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It had been such a mistake to bring Agnes to a party hosted by Maime Fish, Ada was sure of it. Normally Agnes never agreed to go to events of any kind, and so such problems could be avoided, but for some reason she had insisted on accompanying Marian. She had been a little more overprotective of late, in her own way. Mostly, that just meant she was a little pricklier during dinner and not the absolutely shocking act of insisting on joining Marian on a night-time outing. And to a party at Mrs Fish’s no less!
Still, it was nice to be out of the house.
“And it’s such a pleasant evening,” said Ada.
She was sure that she must have said so earlier, but Marian nodded all the same. Ada smiled at her. She was a very sweet girl, even if she didn’t quite get all the way along with Agnes some of the time. Few people did, really, so it could hardly be called a mark against Marian's name.
“Yes,” said Marian, “it really is lovely out here.”
Ada looked around again at the decorations. Maime’s garden was like one enormous glittering jewel, her party theme of ice reflected in the enormous ice sculptures, tables of elaborate ice cream concoctions and, of course, the many silver decorations attached to every surface. Even the trees had been carefully wrapped in silvery paper, shining in the lamplight.
“It’s just so beautiful,” sighed Ada. “I’m glad you were able to convince Agnes to let us come, I’m sure this evening will do her a world of good.”
“I don’t know about that, but I certainly am glad you are having such a wonderful time,” said Marian. She frowned, looking behind them. “Where is Aunt Agnes?”
Ada looked around. She had been sure they’d left Agnes observing the ice sculpture display in the courtyard, but now she was nowhere to be seen. A sudden panic struck her.
“Oh dear, do you suppose she went home?” said Ada.
“Surely she would have come to find us to at least let us know,” said Marian. “Perhaps she’s talking to one of her friends elsewhere in the garden.” She looped her arm through Ada’s. “Come, let’s take a look around. We can observe more of the decorations as we go on our way as well.”
Ada smiled at her, grateful. Marian might not always be good at handling Agnes’ disapproval, but she was excellent at looking after Ada’s nerves. She saw George Russell approach them, her body tensing a little. Although she would have liked to find Agnes, she certainly did not want Agnes to find them while they were talking to any member of the Russell family.
“Mr Russell!” said Marian, who clearly had no such concerns, “I did not think to see you here this evening.”
“Miss Brook, and Miss Brook,” said George, his tone very amiable for a man Agnes often compared to the devil. “Are you having a pleasant evening?”
“Oh yes,” said Marian. “Mrs Fish certainly knows how to throw a party.”
“She does indeed,” said George.
“Is Mrs Russell with you this evening?” asked Marian. “And Larry, Gladys?”
“Larry is finishing up some business in Newport, but Gladys and Mrs Russell are about,” said George. “I believe I saw Gladys over by the porch swing with Miss Astor, and I am on a mission to procure a drink for Mrs Russell at this very moment.”
“Well, we won’t keep you,” said Ada.
“No I don’t suppose you will,” said George, amusement clear on his face as he nodded to them, continuing on his way towards the refreshments table.
“Aunt Ada,” said Marian, her tone chastising.
“If your aunt saw us speaking to that man we would never hear the end of it,” said Ada.
“I suppose not,” said Marian with a sigh. “Though I still don’t- Oh!”
She put a hand on Ada’s shoulder. Ada turned to look in the direction of Marian’s gaze, letting out a gasp of her own. Agnes was standing just a little way off and she was talking to Mrs Bertha Russell .
Ada felt a little faint.
“Aunt Ada, are you alright?” said Marian.
“Oh, dear, do you suppose we ought to go over to them?” said Ada, a fluttering feeling of panic rising up in her chest.
“I… don’t know,” said Marian, frowning. “It doesn’t look like they’re about to cause a scene, if that’s your concern.”
Ada risked another look towards Agnes and Bertha. They were standing close together, obviously speaking quietly, their faces very serious. As she watched, Agnes gave a little huff of breath, a sign of frustration, and Bertha inclined her head, as though to agree with the sentiment. If Ada didn't know any better she would have said that it looked as though they were getting along.
“I wonder what it is that they have found in common,” said Ada.
“Whatever it is, I am grateful,” said Marian. “Shall we continue our promenade? I believe there are more sculptures around the side of the house.”
“Oh- Yes, I suppose,” said Ada.
By the time they had made their circle of the house, Agnes was waiting for them right where they had left her without any sign of Bertha.
“There you are,” said Agnes, seeming just like her usual self. “I suppose you’ve been enjoying yourselves, galavanting around the party without me?”
“We did look for you,” said Ada, “but you seemed… otherwise engaged.”
Agnes hummed. “Yes, well. I don’t know about the two of you but I am quite ready to leave.”
