A Kiss from the Heart Read Online Free PDF Page A

on her own and the two women quickly made friends with each other.
    She had felt tears prick her eyes as she listened to her describe how she had just lost her husband in a tragic accident in South Africa earlier that year.
    â€œBut you are so young!” she had declared, patting her new friend’s hand. “And married, for how long?”
    â€œBarely a year,” Lady Florence replied, bottom lip trembling. “And the saddest thing of all is that we were not blessed with children. At least if I had borne him a son, I would now have a tangible reminder of my James.”
    Gradually the two women had become inseparable and even after returning home they maintained their friendship.
    It had of course occurred to the Countess that her new friend might make a good wife for her eldest son.
    She now sealed the letter and rang for Hiscock to post it at once.
    â€˜Together we could be one of the most influential families in all the country with the Templeton aristocratic background and her wealth,’ pondered the Countess. ‘In addition to which, Florence is beautiful, accomplished and a keen horsewoman. It is not her fault that she now finds herself second-hand goods – besides, I should not think that would be an impediment as far as Robert is concerned – what with his predilection for married women!’
    She recalled vividly the ugly gossip she had heard about him and a prominent married lady, whose husband was either too ill or too stupid to pay any heed to his wife’s peccadilloes.
    It pained her that her family’s good name was being dragged through the smart salons of London as a topic of salacious speculation. And what was worse, it was all true!
    â€˜What Robert needs is a wife ,’ she told herself, as Hiscock arrived. ‘And young Lady Waterton would be the perfect candidate. I do hope she responds swiftly!’
    *
    By mid-afternoon, the Earl had thought better of his bad-mannered outburst towards his mother. He sought her out in order to make amends.
    Although it was not at all in his nature to apologise, when he found her seated in the morning room enjoying the sunshine streaming through the window, he proceeded directly towards her and kissed her head.
    She turned her face upwards in surprise.
    It had been quite a while since he had last displayed any openly affectionate behaviour towards her.
    â€œMama,” he began simply. “You are looking very well today.”
    â€œThank you, darling,” she replied demurely.
    He still appeared tired and drawn, although there was less evidence on his face of the night’s escapades than there had been earlier that day.
    â€œI was thinking that it would pleasant if we dined at the Criterion tonight. I know how much you enjoy their chops and grills – ”
    The Earl hesitated.
    He had intended to dine at his Club and then go carousing with his former Army friends. There had been talk of slumming it at Vauxhall Gardens or braving the Tewkesbury Theatre to see some low life and notorious entertainment involving a contortionist.
    â€œI know I am still in mourning, but I do so long to spend an evening outside of these walls!” she pleaded with an expression that softened his resolve to fritter away his time on idle pursuits.
    â€œThat would be delightful, Mama,” he said, smiling at her. “It is very thoughtful of you to remind me of their delicious fare.”
    â€œI shall ask Hiscock to have the carriage brought to the front door for seven o’clock,” she stated decisively.
    â€œSplendid, Mama. Now, I feel the need for some fresh air. A ride around Hyde Park, I think.”
    â€œExcellent idea, Robert, you will work up a good appetite for dinner!”
    He left the room and made his way to the study.
    He ignored the pile of papers that had just arrived from the estate and rang for Hiscock.
    Within moments the butler arrived.
    â€œHiscock, I wish to go for a ride. Would you