“It was an excellent beginning,” Camille said with more confidence than she felt. She twisted her hands together absently. She would never admit it to Beryl, but she was far more apprehensive about this farce than she had expected. In spite of her assurances to her sister before their arrival, she was well aware of exactly how many things could go wrong. What had she been thinking, anyway? Still, it was too late to turn back now.

“Perhaps it would ease your mind somewhat if I were to reiterate, again, who is playing which of the primary roles,” Mr. Fortesque said with a helpful smile.

Camille couldn’t help but like the man; he was a most likeable sort. Older, somewhere in his forties, she thought, quite tall, with a head of hair that had seen fuller days, he had thrown himself and his players into this production with enthusiasm. Naturally, she’d had no other choice but to take him into her confidence, at least to some extent, to explain why she thought it was necessary to conceal her family’s eccentric nature from Prince Nikolai. Mr. Fortesque appeared to understand and had vowed he and his troupe would do all in their power to ensure a successful performance. But then she was paying them a significant amount to do so. Mr. Fortesque understood as well that if their farce did not end happily, payment for services rendered might be far less than expected.

“Oh, please do,” Beryl said brightly.

Camille cast her a quelling glance. “That would be most appreciated, Mr. Fortesque.”

“Very well.” He cleared his throat. “The role of your mother, Lady Briston, is being played by Mrs. Angela Montgomery-Wells. She has vast experience, has spent years touring the provinces and has played mothers of every ilk and fashion. A fine actress in her day.” He winced slightly, as if he had said more than he had intended.

“Do go on, Mr. Fortesque,” Beryl said.

He chose his words with care. “On occasion she might be somewhat absentminded. Rarely she has been known to forget her lines. But I have rehearsed her quite thoroughly,” he said in what was obviously meant to be a reassuring tone. “She could play this part in her sleep. This role was made for her.”

Beryl bit back a grin. Camille did wish her sister would desist being quite so amused.

“The part of your younger sister, Lady Hargate, is being played by our ingénue, Edwina Murdock. Not overly experienced before she came to us, but most enthusiastic and extremely friendly, with a natural gift one does not see often.” He lowered his voice in a confidential manner. “With her looks and her talent, that young woman will make her mark in the theater one day.”

“Talent will tell,” Beryl said.