“I suppose it is rather late,” said Ada, looking to Marian. “Unless you’d rather stay on dear? I’m sure we can find someone to give you a ride back.”
“Oh, do you need some assistance?” said a woman to their left. “I’d be happy to give you a ride in our carriage later on.”
Agnes shot the woman the kind of glare that could strip paint from walls. “No, thank you.”
The woman blinked. “It was merely an offer, from one party guest to another. It would be my pleasure to help, if only to become a little better acquainted with Miss Brook. I've heard so much about you since returning to the city.”
“A shame that you will have to remain without the connection,” said Agnes. “Come along, Ada, Marian.”
Ada hurried to follow after her.
“Aunt Agnes, really -” began Marian.
“ Not here,” said Agnes, signalling to one of the footmen to prepare their carriage.
They waited in silence as the carriage pulled up in front of them. Ada waited to speak until they were in motion, the sound of the party fading a little.
“It was perhaps a little rude of you dear,” said Ada. “Marian might have had fun with that young woman, whoever she was.”
“Her name is Mrs Winterton,” said Agnes, her lip curling in disgust. “The new Mrs Winterton. And you are not to associate with her. It's bad enough that Oscar was very nearly pulled into her orbit!”
Agnes clicked her tongue, shaking her head. Ada had read a pamphlet on vibrations and extra sensory perceptions the previous week, and she wondered if Oscar could feel the vibration of his mother's irritation at whatever association he'd had with Mrs Winterton.
“How exactly does she know Oscar?” asked Marian.
“She doesn't,” said Agnes sharply. “And thank god for that.”
“Then what could she possibly have done?” said Marian. “You don’t even know her.”
“You don’t know everyone in my acquaintance,” said Agnes, “and this is not a discussion.”
Marian let out a quiet sigh, looking out through the window for a long moment. “But we are allowed to associate with the Russells?”
“ Marian ,” said Ada.
“I saw her talking to Mrs Russell, we both did,” said Marian. “If your mind can be changed about one, then why not the other?”
“Because we must keep to some moral standard,” said Agnes. “Now, we will speak of it no longer. It has been a dreadfully taxing evening.”
Agnes rode the rest of the way in stony silence. A deep thought must have kept her preoccupied, letting Ada fill the air with reminiscences of the ice sculptures without interruption. Her anger at least seemed lessened by the time they arrived back at the house, wishing them both a good night with no more or less brusqueness than usual.
“What do you suppose she and Mrs Russell had to talk about?” said Ada quietly, as they watched Agnes depart for her room.
“I don’t suppose we will ever know,” said Marian. “I do hope this means she will let you come to tea at the Russell’s house with me one day soon. I know you were there for the ball, but it really is lovely inside, and Mrs Russell is a wonderful host.”
“I’m sure it would be lovely,” said Ada, not wanting to squash Marian’s hopes for a better future too soon.
----
Marian paused over the letter. It was a brief note, without flowery sentiment but perfectly in line with everything she had previously received from its author. Bertha was never a particularly long-winded writer, but then Marian supposed she was very busy and without a secretary of her own. An offer for tea, with the clear implication that her aunt's were invited but not particularly expected.
It would be a sticking point for the day, no doubt. She could accept Bertha’s invitation and have what would likely be an enjoyable afternoon bracketed by at least two uncomfortable conversations with Agnes, or go without the excursion and feel as though once again she was spinning her wheels, socially. Add to that the fact that she did quite like Bertha, who always seemed to Marian to be quite lively and pleasantly sharp unless someone was deliberately provoking her, and who had never chastised Marian for not understanding the foreign customs of high society.
“Why are you making such a face?” said Agnes. “Has someone died?”
“Mrs Russell has invited me for tea tomorrow afternoon,” said Marian.
Agnes closed her eyes for a moment, visibly pained. “And I suppose you feel that you must go?”
Marian could feel Ada pause in her needlework, giving Marian a look of concern. Every argument with Agnes was hard on her, even if Agnes's ire was directed elsewhere.
“Normally I would agree, but I… I had promised Peggy we’d go shopping that afternoon,” said Marian, hoping it would be enough to push them away from an argument, or at the very least to give her cover for being out of the house if she did decide to go.
“Is there some reason why Miss Scott cannot be dragged there with you?” said Agnes. “No doubt the presence of someone of her calibre would be greater than anyone in that house. Not that I am encouraging another upstanding citizen to fall under the spell of those carpetbaggers.”
“ Agnes ,” said Ada.
“I… suppose there is no reason why she could not,” said Marian, grasping into the hope of it. “As long as you would not object?”
“That has hardly stopped you before,” said Agnes.
