Ronnie nodded. “It’s a closely guarded secret. I suspect that’s why Mr. Goldman introduced him to you. He’s made it clear to Craig that he needs to marry somebody and marry quickly. Marriage to a young lady with royal connections would look good in all the picture papers, wouldn’t it?”

“How awful,” I said. “Luckily I have Darcy or I might have been swept off my feet and said yes.”

“You’d better warn your friend in a discreet way,” Ronnie said.

“Yes.” I was watching them. It would be interesting to see how things progressed.

Dinner ended and Mr. Goldman stood up. “I fancy a good cigar. Any of you guys care to join me?”

“You’d better go and smoke in your library then,” Mrs. Goldman said. “You know how I hate the smell of cigar smoke. It gives me a headache.”

“Fine with me,” Mr. Goldman said. “Brandy and cigars in the library, guys. Anyone coming?”

“I will.” Darcy got up to follow him, as did Archie, Craig and Ronnie. Charlie Chaplin started to follow them, then turned back. “I think I’d rather get to know this young lady with the long legs,” he said, making a beeline for me. “I want you to tell me all about yourself.”

“There’s really not much to tell,” I said, blushing as the others watched while he escorted me from the room.

“I believe Maria’s put out coffee in the rotunda,” Mrs. Goldman said. She led us through double doors to a round open area, just off the main foyer. It was decorated more in the Spanish style with leather sofas and chairs, heavy dark wood tables. Coffeepots and cups had been put on a low central table.

“Now come and sit next to me, you sweet young thing, and I’ll attempt to corrupt you,” Charlie Chaplin said.

“I’ve been warned about you, Mr. Chaplin,” I replied, safe in the knowledge that I was surrounded by people and Darcy was nearby. Also that two minutes ago he’d been flirting with my mother, who now looked slightly miffed.

“No doubt by our dear Barbara.” He flashed her a wicked smile. “All lies.”

“You know I only ever speak the truth, Charlie,” Barbara said. “Nobody has ever managed to sue me for libel yet, especially not you.” She went to sit beside Mrs. Goldman.

“I should help pass around the coffee,” I said, dodging past him to where Belinda was already handing around cups. Belinda was looking pleased with herself.

“Did you see how he didn’t take his eyes off me once all through dinner?” she whispered. “I think this may be it, Georgie. I’ve finally struck gold.”