His Lady Mistress

Elizabeth Rolls269‘But, what?’ demanded Max.Harding hesitated, then squared his shoulders and said,‘Well, sir, I got the idea that leaving before you woke up waswhy she was leaving so early. Just gone five it was when thechaise was at the door.’Horrified, Max looked at the clock. Past two. She could beanywhere by now! ‘Harding, where did she...?’‘Blakeney, sir. I...I believe she left a note for you. In thelibrary.’Some slight relief made it possible for Max to breatheagain as he strode to the library. Blakeney. That was something.She hadn’t left him. Yet. After last night... He groanedmentally. He couldn’t quite recall what he’d said—she’dcome to him. And he’d nearly forced her into submission.He found the note easily enough, propped up against a vaseon the chimney piece. Taking it to the desk, he found hisletter knife and broke the seal.Dearest Max,Please don’t be angry with Harding for letting me go.He tried very hard to stop me.I have gone to Blakeney because after last night Ithink it is better that we do not see each other again.Please believe that I did not come to you with the intentionof teasing or tempting you. I know you do notwant me as your wife. And I cannot bear to be the causeof further pain for you. Almeria explained to me yesterdayafternoon the promise you had made to your mother.I quite understand, Max. If I had known I would neverhave permitted you to marry me.If you do not wish to formally dissolve our marriage,could you please let me know upon which of yoursmaller properties you would wish me to reside. I haveno desire to live in London, or anywhere that we maymeet each other.Verity