Section I, Next Section

Author's note: This story picks up a year after "A Stormy Sea".

Part 1

rs. Wentworth?"

Cozily settled on the windowseat of her new home's Study, Anne looked up from her letter and gave a tired smile to Martha, her housekeeper. "Yes, Martha? What is it?"

"Would ye be wantin' some breakfast? Ye haven't touched yer coffee, ma'am."

Anne shook her head. "Thank you, Martha, but you need not get me anything. I...I am not hungry this morning."

The older woman's eyes did not miss the lines of fatigue on her mistress' face. "Ye be puttin' Cook to shame, ma'am. Are ye feelin' all right? Can I not get ye anythin'?"

Anne looked away, trying to compose her thoughts. "I'll be fine directly. I shall need to talk to you later this morning about the Crofts' visit. It seems we are to have an additional guest."

Adjusting her mobcap, Martha's eyebrows rose with interest. "Truly, ma'am?"

"Captain Wentworth's younger sister Katrina is to accompany them from London," Anne answered, glancing down at her letter. "I have never met her so it will be a new experience for us both. We shall have to prepare a room for her, make certain she is comfortable."

Martha nodded. "Aye, Agatha and I'll put it all to rights. Ye need not worry yerself, ma'am."

Smiling gratefully, Anne thanked her. "I've not had to worry about anything since we returned to Lyme, thanks to you. The Captain and I are blessed to have you with us, Martha."

Blushing, the woman turned away and pretended to rub at an imaginary smudge on her apron. "Go on wi' ye, Mrs. Wentworth." But Anne knew she appreciated the compliment. Martha had worked for a cold, barely civil barrister before coming to their new home in Lyme just a month before.

Martha returned to her duties while Anne again re-read the letter she held. It was typical of Sophy's usual vivacious style, she thought with amusement. She described her and the Admiral's rounds about London and how he had complained to his wife that he was weary of balls and parties and longed to see family again. She had more than seconded his thoughts.

"I also have some very startling news, my dear Anne," Sophy had written. "Frederick's younger sister Katrina, who is 26, is to accompany us. She has been living these past ten years with our uncle, Mr. Edgar Hayward, in Yorkshire. He is a scholar, as you know, and Katrina has proven quite a capable assistant to him. But George and I wished her to enjoy some time away from him and have obtained permission to take her with us. She will be staying with me at Kellynch when the Admiral returns to London to lend his advisory expertise to the Navy yet again. I do hope he is not plagued by the gout again whilst he is there."

Anne had always had a curiosity about Frederick's other sibling. When his parents had died ten years ago in a carriage accident, Katrina had been sent to live with a bachelor uncle. Edgar Hayward was a polished scholar who was well known by many in his field for his work in literature and history. But he was not very wealthy and as a result, Katrina's upbringing had been rather sheltered and quiet.

Frederick had once told her, "I wish there was more I could do for her but Uncle Edgar will not part with her. He had a genuine affection for her and she is his right arm in assisting him with his research. But I fear the poor girl will never have any amusement or mix with others closer to her age. All of his cronies are in their dotage. Katrina is a sweet girl, good natured and very sensible. She reminds me a good bit of you, Anne. We shall have to invite her to stay with us when this voyage is over."

What a singular life she must have lead over the last years, Anne thought speculatively. To have such a lack of a feminine influence in her life. There must have been lonely times. It reminded her of the years after her own mother's death.

She and Frederick had spent nearly a year at sea shortly after their marriage, Frederick in command of the ship Palisade as part of the sea fencibles patrolling British waters against the French. Anne had taken to nautical life with great enthusiasm, to her husband's pleasure. She enjoyed the day-to-day minutiae of sailing and the detailed workings of the ship. She never tired of discussing ideas and thoughts about the voyage or the crew, he found. It had made his life richer, fuller, and deeper than he had known before.

They had been at sea some nine months before the war ended at the Battle of Waterloo that June. Now it was late July and they were settled in a home in Lyme until the Navy decided what Frederick should do next. They had enjoyed the fellowship of the Harvilles so much that they had chosen to settle close to them. Anne found herself chatting with Margaret Harville almost every day about something and enjoyed their growing friendship with pleasure.

Unfortunately, Anne's health had suffered since her return to England. Aboard ship she had, like her sister-in-law, known no sickness and flourished. But a week after she and Frederick had taken the house, Anne had quietly suffered from bouts of nausea. And there were times at night when she found herself unable to sleep. She had not spoken to Frederick of it because she did not want to trouble him. He and Harville were full of thoughts about the future and were tense about what the Navy's plans were for their lives.

"It must be the change of climate and being on land again," Anne silently surmised as she looked out on the seascape below. The sight always calmed her. Now she understood why Frederick always felt happiest, most at home when he was near the water. She shared that appreciation now herself. The window was slightly ajar and the sound of the surf against the rocks lulled her into a light doze.

Captain Frederick Wentworth entered his house with his characteristic athletic stride, his riding boots clattering on the freshly polished floor. Martha came bustling out, surprise clearly written on her weather-beaten face.

"Why, Cap'n, ye're back so soon?" she asked. "Be somethin' amiss?

Grinning, Frederick doffed his hat and she took it from him. "Why, yes, Martha, I am. Do not be alarmed. Have I disrupted my wife's morning plans to pieces with my return?"

She shook her head, surprise fading into alertness. "Oh no, sir. Didna mean that. Mrs. Wentworth be in the study readin' er letter, sir."

Frederick shrugged out of his light top coat and hung it himself on the peg. "Is that so? It is probably from my sister, no doubt, giving her final details of their arrival. Has she breakfasted yet?"

Martha looked uneasy as she held onto his hat, her fingers grasping the edge of it. "No, sir. I'm a mite worried about 'er, sir. She nowt been eatin' breakfast this last fortnight."

The jaunty smile on Frederick's lips faded into a concerned gaze. "Truly, Martha? Is she not well?"

Shaking her head slowly, the servant replied, "Hard to say, sir. Know she likes what Cook fixes. Jus' says her stomach canna take it. Seems to buck up by luncheon she does. Poor wee thing. Dinna like to nose in to corners but 'er looks pale, sir. Mighty pale."

Frederick's thoughts flew to his wife. He had noticed last night as they had retired how thin she was becoming. She had fobbed him off by saying it was because she was now on dry land, that the air was different in Lyme. Her sweet, lovingly smile had made rational thought flee his mind. But now that he thought of it, her appetite had been rather sparse. He was always gone in the mornings so he had not realized she was not taking breakfast until now.

He turned to Martha and thanked her. "I appreciate this, Martha. Mrs. Wentworth doesn't like anyone to worry over her so she would never complain of any ailment she had. I'll make sure she is well taken care of."

Looking relieved, Martha smiled as she turned to go. "Thank ye, Cap'n. I likes the Missus and hate to see her lookin' so peaked."

Frederick moved down the hall quietly, his mood contemplative. The thought of Anne being ill made his very heart turn over. Had it only been a year ago that she had nearly died of opium poisoning at the hand of her wicked cousin, Mr. Elliot? Watching her hover at death's door for three days had nearly destroyed him then. Only by God's kind grace had she survived to make him the happiest man in the Royal Navy.

He softly opened the study door, looking for the tiny figure of his wife, dressed simply in a green muslin morning gown. She was leaning back against the cushions in the windowseat, her eyelashes dark against her pale skin. As he came into the room, he saw how truthful Martha had been. She looked so tired and frail, like a lost child. How had he not realized it until now?

Sitting down on the sill, his dark eyes took in every feature, ever facet of her small form. Could it be possible for a man to love a woman so much, he mused with wonder. He had thought he could not love Anne more than the day they had married. But now he knew from experience that love could grow, deepen, and become even more consuming than before. By living, loving, and laughing with her daily, Frederick had truly surrendered his heart to his wife in ever way.

"I could not do without you Anne," he thought urgently. "Not now. Not ever."

The weight of his gaze must have wakened her for she stirred, her sleep eyes opening and meeting his. "Frederick!" she murmured in surprise. "You are back so soon! You have caught me napping, I am afraid. Do you forgive me?"

His large, calloused hand reached out to cup her soft, pale cheek, his thumb stroking it lightly. "It is I who must ask forgiveness, little one," he answered quietly. "While I've been off every morning to talk shop with Harville, you've been feeling ill. Why did you not tell me of it before?"

Realizing that Martha had likely spoken to him, Anne's eyes guiltily fell from his. "It is truly nothing, Frederick. I am simply adjusting to new surroundings, that is all."

Her husband's bold gaze told her how much he differed with her on this matter. But it was tempered with love and grave concern. Unable to stop himself, Frederick gently eased his wife into his arms so that she was nestled against his chest, her dark head under his chin. Anne sighed with sweet relief, as if she were entering a safe, welcoming haven. The smell of the ocean clung to his waistcoat, mingling with Frederick's own unique masculine scent. These small things endeared him to her all the more.

