Roderick's Tale

"We are aiming to avoid scandal. My father is here to be seen publicly with Mother. I will be marrying Edith--"

"And you wish me to marry your sister," he finished my explanation.

I nodded. I paused the discussion, letting him digest the information. During the pause, I gathered my pipe and tobacco, and I offered some to Mr. Jones as well.

When we were both puffing contentedly on our pipes, Mr. Jones asked, "My marrying your sister would avoid scandal from her pregnancy, but does she not want more children? I-- I don't think I could help with that."

I smiled. "Faith wishes to continue a relationship with me. She would get what she wants, and you would be free to live your life; spend time with Mr. Jakobe discreetly. Grandfather will negotiate the wedding contract with you if you are willing to agree."

Mr. Jones glanced around the room in thought. "May I speak with Mr. Jakobe in private?"

I glanced at the clock. "Of course. I have need to excuse myself to the water closet. I shall get him for you and return after my ablutions."

I tapped out my pipe and did as I said. I returned through the antechamber, knocking on the door before entering. When I stepped in, both men rapidly stepped away from each other. They would not meet my eye, blushing furiously.

I couldn't help but smile. The scene was as though I caught two unwed teens being promiscuous.

Deigning not to notice their indiscretion, I asked, "Have you had a chance to discuss the issue?"

Mr. Jakobe bowed slightly. "I beg your pardon, sir, I must return to my duties."

I nodded, dismissing him. Looking at my guest, I silently questioned him with a raised eyebrow.

He nodded. "Yes, we were able to speak. I have a few more questions for you."

We resumed our seats. "Of course."

"My mother has longed for me to marry and sire her grandchildren, and I believe the proposed arrangement would work well for me in that regard. However, would you be vexed that the children would be claimed as mine?"

I nodded my understanding. "Honestly, not being able to claim Faith's children as my own is the one part of this that I like the least about this plan. I may not be able to claim the children, but I would be an active part of their lives and raising them as their uncle. Just as the child my mother carries will be my sibling." I sighed. "I realize it is a cost I must pay to ensure my family is not ostracised from society."

Mr. Jones sat staring at me, thinking about what I said. "What would my obligations be then?"

"Grandfather would stipulate your obligations specified in the wedding contract; however, you would need to be seen publicly with Faith, near when she would become pregnant. Attend socially requisite events as husband and wife-- I can't think of anything more, though Grandfather might."

"Presumably, I would move here to your estate?"

I nodded. "You would need to have a residence here; however, you would only need to use them when Faith becomes pregnant. If you were to travel or continue schooling or business elsewhere, that's fine, as long as you meet your obligations."

Mr. Jones nodded and smiled. A moment later, the smile faded. "Please don't think this next question is one out of station. I simply need to know. How would Faith's dowry work? Would I be getting an estate elsewhere or something similar?"

"I can't answer for sure. However, my father did not get Mother's dowry. As part of the marriage contract, Mother's dowry remained with my mother, inherited by the firstborn son. Father simply gets a stipend from the estate's income."

He nodded again. "Sir, I would like to conditionally accept the offer to marry your sister."

"Good!" I stood up and shook his hand.

"I fear, however, I must depart. I shall not tell anyone other than Mr. Jakobe about the arrangements until we can speak with Faith and your grandfather."

"Prudent," I agreed, and I escorted Mr. Jones to the door. "Thank you for coming and agreeing."

He smiled wide at me. "Thank you for this opportunity. I feel this match will work well for both of us." His smile faltered. "Thank you also for not being reproachful toward me or my inclinations."

I clapped him on the back. "We cannot help who we love. We are who God made us to be." His eyes went wide at my statement. I chuckled, "I think you will find I hold some radical views. If you are able, call on us for breakfast. It will allow you and Faith to get to know one another more privately afterwards."

He quickly agreed, we shook again, and donning his top hat, Mr. Jones left.

I returned to the remainder of the party; however, most of my family had retired. Only Faith and Edith remained, and I nodded, telling them the good news.

***

When I awoke the following day, I took some extra time with my morning routine. I washed thoroughly and shaved. I dressed in my business attire, before penning a letter to send with the morning post to Uncle Aubrey, announcing my intention to visit. Ready, I left my room.

My grandparents were just leaving their room across the hall. "Good morning, Grandmother, Grandfather. Have you heard the news from last night?"

