Joan studied him, not disregarding his quick words but staring, as if willing for him to meet her waiting eyes.

And Morgan studiously avoided doing so.

It was a tense moment, and Rowles waited to let it play out between the siblings.

Joan spoke clearly, her attention still fixed on her brother. “Is the name familiar?”

Morgan gave his head a shake and wiped his mouth with a napkin. “No.” But still he didn’t meet his sister’s inquiring look.

“Did you find her?” Rowles asked after another tense moment.

“No, she wasn’t ever admitted into the Foundling Hospital. Miss Vanderhaul believes her mother or kin took her in. And it’s possible there was no familial connection to begin with, but they always check. They are very thorough, which I find is very honorable.”

“Indeed. In that we are in agreement. I hope it wasn’t too much trouble to research.”

“No, it was quite fascinating, but I can see why they wished for a volunteer to assist them. It took some time.” There was tension that belied her relaxed expression.

The footmen removed the soup and replaced it with the next course.

“Are you enjoying your time at the Foundling Hospital?” Rowles asked.

Joan’s tone was answer enough as she enthusiastically described the way the hospital operated and provided information concerning the building and its patrons. “It’s quite fascinating and they truly have the children’s best interests at heart.”

“And you started with the Foundling Hospital because of your friend who leads the women’s group, correct?”

“Yes. You’re correct. It’s also where I met my new friend, Miss Bronson,” Joan answered.

“And are you still reading Mary Wollstonecraft?”

“Yes, but we won’t meet again till next month. Lady Sandra is away from town so we’ve postponed.”

“That’s surely a welcome diversion,” Rowles added.

“Yes, she will be in Bath.”

“It can be quite healthy, I’ve heard.”

“Indeed. I wouldn’t mind visiting Bath as well. It’s been at least five years since we’ve been to our estate there.” She turned to her brother. “Hasn’t it?”

Morgan was watching the two of them cautiously. “At least five years, but it’s a small estate and doesn’t need much hands-on management. My steward is the best in the shire.”

“Murtaug is quite capable, but it would be fun to return, even for a few days,” Joan suggested hopefully.

“We shall see, perhaps after the season.” Morgan’s scrutiny shifted to Rowles, then back to his meal.

If all went as Rowles hoped, the decision to visit Bath would rest upon his shoulders. By the end of the season, Joan could be his wife. But Morgan could have been conveying his disapproval by sending the message that he would still be in control of Joan’s future come the end of the season.

Which meant a refusal.