"All the same, I'm having Dr. Mills come this afternoon," he informed her, his long fingers rubbing her back comfortingly. "I do not like this one bit, Anne. You must not keep secrets from me like this. Have you not been sleeping well?"

She nodded, knowing it was useless to evade his questions. "Sometimes. But I am certain it will pass. You must not fret over me."

"Why did you not wake me?" he asked gently, kissing her dark curls lovingly. Feeling her soft, sweet body so wonderfully close was like a bit of heaven, he thought. He never wanted to release her.

"It seemed foolish that both of us should be awake," she reasoned, reveling in the feel of his caress. "And I am certain I am only getting accustomed to a new home. Which reminds me, your sister wrote to me. She is bringing your sister, Katrina, with her. Is that not wonderful?"

For a moment, Frederick was distracted from his wife's health. "Truly, Anne? Amazing! I have not seen her since I first returned to England. It will be a true delight to see her again. And I know you will love her as I do. I cannot believe Uncle Edgar is letting her out of his sight."

Anne, glad to see he was now diverted, explained, "He is traveling to Egypt to join a team of other scholars, I believe. And Sophy convinced him to let Katrina stay with her at Kellynch. I am anxious to meet her, Frederick. I am so glad she is coming."

Frederick nodded, his thoughts lingering on his youngest sibling. "She needs some time away from that place. Edgar brought her up very well and has been as good a parent as he can. But she has seen little of the world in the last few years. A journey like this can only do her good."

Nodding, Anne said, "I agree. Martha and I will be preparing her room this afternoon. I want everything to be in perfect order when she arrives."

To her surprise, Anne felt her husband carefully lifting her up from the windowseat so that she was caught up in his strong, muscled arms. "Frederick, whatever is the matter with you?"

Anne saw that no-nonsense look in his eyes and knew what was to follow. She had seen it often enough when he addressed his men aboard ship. "Martha and Agatha can see to all that as you well know," he informed her patiently yet with an edge of strength. "I am taking you to our room so that you can rest properly. And I shall see to it that you do."

Looking up at him with a hint of mischief in her hazel eyes, Anne asked softly, "Truly, Captain? And how shall you do that?"

Lowering his dark head, Frederick captured her mouth with his, kissing her with a depth and vital warmth that left Anne rather dazed and breathless. His eyes glowed as he regarded her, his forehead against hers. "Because I am not letting you ought of my sight, little one," he replied, his voice slightly hoarse. " Come, let us retire upstairs before I forget myself and rob you of your rest."

As he moved away from the windows seat with his precious burden. Frederick thanked his Maker that he had a home and a wife like Anne to return to each day. He would fight the Devil himself to protect her and keep her safe. And well...

Part II

Katrina Wentworth looked about her room with a mixture of pleasure and relief. It was cheerfully decorated in gentle blues and greens and there were fresh flowers on the bedside table. The sea breeze was causing the curtains to sway and flutter playfully. For the first time since she had left Yorkshire, Katrina felt at home.

Putting her bonnet on the bed, Katrina slowly moved over to the window. The breeze caught at a stray red-gold curl and toyed with it. She had travelled with Uncle Edgar enough over the years to appreciate hospitality. How often had they stayed in cramped rooms with little to cheer them? Uncle Edgar, so immersed in his research, took scant notice of the small niceties of life. Like wild flowers in a simple vase, fresh water in the pitcher, a lovely painting above the bed. Small things though they were, they gave Katrina a sense of peace and belonging.

Seeing Frederick again after nearly 18 months had been a sheer delight. He had always seemed larger than life in her eyes. He had always been her big brother, her supporter, her hero. When he had gone to sea in the year six, she had only been seventeen then and living with Uncle Edgar. They had not had much occasion to see each other in the intervening years. But he had never failed to write her and maintain a sincere interest in her life.

Sophy, as always, had enveloped her with her loving nature and sisterly care. She had enjoyed the week they had spent together in London. But at times she had felt as if she were intruding on the warm intimacy of the Admiral and her sister. Married so long, they were closer than any other couple she had ever witnessed. Katrina had been pleased when Sophy had persuaded Uncle Edgar to allow her to travel on with them to Lyme to visit Frederick and his new wife, Anne.

Leaning against the window sill, Katrina's blue eyes hungrily took in the scene below. The house was situated on a hill above the ocean below and it was only a short walk from town. The sight of a gull swooping down to hover over the crashing waves fascinated her. She wished she might stay in Lyme for longer if the surroundings were this pleasant.

Anne had been kindness itself, she thought fondly. Katrina had been quite curious about her new sister-in-law from the moment Frederick had written her to inform her of their engagement. He had spoken so warmly, so lovingly of Anne that Katrina had no doubt of her true worth. And in meeting her that afternoon, these feelings had been graciously confirmed.

Katrina could tell how much Frederick loved his new wife simply in the short time she had seen them together. Sitting in the cozy sitting room enjoying tea, Katrina had watched as Anne seemed to sense Frederick's every need and provide it before being asked. She noticed also how Anne and her brother's eyes would often meet and linger, smiles briefly touching their faces before returning to the conversation.

A fishing boat was slowly moving against the horizon and Katrina's eyes followed it. What would it be like to have such a look turned on herself, she thought with a rueful smile. Not that such a thing was likely. She would keep Sophy company for a time at Kellynch and then return to Yorkshire to help her uncle. To spend her days amid the dusty pages of books and piles of papers and folios. It wasn't a bad life and she loved her uncle dearly. But as her eyes watched the small vessel fade from sight, Katrina could not help wondering if there was something more out on the horizon of her own life to discover. The thought disturbed and confused her more than she cared to admit.

A soft knock at the door caught her attention and she turned from the window. "Come in," she called.

The door swung open and Anne stepped inside with a soft blanket draped over her arm. "The sea air can turn cold at night," she said as she put the blanket down on the bed. "And it would be a shame for you to catch cold. I hope your room is to your liking."

Katrina stepped away from the window, smiling. "More than you know, Mrs. Wentworth. This is so lovely, so inviting."

"Please, you must call me Anne," her hostess reminded her gently. "I heard enough of that on the Palisade and won't have it from family. I am so glad you came to us, Katrina. Frederick has long had a wish to see you and so have I."

Katrina sat down on the bed, her fingers resting on the blanket's warm material. "We are rather a unique family," Katrina remarked truthfully, her blue eyes meeting Anne's as her sister-in-law also sat down. "Flung to all corners with Edward and Anthea in Shropshire, myself in Yorkshire, Sophy and the Admiral all over the world, and you and Frederick now here in Lyme. You may think us rather...peculiar."

As if secretly amused, Anne shook her head and replied, "If your family is peculiar, it is a delightful malady to experience. Having lived among my own family in once place nearly all my life, I believe I prefer yours."

Katrina asked politely, "Are your family nearby, Anne?"

"My sister and father reside in Bath," Anne replied. "And my sister Mary and her family are very near Kellynch at Uppercross. You shall meet her when you travel there with Sophy. Unlike your family, I am afraid that close proximity for mine has not always proven helpful."

Katrina saw the regret plainly written on Anne's face and pitied that look. "But you had your father, did you not? Uncle Edgar is the only father I have known for the last ten years."

Nodding, Anne looked up from the blanket and brightened. "Yes, I have been fortunate in that. And I do love him. But like you, I lost my mother at a rather early age. That loss...is one I have never truly adjusted to."

Katrina's heart softened and impulsively she reached out to touch Anne's hand on the coverlet. "It is a pain...one never recovers from, does one?" she softly asked, her eyes growing slightly moist.

Anne nodded slowly. "Yes, it is. Especially at a time when a girl needs her mother most to guide her in the important matters of life. I was blessed to have my mother's friend, Lady Russell, help me in that way. And no doubt Sophy was of great comfort to you."

Grinning, Katrina agreed. "Yes, she certainly was. But because of the Admiral's constant travel, I rarely saw her. Sophy is...cut from a rare cloth, Anne. I could never hope to be as confident...or lively as she."

Anne saw the look of regret pass over the young woman's face and she saw herself in it. "Katrina, my dear, you are lovely just as you are. I know I have only met you this morning, but I think you and I share a good deal in common."

Looking up, Katrina smiled with true relief and joy. "I am so glad to hear you say that, Anne. Being with Uncle Edgar all these years..I am somewhat starved for female friendship. It would be...a treasure beyond price to know that you were my friend."

Anne saw the sincerity in Katrina's dark blue eyes and was moved. She could see traces of Frederick's features in that face and in that moment felt a bond with her new sister-in-law. She must do all she could to make Katrina's visit with them a happy one before she returned to Yorkshire. A life that most likely was rather unfulfiling and lacking in excitement.

