Heartstrings
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. . . The drawing room was empty, as she had expected - it was only six forty five - but on the table, in an open case, was Donald's violin, together with a pile of music. Olive couldn't resist touching the exquisite instrument, feeling the smoothness of the rich wood, and admiring its curvaceous shape. Such a wonderful example of workmanship, she thought, closing her eyes, trying to imagine how it would feel to be able to play such an instrument and produce lovely music. 'Take it out and have a proper look.' Donald had quietly come into the room and unbeknown to Olive had been watching her for several moments. She gave a start. 'Oh no. No, really. There's no need. I was merely admiring it and marvelling at the beautiful sound that such a small instrument can make.' 'Ah, but this is a very special instrument, a genuine Stradavari. It belonged to my father, and my grandfather before him.' 'Then you must treasure it. You obviously care for it - no one would know that it is so old.' Olive watched as Donald snapped close the case, and gathered up his music. For once he had really tried with his appearance. His suit appeared to be newly pressed, and his black patent evening shoes were polished and shone like coal. His long dark hair was tidily tied in the nape of his neck, and he was freshly shaven. Olive couldn't even find fault with his necktie, which was tied in a perfect bow. He caught her look of approval and a boyish smile covered his face. 'I can see that you are impressed. One has to make an effort for the Mayor. It wouldn't do to let the side down, would it? But look at you! Turn around.' Giggling, Olive spun around, enjoying the sensation of the blue velvet swirling round her ankles.
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About the Book
When Olive Collins is hastily despatched by her schoolmaster father to be a companion to Fiona Wainwright, a wealthy mill-owners daughter from Haliax, her potential and gift with figures is soon recognised, and on completing her education she is offered the position of bookkeeper, working alongside Fiona's brother, Robert. Realising she loves Robert, Olive is devastated at his plans to be married, and she decides to leave Yorkshire and take up the post of governess to three children from the musical Best family in Worcester. From the start Olive is attracted to the talented and charismatic musician Donald Best, and vulnerable and inexperienced she soon finds herself in the throes of an illicit, emotional affair. Best's wife, the temperamental and insecure prima donna Josephine Di Marco, is often away from home, and Olive's love for her employer deepens as with the passing years, and long periods of separation, his marriage crumbles. A family crisis brings Josephine back to England and once more into Donald's life, forcing Olive to make the heart breaking decision to leave him and return to Yorkshire. Olive resumes her friendship with Fiona and her family, but never gets over her feelings for Donald Best. His eldest child, Nigel, contacts her with an emotional letter from his father which changes Olive's outlook on life, and although she never sees Donald again, her love for him endures the passing of time. When on his death she receives the ultimate proof of his feelings for her, she finally knows true contentment.
About the Author
Judith Blaydes was born and brought up in the West Riding of Yorkshire and lived in the Calder Valley around Halifax until the late 1960s. Married with two grown up sons, she has lived and worked in various parts of the country, Norfolk, North Wales, Powys, Lincolnshire and rural North Yorkshire. Judith worked for many years in the Library service and latterly in school administration. Now living in the Lake District, 'Heartstrings' is her second novel. Set in Halifax and Worcester it spans the period 1852-1898 and is a moving story with a musical theme.