Dignity and Depravity

Chapter XIV

Before long, the entire ballroom at Eagleton Manor was brimming with a sea of fine muslin, silk, embroidery and ribbon.  Luckily, men also attended in full form and Amelia hoped very few would be left in want of a partner once the dancing commenced.   The level of finery on display spoke to the utmost respect that the guests had for the Dyer family.   Perhaps it also spoke to the wishes of each family to secure eligible suitors for their young women before they became too preoccupied with the hunting season to pursue young burds in petticoats and lace. 

Each guest paid their respects kindly as Amelia greeted them by the entrance of the ballroom.  Many remarked on the diligent attention to detail that must have transpired in planning the evening, and more still pronounced the welcoming atmosphere the most pleasant Eagleton Manor has ever seen.  The weight of such a heavy compliment did not escape Amelia, and she was pleased to receive it. Kind praise became the catalyst in transforming any remaining trepidation into merriment. 

Amelia also was pleased to note that John was taking his role as host earnestly.  He gallantly circulated about the room, politely welcoming the guests and making necessary introductions.  Much attention was paid to ensure that all the young men were introduced to the young women so that partners may be reserved for dancing.  All ladies should dance lest the room become full of wall-flowers, and their presence clash with the drapery.  Furthermore, one could not have unreasonable delay in commencing the anticipated amusement.  Such a scandal would cause the young dancers to lose self-complacency and cast a reflection of dullness upon the soirée.

Mr. Archer appeared in the most affable light, and seemed to be gratified with the introductions afforded to him by both John and her own family.  Lottie had taken a particular delight in ensuring that Mr. Archer was introduced to all the most eligible young ladies.  Had Amelia less sense, she would find herself bristling at her dear sister's forceful presentation of Mr. Archer as such a ready bachelor.  She had no doubt that many a fine young lady would soon set her cap at him based on his handsome looks.  Should he secure a feather to fly with, he may soon find himself flocking to the altar. 

Yet, Amelia suspected that Mr. Archer would not be so willing to fall into the trap of a gilded cage for just any tempting armful.  There was something in his studied countenance that belied an emotional intelligence that was uncanny to any other man she had met at this point in her life.  He is not easily swayed by a pretty face or a lacy petticoat, she thought, rather he need a strong woman who knows her mind.  I shall be all astonishment should anything less than a bluestocking tempt him.

Amelia's cogitation was interrupted as the musicians began to play the prelude to the minuet.  Amelia caught John's eye from across the room and he swiftly moved through the crowd to join his wife.  Taking her left hand gently in his, John squeezed it covertly as he guided her to the center of the dance floor.  All eyes were on the Maître and Maîtress du bal  as they paid honours to their audience, then faced each other to commence the dance.  Never before had Amelia taking on the role of principle couple in such an exhibitory dance, and the scrutiny inflicted in that very moment might have made a lesser woman balk.  However, Amelia showed no fear as the dulcet tones of The Devonshire Minuet began to play.

John and Amelia were knowingly calm as they had shared a dancing master for many years, and they had memorized many complicated steps together in their youth.  Practice that began as youthful folly had tempered and became more seasoned over time.  As their affections for each other grew, their dancing lessons had become some of their most cherished interactions.  Gazing into John's eyes, Amelia felt confident that those hours of prolonged and careful study would guide her feet in exacting the graceful steps.  Amelia lifted the train of her gown and began to dance.