“I asked about her whereabouts,” Maddie said, sniffling again. “That wretch didn’t even bother to look ashamed. Apparently he owns a house where he’s been keeping her. I bid him to question the servants and make certain that she’s eating well. He’ll do it, as she may be carrying his heir.”

With that, she burst out sobbing, and Ophelia gathered her up and rocked her back and forth, making plans the whole while.

“Where are you bid to tonight?” she asked, once Maddie had calmed again.

“Nowhere tonight. Thursday, the theater, followed by supper at Lady Fernby’s house. I shall be in Penshallow’s box, though he has informed me that he is busy, likely with his other mistress, the one who isn’t carrying a child.”

“Excellent,” Ophelia said. “You must write to Lady Fernby, and tell her that due to your delicate condition, you wish me to accompany you. I’m sure that she’ll have no objection; we are quite friendly.”

“Oh, she loves you,” Maddie said. She brightened. “The Duke of Lindow will attend the supper, so you can meet again. Lady Fernby boasted that His Grace and Lady Woolhastings would join them.”

Ophelia winced, but luckily her cousin didn’t notice.

“Nothing’s been announced between them,” Maddie continued. “Perhaps you can still be a duchess, Ophelia. What shall you wear?”

“It doesn’t matter what I wear,” Ophelia said. “More important is what you wear. You can trust your maid, can’t you?”

“Of course,” Maddie said. “She was my nanny—” She broke off. “Oh, goodness, I suppose I’ll have to find a new maid because Dottie will wish to return to the nursery, without a doubt.”

“Excellent!” Ophelia said, jumping to her feet. “When I was carrying Viola, my maid fashioned a marvelous sling since my back hurt so terribly. It will hold a pillow in just the right position at your waist. I’ll ask her where it is.”

“And you trust her?”

“With my life,” Ophelia said. “The same for all my servants.”

“All right,” Maddie said, getting up. “I suppose it’s better to pretend to carry Penshallow’s child than actually have to carry it.”

“Under the circumstances, yes,” Ophelia said. “And much safer too. Just think of how many ladies have lost their lives in childbirth.”

Maddie brightened a little. “It’s terrible for one’s figure.”

“Exactly,” Ophelia said. “Just look what it did for my bosom.”

“I didn’t mean that,” Maddie protested, following her from the room. “I would love to have your curves.”

Chapter Ten

The Duke of Lindow’s townhouse

Mayfair

Hugo was meeting with one of his estate managers when a great noise rose from downstairs. He knew instantly what it was, so he stood and offered the man a smile. “It seems that I must break off our meeting, Mr. Elms. My children are apparently paying me an unexpected visit.”