“She is quite pretty.” Camille wasn’t entirely sure of the girl’s acting ability, however. Upon meeting Miss Murdock, one wasn’t struck so much by the young actress’s intelligence as by her appearance. Still, no man in her presence would question what she was saying, as they would, no doubt, be too busy staring at her red curls or her pouting lips or voluptuous bosom. Camille suspected the young woman’s primary success on the stage would be in catching a wealthy husband.

“And the role of your uncle, Colonel Channing, will be ably managed by Mr. Wilfred Henderson. A fine Shakespearean actor with extensive credits and, even now, a considerable presence on stage.”

“Really?” Beryl’s brow rose. “I’ve never heard of him.”

“He never quite gained the acclaim he should have.” Mr. Fortesque paused. “Mr. Henderson had the unfortunate habit of imbibing more than was wise before a performance.” He hesitated. “Afterward as well. But he has given up overindulgence,” he added quickly.

Beryl snorted.

He ignored her. “The rest of the troupe will be playing the parts of maids and footmen. And while they may be actors now, very nearly all of them left a life of service to seek their fortune among the footlights.”

He met her gaze with confidence. “You may rest assured, Lady Lydingham, this shall be our greatest performance ever.”

Camille cast him a grateful smile. “Thank you, Mr. Fortesque.”

“It is I who should thank you.” He hesitated. “I should confess that we are not, as yet, a very accomplished troupe. We have only recently formed, in fact, and, indeed, some of us are as yet lacking in . . . extensive experience on stage. We are most grateful for the opportunity you have provided us to hone our skills, as well as spend Christmas in as magnificent a house as Millworth Manor.”

Camille stared. “How recent?”

“Specifically?” Concern flashed across the actor’s face.

“No, no.” She thrust out her hand to stop him. “I don’t think I want to know, after all. It’s far better to maintain hope than have it shattered.”

“That’s what I always say,” Beryl added.

“Not that I’ve noticed,” Camille snapped. Perhaps she should have been somewhat more selective in hiring the troupe, but she’d never hired actors before and considered herself fortunate to have found these. Besides, nothing could be done about it now, but hope for the best. She adopted a pleasant smile. “I’m certain you will all do an excellent job.”