ARABELLA Read Online Free PDF Page A

aunt.
    Upon his approval, therefore, the three of us took to the sward whose green and springy surface floated comfortably beneath my feet. Elaine seemed unduly quiet to a point at which I thought she was regretting her idea. Once out of sight of the house, however, she quickly broached the point, saying that I was much minded to enjoy my first festive evening with dancing and company.
    At this a shadow passed across my uncle's brow. He hesitated much before replying.
    “I fear, my dear, that your Mama would think it very strange were I to take you both. No, I do not think it can be thought of. Moreover, there are Arabella's parents to be consulted.”
    One quick glance from Elaine and I knew that I must speak. Somewhat to my surprise I then heard my own voice declaring that Mama and Papa would make no ado about the matter and indeed were minded that I should enjoy myself.
    “Ah yes,” my uncle replied. He was clearly in a dilemma. Walking on the other side of him, Elaine took his hand playfully.
    “Will you not, Papa? It is a trifle deceitful, I know, but we could always tell Mama that we were attending some other function. After all, no harm will come to us for you will be there to chaperone us. Dear Papa, say yes!”
    Her apparent innocence was perfectly judged in tone and manner, while my own could equally be in no doubt. My uncle, glancing at me as we made our way through a shrubbery, appeared flushed of visage. I would have given much then to read his thoughts. He was most obviously at a loss, since he must either forewarn us of the consequences or simply refuse. The smile that I afforded him appeared to swing the balance.
    “I do hear,” he declared, “that there is to be a small reception at the Eastwoods on Saturday evening. I must mention, however...well, that is to say...they are very lively.” His voice appeared hoarse, his visage strained.
    “I have so heard also, Papa, but that is to the good is it not; for we mean to enjoy ourselves,” replied Elaine who could scarce conceal a smile of victory.
    “Yes, my pet, but...”
    “Then it is settled, Papa. Besides, I have a topping idea. We will apprise Mama that we are attending a seance. You know how such things fret her and that she will have nothing to do with such events. Oh dear, I have no kerchief about me and must fetch one. Pray excuse me!”
    With that she was gone, leaving me in full knowledge of the fact that it was but an excuse whereby I might wheedle the more into her Papa's favours. Alone with him, however, I knew not what to say and felt my tongue quite twisted. He for his part appeared ruminative and frequently on the verge of saying something which he could not bring himself to speak. I surmised, of course, what was on his mind and finally found voice as we came upon a rustic seat outside a summerhouse where he seemed as pleased to rest as I.
    “As to the—er—reception, my dear, I fear that neither Elaine nor your sweet self know of the nature of such— er—functions,” he observed hesitantly.
    “Oh yes, we are fully apprised, Uncle. There is dancing and music and general merriment such as perhaps may not take place at more formal gatherings. Be certain that we are fully prepared to enter into the spirit of things.”
    Had I spoken too boldly? His eyes searched mine—his hand encompassed mine where it lay on my lap. So far from imagining it, I felt his knuckles graze not unpleasurably against my belly where I had inadvertently parted my thighs a little. Wearing as I was a light summer gown with naught but a chemise and stockings beneath, the warmth of my body in such an intimate region communicated itself to his hand immediately.
    “Yes, my dear, but there is a certain—er—freedom...”
    He appeared to have difficulty in finding words. I interrupted him sweetly.
    “Society puts upon us, does it not?” I replied. Keeping my lips parted I gazed at him with such lustrous innocence that he knew not how to answer and indeed made