Marian frowned - she was certainly familiar with Agnes enough by now to know that that was not a ‘no’. She wondered what Bertha could have said to Agnes at Mrs Fish's party to provoke such a transformation, but it would certainly be unwise to bring it up.
“I will write to Mrs Russell then, I suppose, and let her know I will be bringing along Peggy if I am to come,” said Marian.
“Well I hope even someone of Mrs Russell’s level has enough sense to know a person of true character when they meet them,” said Agnes, “though I’m sure it must happen to her so rarely that she will barely have any point of comparison.”
Ada looked scandalised and, if Marian was correct in her reading of her aunt’s features, not a little worried. For Marian though, it certainly felt like some kind of victory.
“As long as you would want to go, of course,” said Marian, as she asked Peggy later that evening. “She’s said she would welcome you, but I don’t want to… presume.” She huffed a laugh. “I feel as though I’ve done quite enough of that during our friendship already.”
Peggy took her hand, squeezing a little, a sign of forgiveness for Marian’s many past errors. “It was very kind of you to think of me. If Mrs Russell has no objections, then I would love to go.”
“It really is beautiful inside,” said Marian, “just as much of a palace as they say.”
“Then it will be well worth it to see inside, even if Mrs Russell is less than welcoming to me,” said Peggy.
“If she is then we shall leave at once,” said Marian.
“I don’t want to cause trouble,” said Peggy, “for you or myself.”
“You won’t be,” said Marian. “Honestly, I think Aunt Agnes would like it if she had another reason for her dislike of the Russells, and at least that one would be justified.”
Peggy smiled, squeezing Marian’s hands again before she let go. “I suppose I will have to find something I own that’s nice enough to wear to a palace.”
Marian laughed. “Here, let’s look through your things. I’m sure you have something that’s even nicer than mine.”
The day outside was a bright one, the sky clear and the street just damp enough that they didn’t kick up dust as they crossed the road.
“Should I be bracing for any other company?” asked Peggy quietly, as they approached the door.
“I don’t think so,” said Marian. “Gladys, perhaps, or Aurora. No one who’s too much of a stranger to you or I.”
Peggy’s shoulders relaxed a little, tensing again as they approached the front door. Marian slowed her steps, taking Peggy’s hand in her’s so there could be no miscommunication between them or the Russell's footmen. Church, at least, seemed to have expected both of them, nodding to them in greeting as he met them in the entry hall.
“Good afternoon Miss Brook, Miss Scott,” said Church. “I shall inform Mrs Russell of your arrival.”
Peggy’s head tilted upwards to take in the vaulted ceiling, and Marian’s eyes followed her’s. It was certainly a sight to behold, a display of wealth unmatched outside of the grandest buildings.
“I can see why people compare the place to a palace,” said Peggy.
“And I take that as a great compliment,” said Bertha.
“Mrs Russell, how are you?” said Marian, hoping she was covering Peggy’s embarrassment and not causing any further embarrassment by speaking first.
“Oh, well enough, and busy enough,” said Bertha. “I’m glad you could come, it is always so lovely to see you.”
“And you remember Miss Scott, from our expedition with the Red Cross,” said Marian quickly. “She has recently rejoined our household as my Aunt Agnes’ secretary in addition to being a published author for The New York Globe.”
“I do indeed remember Miss Scott, and I am quite familiar with her work in The Globe. Mr Russell and I enjoyed your most recent article a great deal,” said Bertha.
Marian smiled, looking happily between Peggy and Bertha. Peggy looked a little more surprised than pleased.
“Thank you very much. I had not thought they delivered The Globe all the way out to 61st Street,” said Peggy.
“My husband and I are voracious readers of all newspapers,” said Bertha. “He will be quite jealous of my company this afternoon, I'm sure.”
“Then we will have to visit with you another time when he is home,” said Marian.
“You certainly will,” said Bertha, warmly, “as long as you don’t mind arguing about whatever is most recently in the news. As soon as my husband gets wind of a person he can speak to about such things I'm afraid he becomes quite tenacious.”
“I don't mind at all, as long as the person I’m arguing with doesn’t mind me speaking my mind,” said Peggy.
Bertha’s smile widened slightly, seeming a little more real at the edges. “He certainly does not object, otherwise I’m quite sure we would not have been married as long as we have been.”
A footman hovered in the doorway, followed by the taller figure of Church.
“Ah, I see the tea is ready,” said Bertha. “If you’ll follow me? I would be happy to give you a tour later, if you’d like.”
“Perhaps some other time,” said Marian, “I don’t know how long is… wise for me to be away.”
“Of course,” said Bertha. “I hope your aunts are both in good health?”
