Chapter Twenty-Five
Isabella thought she understood why Harriet had changed her mind about marrying Major Reynolds. Her grandfather had disowned her, her aunt had emigrated, and her last communication with Mr. Fernyhough had been a letter of farewell.
Harriet was afraid of the major, but she was even more afraid of earning her living.
Isabella remembered the list the girl had given her yesterday: Invalid’s Companion, Seamstress, Trimming Hats, Lady’s Maid. A daunting future for a gently reared girl.
Viewed dispassionately, marriage to Major Reynolds was a sensible choice. He might be an ogre, but he was an ogre who would take care of her. Isabella couldn’t despise the girl for her change of heart. Many women in England had made similar decisions.
Harriet was in her bedchamber. One gla
