You Spent how much?
Charlotte and Henry had been married for 3 months and they had settled happily into their marriage. They were finding married life in all aspects... every they imagined and more. Henry at times couldn't believe his luck having Charlotte as his wife but most importantly he had an equal partner in life. The renovations of the estate was progressing and all their other business matters were achieving their expected returns. They had not had to travel to London which was a relief to them both.
Charlotte had no idea the extent of the wealth of her husband until she started helping him in the management of all their affairs. She was astounded by the number of properties, families livings and investments... she and their children would never have to worry about their future. One afternoon she was reviewing his ledgers and observed his spending habits during his bachelor years.
Her mouth opened wide as she noticed the huge amount he spent on food, alcohol, clothing and the many activities of a single gentleman. He had clearly saved a huge amount of money by giving up his rouge life and living with her parents!
While she was studying the accounts closely Henry had entered the study and leaned down to give her a kiss. Asking what she was doing so intently.
"You spent how much on brandy?" asked Charlotte looking up with a frown on her face
Henry looking guilty and begged for mercy... "My love, you know I was rouge and dandy. I had no purpose... I don't need those things anymore"
"I am pleased you have changed you ways... we have clearly saved a significant sum of money But in the area of investments... my love, I am impressed with your investing strategy" Charlotte commented while enjoying him rub her back.
Henry looking pleased "I did have moments but I confess most of this happened while I stayed with the Heywood's" embracing his wife as he reflected on that time.
Leaning over her ..."Your investment suggestions"... Henry pointing to particular transactions... have paid off... my love... we are able to renovate the barns as a result of the returns." Charlotte sighing with happiness... Henry always valued her intelligence and business in put.
"Not that I mind you going back in my past spending habits... but why are you looking?" quizzed Henry
"Well, I need to speak with you about an up and coming expense. It looks like not in the distant future I am going to need a new wardrobe". Charlotte looking intently into his face
"You need a new wardrobe... if you need it... do it... your needs come first" Henry simply stated
Charlotte taking his hand and placing it on her stomach and waited for him to comprehend her meaning. It hit him and he gathered her in his arms.
"Is it ok?...I get a new wardrobe? adding a teasing note to her voice and was rewarded with his beaming smilie
"You can do what every you want my love!" tenderly smiled Henry
He had never thought he would be a father... he had always been told he was 'not good enough'... Charlotte had see these thoughts flash across his face
"My love, you will be a good father. I just have to look at the way you love and care for my family. This child is going to be blessed to have you as their father" encouraged Charlotte
"So who is going to tell Lydia and Johanna that they are going to be Aunt's?" laughs Henry
It was certainly entertaining telling the girls that their sister was going to have a baby. The twins for hours would practise using their dolls so they could help look after Charlotte's baby. They were very serious about their responsibility and Grace had to made sure the other children didn't tease them. The twins always wanting to visit Henry and Charlotte or stuck close to them when they visited the Heywood house. They were constantly suggesting names for the baby.
Charlotte and Henry had already the names... John if it was a boy... Grace if it was a girl.