Dinah started to remind Captain Moberly of her vow not to marry a seafarer, but somehow the words would not form.

He gazed about the room. “You have your choice between Mr. Richland Senior or Junior.”

Dinah bit her lips to keep from giggling. “Captain, I order you to cease matchmaking for me.” A playful thought nudged Dinah’s mind. “That is, unless I am permitted to serve the same office for you.”

He gave her a slight bow. “Fair enough. Make your selection and present me to the lady.”

She stared around the room, seeking a likely candidate. “Hmm. Well. How about…no, not her. And then there’s…but no, she would not suit.” She released a dramatic sigh. “I fear not a single match can be found for you in our city, sir.”

Kindness would not permit her to tease about pairing him with any of her acquaintances. Kindness? Or perhaps something far more selfish?

LOUISE M. GOUGE

has been married to her husband, David, for forty-six years. They have four children and six grandchildren. Louise always had an active imagination, thinking up stories for her friends, classmates and family, but seldom writing them down. At a friend’s insistence, in 1984 she finally began to type up her latest idea. Before trying to find a publisher, Louise returned to college, earning a B.A. in English/creative writing and a master’s degree in liberal studies. She reworked the novel based on what she had learned and sold it to a major Christian publisher. Louise then worked in television marketing for a short time before becoming a college English/humanities instructor. She has had ten novels published, five of which have earned multiple awards, including the 2006 Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award. Please visit her website at www.louisemgouge.com.

At the Captain’s Command
Louise M. Gouge

www.millsandboon.co.uk

MILLS & BOON

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I will receive you and will be a Father unto you,

and ye shall be my sons and daughters,

saith the Lord Almighty.

—II Corinthians 6:17b–18

This book is dedicated

to my beloved husband, David,

who has stood by my side through my entire

writing career, encouraging me, helping me with

research, reading my raw manuscripts and giving me

the gentlest of corrections. Oh, and best of all,

he gives me the male perspective and insights a

woman sometimes can’t quite grasp. He also gives

me the benefit of his military experience in the

U.S. Army, during which he served in the

101st Airborne in Vietnam. Every March 11,

I thank God for bringing David safely home to me.

Acknowledgments:

In addition, I want to thank

my amazing critique partners for their

wonderful suggestions and research tips:

DiAnn Mills, Ramona Cecil, MaryLu Tyndall

and Laurie Alice Eakes, all gifted authors

in their own rights.

Finally, I’d like to thank my insightful editor,

Melissa Endlich, who sets the bar high for

writing excellence. I’m proud to be writing for you.

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Epilogue

Letter to Reader

Questions for Discussion

Chapter One

May 1780

St. Augustine, East Florida Colony

The instant Dinah saw the three naval officers, she ducked into the mercantile and hid among the stacks of goods. To her relief, the men, grandly uniformed in indigo wool, gold braid and black bicorne hats, continued up St. George Street. Yet she could not help but notice the well-formed profile of the captain among them. A strong jaw. High cheekbones. Jet-black hair tied back in a queue. She wondered what color his eyes were.

What was she thinking? She quickly turned her attention to a display of awls and knives laid out on a shelf.

“How may I help you, Miss Templeton?” The rotund, middle-aged proprietor approached her, admiration gleaming in his dark eyes. “Some silk for a new gown, perhaps? My latest shipment of lace has arrived and—”

“No, thank you.” Dinah lifted her basket of lavender flowers from her arm and held it like a shield as the widower moved closer. Coming in here had been a mistake. “I do not require anything.” Tension tightening in her chest, she hurried toward the door.

He reached it first, and his eyebrows arched. “I have tea from China and…”

Dinah drew herself up to her full height and lifted her chin. “Please allow me to pass, Mr. Waterston.”

He mirrored her posture, although his shorter height did not reach hers, and he sniffed. “I must say, Miss Templeton, for a girl with no family, you certainly do put on airs. Would you not prefer to be mistress of your own home instead of living with Mr. and Mrs. Hussey?” His shoulders slumped, his gaze softened and his lips curved into a gentle smile. “You could do worse than marrying a responsible merchant such as myself.”

A twinge of pity softened her annoyance. “As I have told you before, sir, we truly would not suit.”

Even if she found the merchant’s offer appealing, which she did not, his reminder of her orphaned state did nothing to recommend him, nor did his reference to her living situation. She did indeed have relatives, but they were all far away. And yes, she would like to be mistress of her own home. But in truth, not one of the many unattached men in St. Augustine suited her, in spite of her friends’ attempts at matchmaking. After four years in this small city, she had no doubt God had consigned her to a state of spinsterhood.

“I wish you a good day, sir.” She slid past Mr. Waterston and walked out into the street, lifting a silent prayer of thanks that the encounter had ended without unpleasantness. She encountered quite enough unpleasantness every day at home.

Coming to this city had not been her preference, but she’d had no other choice. Even before the beginning of the war that now raged in the northern colonies, she had felt twice displaced. Her parents died when she was very small, and her relatives had been unable to take her in. Then, when the dear spinster ladies who reared her died of a fever, the elders of the Nantucket Friends Meeting placed her with the Husseys, for Mrs. Hussey had also been reared by the Gardiner sisters. Once the war began to escalate, Artemis Hussey insisted upon removing to this safe haven, where no rebels could threaten to tar and feather him for his Loyalist views. Over these past four years, he had grown more and more disagreeable and usually aimed his dissatisfaction at Dinah rather than at his wife, Anne.

But as Dinah continued on her way, thoughts of Artemis vanished amid the chatter and clatter along the dusty street. When she reached the Parade, the grassy common in front of the governor’s house, she approached several well-dressed ladies who were whispering behind opened fans, their admiring stares aimed across the green lawn.

Elizabeth Markham, a friend near her age, beckoned to Dinah. “Did you see those handsome naval officers who just passed this way?” Her fair cheeks bore a rosy hue, as they always did when the subject under discussion included fine-looking gentlemen.

Dinah stared in wonder at the phenomenon upon her friend’s countenance, for she herself never blushed. “I did see them, yes.”

“Indeed, they are proper-looking gentlemen.” Elizabeth’s mother sent her daughter an indulgent smile, then touched Dinah’s arm. “Dear Miss Templeton, you must join us for tea at the Rose Room.” She waved her hand to take in the others in her little gathering. All the ladies added their approval of the invitation.

“I thank you, Mrs. Markham.” Dinah nodded toward her basket of lavender. “Perhaps after I complete my errand. Tea would be just the thing.” She hurried past the group.

The ladies’ jasmine and rose perfumes mingled with earthy street smells, all swept along by a warm ocean breeze. Throughout the Parade, vendors hawked their wares, everything from cast-iron kettles to candles to live chickens to freshly cut meat, while the squeals of children at play echoed across the lawn. Two gentlemen Dinah knew from St. Peter’s Church doffed their hats, bowed and greeted her with the customary pleasantries. She returned a curtsey but excused herself from further conversation. Instead, she continued up St. George Street toward her destination, maintaining her distance from the British uniforms. They no doubt were on their way to Fort St. Marks, and her objective was a little farther away.

To her right lay Matanzas Bay, and a new ship—a British frigate, if she was not mistaken—bobbed in the mild current, sails furled to its three tall masts. Last evening, she had heard the bells ringing from the Anastasia Island watchtower, signaling a ship’s arrival over the bar. No doubt those officers came from the vessel.

After a walk of perhaps a hundred yards beyond the city proper, she saw to her dismay that the officers had continued past the fort and turned in at the military infirmary, her own objective. She released a long sigh. Perhaps she could slip into the building without notice. If she had not promised to bring the lavender for Dr. Wellsey’s patients, she would delay her errand and return to have tea with Mrs. Markham and the other ladies until the officers went elsewhere.

The familiar odors of sickness and lye soap met Dinah’s nose even before she opened the hospital’s front door, for all the windows of the building were open. She dismissed her own discomfort. Dr. Wellsey’s patients suffered enough with wounds and diseases. Perhaps the fragrance of her flowers would help diminish the unpleasant smells.

Hurrying into the wide entry room, she brushed her straw hat off and let it hang by its ribbons down her back. As she made her way toward the surgeon’s office, she caught a glimpse of the officers in the next chamber. With haste, she slipped into the small office and then out the side door to the herb garden to make certain the plants had sufficient water. Through the hazy glass of the back window, she saw the captain bent over a man on a cot, one hand resting on the sailor’s shoulder. Every nuance of the officer’s relaxed posture bespoke sympathy and concern, not the hauteur one might expect. He had removed his hat, revealing a broad, smooth forehead. Now he lifted his gaze toward the garden window, and she ducked back into Dr. Wellsey’s office, her heart pounding. She hoped the captain had not noticed her presence, or if so, had assumed she was a servant.

Setting her basket on the floor beside the desk, she capped the inkwell and sharpened the feather quill. If not for her and Joanna, the good doctor’s wife, his infirmary and home would be in complete disarray. She found a cloth and dusted his bookshelves and journals, taking care not to disturb the many carefully labeled bottles. Once while dusting, she had lifted a small urn of medicine and hours later was still able to smell the pungent odor of bear grease on her fingers.

