The Persuasion of Miss Jane Brody Read Online Free PDF

stopped their progress. His handsome face loomed close in the half-light. Was he going to kiss her?
    Shocked and breathless she asked, “What are you doing?”
    Dalton released her and stepped back. “I beg your pardon Miss Brody, I allowed an impulse to overcome my good judgement. Shall we resume our dance?” His mellow voice was soothing.
    “Only if we return to the ballroom. The air is quite chilly out here.” Jane’s tone matched the frosty air.
    He silently led her into the ballroom and they resumed their waltz. This time Lord Dalton kept the required distance from Jane as he led her in floating circles around the dance floor. The warmth of his hand on her waist, the scent of his cologne and the blurred montage of colours in the ballroom filled Jane’s senses and she shivered with awareness of him. She gazed up in admiration at his long-lashed eyes, his straight nose leading to his smiling, sensual mouth. His hair curled across his temples in unruly deep brown waves, and his sturdy eyebrows seemed to arch in a query to her thoughts.
    Too soon the final bars of the tune were played.
    Dalton released her waist but kept hold of her hand and bowed to her, then tucked her hand into the crook of his arm as he led her off to the adjacent supper room. “Now, Miss Brody, let me fill a plate for you then we can have a comfortable chat.”
    He seated her at a small table in one corner of the room and strode to the buffet table. Jane looked around for Lady Elizabeth and wasn’t surprised to find her seated with Dr Logan at a little distance. She looked flushed with happiness, listening as Dr Logan explained something using expansive hand gestures.
    Returning to their table, Lord Dalton placed a full plate of pastries in front of Jane. She thanked him.
    He inclined his head. “You’re welcome Miss Brody. Now tell me about your family and how you became involved in all your causes.”
    “First tell me about yours, Lord Dalton.”
    He looked intently at her, hesitated, then began, “I have an indomitable aunt. She is determined that both Elizabeth and I make the greatest dynastic matches of the coming Season to those not only with vast wealth but address and looks to match.”
    Jane smiled in amusement. “And will she succeed?”
    “She may try! But for myself I believe I can determine my own best interest without her assistance. Nevertheless, she is like a terrier hunting a rat about the urgency of a marriage for the sake of an heir.”
    “No doubt that is of great importance for your family.”
    “It is because I have so many dependent female cousins!”
    “I hope Lady Elizabeth’s choice for her own future happiness is given as much due as yours shall be.”
    Lord Dalton considered her comment. “We shall see how well she chooses first.”
    Jane persisted in her questioning. “And if her suitor lacks presence, power and wealth, will she be granted her heart’s desire?”
    “I can’t promise that.” His brows snapped together to form a frown of annoyance.
    “What of her rights – to make decisions about her life and her happiness?”
    “Sometimes that is best determined for young women by their families, in particular, the head of that family.”
    “You keep a lot of power over her for yourself in other words.”
    “Indeed, and that is how it ought to be. Young women who are under age need some guidance. They don’t always make good decisions because of their youth. If your young sister was to choose an inappropriate marriage partner, would you not try to intervene or at least counsel caution?”
    “Yes, of course I would, but I wouldn’t have the power to stop her.”
    “Therein lies the difference.”
    “But should there be a difference?”
    “Of course. Men make decisions in this world. It is a woman’s role to obey.”
    “Enough! You put me out of countenance. I am angry just to hear this talk.” Jane flourished her fork.
    He disarmed her gently. “Let us change the subject, Miss Brody,