“Oh, yes,” said Marian. “I'm sure they'll be pleased that you asked.”
Bertha raised her eyebrows, shooting a look in Peggy's direction. “I don't know about that, but I would certainly like to think so.”
She led them into the drawing room, just as opulent as Marian remembered. Bertha turned away slightly as she sat down and Peggy raised her eyebrows, inclining her head at the enormous portrait of Bertha that hung above them. Marian pressed her lips together to swallow down the impulse to laugh.
“They're not as bad as all that,” said Peggy.
“Not at all, and I meant no offence by it,” said Bertha. “In fact, I'm sure you've guessed at the reason for your invitation.”
Marian frowned, but Peggy nodded, both of them taking a seat as Bertha gestured to the chairs opposite her.
“Mending fences would be my guess,” said Peggy.
“And because I find Miss Brook excellent company, and enjoy making my husband jealous on occasion with my choice of companions for the afternoon,” said Bertha.
“I'm glad for the invitation, and appreciative of the compliments,” said Peggy, “but I can't make any promises about changing hearts nor minds.”
“And I ask for none,” said Bertha. She paused. “Frankly, that you visited at all is far more of a victory than I had hoped.”
There was a pause as Bertha gestured for the tea to be poured.
“Your most recent article spoke of incremental change,” said Bertha. “I would be interested to hear what, if any, assistance we could offer to your cause.”
Marian sat back, feeling buoyed by the conversation. Even if it was only a display to try to swing Agnes' opinion, she was glad that this was the way Bertha had decided to do it. Marian could feel Peggy relax, just a little, only to tense up again as they heard the front door.
“Were you expecting another visitor?” asked Marian, hoping she was doing a good enough job of keeping her sudden nerves out of her voice.
“Not a visitor, but it might be my son, though I didn’t expect him to arrive home until later this evening,” said Bertha. “Please excuse me.”
Peggy gave Marian a look as Bertha stepped out of the room. Marian frowned, giving a questioning look back. Peggy looked as though she were about to speak as Bertha returned, Larry in tow. He looked a little travel worn and Marian felt a flutter of concern, standing up to greet him.
“Miss Brook,” said Larry, a smile coming over his face.
Now that she'd stepped closer she could see that he indeed looked a little tireder than when Marian had last seen him, something worn around the edges of his eyes that hadn’t been there before, but he still smiled at her. There was always such a kindness to his expression, even now, that Marian felt cheered by.
“And this is Miss Scott,” said Bertha. “I’m not sure if you have been previously introduced.”
“I… believe so, yes,” said Larry, blinking at her as though he had only just noticed the room’s other occupant. “And of course I believe I have heard your work talked about, and Marian speaks of you highly. A pleasure to see you again.”
Peggy smiled, nodding in greeting. Bertha gestured for them to sit, an act that made Larry sigh a little before he obeyed.
“Can you stay?” asked Marian.
“Oh, I don’t want to interrupt-” said Larry.
“Nonsense, we’ve only just started,” said Bertha. She waited until Larry had sat down before she added. “Oh, I’ve just remembered that I never gave our cook the approved menus for tonight, if you’ll excuse me for just one moment. I’m sure Larry is more than capable of hosting you in my absence.”
She disappeared through the doors without waiting for an answer. Peggy raised her eyebrows and Larry gave a rueful smile.
“I hope you won’t ask too much of me during my mother’s absence,” said Larry. “I’m afraid I don’t know very much about hosting a party, even one of this size.”
“I’m sure we’ll manage,” said Marian, “but it will at least give us a chance to catch up a little, I haven’t seen you since the party in Newport.”
An odd expression crossed his face. “Yes, I suppose that would have been the last time.”
Marian frowned, putting a hand on his arm. “What’s wrong?”
His expression twisted a little, as much as his gentle features would allow such an expression. “Nothing, just… my mother being my mother.”
“Is there anything I can do?” asked Marian. “I would be only too happy to be as much of a listening ear to you as you have been to me.”
She could feel Peggy’s attention go to her, almost sharply, and she felt herself flush a little under it. Luckily Larry did not seem to have noticed, simply sighing and accepting the cup of tea as she passed it to him.
“No, no,” said Larry, “but- I suppose a little distraction would be nice. What have you been up to since we last spoke? I heard you were teaching painting classes?”
Marian smiled. “Watercolours. It is just a class for young girls, nothing as interesting as architecture.”
“I think it is very interesting,” said Larry. “In fact, I insist you tell me all about it.”
By the time Bertha reemerged he seemed to be in much better spirits, even if they looked a little dampened again by his mother rejoining them.
“Still,” said Marian, as they made their way back across the street to home. “I do hope that we were able to lift his burdens a little, whatever they may be.”
