Free Louise M. Gouge by A Proper Companion

something had startled her into a run? Anna prayed she would develop both aptitude and proficiency very soon. And a much better attitude would not hurt. So when Lord Greystone met Anna and the major in the front entry and asked her how the lesson went, she put on her best face.
    “Major Grenville is a remarkable instructor. I am certain I shall become competent enough on horseback to please Lady Greystone.” She ended in a rush, for this was the first time she had addressed the viscount. Or any peer.
    “Ah, yes, I have no doubt my brother is an excellent riding teacher.” Lord Greystone chuckled and nudged the major, who scowled at him. “And if you manage to please my mother, madam, you will have accomplished something no mortal has yet been able to do these past seven and forty years.” He sauntered away, still laughing, but not before he cast a smirk in the major’s direction.
    Still scowling, the major stiffened. He stalked away, but then turned and strode back to her. “Miss Newfield, it has been a pleasure.” He bowed over her hand without smiling, then left her.
    Anna stood in the center of the marble-floored entryway trying to guess what this little scene meant. She had no doubt the brothers cared deeply for one another and probably teased each other just as she and Peter always did. But the moment they encountered the viscount, the major became defensive. Perhaps they had quarreled. With a sigh, she climbed the marble stairway, resolving to pray for the brothers, that they might dwell together in unity.
    As she passed the door to Lady Greystone’s suite, Mrs. Hudson emerged and curtseyed. “Did the habit suit you, miss?”
    “Yes, thank you.” How odd to have this older woman treat her with such deference. “I could not have altered it without your help.”
    Mrs. Hudson’s pale blue eyes brightened. “Why, thank you, miss. You’re kind to say so.”
    Her genuine surprise at the compliment gave Anna pause. She had much to learn about the complex social levels among the servants.
    “Mrs. Hudson, perhaps you can advise me about something.”
    Again, shock registered across the woman’s pale, wrinkled features. “I’d be honored to help, miss. What is it?”
    “Well, you see, I am not certain what my duties are as a companion. How is my job different from yours?”
    Mrs. Hudson drew back. “Such a question, miss.”
    For a moment, Anna thought she might walk away. Instead, she straightened her shoulders and lifted her chin. “I have the privilege of seeing to all of Lady Greystone’s personal matters regarding clothing and hair. She is a most meticulous lady and knows exactly what she wants. My job is to be in or near her chambers at all times in case she requires my services, and to make certain she is dressed fit to meet the most august personage, even the Queen.”
    “Ah, yes. I noticed her perfection the moment I first saw her. And you are the one who’s responsible.” She did not intend to flatter the woman, but her words sparked a blush of pleasure.
    “I do try.” Mrs. Hudson continued to beam. “As to your duties, miss, you’re to be at the ready, as well, but you are privileged to accompany Her Ladyship wherever she goes. That is, wherever she wants you to go. She may have you read to her or fetch a fan or deliver a message to a servant or perform any other such errand. Sometimes she will want you simply to be with her.”
    “I see.” Now Anna understood the viscountess’s comment about youthful energy, for this job would certainly require that. “Should I wait to be sent for at mealtime?” She had not gone down to the breakfast room this morning and was beginning to feel the effects of that omission.
    “Unless Lady Greystone or His Lordship has a guest, you may assume you should be present at every meal.” Mrs. Hudson wrinkled her forehead. “And of course, it depends upon who the guest is.”
    “Very good. Thank you so much, Mrs. Hudson.” While this conversation did not