Brougham Park

Chapter 19

The rest of the assembly was spent in a pleasant manner. The entire party had tremendous fun throughout the evening. The Carters had arranged it in such a way that there was no room for complaints.

William had danced his first with Eleanor. Samantha, who had observed the pair while dancing with Mr Crew, had noted that Eleanor is now much more open in her feelings and Samantha is very much sure that she will soon reciprocate William's feelings.

In the second set, Kitty was Charles's dance partner, and Samantha found herself claimed by Mr Harris. The music remained as graceful and melodious as in the first set, and the couples moved elegantly across the dance floor, capturing the admiration of onlookers.

"Miss Dawson, I hope I am not intruding by asking you this question," Mr Harris began as they swayed to the music.

Samantha, her curiosity piqued, met his gaze and replied, "What is it, Mr Harris? You may ask me anything."

"I have just been told by Mr Crew himself of a little excursion to Danning Hill," Mr Harris revealed.

"Danning Hill! Yes, Mr Crew was suggesting it while we were dancing earlier." Samantha added, providing context.

"What do you suggest, Miss Dawson? Will it be a good plan?"

Samantha considered the idea for a moment before responding, "I cannot say for sure myself, Mr Harris. I have never been anywhere outside of Lockwood Village in my entire life!"

"Dear me! Never? Why is it so?" Mr Harris asked, intrigued.

"You see, Papa prefers to be settled in one place, and for some unknown reason, he has a distaste for travelling," Samantha explained.

"I see. I remember William telling me that Mr Dawson was initially opposed to the idea of him travelling to London. But somehow William managed to persuade your father. Do you think he will allow you for this expedition?"

"I do have doubts about that. But I believe that with proper persuasion and with some responsible persons joining the excursion, Papa might allow us to go. But I am quite sure that he will not join it himself." Samantha replied, her tone thoughtful.

"If that is the case, then I shall take it upon myself to persuade Mr Dawson. I shall try to have him join us at least." Mr Harris assured Samantha.

"You will do that?! You cannot be serious, Mr Harris," Samantha exclaimed, her surprise evident.

"Miss Dawson, there is no need to worry. William and I will make sure that you and Miss Catherine will have the opportunity to explore beyond your locality."

"That is indeed kind of you. But why will you do that?"

"Come now, Miss Dawson. We are all friends, are we not? And friends help and support each other. We all just want you to have fun and explore something new. Do not worry. I will speak to William directly after the dance." Mr Harris reassured her with a warm smile.

When the dance was over, the couples left the dance floor towards the refreshments table and some towards their friends. Samantha did not have a partner in the third set, so she sat with Mrs Hardy and her eldest daughter.

"Mr Harris has some first rate dancing, doesn't he?" Mrs Hardy commanded the attention of her eldest daughter. "How he dances so elegantly with Lydia. But look at Lydia. She needs more training in her dance. Mary dear, you must teach your sister to dance better. I know you are a good dancer yourself."

"I do agree with you, Mama. Lydia needs some polishing in her dancing skills. I feel bad for Mr Harris having to put up with her dancing. I wish he would dance with me instead." Miss Hardy replied.