“I’m sure you did,” said Peggy. “I doubt he would have noticed if I had stood on my hands and waltzed around the room for how much he was looking at you.”
Marian felt herself blush a little. “We’re just friends, only a little above acquaintances, really. We barely know each other.”
“It seemed to me that you knew quite a bit of each other,” said Peggy. “He certainly took a great interest in your work.”
“That is only because I have shown interest in his,” said Marian, “he was merely being polite. After all, it seems something of a family trait of the Russell's to take interest in the works of others.”
Peggy hummed, thinking for a moment. “Is she always like that? Mrs Russell I mean.”
“Like what?” said Marian.
“I don't know,” said Peggy. “So… interested in people’s work.”
“She did say they read your articles,” said Marian. “And I know they do quite a lot of charity work already, or at least Mrs Russell does. Though I suppose all ladies do.”
Peggy gave her a look. “Do you really believe they read my articles?”
“Mrs Russell is not really one to lie about things like that, surely,” said Marian.
“Well, even if it was only flattery, I suppose I can appreciate the effort on her part,” said Peggy. “And we'll see what comes of the promises.”
Agnes was on them as soon as they stepped through the door, Peggy giving Marian an amused look as Agnes’ voice called for them.
“Well, I'm glad you survived though I suppose I have yet to see if you are unscathed,” said Agnes.
“I hope she was nice, to both of you,” said Ada.
“Very,” said Peggy.
“Peggy has discovered a fan in Mrs Russell I think,” said Marian. “She said that she and Mr Russell have read her articles.”
“How unusual!” said Ada. “But how lovely too! Isn’t that nice Agnes?”
Agnes hummed, unimpressed. “I suppose it's certainly better than whatever that kind of thing that kind of person usually reads.” Her expression warmed slightly as she looked at Peggy. “If anyone could improve their minds, I'm sure it would be you my dear.”
“Thank you Mrs van Rijn,” said Peggy. “I certainly am getting a lot of compliments on my work today.”
“And well deserved,” said Agnes. “Now, would you like some real tea? I'm sure you must need it after suffering through whatever it was you were served over there.”
----
Ada looked over the assembled crowd around her, taking in the array of bright dresses and dashing gentlemen of all ages. Another party! This was truly a new season for their household. Usually Agnes put up such resistance to even Marian being in attendance, but here they were, at a ball, in the Russell’s home no less! Agnes hadn’t said, but Ada speculated within the privacy of her own mind that it must have been at the insistence of Mrs Astor, though she had yet to arrive.
The timing of arrivals could be such a game to some people. Ada hoped that Lina wasn’t causing some kind of offence to Bertha on purpose. Surely the Opera Wars were not so dire as that.
Marian passed by, dancing with the Russell’s boy. Ada smiled. They both seemed to be in such high spirits, a very healthy and good way for young people to be. She turned to say as much Agnes, frowning as the space where she had thought Agnes had been standing was in fact empty.
She moved away from the dancers a little, her eyes searching the crowd - there! That was the purple of Agnes’ gown, wasn’t it? And she was hiding all the way over there, which was such a shame. Ada moved towards her with the full intention of at least getting her to look at the dancing, even if she would never submit to the act herself.
“Agnes, there you are,” said Ada, “Why are you-”
“Ada, really,” huffed Agnes, over the top of her, “can’t you see that I’m in the middle of a conversation?”
Ada stepped towards her, bringing Bertha into view. Ada took half a step backwards, an act that Bertha seemed to find amusing.
“I was just saying to Mrs Russell that it's high time she came over for tea,” said Agnes.
“You were ?” said Ada.
“Well that sounds lovely. George and I are always saying we should get to know our neighbours better,” said Bertha. “I'll have to check my schedule of course but I'm sure I can find space for a visit, later this week perhaps?”
“With your husband?” asked Agnes, raising her eyebrows.
“Unfortunately I believe he will be detained at the office during the best time for our visit,” said Bertha smoothly.
“Then I suppose that will be fine,” said Agnes. She paused, looking out at the dancers. “I see your son is insisting on crowding up Marian's dance card again this evening.”
“Or one could say that she is monopolising his time,” said Bertha.
Ada went still.
The corners of Agnes's lips quirked upwards, just a tiny fraction. “I suppose one could. People do like to spin events in certain ways to please themselves.”
Bertha gave Agnes a small smile of her own. “They do indeed.” Her eyes went to somewhere behind them. “And now I must monopolise my husband’s time before someone else catches him in conversation, or I shall never get an opportunity to dance with him. If you’ll excuse me.”
“You certainly have never required my permission,” said Agnes.
