GRACEHAVEN Copy

Mr. Merton sniffs. "Dinner's in an hour. You'll be expected downstairs. Sally will show you to your room." He turns and leaves abruptly. Sally, the housekeeper, takes your valise from the coach and smiles. "Don't mind Mr Merton," she says, kindly. "He's a bit rough around the edges, but his heart is in the right place. You must be tired. Where shall I take you?" [[Go to your Room|Go to Room]] [[Take a Bath|Take a Bath]]

Your are relieved to see that your new room seems agreeable enough. There is an ornate wardrobe to unpack your things, a bed and a window overlooking the grounds. In the distance, you can see the ruin of Gracehaven Abbey rising above the trees. As you dress for dinner, you take a look around the room. [[Unpack your Things|Examine the Wardrobe]] [[Contemplate Gracehaven Abbey|Enter Eliza]]

Lighting the candle, Eliza leads you down a long passage to the dining room, where, lit with tapers, a group of young people are gathered around a long dining table. "Prudence, allow me to introduce my brother, Frederick. Beside him, in the army uniform, is Mr. Henley, and that young lady is Georgiana Henley, his sister." Georgiana, a pretty young lady with fashionable ringlets, nods at you, and smiles. "How do you do?" [[Curtsey to Georgiana|Greet Georgiana]] [[Compliment her dress|Compliment Georgiana]]

The tall, carved wooden wardrobe is a type in common usage in the last century. You open the heavy door and look inside. It is clean and empty, except for a spare blanket. You are unpacking your things when you hear a girlish voice behind you. "You must be the new guest! Father told me you'd be here." [[Close the Wardrobe Door|Close the Wardrobe Door]]

"Forgive me for not waiting until dinner to be introduced," Eliza continues," but I'm so excited to have a friend here at Gracehaven. I've been stuck here with my brother and his friends all summer, and I'm sooo bored! "Tell me: have you any news of London? Or have you read a good novel?" [[Sorry, I've never been to London.|Country Girl]] [[Talk about London fashions. |News of London]] [[Have I! Let me make you a reading list. |A Good Novel]]

Pretty soon, you have Eliza eating out of your hand as you describe the latest London fashions. You don't outright lie... but if Eliza thinks you've spent time in London society, so much the better. [[Continue|Cont Eliza]]

"I am a great fan of gothic novels," you confess. "Particularly ones with crumbling abbeys!" Eliza is clearly charmed by your guilelessness. She clasps your hand with a conspiratorial giggle. "Me too! Don't you just love spooky stories? And - our Abbey is haunted!" "I can tell we are going to be great friends," says Eliza, confidently. [[Continue|Cont Eliza]]

"He's here!" Eliza says, excitedly. "In fact, you'll meet him at dinner. He's quite handsome," she adds, blushing furiously. You're dying to press her for details about Henley, but you aren't sure if you know her well enough. Perhaps it's better to change the subject? [[Change the subject.|Ask About the Abbey]] [[Press her for a confidence about Henley.|Eliza's Confession]]

"The old abbey," you say, indicating it. "I'd love to know more about its history." "Oh, it's quite horrific!" says Eliza, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Some say that a woman killed herself there, and that's why it was abandoned. At night, you can hear her keening in the wind!" Seeing your eyes go wide, Eliza giggles. "Come. You must meet my brother Frederick. He knows all about the abbey!" [[Go to dinner. |Meet the Other Guests]]

The bumpy country roads toss you around the carriage as you hurtle toward Gracehaven Manor. There is the smell of electricity in the air, mingled with the English countryside, as a sudden summer storm threatens the skies overhead. "Fine weather for a holiday," you think to yourself. A few drops of rain mar the increasingly gloomy view through your window. You wonder what could have possessed your father to send you to the small country village of Gracehaven, alone. You remember the letter that he pressed into your hand as you mounted the carriage. It might shed some light on his intentions. [[Read the Letter|Read the Letter]] [[Look Out the Window|Contemplate the Abbey]]

You open the letter in your lap and begin reading: "March 10, 1794 My dearest daughter, Please forgive my rushing you to Gracehaven this summer without explanation or ceremony. You deserve to know the truth. Since the death of your mother, you may recall that I have been spending much of my time in London on business. I am ashamed to admit that, in the course of that endeavor, I have taken up a habit of playing cards at the men's club where I take my dinner. In my grief, I perhaps spent too much time and money in that particular pastime. In short, I have run us into bankruptcy. [[Bankruptcy?|Continue Reading]] [[Skip to the End|Skip to the End]]

As you look out the window, you contemplate the reasons why your father might have sent you away for the summer. He seemed more preoccupied than usual the last time he returned from London. Possibly he was brooding about... [[His excessive debts|Excessive debts]] [[The death of your mother|Death of your mother]] [[The future of his only daughter|Your future]]

Evening falls on Gracehaven Manor as you arrive. An older man in worn clothes and wild hair lights a lamp at the doorway. When he sees you descending from the carriage, he approaches you. His face is serious, but his aspect is kind. "You must be the daughter of my former barrister," he says, with a smile. "What a good man your father is. He was like a brother to me! Why, when I began to lose my eyesight, he took over all my affairs. An upstanding gentleman. So trustworthy! Why, the most admirable man I've ever met in my life!" [[Well, actually... |Tell the Truth]] [[ Yes, he is quite admirable. |Shine Him On]] [[The miserable reprobate gambled away our house.|Reprobate]]

(set: $tossLetter to true)\ You ball the letter up and throw it out the window. "Miserable reprobate," you mutter to yourself. With a jolt, the carriage comes to a halt. [[Arrive at Gracehaven|Arrive at Gracehaven]]

You fold the letter carefully and place it in your reticule. Well, I've never met General Merton, but Dad trusts him, you think. And so, it appears, must I. With a jolt, the carriage comes to a halt. [[Arrive at Gracehaven|Arrive at Gracehaven]]

You read on: "I must sell the estate and go to sea, where I hope to regain our fortune by trading in the West Indies. My darling daughter, it shames me to confess it to you, as you are a blameless and most accomplished young lady, deserving of all that is finest in life... It goes on like this for another page or so. Father does tend to ramble. [[Continue reading the letter|Continue 2]] [[Skip to the end|Skip to the End]]

"I am sending you to live at the home of my former patron, General Merton. There, you may be introduced to society while under his loving protection, and cultivate the gentle decorum which befits country life. There is nothing else for it, my dear: you must find a husband with an income. A thousand pounds a year should suffice to keep us both. Best of luck. When I return from my voyage, I hope to find you well settled with good friends and a fine estate. Forgive me, Papa" Speechless, you let the letter drop in your lap. [[Continue|Speechless]]

(this is where you would pick a name if we had a name generator.) For now, we will call you: PRUDENCE. [[Continue.|Welcome]]

Mr Merton's face darkens, all kindness drained from it. "Gambled it away?" He says. "Ah, I see the complete picture." [[Continue|Continue]]

"I'm sorry," you say. "We got off on the wrong foot. While my circumstances may be reduced, I assure you I will be no trouble to you." [[My name is...|Pick a Name]]

"Look," you say. "I'm very tired. It's been a long journey. Would it be possible to get a bath and some food?" Mr. Merton peers at you disagreeably. "Not only a fortune hunter, but a rude one who speaks ill of her own father. Very well. Sally, get the little savage a bath and we'll figure out where to put her tomorrow. Her manners recommend her to the stable." [[I'm sorry. We got off on the wrong foot. |Happy Aaron]] [[The little savage has a name. |Pick a Name]]

"Mr. Merton," you begin, "It grieves me to tell you this, but my father is not the most upstanding man you ever met. In fact, his debts have forced him to find his fortune in the West Indies. He has completely bankrupted our family." Mr. Merton blinks in disbelief. "But... how can this be? How did he lose his money?" [[He gambled it all away.|He Gambled it Away]] [[He made some... unfortunate investments.|Father Was Not Good With Money]]

"Indeed he is," you say, mustering a smile. "And he speaks most highly of you!" Mr. Merton is pleased to hear it. "Welcome, my dear," he says. "And... what shall we call you?" [[My name is...|Pick a Name]]

"Father was never very good with money," you confess. It's not exactly a lie, but it whitewashes the truth enough to make your arrival a bit more comfortable. Mr. Merton nods. "That is true," he says ruefully. "His heart was in the right place... but he was always at the card table. " [[Continue|Continue]]

You turn around to see: Eliza, the youngest daughter of the Merton household. She has a bright, open countenance which you find immediately engaging. [[Greet Eliza |Meet Eliza]]

"I'm sorry," you say, blushing. "I'm afraid I wouldn't know a London hat from a poke bonnet." Eliza is clearly charmed by your guilelessness. She clasps your hand with a conspiratorial giggle. "Well whatever you do, my dear: don't tell Georgiana. She talks of nothing else but turbans and silk stockings!" [[Continue|Cont Eliza]]