"Good morning, Roderick," they said in unison before sharing a smile with one another.

Grandfather continued, "No, what good news is this?"

We walked together to the stairs. "Mr. Jones has agreed to wed Faith, conditional on negotiating the marriage contract. Which I have left to you, Grandfather. I led Mr. Jones to believe that he would likely get a similar agreement as what father has."

"Hmph. We'll have to see. I will speak with your father about the dowry he shall need to pay."

"He may not wish to pay. He has not been cooperative. If necessary, I shall pay the dowry," I proclaimed.

Grandmother smiled at me. "Roderick, you shouldn't make claims like that too loud. If your father were to hear, he would use it to weasel out of his obligations."

We entered the dining room and were the first ones there. "That may be, but I shall not have Faith cheapened because he is not willing to pay a fitting dowry."

"I'm glad to hear that m'boy," Grandfather stated with a smile.

Cook had the food prepared and sitting on the sideboards. I helped Grandmother collect her plate. By the time she was seated, Mother, Aunt Lola, Faith, Edith, Agnes, Ephram, and Father joined us. I again aided Faith, and then Edith collecting their plates.

Before I could collect my own food, there was a knock at the door. I smiled and headed for the foyer.

Like the day before, Mr. Jakobe admitted Mr. Jones before I made it there.

"Mr. Jones, welcome. I'm glad you made it. Please come! You are just in time," I welcomed the prospective addition to the family.

As chance would have it, Mr. Jones was seated next to Faith, who happened to be next to Grandfather, and across from Father. As we broke our fast, due to the time constraints to make this plan come to fruition, Grandfather directed the conversation to business.

"Mr. Jones, Henry, wasn't it?" Grandfather asked.

"Indeed, sir. You all may call me familiar if it pleases you," he replied.

Grandfather continued, "I heard a rumour that you are interested in marrying our Faith?"

Henry choked slightly on what he was eating and quickly took a drink of his water. When he could speak again, he replied, "Um, yes, sir. I have not spoken to her father about it yet, though."

Father glanced at the man, shocked. I could understand his reaction after our discussion the day before.

Grandfather looked around. "Ephram, Agnes, please inform the staff we do not wish to be disturbed. Then close the doors, please."

They both hurried to do as they were asked. When we were finally closed in, and away from the prying ears of the servants, Grandfather stated, "Rather than skirt the issue at hand, we can now speak freely." He looked at Henry. "You know of the situation and that Faith is pregnant by Roderick?"

Henry nodded. "Yes, sir."

Grandfather looked at Father. "Ira, does Faith marrying this lad suit you to not cause scandal?"

Father glared between Henry, Grandfather and myself. "Yes, I suppose so. But if you wish me to bless what you are planning, I cannot. There are doctors out there who can remove the baby!"

There were gasps from around the table. I know I was shocked to hear my father speak the words.

"Father, you shall not speak such things at my table again!" I ordered.

It looked like Father was about to protest, but Grandfather spoke first and authoritatively, "What we need to determine is Faith's dowry."

Father glared at Grandfather before glancing at Faith. "I shall pay no more than £1,000."

More than one voice spoke out in outrage. Poor Faith had tears in her eyes, and Henry looked like he were about to run.

I stood up. Slamming my fists onto the table, I bellowed, "Silence!"

Everyone did as instructed, and they looked at me. Most of the women were wide-eyed, and I have no doubts that they knew I was mad, well past simple anger. It took all of my restraint to not become violent with my father.

"I believe this meal is concluded. Ladies, perhaps you could leave us to speak in peace. You do not need to hear the uncouth things that I am about to utter."

The women simultaneously stood. I walked around the table and gave Faith a hug. "Worry not, dear Sister. You will not receive such a pittance for your dowry."

Mother collected the still crying Faith, and they left.

The men stared at me as I resumed my seat.

I took a deep breath before glaring at my father. "Life Peer, Baron Livingstone, I have had enough of your insults. I want you out of my life and the life of my family. I shall pay you the sum of £100,000 by contract to take over your rights and responsibilities for Faith and Mother. After which, you shall not receive another quarter farthing from this estate. You shall break all contact with us. Mother, Faith, and myself shall forgo all inheritance from you."