The deep rumble of male voices echoed from the inner chambers of the infirmary. This would be the best time to make her escape unnoticed. Pulse racing, she made certain everything was in order, then placed the basket of lavender in the center of the desk. Dr. Wellsey or his assistant could disperse it throughout the rooms as they saw fit.

She hurried into the entry just as the doctor and his guests emerged from the back chamber.

“So you see, Captain Moberly, we make every effort—why, Miss Templeton, what a surprise.”

Dinah gasped. “Captain Thomas Moberly?”

“Miss Dinah Templeton?”

They spoke at the same time, and the entire company laughed. Relief flooded Dinah. This changed everything regarding these men. Or at least regarding the captain.

He strode across the wide room and lifted her hand to kiss it.

“My dear kinswoman, how delightful to meet you at last.” His thick black eyebrows arched and his blue eyes sparkled. Bright blue, like the sky. The fragrance of woodsy shaving balm tickled her nose. Doubtless the officers had visited the bathhouse before coming into the city.

“And I am pleased to meet you, Captain.” Dinah curtseyed, then glanced at Dr. Wellsey, who wore an agreeable smile and showed not the slightest surprise. “Why, doctor, did you plan this?”

Dr. Wellsey chuckled. “I fear I cannot claim the credit, though to be sure, it is fortuitous.”

“Indeed it is.” Thomas released her hand and summoned his officers with an authoritative wave. “Miss Moberly, may I present Mr. Brandon and Mr. Wayland. Gentlemen, this is my sister twice over. My younger brother is married to her cousin, and my sister is married to her brother.”

As the two officers stepped forward, Dinah saw in their eyes the usual look of sailors new in port—as if they might devour her on the spot. She tried not to recoil. This was the very thing she’d hoped to avoid by evading these men. At least when the first officer kissed her hand, he had the grace to temper his expression with respect. “I am honored, Miss Templeton.”

“Miss Templeton.” The other man, a lieutenant who was younger by far than his companions, gripped her hand a bit too firmly. “Who would have thought to find such beauty in this backward colony?” His breathless speech was etched with an aristocratic British accent.

Seeing a storm brewing on the captain’s brow, Dinah gently twisted her hand from the lieutenant’s grasp. “How kind of you, sir.” She honored them with another curtsey before focusing on her kinsman, whose expression now seemed as protective as her own brother’s. How strange that the idea brought on a twinge of disappointment. Strange and foolish. The captain was a seafaring man and as such could never become the object of her romantic interest. Why, she would as soon marry the little merchant as a man who always deserted his wife for the sea. No, this man could be her friend, as he was to her brother Jamie, but no more.

“What brings you to St. Augustine?” Dinah gazed again into the captain’s warm blue eyes. “Have you brought news that the war is over? That the rebels at last have been defeated?”

The other men responded with condescending chuckles, but Thomas’s expression turned grave. “Would that it were so, dear lady. Unfortunately, each time we think we have crushed them, they return like the phoenix.” Sorrow flitted across his eyes, but he seemed to blink it away. “To answer your question, my crew and I have been assigned to join the other two frigates now patrolling these waters and to defend St. Augustine and the St. Johns River from invasion by the Spanish fleet and pirates.”

“Effectively taking us out of the war.” The lieutenant’s tone echoed with annoyance.

“Yes.” Thomas shot him a frown. “And giving us a respite from death.”

“Not to mention—” Mr. Brandon’s brown eyes twinkled. “Giving us an opportunity to enjoy a decent roast beef at one of the fine taverns in this fair city. A man wearies of salt pork and weevil-ridden biscuits.” He shuddered comically, and the other men voiced good-natured agreement.

His remark sparked a scheme in Dinah’s mind. “If you gentlemen will excuse me, I must take my leave. I hope you will enjoy St. Augustine. It truly is a lovely city, and we appreciate the regiment at Fort Saint Marks and the naval ships in our harbor.” She turned to Dr. Wellsey. “Doctor, the lavender is on your desk. Will you see to it?”

He glanced over his shoulder toward his office. “Ah, yes. Thank you, Miss Templeton.”

After the appropriate au revoirs, Dinah added, “Until we meet again, Captain Moberly.”

She restored her hat to her head and paused to re-tie the ribbons and renew her plan. As soon as they left, she would come back and ask Dr. Wellsey where the officers were lodging, then send Thomas an invitation to supper so they could share family news. Perhaps he had information about Jamie, whose merchant ship was always in danger from pirates. And no doubt the captain would like to hear about his sister and brother, who dwelt on a plantation deep in the East Florida wilderness.

Before she could think of how to word the missive, the captain emerged from the building and stopped her with a light touch on her arm. Looking up from beneath her hat brim to see a smile as gentle as his gaze, she stifled the foolish giddiness threatening her composure. Gracious, he was handsome. But how featherbrained of her to think such things. After all, she had heard from his sister that this gentleman was one and thirty, an entire decade older than her own one and twenty years. Another reason not to make him an object of her interest. And with all those marriages between their families, he was practically her brother. Wasn’t he?

“Yes, Captain Moberly?” Could he hear the squeak in her voice?

“Perhaps we can arrange to see each other soon to exchange family news.” Thomas clamped down on the strange wave of feeling that surged through him in response to her glorious smile. This was the lady his good friend Jamie called his “delightful little sister.” But instead of the child Thomas had expected to meet one day, here stood a tall, beautiful young woman in a pretty lavender frock that enhanced her dark-brown eyes. Eyes that exuded kindness and generosity. Eyes a man could get lost in. He mentally shook himself. What foolishness. He’d been too long at sea, too long out of society and the company of lovely ladies.

“Why, yes, I would like that very much, Captain.” Her voice had a pleasing, mellow tone. “Will you come to supper this evening? I cannot promise roast beef, but perhaps something just as tasty.”

The innocence of her invitation gave him pause. No matter how much they regarded one other as a family member, other people might not see the matter in that light.

“You know, of course,” she said, “that I live with my foster sister and her husband. They will be more than pleased to meet a true British naval hero.”

Thomas grinned, feeling foolish. Had she discerned his hesitation? “And I would be honored to meet them. Where and what time shall I come?”

She gave directions and named the time, but while he committed them to memory, he fought the urge to shift his manner of viewing her. Not since his wife’s death had he seen a woman of such innocence and genteel grace. But whereas dear little Ariel had flitted through life without a serious thought in her brain, Dinah’s steady gaze invited confidence in her intelligence.

Guilt stung him for making such a comparison. After four years, he still missed Ariel, still missed the hopes he’d held for the infant son she could not safely deliver. In time, he had come to think it best for a naval officer not to marry, for service to his father, his king and his God—in that order—took precedence over one’s personal interests. But even if he found his heart engaged by some winsome lady, Thomas had no intention of emulating his sister and brother, both of whom had married common Americans. While a man could have good friends of a lower rank, such as Dinah’s brother, Jamie, these ill-advised unions no doubt had caused some grief. But he would not think of that until he stood face-to-face with his sister, Marianne, and brother Freddy.

“Until eight o’clock, then?” She bestowed another of her pretty smiles upon him, striking a chink in the four-year-old wall around his heart.

Belay that, you dolt. He must regard her as a sister and no more.

“May the hours hasten by until then.” He bowed with an extra flourish, hoping to lash down his wayward emotions through humor. His reward was an equally overdone curtsey. What a delightful creature.

She turned and walked away, leaving behind a hint of lavender in the air.

Thomas withheld a sigh. At least now he understood the temptations into which his sister and brother had fallen.

Chapter Two

Her heart merry over the unexpected encounter with Thomas, Dinah hurried back down St. George Street toward the Parade. Whether or not she saw much of him, his mere presence in St. Augustine would help to mitigate her usual sense of being cut off from her family. With Jamie at sea most of the time and her cousin living at Bennington Plantation, Dinah often felt lonely.

Of course she realized the handsome, charming captain would become the object of matchmaking for every mother of an eligible daughter in the colony. She tried to think of someone who might suit him, but for some reason, the idea nettled her. Moreover, what colonial miss would be worthy of such a distinguished gentleman, a renowned captain in His Majesty’s navy and the son of a British earl? No, Dinah would leave the matchmaking to the ambitious mothers. She would turn her efforts toward giving the captain a pleasant supper as a reward for his heroic naval service.

The thought of seeing him again so soon warmed her heart, and she became aware of May’s humid heat rolling over her face. On days like this, she longed for the cooler summers of her childhood home. But in Nantucket, winters could be deadly, while in East Florida winter generally offered a pleasant respite from both heat and cold. Still, when she pulled a linen handkerchief from her pocket and dabbed at the perspiration on her forehead, she recalled the need to complete her errands before the late-morning sun began to scorch the city and intensify its less pleasant odors.

In the Parade at the poultry vendor’s cart, she purchased two plump hens and asked the man to deliver them to her house. Artemis would fuss at the expense, but she was spending her own money. And no doubt he would be more than pleased when he learned they would have such an illustrious guest. If her foster sister’s husband had the slightest sense of humor, she would keep the captain’s identity a secret until he arrived at their home. But Artemis did not do well with surprises. As it was, she could just imagine how he would fawn over the captain. She’d best prepare him.

