Brougham Park

Chapter 11

The visit to Berkley Manor had indeed proven to be fruitful. Samantha and Kitty were delighted to have spent quality time with Miss Harris, while William and Mr. Harris chose to partake in the pleasures of horse riding. The new horses, recently acquired by Mr. Harris, were to be ridden for the first time since their arrival at the manor.

In the elegant drawing room, Miss Harris graciously called for some tea and biscuits to regale her guests. Samantha had found her to be a young lady of delightful disposition, exuding the charms of a true gentlewoman with impeccable breeding. Kitty, in particular, had developed an endearment for Miss Harris, for she discovered that her new acquaintance shared an equal fondness for music, akin to Kitty's own passion.

Following their pleasant tea, Miss Harris ushered her guests into the music room, a realm of exquisite aesthetics. The room was adorned with tasteful decor, though it remained uncluttered. An exquisite pianoforte graced one corner, and a majestic harp stood proudly in proximity to the piano. Two inviting sofas were thoughtfully placed not too distant from the instruments, allowing the audience to savour the harmonious melodies that would soon fill the air. Between the sofas rested an ornate coffee table, its presence adding a touch of refinement to the room's ambiance. The large windows were elegantly adorned with heavy, golden-hued curtains, adding a resplendent aura to the space.

In this opulent setting, the music room came alive with anticipation as Miss Harris prepared to showcase her musical talent. Catherine, enthralled by the prospect of joining in the performance, gracefully approached the pianoforte and stood beside Miss Harris, attentively turning the pages of the music book as her friend played the instrument with remarkable skill. Samantha settled herself comfortably on the sofa, her eyes fixed on the duo, ready to be enchanted by the melodious voice of the young singer.

As the first notes of the song filled the air, the room seemed to be filled with an ethereal aura. A beautiful duet unfolded, as Kitty seamlessly joined her voice with that of Eleanor's, their harmonious melodies intertwining in a breathtaking display of musical finesse.

Samantha's heart soared as she listened, her admiration for her brother's affectionate interest growing even more. Watching Kitty and Eleanor perform together, she could not help but feel a surge of joy, realising the connection they shared through their mutual love for music. The harmony they created symbolised not just their musical talents but also the bonds of friendship that had been forged in the short span of their acquaintance.

As Eleanor hit the final note on the instrument, Samantha stood up and applauded the two female performers, her smile reflecting her genuine pleasure in witnessing such a beautiful performance.

"Well played, Miss Harris. You are truly remarkable." Samantha poured forth her praises, her admiration for Eleanor's musical prowess evident in her voice.

Catherine joined her too. "Indeed, Miss Harris. You must have learnt from the masters in London. You are undeniably an accomplished woman."

"Thank you. My brother made sure I received a good education in music. By the by, please do not address me as Miss Harris. You can call me Eleanor, for we are friends now, aren't we?" Miss Harris kindly requested.

"Of course, Miss Harris— I mean, Eleanor. You live so close by, you should often come to visit us at Brougham Park. You are always welcome." Samantha warmly assured her.

"You both, too, are most welcomed to come here at any time you please." Eleanor extended her invitation.

"That is very kind of you," Kitty responded, her fondness for their newfound friend evident in her words.

"I have heard your brother saying once that you both could play as well. Come, I would really like to hear you both play." Eleanor requested eagerly.

"Oh no. I do not really play. Catherine is the star performer in our family. Catherine shall play." Samantha replied, modestly deferring the spotlight to her talented sister.