A Christmas Surprise Read Online Free Page A

“The reason your father and I wanted her to receive most of the same training as you is because of whom her mother was.”
    “A countess, yes Mother. I’ve known for several years but didn’t say anything because I knew you’d tell her and me when the time was right.”
    Stunned Aleece knew the truth, Eleanor rubbed her hands together as she tried to collect her thoughts.
    “I am not going to ask how you found out only to say thank you for keeping it to yourself. For her safety, and now is not the time to go into why, her true identity must remain a secret.
    “That I can understand and agree with you. So the reason to have her accompany me is to start introducing her into society. With this house party being small it will be a good way to begin.”
    “Yes, that was our thoughts entirely. Now, shall we tell Debbi she is going as your companion?” Eleanor rang the tea bell and in a moment Mrs. Linna arrived.
    “Please ask Debbi to join us for tea.”
    “Yes, Your Grace.”
    ****
    Lady Aleece wanted to laugh at the surprised expression on Debbi’s face. The duchess having only a short time ago informed her she was going to act as chaperone during the house party.
    “It’s all right, Debbi, mother and I spoke with the countess and she doesn’t have any problem with you attending in that capacity,” Aleece said, giving her maid and confidante a hug.
    “But what about the other guests? They know I’m a lady’s maid. If they see me with you instead of going about my duties, there’ll be talk. At the house parties I’ve gone to as your lady’s maid I’ve seen the things that go on. Oh, I’m not talking about the kissing and sneaking around at night, but the games and such. I just know I wouldn’t fit in. Please, Your Grace, can’t someone else be her chaperone?” Debbi pleaded.
    “Debbi, everything will be fine. If there is something you don’t or can’t do, there’s no reason you couldn’t sit out that activity. Right, Mother?”
    “Yes, darling,” Eleanor said, then turned to the still distraught girl. “And that also includes taking your meals with the guests. I know over the years Aleece has schooled you in the finer arts of formal dining, but you haven’t had to put the skills to the test.”
    “You can always beg off and take your meals with the staff if that would make you more comfortable. Better still, have a tray sent to the room we’ll be sharing,” Aleece said.
    Aleece was pleased that the hurdle had been successfully surmounted when she saw Debbi nod.
    “But all I have are the gray lady’s maid outfits. Nothing nearly fancy enough to wear or be seen in,” Debbi announced.
    “Ah, but that is where you are very wrong. You have a closet full. Do not forget you and my daughter are the same size, so you will be able to wear some of her dresses and such,” the duchess announced with a satisfied smile.
    Aleece took Debbi by the arm and started to leave only to halt at the door. She leaned over to her and whispered, “And if anyone is disrespectful of you they will answer to me.” She glanced back to see if her mother heard. The smile and wink she got told her yes. Then in a slightly louder voice, “Remind me to pack my sabre.”
    “Do not you dare take that thing. It is too unladylike,” the duchess declared.
    “I was only teasing, Mother. I’m sure the earl has one I can borrow if need be.” With that the two ladies departed.
    The next morning, after breaking their fast, Aleece and Debbi were handed up into the carriage for the four-hour drive to the Earl of Whitchurch’s estate.
    “Debbi, I’m jealous of you in that traveling dress. I love it, but with your coloring, it seems to suit you so much better,” Aleece announced as she settled herself on the seat.
    “Thank you, m’ lady. Did you see the look the footman gave me when I came out? I’ve never seen such an expression on a man before. It made me feel truly strange.”
    “How so?” Aleece inquired with a raised