Read Online The Governess of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky - Free Book Online

first, it wouldn’t be proper for Julia to mention it.
    She shifted her gaze to the flower beds and prayed her friendship with Sarah would grow and that someday they would speak freely about matters that were close to their hearts. Until then, Julia would show Sarah the kindness and acceptance she deserved.

    “This seems to be the problem, sir.” Clark Dalton, Highland’s head gardener, tapped the pipe running down the far wall of the greenhouse. “There’s a leak at the joint, which lowers the pressure and prevents the sprinklers from reaching the plants on the outer edges.”
    William leaned closer, surveying the old pipe. “It looks like we’re losing quite a bit of water.”
    “I’m afraid so, sir. I noticed these loose floorboards this morning. Seems the water has been dripping down and rotting the wood.”
    “It’s probably been going on for some time then.”
    Dalton gave a sober nod. “I thought the warmth of the summer season had lowered the water level and caused the pressure to drop.” He clicked his tongue, looking chagrined. “I’m sorry I misjudged the situation.”
    William straightened. “It’s all right, Dalton. It’s an easy mistake to make. I appreciate you bringing it to my attention.” The gardener seemed to be an intelligent and respectful man, about the same age as William, though he had a stockier build and deeply tanned skin.
    Dalton’s father had been the head gardener until his death last year. The son had been promoted, and now he oversaw two other young men, caring for the greenhouses and grounds as well as the kitchen gardens and flower gardens.
    “I’ve sent a message to Harold Bradley in Fulton,” Dalton continued. “His father helped build the greenhouse and install the pipes. I thought he might be able to help.”
    “Very good. Let me know what he says.”
    “I will, sir.”
    William heard voices in the garden behind the greenhouse. He looked up and spotted Andrew and Millicent running down the garden path. Millicent bent and scooped up a brightly colored leaf, adding it to the collection in her hand. It was good to see them outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine in such a happy and carefree manner. Miss Foster sat on a bench nearby, watching the children and conversing with his sister, Sarah. It pleased him to see Miss Foster there.
    Perhaps she could draw Sarah out and become a companion for her. His sister needed something beyond her books and needlework to occupy her time. He had hoped she would take on the role of mistress at Highland, but she’d always been shy and lacked confidence. He supposed it was because of her withered hand and arm.
    It was such a shame. She had a kind heart and pleasant features, thoughher manner of dress and hairstyle were simple and unadorned. He doubted she would ever marry, since she barely spoke to any of the guests he invited into their home. But that was all right. He loved her, and she would always have a home with him.
    He shifted his gaze back to the pipes. “I hope Bradley can repair it. If he suggests replacing the system, you must speak to me first. We need to solve the problem in the most economical way possible.”
    Dalton continued to stare out the greenhouse window as if he hadn’t heard a word William said.
    William followed his gaze to the young ladies seated in the garden. Did he have his eye on Miss Foster? Had he made her acquaintance? Irritation buzzed along his nerves. “Dalton, are you listening to me?”
    The gardener jerked his gaze back to William and blinked. “What? I’m sorry, sir. I didn’t hear what you said.”
    “Obviously.” He scowled at the gardener. “If you expect to remain employed at Highland, you’d best keep your mind on your work and not on the feminine forms in the garden.”
    Dalton’s ears tinged red. “Yes sir.”
    William finished his instructions to the gardener and left the greenhouse. The children’s laughter echoed back to him as he passed under the archway in