Your window affords a clear view of the Abbey. Around the intact bell tower, portions of the medieval roof have fallen to ruin. From this angle, it almost seems as though you can see a woman's figure in the bell tower, framed by the dwindling light... "You must be the new guest! Father told me you'd be here." A girlish voice startles you, and you turn around to see: Eliza, the youngest daughter of the Merton household. She has a bright, open countenance which you find immediately engaging. [[Greet Eliza |Meet Eliza]]

"He's here!" Eliza says, excitedly. "In fact, you'll meet him at dinner. I'm sure he'll be happy to see you again! " Uh oh. [[Change the subject.|Ask About the Abbey]] [[Press her about Henley.|Eliza's Confession]] [[Go to dinner and hope for the best. |Meet the Other Guests]]

"Do I detect some feeling for our Mr. Henley?" You venture, delicately. Eliza blushes even more furiously. "Oh, I'm sure they all know. Frederick and Georgiana tease me mercilessly. But I can't help it. He looks so dashing in his uniform!" [[There's more to love than a dashing uniform.|Overstepping]] [[I know what you mean.|Sympathy]]

"Careful," you admonish the young girl. "A dashing uniform does not make a great husband." Eliza visibly chills. "Thank you for the advice," she says, in a tone of voice that lets you know that she never asked for any. You wonder if you've spoiled a perfectly good friendship as she gestures for you to follow. "Come. Let's go down to dinner," she says. [[Try to patch things up.|Sympathy]] [[Go to dinner. |Meet the Other Guests]]

"I understand," you say, sympathetically. "Sometimes its hard to hide our feelings, even when it means braving ridicule." Eliza smiles. "I can tell we are going to be friends," she says, confidently. Come. Let's go down to dinner. I'll introduce you." [[Ask about the Abbey.|Ask About the Abbey]] [[Go to dinner. |Meet the Other Guests]]

You sit beside Georgiana. She seems talkative and friendly. Perhaps she can be your guide to manners at Gracehaven. She looks past you at Eliza. "You barely introduced us, Eliza," she chides. "Tell us, what is your charming friend doing at Gracehaven?" "You know, I completely forgot to ask!" Says Eliza, laughing. "What does bring you to Gracehaven, Prudence?" [[My father thought it would improve my manners.|Georgiana at Gracehaven]] [[I'm looking for a husband.|Husband hunting]]

You take a seat beside the mysterious James. You're drawn to him, perhaps because he is so self-contained. He barely seems to notice you're there. You venture an ice-breaker. [[So. Where are you from?|James at Gracehaven]] [[How do you know Frederick? |University Days]] [[How much money do you have?|An Affront to Good Taste]]

"A pleasure to meet you, Miss," you say to Georgiana, with a deep curtsey. Georgiana can barely stifle a laugh. "'Miss?'" she scoffs. "Goodness, who are you? The village shepherdess?" You blush furiously, embarrassed. Eliza takes your elbow and directs you to another guest. [[Greet James|Greet James]]

"I love your dress," you say to Georgiana appreciatively. Georgiana is flattered. "Thank you!" She says. "I bought it in this precious shop in town. You must allow me to take you there while you're here." You smile warmly at Georgiana, as Eliza takes your elbow and directs you to another guest. [[Greet James|Greet James]]

"And this is Mr. James Radcliffe, my brother's friend from Oxford. He has joined us for the summer!" she adds, with an air of false cheerfulness that seems to indicate that she has no idea why Mr. James Radcliffe is here. James Radcliffe, himself, is handsome, in a dark and stormy way, but seems distant and preoccupied. "Hmnm," says Mr. Radcliffe, by way of introduction. [[Compliment James|Compliment James]] [[Try a more formal greeting |Formal James]]

"That's a very nice... tie," you say to James, trying to find a flattering thing to say. James Radcliffe stares at you with a look of horror. He says nothing. There's a moment of uncomfortable silence. Georgiana laughs. "That will never do, Prudence," she says. "A gentleman never appreciates a compliment. You must treat them with more spirit!" (if: (history:) contains "Hoisted on Petard")[ [[Continue|Meet Mr. Henley]]] (else:) [[[Sit down to dinner.|Choose a Seat]]]

"How do you do, Mr. Radcliffe," you say, with a deep curtsey. This seems to get the attention of the preoccupied Mr. Radcliffe. He forces a strained smile, nodding in your direction. (if: (history:) contains "Hoisted on Petard")[ [[Continue|Meet Mr. Henley]]] (else:) [[[Sit down to dinner.|Choose a Seat]]]

"Please, Prudence, join us, and sit where you like," says Frederick Merton, with a friendly air. "Father is not joining us tonight, and we don't stand on ceremony." You look around the table and survey your choice of dinner companions. There are two seats left: one next to Georgiana, and one next to James. [[Sit by Georgiana.|Sit by Georgiana]] [[Sit by James. |Sit by James]]

"What part of the country do you hail from, Mr. Radcliffe?" you ask. Radcliffe seems uncomfortable with being asked the question. "I have an estate in the North," he answers, gruffly. [[How do you know Frederick? |University Days]] [[Is it a very large estate?|An Affront to Good Taste]] [[Very pretty country up North.|North Country]]

"Do you know Frederick from University?" You venture hesitantly. Mr. Radcliffe nods. It's clear that talking to you makes him visibly uncomfortable, but he blurts out: "Both Frederick and Henry were in my class at Balliol. We met as freshmen. We rode here from my family's estate the North country." [[Good friends are hard to find. |Friends]] [[Very pretty country up North.|North Country]] [[This estate... how much is it worth, do you think?|An Affront to Good Taste]]

You jump right into the matter at hand. "How big would you say your estate is, roughly?" James Radcliffe just stares at you in horror. The whole room falls silent. Georgiana laughs. "Desperation is never attractive, my dear. Try something else." [[How do you know Frederick? |University Days]] [[Apologize|Was it something I said?]]

"Oh, the Abbey!" Frederick leans forward. "Yes, it's full of secret passages. They're called 'priest holes.' During the Reformation, priests would hide there to avoid being killed by the Protestants." "Good lord," says Georgiana, her eyes as wide as saucers. "Killing priests? That seems excessive, doesn't it?" [[Ask about the priests.|Ask about the priest.]] [[Ask about the secret passages.|Am I safe?]] (if: (history:) contains "Find the trap door")[ [[I think one of those secret passages leads to my room.|Ask about the trapdoor]]] (if: (history:) contains "Ask About the Abbey")[ [[Ask about the ghost.|Ask about the ghost.]]]

"My father sent me here for the summer. He seems to think it would improve my manners," you reply, lightly. Georgiana's laugh trills through the halls. "Not likely with this lot, Prudence. We'll lead you astray faster than the devil himself." You're so relieved to have passed muster that it takes you a moment to catch the meaning in her twinkling eyes. Is she.. flirting with you? [[And what about you? Will you lead me astray?|Flirt with Georgiana]] [[Make small talk|Oh the Turbanity]] [[Nod and smile|Nod and smile]]

"I hear turbans are all the rage in London right now," you say out loud, to no-one in particular. Georgiana nods. "Everything's gone Turkish, " she pouts. "It looks hideous on me, but I do adore fashion!" (if: (history:) contains "Sit by Georgiana")[[[Continue|Gossip]]] (if: (history:) contains "Sit by James")[ [[Ask about the Abbey|Change the subject]]]

"Eliza tells me there is a ghost of a woman that haunts the Abbey," you say. "Who is she?" Georgiana smiles. "A disappointed lover, no doubt," she smirks. "Indeed." Frederick nods. "Some say she is the lover of a priest who was burned alive during the Reformation." "Burned alive!?" Mr. Henley is visibly repulsed by the idea. [[Who was this priest?|The Tale of Brother Harmon]] [[Burned alive?|The Tale of Brother Harmon]] [[So... about these secret passages...|Am I safe?]]

"Speaking of secret passages," you say, trying to keep it light, "there appears to be one that leads to my wardrobe." "Did you know about it, Frederick?" Cries Eliza. Frederick gets very solemn. "I did," he says. "That passage was bricked up long ago. But it was the one that Brother Harmon used to visit his secret lover." [[Secret Lover?|The Tale of Brother Harmon]] [[So... nobody is using it now, right?|Am I safe?]]

