Did that mean his mother and sister were only passing on information? In that case, he needn’t worry about them. But why his sister and mother? Then he recalled that Lytton’s estate was in Yorkshire. Naturally Aurelia would have the wherewithal to obtain information another female might not. John changed his direction and headed toward Brooks’s. There was no need to bother his brother-in-law with it if Aurelia was only gathering information.

The day had brightened after a cloudy morning and the weather was becoming warmer. It was at times like this he missed the country. A long walk across the meadows would do him good. He’d been inside too much of late. Then again, he had been quite busy with the Lords, and letters from his estates, and social obligations. Speaking of which, he should send flowers to Eleanor. He’d meant to do it earlier.

He turned onto Piccadilly Street and turned left until he reached Coventry Street, which took him to Covent Garden. He was relieved to see that the flower sellers were still out.

“Sweet violets, a penny a bunch,” one young girl called out.

“A penny a bunch for lavender,” another girl said at his heels.

“Peony, one for a penny,” a third child said.

Stopping, he looked at them. All three were very young and too thin. The “bunches” were not that large. “I’ll take all of them.” His housekeeper could help him make a bouquet for Eleanor. He took out the coins, being careful that no one was close enough to pick his pocket. “Here you are.”

“I can take ’em fer ye,” a boy almost as young as the girls and just as skinny stopped about a foot away from John.

“Montagu House on Grosvenor Street.” He handed the child a coin and the flowers. “Tell my butler I said to match that.”

The lad tugged his cap and ran off toward Coventry Street. At least he was going in the correct direction. He scanned the square that, at first, appeared to be in complete chaos. For the most part, the houses lining the area were in need of repair. But the vendors had managed to sort themselves into some semblance of order. Glancing at his watch, he remembered that he was due at Merton House. If he walked quickly, he’d just make it in time for the meeting. But first he had to go by his house and hope the flowers were there. They must be sent to Eleanor as soon as possible. Even though she had not danced with many gentlemen, several had been introduced to her. It would not surprise John at all if numerous bouquets had already been delivered to Worthington House.

* * *

Eleanor and her sisters were in the hall waiting for Grace when a knock sounded on the door.