Hastening toward home, she shoved away her uncharitable thoughts. If Anne could be content in her marriage, Dinah would try not to dislike the man. But in the five years she had lived with them by mutual necessity, he had changed much—and none of it for the better.

Pausing in front of the bakery, she inhaled the inviting fragrance of fresh-baked bread. Cook would be hurt if Dinah brought home someone else’s baking, but perhaps it would be wise to make a purchase anyway. Cook would have enough to do preparing fish, chicken and pies for Thomas without having to start bread in the middle of the day. And what about vegetables? Dinah had not checked the garden since picking squash three days ago. Would there be enough green beans—?

She laughed at her own frantic thoughts, for she had no need to impress the captain. Not only had their family connections provided instant and reciprocal friendship, but she was sure he would appreciate whatever meal she served. Long months at sea guaranteed a hearty appetite for fresh fare.

Continuing toward home without the bread, Dinah felt her emotions settle further. She truly must not permit her feelings for Thomas to go beyond friendship. Their relatives had already teased her about another marriage between their families, but for her it was not even a remote possibility. Her father had died at sea eighteen years ago when she was barely three, leaving her without any memory of him. Her brother was the captain of his own merchant vessel and spent his life away from dear Marianne and their precious son. Would Jamie return from England in time for the birth of their second child in a few weeks? Dinah had no wish to live that way. As disagreeable as Artemis was, at least he lived at home, and Anne need never suffer loneliness. No, Dinah would never marry a seaman of any kind.

After passing through the gate of her fenced yard, she plucked several long stalks from the rosemary bush along the path to the house. She sniffed the pleasant, woody herb, and her mouth watered. She would give it to Cook to roast with the chickens. Yes, tonight at supper, Thomas would be amply rewarded for his service to His Majesty and the people of St. Augustine.

When Artemis came home from the government offices for his midday meal, he sat at the head of the table with his brown eyes narrowed and focused on Anne. “Mrs. Hussey, I saw chicken feathers strewn about the yard in front of the kitchen house. If we are to have such an expense in the middle of the week—”

“If you please, Artemis.” Dinah would not permit him to bully dear Anne.

“If you please, Miss Templeton.” His harsh glare settled on her. “I am speaking to my wife. If you must sit at table with us, I will not have you interrupt.” His gaunt face lined with tension, he turned back to Anne. “As I was saying, if you must have meat in the middle of the week, could Cook not at least gather and clean the feathers for bed pillows or chair cushions or some useful purpose?”

Dinah exhaled a quiet sigh, refusing to permit his rudeness to injure her feelings.

Always placid, Anne gave him a serene smile. “I shall see to it immediately after dinner, my dear.” She pursed her lips and sent Dinah a meaningful look. “Sister, dear, what shall we do with those feathers?”

“Of all the—” Artemis thumped his fist on the table. “What has she to do with their use?”

Dinah pressed her lips together. Oh, how she wished she’d not told Anne that Thomas was coming to dinner. How she wished she could give this intolerable man his due.

“Why, my dear,” Anne said calmly, “Dinah bought the chickens.”

Artemis’s hawk-like glare darted back to Dinah. What he was thinking, she could not guess. His sinewy jaw muscles clenched with anger, but confusion filled his eyes, as if she’d never before contributed to their food stores. Indeed, she paid half of all the household bills while using only one third of the resources.

“There. You see.” He waggled a bony finger at her as if she were a naughty child. “This is exactly why you should entrust your paltry fortune to me, Miss Templeton. You will be destitute before you reach three and twenty years if you continue such spending.” He scooped up a spoonful of bean soup and ate, but his glower forbade any response. “In these four years, I have laid before you the names of seven worthy gentlemen willing to marry you and take you off my hands, and you have rejected each and all. If you must be a spinster, give me charge of your money, and I shall make certain it carries you into your dotage.”

Prickles of anxiety closed Dinah’s throat, and she set down her spoon and stared at her cooling soup. Messrs. Panton and Leslie, managers of a store on Treasury Street, kept her inheritance in safekeeping, as they did the funds of several other citizens. Yet every time Artemis brought up the subject, the same fears assaulted her. Without a husband’s oversight, would the gentlemen truly look out for her interests? Whom could she trust? Certainly not one of Artemis’s political cronies to whom he had tried to manacle her. And Jamie was not in East Florida often enough to provide protection for her. Only by living with Anne and Artemis could Dinah feel safe. And despite Artemis’s insinuations otherwise, he needed her financial contributions to maintain a suitable house for a man of his position.

Anne coughed softly. “Sister, dear.” The warmth of her gaze and the unwarranted family endearment soothed Dinah’s nerves. Always, in the midst of these unpleasant discussions, she felt certain Anne addressed her as “sister” to gently remind Artemis of the heart bond the two women shared. “Thee must tell Artemis why thee bought the chickens.”

Forcing herself to recover, Dinah sniffed. “La, I cannot think he would be interested, but if you insist.” She gave Artemis the sweetest smile she could muster…and waited until he’d placed a spoonful of beans in his mouth. “I fear your table will be overcrowded again this evening, for I have invited Captain Thomas Moberly to dine with us.”

As she’d hoped, he gasped and then fell into a fit of coughing. Anne jumped up and dashed to his end of the table, pounding him on the back while sending Dinah a chiding glance. Dinah bit her lip to keep from laughing, but the hurt in Anne’s eyes soon dispelled her merriment and replaced it with shame.

“Forgive me, Artemis.” She stood and fanned him with her napkin, taking in a heavy dose of his apple-scented hair dressing. “I did not mean to shock you—” Would God forgive this lie? Would Anne?

“No, no, not at all, dear sister.” Artemis sputtered. “Captain Moberly, is it? Well, now, I’d heard this morning that a third British frigate had arrived last evening to protect our city, but I had no idea of who the captain was. To think, Lord Bennington’s heroic son quartered here and coming to my humble home.” He waved his hand to dismiss Anne. “Thank you, my dear. I am well. Please be seated.”

With order restored, Anne signaled Cook to bring dessert. As Artemis dug into his cornmeal pudding, his dark eyes almost twinkled. Dinah imagined he was thinking of ways to turn this night to his political advantage, for that was his practice with every situation. She must brace herself for whatever he might do.

“Hmm.” Artemis stared at Anne with a stern expression. “Mrs. Hussey, are you certain chicken is the best we can serve? Is there no beef or lamb to roast? Have you spoken to the butcher about a bargain on a good cut of meat? And what of dessert?” He tapped his chin thoughtfully. “And do have Cook clean up those chicken feathers. What will Moberly think if my yard is strewn with trash?” He turned his stare toward Dinah. “Miss Templeton, this afternoon you must run across the backyard to the Ethertons’ house and hire their eldest daughter to help Cook serve supper tonight.” He stood and tugged at his lapels. “I’ll not have the earl’s son think we cannot afford to serve him properly.” He stepped away from the table and stopped by the door, his lean form casting a thin shadow on the tabby floor. “And make certain the girl wears a clean apron.”

“Yes, Artemis.” From his authoritative tone, Dinah understood that Thomas was no longer her guest, but Artemis’s. Whatever hopes she’d had for becoming better acquainted with her kinsman and exchanging news about their shared family must now be abandoned in favor of this disagreeable man. Dinah felt her annoyance dispel. Surely there would be ample opportunity to befriend Thomas. She must not become reliant on him, she knew, but for the moment it comforted her to have a kinsman nearby. Oh, she was looking forward to supper!

Chapter Three

“A very fine meal, Mrs. Hussey. I have never tasted anything quite so delicious. Rosemary is the perfect herb to enhance the flavor of roasted chicken.” Thomas pressed his napkin to his lips and sent Anne a pleasant nod. “Your hospitality warms this seafarer’s heart, just as your table delights my palate.”

Dinah’s roasted corn turned dry in her mouth while an ache settled in her stomach. Of course the captain’s compliments to Anne were appropriate. As the married woman of the house, she deserved his honor and gratitude. But still it stung Dinah’s feelings not to receive a little credit for arranging this evening and the menu. Never before had she felt like such a spinster, an old maid, a redundant woman in the house she paid to live in.

“Thou are most welcome, Captain Moberly.” Anne smiled with all the humble graciousness of their Quaker upbringing. “But thy compliments should go to Dinah.” She signaled to the serving girl to remove their plates and bring dessert. “We are so pleased that she chanced to meet thee and invited thee to supper. Are we not, Mr. Hussey?”

Dinah hid a smile. She should have known Anne would not accept praise without sharing it. Her friend always turned attention away from herself and gave credit to others.

“Indeed, we are, Mrs. Hussey.” Seated at the head of the table, Artemis was a different man this evening, all affability and manners. He turned to Thomas, who sat on his left. “And so pleased for her kinship to you and to us.”

The captain nodded his appreciation of the cream-covered peach pie the maid set before him. “Ah, Miss Templeton, I did not know of your kinship to Mr. and Mrs. Hussey.” He gazed across the table at her, and a pleasant feeling warmed Dinah’s heart. Thomas was more than easy to look at and, for a naval captain, not the least bit intimidating. “You must tell me more about your family.”