Sophy Croft tugged on her brother's coat sleeve as they stood on the hill overlooking the ocean behind the house. "Frederick, I have a bone to pick with you," she remarked with her characteristic candor.

Frederick threw back his head and laughed with abandon, a ringing sound that carried over the sound of the waves. "Sophy, I was quietly wondering when I would be receiving my first progress report from you. Do not stop yourself on my account. It has never prevented you in the past."

Unmoved by her brother's words, Sophy plunged on. "Are you maintaining your wife on a diet of bread and water, Frederick? As lovely as she always is, Anne looks so terribly thin. Have you been bullying her about keeping a strict tab with the butcher or eating all the best morsels yourself as you did when we were children."

"That was Edward you are thinking of," Frederick reminded her with a gleam in his eye. "He was always quite handy with a knife and fork as I recall. And no, I have not been bullying my dear wife. It seems she is still adjusting to our return to land, Sophy. Her appetite has been somewhat diminished."

Adjusting her turban, Sophy quizzically considered his comment. "Truly, Frederick? That is most unusual. Then again it was her first voyage. I know she stood it well. Her letters as well as yours were a testament to that fact."

"My wife is as good a sailor as you, Sophy," Frederick assured her as he ran his fingers through his dark hair. "She handled it far better than some of my new recruits, who were green as leprachauns only two hours out of port. I have to admit that you were right, Sophy. Anne had made my life aboard ship much better than it was before."

Beaming with self-satisfaction, Sophy looked triumphant as she folded her arms over her chest. "This is a capital day indeed! My brother admitted I was right. George shall be all agog with the news when he returns from the tobacconist's shop. Has Anne seen a doctor?"

"Dr. Mills is coming to see her tomorrow," Frederick answered, some of the humor fading from his face. "He's been gone to London for a medical symposium and I wanted no one else to see to her. She swears to me it is nothing, that tis only in the morning that she feels unwell. But she is also restless at night and that concerns me."

Looking thoughtful, Sophy began to pace back and forth over the grass near the cliff's edge. "Truly now. How very interesting. Yes, very interesting." Her thoughts were at full speed now. How blind could her dear brother be, she though with a smile. Could he not see what such symptoms indicated? Poor boy, she thought. He has been among sailors much too long. She would have to speak to Anne tonight about her suspicions.

"Sophy," Frederick asked, his voice low and anxious. "You do not think...it is anything serious...do you? Did such a thing ever happen to you before when you and George returned from a voyage?"

Sophy's eyes darted up from the grass to meet her brother's dark eyes. She saw the worry there, the genuine fear. It made him appear like a lost little boy, his dusky hair tumbling over his forehead from the breeze. She had seen that look only a year before when Anne had lain near death, walking on the edge of life like a circus tightrope walker and nearly toppling over. She was so wont to tease her brother that seeing him so openly uncertain touched her heart.

Reaching over, she touched his arm briefly. "Sometimes, Frederick. But not for long. I am sure Anne is, as she has told you, just fine. She is the most sensible woman I know. And Dr. Mills will certainly know if anything is amiss."

Folding his gloved hand over his sister's, Frederick's worry faded somewhat as he regarded her fondly. "Thank you, Sophy. I needed to hear that just now. I am glad to have you, George, and Katrina with us. Let us return to them."

As they turned to walk back to the house, Sophy silently thought with amused joy that her brother might yet have another reason to be glad in the days ahead.

Part 3

The streets of Lyme were certainly busting with activity, Katrina happily thought as she and her sister made their way toward the Cobb. It was another bright day full of summer sunshine and Sophy was eager for a walk.

Katrina's eager eyes sought everything around her. She was not accustomed to seeing a seaside village like this on market day. Uncle Edgar's home in Yorkshire was situated far out in the country and they rarely ventured into town. She drank in the sight of the local baker offering a fresh loaf of bread to a sharp tongued mother of two. The verbal banter amused an enlivened her.

"I had forgotten how quiet Hemplestone must be compared to all this," Sophy was blithely remarking. "I hope you don't find it unsettling, my dear."

Katrina glanced at her sister with interest. "Not at all. It is quite exciting, actually. I'm so glad you suggested we visit the Cobb while Dr. Mills is at the house."

Sophy nodded but said nothing. She did not want to voice her opinions on that matter with Katrina until they were confirmed by the good surgeon. Last night she had cornered Anne and they had talked. When she had suggested to Anne what she was thinking, Sophy had nearly chuckled aloud at the utter astonishment on Anne's face.

"Sophy, you cannot think..." she had finally murmured, amazement plainly written on her face. "No, you must be mistaken...it is so soon!"

"Anne, do not look so startled," Sophy had soothed her. "It is quite natural, you know. And could have happened even sooner."

The possibility had sunk in slowly and Anne had turned to her sister-in-law, a half fearful, half hopeful cast to her hazel eyes. "Do you think...Frederick would be happy...if it were so?"

Sophy, unable to resist the entreaty in those eyes, had embraced her warmly. Anne was growing to become as dear to her as her own sister. "He will be over the moon with joy, my dear," she murmured comfortingly. "Of that you can be most assured."

Now as the sisters made progress toward the Cobb, Katrina's excitement grew. To be near the sea that Frederick loved so much was truly a pleasure. The sights, the smells, the constantly changing waters fascinated her. Perhaps she could sketch the lovely vista behind Frederick's house later. Drawing was one of the few artistic pleasures Uncle Edgar had allowed due to his own appreciation of art history. Sometimes she would spirit herself away from the house when Uncle Edgar's cronies came to visit and she would sketch the wildflowers that covered the meadow in the spring.

Sophy watched her sister with mixed feelings. The poor girl had known few indulgent pleasures in her 26 years, she thought guiltily. "If only George and I could have done more for her. Perhaps now we can make it up to her in some small way. "

"Katrina, you have grown into a lovely young woman," Sophy said aloud, admiring her sister's small figure. She was not what most would call a beauty. The current rage was for tall, Junoesque beauties. Katrina's red gold hair was not at all what the Ton would call fashionable nor her lack of stature. But her dark blue eyes and neat form were most pleasant to see. Katrina had an air of sweetness and good humor that was most inviting.

"It is kind of you to say that, Sophy," Katrina replied, flushing pink as her fingers were toying with her gray bonnet ribbons. "And it is kinder still that you have allowed me to accompany you and the Admiral here. Had you not done so I would be quite alone at Hemplestone while Uncle is away."

Sophy's green eyes gleamed like fine gems in the sunlight as they strode onto the Cobb. "It is the very least we could do. George and I feel we have been quite remiss in not doing so sooner. Frederick and I have been rather concerned that you would vanish into the very floor of Edgar's library."

Katrina could not help chuckling at her sister's words. "At times I feel that such an odd possibility may take place," she admitted. "We spend much of our day in that very room. But I do enjoy it most of the time. Uncle is writing a book on the Restoration period that is most intriguing. I've found his research to be very interesting."

Sophy nodded absently. "True, Edgar has always been quite good at what he does. He got most of the intelligence in the family. I hope he had allowed you some amusements, Trina. Visits to neighbors and the like."

Katrina liked the feel of the hard stone beneath her feet and took off her bonnet so that the sunlight might warm her hair. "To be sure, there are not many neighbors for us to meet. Lord Garrett and his family are always enjoyable company. This Misses Garretts occasionally visit and they are nice enough girls."

"How are they faring, my dear?" Sophy asked with interest. "Are they enjoying the little season in Brighton? Remind me of their ages."

"Rose is 18 and Lydia is 20," Katrina answered quietly. She admired the two pretty girls but had little in common with them. Lydia had just made her debut and Rose was nearly frantic to make her own. They were mad for dancing and could only think of their next visit to the dressmaker's in London. They laughed and rolled their eyes whenever Katrina attempted to talk about what she and Uncle Edgar were working on. Katrina sometimes wondered if they were secretly laughing at her as well. They did not have any conception of what it was like to have no female company about them...to laugh, to dream, to gossip.

Sharp as always, Sophy saw her younger sister's thoughtful demeanor. "It's not easy being the niece of a scholar, is it?" she asked quietly. "Edgar was always up to his ears in papers and books. Did he allow you a dancing master or music teacher?"

"Music is one of Uncle's loves so that was always encouraged," Katrina commented as they continued. A pair of young sweethearts were moving very slowly ahead of them, their heads nearly touching. "But dancing is not. Uncle Edgar thinks of it as frivolous hopping about to music."

"That sounds like Edgar," Sophy remarked, unable to resist grinning. "It is little wonder he remains a bachelor, is it not? I can easily recall a number of girls who attempted to draw his eye but they were forever disappointed. He is married to his work, much as Frederick once was."

