Arthur and Augusta had been silent during the entire tea, simply munching away on their treats and watching the interactions. Arthur was particularly interested in anything regarding Georgiana while Augusta was focused intently on the interactions between Miss Heywood and her guardian. As things began to come to a natural conclusion and plans were being made for the outing, they both looked for ways to contribute to the conversation.
Georgiana. Are you sure that I should not accompany you as well?
She started to speak and paused to take a breath. She was sitting next to Arthur and gently put her hand on his, smiling gently.
She turned to Mr. Colbourne and she asked him "Sir, your connections in the community of abolitionists and free people … are they not wary of strangers? Is it not likely to impede our queries if we make folk nervous? Would Arthur's presence pose an obstacle?"
Mr. Colbourne looked thoughtful. "Perhaps on a second or third visit it would not be a problem, but I do think that the first time we should keep the group as small as possible. If we did not need a chaperone I would not ask Char, um, Miss Heywood to accompany us, as much as I appreciate her presence ."
Georgiana and Arthur looked at one another and he nodded sharply as she patted his hand. His eyes softened, he understood. "Next time" she said softly. She knew he only had her best interests at heart.
Augusta, not to be forgotten, piped up. "Miss Heywood, would you come up to the nursery with me? I know Leo will feel sorely disappointed if she does not get a moment to tell you about her menagerie."
"Of course, Augusta. Let us adjourn to the nursery for a moment. I shall gladly observe this new "menagerie" of Leo's." She giggled indulgently.
