Grace strolled in. “I received a message from Lady Montagu that she already had dinner plans. And Matt wants you to know that around nine tomorrow morning you will interview a man to manage your mine.”

“That is famous!” Things were finally happening.

* * *

John returned home through the mews and entered the house through the servants’ door. He looked in the kitchen and was pleased to see it was almost back to Beasley’s standards. Sissy had returned as well and was busy making tarts. She couldn’t be more than twenty years old, with sandy hair and freckles.

“Oh my lord.” She bobbed a curtsey. “I want to thank you for letting that Goater go. Mrs. Beasley woulda never let her in the house.”

It had not occurred to either Eleanor or him, but Sissy might be the solution to their problems “You were not here to ask, but would you like the cook’s position?”

“Me? Oh no, my lord. I’ve a dab hand with pastries and bread, but I never got the knack of joints, and fish, and alike.”

So much for that idea. He hoped Eleanor found someone soon. “In that case, I will continue looking for a new cook.”

“Thank you, my lord.” Sissy curtseyed again.

“I’ll leave you to it.” He made his way up the stairs to the hall.

“My lord.” Lumner bowed. “As you were not here, I took it upon myself to inform her ladyship that we are temporarily lacking a cook. She decided to spend a few days with Lady Lytton.”

“Thank you, Lumner.” John had not been looking forward to telling his mother about the cook she’d hired. “It is my great hope Lady Eleanor will soon find a replacement.”

“Yes, my lord. We are all quite impressed with Lady Eleanor.”

So was he. Kenilworth had not been exaggerating when he said all the Worthington females were highly skilled. But there was one area where he had the experience. The only problem was how to get her alone. “She is an extraordinary lady.” John was glad the household liked her. It would make the transition much easier. “Please bring me a tea tray. I’ll be on my terrace.”

“Yes, my lord.”

He scanned the correspondence on his desk, reminding himself again that he must find a secretary. Taking the papers with him, he lowered himself into the large leather chair. A few minutes later, his butler brought tea and biscuits. He had just finished reading the last letter when Turley was announced.

John rose and waved his friend to the other chair. “Welcome. I’m glad you are here. There is something I wish to ask you.”

Lumner brought more tea and biscuits, and John poured Turley a cup.

“Thank you.” He took a sip. “What can I do for you?”

“Will you stand up with me at my wedding?”