Ada’s eyes went wide, but Bertha’s smile widened, just a fraction.
“No, I don’t suppose I have,” said Bertha. “Do come and see me before you leave.”
“Of course,” managed Ada.
“If we must,” said Agnes.
“Oh, I insist ,” said Bertha.
“There I suppose we must,” said Agnes, her tone was - for Agnes - almost amiable.
----
There was a flurry of activity as Marian stepped through the door, Jack, Bannister, and Bridget all rushing forward at once. Ada looked startled, and Marian put a steadying hand on her arm.
“Bannister, whatever’s the matter?” asked Ada.
“Absolutely nothing Miss Brook,” said Bannister.
“Mrs Russell’s here,” said Bridget excitedly.
Marian blinked. “ What ?”
“Oh, yes,” said Ada. “She and Agnes were speaking about it at the party at the Russell's, but I suppose I thought it had just been talk for the sake of politeness.”
“They spoke at the party?” asked Marian. “When?”
“Oh, you were dancing with the younger Mr Russell,” said Ada.
Marian wished her cheeks wouldn’t heat up every time their dancing together was mentioned. People were going to make all kinds of assumptions.
“That’s not all,” said Jack. “I heard them in there talking about that new Mrs Winterton. Turns out, she used to be-”
“That’s enough John,” said Bannister. “I’m sure the ladies would much rather prefer to go inside for tea instead of gossiping out here in the hall.”
Marian wasn’t sure about that , but she handed off her coat to Bannister all the same.
Ada eyed the door warily. “It's very quiet in there.”
Marian approached the doors cautiously as Bannister opened them. Agnes and Bertha both looked up from their position seated next to one another on the sofa.
“You both took your time,” said Agnes. “I told you we were to have tea this afternoon.”
“It must have completely slipped my mind,” said Ada. “I apologise for missing it, Mrs Russell.”
“Well you haven't missed all of it,” said Agnes. “Mrs Russell has invited us for dinner.”
“Tonight?” said Marian.
“Perhaps later this week,” said Bertha. “I'm sure my staff will appreciate the warning to bring things in line with your standards.”
“Well I don't expect anyone like yourself to go out of your way,” said Agnes. She paused. “More tea, Bannister, for the late arrivals.”
“Very good ma’am,” said Bannister.
“Mrs Russell was just telling me about their house in Newport,” said Agnes. “Apparently their son is determined to become an architect of all things.”
Bertha sighed. “Well, you know how young men are. Always very insistent that they know best.”
“Young women are much the same,” said Agnes, eyeing Marian.
“I can certainly appreciate that as well,” said Bertha.
“I never had the pleasure,” said Agnes.
“And now you do,” said Bertha, gesturing a little at Marian. “Miss Brook does you a great credit everywhere she goes.”
“I just wish she would not go so very far,” said Agnes. “And focus herself on more appropriate activities.”
“Really Aunt Agnes, you talk as if I were a showgirl instead of a teacher,” said Marian.
“But I think it is wonderful,” said Mrs Russell. “A little… unusual perhaps, for her set, but I do not see that it is so different than charity work and there are plenty of women who do such a thing, ourselves included. And there is certainly nothing wrong with seeing a little of the world before you marry. In some cases I believe that men even enjoy such a thing, that a woman has her own interests and knowledge compatible to his own. Larry is certainly very complimentary towards your niece in that regard.”
Marian shot her a grateful look, feeling her cheeks flush again at the mention of Larry. Of course he was complimentary, he was always very nice, to everyone she was sure.
“And would you let your daughter teach arithmetic to a bunch of ragamuffins?” said Agnes.
“Gladys has neither the inclination nor the aptitude for such a thing so I doubt I will ever have to face such a predicament,” said Bertha.
“I suppose next you will tell me that it is foolish to try and sway Marian into a little better judgement,” said Agnes.
“Not at all,” said Bertha. “Such a thing is a hope all mothers share.”
Inexplicably, Anges’ mouth turned up at the edges and she nodded to Bertha, taking a sip of her tea.
“Who else will be at the dinner?” asked Ada.
Marian wished she could put her hand on Ada’s to reassure her, but she sensed that Agnes would not approve of the display of perceived weakness.
“Just our little family,” said Bertha.
“Not every dinner at a palace can be a banquet, I suppose,” said Agnes.
“That is what people tell me,” said Bertha.
“I do hope you won’t have me suffering through any French monstrosities,” said Agnes.
“Aunt Agnes,” said Marian.
“I assure you, you will agree with everything,” said Bertha smoothly. “Though I can always send you a copy of the menu beforehand.”
“Don’t go too out of your way,” said Agnes.
“Not at all,” said Bertha. “Though I should say that once I approve it I am very against last minute changes.”
