Chapter 17
“Indeed,” he said with a smile, “it’s all hands on deck in this weather, to misuse a seafaring metaphor for our country matters. He’s a good lad,” he said fondly, referring to Nick. “Even though he’s not the eldest son, he works his heart out on that farm. One day he’ll make someone a fine, level-headed capable farm manager for all his pretty ways and gallantry on the dance floor.”
Jonathan merely smiled in response and said all that was polite. But as they continued their inspection, Mr. Grant’s words gave him the germ of an idea. 13
He tried not to be restless that evening in the drawing-room while awaiting Nick’s arrival. The local families (at least those who weren’t town dwellers) were all a little delayed on their estates. Jonathan tried to keep smiling and talking to whoever was in front of him and not repeatedly look behind him in the direction of the door to see if Nick was coming through it.