“Well,” Artemis said, “it’s not as if we’re blood relations—”

The captain slid his attention to Artemis briefly. “But I should like to hear Miss Templeton recount the connection.”

Artemis coughed into his napkin. “Yes, of course. Miss Templeton, do proceed.”

With great difficulty, Dinah withheld a laugh over the captain’s gentle rebuke to Artemis. After all, this was not exactly a jolly tale she’d been asked to relate.

“Both Anne and I were orphaned, she first, and then I. Two dear spinster sisters, daughters of a whaling captain, took us in and reared us. And thus we consider ourselves foster sisters.” She sent a fond look to Anne. “I know her far better than I know my own brother, who was absent nearly all of my childhood.”

Memories flooded her with sadness. “Aunt Matilda and Aunt Eunice, as we called them, died when a fever struck Nantucket, and by that time Anne and Artemis had married.” She drew in a deep breath to still the sorrow that tried to close her throat. “I was left alone.” Indeed, she had felt alone all her life, abandoned by all, even God, despite the tender care of the Gardiner sisters. They had never known quite what to do with her excessive energy, while Anne had been all quiet compliance to their Quaker ways.

The captain leaned forward. “I grieve that my question has distressed you, dear lady.” The light from the candle centerpiece reflected in his blue eyes and deepened his compassionate frown. “You need not go on.”

“Not at all.” She forced a smile and dug into her pie, determined to enjoy its sweet flavor. After a moment, she continued. “It’s not as if we were the only people to suffer in this life.” Jamie once told her Thomas’s wife and son had died a few years ago. To fully regain her composure, she swallowed another bite of pie before going on. The gentleness in the captain’s countenance invited her confidence and stirred within her a deeper, fonder sentiment toward this good man.

“When that dreadful rebellion began in Boston, most Nantucketers took a neutral position on the growing war due to their Quaker convictions. But a few foolish young men who…well…they—”

“They tarred and feathered several Loyalists.” Artemis sniffed with indignation. “Had we not left, I cannot imagine what they might have done to me.”

The captain kept his attention on Dinah, and the intensity of his gaze sent a wave of encouragement through her. He truly wanted to hear this story from her. “If Anne and Artemis had not permitted me to come to St. Augustine with them, I’ve no idea what I would have done.” She would not mention her cousins in Boston who supported the rebels’ cause. Her break with them had been the worst of all cuts to her heart. At least her brother had forsaken his interest in the rebellion and now dedicated himself to his import business, avoiding the war altogether.

“It would seem to me,” the captain said, “that Nova Scotia or Newfoundland would have been a wiser choice, being closer to Nantucket. Why did you three not remove to one of those loyal English colonies?”

As much as Dinah enjoyed his kind attention, she felt compelled to look to Artemis for an answer. He had made the decision for them all, while her choices had been few: stay on the island of her birth and be shunned or even starved, take refuge with her rebel cousins in Boston or come to East Florida. “Artemis, perhaps you might enlighten Captain Moberly.”

Artemis’s eyes brightened, and he took a sip from his water goblet. “Well, you see, Captain, East Florida holds many more opportunities for advancement than those northernmost colonies, which already had established societies.” Tugging at his ruffled cravat, he grew more animated as he warmed to his topic. “When the Crown obtained East Florida from the Spanish in ’63, it provided great opportunities for a man with any degree of ambition.”

“So you had no plans to return to Nantucket?” Thomas lifted his chin. “Did you not think we would quickly defeat the insurgents and have order restored?”

Dinah thought she detected a hint of humor in his voice, although she could not imagine why. After five years, the war continued on, and the rebels seemed to grow stronger and more determined with each passing season.

As if mirroring the captain’s posture, Artemis lifted his chin, and his eyes narrowed. “When order is restored by the efforts of our brave military—” he lowered his chin and gave the captain a fawning smile “—courageous men such as yourself—nevertheless, I shall never be able to forgive or forget the cutting words of my childhood friends as we departed.” Anger flashed in his eyes, but he seemed to remember himself. “No, Captain, I shall not return to Nantucket. St. Augustine is my home now.”

“And these four years,” Anne said, “have been more than pleasant, have they not? Here amongst other Loyalists and the British citizens who have settled here, those of us who have been displaced have come to appreciate our English heritage more than ever.”

She glanced between Dinah and the captain, and Dinah quizzed her with a look. At the lift of Anne’s eyebrows, Dinah gave her head a little shake. She must cut short her friend’s matchmaking. As engaging as Thomas was, with all his travels at sea, he would make a poor choice for a husband. At least for Dinah.

“And how we do appreciate Governor Tonyn.” Calmer now, Artemis puffed out his chest like a rooster. “I’d not been here two months before he employed me as a clerk, and he has personally seen to my subsequent promotions.”

Dinah could detect no hint of boredom in Thomas’s expression as they related their stories, but surely it was time to inquire about his interests. “Now it’s your turn. Please tell us about your move to our city.”

He lifted one shoulder in a shrug Dinah found charming for one of such august rank. “There is little to tell. My ship is the HMS Dauntless, a forty-six-gun frigate, which you may have seen in the harbor. After three years in Admiral Rodney’s fleet, I’ve been given the duty to join His Majesty’s other two frigates in protecting St. Augustine and the St. Johns River from the French and Spanish fleets. And of course any colonial vessels foolish enough to wander this way.” He took another bite of his pie. “Delicious. My compliments to the cook.”

Artemis shifted in his chair, and from the narrowing of his eyes, Dinah guessed what he would say. “And while you protect our shores, by chance will you be responsible for ridding us of pirates?”

“I suppose you are referring to the one they call Nighthawk.” The captain appeared more interested in his pie than the question. He ate another bite and seemed to savor it.

A wave of satisfaction swept through Dinah at the thought of pleasing the captain’s palate. If she had not dried those peaches last fall—

“I do indeed refer to Nighthawk, and I will be nothing short of disappointed if you do not apprehend this brigand and sink him.” Artemis’s lips curled into a sneer as he spoke. “I have dabbled a bit in commerce, and he has stolen my wares. Mine, Captain Moberly.” He clenched his jaw and shoved away his pie. “Our mutual friend Captain Templeton was delivering molasses to Jamaica when this pirate accosted him. Of all the cargo on the ship, he seized only my barrels. It was a dreadful loss.”

Dinah took a turn at clenching her jaw. “At least Jamie and his crew were not harmed.”

“Thank the good Lord.” Thomas gave his head a little shake. “I hear strange reports about that fellow Nighthawk. He seems to avoid bloodshed. Perhaps that reputation encourages merchant captains to give him what he asks for. Most pirates are murderers as well as thieves.”

“Do you mean to say—” Artemis’s eyes bulged “—that these merchant captains permit this pirate to rob them? That you think Templeton just handed over my molasses?”

Dinah huffed out a breath to express her indignation. “I am certain Jamie did all he could to protect your precious cargo…short of being shot or losing any of his crew.”

Thomas’s wide-eyed gaze darted between her and Artemis, and she wished she’d tempered her cross tone. “I agree, Miss Templeton. In fact, I know how fiercely he would defend the wares entrusted to his care. To reassure you, let me say that I had the privilege of advising him in regard to refitting the Fair Winds to provide support for increasing his firepower. She now sports twenty-four guns and a crew trained to use them. That is a defense equal to many smaller British frigates. Should a pirate show an inclination for carnage, Jamie will have the wit, will and resources to engage him in battle.”

Artemis continued to grumble, but Dinah’s heart overflowed with happiness for all this good captain had done for her brother. “You must know how grateful Jamie is for your help. He has told us of your father’s involvement in preventing impressments of the Fair Winds’ crew. The earl’s patronage has no doubt been the single most important element in Jamie’s success as a merchant captain.” Dinah also did not doubt for a moment that the earl’s patronage had ensured Jamie’s loyalty to England and the Crown, despite his former support for the rebellion. “When you next write to Lord Bennington, please convey to him a sister’s gratitude.”

Pain ripped across his eyes but disappeared so quickly Dinah wondered if she’d been mistaken.

“Yes, dear lady. I shall be pleased to convey your thanks to Lord Bennington.”

“Ah, such a grand thing to be the son of an earl,” Artemis said. “I’ve had the privilege of becoming acquainted with your brother Frederick, and I am deeply impressed by his management of Bennington Plantation. Your father must be proud of his four sons.”

Again, Dinah saw a shadow flit across Thomas’s face. Instead of responding, he lifted his coffee cup and sipped, focusing on his plate.

“Just think—” Artemis prattled on “—to have one’s future all arranged and not to have to work one’s way to success.” He expelled a lengthy sigh. “Tell me, Captain Moberly, what is it like never to have doubts about one’s future?”

The man’s face was a mask as he turned a dead stare upon Artemis. “I serve at the king’s pleasure, sir, but only the Almighty holds the future.”

Artemis’s animated countenance went blank. “Yes. Of course.”

Thomas had long ago perfected the art of ending a discussion he did not wish to continue. Hussey was clearly ambitious, and his puffed-up demeanor did not invite confidences. A man had to be careful what he said to this sort, lest he take the bit and run with it. Thomas would not discuss family matters when there seemed to be some tension between Hussey and Dinah. Did the man treat her with honor, with respect? If not, Thomas would see things set to right.

