Free Captain Wentworth's Persuasion by Regina Jeffers

down to Taunton in order to look at some advertised places in that immediate neighborhood, which, however, did not suit him. Upon accident, we heard from a local innkeeper the possibility of Kellynch Hall being to let. It took Benjamin no time to introduce himself to Mr. Shepherd, Sir Walter Elliot’s solicitor. My husband made particular inquiries, and, in the course of a pretty long conference, expressed as strong an inclination for the place as a man who knew it only by description, could feel, and gave Mr. Shepherd, in his explicit account of himself, every proof of his being a most responsible, eligible tenant.
    Frederick took a seat. Sophia’s news dredged up memories and stirred up feelings he had hoped were dead.
    Benjamin did not quibble about the price, as he should have. He let Mr. Shepherd know he only wanted a comfortable home and to get into it as soon as possible—knew he must pay for his convenience—knew what rent a ready-furnished house of that consequence might fetch—should not have been surprised if Sir Walter had asked more. Of course, I asked more questions about the house and terms and
taxes than the Admiral himself. I even explained to the solicitor my connection to Somersetshire—Edward having lived in Monkford a few years back.
    Several weeks later, we toured the manor, and I met the infamous Miss Elizabeth Elliot. I found I often had to keep my tongue in check in order not to offend her sensibilities; yet, we parted with each of us well disposed for an agreement. Benjamin’s hearty good humor and open, trusting liberality could not help but influence Sir Walter. The house and grounds and furniture were approved; Mr. Shepherd’s clerks were set to work, without there having been a single preliminary difference to modify of all that ‘This indenture sheweth.’The Admiral, with sympathetic cordiality observed as we drove back through the Park,‘I thought we should soon come to a deal, my Dear, in spite of what they told us at Taunton. The baronet will never set the Thames on fire, but there seems no harm in him.’The long and the short of it is, my Dear Brother, we take possession of Kellynch Hall at Michaelmas.When you come to us in October, you must return to the area where you spent five weeks with Edward in ’06.You are probably more familiar with Kellynch than either the Admiral or I am at this point. I am sure after having spent time in the neighborhood, you already understand what I do not say about Sir Walter or Miss Elizabeth Elliot. Sir Walter must be to Bath to save his reputation and to keep his creditors at bay, but his inability to manage his life gives Benjamin and me a fine home to share with you.
    Until we meet, I remain your loving sister,
SC
    Frederick let out the breath he had not realized he was holding. He had already made a commitment to visit his sister, but how could he go to Kellynch Hall? For many years the place haunted his dreams. What excuse could he give? Bonaparte was banished to Elba, and as the war dwindled down, Frederick repeatedly let it be known that, barring any new uprisings, he would take his newly made fortune and return to civilian life. Now, Sophia expected him to come to her. How this news trifled with his feelings! His heart
was still in Somersetshire; his match with Anne Elliot would not have been the most advantageous match imaginable in the eyes of society, but marriage was not impossible for them. Anne had acted dishonorably by breaking off her engagement to him.
    How can I return to Somersetshire? he silently demanded. He searched the letter again, wondering why Sophia did not mention Anne. Could it be that she no longer lived in the area? Had she married at last? It had been eight years, after all. How soon had she married once she broke their engagement? Did Anne have children of her own? Some part of him wished her happy while a more dominate urge wished some form of revenge. A sarcastic laugh escaped his throat. “Is it not revenge