Grandfather stared at me with wide eyes. "Roderick!"

I glanced at him. "I know." Looking back to my father. "What say you?"

Father studied me. "I accept your terms. I shall send for my lawyer. Together you and he can draft the contract."

"Very well. I have business later today, so we can discuss it tomorrow. Please leave us now. I need to tend to my family's needs."

Father smirked. He looked smug as he left the room.

I slumped down in my seat. The anger left me as quickly as it came. "Ephram, may I trouble you to see to the women? Please inform them of what happened."

"Of course, Cousin." Ephram nodded, leaving.

Now only Grandfather, Henry, and I remained at the table. I glanced at my soon-to-be brother-in-law. "I apologize. My father brings out the worst in me. I did not wish for that to happen, though I am glad it is done."

Henry looked at me and shook his head in wonder.

"Henry, would you agree to a dowry of £30,000?" I asked.

"Of course, Roderick. Your father's offer was more than an insult. It lowered his own status, as well as mine and Faith's. What you offer is more than it need be."

I smiled. "I disagree with you there. It is enough to raise the status of us all." I sighed. "I have other matters that need tending. If you will excuse me, I will allow the two of you to work out the marriage contract."

They agreed, and I left the room. Grandfather followed me out into the hall. "Roderick."

I turned. Grandfather hugged me close for a brief moment. "That was an honourable thing you did. It was also completely illegal, and the contract could not be legally enforced. It is a large sum of money; is it something that you can afford?"

"I may have to liquidate or borrow against some stock, but yes, I can afford it. I will think about my options, though. And though not legally enforceable, I believe the social pressure, knowing Father did such a thing would be reason enough for him not to renege."

Grandfather nodded and left me.

Chapter 13

Mr. Jakobe was waiting when I turned. "Is everything all right, sir? The raised voices caused the kitchen staff alarm."

I nodded and smiled. "Yes, everything is handled. Even though there were raised voices, it was done peaceably enough. Please ensure Baron Livingstone leaves the estate." I sighed. "Today, I fear, is going to be a long day. I need to change, Mr. Jakobe. Could you please also send word to the stables to have my horse readied for travel? I wish to stop and check on the lad who broke his leg yesterday, before my trip, to speak with my uncle."

My butler nodded. "Of course, sir. Your horse will be waiting for you."

I thanked him again. "Oh, I think you will be pleased to know, Mr. Jones will be marrying Faith."

Mr. Jakobe smiled before heading to pass the word to the stables.

I retired to my chamber and quickly changed into attire appropriate for a ride, tucking the letters from Grandfather and Aunt Lola into my tailcoat pocket. I just hoped I could make it back in time for bed.

I spurred my mount into motion and rode at a canter the entire way to my tenant farm. By the time I arrived, the high spirits of my horse were settled.

The farmer was tending the pigs as I rode in. Upon seeing me, he stopped what he was doing and smiled.

"Sir, I don't know how to thank you!" he exclaimed as I dismounted.

I shook his hand. "No thanks are necessary. How is the lad? Was the doctor able to help?"

He bobbed his head. "Yes, sir. The doctor gave laudanum before setting the bone. Then he wrapped mi boy's leg in cloth and plaster-of-paris of all things. He's in bed now."

"I understand using plaster-of-paris is a new technique, but one gaining popularity. How long will your boy be abed?"

The farmer shook his head and shrugged. "God knows, sir. The doctor mentioned it could be weeks."

My brow furrowed as I frowned. "Let me know if the strain on the farm is too much. The harvest will be soon."

He nodded again. "Yes, sir."

"Good. I pray your son will recover fully. I must be off now." With that, I left the farmer and rode hard for the train station.

I stabled my horse at the livery stable across from the station and purchased my ticket. I also sent a telegram to my uncle to inform him when I should arrive.

I had a few minutes to wait before the train was due, so I purchased a copy of 'The Times' and settled in to wait.

Soon enough, I was on the train heading north. The trip was bumpy and just over an hour long, but the accommodations were comfortable.

Upon dismounting the train, I looked about. It didn't take long to spot Uncle Aubrey standing on the platform. I smiled and waved.

Waiting to be alone, we dispensed with the immediate formalities. He led me to his waiting Curricle. We boarded the carriage, and he had the horses speeding us to his estate out of town.