“It does upset the kitchen staff,” said Agnes.
“Exactly,” said Bertha. “It’s so lovely to speak to a person who understands.”
“I’m a very responsible person,” said Agnes, “there’s no need to sound so surprised.”
“I never doubted you were,” said Bertha, taking a small sip of her own teacup.
Ada gave Marian a rather wide-eyed look over the top of her own cup. Marian fumbled around for a topic of conversation that wouldn’t be akin to setting off a bomb under them.
“Will Gladys be there?” asked Marian. “For the dinner, I mean?”
“I should think so,” said Bertha. “And Larry as well, now that he is back from Newport.”
“And not a moment too soon,” said Agnes.
Bertha hummed in agreement. “Well. What mother doesn’t worry, being separated from her son?”
“Is… Will Oscar be invited?” asked Marian. “I don’t want to be presumptuous, but I wouldn’t like to think of his being left out.”
“If you consider him family then I would be delighted, and I'm sure Gladys would also, said Bertha. “Turning down a marriage proposal is no reason for two young people not to remain friends.”
“Something you were well-versed in, I imagine,” said Agnes.
“ Agnes !” said Ada.
“It’s perfectly all right Miss Brook,” said Bertha, not seeming offended in the least. In fact, she looked as though she was having a tremendous time. “I certainly believe in refusing those suitors that do not agree with you. It is really just a matter of taste.”
“On that we agree,” said Agnes. “Though we might still disagree on what constitutes good taste.”
“Many do,” said Bertha, “but I suppose that is the price one pays for being so new to it all, to be the one to broaden those narrower views.”
They shared a look, Bertha smiling a little as Agnes took another sip of her tea. Marian had no idea what to make of it, but at least they seemed to be getting along, as much as either woman was known for getting along with anyone. Perhaps now it wouldn’t be such an ordeal every time she ran into the Russells at a party.
“Speaking of new ,” said Bertha, “have you heard the latest news about the Met?”
“Oh no,” said Ada softly.
“Oh?” said Agnes mildly.
“Mrs Winterton has requested a box after all at The Met,” said Bertha. “ Apparently The Academy has asked that they step down from their’s.”
“Quite right too,” said Agnes.
“Far be it from me to say that anyone should be expelled from The Academy,” said Bertha, “but I certainly agree.”
“What did the Wintertons do?” said Ada. “Surely they can have caused no offence to Mrs Astor, they’ve had that box for years!”
“Well, you know Mrs Astor,” said Bertha. “She does very thorough background research on all new people. I suppose she must have found something she didn’t approve of in the new Mrs Winterton.”
“I’m sure she did,” said Agnes. “But, really, I tire of speaking of her . Do you have any new singers lined up since we last spoke?”
Bertha’s expression brightened. “We do indeed.”
It was one of the strangest afternoons Marian had ever spent in the Van Rhijn household. Agnes even went so far as to walk with Bertha to the door to say goodbye, as though she were a lifelong friend going on a long journey.
Ada stood up as Agnes reentered the room. “Well?”
“Well what?” said Agnes. She clicked her tongue. “It’s far past time to dress for dinner, that woman does insist on rambling on. Bannister, please tell Mrs Bauer that we may be delayed by a few minutes.”
“Very well ma’am,” said Bannister, as though it had been the most ordinary afternoon in the world.
“Well, I don’t know how you’ve done it,” said Ada, “but it’s exciting, I must say!”
“I don’t know how I did it either,” said Marian, watching Agnes retreat up the stairs.
“And a dinner!” said Ada brightly. “My, what social creatures we’ve become.”
“I suppose we have,” said Marian. “It seems as if you approve.”
“Oh, Marian, it’s just…” Ada let out a sigh, smiling at her. “It’s just lovely . I’m truly so glad you’re with us.”
“And I truly don’t know that I did anything,” said Marian, offering Ada her arm as they began to climb the stairs, “but in the face of no other explanation I suppose I will take the compliment.”
----
“And through here is the library,” said Larry. “I’m actually drafting plans on how to improve the light in here a little more.”
Ada looked up, marvelling at the fresco of sunset-lit clouds that adorned the ceiling, the way the chandeliers glowed with golden light. “I think it’s just beautiful .”
“It will be even more so when I’m done,” said Larry.
“As long as your mother approves of the changes,” said George.
Larry and Marian exchanged a look, and Marian hid a smile behind her hand. Even Oscar seemed to be in good spirits as they toured the Russell's home, asking an appropriate amount of questions and even making Gladys smile once or twice. Perhaps Bertha had been right after all and there was no reason two young people could remain friends after a social disruption.