Still, these St. Augustine Loyalists had decent manners, and Mrs. Hussey appeared to be the soul of Christian gentility. But for the husband, Thomas might request the ladies’ prayers regarding the tasks before him, for he would catch this Nighthawk chap, whom he must call a pirate merely because he was the enemy. But in truth, Thomas regarded him much like British privateers who gained wealth by raiding the cargoes of their foes. Still, the challenge to catch him was enticing, and success in the endeavor would ensure another feather in Thomas’s cap.

As it was, he must find some way to speak with Miss Templeton alone without offending Mr. and Mrs. Hussey. A gentleman simply did not request a private conversation with a young lady unless he meant to court her. But the grief weighing down his soul clamored to be relieved, and his kinswoman’s warm gaze invited his confidence…as well as some strange yet pleasant sentiments he could only attribute to their familial connections. That very morning, Dr. Wellsey had spoken of her good deeds among the sick and wounded soldiers from Fort St. Marks, citing her sympathetic disposition and natural kindness. Thomas had also noted her good humor, strangely subdued in Hussey’s presence.

“Anne.” Dinah’s cheerfulness had returned, and her lively brown eyes shone. “Since the sun has not set, do you suppose it would be acceptable for me to show Captain Moberly our garden?”

Thomas wondered if she’d read his thoughts.

“Ah, yes.” Hussey tossed his napkin on the table and stood. “A trip to the garden is just the thing after such a filling meal.”

“Artemis, dear,” Mrs. Hussey said, “I have need of thy help, if thee will, please.” She rose from the table. “Dinah, do show Captain Moberly the garden. Perhaps he would like to take some of our abundance of squash to his ship’s cook.”

While Hussey blustered a bit before acquiescing to his wife’s request, a riot of thoughts swept into Thomas’s mind. Like most married women, Mrs. Hussey no doubt felt a duty to serve as a matchmaker for her unmarried friends. Still, if it worked to his advantage in this case, he would not complain. Dinah seemed to be a sensible girl, not likely to fawn over him or use artifice to gain his interest. But her cheerful countenance caused him to reconsider confiding in her for fear of ruining her merry mood.

As they stepped out the side door, a rich, sweet fragrance swept over Thomas. He quickly identified the source: a broad, lush, six-foot-tall bush filled with white, roselike blossoms. He breathed in the heady smell. “Gardenia, if I am not mistaken.”

“Yes.” Dinah moved close to the bush to sniff a bloom. “My favorite.” She waved a hand toward a low wooden fence. “This way to the garden.”

Just when they reached the gate, a gray-and-white cat pounced from behind a shrub and grabbed at the ribbons trailing from the waist of the young lady’s flowered gown. The creature’s claws snagged the back hem of the skirt, stopping her.

“Oh, Macy, hold still.” She tried to twist around and grab the cat, but it tugged away from her.

“Hold still,” Thomas echoed. He bent down and detached the claws, then lifted the cat into his arms. Its loud purr made him chuckle. “Yours?” It nestled into his neck, sending a familiar comfort through him. How long had it been since Wiggins died? Thomas’s cabin on the Dauntless had been lonely since his little mouser had met its end.

“Yes, he’s mine, the little nuisance.” She reached for her pet.

Thomas tightened his grip. “Do let me hold him. My men would laugh to see me thus, and my steward will protest this hair on my coat. But I confess a weakness for cats.” He stared into Macy’s green eyes, and the car lightly nipped his nose. He patted his muzzle with a gentle rebuke, then looked down to see the bemused expression on Dinah’s face. They both laughed.

“A man so fond of cats is a rarity.” She resumed walking into the garden, and Thomas fell into step beside her.

“I suppose.” He shrugged and was rewarded by Macy’s discovery of his epaulet tassels. The cat batted the moving woven strands and caught a claw on one. Thomas grimaced to see some gold threads pulled loose. “Uh-oh.”

“Oh, now, that is the end.” Dinah reached up to remove her pet, taking care with his entangled claws. “You must let me mend those braids. How will you explain to your steward that you were in a brawl with a fellow no bigger than your forearm?” She set the cat on the ground and tried to shoo him away, but Macy followed them down a row of squash plants until he spied a lizard and gave chase. Dinah’s laughter resonated pleasantly around the garden. Not too high. Not too low. Not in the least giddy. Thomas would happily listen to that merry sound often.

“Do not trouble yourself. I shall tell Hinton I was attacked by a panther.” Thomas inhaled the fresh fragrance of the varied plants. Beyond the vegetable garden grew a small field of lavender, casting a pleasant atmosphere about the place. A fig tree, several citrus trees and a grapevine-covered arbor graced sections of the landscape. An ancient oak tree stood sentinel in one corner of the green yard, its long branches reaching wide to cast shadows over a cast-iron bench that seemed to beckon them.

Orange and violet tinted the western sky, and a feeling of peace swept through Thomas. He gestured toward the bench. “Shall we?”

“Of course.”

Seated beside him, Dinah gazed up, her eyes soft with concern. “What did you wish to tell me, Captain Moberly?”

He chuckled without mirth. “That obvious, eh?” He bit his lower lip while framing his words. With this intelligent, warm-hearted young woman, he sensed he could, for the most part, be candid. “Eight years have passed since my brother Frederick left England.” Thomas would not mention the bitter rivalry that had plagued their childhood. “Marianne left to marry Jamie four years ago.” Unexpected emotion rolled through his chest at the memory of the heartache her departure had caused. “I feel as if we are strangers.” He stared off at the darkening eastern sky while he gained control. “Therefore, I must ask your advice on how best to tell my brother and sister about the death of our father. You see, Frederick now serves at the pleasure of our eldest brother.”

Chapter Four

“Ooh.” Dinah breathed out the word on a long, broken sigh, and her eyes burned with sudden tears. “Dear Captain, I am so sorry for your grief.” She gripped his hand. In spite of the dim light, she thought she saw his eyes redden, and her heart swelled with compassion. Experiences with the sick and broken men at the infirmary had taught her that in moments like these, silence was the best comforter.

He covered her hands with his free one for a moment before gently pulling away. “I would not have your kind condolences misunderstood by Mr. Hussey.”

He glanced toward the house, and she followed his gaze. There stood Artemis staring out through the dining room window. Dinah doubted he could see into their shadowed sanctuary, but she had no wish to feed his imaginings.

“Yes, of course.” She rose and walked toward a sunlit patch of lawn. The captain followed. “To answer your question, I must ask one.” She stopped and faced him. “Will your duties permit you a leave of absence to deliver your sad news in person?”

He stood with hands clasped behind him and stared toward the line of trees at the edge of the property. “Your instincts seem to be in accord with mine. A letter would be too cruel, especially for my dear sister.”

Dinah nodded. “Yes, and especially considering her delicate condition.”

“Ah.” Thomas’s eyes widened. “Little James is nearing three years, is he not? Time to welcome a little brother or sister.” A flash of pain crossed his eyes. “We must do nothing to cause her difficulty.”

Dinah guessed he referred to his own wife’s death in childbirth, but she would not seek a confirmation. “Do not be overly concerned, Captain. Marianne is strong and healthy. And in three weeks, Dr. and Mrs. Wellsey will be going to St. Johns Towne for her lying-in. You will be pleased to know that Mrs. Wellsey is a skilled midwife. I plan to accompany them. Perhaps you could travel with us.” She would greatly enjoy his company on the arduous overland trip.

“Hmm.” His black eyebrows bent into a frown. “I had hoped to put the matter behind me without delay, but perhaps this is the Almighty’s way of managing the affair.” He grunted. “In fact, I find myself grateful for the reprieve.”

Dinah offered a gentle smile. “I understand.” How good to hear of his trust in God, an attribute worthy of a superior leader, just like her brother.

Gazing down at her, he nodded. “I thank you.” As if wanting to break their solemn mood, he inhaled a quick, sharp breath and glanced around the garden. “This is a charming place, both this property and this little town. Tell me, Miss Templeton, what keeps you busy here beside your good works at the infirmary?”

Dinah could see he wished to move on to a lighter topic, and she was pleased to comply. “You may be surprised to learn, sir,” she said with a playful toss of her head, “that we have a very active social life here.”

He chuckled. “Do tell me about it.”

“Why, we have teas and parties and balls and picnics and no end of merry times. And of course the men go hunting.” She gave him a sidelong look. “You will be in great demand, Captain. Every mother of a marriageable young lady will seek your company.” Her teasing words threatened to stick in her throat. As before, she could not think of a single young lady worthy of this man, not even dear, wealthy Elizabeth Markham, for the girl rarely had a serious thought. Still, Dinah found herself nattering onward. “In fact, if you attend services at St. Peter’s Church this Sunday, I shall make certain you are introduced to the cream of our society.”

Again her words gave her pause. Growing up the son of an English earl, the captain no doubt had met truly exalted personages, perhaps even the king. Ignoring her uncertainties, she eyed him. “What do you say to that?”