"Roderick, it is good to see you again. But pray tell, what trouble is keeping my wife from me? Her letters are so vague."

I sighed. "Uncle, you are not going to like this," I said, drawing the letters from my coat. "I asked Grandfather and Aunt Lola to write these to explain the situation before I get to why I am here."

We traded burdens; I took control of the curricle, and he accepted the letters.

I drove in silence while he read first Grandfather's letter and then his wife's. I glanced at him from time to time, and from his facial expressions and the red rising in his face, I knew he was incensed.

Finally, he lowered the last letter. He stared straight ahead, breathing deeply. A few moments later, his colour returned to normal, and he took back the reins.

He glanced at me once. "Go ahead."

I didn't know whether to smile or not. "Uncle Aubrey. Despite what has been thrust upon us, I love Edith. I have always loved her. I planned to speak to you shortly after she arrived to court her. Now things have changed. I would like your blessing to marry Edith."

Though I spoke the words in a clear and steady voice, my heart pounded in my chest. I knew we would marry no matter the answer, but I wanted my uncle's blessing.

At first, Uncle Aubrey did not say anything. I glanced at him nervously.

Minutes later, he nodded. "Roderick, your grandfather and aunt spoke highly of you in their letters. Explaining how you did what you did to protect the women." I nodded my agreement. "If you continue to protect Edith, as you have done, you have my blessing."

I let out a breath, which I didn't realize I was holding. "Thank you, Uncle!" Despite the impropriety, in my exuberance, I hugged him. Luckily there were no others on the road to see my indiscretion.

Uncle laughed, giving me a pat on the shoulder, before pushing me away.

"Roderick, the letters truly didn't tell much. Please tell me everything from the beginning," Uncle asked as he turned into his lane.

"I will, Uncle. I promise, but we should wait until we can be alone. This is something best left guarded."

He nodded. "Yes, I suppose you are right."

Once Uncle parked the curricle, we went inside to his library. We were served drinks, and a light meal, before the servants were sent away.

I told the story in its entirety, from the invasion of my house to that very morning, purchasing my mother and sister.

"--And now I'm here," I finished, taking a drink of brandy.

Uncle shook his head. "That is a fantastical story, Roderick. It is hard to believe. Especially that Baron Livingstone would be willing to sell his wife and daughter. And to his own son no less!"

I couldn't help but nod my agreement. "Very true, sir! I think-- I hope, that the stigma of such a claim, Father will uphold his end of the bargain."

"I pray you are right, Roderick. I must go to the capital in the coming weeks. I'll ensure, as much as I am able, that he does uphold his obligations."

I smiled. "Thank you, Uncle. I truly appreciate your support in this."

Uncle Aubrey smiled back at me.

We sat in silence for a few minutes; we were each in our own thoughts.

"Before you head back, Roderick, let us speak of Edith's dowry. With your station, and that of my household, Edith's dowry should be in the tens of thousands of pounds."

I nodded my agreement with Uncle's statement.

"Due to some bad investments, I don't have the capital to cover such an expenditure at this time. However, one of my other recent investments is a small estate outside the capital. I purchased it from a young gentleman, who fancied himself a farmer and was mistaken."

We both shared a laugh.

"I purchased this estate for a little more than £12,000. It is less than Edith is worth. If you would accept this estate as her dowry, I shall continue working and managing it on your behalf. The income from the estate should help to cover the difference in costs."

I smiled across the table in Uncle's richly appointed library. "Uncle, if Edith had no dowry, it would matter not to me. I love her, not the money she brings to me. I accept your proposal." I glanced at the clock on the mantle. "I should be going if I hope to make it back before supper. Uncle, have your solicitor draft the contract, I shall look it over, and we shall complete the deal."

Uncle Aubrey smiled, and we stood. He reached out across the table and shook hands.

As my uncle led me out of the house, he said, "Roderick, honestly, I hoped Edith would find someone to love, and I'm glad she has; at least that is what her mother tells me. When your aunt told me of your infatuation with Edith so many years ago, I did not like the idea. I thought that Edith should not marry her cousin. However, looking at the man you've become, I know Edith could have chosen worse."

"Thank you, Uncle."

We spoke for a few moments more on the step as the grooms brought the curricle around.

"Maxwell, here will see you to the train station. Safe travels, Roderick."