John had not wanted to talk with her about his dependents, or lack thereof, but he was running out of conversation. And she was not the type of lady with whom one could simply make small talk. They were also not at the point where he could speak to her about the future. Yet it had become clear to him this afternoon that he did want her as his wife. No other lady would do. “Have you been able to give my estate problem any thought?”

She glanced at him and smiled. “I have. There are several possibilities. Have you written the list of positions for which you need people?”

“It is at home.” He just stopped himself from dragging his hand down his face. “It’s more extensive than I had originally thought it was.”

She pressed her lips together and tilted her head to the side. “If you wish, you could join us for tea tomorrow. That will give me time to look at what you have.”

Thank God. He sent up a prayer to the deity. “Thank you. That would be perfect.”

Lady Brownly, a woman in her middling years wearing a cherry-colored turban, clapped her hands and called the guests to order.

“If you will take your seats,” she said. “I will introduce our special guest for the evening.”

He bent his head to whisper in Eleanor’s ear and saw her shudder slightly. Was that good or not? “Where would you like to sit?”

She glanced around. “All opera singers are used to projecting their voices. We could find chairs near the back if you wish.”

That was fine with him. John really had not wanted to be in the middle of a group of people. Although from the look of it, he would not be alone with her no matter where they sat. He steered them toward the back of the room until he found seats not far from her family, but not too close to them either. The one thing he could not do was upset Worthington or his lady. John caught Lady Alice sending him a sharp look. Perhaps he should make that the whole family. He smiled at her, then guided Eleanor to the second chair in the row.

She flashed him a grin. “Now that I know who is to be performing, I am quite excited to hear her again.”

“I heard Lady Madeline say she was glad it was not any of you.”

“She does not like to play in front of anyone but family. Alice and I do not mind.” Eleanor shrugged lightly. “We have practiced for it.”

“My sister didn’t like it either.” He had been in Town to provide her support during her first Season. “In fact, I believe I am safe in saying that she disliked almost everything about coming out. Except for the new clothing.”