Again he laughed. “I say that it would be imprudent of me to ignore your invitation if I expect to escape boredom in your fair town. In fact, I try never to miss attending worship services when I am ashore. And if I can be introduced into St. Augustine society at church, all the better.” He raised one eyebrow the way Jamie did when he was about to tease. “Speaking of social matters, I must tell you that my lieutenant, Mr. Wayland, was quite taken with you. ’Twas all I could do to keep him from following me here this evening. If he asks me as your kinsman for permission to call on you, what shall I tell him?”

“Oh, my.” She could still feel the young officer’s too-firm clasp of her hand and see the overeagerness in his eyes. “You must tell him he would do better to pursue another.” She kept her tone cheerful. “You see, I have vowed never to marry a seafaring man, for I will not live as a widow while I am wed.” The slight dimming of his smile caused her a pang of regret, for she did not intend to disparage Thomas’s profession. Nonetheless, she would not have sailors, even officers, coming to call. Of course, she would not count Thomas among the unwelcome ones, but then, he was her brother-in-law.

“Then I will do all in my power to protect you from such suits.” He looked toward the house and offered Dinah his arm. “Miss Templeton, pray let us put Mr. Hussey at ease.”

She thought she detected a tiny smirk on the captain’s lips, but she dared not surrender to the giggle bubbling up inside her. “And let us escape these mosquitoes as well. This is the time of evening they come out to bother us.” She waved away the insects trying to land on her bare hand. Inside they would be protected by the fine mosquito netting over the windows, an expense even Artemis had been eager to indulge in.

Halfway on their trip to the side door, the captain stopped, serious once again. “Are you well protected in this house, Miss Templeton?”

She blinked in surprise. “Wh-why, yes, Captain.” Her heart warmed at his concern. Every word, every gesture endeared this man to her. Were he not a seafarer, she might even set her cap for him. But that was nonsense. He was a seafarer. And he was practically her brother. And he had made it clear at their first meeting he regarded her a sister. She need not even consider the difference in their ages…or their social ranks.

No, she would put away all such featherbrained thoughts of romance this very instant.

Thomas could not guess what had come over him. Somehow this delightful young woman’s warmth and kindness had brought forth his tenderest emotions, not to mention his protective instincts. Perhaps his familial sentiments, so long submerged beneath his military responsibilities, were resurfacing in light of his imminent meeting with his brother and sister. Whatever the cause, he felt…at home with Dinah Templeton.

And now nothing would do but for him to discover the cause of the tension between the lady and Mr. Hussey. Overdone manners aside, the fellow had not hidden his annoyance with her. But why did she displease him? At first, Thomas had considered that the man might have designs on her. But Mrs. Hussey appeared to be as virtuous as she was attractive, as insightful as she was kindhearted. If the husband desired Dinah, the wife would surely not comport herself with such serenity.

Thomas searched his memory for scraps of conversations he’d had with Jamie Templeton regarding his sister. He could recall only that she had a modest inheritance to sustain her. Ah, perhaps that was the issue. Money. Thomas would not be hasty in his judgments but would watch for confirmation of his suspicions. His first impressions generally proved true. And when he met Hussey, a single line from Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar had come to mind: “Yon Cassius has a lean and hungry look.” If Hussey revealed himself to possess the same depth of wily ambition as the scheming Roman Cassius, all the more reason to investigate his treatment of Dinah.

As for the young lady’s assertion that she would not wed a seafarer, Thomas acknowledged her decision was a wise one. As her friend, he wished only for her happiness. Still, the military man within him felt a bit of challenge, a surge of pride, even, that he could conquer that resolve, should he so desire.

Which, of course, he did not. But he was pleased to have a confidant who seemed to understand his situation. He should like to see Dinah well cared for. Even if he couldn’t personally guarantee her happiness, he could not allow her to stay in an unsuitable situation. He would wait and learn what he could and if need be, he would act.

Chapter Five

Seated in St. Peter’s Church, Dinah sensed someone’s gaze on the back of her head, so she opened her prayer book, trying not to look over her shoulder. Her attempt failed. A glance across the aisle and to the rear revealed Mr. Wayland’s bold stare and impudent grin, both of which ceased the instant a frowning captain nudged the young lieutenant with his fist.

Her heart lightened by the captain’s protective gesture, Dinah turned back to face the altar, taking care not to knock loose her wide-brimmed straw hat by bumping into Anne’s smaller chapeau. Anne gave her a smile, then returned her attention to her open Bible.

Dinah tried to refocus on her own prayer book, but the playful invitation in the lieutenant’s expression lingered in her thoughts. Did he have no respect for this place of worship? While other unattached young ladies might find church the perfect place to engage the interests of young gentlemen, Dinah thought the practice bordered on heresy. It was all well and good to introduce Thomas to her friends after the service ended. However, one attended church services to consider God’s mercies and worship Him. Indeed, this was the only place where Dinah ever felt the presence of God.

Pray though she might every day, believe in Him as she did with all her heart, she could never quite attain the serenity Anne had exhibited since they were children. Anne seemed to know God intimately, which surely gave her the grace to endure her marriage and even to love Artemis. For Dinah, God seemed distant, inaccessible, unheeding of her cries, uncaring about the loneliness she had felt all her life. Other than Anne, whom had Dinah ever loved who had not abandoned her?

She shook off her self-pity. Even if God chose not to speak to her, she would still choose to believe in His goodness and serve Him as best she could, just as Anne did. Anne, who sat here without complaint because there was no Friends meeting in St. Augustine. Here in St. Peter’s, the lovely liturgy and insightful sermons bore little resemblance to Nantucket’s quiet, but equally spiritual Quaker meetings, in which no one spoke unless guided by the Inner Light. Yet Anne often said how important it was to meet with other Christians to worship God, whatever form that worship took.

Although Dinah had never felt the Inner Light, she did find joy and comfort in repeating the prayers and singing the songs with the other congregants. Moreover, Reverend Kennedy’s sermons always inspired her. No doubt Thomas would agree with her, for he had expressed sincere eagerness to attend today’s service. Furthermore, when he mentioned the Almighty, he spoke with reverence. Surely he was a pious man. Dinah wondered if he had ever felt an inner light from God…and wondered if it would be poor manners to ask him.

As the service began, Thomas found himself distracted, not to mention infuriated by Wayland’s insolent gaping at Dinah. No matter how lovely she was, he would not permit his officers or crew or anyone else to gawk at her as if they would breach her modesty. In the absence of her brother, and despite the useless presence of that Hussey fellow, Thomas would make certain every man knew she had a kinsman to whom they would answer.

With no small amount of effort, he managed to settle his anger and focus on the collective reading from his prayer book just as Dinah was doing. He wished he could see her face rather than the back of her charming beribboned hat. Her piety set an example for the other young ladies, several of whom had ogled him and his officers from the moment they had entered St. Peter’s.

But alas, as he read the familiar words, his thoughts once again took their own direction. He may as well admit that Dinah drew his interest more than a little. Surely her familial connection and her compassion for his grief caused this longing to spend more time with her. And perhaps he could offer advice or solace for the sorrow he had seen in her eyes several times the other evening. Was that not the purpose of families?

Had he not been in church, he would have snorted in derision at his own thoughts. If his family were taken as an example, then blood bonds were often the cause of more pain than healing. Yet he longed to heal his relatives’ griefs, longed to see to their needs just as he did for his crew. Indeed, after tending to several issues yesterday—letters to his crew’s families gathered for the next ship to London, injuries and illnesses, wages paid to all, admonishments given to the men of weaker character to avoid drunkenness—Thomas could rest assured he had done his duty by those who served under him.

Duty. It was what he lived for, his purpose for being. And in addition to his crew, he performed his duty to his king and, long before that, to his father, who had impressed upon him the obligations of the nobility and their offspring. But what was his duty to Dinah?

Just as Reverend Kennedy stood to begin his sermon, Thomas lifted a silent prayer that he would know how to serve the young lady. Such a delightful, capable creature should be married, should be mistress of her own home. He had heard that few marriageable ladies lived in St. Augustine compared to the many unmarried men, and so surely she had received offers. But perhaps there was a dearth of eligible Christian men in the city. Clearly her heart was not engaged, yet she seemed to have no objections to marriage, except to a seafarer. Perhaps the Almighty would have Thomas interview potential suitors. Somehow the idea settled like lead in his mind. More to his liking would be to warn off any man who cast a glance in her direction.

As the minister and deacons made their way up the aisle at the close of the service, Dinah gripped the back of the bench in front of her to keep from turning around to look for Thomas. She would not, simply must not seek his company, for such behavior would be inappropriate.

But even before the front pews emptied, Artemis shoved his way into the crowd. “Come along, Mrs. Hussey.” He glanced at Dinah and gave a quick jerk of his head. “Come along.” Almost dragging poor Anne, he made his way toward the captain, who had already been surrounded by people clamoring for his attention.

Even Governor Tonyn approached the group of naval officers, and when people noticed, the way parted before him. Artemis almost jumped out of the governor’s path, and Dinah bit her lip to keep from laughing. Thomas must have noticed as well, for he caught Dinah’s gaze, his eyes twinkled, and he lifted one eyebrow. She gave him a tiny nod, then moved along the edge of the mob toward the door.