Katrina's thoughts gratefully shifted to her brother. "Frederick certainly was...until Anne. I think I nearly jumped off the sofa when I received his letter announcing his engagement to dear Anne. Uncle Edgar thought I was quite demented for all my shouts of delight."

Katrina thought of the tone of her brother's letters over the years before his engagement. They were always full of news about the voyage, the ship, the crew. But unspoken under the words there had seemed to be a restlessness that she had never quite understood. She now guessed that it was the love of a good woman such as Anne that he had wished for.

"Frederick lived, slept, and breathed the Navy for a good many years," Sophy wisely told her. "Until he returned to England and saw Anne again."

"Do you mean to say he knew her before he went to sea in the year six?" Katrina asked with surprise. She had always wondered how the two had met. She had not realized that they had previously been acquainted. "Why did he not marry her then?"

Taking a deep breath, Sophy linked arms with her sister as they neared the end of the Cobb. "You shall have to ask Anne to tell you that story someday, my dear. It is indeed a love story unlike any you will have ever heard before."

Frederick nearly tripped over his own feet as he rose from his chair outside of he and Anne's room. Dr. Mills had just put on his coat and was looking quite pleased. Surely that was a good sign.

"Tertius, is she all right? Tell me, man!"

Dr. Mills saw the worry plainly written on his friend's face. "Frederick, you must calm yourself or I shall give you a sedative. Do take that look of gloom and despair off now or you will frighten her. Your wife is in good health."

Frederick felt the air filling his lungs with blessed relief as he sagged back against the wall. The entire time the doctor had been with Anne, Frederick had been holding his breath in anxious anticipation. He had been so certain that it would be dreadful news. The last few moments of waiting had been sheer torture.

"Then why is she so thin, Tertius? Is it merely the change in climate? Why can she not sleep?" Frederick asked after a moment. "It makes very little sense to me."

Grinning like a boy, the older man nodded. "I thought you might be somewhat baffled, much as your good wife was. But I will let her tell you about the origin of her malady, Frederick. It will come much better from her, I think."

Without another word, the doctor began to descend the staircase. He was swiftly met by Martha, who had a glass of sherry waiting for him as refreshment.

Turning toward the door, Frederick steeled himself. He was confused yet relieved. He only hoped Anne would be able to explain it to him properly. Tertius had just told him she would be all right. Then why was he being so mysterious about it?

He quietly entered the bedroom and found his wife sitting on the edge of the bed, her hands linked together, her dark eyes somewhat large and dazed. He had never seen her looking quite so startled and bemused.

At the sound of his entrance, Anne looked up and smiled faintly. "Dear Frederick, come and join me. We have something important to discuss."

Frederick moved over to the bed and sat across from her, his eyes never leaving her face. She was not upset, he saw. There was a mixture of uncertainty and lingering surprise resting there. He reached out to take her small, white hands in his and close his fingers over them protectively. Whatever happened, they would face it as man and wife. Nothing could separate them after the trials they had suffered.

"Little one," he softly spoke. "I am half agony, half fear. Dr. Mills is like a Sphinx and will not answer my questions properly. He says you alone can tell me what I must know. Do not keep me in the darkness a moment longer."

Her breath came in little starts as she sought to find the proper words. How would her beloved Captain react? Would he be shocked? Would he be pleased? They had never discussed this possibility before. She had not entertained thoughts of it herself until Sophy had suggested it last night. Her head had been spinning ever since.

Her husband's strong fingers were under her small chin, lifting it so that she could not escape his powerful gaze. "Anne, please..." he insisted in a hoarse plea that tugged at her heart.

"Frederick..." she began hesitantly.

She paused and felt warmed by the ardent love she saw resting in his dark eyes. She need not fear his reaction. Had he not loved her faithfully and honestly in their brief time as man and wife? He would not stop now.

"Dearest captain of my heart," she murmured softly. "We are...going to have an addition...come winter..."

Brow creasing, Frederick did not understand what she was saying. "An addition?" He repeated the words slowly. "Is the house not large enough, Anne? I know it is not what you are accustomed to but I thought you liked the snugness of the rooms when we chose it. But I suppose we can make alter--"

Her finger covered his lips and mirth brimmed from her shining eyes. Truly, as much as she loved Frederick, some issues were out of his reach at times. "Frederick, I am not talking about the house," she insisted quietly. "You know I adore our new home. I am talking of...our family. Although we may have to convert one of the guest rooms soon enough...into a nursery..."

Utter silence reigned as her voice faded away. Frederick's expression slowly began to change from one of confusion to utter surprise. Anne feared that in moments he would fold up into a faint, he seemed so taken aback.

"Frederick?" she queried anxiously. Perhaps her news was not welcome after all. Had she mistaken him?

It took a moment for Frederick to regain his ability of speech. Never in a thousand years could she have shocked him more than she just had.

"A nursery---you say?" he managed to ask.

Anne nodded slowly, reveling in the dawning joy that softened her husband's low voice, causing it to break. She had not been wrong.

"Oh Anne," he breathed with such pure delight and happiness that tears rose to her eyes. "My own Anne..."

In seconds, his arms swiftly drew her up against his pounding heart, his mouth against her ear. "Truly...a child?" came his excited, thrilled words.

"Yes, my love," she whispered with blissful relief. He was not angry. "Are you happy, Frederick?"

His answer came some moments later. He had first to kiss her dark curls, her cheek, her mouth. It lingered there, treasuring the softness, the sweetness that was his beloved wife. This small, loving woman that had changed his life in ways he still was discovering. And now she was to give him a child. Their child. A confirmation of their life and love together beyond all others.

"I did not think that you could possibly make me any happier than you already have," he finally said, his tones low and moved, amazed. "But I am finding new depths to my level of happiness through you, little one."

"We have not even been married a year," Anne reminded him, an edge of anxiety in her voice. "I know...it is a surprise to you."

Amid his happiness, Frederick sensed his wife's concern and his mouth brushed her hair with a protective motion. "Anne, it would not matter if it is a year or a decade, you are carrying our child," he softly reminded her. "And a prouder husband there could not be at this moment."

She pulled back from him then, her eyes searching his to make certain that what she was hearing in his voice was echoed in his face. "In no time at all I shall be big as a house," she warned quietly, still uncertain. "And likely I shall take to being a silly creature like my sister Mary and complain of senseless aches and pains."

Nothing she said could erase the glow of amazement and adoration that hovered in her husband's dark eyes. He stared at her as if seeing her for the first time, his hand raising to touch her cheek. "Were you to grow a large as a circus elephant I should still think you lovelier than ever," he murmured, smiling fondly at her. "And you will never be like your sister. Are you sure you are all right? That the child is safe? That you are...well?"

She nodded, the uncertainty slowly starting to fade to be replaced by a knowing smile. "I am just fine, Dr. Mills tells me. It seems that our new addition will be arriving in February, Captain. What do you think of that?"

His dark eyes flew to her still trim waist, his hands spanning it possessively. "You have been with child for two months already?" he echoed unbelieving. "And to think, we were aboard ship for the first five weeks! And that storm off of Calais? Oh Anne, God has blessed us beyond measure. Had you any idea of this?"

She shook her head slowly, adoring the feel of his hands resting there. "You must think me a foolish woman but I did not," she admitted. "It simply...did not seem possible...that such a joy..could be ours, Frederick."

He understood what she was saying all too well. Nearly nine years had kept them strangers to each other through distance and resentment. That they had been reunited had been considered a gift from God. To be blessed with children had been beyond the boundaries of their dreams.

"The Lord can work beyond and above what we can ever think or imagine," Frederick quietly told her, acknowledging their faith. "But I think He has outdone Himself this time, little one. For I shall forever question Him as to how He brought you back to me. For where once there was two, now will be three. Come here, Anne."

She was in his arms again, feeling the warming brand of his mouth on hers. There was a protectiveness mixed with passion in his kiss, a silent homage to the feminine mystery that she was in carrying his child.

"Woman, I love you," he muttered against her neck. "And our child. Do not forget. Never forget!"

Part 4

"Frederick, the Royal Navy needs you. It is as simple as that."

Frederick did not immediately reply to his brother-in-law's words. He was mulling over the rather startling news he had just received. Only two days ago he had learned he was to be a father. That had jolted him enough. Now he was being told that the Royal Navy was seeking his advice on the Australia question now plaguing them.

"George, I hardly know anything about transporting prisoners to the wilds of the antipodes," Frederick finally remarked, lighting his pipe to break the tense air in the room. "My experience doesn't run to that end and they very well know it. Why should they want me?"

