Mama held her wineglass up for Mr. Hornby to refill. “Such a topic ought not be aired on any day of the week. My guests will think I’ve reared a trio of hoydens.”

Mr. Hornby next offered the wine to Samantha, Rex’s middle sister. “I have always preferred the company of ladies who can speak their minds,” Hornby opined. “One needn’t be as cautious with one’s own words in their company.”

Samantha saluted him with her refilled wineglass. “Precisely, Mr. Hornby. What is the purpose of spending time in company if all we’re to do is prose on about the weather—which is obvious to all—and the health of one’s elders, which topic the elders happily broach at any gathering?”

Samantha—green ensemble with gold piping—punctuated her observation with a sidelong glance at Rex.

“Do I qualify for elder status?” he asked. And why was Hornby aiming such a calf-eyed smile at Samantha?

“Of course you do,” Rachel replied. “You are the oldest sibling, the head of the family, and your well-being is of great interest to all of polite society.”

“Not all,” Kathleen, the youngest, replied from Rex’s right hand. “I’ve heard a bachelor or two wish our dear brother to the Pit, and the concern mentioned most often among the ladies is a great worry that Elsmore might be lonely.” She drew out that last word for the sake of melodrama, and provoked a round of laughter. Her attire today was cream linen with fanciful flowers embroidered on the bodice and cuffs. She’d made her come-out the previous spring, which had left Rex feeling ancient and protective.

Had even Kathleen learned to return her dresses for coin?

Mama rose, wineglass in her hand. “Let’s do our part to lend credence to the concern regarding Elsmore’s loneliness, ladies. It’s time we abandoned the menfolk while we enjoy a respite in the drawing room.”

The ladies rustled out on a cloud of silk and laughter, Hornby offering them escort.

“I asked Hornby to give us a moment,” Lord Jeremy said. “Seemed more discreet than trying to find you at your clubs.”

Rex left off wondering about ledgers, kisses, and returned dresses. “You have the look of a man with something to say, my lord. Speak your piece. If you need a second, I can be counted on to serve with discretion, though I insist on an attempt at reconciliation before battle is joined.”

“Oh, my goodness me, not at all. On an occasion such as the one I contemplate, one is supposed to make an appointment with the head of the lady’s family.” Lord Jeremy had become fascinated with the half serving of trifle that remained in a bowl before him. “Except that my family will know if I make any such appointments, and I haven’t mentioned my ambitions to the lady, and one wants to be spared unnecessary humiliation.”