Ada smiled at the sight. It did her such good to be out of the house. It did them all such good. She looked around, spotting Agnes and Bertha a few paces behind them. Ada stepped towards a large illustrated novel on a display stand to wait for them.
“I would not keep him in the house,” said Agnes, her voice low.
“I think as it's my marriage I should have the final say in that,” whispered Bertha.
“You asked for my advice,” said Agnes.
“I asked for advice in regards to our mutual friend, not my personal matters,” said Bertha.
“Is our mutual friend not your personal matter?” asked Agnes.
“As much mine as she is yours,” said Bertha.
Agnes made a face. “You cannot put your faith in a man simply because you married him.”
“I know that,” said Bertha, “but likewise I cannot simply assume that Turner is telling the truth. Surely even you can agree that it makes more sense for her to want to sow discord than to clear the air?”
“I suppose,” sighed Agnes. “But who knows how you people operate?”
“If it is a choice between your husband and mine, I believe I would take mine any day of the week,” snapped Bertha. “New or not , there are some things that I won't tolerate.”
Agnes inhaled sharply, and Bertha fell silent, their feet stopping on the other side of the bookcase to Ada. Ada held very still, really not sure if she should loudly step away or stay as quiet as possible.
Bertha let out a long breath. “I- Apologise. It was wrong of me to say such a thing.”
“Yes,” said Agnes curtly.
There was another, longer pause, and Ada held her breath.
“It is…” Bertha paused. “I’m afraid I’m quite out of the habit of having an… acquaintance who offers advice simply on its own merit rather than trying to guide me towards a specific end.”
“If you were ever in such a habit,” said Agnes.
“Indeed,” said Bertha. “Social climbers rarely have use for such things, or the ability to keep them up when they find them.”
Agnes was still for a long moment. “I suppose you are not… incorrect in saying such a thing. Still, just because your husband is not mine, that does not mean he can do no wrong.”
“And I promise that he has done his best to make amends to me in the way that I wish amends to be made,” said Bertha.
“I suppose if you believe him then I can say nothing more,” said Agnes.
“I don't believe that will occur with anything short of God's own hand, but I certainly appreciate you letting the subject drop for now,” said Bertha.
“You are welcome,” said Agnes, “and I hope you remember such kindness next time I wish to cease hearing about Parisian fashions.”
“I can only promise for myself,” said Bertha, as they began walking again. “Gladys has purchased a new fashion magazine and is quite taken with everything inside it.”
Ada carefully stepped back, moving to the furthest corner of the row.
“This is what happens when you are too indulgent on the young,” said Agnes.
“Perhaps it is,” said Bertha, her tone returning to it’s mild warmth. She blinked, her eyes going to Ada. “Miss Brook, I hope you haven’t been waiting for us?”
Agnes’ eyes narrowed.
“No, no,” said Ada, “I was just examining these volumes here and I’m afraid I got quite caught up. Have the others moved on so soon?”
“To the ballroom, I should think,” said Bertha.
“And what new installations does your son have planned in there?” said Agnes.
Bertha hummed. “We shall see.”
“Come along Ada,” said Agnes. “We have the rest of the house to see before we will be allowed to eat. Apparently.”
“I’m afraid so,” said Bertha wryly.
Agnes’ head tilted just so , showing her amusement, even if she didn’t say it. Ada hurried after them.
----
Marian edged her way around the dance floor. Larry had promised her the next dance, so she was as reluctant to leave the ballroom as she was to engage another partner. Still, it seemed unwise, somehow, to simply watch him, even if he professed no particular interest in Carrie Astor.
Her feet brought her towards the open doors to the veranda and she let out a sigh of relief at the cool air. Perhaps she’d stand a little way outside, to let it revive her a little before she resumed dancing.
She heard the tone of Agnes’ voice before her mind began to decipher it. Marian raised her eyebrows. She certainly seemed to be giving someone a piece of her mind, her disdain crystal clear.
A few moments later, Mrs Winterton stalked past Marian, not even so much as glancing in her direction. The air seemed very silent and still, as though she had taken a great storm with her.
“Thank you,” she heard Bertha, softly.
Marian was just close enough that she heard it over the murmur of voices from inside the ballroom. She took half a step back, just able to see Agnes and Bertha standing together, a few paces further into the garden.
Agnes put her hand on Bertha's arm. “What are neighbours for?”
Bertha covered Agnes’ hand with her own before the two stepped apart. “I plan to repay the favour.”
“I can only hope that I live a life that does not lead to needing such a thing,” said Agnes.
“I have no doubt you will,” said Bertha, “but the offer is there in any case. It seems, as you say, the neighbourly thing to do.”
Anges’ lips curled into something quite like a smile. “It does indeed.”