Dignity and Depravity

Chapter XII

The immediate days after the arrival of Mr. Archer were so full of preparations for the Eagleton ball that Amelia scarce had a moment to spare for her visitant. Notwithstanding having sent invitations in a more belated time frame than is considered fashionable, almost every invitee had replied in the affirmative. Amelia was delighted and expected the ballroom to be filled with a joyous multitude. Whispers in society had been kind to the new Mrs. Dyer. Forgiveness was encouraged for the breach in etiquette as the Eagleton ball was expected to be the event of the season. Fortuitously, the ball was also set to be on the penultimate day of August, and would allow the gentleman to have one day of repose before the start of the hunting season. Any doubt that gentleman would be scare was therefore displaced by the aspiration of every young woman to be occupied for every dance.

The day of the ball, Amelia awoke betimes with her emotions a flurry. In short order, she tucked her hair beneath a lacy cap and put on her oldest gown before going down to instruct the household's final preparations. Her first sojourn was the drawing room to partake in a small breakfast. She hastily entered and crossed to the sideboard without a second glance. She grabbed a slice of cake and began to eat while leaning against the furniture. Deep in thought, she failed to notice that Mr. Archer was sitting in the chaise near the window, book in hand, just barely out of view.

From his veil, Thomas observed her actions and smiled inwardly. Anew he found himself privy to Mrs. Dyer in a state of discomposed appearance; it was endearing. Her posture was prepossessing and free from the constraints of civil dictates. Thomas was confounded by the impact of her natural charm and easy manner on his heart. Impropriety brightens her cheeks, he thought, though I do not want to disturb her with my presence. Hoping to be quiet as a mouse and conceal himself further from view, Thomas uncrossed his legs and turned in the direction of the window. Regrettably, he forthwith knocked his book to the floor with a great clatter.

Amelia started, dropping the remains of cake on the floor as she rushed to right her posture. "Mr. Archer!" she exclaimed. Thomas hesitantly rose from his seat, and made to walk towards Mrs. Dyer but instead stopped abruptly. Silence impregnated the room as the individuals tentatively regarded one other. Each attempted to obscure the contrariety of emotion the situation excited. Amazement, shame, and unsurety took precedence and neither spoke. In due course, eager to dismiss herself, Amelia brushed the crumbs from her face and skirt, squared her shoulders and lightly curtsied.

"I trust you slept well, Mr. Archer."

"Erm, yes, thank you Mrs. Dyer."

"Pray do not let me interrupt your solitude. Please continue reading. There are many arrangements that require my attention today."

"Why, yes, of course. I shall engage myself and aspire to remain inconspicuous, rather than underfoot."

"You may wish to revisit the use of books then," Amelia said with a smile. "This particular tome seems too emphatic for such purposes."

Thomas bent down to pick up the offending book from the floor, his expression softening in response to Mrs. Dyer's quip. "That is most sound advice.  Perhaps I should take a turn about the grounds instead."

As Mr. Archer raised his eyes, Amelia was struck at the delicate countenance in which he regarded her. Twice he had witnessed actions not befitting an accomplished woman, but did not appear put off. Rather, he was amused and forwardly encouraged her biting remarks. So curious, thought Amelia.

"There is a fine view of the county from atop the hill."

"Thank you." Mr. Archer bowed deeply and exited the room.

As soon as he crossed the threshold, Amelia emitted a large breath. Her nerves were preoccupied with planning for the evening, and she did not wish to fret about Mr. Archer. The horror of acting informally in his presence oppressed her, yet she hastily stashed her feelings in order to fuss over the matters at hand. Collecting her abandoned cake from underfoot, Amelia tidied her breakfast items and hurried to inspect the progress.