Marriage settlement agreements set out a lady’s financial future, both during the marriage and after her husband’s death. They also provided funds for children other than the heir, such as dowries for any girls born of the union and younger sons. Some of you might ask why Matt would have negotiated with Phinn’s brother. The reason is that an heir or a younger son who did not have his own money was dependent on the title holder for funds. Phinn did have independent means, but he also received money from the marquisate. Those of you who read Desiring Lady Caro might remember that Huntley and Caro’s fathers argued over the agreements.

“Grutch” means “grouse,” a word that was not used until the twentieth century.

Horripilation—I fell in love with this word. It is the proper term for gooseflesh, the latter being a vulgar term at this time.

Sword parasols did exist. In most of them, the sword had to be removed from the parasol, which I think is awkward. However, the technology did exist for blades to be thrust out and retracted. Therefore, Walter’s idea could have been used at the time.

Regency weddings were nothing like modern ones. In larger cities, the wedding was attended only by close family. There was no kissing after the bride and groom were pronounced man and wife. There is some evidence that in villages the whole population would attend. But in cities, especially London, strangers were known to just go to watch the wedding ceremony.

Doctors for childbirth were problematic. It is now believed, and might have been believed at the time, that Princess Charlotte’s death and that of her baby’s was due to the doctor attending her. He committed suicide afterward. Unfortunately, in London midwives were almost frozen out of work because of extremely onerous requirements. However, in the countryside they were frequently used. Birthing chairs allowed gravity to help the baby arrive.

I hope you enjoyed Eleanor and John’s story, and a return to the Worthingtons. Please visit my website, www.ellaquinnauthor.com for the latest news and books, to follow me on social media, or sign up for my newsletter.

Ella

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