You wonder why he would send you to the home of his former patron, General Merton. Father muttered something about "being introduced to society." It's true that at home, you had no nearby neighbors. As a young woman of marriageable age, it stands to reason that your father would want you to spend the summer among other young people your age. But maybe there's more to it than that? [[Read the Letter|Read the Letter]]

"My father thought I could find a husband here," you say, smirking. Georgiana laughs, lightly. She looks round the table to see who heard. Then raising her napkin to her lips, she leans in close. "Don't even bother with Frederick or my brother," she whispers. "They don't go that way... if you know what I mean." [[Continue.|Gossip]]

"And what about you?" you ask in a whisper. "Will you lead me astray?" Dabbing her lips delicately with a napkin, Georgiana smiles. "Come find me later," she says. "And you'll find out." [[Continue|Gossip]]

Changing the subject, you turn to Frederick. "Eliza tells me you know all about the Abbey," you venture. "Oh, yes!" Cries Eliza. "Frederick, do tell the story about the priests getting strung up and burned alive in the Abbey!" [[Frederick Tells Ghost Stories|Frederick Tells Ghost Stories]]

"Ha, ha!" You give a little hollow laugh. "I'm sorry, my journey has left me tired and I fear my little joke has missed the mark. So..." [[How do you know Frederick? |University Days]] [[Where did you say you were from?|James at Gracehaven]]

"Good friends are a blessing in this world," you say, sympathetically. "They are indeed!" Says Mr. Radcliffe, with some emotion. "Without good friends like Frederick and Henley, I should be completely lost. When I leave my home, I shall need all the friends I can get." [[Why would you need to leave home? |Disinherited]] [[I, too am in need of friends.|I Too Need Friends]]

"I hear the North is quite beautiful," you venture. Mr. Radcliffe seems to relax visibly. "It is," he says, softly. "Beautiful, but desolate. I love to wander the moors, particularly on a wild night such as this." As if to underscore his point, thunder rattles the windows of the dining room. [[Have you met Eliza? I think you'd like each other.|Talk about Eliza]] [[Your home sounds lovely.|Inheritance]]

Radcliffe smiles warmly. "I'm so glad you said so," he says. "Money and loyalty are important, but sincerity - that is something I value above all things." Eliza catches sight of the two of you smiling at one another. "My goodness," she teases lightly. "Are Prudence and Mr. Radcliffe canoodling?" [[Ask about the Abbey.|Change the subject]] [[Talk about hats.|Oh the Turbanity]]

"Have you met Eliza?" you say. "I feel like you two would get along." Radcliffe smiles faintly. "Eliza is like a sister to me, and I love her dearly," he says. "But she does have a morbid turn of mind, doesn't she?" [[She is very nice, though.|Sincerity]] [[I, too am in need of friends.|I Too Need Friends]]

"Your home sounds lovely," you say. Radcliffe nods. "The estate has been in my family for years. I love every inch of its moors and hills. It will be a shame to leave it." [[Leave it? |Disinherited]] [[You and Eliza would get along.|Talk about Eliza]]

"Why would you need to leave your home?" You cry. Touched by your feeling, Radcliffe smiles. "When my older brother marries this year, he inherits the estate. I have a small allowance, but I will need to make my way in the world." [[I know the feeling.|I Too Am Poor]] [[Have you met Eliza? I feel like you would like each other.|Talk about Eliza]]

"I, too, have been obliged to make my own way in the world," you say. Mr. Radcliffe leans forward earnestly. "But... why? What's going on?" He asks. You look into his eyes. He seems genuinely concerned. [[I hardly know you.|New Phone Who Dis]] [[Make something up.|Lie Again]] [[Tell him the truth.|Tell him the truth]]

"I, too, am in need of true friends," you say. Mr. Radcliffe leans forward earnestly. "But... why? What's going on?" He asks. He seems genuinely concerned. [[I hardly know you.|New Phone Who Dis]] [[Make something up.|Lie Again]] [[Tell him the truth.|Tell him the truth]]

"I'm sorry, Mr. Radcliffe, but I'm afraid I don't know you well enough," you reply. All right," he says. Then, hesitantly, he adds: "If you are in some trouble... I would like to help, if I can." [[Seriously, I'm fine!|I'm fine]] [[Tell him the truth.|Tell him the truth]]

You find yourself telling a tale in which you are, apparently, a worthy orphan: disinherited, noble, possibly of royal blood - but, friendless and poor. "And so you find me, Mr. Radcliffe: in reduced circumstances," you conclude, ruefully. "Mr. Merton took me in out of sheer pity." "My word," Radcliffe says, stunned. "Can this be true?" [[Every bit of it.|Sincerity]] [[No, I made it all up.|Tell him the truth]] [[Reassure him you'll be ok.|I'm fine]]

You take a deep breath, and tell Radcliffe the whole story. Your father's bankruptcy, the West Indies - all of it. You hold nothing back. "My goodness," Radcliffe says, stunned. "And your father just... left you here on Merton's doorstep?" [[Pretty much.|Sincerity]] [[Put on a brave face.|I'm fine]]

"Thanks for your concern," you say, "but I'm fine. Really." Radcliffe is chastened. He nods. "Forgive the intrusion," he says gruffly,and falls silent. It appears your conversation has come to an uncomfortable end. [[Continue|Change the subject]]

You wonder if you should tell Eliza about the trapdoor you found earlier.

"Who were these unfortunate priests?" You ask. "Franciscan monks, really," says Frederick. He leans forward over the candle, which throws a disconcerting light over his face. "The most unfortunate of all was Brother Harmon." Eliza claps her hands with glee. "I love the story of Brother Harmon!" [[Listen to the story of Brother Harmon|The Tale of Brother Harmon]]

"A hundred years ago," Frederick intones, over the guttering candles, "The Abbey was a vibrant place, with a garden, a winery, and a brotherhood of monks who tended both. Brother Harmon was one of these." "In those days, monastaries were pretty lax," he adds, shrugging. "Oftentimes, the devotional life was simply a place to dump relatives who had become... inconvenient." [[Inconvenient how?|The Inconvenient Relative]] [[Sounds quite lovely, actually.|Monastic Life]]

"These secret passages... nobody is using them now, right?" You ask, hesitantly. Eliza laughs. "Why, what a vivid imagination you have, Prudence," she says. "No, of course nobody is using them now." "Trust me," says Frederick. "All the passages were bricked up long ago. Even if someone wanted to use them to travel to the abbey - they'd hit a wall." [[Never mind. Go on with your story.|The Tale of Brother Harmon]] [[Ask about the priests.|Ask about the priest.]]

"These relatives... how were they 'inconvenient,' exactly?" you ask, apprehensively. Frederick shrugs. "Gay brothers... unmarried sisters... second or third sons with nothing to inherit... the mad, the stupid, the rebellious. They could be packed off to a life of 'work and prayer' without a whole lot of fuss." The table falls quiet. Everyone seems to be sneaking sideways glances at everyone else. Except Eliza, who loves this story. [[Ok, we get the picture.|Monastic Life]] [[Let's get to the burning part.|Rebecca]]

"In many ways, it was, indeed, an idyllic life," continues Frederick. "For a long time, Gracehaven was a quiet, protected place. Brother Harmon and Rebecca, the lady of the house, were free to live their lives in undisturbed bliss - walking the garden, discussing their books, drinking their wine." But then the Reformation came, and changed all that." [[Wait. Who is Rebecca?|Rebecca]] [[Were they... intimate?|Intimate friends]] [[Back up a second.. what's "the Reformation"?|The Reformation]]

"Ah yes," says Frederick, ruefully. "The burning part." The guttering candles throw long, looming shadows on the walls, as he continues: "One day, the agents of the Reformation came for Brother Harmon. To them, he represented everything that was wrong with the Catholic church: hypocrisy. Licentiousness. Corruption." [[Winemaking.|The Wine]] [[Did he hide in the secret passages? |Secret Passages]]

"Our great grandmother, Rebecca, donated the manor library to the Abbey upon her husband's death," continues Frederick. "It brought her into frequent contact with Brother Harmon, and they became... quite intimate." [[More than friends, intimate?|Intimate friends]]

"Their relationship was certainly inappropriate, by the standards of the day," admits Frederick. "And... well they had all those secret passages, didn't they?" "They were lovers!" cries Georgiana. "How scandalous!" "How romantic," sighs Eliza. "Don't you think so, Prudence?" [[Sure, except for the burning part.|The Burning Part]] [[Cast a sidelong glance at Georgiana.|Sidelong Georgiana]] [[Cast a sidelong glance at Mr. Radcliffe.|Sidelong James]]

"Winemaking," you say, smirking. Georgiana laughs. "Stop interrupting!" cries Eliza. "Okay, okay!" you and Georgiana are in laughing fits. "Sorry. I'll be good." [[Continue your story.|The Burning Part Two]] [[But what about all those secret passages? |Secret Passages]]

"Rebecca threw herself from the bell tower," Frederick replies, simply. "Sometimes, at night, you can still see her figure in the bell tower, and hear her keening in the wind." As if on cue, the wind blows through the stone hallway, slamming a window shut, and blowing out a candle. [[Okay! Time for bed.|Say Goodnight]] [[Run away.|Run away]]

"But what about all those secret passages?" you ask. "Surely he could have hidden out in those for days." "He did," replies Frederick. ""Rebecca tried to hide her secret lover in the passages - there were places underground where he could hide for days, even weeks. But it wasn't enough." [[Oh no. Is this the burning part?|The Burning Part Two]]

