“A reel, then.” Morgan selected the dance and gave a swift bow. “I’ll let you two ladies converse.” He turned and walked toward a circle of gentlemen, and Joan gave a finger wave to the Duchess of Wesley, who was standing nearby.

“I must say I’m very much looking forward to the reel,” Miss Bronson said with excitement in her tone. “It was very kind of your brother to ask me.”

“Of course, and he’s a lovely dancer,” Joan added, watching the spark in Miss Bronson’s eyes grow.

Did she perhaps have a tendre for Morgan? A matchmaking intrigue flashed through Joan’s mind before she pushed it away. “And how was the rest of your afternoon?” she asked Miss Bronson.

“A little dull. We arrived late to the season so our at-home hours have been a little lean, if you gather my meaning.”

“I’m sorry.” Joan patted her hand.

“It will get better. Sometimes you only need a little attention,” Miss Bronson said bravely. “And a dance with your brother certainly won’t hinder prospects. Rather, it could very well increase them. Don’t men always want something they think others already found valuable? It’s not the most poetic and romantic gesture, but if it draws attention, it can’t be too terrible. We must use what we can.” Miss Bronson gave a firm nod.

Joan’s brows rose. “Indeed. But remember that worth is so much more than a mere man’s opinion.”

“Of course, of course,” Miss Bronson replied emphatically. “But if I’m to find a husband this season, I won’t discount any help.”

“I understand.”

“Have you found any suitor exceptional so far?” Miss Bronson asked, her tone low.

Joan bit her lip, her mind immediately conjuring up an image of Rowles, but the picture was colored in shades of confusion. She was well aware of her own feelings, but trying to decipher his was utterly disorienting.

Joan decided to give the truth but to a broader scope. “I’ve had several callers, most of whom are agreeable, but I find I can only talk of hounds and horses for so long before I wish for more enticing conversation.” She shrugged. “But I do not mean to complain; I’m only making an observation.”

“I understand. Though I don’t have the same problem currently, I can imagine how it would be dull to discuss things that you find less than interesting,” Miss Bronson replied. “So no offers of yet?”

“No. But the season is still very new.”

“Indeed. Anything could happen, and I’m quite thrilled to be a part of it, rather than hear about it from the Tattler or gossip. It’s much more exciting to see it with your own eyes, don’t you think?”

“Yes, I agree,” Joan replied. “What about you? I know you’ve only recently arrived, but has any gentleman caught your eye?” she asked.