The only surviving son of a poor American farmer, Leander Mayfield is shocked to learn that he is in fact the new Earl of Dearborne. Barely recovered from one of the many illnesses that have plagued him all his life, he sets sail for England and a new life.<br><br>Tired and bored with all the wealth and finery that constantly surrounds him, Julien Sutcliffe, the Earl of Blackstone, is constantly on the lookout for something to lift his ennui. Then he meets the young American Earl, whose naiveté he finds refreshing and new.<br><br>Drawn to each other, it actually begins to seem as though they might be able to enjoy a happy life in each other’s company, but something -- or someone -- is determined to separate them permanently.

The Desire for Dearborne

“I intend to pay a call soon,” Cordelia continued. “No one has ventured to do so thus far. I’m sure I would have heard if anyone had. There is a slight connection, you know. The late earl’s daughter, Constance, was such a help and comfort when I first entered Society. She made it much easier for Octavius’ family to accept me.”


Chapter 5