James Radcliffe gives you a dirty look. "Not really funny, Prudence," he says. "Sorry," you say, coloring with shame. "I thought we could us a laugh." [[What about Rebecca?|She roams these halls]] [[I could use some of that wine, actually.|Go Get Some Wine]]

"They dragged Brother Harmon from the Abbey, and made an example of him," Frederick continues, quietly. "They piled up the books from the library in the courtyard, set a stake in it, and set him on fire. Rebecca watched from the bell tower as everything she loved went up in flames: her lover, her books, the garden." Even James gasps at this. "Good lord," he mutters, shocked. [[What about the wine? Was the wine ok?|Enough with the Wine]] [[What about Rebecca?|She roams these halls]]

"Well! It's been a lovely evening," you venture, "But I think it's time we went to bed." "Bed!" Cries Georgiana. "Good lord, after that story, I'll be staring at the walls until dawn." "Are you sure?" Asks Frederick. "The night is young, and Henley just went to get some more wine." [[Go to your own room.|Go to your room]] [[Stay and wait for Henley.|Wait for Henley]]

"I could use some of that wine right about now, actually," you say. "Me too," says Mr. Henley. "I don't suppose there's any in the cellar?" "Is there? I'd love to try it," Georgiana chimes in. Henley gets up to go look. The wind picks up, moaning through the chinks in the windows. A chill creeps over you. There's only one question left to ask. [[What happened to Rebecca?|She roams these halls]]

"Suit yourself," says Georgiana. "Say there," says Frederick. What are you two whispering about?" [[Ask About the Abbey.|Change the subject]]

"Come in," General Merton says gruffly. He is holding a crumpled, damp piece of paper in his hand. You can see that it is your father's letter. "This was found by our groundskeeper. Is it yours?" he bellows. [[I see you've found father's letter.|Own up]] [[That's not mine!|Lie About Letter]] [[Run away|The moors]]

I'm very tired," you say. "I've enjoyed the evening, and the story. But I must rest." "Tomorrow if the weather is fine, you must take a walk with us to the Abbey," ventures Frederick. "Oh, you must!" cries Eliza. [[I'd like that very much.|Invite to the Abbey]] [[The Abbey with the ghost? No thanks.|Invite Haunted Abbey]] [[Is James going?|Is James going?]]

Unable to contain your fear, you run down the halls. Georgiana calls after you. "Prudence!" she cries. "Please come back! It's cold outside!" [[Wait for Georgiana|The halls]] [[Go back|Wait for Henley]]

"Well, all right," you say. "Perhaps its better to stay in company, anyway." "Quite right," says Georgiana. "Sit with us, my dear, and calm your nerves after that horrid story." Henley returns with the wine and pours out a cup for each of you. You are starting to warm to the idea of spending time with the young people of Gracechurch Manor. Perhaps this summer won't be horrible, after all. (if: (history:) contains "Punting Party")[ [[Continue|The Out Crowd]]] (else:) [[[Continue|The In Crowd]]]

You let your eyes plead with Mr. Radcliffe from across the room. He steps up. "Mr. Merton," he interjects. "I have passed a pleasant evening with this young lady, and I can assure you: while she may sometimes be.. imprudent, she is, in her heart, perfectly sincere." [[Imprudent?|Don't Push Your Luck]] [[Thank you!|Gratitude]]

There's no point running from the truth of your situation. The best you can do is stand your ground, and own up to it. "I see you've found my father's letter," you say. "Your father is a bankrupt, and you've come to my house to seek a fortune," Merton bellows. "You're here to take advantage of my family. Do you deny it?" [[Hold up. I'm no fortune hunter.|I do deny it]] [[How is this my fault?|Insolent]] [[Appeal to Frederick|Appeal to Frederick]]

"Oh, that!" you try to laugh it off. "That's not mine. What a curious thing to find. Where was it?" "Inside a crumpled envelope with your name on it," says Merton. <Uh oh. It seems you have dug yourself in deeper. "What do you have to say for yourself?" Thunders General Merton. "I... I was..." [[holding it for someone else|Holding]] [[writing a draft of a pastoral novel|Creative]] [[Own up to the letter|Own up]] [[Run away|The moors]]

"Mr, Merton," you begin. "I admit that I may have sometimes...embellished the truth to ease my passage. But I swear it was never my intention to take advantage of you, or anyone else here. My affection for you and your family is sincere. I didn't even know my father was bankrupt until I was already in the carriage." Merton is having none of it. "Turn her out of this house immediately." he says. You look around. Georgiana, Henley, James and Eliza are all standing in the doorway, watching. You try to muster some dignity. [[Deliver a passionate speech on the Rights of Women.|Rights of Women]] [[I'm leaving anyway.|Get Your Things]] [[Make me.|Make me]] (if: (history:) contains "Tell him the truth")[ [[Appeal to Mr. Radcliffe|Appeal to Mr. Radcliffe]]] (if: (history:) contains "Flirt with Georgiana")[ [[Appeal to Georgiana|Appeal to Georgiana]]]

"Mr. Merton," you say."Am I to answer for the sins of my father? I admit that I may have sometimes...embellished the truth. And I am seeking my fortune, the same as any young woman might in my circumstances. But I didn't even know my father was bankrupt until I was already on my way here." Merton is having none of it. "Turn her out of this house immediately." he says. You look around. Georgiana, Henley, James and Eliza are all standing in the doorway, watching. You try to muster some dignity. [[I'm leaving anyway.|Get Your Things]] [[Make me.|Make me]] (if: (history:) contains "Tell him the truth")[ [[Appeal to Mr. Radcliffe|Appeal to Mr. Radcliffe]]] (if: (history:) contains "Flirt with Georgiana")[ [[Appeal to Georgiana|Appeal to Georgiana]]]

"I was trying my hand at a novel!" You exclaim. "The heroine is a worthy orphan, you see... she's down on her luck... and, uh --" Merton is having none of it. "Turn her out of this house immediately." he says. You look around. Georgiana, Henley, James and Eliza are all standing in the doorway, watching. You try to muster some dignity. [[I'm leaving anyway.|Get Your Things]] [[Make me.|Make me]] [[Own up to the letter|I do deny it]]

Georgiana interjects. "Mr. Merton," says Georgiana, hesitantly, "I can vouch for the character of this young lady. I don't know her well, but from what I can tell, she is quite sensible and warmhearted." "Perhaps," she adds, "You'll allow me to take her under my wing? I am sure we can find an appropriate situation for her - if not at Gracehaven, perhaps... elsewhere?" [[Appeal to his sense of history|Appeal to Rebecca]] [[Thank Georgiana|Thank Georgiana]]

"Mr. Merton," you begin. "I don't need to tell you that, for a woman of my situation, very few options are available. I do not condone my father's... financial imprudence. But to tell the truth would most certainly have me thrown out of decent company. My father has left me at your mercy. What, then, would you have me do?" Mr. Merton is silent. It seems your words have had an effect. [[Appeal to his sense of history|Appeal to Rebecca]] (if: (history:) contains "Tell him the truth")[ [[Appeal to Mr. Radcliffe|Appeal to Mr. Radcliffe]]] (if: (history:) contains "Flirt with Georgiana")[ [[Appeal to Georgiana|Appeal to Georgiana]]]

You turn to the younger Merton, Frederick. "Frederick," you begin. "Do you think I've taken advantage of you? We've spent a pleasant evening together." Frederick looks apologetic. "I'm sorry," he says, softly. "I do like you. And my sister likes you. But it's my father who you need to convince." [[I'm no fortune hunter.|I do deny it]] [[How is this my fault?|Insolent]]

"Your own ancestor, Rebecca, created a sanctuary in Gracehaven for misfits everywhere - for 'inconvenient relatives' of every stripe." You continue, addressing Mr. Merton. "In her spirit, could you find it in your heart to allow me to stay?" With this, Merton finally relents. "All right," he says. "I am not made of stone. You may stay, at least until we find you properly situated." (if: (history:) contains "Flirt with Georgiana")[ [[Thank you!|Thank Georgiana]]] [[Happily Ever After|Drunkenly Ever After]]

"Imprudent?" You raise your eyebrow in Mr. Radcliffe's direction. "Don't push your luck," Mr. Radcliffe whispers in your ear. "You may have won my heart... but you could still get turned from the house." With this, Merton finally relents. "Very well," he says. "If you have won Mr. Radcliffe's heart, I suppose you're not my problem anymore." [[Hooray!|Gratitude]] [[Wait - I won your heart?|Have I won your heart]] [[Then I'll just say - thank you! |Gratitude]]

"Thank you, Mr. Merton!" you say, breathlessly. "And... Mr. Radcliffe." "Please, Prudence," he says, smiling at you. "Call me James." You both blush. [[All right, then... James.|Happily Ever After]] [[Have I won your heart?|Have I won your heart]] [[Sincerity is great, but how will we live?|Happily Ever After]]

"But how shall we live?" You venture, quite prudently. "We can live on my pension. I can afford a reasonable rent at the Gracehaven Vicarage," Says James. "How charming!" You cry. And so, you and James live out the rest of your lives on his small pension in a country vicarage. You were never terribly rich... but at least your father never came back from the West Indies to trouble you for money.