Standing inside the open front doors, Reverend Kennedy smiled warmly. “Good morning, Miss Templeton.”

“Good morning, Reverend. Thank you for your lovely sermon. I was deeply moved.” She curtseyed, then moved on to make way for others. Indeed, the sermon had been quite inspirational, and she longed to discuss the minister’s words with someone who understood how it had touched her emotions.

Outside on St. George Street, she blinked in the bright sunlight and tugged at her hat brim to shield her eyes. Surprised to see that few parishioners had emerged, she attributed the phenomenon to the appeal of the captain and his officers. She glanced up at the clock on the spire of St. Peter’s. Almost noon. Her stomach responded to that information with a tiny growl.

Soldiers from the fort eyed her and made remarks among themselves, so she stared down the street toward the Parade, hoping they would not approach. It was one thing to minister to these men when they were sick, but another thing altogether when they were hale and hardy and attempted to gain her interest. Soon her concerns about the matter ended when people began to pour from St. Peter’s and go their separate ways.

“Dinah.” Elizabeth Markham approached and touched her arm. “Why did you not join the rest of us in meeting Captain Moberly…and his very handsome lieutenant, Mr. Wayland?”

The wistful look in Elizabeth’s eyes gave Dinah a laugh. Perhaps those two would be a good match. That is, if Mr. Wayland’s bold stares had simply meant he had been at sea too long, not that he lacked Christian character.

“I have already met the gentlemen, Elizabeth.” She looped her arm around her friend’s. “The other day when we saw them walking down St. George Street, I had no idea the captain is none other than my brother-in-law.”

Elizabeth gasped and then laughed. “Why, of course. Captain Moberly. I should have realized when I heard his name.” She gave Dinah a sly smile. “Are there not several marriages between your two families?”

Dinah released Elizabeth’s arm. “Yes, and those marriages are quite sufficient to join us as family.”

Elizabeth smirked. “Of course. Well then, if Mr. Wayland proves uninteresting, perhaps I shall set my cap for the captain.”

An odd annoyance cut through Dinah. How could anyone find that impertinent lieutenant superior to Thomas? But if she voiced the thought to Elizabeth, she would never hear the end of it. “Do enjoy yourself, my dear.”

“Hmph. Just because you do not wish to marry a man of the sea.” Elizabeth’s pout was short-lived. “Oh, but won’t it be grand to dance with these fine officers at the governor’s ball?”

Dinah’s heart skipped. “A ball? Oh, my. When? And what on earth inspired Governor Tonyn to this frivolity? Why, he despises such merrymaking.” She could hardly contain her astonishment…and her excitement. “Tell me everything you know.”

Elizabeth giggled. “There, you see. You are not as indifferent to the gentlemen as you pretend.” She punctuated her words with a smirk. “As to the governor, well, I am of the opinion that he is impressed by the fact that Captain Moberly is the son of Lord Bennington. In his political world, such an august person surely must be entertained.” She glanced toward the people emerging from the church, then leaned toward Dinah in a confiding manner. “The ball is to be held this Friday evening to officially honor the arrival of HMS Dauntless. Only specially invited guests may attend, and my parents and I are among them. Mamá told me about it the day before yesterday, and I have been begging for a new gown since then. But she says my old one will do because none of the Dauntless crew has seen it.” She paused, and puzzlement crinkled her smooth forehead. “Did you not receive an invitation?”

“Ah, there you are, Miss Templeton.” Thomas approached, looking a bit harried with his eyes wide and his lips in a thin smile. “I feared you had already left.” People clustered behind him as if seeking his attention, but he focused on Dinah.

Her feelings in riot and confusion, Dinah dipped an unsteady curtsey and forced a smile. “Good morning, Captain.” Surely if he was concerned about the possibility of not seeing her this morning, this oversight about an invitation could not be his doing. “I believe you have met my good friend, Miss Markham.”

“Indeed we have just met inside.” He swept off his bicorne hat and greeted Elizabeth with an elegant bow. “Miss Markham.”

“Captain—” Elizabeth lifted her chin “—I should not wish to scold you, but the omission of your kinswoman from the list of those invited to the ball in your honor is beyond—”

“What?” Thomas stared at Dinah, his eyebrows rising sharply. “Of course you were invited. I gave your name to Governor Tonyn’s secretary.” Now those strong black eyebrows bent into a stormy frown. “I shall investigate the matter and see it set to right. In fact, I shall escort you to the event myself.” He blinked, as if surprised by his own words.

The crowd buzzed and hummed around them, but Dinah could not discern their words. A wave of heat began to surge up her neck and she quickly inhaled to stop it. She had never blushed in her life and would not begin to do so now.

“I thank you, my good kinsman.” She raised her voice slightly for the benefit of their audience. “Now, if you will excuse me…” A quick glance down the lane revealed Anne and Artemis well on their way home.

Thomas followed her gaze, and his frown deepened. “My dear sister-in-law, may I escort you home? I should like to speak to Mr. Hussey on a matter of some importance.”

He offered his arm, and Dinah set her gloved hand on his forearm, grateful for his gesture and for his familial address. That should prevent gossip. Or so she hoped.

They took their leave of Elizabeth, and the crowd dispersed, as if understanding they had been dismissed.

And now Dinah had only to contend with her giddy heart, which seemed to have a mind of its own regarding Thomas Moberly.

Chapter Six

As Thomas escorted Dinah away from the throng, his emotions warred within him. That Hussey fellow deserved a good thrashing for leaving a young lady to see herself home. Yet Thomas could not deny he welcomed the opportunity to serve in that capacity himself…not to mention he was relieved to escape the crowd of churchgoers who behaved as if they had never before seen an officer in His Majesty’s navy. An oddity, to be sure, since he understood that the two other frigate captains and their officers also frequented St. Peter’s. Today, their ships were on patrol, as his would be in another week.

Thomas wondered whether the gaggle of matchmaking mothers had pushed forth their daughters for introductions to the other captains. Whether gentlemen clamored for their attention and promised all sorts of diversions from hunting to billiards. What madness! It was all he could do not to laugh out loud at these colonials. While he might be admired in London Society, at least the ladies there exhibited a bit more decorum.

He glanced down at his companion and saw her pursed lips just below her hat brim. It was too much. Suddenly lighthearted, he chuckled at the absurdity. Dinah tilted her head prettily, peered up at him and released her own musical laughter.

“Am I to assume,” he said, “this is not the usual Sunday morning in St. Augustine?”

Her merriment increased until her brown eyes watered. “Oh, no. Well, perhaps our citizenry grows a bit more…lively whenever a new regimental officer arrives.” She wiped away a tear and shook her head. “So you can imagine how they respond to the rare arrival of new naval officers.”

“Unlike yourself.” He meant to tease her, but his tone sounded wrong in his ears, more an accusation. More the way he would speak to an insubordinate sailor.

Suddenly sober, she gazed up at him, and he steeled himself to hear an affirmation of his ill-spoken words. But she did not speak for several moments as they continued down the narrow street.

“Tell me, Captain,” she said at last, “do you enjoy discussions regarding religion?”

Surprised, but glad for the change of subject, he considered the question. “When I was a lad, my family did not speak of our faith, but we attended services without fail. One is expected to set an example whether as the son of a nobleman or as an officer in the military.” He paused, hoping his reference to being wellborn did not sound arrogant. “Until I met your good brother, I do not recall ever having a deep conversation about religion with anyone.”

Her lovely smile returned, and her eyes shone with pride. “Jamie is rather bold about such matters, is he not?”

“He is, much to his credit. My brother Robert and I have both benefitted by his concern for our souls.” And their eldest brother, Lord Bennington, as well, although the newly-elevated earl might not acknowledge it.

“And of course Frederick and Marianne.” Her eyebrows rose.

“Marianne has always been a woman of faith.”

“Yes, she is much like Anne.” She was silent for a moment, but her thoughtful expression kept him from speaking. “You do not mention Frederick.”

“Mmm.” He would not burden her with his fraternal discord. If their planned trip to Bennington Plantation became a reality, she would soon enough see how things stood between his younger brother and him, a thought that did not sit well on his mind.

“Mmm,” she echoed, but her voice and expression held no censure, which Thomas found refreshing, reassuring.

They walked in companionable silence for several moments. At least Thomas hoped she felt as relaxed as he did. The day was fair, if hot, but a few shady oaks and breezes from the ocean gave them intermittent respite from the sun’s rays.

She leaned into his arm in a sociable way but seemed unaware of her own movement. “My purpose in opening the subject of religion is that Reverend Kennedy’s sermon caused me to think. We all require grace ex tended to us. And as we wish to receive it when we err, so should we extend it to those who have offended us.”

He regarded her with interest. “Wise words, Miss Templeton.” The young lady was not only beautiful, but astute as well. As he had assumed during the service, her mind had been on spiritual matters, not the matchmaking schemes that seemed to emanate from some of the other girls.

They neared the whitewashed coquina walls that surrounded her house, and his anger reignited at the thought of seeing Hussey again. “Of course there is a difference between personal affronts and breaking the law. One cannot extend grace to miscreants or any man not doing his duty.”

She questioned him with a frown. “No, of course not. Do you speak of someone in particular?”

