Miss Compton’s hand remained limp in Effie’s. She tugged it away at the first opportunity. “Any lady of refinement would have been similarly affected.”

“Many women fainted,” Ruth said. “According to this morning’s paper, some were so much afflicted they had to be conveyed to St. George’s Hospital. And that is not all.” She lowered her voice. “Mr. Galezzo expired last night, not long after he was removed from the Gardens.”

Effie had seen the report in this morning’s edition of the Courant. It had said the man had been conveyed to his home in Chelsea, where he had lingered for hours in an unconscious state before finally succumbing to his injuries.

“A tragedy, to be sure,” Effie said. “He was so young and so very talented.”

“Must the two of you speak of it in front of me?” Miss Compton whisked open her painted fan. She wafted it rapidly in a burst of pique. “It’s a miracle I’m not still confined to my bed after what transpired. I shouldn’t have bothered to come down at all if not for so many people calling to ask after my welfare.” She gave a petulant sniff in Ruth’s direction. “Though some have been markedly absent, I must say.”

Ruth’s sober expression took on a consoling air, even as her eyes glinted with impatience at Miss Compton’s affected invalidism. “My brother sent me in his stead. He meant no offense. Indeed, I thought it showed uncommon delicacy on his part. He had no desire to remind you of the events of last night.”

“As if any lady could forget!” Miss Compton turned her hostile glare on Effie. “I notice that you seem to have recovered with remarkable ease, Miss Flite.”

“Not at all,” Effie said. “I’m sure I shall be having nightmares for weeks.”

“I feel the same,” Ruth said. “One must soldier on, of course, but…I find myself in need of peace and quiet after yesterday’s events. My brother is escorting me home to Luxford Place for a brief respite. He’s making the arrangements as we speak.”

Miss Compton ceased fluttering her fan. “Lord Mannering is leaving London?” She sat up straight in her seat. “For how long?”

“We shall be back Wednesday afternoon.” Ruth turned to Effie. “Regrettably, it means I must miss that morning’s lecture at Lady Bartlett’s house.”

“I’m sorry to hear it,” Effie said. “I was looking forward to attending.”

“You needn’t forgo the pleasure on my account. Her ladyship welcomes all comers. You have only to show your face and her butler will admit you. Bring a friend, if you like.”

“Are you quite sure Lord Mannering will be coming back?” Miss Compton asked.