Briar Patch by Linda Sole Page A

the judge of what is proper.’
    Roz let the argument go. Her mother would be angry if she learned that Roz had taken Carrie some clothes and the coral beads, but there was no need for her to know. Mama seemed to have put the blame entirely on the Blake family, though surely she must have known her husband’s reputation. It seemed that her irritation was saved for her daughter, though Roz had no idea what she had done to deserve it.
    It was nearly time for luncheon. Roz quickened her step as she reached her home. She was almost at the door when a gentleman came out, a smile on his face as he saw her.
    â€˜Miss Thornton. Your mama said you had gone for a walk.’
    â€˜Yes. It was such a lovely morning.’
    â€˜I know you like to walk and to ride.’ Harold Rushden hesitated. ‘Lady Thornton tells me you are moving to the dower house after the wedding. You will find it very quiet, I think?’
    â€˜Yes, I dare say we shall. We must hope that Julia will invite us to dinner or a card evening now and then.’
    â€˜Someone as lovely as you shouldn’t be hidden away. As you know, I spend part of the year in London or Bath – if you married me you could hold your own evening parties whenever you wish. Without meaning to brag, I’m thought of as quite a respectable and wealthy man, Miss Thornton – or may I call you Roz? As my wife, you would be the mistress of two houses and have your own horses and rig.’
    His proposal was so unexpected that for a moment she couldn’t find the breath to answer.
    â€˜Are you asking me to marry you, Mr Rushden?’
    â€˜Yes, of course. Forgive me for being so clumsy. I’m a plain-spoken man, but I care for you – always have. I should be happy if you would take me.’
    â€˜I hardly know how to answer you, sir. I was not expecting a proposal.’
    â€˜Your brother knows my feelings. I thought he would have told you.’ His dark eyes were intent on her face. ‘I know you’re not in love with me. If you could bring yourself to be a proper wife to me, I would be satisfied with kindness and courtesy, which is what you’ll get from me, Roz.’
    The words of refusal were on the tip of her tongue. She had no right to accept his generous offer even if she wanted to marry him and in her heart it was the last thing she wanted. Yet what was she going to do if she refused him?
    Roz studied her suitor. His features were heavy, his nose short and his jaw square, eyes closer together than she liked, but he was strong and healthy. He had a fine estate close by – and a townhouse. She would be able to live in London for several months a year. It was the life she had been taught to expect.
    â€˜This has taken me by surprise, sir. Would you allow me a little time to consider?’
    â€˜Take all the time you want,’ he said and a look of relief spread over his face. ‘I thought you would turn me down flat.’
    â€˜I’m grateful and . . . honoured that you asked,’ Roz said. ‘If I give you my answer after Philip’s wedding, will that be soon enough?’
    â€˜Aye. Your brother invited me to the wedding but I shan’t come. I’ll send a gift and leave it at that – I won’t badger you for an answer, Roz – and if it’s no I’ll understand. You might have done better if your father hadn’t come to a sticky end. I’ve country manners and I ain’t no oil painting.’
    â€˜You shouldn’t put yourself down,’ Roz said and offered him her hand. ‘Just because some of our friends have fancy manners and live in town it doesn’t mean they’re better than you.’
    â€˜Aye, well, I thought that fellow Richmond might have turned your head but he’s no gentleman, Roz.’ He held her hands between his big ones for a moment then released her.
    â€˜When we return I shall send word.’
    â€˜I’ll know when