Kendra was impressed that he knew about Vindication of the Rights of Women. Change would come slowly, but perhaps someday women would be able to speak in their own defense in a courtroom.

It was a short ride to Angelo’s Academy on Bond Street, and the coachman left them right in front of the door so it was only a brief dash through the rain to get inside. Kendra looked around with interest as she shook the raindrops from her black cloak. The academy’s main room had high ceilings, and molded arches on the walls featured paired swords of many styles, from rapiers to great two-handed Scottish claymores. There was even a pair of dirks, navy style like Lucas’s.

The academy was clearly home to sporting men and easy laughter. Groups of chairs and small tables were scattered near the walls for the comfort of observers, and two pairs of fencers were engaged at opposite ends of the great hall. The low rumble of conversation slowed when Kendra and her companions entered, but it picked up again quickly. Angelo’s denizens must be used to the sight of women.

A genial man approached, his expression welcoming. Kendra guessed it was Henry Angelo. “Colonel Duval, always a pleasure!” he exclaimed, shaking Simon’s hand. Turning to Lucas, he said, “Mr. Mandeville, or rather, Lord Foxton now. How excellent to see you again! It’s been too long, and rumor said you were dead.”

“Rumor is an unreliable fellow,” Lucas said as he shook Angelo’s proffered hand. “But in this case, not too far off.” He drew Kendra forward. “Allow me to present my cousin, Miss Kendra Douglas. She’s interested in possible lessons.”

Henry’s gaze sharpened. No doubt rumor had also reported Kendra’s divorce, but he took her hand with the same warmth he’d shown Lucas and Simon. “Then you’ve come to the right place, Miss Douglas. There are several ladies who practice here regularly. I will talk with you more later, but first, I want to see these two cross swords.” He gestured at Simon and Lucas.

The cousins exchanged a glance and Simon said, “We’re willing.” They stripped off their coats and hats, which were collected by a servant, along with Kendra’s cloak.

As Angelo provided them with two blunted small swords, Kendra said firmly, “Please don’t damage each other! Suzanne wouldn’t like it.”

“Neither would we,” Simon assured her. Eyes glinting, he said, “Now, cousin, let’s see how much you remember!”

“Not much. It’s been a long time,” Lucas replied with a smile, but as he flexed the blade of the light sword to acquaint himself with the weapon’s weight and balance, he had an air of experience.

Onlookers drifted into a loose circle that gave the two men room to fight. Lucas and Simon saluted with raised swords, then began sparring lightly, testing each other.