He flashed Augusta a smile and she returned it. “Do remember about whom you are speaking. We discussed Aztec architecture in Nahuatl.”

Naturally, they did. Languages were her sister’s passion. “And to think I have been afraid to bring up anything other than the weather.” Was that the reason Lord Montagu did not speak about anything important? It might be the time to take her conversations with the gentleman in hand. “You have given me an idea.”

“Did Louisa become sick at Almack’s?” Madeline asked

“No. It was Lucinda, her sister-in-law.” Augusta gave her sister a dubious look. “I cannot imagine Louisa being afraid of anything.”

“She and Charlotte were a little nervous, but nothing to speak of,” Grace said. “You will all be fine as well.”

Madeline glanced at Grace. “Will Mama be accompanying us?”

“She and Richard will join us there,” Matt responded. “I agree with Grace. You will all do well. Do not get into a state about attending.” He rose. “Unfortunately, I must leave. I will see you at dinner.”

Drat. Eleanor would have to speak with him later. Still, his advice was good. She had not been at all worried before, but now she felt a twinge of anxiety. She would simply decide not to be nervous. The worst thing that could happen was that no one asked her to dance, but she already had two sets spoken for.

“Walter and I will be there as well,” Charlie said, giving her, Madeline, and Alice an encouraging look. “Remember. All hands on deck.”

“That’s right.” Walter grinned. “You have nothing about which to be concerned.”

Next to her, Madeline blinked rapidly. “I am very glad you are my brothers.”

“I am too,” Alice said.

Phinn whispered something to Augusta, and she nodded. “Augusta and I will be there as well.”

“Yes.” Eleanor reached under the table for Madeline’s hand and gave it a squeeze. “We are very, very lucky.”

Almack’s would not be the problem. Whether Lord Montagu could actually talk about something substantial might be. Eleanor would simply have to find out.

* * *

John and St. Albans were just finishing breakfast when his mother entered the room.

They both rose and greeted her.

“Good morning.” She inclined her head graciously. “Please take your seats. You do not want your tea to become cold.”

“You should ask her ladyship if she has vouchers for Almack’s.” St. Albans’s tone was so low only John would be able to hear it.

Vouchers? Why the devil would John need a voucher? He asked in a hushed voice, “What for?”

St. Albans rolled his eyes. “You can’t get in without them.”

Normally John did not rely on his rank, but he was a marquis. “My rank should be enough.”

“Well, it’s not.” His friend sounded exasperated. “Ask her or you won’t be dancing with Lady Eleanor.”