"But they know how well you took charge at St. Domingo and the West Indies," George Croft countered as he continued drawing on his own pipe. "You're still young, still sharp, and have a wealth of knowledge about long, arduous voyages. Not to mention doing very well in your last service in the sea fencibles. Admiral Maxwell is clamoring for you to join me in London in a week's time for the first session And he'll not take no for an answer."

They were neatly ensconced in the Harville dining room that evening, the gentleman of the house currently assisting his wife in putting their youngest children to bed at that moment. Frederick and the Admiral had left their wives and Katrina enjoying a night of music at Stenning Park, something Frederick would have liked himself had the Admiral not told him that important matters awaited him.

"How long do they imagine this will take?" Frederick asked grudgingly. He did not want to seem ungrateful to the Navy for it had been his course of life since he was barely in his teens. But the thought of leaving Anne for any length of time disturbed him. He had promised to look after her and how could he do it if he were so far away from her?

"They're holding committee sessions over the next five months or more," the Admiral remarked, braving the look of unhappiness on his brother-in-law's face. "They've been sinking money into this enterprise for some time now and aren't so sure they want to continue. And I'll be there with you, along with a good many more. It's an opportunity to share what you know, Frederick. And I'm assured by Maxwell that we'll be compensated very well for our time."

"But to be gone so long," Frederick murmured. "And in London of all places. I can't have Anne there waiting up for me every night. She must have her rest and she won't get any, I know it. And we've just settled into a new home. No, George, I cannot do it."

The Admiral knew better than to speak right away. Twas better to let the man think things over properly. Archibald Harville soon entered the room and joined them at the table. He relished the opportunity to sit with his closest friend and a man he highly esteemed like the Admiral. Retired from the Navy due to a leg wound, Harville never tired of plaguing them with questions about the war.

"I've just been telling Frederick he must take this up, Archibald," the Admiral told him. "It will put a fine polish on his career. Do you not agree?"

"That I do," Harville concluded, his eyes darting to his friend. He knew that Frederick could be stubborn at times and would not be easily swayed by the thoughts of others. Not even George Croft's. "If it is Anne you are concerned about, you need not be," Harville quietly said as he lit a cigarette. "Margaret and I will see to it that she has all that she needs. You need not fear for her safety."

"And you will certainly have the occasion to come home on occasion," the Admiral added. "London is not so far off."

Frederick did not speak. He was turning the matter over in his mind carefully. Anne was his life now, not the Navy. She was uppermost in his thoughts and plans. To be apart from her as she prepared for the birth of their first child was well nigh unthinkable. She had always been of a very self-reliant nature and had proven so aboard the Palisade. But in her delicate state, his presence would be keenly needed. He needed to be present to make certain she did not push herself as she was wont to do.

"And think of what the Navy will do if you refuse," Harville commented, sending a smoke ring drifting aloft. "They do not like having their wishes countermanded, as you and I both know. If you turn it down, they will likely put you in charge of the first ship slated for India or some such endless voyage. Then you shall not see Anne at all, much less be present for the birth. Frederick, truly this could be an unforeseen gift you are receiving."

The Admiral nodded, thankful that Harville was so quick witted. Such a thought had not occurred to him. "Aye, Frederick. Harville has a point."

At this, Frederick's resolve began to waver. This was a possibility he had not considered. The Navy would not take his refusal to take part in the committee meetings lightly. Harville was right in his thoughts that he might easily be sent to some lonely outpost far from home. He had heard of far worse fates happening to officers for lighter differences of opinion.

At least in this way he would be near enough to her so that he could occasionally return to Lyme. And despite his words to the Admiral, Frederick was curious as to how the Navy planned to continue transporting hordes of prisoners to the other side of the world. Perhaps he did have something to contribute after all. And when it was all over, perhaps he could leave the Navy for good.

"I must talk to Anne about this," Frederick spoke at last, rising to his feet. "It is she who will likely suffer the most from this. And I won't do it unless she thinks it is wise."

The Admiral nodded, looking rather like the cat who swallowed the canary. He leaned over the table and affirmed, "Quite right. I would expect no less of you. But I cannot help thinking it amazing in light of the fact that not so long ago we once sat at a table and you swore you were quite opposed to the marriage state. Pardon me while I preen myself a little."

The men's soft laughter filled the room and Harville winked at his friend. "Here, here, Admiral," he chuckled. "Here, here!"

Katrina followed Sophy and Anne out of the carriage and allowed Martha to take her light pelisse from her. Her feet were still tapping from the lively rondo that the pianist had performed for an encore at the concert.

"I do hope you enjoyed the concert, Katrina," Anne kindly remarked as they retired to the sitting room. "Lyme is not exactly known for its cultural amusements."

"It was truly delightful," Katrina truthfully told her, a youthful flush still apparent in her cheeks. "You cannot know how long it has been...since I have attended a concert of any kind like that."

Sophy sat down in a comfortable armchair and remarked dryly, "I am afraid the poor dear heard no music in London. George and I have so little patience for the long, dull concerts they hold. And it is usually such a crush. These intimate gatherings are much more to my taste. Do you not think so, Anne?"

"I agree, Sophy," Anne commented as she invited Katrina to sit beside her on the sofa. "And Lady Stenning is so sweet and unaffected. She performs because it gives her pleasure as well as to her listeners. We are so fortunate to count her and Lord Stenning as one of our new neighbors. Their invitation was quite unforeseen."

Katrina was thinking more of the Stenning's eldest daughter Elise. She had warmly welcomed her with a genuine smile. And upon learning who her uncle was, had peppered her with questions. That the young woman had even heard of her uncle had surprised Katrina considerably.

"It is not only for me that I ask," Elise had said. "But my cousin, Major Ross McGrath, is an avid follower of your uncle's books. He is quite intrigued by his research and has often talked of wishing to meet him, should he come down from Scotland shortly. He will be in ecstasies to know I have met his niece and sister this night!"

Secretly, Katrina had smiled. The Major was likely a bespectacled older man who, like her uncle, rarely ventured outside of his library. So many men matching this description had turned up at Hemplestone in hopes of gaining her uncle's acquaintance. She doubted the Major was any different.

Still, she had been happy to make a friend in Elise, who was 24 and had no signs of marrying. "The society here is a bit limited," Elise had admitted with a smile. "But I am also in no hurry to marry and Mama and Papa have allowed me my odd bent. They did not marry until Mama was almost 30 and they are happier than most couples I know."

Katrina envied her new friend's happy family and freedom from worry. She need never wonder about her future. One day, Katrina knew, her uncle would not be present to support her. She would have to make her own way in the world. Sophy and the Admiral would certainly take her in but she did not want to burden them or anyone else. It was a fear that haunted her from time to time.

"I must say I was glad to leave the city," Sophy was saying as Martha brought in a tray bearing coffee. Whilst it was summer, the evening air was often cool and Anne had ordered it with this in mind. "It becomes more polluted and crowded every time George and I visit. You can imagine how happy we were to arrive here."

"Thank you, Martha," Anne softly remarked as the mob-capped housekeeper left the room. "I have to agree with you, Sophy. I never gained much pleasure from the city beyond its museums and other amusing sites. Father and Elizabeth always enjoyed it greatly but I declare I spent most of my time at the lending library or with Lady Russell."

"Your time will be quite full in the months to come, dear," Sophy remarked fondly. "Making clothes for the child to come and setting up a nursery."

Flushing slightly, Anne took the coffee that Katrina brought to her. "You are right about that. And I have so little experience with such things. I am relieved that Margaret Harville is nearby. I should not know what to do without her."

Anne took a sip of coffee as Sophy asked Katrina another question. Her thoughts drifted to her husband and she smiled, remembering that look of utter surprise on his face. What did the Navy wish of him in the months to come? It was a thought that gave her some anxiety. With his distinguished record, Frederick could be sent any number of places. And while they had not talked of it, Anne knew he would not allow her to accompany him while she was increasing. It was simply out of the question.

It was most likely that the Admiral was giving him his orders this evening at the Harville house. For Frederick to miss a concert with her was highly unusual so she was wise enough to suspect that the visit was not merely to recount old sea tales among sailors.

While she knew she would manage well enough on her own whilst he was at sea, Anne still wondered how she would stand the quietness. There would be so much to do. And while Margaret would certainly assist her, she had her own large family to attend to.

"I am a Navy wife," Anne silently told herself. "And I must remember that when I married Frederick that I was fully aware of what being a Navy wife is all about. So we shall weather this time as we have the others."

The sound of male voices in the hall shook her from her contemplation and she carefully put aside the coffee cup to rise. Frederick and the Admiral came into the room and her eyes instantly flew to her husband's. He was already looking at her with a gaze of intent that told her what she already knew in her heart. Frederick had his orders and needed to discuss them with her privately as soon as possible.