"Have I won your heart?" you ask, teasingly. James pulls you close. "Your sincerity has won me over completely," he declares. "You have won me... if you will have me?" [[Of course I will!|Happily Ever After]] [[Sincerity is great, but how will we live?|Happily Ever After]]

"You have saved me," you say under your breath to Georgiana. "How can I ever repay you?" Georgiana smirks. "Don't worry," She says. "We'll think of something." [[Happily Ever After|Drunkenly Ever After]]

And so, with the help of Georgiana, you restore Gracehaven to its former glory days as a haven for misfits - making wine, reading books, and walking the gardens together. Strangely, no-one has heard the wind moaning in the hallways since that day.

You read on: "In my grief, I'm afraid I allowed you to run nearly wild, and you are not now acquainted with the ways of of the world. I regret that I was not able to give you more of an education in manners. Your mother, bless her, would have done better in that regard. Your lack of fortune will make your way hard. But while you have no fortune to speak of, you have my family name to recommend you. Guard your reputation well, for it is all you have left." [[Finish the Letter|Skip to the End]]

"The Protestant Reformation was a 16th-century religious, political, intellectual and cultural movement in Europe," replies Frederick. "They believed that the Catholic church was lax, indulgent, and too powerful, and sought to reform it." "If only we all had a tiny, magical item in our pocket, so we could look these things up ourselves," adds Georgiana. [[Let's get back to Rebecca and Harmon.|Rebecca]] [[Did you say there was a burning part?|The Burning Part]]

[[Gracehaven|Approaching Gracehaven]] an Interactive Novel of Manners by Janet Harvey 07/04/2019 [[www.janetharvey.com|http://janetharvey.squarespace.com/]]

"Mr. Merton," you exclaim. "What do you take me for? While my circumstances are, indeed, reduced, I am a woman of some spirit. And I have my reputation to think of." "Of course," says Mr. Merton. "Forgive me, my dear. I should have known that a man like your father would not raise a daughter of low character." [[ Yes, he is quite admirable. |Shine Him On]] [[Whatever, old man. Just let me in.|Evil Eye]]

Father always did enjoy his game of cards a little too much. And as much as he's tried to shield you from his financial circumstances, the unpaid bills have become harder and harder to ignore. [[Continue|It's a long ride]]

It's been many years since your mother passed away, but father never really got over it. Even when he was home from his business in London - which was not often - he was emotionally absent. [[Continue|It's a long ride]]

Your childhood was happy, but with your father mostly absent on business, you grew up in the care of a housemaid and a rotating selection of cousins. Your education consisted mostly of climbing trees and reading adventure stories. [[Continue|It's a long ride]]

"But.." you can see the gears turning in his head. "How does he expect you to live now? He hasn't sent you here to find a husband, has he?" [[Absolutely not!|Absolutely not]] [[Well, I wouldn't say no.|Fortune Hunter]] [[I can see this is going to be fun.|Evil Eye]]

"Father sent me here to reap the benefit of good society," you reply, archly. "He assures me that you can provide that for me." Mr. Merton raises an eyebrow. "You are penniless and friendless, my dear," he replies tartly. "Maintaining a humble aspect will do much to improve your prospects in 'good society'." [[I'm sorry. We got off on the wrong foot. |Happy Aaron]] [[Whatever, old man. Just let me in.|Evil Eye]]

"I don't suppose you spent any time in circles with a certain Mr. Henley?" she asks, shyly. "He's an officer in the army." [[No, I don't know Mr Henley. Is he a friend?|News of Henley]] [[Oh sure! Good old Henley.|Hoisted on Petard]]

Georgiana leans in conspiratorially toward you. "What are your thoughts on the present company, Prudence? I can acquaint you with them, if you like. I have known many of them since childhood. Do any particularly strike your fancy?" [[That seems a bit forward.|A Bit Forward]] [[Who has the most money?|Ask About Frederick]] [[Ask About Mr. Radcliffe|Ask About Radcliffe]]

"What's your take on Mr. Radcliffe?" you ask. "Ah, the mysterious Mr. Radcliffe!" says Georgiana. "He's not my type, but I hear he has quite a large fortune." [[A fortune?|Press her about fortune]] [[What is he like?|Mysterious Mr R]] [[He's definitely MY type.|Definitely my type]]

"Forgive me, Georgiana, but on such short acquaintance, I'm hesitant to indulge such a confidence," you say. Though your tone is pleasant enough, Georgiana seems offended. However, she quickly recovers her smile. "Of course," she says, smiling. And she abruptly stops speaking to you entirely. [[Continue the meal in silence.|Eat in silence]] [[Try to return to gossip.|Ask about gossip]] [[Beg her forgiveness.|Forgive me]]

"Of the gentlemen in our present company," you say, quietly surveying the room, "Who among them would you say has the largest estate?" Georgiana can barely supress a laugh. "My goodness, you do get right to the point," she says, but she does not seem shocked by the question. "Probably Eliza's brother, Frederick. He stands to inherit Gracehaven when his father dies. But he is engaged." (if: (history:) contains "Husband hunting")[[[I thought you said he was gay?|Frederick Gay]]] (else:) [[[Engaged?|Georgiana 2]]] [[What about your brother? Is he engaged?|Henley]]

"Engaged?" You ask, surprised. "Yes," Georgiana replies. She smiles tightly. "Frederick Merton and I are engaged to be married this spring." Her manner tells you there is more to this story. Do you know her well enough to press further? [[Do you love him?|Do You Love Him]] [[Do you need money that badly?|Georgiana 3]] (if: (history:) contains "Flirt with Georgiana")[[[I thought you did not... incline in that direction?|Georgiana Gay]]] (if: (history:) contains "Husband hunting")[[[I thought you said he was gay?|Frederick Gay]]] (if: (history:) contains "Mysterious Mr. R")[[[Why would he consult Mr. Radcliffe?|Radcliffe Consultation]]] (else:) [[[Say nothing.|Eat in silence]]]

"Is it quite a large fortune?" You ask, hoping not to be too forward. Georgiana shrugs. "I am not sure," she says. "Since my engagement, I haven't had a reason to inquire further." [[Engagement?|Georgiana 2]] [[What about your brother? Is he engaged?|Henley]]

"What his he like, our Mr. Radcliffe?" Georgiana shrugs. "He has a reputation as being quite proud and disagreeable, but I have not known him long. Although he has been a longtime companion of both my brother and Frederick. It's my understanding that Frederick approached him for advice before announcing our engagement." [[Engagement?|Georgiana 2]]

You think it's perhaps wise to say nothing in this instance. You smile and nod amiably. Georgiana leans in conspiratorially toward you. "What are your thoughts on the present company, Prudence? I can acquaint you with them, if you like. I have known many of them since childhood. Do any particularly strike your fancy?" [[Ask About Mr. Radcliffe|Ask About Radcliffe]] [[The one with the most money.|Ask About Frederick]] [[That seems a bit forward.|A Bit Forward]]

You continue the meal in silence. "Prudence, it seems you have silenced my sister," says Mr. Henley. "Pray, how did you accomplish it? You must tell us, because I've never seen it happen." [[Ask about the Abbey|Change the subject]]

"Come now," you say, trying to jolly her out of it. "I did not mean to dampen your spirits. Let us return to speaking of the present company." Georgiana shakes her head. She seems to have made up her mind about you, and it's not good. "While I enjoy a convivial conversation about our company, I would not be thought a gossip," she says with a faint, forced smile. [[Continue.|Change the subject]]

"If I have given offense, it was not my intention to do so." you say to Georgiana. "Forgive me. I am not well versed in the ways of the world." Georgiana softens at this. "Of course, my dear. Your reserve speaks well of your ability to keep a confidence. But it is not the most... conducive quality to conviviality." [[I prefer to be quiet.|Suit Yourself]] [[I'm not naturally reserved.|Convivial]] [[I like to go with the flow.|Amiable]]

"Engaged? I thought you said he was gay?" You ask, surprised. "He is," Georgiana replies. She dabs her lips delicately with a napkin. "But his father will disinherit him if he does not marry. So he asked me." [[Do you love him? |Do You Love Him]] [[Do you need money that badly?|Georgiana 3]] (if: (history:) contains "Flirting with Georgiana")[[[I thought you said you were gay?|Georgiana Gay]]]

"Engaged?" You ask, surprised. "But I thought you said that you did not... incline in that direction." Georgiana shrugs and smiles, but the smile does not quite reach her eyes. "There are far less pleasant ways to keep oneself in the world," she says. [[Do you need money that badly?|Georgiana 3]] [[Do you love him?|Do You Love Him]]

