“Yes, he has a rather spacious cottage on the southern side of the lake. There is a cook, housekeeper, and under maids, but no butler. I will bring two of my own footmen in addition to the coachman and groom. Of course, your maid and my valet will be there when we arrive. If you wish, you can write to the housekeeper and tell her your meal preferences before we depart.”

“Thank you, I shall.”

He nodded. “We will likely be tired from our journey, so I thought the first few days we might do nothing other than relax. There is a path leading down to the lake’s edge and another wrapping partially around the shore. I thought we could sleep as late as we want, take a walk before breakfast, read on the benches in the garden before dressing for dinner, and walk again as the sun sets. It is a spectacular view from the top of the hill. There is a small boat we could take out onto the water and have picnics on the shore. I hoped you might consent to play for me after dinner some evenings, and perhaps sing.”

He smiled at her as he said it and she unexpectedly colored.

“There is some society, of course, and after a few days of rest we could venture into town and see who is about. There is a concert hall and an assembly room. There will be a calendar of sorts at the cottage when we arrive. You know I am not fond of balls, but if you wished to attend an assembly, I could be convinced.”

She smiled at his flirtation and was happy to see him returned to good spirits. “And how would I do that, sir, for you know I am very fond of dancing?”

His eyes darkened for a moment and he leaned down until his lips nearly touched her ear. “Elizabeth, one kiss from your lips, and I will give you anything you ask of me.”

“Oh.” She blushed and looked down, suddenly discomposed and the skin of her neck tingling where his hot breath had touched it. “I will have to remember that, sir. If there is ever a time when we disagree, I shall know how to carry the day.”

He smiled. “You do that.”

They walked in comfortable silence for several minutes before Elizabeth spoke again.

“Well, that settles it. I cannot take Jane. She would be frightfully bored. And Mary would likely not mind spending the time reading on her own, but I cannot think that would be good for her. And of course she would be made uncomfortable by sitting every evening in the drawing room while you watch me play and make that face you make when you are being so frightfully serious.” She sighed and looked about casually. “No, I cannot subject my poor sisters to such treatment. We shall have to go alone.”