Not Always a Saint Read Online Free PDF

She caught her breath. “But I know a duchess and the daughter of a duchess.”
    Harkin blinked. “How?”
    â€œLady Julia Randall created the Sisters Foundation, which is devoted to providing sanctuaries for women and children who have been brutalized. I heard of her work and wrote her, offering what I could spare from my pin money. We continued writing since we enjoyed each other’s thoughts. She also put me in touch with her good friend, the Duchess of Ashton, who is deeply involved with the foundation.” Jessie smiled fondly. “Their letters were a bright spot during Philip’s last illness.”
    â€œI’ve heard of both women,” Harkin said, impressed. “They and their works are much admired. Can they help you when you are ready to consider remarrying?”
    â€œThey’ve already offered their aid and hospitality. Lady Julia’s husband is a lifelong friend of the Duke of Ashton, so the Randalls have quarters at Ashton House. I was told there’s ample space for Beth and me if we come to London.”
    â€œI’ve seen the outside of Ashton House. It is indeed a fortress,” Harkin said thoughtfully. “Having such well-placed friends can only be a benefit, and I’m sure you and Beth will enjoy visiting London after these last difficult months.”
    Jessie nodded, her throat tight. Though not bluntly stated, it had been clear that the ladies were offering her a holiday as a respite after her husband’s death.
    The lawyer said quietly, “Philip told me a fortnight ago that he felt blessed to have such a devoted wife. I know that caring for him wasn’t easy.”
    â€œMarriage vows are for sickness and in health, Marcus. I was blessed to have such a kind husband.” She looked down to the knotted hands in her lap. She could hardly bear the idea of marrying again. But for Beth, she would do it.
    It was either that or be prepared to kill Frederick if the greedy devil threatened her daughter. “I must look to the future for Beth’s sake. I’ll write Lady Julia tonight to affirm that the invitation is still open.”
    Jessie must also force herself to accept the necessity of remarriage. She could do this. She just needed to find a husband who was strong, and kind, and safe.

Chapter 4
    I t took only two days for Daniel to arrange matters at the infirmary so he could leave for London. That was the advantage of hiring good people and giving them opportunities to learn, but it was rather unnerving to realize that he was less essential than he’d thought.
    Kirkland had stayed with him, using his time to attend to the business of his shipping line. They traveled to London in the splendidly sprung Kirkland carriage, which gave Daniel time to interrogate his brother-in-law about the responsibilities of a peer. Kirkland could always be counted on for an honest, insightful answer. Though nothing was beyond Daniel’s abilities, most of his new duties didn’t interest him.
    But he’d have to learn anyhow. Sometimes he wished he hadn’t been born with an overdeveloped sense of responsibility.
    Despite London’s noise and smells, his heart beat a little faster when they reached the city. It was an exciting place, where some of the best minds in Britain could be met.
    Kirkland House was in fashionable Mayfair. Daniel had once made a brief visit, but because he’d arrived at night he hadn’t paid much attention to the place’s appearance. This time he arrived in the afternoon and he could appreciate the luxurious houses that faced the handsome park in the middle of Berkeley Square. Laurel had written of how much she enjoyed the trees and flowers of this urban garden.
    As they entered Kirkland House, golden piano music spilled down the stairs in a rich flow of melody. Daniel smiled, his tension easing as he recognized his sister’s playing. He’d been tense for quite some time, he