“He was an astronomer, I believe?”

Tobias nodded. “Also a geographer, mathematician, and astrologer, among other things. He wrote scientific treatises on a great many subjects.”

“It’s too bad he couldn’t settle on one thing.”

Tobias smiled in response. “You would find his Geographia interesting, I think. He explains how he used data to create a map of the known world.”

“That sounds fascinating. How can I read it?”

“I’ll procure a copy.”

She stopped altogether then and pivoted toward him. “I can’t believe how lucky I am. Thank you. For everything you’ve done. For bringing me here—to London, I mean. I know your father made a promise to my father and that the guardianship was made in writing, but you don’t have to do all that you are. You certainly didn’t have to escort me here today.”

“It is my pleasure to do so.” And he meant it. Her eagerness and excitement for her new life were infectious. He was surprised by how much he truly enjoyed her company.

“How will I ever be able to repay your kindness?” She blushed slightly. “Well, I can’t ever actually repay you—that court gown alone is beyond my comprehension of expense—but I should like you to know how grateful I will always be.”

“When you are married well and happily settled, that will be all the repayment I require.” He patted her hand and started walking again.

“Lord Overton, Miss Wingate,” a gentleman Tobias recognized as Mr. Rowntree called as he strode toward them.

Tobias tipped his head slightly toward Miss Wingate and whispered, “Didn’t you dance with him the other night?”

“Yes,” she murmured as they came to a stop.

Young and spry with a sharp chin and a warm smile, Mr. Rowntree bowed to Miss Wingate and inclined his head toward Tobias. “Good afternoon. Lovely day to visit the museum. Are you enjoying the exhibits?”

“Yes, thank you,” Miss Wingate replied. “Do you have a favorite?”

“I do love the Greek antiquities. I’m just headed there.”

“Miss Wingate likes maps,” Tobias said. “We’ve just come from the library.” He felt her stiffen and wondered if he’d said something wrong.

“Oh, indeed? How marvelous. Are you interested in travel, Miss Wingate?”

“I think so, yes. For now, I’m enjoying exploring London. There is so much to see and do.”

“You would like my home near Durham. It has a large library with many maps.” He winked at her. “And Durham is a lovely city. The cathedral is perhaps the finest in England.”

“Durham is quite beautiful,” Tobias said. “And your library sounds magnificent.”

Miss Wingate turned her head toward him and gave him a puzzled stare. She returned her attention to Mr. Rowntree and gave him a pretty smile. “I’m keen to see Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s.”

“Both are splendid. Perhaps I may escort you to one of them. Or both?” He looked at her with unabashed hope.

Tobias felt a surge of glee—this was a definite suitor! Or potential one, anyway. He glanced over at his ward. She could do far worse. Rowntree wasn’t titled, of course, but she couldn’t really expect that. Tobias imagined her father would have been quite pleased with this match, as would Tobias’s father. The latter was almost annoying. Tobias hated doing anything that would please his father.