"I am not naturally given to reserve," you say, smiling. "But sometimes the occasion requires listening more than speaking." Georgiana smiles in return. "What a relief," she says. "There is nothing wrong with being quiet when the occasion requires it. But I cannot abide a person of excessive reserve. Above all, I prize spirit and openness of manner." [[Continue|Mysterious Mr R]]

"I can be convivial or quiet, depending on the company," you say, smiling. Georgiana smiles in return. "What a relief," she says. "There is nothing wrong with being quiet when the occasion requires it. But I cannot abide a person of excessive reserve. Above all, I prize spirit and openness of manner." [[Continue|Mysterious Mr R]]

"Do you love him?" you ask. Georgiana hesitates. "Of course!" She finally answers. "We grew up together. I am excessively fond of Frederick." [[So. "Like a Brother," is it?|Like a Brother]] [[Do you need money that badly?|Georgiana 3]] [[Say nothing.|Eat in silence]]

"What about your brother? Mr. Henley?" You inquire. "Is he presently engaged?" In an instant, all the conviviality disappears from Georgiana's face. "My dear," she says, "if you must find a fortune, I beg you to seek a different path to get it. Henley is besotted with Frederick. I'm surprised he even allowed Frederick and I to publicly announce our engagement." [[Engagement?|Georgiana 2]]

"Do you need money that badly?" you ask, shocked. "Please," she begs, "I cannot talk about this now. Come and find me later, when we can speak more privately." [[Continue.|Eat in silence]]

"If you are speaking honestly of your feelings," you venture, "The love you describe does not generally leads to happy marriage." "Please," she begs, "I cannot talk about this now. Come and find me later, when we can speak more privately." [[Continue.|Eat in silence]]

"Yes," you say, catching Georgiana's eye. "Very romantic." Georgiana catches some meaning in your glance. The arch of her eyebrow says she's intrigued. "Now tell us about the burning part!" Eliza cries, gleefully. [[Continue the story.|The Burning Part]]

"Yes," you say, catching Mr. Radcliffe's eye. "Very romantic." Disconcerted, Mr. Radcliffe resolutely turns his gaze away, a stony expression on his face. "Now tell us about the burning part!" Eliza cries, gleefully. [[Continue the story|The Burning Part]]

"Wait!" Georgiana catches up with you in the halls. "May I walk with you? After that story, I'm quite unsettled! The wind in these halls is eerie enough without ghost stories!" [[Walk Georgiana to her room|Walk Georgiana to her Room]] [[Walk with Georgiana as far as your room|Walk with Georgiana 2]] [[Walk to your room alone|Walk halls alone]]

You and Georgiana link arms as you walk through the drafty halls. "Thank you for walking with me," says Georgiana. "I've been here for two weeks now, and I can't get used to the wind at night. It's got this... keening sound. And these stone hallways never get warm - not even in mindsummer!" (if: (history:) contains "Walk with Georgiana 2")[[[Continue.|Go to your room 1]]] (else:) [[[Continue.|At Georgianas Door]]]

"If you don't mind, I'd rather go to my room alone," you say. "It's been a very long day, and I have... a lot to think about." "Of course," says Georgiana. "Good night." [[Continue|Go back to your room]]

You reach out to take a taper and retire to your room, when Georgiana lays a hand on yours. "Wait!" She cries. "Will you walk with me to my room? After that story, I'm quite unsettled! The wind in these halls is eerie enough without ghost stories." [[Walk Georgiana to her room|Walk Georgiana to her Room]] [[Walk with Georgiana as far as your room|Walk with Georgiana 2]] [[Walk to your room alone|Walk halls alone]]

"I'd like that very much," you reply gratefully. "Capital!" says Mr. Henley. "We leave after breakfast." Saying your goodnights, you make ready to retire for the evening. [[Continue|Walk with Georgiana]]

"The abbey that's haunted by a ghost, you mean?" You laugh. "Georgiana, are you going?" "After that story? No thank you." Georgiana shivers. "Besides, I didn't bring proper shoes." Henley shrugs. "Very well then," he says. Saying your goodnights, you make ready to retire for the evening. [[Continue|Walk with Georgiana]]

"Will Mr. Radcliffe be accompanying you?" You ask, trying to sound as unconcerned as possible. Henley laughs. "Well, well," she says. "I guess we now know who our dear Prudence favors." James Radcliffe blushes furiously. "Her?" he blurts out. "That would be a lapse of judgment, surely." As your own cheek flushes hot, you try to think of what to say. [[Deny any attraction to James.|Deny James]] [[Let him know he has hurt you.|Make excuses]] [[Leave without saying anything.|Walk with Georgiana]]

"Mr. Radcliffe need not worry about my lapses in judgment," you reply archly. "I've judged him to be so haughty and ill mannered, I wouldn't take him if he were the last man on earth." With those words, you appear to have stunned the entire party into silence. (if: (history:) contains "Sit by James")[ [[Continue|I Only Meant]]] (else:) [[[Excuse yourself|The halls]]]

"I'm sorry that you consider a romantic attachment to me a lapse of judgment," you retort, bitterly. "I meant," replies Mr. Radcliffe, softly, "that it would be a lapse of judgement on your part. For in our brief acquaintance, I can see that a young woman of your taste and intelligence deserves far better than I." The entire room watches this exchange in stunned silence. The response is so unexpected, and does so little to ease the hotness of your blush, that you are unsure how to respond. In fact, it may have made things worse. "I..." you stammer. [[Try to talk|Try to talk]] [[Run away|The halls]] [[Excuse yourself|Mortified]]

Finally, you arrive at your own room, alone. It appears that Sally set a fire in your grate. While it might have been warm and cheering a few hours ago, it is all but embers now. You poke at the dying fire, reflecting on the day's events. You can't stop thinking about: (if: (history:) contains "You need a bath")[[[Georgiana.|Stinky Pete]]] (else:) [[[Georgiana|Player Likes Georgiana]]] [[Mr. Radcliffe|Player Likes James]] [[The story of Brother Harmon and Rebecca|Player Matchmaking]] (if: (history:) contains "The Out Crowd")[[[Punting at Cambridge|Your Gaffe]]]

"Come inside, where we can talk." Georgiana takes your hand and leads you into her room, where a warm fire is blazing in the grate. "Would you like a small glass of sherry?" She asks. "I like to have a little before I go to sleep." [[Don't mind if I do.|Sherry]] (if: (history:) contains "Georgiana 2")[[[I'd rather talk.|Talk About Engagement]]] (else:) [[[I'd rather talk.|In Case You Missed It]]]

How could a man as affectionate and loving as your father have allowed this to happen? It beggars belief. You wonder what to do with the letter. [[Throw the Letter Out the Window|Throw the Letter Out]] [[Fold the Letter and Put it In Your Reticule|Keep the Letter]]

First the death of your mother, now this. You cannot believe that your loving father would do such a thing to you. But there it is, in black and white. You wonder what to do with the letter. [[Throw the Letter Out the Window|Throw the Letter Out]] [[Fold the Letter and Put it In Your Reticule|Keep the Letter]]

Your father has always been an inconsiderate spendthrift, but you did not suspect his self-absorption was so complete that he would sacrifice you in its pursuit. Yet there it is, the evidence, in black and white. What to do with it? [[Throw the Letter Out the Window|Throw the Letter Out]] [[Fold the Letter and Put it In Your Reticule|Keep the Letter]]

"But why," you venture, "Would Mr. Radcliffe be consulted on so personal a matter?" Georgiana shrugs. "I haven't the slightest idea," is all she will say on the subject. [[Continue.|Eat in silence]]

You lean in for a kiss, close enough to brush your cheek against Georgiana's ringlets. She stops you. "Not here," she whispers. She takes your hand. (if: (history:) contains "Take a Bath")[[[Continue|Go inside Georgiana's room]]] (else:) [[[Continue|You need a bath]]]

The letter stirs a roiling sea of emotions in you. But primarily, you feel: [[Astonished|Astonished]] [[Heartbroken|Heartbroken]] [[Angry|Angry]]

The two of you walk to the door of Georgiana's room. "This is me!" says Georgiana. "Well... goodnight." She looks at you expectantly. [[Say Goodnight|Go back to your room]] [[Ask to come inside|Go inside Georgiana's room]] (if: (history:) contains "Flirt with Georgiana")[[[Lean in for a kiss|Door kiss]]]

"I can walk with you as far as my door," you say. "Thank you," says Georgiana, and links arms with you. [[Continue.|Walk Georgiana to her Room]]

You reach the door of your room. "Are you sure you don't want to walk the rest of the way with me?" As if to underscore her point, the wind blows through a chink in the window near your room, making a high keening sound. [[Walk Georgiana to her room|At Georgianas Door]] [[Go into your room alone|Walk halls alone]]

