Degrees of Hope

Degrees of Hope by Catherine Winchester Page B

Book: Degrees of Hope by Catherine Winchester Read Free Book Online
Authors: Catherine Winchester
Ads: Link
although she believed James to be right, it made her feel like a failure and she eventually stopped seeking his counsel, writing only of other events in her life.
    In recent months she had spoken a lot of Hope and the Beaumont family, since they were almost the only social company that she kept. As such, James had come to think a great deal of Hope. His sister described her as courageous, brave, loyal, warm hearted and kind; all ideal qualities for a woman, he thought, so he was predisposed to like her. Once he had seen her for himself, he liked her even more, for her light blue, almost grey eyes combined with her dark, almost black hair, was a striking combination, and he now found himself quite taken with her.
    Had he known who she was that day in the town square, he might have tempered his words. He still believed that he was right, for everyone knew that a woman could never be a man's equal but he would have held his tongue, or at least found a kinder way to say it.
    He still thought that Hope was beautiful, but also wilful and stubborn, two qualities that he hated to see in a woman. He was certain that she would calm down with time though, especially once she had children.
    Finally Honoria had left her sick bed and with his sister at his side, he was optimistic that Hope would give him a second chance, and that Honoria could show him what she saw in Hope. He did want to like her, not just because she was pretty, or his sister's friend, but because he liked to think well of all mankind. He was used to being proved wrong on occasion, but he never gave up hope that people were basically good.
    Honoria was a shadow of the sister that he remembered, but he supposed that having been separated for many years, spending only the school and university holidays together, it was probably only natural that she had changed. Plus she had been seriously ill, so he shouldn't expect her to be the vision of loveliness and happiness that he remembered so well. He was certain that once she was fully recovered, she would regain her former glow.
    Honoria had sent a note to the Beaumonts that morning, informing them that she would call around that afternoon, if it was convenient. At his request, she had left all mention of James accompanying her out of the note. A reply was sent back, saying that they would be very pleased to see her.
    As the carriage turned into the driveway, James' nerves increased, for the estate and the Hall were quite magnificent. He had been pleased to learn that Hope was wealthy, for a pastor's income is often not great, but now he could see that she was probably a good deal more than just wealthy. He wondered what kind of dowry her father was offering for her.
    He knew that it was arrogant to think in such terms, especially given Hope's dislike for him but he couldn't help it. Based on Honoria's description of Hope, she was perfect for him, with her courage, her kindness and her wealth, and he felt that he could overcome her more rude and wilful displays with time. He was determined that she would be his one day.
    As they were shown to the parlour, James took a good look at their surroundings. The Hall and its furnishings were all in excellent condition. Not a threadbare rug, a draughty window or a chipped vase was in sight. Clearly the family had enough money to keep everything in tip top condition.
    Mr Jenners, the butler, announced them to the family and James entered, just in time to see Hope roll her eyes in annoyance. Lady Martha Beaumont however, was the very picture of serenity as she came forward to greet them, not at all nonplussed by having an additional guest.
    “Honoria, I'm so glad that you're feeling better, we were very worried for you.”
    “Thank you, Martha. I'm feeling much better now.”
    “Mr Ashdown, how very nice to see you again.”
    “Thank you, Lady Beaumont.”
    “Please, you are among friends, there is no need for such formalities. Call me Martha.”
    “Very well, if you will call me

Similar Books

Sole Survivor

Dean Koontz

Hush

Jess Wygle

Business of Dying

Simon Kernick

Ransom

Terri Reed