Thomas stared over the five-and-a-half-foot barrier that protected the courtyard to see Hussey stride from the house like a preening peacock.

“Ah, there you are, Miss Templeton. Why, Captain Moberly, how good to see you—” Hussey released the iron latch and swung the door inward.

Thomas did not pass through and saw to his satisfaction that his companion hesitated, too. “I cannot return the compliment, sirrah. What do you mean by leaving Miss Templeton at the church to find her way home unescorted?” He heard her soft gasp beside him, but he would not permit her to protect this toad, who now stared at him with mouth agape.

“B-but, sir, this is St. Augustine. We are a walled city, protected from interlopers and wild beasts by armed outposts on the walls, not to mention our well-armed garrison. Who would dare to—” he waved his bony hands about in a nervous manner “—annoy any of the ladies within our fair town?” The pitch of his voice rose to a squeak, and he tugged at his frilled cravat. “On a Sunday morning? In broad daylight?”

Thomas glanced down at Dinah, whose bemused expression gave him pause. Had he erred in his assessment of the situation? Too late, he recalled that Dinah saw to her errands unescorted during the week.

“In any event,” the man said, “Mrs. Hussey and I assumed she would spend hours gossiping with her friends, as is her custom. Is it not, Miss Templeton?”

“I would not say hours—”

“And of course, Mrs. Hussey and I are not given to gossip, especially after a worship service, therefore we returned home. But never mind.” Suddenly all affability, Hussey gestured toward the house. “Do come in, Captain. We would be delighted to have you join us for our midday meal. A modest fare, but wholesome nonetheless.”

A war of thoughts ignited in Thomas’s mind. Hussey’s suggestion that Dinah was a gossip while he was blameless of that shortcoming bordered on being not only a direct insult but also a lie. Grasping for self-control, Thomas quashed the desire to challenge the charge, but now he felt no need to apologize to this boor for his own error. As for spending time in this oaf’s presence or obligating himself by accepting another meal, nothing could be more distasteful. Yet he still must address the missing invitation to the ball. Before he could respond, Dinah’s lavender perfume wafted up to his nostrils, soothing his turmoil, and she gave him a sweet smile. All rancor disappeared. That is, all but his annoyance over the missing invitation.

“You are most hospitable, sir.” Thomas took Dinah’s elbow and guided her through the gate opening.

Hussey watched their movements with narrowed eyes, reminding Thomas of a viper. But the expression melted into an oily smile. Thomas would have to watch his words and actions around this man. And he would endeavor to deliver his next accusation with less force.

Waiting in the parlor for Cook to announce dinner, Dinah shifted uncomfortably on her straight-back chair. She and Anne traded glances. All their efforts at pleasant conversation had failed, and Artemis seemed to have run out of things to boast about. Thomas sat, silent as a stone statue, balancing his teacup and saucer on his knees. From the glint in his eyes, Dinah could see he had more to say to Artemis, perhaps about the missing ball invitation. But for some reason, he had become taciturn the moment they had entered the house, no doubt in deference to Anne. Should Dinah introduce that topic?

“Captain,” Anne said, “is there any way in which the people of St. Augustine might show their appreciation to thee and thy crew for thy protection of our coast? Perhaps the ladies might mend or sew for thee, as we have for the other ships’ crews? Perhaps bake pastries or even prepare a picnic?”

His gaze softened considerably at her words. “How generous, Mrs. Hussey. I thank you for those offers and will not refuse them.” He gave Artemis a sly look.

Dinah almost laughed. Anne had no idea of the opening she had just given the captain.

“We have never been received quite so well as by the people of this fair city.” He took a sip of tea. “In fact, my officers and I anticipate a grand time at the governor’s ball this Friday.” He blinked with seeming innocence, and again Dinah could barely contain her laughter. “You have received your invitation, have you not, Mrs. Hussey?”

Now Anne blinked. “Why, no. But perhaps we were not meant to be included.” She gave him a serene smile. “Despite the friendliness amongst our citizens, we cannot be counted as members of the city’s elite society.”

“Nonsense, my dear,” Artemis blustered. “We are most certainly among the elite.”

“But I put your name on the list myself.” Thomas stared at Artemis. “In this charming yet small walled city, how could an invitation go astray? An invitation that came from the very office in which you are employed?”

“Well, if you must know—” Artemis’s face grew red. “I do have the invitation in my desk.” He stood and straightened his coat, then marched across the tabby floor and into the next room, his bedchamber. In a matter of seconds, he returned, waving the missive in the air. “A man cannot even surprise his wife.”

Dinah pursed her lips and stared down at her tea to keep from looking at anyone else. Artemis would say anything to keep out of trouble with Thomas, as evidenced by his ignoring the captain’s earlier scolding. Thoughts of that morning’s sermon came to mind, and shame pinched her conscience. She truly must stop laughing at Artemis’s expense, no matter how much he irritated her. Remembering Reverend Kennedy’s sermon, she decided she must extend grace to him as the Lord extended grace to her.

“Oh, my dear Artemis,” Anne said, “how kind of thee.” Despite her words, her eyes and voice conveyed a muted rebuke. “I know what I shall wear, but Dinah must have a new gown. Now we may not have enough time to make it.”

Dinah’s heart skipped. She would love something new to wear to such a grand event, but unlike her cousin Rachel, she had never been a swift seamstress.

“Why does she require a new gown?” Artemis still looked flushed. “Such an unnecessary expense—”

“Now, Hussey,” Thomas said, “surely you know ladies always must have a new gown for these occasions.”

“I know no such thing.” Artemis dropped back into his wingback chair. “But now that my surprise has been ruined, I will tell the rest of it. Miss Templeton, I have arranged for Mr. Richland to accompany you.”

Dinah saw Thomas’s gaze cut quickly to her, but she felt too stunned to reply. Mr. Richland owned a plantation. Not only was the man a slaveholder, but he was many years her senior and even had a son near her age. Would Artemis never cease his efforts to marry her to unsuitable men? And what of the captain’s statement, spoken in front of her friends, that he would escort her to the ball? She could not keep from looking at him and knew her expression conveyed the dismay she felt.

He sent her a reassuring smile. “But this will not do.” His smooth, controlled words held a world of authority. “I have promised to take my sister-in-law to the ball myself.”

“But—” Artemis’s face contorted into a variety of expressions, from anger to confusion to helplessness.

Once again Dinah subdued her desire to laugh. Never before had anyone intervened for her as the captain had done today—twice. Her heart warmed even as she cautioned herself against putting too much into the matter. His words proved clearly that he regarded her as his kinswoman, and his actions were simply in keeping with that relationship. She dismissed the disappointment that tried to creep into her with that thought.

In any case, pleasant and a very good friend though the captain might be, he was in the navy.

Thomas wended his way through the streets back to the transformed Franciscan monastery that now served as military barracks. Billeted there, he and his officers found comfortable accommodations and respite from sea duty. Today, he would be pleased to find respite from his own nagging conscience. Not since his foolish adolescence and those first few years in naval service had he struggled so fiercely with his temper. In fact, his steady disposition was an attribute that had often earned him promotions over his fellow officers—that, and his father’s influence, of course.

A stray thought interrupted his line of thinking. He had often wondered if his eldest brother would maintain Father’s influence for him or if Thomas’s advancements would cease. The uncertainty alone was unsettling, but not enough to cause him to abandon self-control. A captain’s temperament must be dependable, not erratic. Therefore he must ascertain the cause of this odd rage within him.

Perhaps the fine church service had stirred his soul, for he found himself lifting a rare prayer that he might know the cause of this weakness. The hawk-like face of Artemis Hussey came to mind, but Thomas rejected such a simple answer. Yes, of course, the man was irritating. But even if he did not display sufficient generosity toward Dinah, he did permit her to live in his home during these difficult times for all Loyalists on these shores. And what choice did she have but to live with the Husseys?

The answer came in the form of another more confounding question that halted Thomas in his path. Why did the young lady live here in this city with such a disagreeable fellow when she could be safely and amiably housed at Bennington Plantation? Renewed anger surged through Thomas’s chest, and he strode toward his barracks while more questions sprang to mind, all directed toward another man who had never been anything but disagreeable to him. A man who should have seen to Dinah’s care just as he had to his sister’s.

Frederick Moberly, his spoiled younger half-brother.

By the time Thomas reached his apartments and his steward had relieved him of his ceremonial sword and jacket and placed a cooling beverage in his hand, he had a fair understanding of what motivated his rage. He had no wish ever to see little Freddy again, much less to convey news of their father’s death. Had he not promised to escort Dinah and Dr. and Mrs. Wellsey through the wilderness to the plantation, and were he not eager to see dear Marianne and her young son, he would dash off a note to Freddy to accompany their eldest brother’s letter.

A wicked thought crossed his mind and he made no attempt to stop it. Perhaps the trip would not be so bad after all if he could witness Freddy’s distress upon learning their father no longer lived and therefore could not ensure his employment.

Guilt smote him. What had Dinah reminded him of from this morning’s sermon? Every person stood in need of grace from time to time and therefore should be willing to extend it to those who offended him. But then, Dinah did not have a brother like Freddy.

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