Settled in the library with coffee laced generously with brandy, the two men did not mention love, rings, or wives, but talked amiably of the latest debates in the House of Lords. As an exiled Frenchman, Boch naturally had no part in government but he took a keen interest, particularly given the threatened grain riots.

“I am wondering,” he said, “whether we could have prevented the revolution in France. If we had had grain machines, such as you are beginning to use here, could it have prevented the rage of the peasants?”

“But my understanding,” Alex said delicately, “is that grain was not scarce, but the peasants were not allowed to eat any. In other words, that food was being hoarded by the very rich.”

“Yes, that is true,” Lucien said in a brooding voice. “I told my father….” His voice trailed off. “We grew complacent, and that is a great sin. My brother, in particular, understood the danger. He bought land in England.” Lucien looked up. “That is why I am not destitute, like the majority of my countrymen living in England. He was very intelligent, my brother. He came to England twice a year for several years, and slowly moved a good deal of our wealth into the house here.”

Alex noted in silence that Lucien’s brother was also dead. “Do you enjoy fencing?” he asked, changing the subject.

“I love it,” Lucien said, his voice brightening.

“Would you care to have a match tomorrow?” he asked. “Just before leaving Italy I began to learn the French method of fencing, and I would appreciate a chance to practice the art.”

“I should be honored,” Lucien said formally. “Tomorrow, at Breedhaven’s?”

Suddenly Alex remembered Pippa. He couldn’t meet Lucien for fencing practice while she was awake because she couldn’t enter the all-male premises of Breedhaven’s Fencing Emporium.

“I would prefer to fence at Sheffield House, if you don’t mind,” he said without explanation.

Lucien’s eyes were puzzled. “Certainly, my lord,” he replied. Why on earth would a man want to fence at his own house instead of at the fencing court? He rose to his feet. He was an unusually tall Frenchman who came eye-to-eye with Alex. They would be good fencing partners, Lucien thought with satisfaction.

He held out his hand and Alex shook it without hesitation. “I will see you in the morning, my lord,” Lucien said. He hesitated, and smiled. “I shall not bring my ring to a gaming establishment again,” he said. “There are not many who would show your kindness.” He bowed deeply. “I am truly thankful.”