Member-only story
Chapter 3 of a Hidden Treasure
Revelations
Emily and Aunt Tilly were enjoying breakfast the next day when Aunt Tilly told Emily about the trip to the country the Duchess had mentioned. The duke was hosting a dinner and soirée Saturday night. Emily and Aunt Tilly spent the rest of the meal discussing preparations, then Emily rose and told Aunt Tilly She and Sophie were going to pay a call on the countess and her granddaughter that afternoon.
“Oh, Countess Clifton! I have always liked her. Her husband died several years ago leaving her a very wealthy woman. I do not believe her marriage was a love match, but adversity can make a person stronger, and she is certainly no one’s fool. She and your mother were good friends. Give her my regards.”
“I will Aunt Tilly. What will you do for the rest of the day?”
“I am going to find a very boring book and read it in a comfortable chair near the fire.”
Emily knew that meant her aunt would be taking a very long nap.
Sophie came by to pick Emily up in the ducal carriage and they rode the short distance to Countess Clifton’s house.
The London house of the countess was charming and imposing at the same time. It was elegant and looming, but the flowers blooming in the side garden softened the general appearance.
