The Governess

Chapter 4 -- The Champagne Gown

Chapter 4 

The Champagne Gown

That first meeting had been awful. Still she thought of it, but now it held a less significant place in her mind compared to their first meal together, and now, even more disturbing-the library. Did she wish to remain here after that episode? Nervous, she shuttered. If only she could be assured it would not be repeated. If only she could remain here safely. If only security could be found where men were concerned. If only.  

Her thoughts again returned to yesterday.

***

"This way, if you please, miss."  

As the housekeeper, Mrs. Thompson, stiffly escorted Carly to her room, Carly felt overwhelmed. What a fine beginning! And such a personable master, too. Humph! She was surprised she had made it this far today. And her temper? Goodness, she was daft. To tempt such a man under these circumstances certainly tempted fate.  

After shaking so badly all through their interview, her muscles ached, let alone from the long, exhausting journey here. And to think that he had just informed her of new stipulations-stipulations that had not been mentioned or put in place previously-that of proving herself before allowed to see the children. Horrible man!  

As they walked, the housekeeper explained, "Your chambers are here amongst the family's private rooms. Quite a privilege." Sniffing with disapproval, she continued, "The nursery and schoolroom are adjacent to yours and Nanny Wilder's room on the other side. The children's doorway is just here."  

Following with her eyes as the housekeeper pointed to a door down the hallway, Carly thought to herself that she agreed with the housekeeper. She was surprised to be placed so intimately amongst the family's rooms. How strange, she thought. Especially strange after having just met Lord Huntington. The housekeeper noticed her furrowed brow. Carly tried her best to look placid.  

Continuing, Mrs. Thompson explained, "Guest rooms are on the floor above this one." She looked at Carly as if to say, if it were left to me, you would be on a different level as well. Carly hoped soon she could find friendship with this most important servant of the household. For now, it seemed an impossible task.  

As the housekeeper approached the door meant for the governess, they heard laughter coming from behind that very door. Suddenly, two young chambermaids burst from the room in a great hurry. They nearly trampled the stone-faced housekeeper who was now piercing them with a most severe gaze. Their giggles halted. The air filled with a palpable tension. Apparently, laughter was forbidden? So was running over your superior. It was obvious to Carly that they should have been finished before now by the looks upon their faces. The continued scowl upon Mrs. Thompson's countenance made it clear that it was 'all of the above'.  

Carly felt for the anxious chambermaids in their evident trouble. Curtsying to both the housekeeper and to Carly, the nervous chambermaids took their conversation with them as they headed for the servant's stairs-in silence. Mrs. Thompson added, as soon as the maids were out of range, "I do hope you find their work on your room satisfactory, Miss Blakemore." After a pause, she added, "And I expect to hear about it if you do not." Carly nodded in compliance at the stern look upon Mrs. Thompson's face, reminding her all too well of wicked, mean Aunt Matilda. Even death had not removed her severe frown.  

All disturbing thoughts were dismissed upon entering her bedchamber. Admittedly, her room was much better than she could ever have hoped. In fact, it was spectacular. As young girls, Carly and her sister had read a book about a governess that lived in a tiny, impersonal room with only a small bed, lamp and lamp table, small wardrobe, and fireplace. Of course, they were the only necessities the governess needed, but how dreary and inconsiderate of the master, they were sure. Not even a rocking chair! Their discussion on the subject had been quite impassioned and detailed. Apparently, she had worried about nothing.