Whilst the Crofts and Katrina discussed the concert, Frederick pulled Anne aside to take her hands in his. "The time has come, little one," he softly told her so that the others could not hear. "We must stand at the crossroads and make our choice."

He was humbled by the courage and wisdom beaming from the depths of her hazel eyes. She knew without his saying a single word that they were facing a dramatic change that would affect them both greatly.

"Then we shall do so together, Captain" she told him firmly, her fingers tightening on his.

Part 5

A soft noise jolted Frederick awake and he slowly rose up to see what had caused it. His alarm quickly faded as his eyes rested on his wife, who was kneeling before the hearth to rekindle the fire that had recently burnt there.

Although it was July, Frederick was not in the least surprised that Anne was doing so. She took cold so easily and her only regret at sea was that she had to give up a good fireplace. Ever since their return to England she had taken secret delight in lighting fires in the grates whenever she pleased. It had caused Martha to shake her head in amused confusion several times but she enjoyed indulging her mistress whenever she might.

The flames were mirrored in Anne's luminous hazel eyes as he watched her lovingly. With her shiny, dark hair tumbling over her shoulders, Anne looked almost younger than the girl he had fallen in love with in the year six. His throat tightened at the memory of how lovely she had been then. And how precious she was to him now.

He could almost picture her sitting beside that fire months from now, cradling their newborn child in her arms. Talking to him or her in a low, loving voice, perhaps singing a lullaby. It was a thought, a vision that often crossed his mind these days and softened his heart.

Unable to remain still any longer, Frederick rose from the bed and pulled on his robe. "Did I not tell you to wake me when you were restless, little goose?" he softly admonished as she looked up in surprise.

"You've had so many things to think about this day," she explained quietly, privately glad that he was awake. "Disturbing you would have been too unkind after all of that."

Attired in a long blue robe that reached the floor, Frederick shook his head and moved over to where she knelt. "Perhaps I am still asleep and dreaming all of this," he said, his voice low and husky as his eyes met hers. "Perhaps you are a woodland fairy that has leapt from the flames to tempt me."

Despite the darkness of the room, he could see the color flooding Anne's cheeks becomingly. Frederick could not longer resist the impulse to gather her close as he carefully swept her from the hearth and up into his arms. He settled her on his lap as he sat in the huge comfortable armchair she had selected for this room. It had been chosen with these moments in mind so that it could hold not only one but two.

Frederick nearly sighed with pure relief as she snuggled her head against his shoulder. How could he give this up, he thought with a heavy heart. Having this sweet, soft woman nestled so close against him, her heart beating against his, was a pleasure he valued beyond price. Her tiny feet were tucked under his knee, seeking warmth. The Royal Navy had best be grateful for the sacrifices they were both to soon make. Such moments restored his peace of mind amid the stormiest of seas.

Many of his fellow officers were bachelors, a number of them swearing off matrimony as if it were some infectious, debilitating disease. They shunned the thought of being "leg shackled" as the saying went, so insistent that a woman would bind and imprison them. But Frederick had never viewed his marriage to Anne in that light. Her gentle influence never made him feel trapped or stripped of power because she encouraged him in his efforts and stirred in him the desire to do his best. And in doing so, made Frederick love her all the more.

"Better now?" he asked gently, his fingers combing through the silk-like tresses of her hair. Its sweet fragrance caught, tugged at his senses like a gentle current drawing him out to the far depths. She was so unaware of what her mere presence did to him, a siren unaware of her hypnotic song.

"Always," she confirmed, relaxing against him. "But Frederick you ought to be asleep and not coddling me like a child. I shall have to manage on my own very shortly, you know."

"Allow me the privilege of taking care of you, little one," he murmured lovingly. "I shall have to give it up all too soon. I do hope our talk of the future tonight did not upset your rest. I will not allow them to harm you, Anne."

"I was only a little chilled, a bit restless" she assured him. "You must not fret over me. It is all decided. You will go to London and do what they ask. They are no fools for having recognized how capable and experienced you are. I am so proud of you, Frederick."

Her support was everything to him now and he reveled in her pride, so sweetly stated. "You need not be, you know. I would not be the man I am without you beside me, darling. You must swear to me that my departure has not overset you, that this is agreeable to you."

Her cheek against his chest, Anne sighed ruefully. "Agreeable, no. Something I can manage, yes. I should never want you to be away from me. But in light of the circumstances, Frederick, it is the best choice for us. I shudder to think of what far-flung port they might send you to if you refused. That I could not endure."

Her words were a gentle contrast to the crackle and hum of the fire. Evening was such a precious time to them both. It had been the time of the day aboard the Palisade they had savored because they could be alone. It was in the dark shadows of night that they renewed their vows and shared their thoughts, their fears, their dreams. Now, sitting here with Anne held so close to his heart, Frederick again relished how sensible Anne's nature was. Most new brides would have been quite distraught at having to spend their first pregnancy without their husband close at hand. But Anne had taken the news in stride and was doing her best to prepare for what was to come.

He looked down at her and kissed the dark curls on her forehead with a lingering warmth. "You always were wiser than your years, Anne. How did I ever do without you in my life before?"

"Quite miserably, Captain," she playfully told him, but her eyes sparked as they lifted to meet his. "As I was without you. This house will seem so very empty without you here. You will grow weary of my long letters to you, Frederick. And Mr. Harpere will be sold out of ink and paper after I am come to do my shopping. But Martha and I shall get through somehow. We will make the best of it."

Frederick replied thoughtfully, "I have been considering that, Anne. I do not like the thought of you here alone. I know your industrious habits all too well and have come up with an idea."

"Frederick, I shan't get into mischief," Anne told him strongly. "You need not fear for me or...our child."

His eyes softened at her words and he tenderly drew her still closer against him. "Which is all the more reason for us to have someone here with you," he insistently answered. "What do you think of having Katrina remain with you when I am away?"

The surprised happiness in her eyes confirmed his earlier thoughts. She would be less prone to overexert herself if Katrina were present to help her. And Katrina would benefit from Anne's steady, loving presence after all those years in Edgar's house. He had watched them together since Katrina's arrival and had been greatly cheered by the quick manner in which they had become friends.

"Oh Frederick," she breathed in delight. "Do you think Sophy would bear to part with her so soon? It would be so wonderful having her here while you are away."

"I shall take care of everything," he assured her, so glad that such a small thing could bring her such pleasure. "And she may visit Sophy when I have come home for my allowed departures. Or you may both go to Kellynch. I know Mary has been begging for you to visit since we returned."

Anne smiled happily and told him, "I cannot think of a better companion, Frederick. And she met Lady Stenning's daughter Elise tonight. It would be good for her to have a friend close to her own age. Elise is not like most girls, she has some sense and a good mind."

"As if you were in your dotage," Frederick teased lovingly, his hand rising to cup her soft cheek. "You look younger than Katrina just now, your hair all tumbled and the fire rippling in your eyes. So this is to your liking? I shall talk to her tomorrow and see to everything. I know she will be as happy as you are with the idea."

"Thank you," she whispered softly, her eyes shining with gratitude. She had at times feared that once the novelty of their union had worn thin, Frederick would not look at her with such love and warmth as he did now. But if anything, he had become yet more protective of her than before.

"You are my treasure, Anne," he told her, his words low and hoarse against her ear as he gathered her close to him. "You hold me captive when you look at me as you are now. If I can do this one small thing for you, it is small payment for what you have done for me. Knowing Katrina will be here puts me more at ease."

Silently, he lifted her up into his arms and carried her back to bed, drawing her close against his heart as he covered them with the blankets. As Anne was lulled to sleep by the powerful beat of her husband's heart, Frederick remained awake, praying his gratitude to God and watching over this slight, sweet creature that was his wife.

Part 6

"I'm truly glad you did not mind my calling on you so soon after the concert," Elise Stenning remarked as she and Katrina walked out the back door of the Wentworth house. "But I could not resist. I so enjoyed talking to you the other evening. "

Katrina smiled indulgently at her new friend. It was no secret that she had been somewhat surprised when Martha had announced Miss Stenning's arrival an hour ago. Elise was nothing like the young society ladies of her acquaintance. She spoke confidently and frankly, giving little regard to social dictates or opinion. Katrina rather liked her for it, as she has always felt her own thoughts and temperament to be rather untraditional as well.

"I am only pleased you chose to do so, Miss Stenning" Katrina warmly replied as they moved into the sunlight, heading toward the small alcove that was nearby, a lovely trellis decorated with morning glories in a pleasant, shady spot with two comfortable chairs. It was an excellent, cozy retreat for a chat between two new friends. "I know so few people here. And it appears that my stay is to be longer than I had originally expected to assist Mrs. Wentworth during her confinement."

