Dakota Dreams (Historical Romance) by Constance O'Banyon

willing to wager?"
    Tate poked Alec in the ribs. "Make it high, we are about to get the money back that John won from us." He cast a sly glance toward Dakota, who was following the old hunter up the stairs to the second floor. "No one could make that uncivilized person into a gentleman."
    John reached into his breast pocket, withdrew a leather bag, and tossed it on the table. "Here's two hundred pounds, which is every cent I have in the world. I'll wager it all to prove that I will present Lord Dakota Remington to you by the time we reach England, polished and primed for his role as heir apparent to the Remington fortunes."
    "You wouldn't have that money if you hadn't won it from us," Alec Henley stated. "But yes, done."
    "Done" his brother parroted.
    With the wager still ringing in his ears, John made his way up the stairs to present himself to his cousin and the old buffalo hunter. He knew the task he had set before himself would not be an easy one, but he had never been one to disregard a challenge! Still, the odds had rarely been so much in favor of his opponent.
    ***
    Not liking to be closed in, Dakota left open the bedroom door that led to the hallway. He moved restlessly around the room, examining the porcelain water pitcher, the soft material of the window covering, the mirror on the wall. He sat on the edge of the bed, sinking into its soft, feathery depth. "I have seen many wonders since starting out with you, Levi—but this place —this place you call New York, is beyond anything I could have imagined."
    "This is nothing compared to what you will see, Dakota. Wait until you get to England and observe wonders that will make you question your own eyes."
    "You always say this to me, Levi, but I find your knowledge of England severely limited."
    The hunter smiled. "Although I have traveled there twice at your grandfather's request, I have little knowledge of the English, especially the titled ones. You're the one who read all the books on England —you should be the one telling me what it's like. I wish it was in my power to make you feel less lost when we arrive, but your needs go beyond anything I can teach you."
    At that moment a voice spoke up from the doorway. "If you are Lord Dakota Remington and a hunter called Levi Gunther, perhaps I could be of assistance." John Donegal smiled jauntily.
    "That's who we are, but who are you?" Levi asked, looking the stranger over, noting his fashionable mode of dress and the fine way he had of speaking. He gathered this would be someone who had been sent by the Marquess.
    John gave an exaggerated bow. "Allow me to present myself. I am John Donegal, from the Scottish branch of the Remington Family." His eyes twinkled. "Actually, we are the poor side of the family —good bloodline, but no money."
    So far Dakota had not spoken, and John wasn't sure he understood English; therefore, he did not know how huge a task he had set himself. "I am Lord Dakota's cousin," he added.
    Dakota came to his feet, his eyes moving over the fancily dressed gentlemen who claimed to be his cousin. "How is it that you are my cousin?" he asked.
    "Well, I'll be damned!" John exclaimed, breathing a sigh of relief. At least he wouldn't have to teach Dakota English, though he would have to polish his accent. "Actually, my grandmother was your grandfather's sister, so you can see I am no threat to you as far as inheriting from my uncle."
    "I do not understand," Dakota said. "What do you mean by inherit, and why do you call me Lord Dakota?"
    "All will become clear to you in good time, cousin," John answered. "Right now, I want to take you to a good tailor so you can be fitted with the proper attire."
    Dakota was not certain if he liked this man who admitted to being his cousin. "I will not wear clothing such as yours," Dakota stated obstinately, reminding John of the Marquess. "I do not want to look like you."
    John chuckled. "We will try to dress you more conventionally. I have instructions from your