He laughed raggedly. “We are definitely getting married. The question is, when? I really don’t think it would be a good idea to make our vows anytime soon. No, don’t look at me like that, listen to me a moment, Margaret. It’s what you’ve already acknowledged, in essence. We’ve both got lives we’re happy with, but which are very different. I’ve got my work as an MP and the Achnacarry estate to care for; you’ve got your writing and charity work in Edinburgh.”

“We can make it work, though, can’t we?”

“Of course we will, and it will be worth it.” He kissed her tenderly. “But the adjustments required will be significant. Simply trying to decide where we will live and how, for example. Then what if we are blessed with children—which I dearly hope we will be? It may be selfish, but after waiting so long I’d like to have you to myself for a while first. What do you think?”

She forced herself to consider, though she already knew what he said made perfect sense. “How long do you think we should wait?”

“A year? Maybe even two? Time for you to establish yourself, to build this Edinburgh Children’s Sanctuary you’re so set on, and time for me to decide if I’ll continue in politics.”

“I know you’re right, but it seems a very long time.” She was still struggling to get her breathing under control, her body still heated and clamouring for something other than rational, logical discussion.

“When you’re sitting next to me like this, it seems an impossibly long time,” Donald agreed. “To be perfectly honest, I don’t want to wait another minute, but I’m trying to be sensible.”

As a wicked idea popped into her head, Margaret once more edged closer to him. “We’ll wait two years for the ceremony, and we’ll decide how we’ll live and where, and all the other practical details in a sensible and considered manner.” She kissed him. “But in the meantime, provided we’re careful . . .”

“Are you suggesting what I think you are?”

“Are you shocked?”

Donald laughed, sweeping her up into his arms and kissing her deeply. “I’m delighted,” he said, making for the intimacy of the cabin.

The Scotsman, Friday, 10 December 1875

The Scotsman, Friday, 10 December 1875

LOCAL BENEFACTRESS WEDS HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN

Yesterday in St. Mary’s Church, Dalkeith, Lady Margaret Elizabeth Montagu Douglas Scott was married to Donald Cameron, MP, 24th Lochiel of Clan Cameron. The ceremony was a private affair, witnessed by a small gathering of close family which included the bride’s parents, the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch; and her eldest sister, Lady Victoria Kerr, Marchioness of Lothian. Lady Mary Montagu Douglas Scott served as the chief bridesmaid, while the bride’s close friend, Her Royal Highness Princess Louise, was her matron of honour.