you in.’
‘I am no longer a member of this family. And that is right, for I don’t deserve to be. Goodbye.’
‘Take care of yourself,’ she whispered as he closed the door behind him.
Edward Melrose was under no illusions about the seriousness of the situation he had left his family to deal with. But no matter how bleak the outlook, he would not go to David or Hanna. He only had himself to blame. He found it unbelievable that he had allowed himself to be dragged into gambling. It had become an obsession and he hadn’t been able to stop. He must be a very weak man! His father’s words had cut him like a dagger and it had been as if a curtain had disintegrated before his eyes. He saw exactly what he had become, and that filled him with self-loathing and disgust. He hated himself. But if it took him the rest of his life, he would somehow right the terrible wrong he had done his family. Not only had he placed them in danger, but he’d also ruined them financially.
He had been walking aimlessly for about an hour when it started to rain. He was hungry and wet, and shame weighed on him, making him stumble on the wet pavement. Stopping for a moment he saw that he was in a poorer part of town. Well, that was all right. It was where he belonged now. A notice in one of the windows offering rooms caught his attention. Without hesitation he knocked on the door and went inside. It was none too clean, but it was cheap so he took a room for the night. This would give him time to rest, because tomorrow he would have to find work, and that wasn’t going to be easy. He had no skills, but he was strong and would dig ditches if he had to.
Stretching out on the bed he ignored his hunger, allowing his mind to drift back over the last year. When Charles Hayworth had drawn him into their exclusive circle he had been flattered. At first the stakes had been low, but they’d slowly increased, and by then he’d been in too deep to back out. If he did win, which wasn’t often, it was when there was little on the table. He could see it all now. He won when they allowed him to, and that meant they had been manipulating the games. Charles always sat opposite his brother, Howard, so they could make eye contact. He recalled the coughs, fingers moving on the table, and other subtle signals. They must be cheats to keep winning like they did, but it would be impossible to prove. No one would be brave enough to speak out against them.
Edward clenched his hands into tight fists. He had allowed their flattery and friendly attitude to blind him to what was really happening. What a weak, pathetic man he was!
But no more. One day he would redeem himself in the eyes of his family. And that wasn’t an idle dream. From now on it would be the focus of his life.
Gertrude stayed in her brother’s room while the doctor carried out his examination and they moved her father into his bedroom. It was some time before her mother appeared in the doorway. Florence had aged in that short time.
‘Is Father all right?’
‘The doctor says he has cracked ribs and is badly bruised, but he will be fine after a long rest.’ Her mother gazed around the empty room, silent tears running down her cheeks. ‘I never got the chance to say goodbye. What is to become of him, Gertrude?’
‘I advised him to go to David or Aunt Hanna.’
‘I hope he does. I’m so frightened for him. I’ve begged your father to reconsider, but he won’t hear of it.’
She put her arms around her mother, trying to comfort, but she was just as distraught. ‘I’ll find him so we can keep an eye on him.’
‘Thank you, my dear. I know your father has disowned him, and in the circumstances no one could blame him, but Edward is my son. I gave birth to him and cannot turn my back on him.’
‘I know.’ Gertrude’s eyes were brimming with tears, but she fought them back. This terrible disaster was upon them and it had to be faced. She had to be brave for both her parents’ sakes. ‘May I see Father now?’
Florence nodded. ‘Don’t stay too long. He’s very tired.’
Her father was propped up on a heap of pillows to keep him in a comfortable position. His eyes were closed and deep lines of pain were etched on his face. She knew the pain wasn’t only coming from his injuries. Disowning his son would have been the hardest thing he’d ever had to do. Walking to the bed, she knelt down and took his hand in hers. Not wanting to disturb him, she remained silent.
After a while he turned his head and opened his eyes. ‘Did you know he was gambling?’ he asked.
‘Yes,’ she had to admit. ‘He has been asking me for money just lately, but I had no idea things were so bad. Honestly.’
‘You should have told me.’
‘I know that now, and I’m sorry.’ The tears of remorse would not stop now and they poured down her face.
‘Don’t cry, my dear. I’ll pay the debt. I won’t let anything happen to you.’
‘I am not concerned for myself. I am sad for all of us. You have been brutally attacked, Edward is lost to us, and he is now alone in the world. It is hard to bear.’
‘The future for us will be hard. I can’t find that kind of money without making drastic changes to our lives. I want you to promise me something.’
‘Anything.’
‘Support and comfort your mother. There are dark days ahead of us.’ His eyes closed and he gently squeezed her hand. ‘Leave me now. I must sleep, for there is much to do tomorrow.’
She stood up. ‘I’ll help you. Just tell me what you want me to do.’
He shook his head. ‘I don’t want you or your mother involved in this unpleasant business. I will do what has to be done. Don’t hate me for the actions I’m forced to take.’
‘We’d never do that,’ she said forcefully. ‘You have our support.’
‘Thank you. That is a comfort.’
As she left the room, Gertrude knew their lives were about to change. Only her father knew exactly what those changes would be, but the carefree, happy life she had known was no more.
She found her mother downstairs in the sitting room. ‘He’s asleep now,’ she told her.
‘Good.’ Florence looked exhausted. ‘I want you to go and stay with Hanna for a while.’
‘No, Mother!’ She wasn’t going to be sent away. She would not let them face this alone. ‘Father said he will pay the debt. They won’t carry out their threat to harm me. I’m quite safe.’
Her mother sighed deeply. ‘I wish it were that easy. Have you given any thought to how we are to raise such a large amount? I am not a fool. We are ruined. But I will not see Sutton lose the business. It has been in his family for three generations.’
