Chapter 17
The breakfast dishes had barely been cleared when a great commotion set up from the front door. Will and Dearne exchanged glances, and Augustus leaped up from his chair.
“Could that be your parents?” Araminta said.
“I imagine. Can’t think of anyone else who would arrive in such a hubbub, can you?”
Will watched the colour drain from Lady Araminta’s face, and he was fairly sure Miss Rose took hold of her hand underneath the table.
“Your father will be most surprised to find Maxie here,” she said.
Augustus looked at his aunt, a frown gathering on his brow. “You mean you didn’t tell him he was alive?”
“I may have failed to mention it.”
Dearne stood up and held up a hand. “Please, it is of no account. Minty, I am sure my brother will be delighted to find me hale and hearty ra