Elise, who was a rather tall girl with laughing green eyes and fair hair, beamed with surprise and happiness. "Truly? Oh, that is delightful news indeed. I shall not have to give you up so soon then. And you must call me Elise. We are so close in age I should hate to be so formal. You shall grow weary of me, my dear, for I shall be forever at your arm. I am quite anxious for you to come back to Stenning Hall and see our Library as well. Nobody ever wants to be pulled into a rousing debate over MacBeth or the Tempest."

This was a welcome bit of news to Katrina but it also made her chuckle inwardly. It seemed she was to be forever relegated to the confines of the book room. "I should be glad to, Elise. And I hope you will call me Katrina. Has your father always encouraged your educational pursuits?"

"I am afraid that he and Mama have always indulged me quite a bit," she admitted, her bright eyes reflective of her lack of remorse. "They were afraid they would not have children, and so when I arrived, they gave me free rein to terrorize them. But Mama was always a great reader and I took it up from her. She made certain I had a wide list to choose from as I am certain you did."

"That I cannot deny," Katrina agreed, sitting back in her chair with pleasure. The sound of the surf in the background was so relaxing, the summer breeze causing the purple blooms to flutter and bob. "But I am afraid there were times I often wished to be outside, climbing trees or wading across a brook. My older brother, Frederick, was always game for a bit of adventure and sometimes abetted me in my rather tomboyish ways. That is...until my parents died and I left for Uncle Edgar's. And Frederick went to sea."

Catching her new friend's gaze, Elise nodded thoughtfully. "You are fortunate to have had brothers. I always longed for one. But I suppose you could say Ross has made an excellent substitute over the years, although he was a great deal absent during the war. We did our fair share of chasing rabbits and getting into scrapes when I was a child. We are so fortunate to have him with us for he only arrived last night from Glasgow."

Katrina again thought of the older, bookish Major McGrath that Elise had mentioned before. "I had imagined him to be somewhat older," she confessed, leaning forward. "Is he close to you in age?"

"Ross did so well in the military that he made Major faster than most," Elise proudly explained, her chin lifting a little. "We are all so proud of him. You would not know he is really an earl in possession of a grand estate in Scotland, he is so very good natured and lacking in pretense."

Martha brought out a tray of lemonade with some biscuits and arranged them tastefully on the small table between them. As the servant scuttled back to the house, Elise breathed in the salt air with relish. "I wish the Hall were somewhat closer to the seaside," she confided softly. "It is something of a stroll to get to it, although I occasionally ride. Did you ever learn to ride?"

Blushing slightly, Katrina shook her head. Uncle Edgar could only afford his own horse and the team for his gig. Nor were their funds for lessons. She had only sat on Farmer Taylor's pony once or twice. "I am afraid not," she murmured, taking a sip of the refreshing beverage. "We...Uncle Edgar was not a sportsman and is so often occupied with his work."

Elise saw her question had embarrassed Katrina and smiled warmly. "I should think you would look quite lovely mounted on my mare, Molly. She is as gentle as a lamb and so very patient. I am certain we could have you riding like a champion in a short time. At least good enough for a ramble on the beach."

"Oh, no, that is quite unnecessary," Katrina assured her, flushing again. "I...I should hate to impose on you or your stables in any fashion, Elise, while it is kind of you to suggest it."

An deep, rolling voice spoke behind her. "Nay, Miss Wentworth, you should not deny my fair cousin anything...once she is a mind to it!"

Slightly startled, Katrina turned round to see a tall, red-haired man dressed in comfortable, stylish riding attire. His blue eyes missed nothing as they swept her small, neat figure. The warmth in his expression, the honesty there from someone she had not yet been introduced to humbled, silenced her.

"Ross, you are a canny fellow in sneaking up on us like this," Elise chided affectionately as the girls rose from their chairs. "Miss Katrina Wentworth, this impudent fellow is my cousin, Major Ross McGrath, earl of McGrath Castle in Scotland."

The sunlight made his eyes appear as blue as the Scottish lochs he had recently left, Katrina noticed. This was not the aged cousin Katrina had been expecting at all.

The Major took Katrina's small hand and bowed over it gallantly, his tanned fingers strong and sure. "Elise must leave off with those boring titles. What she really means is that I am a war-weary soldier and little more. It is an honor, nay, a privilege to finally meet you, Miss Wentworth," he spoke sincerely. "My cousin has already told me a great deal about you."

Her cheeks rosy from such an intent, open gaze, Katrina was somewhat bemused. She had so rarely mixed with men below the age of 50 that she felt somewhat off her balance. Clearly much younger, the Major was obviously handsome and intelligent, although Katrina could see lines of fatigue etched under his eyes. The war had obviously aged him somewhat and given his face character as a result.

"You have rendered her speechless, Ross, and that is most unkind," Elise was saying teasingly as she took her cousin's arm. "We do not want to frighten our new friend away, as I have just happily learned she is to stay longer than she had originally expected."

Stirring herself, Katrina then remembered Sophy's words of wisdom. "Just relax and be yourself, my dear, when dealing with strangers" her sister often told her. "For what good is it to be otherwise? After all, they cannot eat you!"

Taking a deep breath, Katrina straightened her posture and smiled up at the Major in gratitude. "You must forgive me, Major McGrath. I have been more wont to keep company with books than people in my life and have need to remember my manners," she spoke honestly.

"There is nothing to forgive, Miss Wentworth," he gently assured her, his eyes resting on her kindly. Was it the way of the Scottish to gaze at a person with such scrutiny, she wondered. "I have heard the same remarked of myself after being locked up with my charts and strategy reports for days at a time. Elise happily reminds me of it from time to time."

Elise was watching the silent by-play taking place beneath the words and smiled inwardly. As she had hoped, Ross was intrigued with Katrina and was doing his best to put her at ease. "Have you come to fetch me home, Ross? Katrina and I were enjoying this wonderful breeze off the sea. I should hate to leave it so very soon."

"I was hoping rather that you ladies might join me for a turn on the Cobb," Major McGrath said invitingly. "It has been much too long since I was in Lyme and have spent the last three hours locked up with your father talking about the war. I find I have need of some fresh air to clear my head before dinner."

Her green eyes dancing, Elise nodded in agreement. "That would be lovely, Ross. How wise of you to suggest it. Please say you will join us, Katrina."

Katrina knew she would like nothing better than to join Elise and the Major for a leisurely stroll but inwardly drew back. She did not want to intrude on the warm intimacy of the two cousins. And she was truly a stranger to this man.

"I will be quite downcast if you refuse her," Ross remarked lightly, somehow sensing her unease. "For I shall have to listen to her sighs of regret if you do not join us, Miss Wentworth. You would not resign me to that fate, I hope. It would be most unkind."

Unable to repress her mirth, Katrina glanced up at him, echoing Elise's laughter and wondering how a near stranger such as this could read her thoughts as easily as a book. He was a kind man, she realized, and determined to made her feel comfortable. It warmed her heart and confused her at the same moment. Why should he do so?

"If you promise that it is no bother," she slowly replied, turning to Elise. "For I know you have only just seen your cousin again after a long separation."

Smiling her pleasure at Katrina's assent, Elise linked her other arm with Katrina's as they began to companionably move toward the house so the ladies might fetch their bonnets. "A bother? No, my dear, you will be my staunch supporter and defender. For Ross has been known to tease me quite unmercifully and I fear I shall need your help in giving back to him what he is preparing to deal out."

Part 7

"If you will sit stop fidgeting like a schoolgirl, I might attempt to get these tangles out," Frederick told his wife with a hint of mischief in his voice as he took up a silver-plated brush from the night table.

Turning back on the edge of the bed, Anne looked up at her husband, schooling her pretty features into a contrite demeanor. "Forgive me, Captain. I continue to remember so many things I have yet to put in your trunks for your journey. They are all jumbled up in my head and I fear I shall forget something."

Taking up his station behind her on the bed, attired very casually in his lawn shirt and breeches, Frederick leaned over and kissed her flushed cheek beneath the silky locks. "And a very lovely head it is, little one," he murmured lovingly. "We shall have you set to rights shortly, I think."

They had just come from a sunset stroll on the beach and her dark tresses had become rather tangled and wild. Frederick always took great pleasure in playing ladies' maid to her by brushing her hair before bed. It was a task he had made his own when they had sailed on the Palisade.

The fresh, salty wind had brought the roses into her cheeks during their lengthy walk and Frederick had found it difficult not to draw her near and kiss her. But the local fisherman, coming in with their catch, might have enjoyed the proceedings all too greatly, so he had resisted the impulse.

His Anne looked lovely amid the candles, he thought, carefully gathering the long, fragrant tresses as he pulled the brush through. This soothing evening ritual would be one difficult to give up.

