“Lord Colville.” Mr. Scott bowed low and held himself there as was his custom. She’d come to the conclusion that the length of the reverend’s bow portrayed the depth of his respect. He clearly put a great deal of value upon titles, social standing, and wealth.

Perhaps other people weren’t quite as blatant as Mr. Scott in their prejudices. No matter what she said or how she demanded his respect, he’d likely never be able to see her as anything other than a poor woman.

But she couldn’t let people like Mr. Scott hold her back from respecting herself. If she learned to respect and hold herself in higher esteem, then perhaps one day others would too. Even if they didn’t, she had to start somewhere.

Mrs. Moresby was watching Mr. Scott’s bowed posture with ever-widening eyes. When she glanced at Mercy, her gaze was filled with both question and humor, so much so that Mercy had to look away to keep from smiling.

“I am deeply grateful you’ve chosen to grace us with the pleasure of your company this evening.” Mr. Scott finally pulled himself up so that he was as rigid as the prayer book he kept tucked in his coat pocket.

“May I present Mrs. Moresby?” Joseph motioned to the older woman.

“Mrs. Moresby.” Mr. Scott nodded at her but kept his attention upon Joseph. “My lord—”

“I’ve heard a great deal about you, Mr. Scott,” Mrs. Moresby said, her loud voice and large presence giving the reverend little choice but to acknowledge her again.

“I do hope Lord Colville has given me a fair report,” Mr. Scott said gravely. “With all the time we spent together aboard the Tynemouth, may I be so bold as to say we’ve moved beyond mere formalities? It is my great hope that my wife and I and our lovely daughters may further our acquaintance with Lord Colville in the days to come. In fact, Lord Colville has already taken a liking to each of my daughters, so perhaps one day I shall have the privilege of an even more intimate acquaintance.”

At the reverend’s statement, Mrs. Moresby’s mouth hung open. Her gaze once again swung to Mercy, her eyes dancing with mirth. This time Mercy couldn’t hide her smile at the woman’s reaction to Mr. Scott.

Mrs. Moresby snorted at the same time that Joseph spoke. “Mr. Scott, I may speak to you freely, may I not?”

“Indeed, my lord—”

“I am not, nor will I ever be, interested in your daughters beyond an acquaintance.”

For once Mr. Scott clamped his lips together, clearly having no response.

“My sincerest apologies if I led you to believe otherwise.” Joseph’s brow creased. “They are indeed gracious young ladies, but my ardor and affection belong to another and always will.”