"The miserable reprobate has lost everything and dropped me on your doorstep," you announce, without preamble. Mr. Merton blinks in disbelief. "But... how can this be? How did he lose his money?" [[He gambled it all away.|He Gambled it Away]] [[He made some... unfortunate investments.|Father Was Not Good With Money]]

"I... Mr. Radcliffe... You... deserve! " The full weight of the day seems to crush you at once. Tears of frustration spring into your eyes. Mortified, you take a taper and excuse yourself. [[Continue|The halls]]

You don't even try to speak. Mortified, you take a taper and excuse yourself. [[Continue|The halls]]

"A glass of sherry sounds lovely," you say. Georgiana pours a dram into two small cut crystal glasses. The two of you settle by the fire. For the first time since you arrived, you feel warmed by the fire and the sherry. [[Continue|Cut Crystal]]

"And what would you tell her tonight?" you ask, softly. Georgiana meets your gaze, steadily. "That I met someone who made my heart beat faster." [[Confess your feelings for Georgiana.|My feelings for you]] [[Kiss her.|Kiss her]] (if: (history:) contains "Sit by James")[[[Would that be your fiance?|What about your fiance]]] (else:) [[[Whoa. That's not what I expected.|Back up a sec]]] [[Excuse yourself and say goodnight.|Excuse yourself]]

"I always have a little glass of sherry before bed," Georgiana confesses. "My mother gave me these glasses when I got engaged, and... well. It makes me feel closer to her, somehow." "Sometimes I talk to her when I'm sitting by the fire at night. Tell her about my day." [[What would you tell her about today?|I met somebody]] [[I lost my mother, too.|Sympathy G]] (if: (history:) contains "Georgiana 2")[[[Let's talk.|Talk About Engagement]]] (else:) [[[Engaged?|Engaged?]]]

"I lost my mother, too," you say, sympathetically. Georgiana's worldly manner drops away and, for an instant, you can see the vulnerable little girl hiding behind her mocking smile. "I miss her so much," says Georgiana. "Father was so adamant that I become accomplished on the pianoforte and find a good husband. But mama used to say that her greatest wish was that I'd find someone who made my heart beat faster." [[And have you?|I met somebody]] (if: (history:) contains "Georgiana 2")[[[What about your fiance?|What about your fiance]]] (else:) [[[You're engaged?|Engaged?]]]

"This engagement of yours," you begin, delicately. "Are you sure that it is the right thing to do?" Georgiana laughs, lightly. "I hold Frederick in the highest esteem. He and I are the most amiable of friends. He has a fine income, and travels in the first circles. I assure you, my dear Prudence, that I could do far worse than marry Frederick." [[So you're marrying for money?|Marry for money]] [[But what about love?|What about love]] (if: (history:) contains "Cut Crystal")[[[You could do much better, too.|You could do better]]] (else:)[[[But you don't sound... happy.|You don't sound happy]]]

"Georgiana," you say. "I... I must confess..." Before you can finish your sentence, Georgiana has covered your lips with hers. You are dizzy with relief. All you are conscious of is her ringlets and the heady smell of the sherry. [[Keep kissing her|Keep kissing her]] [[Pull away gently.|Pull away gently]]

"No thank you," you say. "I'd rather talk." "Suit yourself," says Georgiana. She pours herself a dram into a small cut crystal glass. "I always have a little glass of sherry before bed," she confesses. "My mother gave me these glasses when I got engaged, and... well. It makes me feel closer to her, somehow." [[[Engaged?|Engaged?]]]

"Engaged?" you ask, surprised. "Yes," Georgiana replies, with a faint smile. "Frederick Merton and I are engaged to be married this spring." (if: (history:) contains "Sit by James")[ [[Congratulations!|Congratulations]]] (else:) [[[Talk about the Engagement|Talk About Engagement]]]

"But you don't sound... happy," you say. Georgiana sighs. For a moment, her worldly manner drops away, and you can see the vulnerable little girl that hides behind her mocking smile. "Happiness?" she gives a little hollow laugh. "It's funny. Papa was adamant that I make an appropriate match. But mama used to say that her greatest wish was that I'd find someone who made my heart beat faster." [[And have you?|I met somebody]] [[What about love?|What about love]] [[Just saying.. you could do better.|You could do better]]

"But what about true happiness?" You cry. "What about love?" "What about it?" Georgiana asks, raising an eyebrow. A saucy smile plays across her lips. It's a provocation more than a direct question. [[Wait a minute.. I didn't mean me.|Back up a sec]] [[Do you love him? |Do you love him]] [[Kiss her.|Kiss her]] [[Excuse yourself and say goodnight.|Excuse yourself]]

"You could do better," you say. "Could I?" says Georgiana, raising an eyebrow. It's a provocation. Suddenly the room feels very warm. [[Confess your feelings for Georgiana.|My feelings for you]] [[Whoa. That's not what I expected.|Back up a sec]] (if: (history:) contains "Marry for money")[ [[Kiss her.|Kiss her]]] (else:) [[[So you're marrying for money?|Marry for money]]]

Suddenly, perhaps clumsily, you lean forward. Your lips meet Georgiana's in an awkward kiss. Just as you're sure you've made a terrible mistake, you realize: she's kissing you back. A deep, experienced, dizzying kiss that makes you forget where you are. [[Keep kissing her|Keep kissing her]] [[Pull away gently|Pull away gently]]

You stand up, embracing Georgiana warmly. "Thank you, so much, for this evening. But it's time I went to bed. It's been a long night." "Of course," Says Georgiana, blushing. "Forgive me, I fear I may have revealed too much." "No apologies necessary," you assure her."I am sure... [[We will become very good friends.|Georgiana Friends]] [[You will be very happy with whoever you choose.|All Best Wishes]] [[We will continue this another time.|Georgiana Romance]]

"I.. just think..." you stutter, avoiding her gaze. "That love is worth waiting for. That story... Rebecca and Brother Harmon... it made me think... that such things are possible." Georgiana sighs, uncharacteristically serious. "That story ended in fire," she says, staring into the blaze and sipping her sherry. [[Confess your feelings for Georgiana.|My feelings for you]] (if: (history:) contains "Marry for money")[ [[Kiss her.|Kiss her]]] (else:) [[[So you're marrying for money?|Marry for money]]] [[Excuse yourself and say goodnight.|Excuse yourself]]

Georgiana embraces you. "I am sure I would be very glad to have you as a friend," She whispers in your ear. [[Continue|Leave]]

"I wish you all happiness with whoever you choose," you say, warmly. Georgiana eyes you quizzically. "Really?" She says, somewhat bemused that, after all that, you would leave her with such formal niceties. "Very well. If you say so." [[Continue|Leave]]

"We'll continue this conversation another time," you whisper. Georgiana kisses you as you leave the room. You hate to take yourself away from the warmth of Georgiana's embrace. The hallway is cold and inhospitable by comparison, as you make your way back to your room. [[Continue|Go back to your room]]

"Do you love him?" you ask, directly. Georgiana stares into the fire. "No," she says. "No, I don't." [[Confess your feelings for Georgiana.|My feelings for you]] [[Excuse yourself and say goodnight.|Excuse yourself]] [[Just saying.. you could do better.|You could do better]]

Slowly, you disentangle yourself from the breathless embrace. "Goodness," is all you can manage to say. "This was not what I expected tonight," says Georgiana, arranging some misplaced curls. [[Neither did I.|Neither did I]] [[What do we do now?|What do we do now?]] [[We'll continue this another time.|Georgiana Romance]]

Suddenly her lips are on your cheek, your throat, your shoulder. It's like nothing you've ever experienced before. Everything is a whirl of ringlets, and sherry. [[Continue|Pull away gently]]

"Neither did I," you confess. Georgiana smiles warmly. "We will take it as it comes," she assures you. [[Continue|Georgiana Romance]]

"What do we do now?" you ask. You feel Georgiana chill a bit at the suggestion that you do anything at all. "I hope you haven't mistaken my affection," she says, apprehensively. "While I do have warm feelings towards you, we only just met. And I am engaged to Frederick. Do we have an understanding?" [[We do.|I understand]] [[No, I don't understand.|Crazy bitch]] [[Excuse yourself and say goodnight.|Excuse yourself]]

"I understand," you assure her. "We'll take it as it comes." [[Continue|Georgiana Romance]]

"We just shared a kiss," you say, incredulously. "And you still intend to marry Frederick?" Georgiana stands up. "You are young, and perhaps naive in the ways of the world. But I don't intend to risk my entire future on one kiss. Whether or not I am in love with Frederick is beside the point. We have been well acquainted for years. The nature of Frederick's character is well-known to me. Yours, quite simply, is not." It takes you a moment to realize that she is showing you the door. [[I understand.|I understand]] [[We will continue this another time.|Georgiana Romance]] [[Leave.|Leave]]