"Sophy and I brushed all your coats this afternoon," she told him, her voice somewhat low and distracted. The relaxing feel of her husband's hands was making her sleepy. "But there are still a few things left to attend to in the morning. Your shaving articles, your new riding boots, the gloves you purchased at Farrington's last night..."

Watching her sweet face, eyes half closed, in the mirror across from them, Frederick gently chided, "You make me out to be a veritable fashion plate, Anne, when you know I care little for all that. At the same time, I do forget all the annoying details of packing for long journeys. Was Sophy of service to you?"

Nodding slightly, so as not to disturb his delightful actions, Anne replied, "I could not have done without her, Frederick. She knows your habits so well. But I fear we spent more time laughing and talking than packing."

Knowing his sister all too well, Frederick grinned as his large, strong hands gently manipulated the brush and swept down carefully. "You have not seen her truly wicked side yet, darling. I can vividly recall years back when I was at a very formal naval function with the Admiral and she was sitting below in the audience. She nearly got us sacked, I tell you, making faces at me and the like. George and I barely made it through the ceremony!"

Laughing softly, Anne could very well envision such antics. Sophy Croft, while all that was proper in an Admiral's wife, had a spirited approach to life that Anne adored. It was always a pleasure to be in her relaxing, supportive company. Anne was more than glad that her sister-in-law had agreed to stay on with Katrina for the next month before removing to Kellynch.

"I wish I had such a relationship with Elizabeth or Mary," she softly said, somewhat regretful. "But joking and laughing were all but forgotten after Mama died. Only to be replaced by somber stares and complaints of illness. I cannot tell you...how glad I am that you and Sophy are my family now."

Hearing the wistfulness in his wife's soft voice, Frederick put the elegant hairbrush aside and gathered his wife onto his lap, his strong hands falling to her still slim waist as if to protect the new life growing there. He did not want this night to be somber and full of sadness in light of his departure. He wanted Anne to be left with memories of laughter and light.

"Sophy was my rock, my strength when our parents died," he remembered aloud. "She kept me from falling into despair and encouraged me to go still further in my naval career."

Snuggling up against his shoulder, feeling his heart against her back, Anne asked, "However did you combat her playful attempts to thwart you, Frederick? She is so very clever, you know."

Smiling wickedly to himself, Frederick told her, "Sophy was always hoping to catch me out but as children I discovered her fatal flaw. Just as I discovered yours soon into our marriage, my love. She is terribly---ticklish!"

Before she could bolt, Anne found her husband's roving fingers brushing her ribs with insidious intent. "Frederick!" she gasped, trying to suppress a sharp giggle. "Katrina...she will hear us!"

But her gleeful spouse would not be deterred, his knowing hands instinctively finding those places that he knew drove her absolutely mad with laughter. She twisted to hide her face in his shoulder in a futile attempt to smother the shrieks of laughter that were pouring from her lips. Her entire body was shaking with the effort to still her reaction to his movements, the air catching in her lungs.

"Katrina is ticklish as well," Frederick chuckled, enjoying the helpless mirth issuing from his petite wife, now thoroughly enclosed in his arms. "And she knows my penchant for teasing. Are you prepared to cry mercy, little one?"

Breathing in rapid, short breaths, Anne's flushed face and laughing eyes entreated her husband. Even now she could feel his long fingers threatening to attack again. "Mercy, my captain, have mercy on your long suffering wife!"

Mesmerized yet again by the feel of Anne's warm, soft body against him, Frederick desisted his assault and felt her welcome sigh of relief against his chest. "I shall retreat for the present but be forewarned, my love, a return assault is always possible," he warned with a gentle, mock menacing tone.

Her hazel eyes softened by the glow of the candles, Anne reached up and gently touched Frederick's face, her thumb lightly caressing it. "Is that so, Captain?" she softly asked, a hint of fire tingeing her words. "Do not underestimate your opponent or I fear you shall find yourself quite in over your head."

A shimmer of warmth coursed up Frederick's spine as he regarded her beguiling smile and all pretense of his game faded. She had only to look at him as she was now and he was utterly defenseless, so bewitched he was by her glowing eyes, her dark locks tumbling about her shoulders.

Pressing his forehead against hers, Frederick's mouth hovered only inches from hers. "I fear I have long since lost my head...and heart to you, my love..."

Smiling to herself, Katrina continued walking down the dimly lit corridor to her chamber. She had heard the laughter coming from her brother's room moments before. It was just as it should be, she thought. Tomorrow he and the Admiral would be leaving for London and there would be no time for laughter then. Let them savor what moments they had together.

Although she had not known Anne long, Katrina sensed she was going to miss Frederick terribly. What her brother would suffer upon separation would be equally painful. She had watched them returning from their evening walk, Frederick's arm about Anne's shoulders. They were so tightly bound to each other that to think of them parted for any length of time made Katrina equally sad for them both.

Entering her room, Katrina set the candle down on the bedside table and moved over to her window. She lifted the sash and welcomed the sound of the surf pounding relentlessly against the shore below. In the short time she had been in Lyme, Katrina had fallen in love with the sea. It beguiled and mystified her at the same time, intriguing her and drawing her closer each time.

Her walk on the Cobb with Elise and the Major had been so enjoyable. The Major had amused them with stories about the villagers that lived near his castle in Scotland. And she noticed that he took great pains to ask Elise about her activities, how she was faring in her reading and talents. It had rapidly become clear to her that the Major set great store by his family ties and that he treasured his relationship with Elise and the Stenning family.

While Elise had stopped to chat with a neighbor, Mrs. Hammond, the Major had asked her about Uncle Edgar's work. "Growing up with such an acclaimed scholar as Edgar Wentworth must have been an amazing experience, ma'am," he had remarked. "And to have assisted him must have been fascinating."

Smiling to herself, Katrina had watched as a gull swooped low and veered back up. "Uncle Edgar is a voracious reader and his research often leads him down many paths," she remarked quietly. "And I often ended up following him. I must confess that I did not always grasp the meaning of all the issues he was studying. But it was often very exciting...to read about a relic that had been discovered and its history. Or how a civilization came into being."

Katrina had stopped short and flushed with embarrassment. "You cannot want to hear all of this prattle... I do apologize," she told him haltingly.

"Not at all, Miss Wentworth," Major McGrath had assured her, soothing her fears. "I have been longing to talk with you about your uncle's work since Elise told me she had met you. The lives of the ancient Romans have always been a subject of great interest to me."

Seeing that Elise was not soon to end her lively chat with Mrs. Hammond, the Major offered Katrina his arm and they chose to walk to the short end of the Cobb. "You see, Miss Wentworth, I have been a diplomatic representative of sorts in the last five years. While I am a soldier, I have also been traveling for His Majesty to strengthen relations with other countries. The world fascinates me and I find myself continually asking questions about it."

Feeling the strength of his arm as he moved them to avoid a passing merchant with his cart, Katrina lifted her face to feel the sunshine beaming down on them. "Then you and Uncle Edgar would deal well together," she remarked fondly. "For he is forever asking "why" and "how." I suppose that is what makes his writings so well beloved. He asks what so many want to know but never articulate."

Looking down at her with frank admiration, the Major nodded. "Well said, Miss Wentworth. I could not have stated it better. Now that I am momentarily on leave from my weary travels, I will take pleasure in picking your brain, as it were, to find out some of those answers. I hope you shall not mind my tormenting you so with questions."

As they continued their leisurely stroll, Katrina could not help smiling as she looked up at her companion. "It would not be a torment but a pleasure, sir, but I must vow that I may not have the answers you seek," she spoke honestly. "And I should warn you that I am likely to do the same to you. Your travels must have been very exciting, so I may quiz you in return."

As if laughing at himself, the Major grinned and shook his head. "You are sadly misinformed then, ma'am. While I have indeed done a great deal of traveling, I spent more time locked away in conference rooms with prosing bores than exploring and visiting great wonders. But I shall share with you what I may and pray you will find it to be of some use."

Now as she sat in the comfortable armchair beside the window, taking the pins from her hair, Katrina thought of how unaffectedly open and unassuming the Major had been. He made her feel so very comfortable, as if her years living alone with Uncle were quite normal. As if her conversation interested and enlivened him. She had always thought herself to bore people when she talked of her reading. But Major McGrath...he was different somehow.

Giving herself a small shake, Katrina took a deep breath as if to settle herself. "It is no use thinking of this," she thought. "He is a wise, handsome, wealthy man who no doubt thinks I am the oddest girl he has ever met. I am blessedly fortunate that he did not laugh in my face at some of the things I said. I am here to help dear Anne...not flatter myself into thinking the Major enjoys my sad attempts at conversation."

At the same time, Katrina sensed that her days in Lyme would prove to be much more intriguing than she had originally thought. And she was looking forward to what those days would bring.

Continued in Section II