You hate to take yourself away from the warmth of Georgiana's embrace. The hallway is cold and inhospitable by comparison, as you make your way back to your room. [[Continue|Go back to your room]]

"Are you that badly in need of money," you ask, "that you must marry Frederick?" Georgiana shakes her head a bit sadly. "It is precisely the opposite," she says. "Both our families are of middling fortune. Marrying them together has been our parents' object since we were small children. Henley will not marry Eliza... so I must marry Frederick." [[You're sacrificing yourself... for Eliza?|Family ties]] [[Why did he consult Mr. Radcliffe?|Why consult Radcliffe]] [[Why won't he marry Eliza?|Henley and Eliza]]

"But why would he consult Mr. Radcliffe on your engagement?" Georgiana rolls her eyes. "Lord knows. Perhaps they are getting up to more than we know at Oxford, or Cambridge, or whatever Latin-speaking institution threw them together. "What think you of Mr. Radcliffe?" she asks you, conspiratorially. "Have you spoken to him extensively? I hear he is very arrogant and disagreeable." [[His reputation is unearned.|I like him]] [[I find him provoking.|I dislike him.]] [[I have no opinion one way or another.|No opinion]]

"Why won't Henley marry Eliza?" You cry. "Eliza loves him." "Indeed, "laughs Georgiana. "She follows him around like a little puppy." An uncharacteristic sadness comes over her. "But he loves Frederick. I don't think he will ever marry. Men can do that. For women... it is far different." [[But you don't sound... happy.|You don't sound happy]] [[You're sacrificing yourself... for Eliza?|Family ties]] [[It doesn't have to be.|Back up a sec]]

"Surely, Eliza would not want you to sacrifice your happiness for hers," you say. Georgiana sighs. "It's better this way," she says, as if answering a question she was asking herself. But she doesn't sound convinced. [[Just saying - you could do better.|You could do better]] [[Do you love him?|Do you love him]] [[Why did Henley consult Mr. Radcliffe?|Why consult Radcliffe]]

"I believe his reputation to be unearned," you assert. "In our interactions, he has been quite sincere, if a bit gruff." (if: (history:) contains "Try to talk")[ [[Continue|Saw you looking]]] (else:) [[[Continue|Excuse yourself]]]

"I find him quite provoking," you assert, heatedly. "He has a way of expressing himself that is most exasperating." (if: (history:) contains "Try to talk")[ [[Continue|Saw you looking]]] (else:) [[[Continue|Excuse yourself]]]

"I have not spoken to Mr. Radcliffe enough to form an opinion one way or another," you say. Georgiana looks a bit disappointed, but shrugs. "Fair enough," she says. "I'll depend upon you to report back when you have had opportunity to form an opinion!" (if: (history:) contains "Try to talk")[ [[Continue|Saw you looking]]] (else:) [[[Continue|Excuse yourself]]]

You are intrigued by the worldly, yet kind, Georgiana. Perhaps you'll spend more time together tomorrow. You think that perhaps, Gracehaven has something to interest you, after all. THE END

You cannot account for it, but whenever your thoughts return to Mr. Radcliffe, your face flushes red. He did seem sincere enough, even if his manner of expressing himself often lacked grace. Perhaps you can become better acquainted tomorrow. You think that perhaps, Gracehaven has something to interest you, after all. THE END

The history of the Abbey haunts you, even as you gaze out across the dark moors to see its ruined tower dimly outlined in the distance. Perhaps, as you get to know the others better, you'll become a part of this place as well. Hopefully a part that doesn't end in fire. THE END

"And you already know Henley!" Eliza cries, introducing you to Georgiana's brother. "Prudence, where did you say you met before?" Cringing, you nod at Henley, who just looks confused. "Of course," you say. "I believe we were introduced at: [[The Balliol Ball.|The Balliol Ball]] [[A punting party at Cambridge.|Punting Party]] [[Bath.|Bath]]

Henley lights up at the mention of the Balliol Ball. He smiles and nods. "Ah yes," he says. "Of course. Lovely to meet you again." He has no idea who you are. But you're safe, for now. [[Sit down to dinner.|Choose a Seat]]

"A punting party at Cambridge?" Henley's face darkens. "You must be mistaken. I've never set foot on the Cambridge campus. I'm an Oxford man, myself." Damn, you think. You're always getting those two mixed up. "My mistake," you say. You blush hotly, as it feels as though you are under more intense scrutiny. [[Sit down to dinner.|Choose a Seat]]

At the mention of Bath, Henley blanches as white as a sheet. "Lovely to see you again," he murmurs, in a tone that says it is anything but. What on earth did Henley get up to in Bath? you wonder. Whatever it was, it couldn't have been good. [[Sit down to dinner.|Choose a Seat]]

"What about your fiance?" you ask teasingly. Georgiana smiles. "I hold Frederick in the highest esteem. He and I are the most amiable of friends. He has a fine income, and travels in the first circles. I do love him like a brother." [[So you're marrying for money?|Marry for money]] [[But what about love?|What about love]] [[You could do much better.|You could do better]]

"I must say, he cuts quite a striking figure," you observe. Georgiana laughs, evidently delighted with your observation. "At a distance, my dear," she agrees. "But I hear that he gets more disagreeable the closer you approach." "He has been a longtime companion of both my brother and Frederick," she continues. "It's my understanding that Frederick approached him for advice before announcing our engagement." [[Engagement?|Georgiana 2]]

Georgiana looks curiously at you. "You did seem a bit tongue tied when he spoke to you," she teases. Blushing furiously, you: [[[Deny your feelings for James|Deny James 2]]] [[[Admit your feelings for James|Admit James 2]]] [[[Excuse yourself|Excuse yourself]]]

"I barely know the man," you say, huffily. [[Continue|Excuse yourself]]

"I must declare, I find his presence quite disconcerting," you admit. [[Continue|Excuse yourself]]

The bath water is hot and steamy, and very welcome after your long day on the road. You sink into it gratefully. "If one must contemplate one's reduced circumstances," you think, "A hot bath is the best place in which to do it." [[Go to Room|Go to Room]]

Georgiana smiles tightly at you and wrinkles up her nose. "It's getting a bit late, don't you think?" she says. "And you've been on the road all day. Why don't you refresh yourself and we can talk in the morning. Good night!" She shuts the door, leaving you in the hall. Was it something I said? you think. Then you catch a whiff of your own armpits. Whew! [[Go back to your room|Go back to your room]]

You're mortified by the way Georgiana said goodbye to you. Where they all thinking it the entire time? you wonder. It's an agonizing thought. Perhaps, after a good night's sleep and a bath, tomorrow will be a brighter day. You wonder if you'll ever truly fit in here at Gracehaven. THE END

As if reading your thoughts, Henley extends an invitation. "Prudence, we were just discussing a walk tomorrow to visit the Abbey. If the weather is fine, you must come with us." "Oh, you must!" cries Eliza. [[I'd like that very much.|Invite to the Abbey]] [[The Abbey with the ghost, you mean?|Invite Haunted Abbey]] [[Is James going?|Is James going?]]

As Henley sits down beside you, you see that he and Frederick are exchanging meaningful glances. When you look in their direction, they look away. "Prudence, we are having an outing tomorrow!" cries Eliza. "We're walking to the Abbey. Do come with us." "Prudence can't go," says Henley. "She's going punting in Cambridge." Frederick can't repress a snicker. Your face flushes hot. [[I'd like that very much.|Invite to the Abbey Eliza]] [[The Abbey with the ghost? No thanks.|Invite Haunted Abbey]] [[Is James going?|Is James going?]]

"I'd like that very much," you reply gratefully. "Splendid!" cries Eliza. "We leave after breakfast." Saying your goodnights, you make ready to retire for the evening. [[Continue|Walk with Georgiana]]

You ruminate on your gaffe at dinner. Why did I lie? you wonder. Have a ruined my good reputation with Henley forever? You resolve to make amends. Perhaps, after a good night's sleep and a bath, you can try again tomorrow. Exhausted, you lay your head on the pillow, wondering if you'll ever truly fit in here at Gracehaven. THE END

"I meant," replies Mr. Radcliffe, softly, "that it would be a lapse of judgement on your part. For in our brief acquaintance, I can see that a young woman of your taste and intelligence deserves far better than I." The response is so unexpected, and does so little to ease the hotness of your blush, that you are unsure how to respond. In fact, it may have made things worse. "I..." you stammer. [[Try to talk|Try to talk]] [[Run away|The halls]] [[Excuse yourself|Mortified]]

"Congratulations!" You say heartily. Georgiana smiles faintly. "Thank you," she says. But she doesn't seem to take your well-wishes with much spirit. You wonder if you should press her further on the subject. [[You don't sound happy.|You don't sound happy]] [[You sound unsure about this.|Talk About Engagement]] [[Excuse yourself and say goodnight.|Excuse yourself]]