"As a governess?" His steady green gaze remained ingenuously interested.

"No. That's only an intermediary stage. I decided eighteen was too young to go adventuring in Africa. I've decided to follow in Lady Stanhope's footsteps." "Good God!"

Honoria ignored his tone. "I have it all planned-my burning ambition is to ride a camel in the shadow of the Great Sphinx. One would be ill-advised to undertake such an expedition too young; governessing in a manner that requires spending only a year with each family seemed the ideal way to fill in the years. As I need provide nothing beyond my clothes, my capital grows while I visit various counties, staying in select households. That last, of course, eases Michael's mind."

"Ah, yes-your brother. What's he doing while you fill in your years?"

Honoria eyed her inquisitor measuringly. "Michael is secretary to Lord Carlisle. Do you know him?"

"Carlisle? Yes. His secretary, no. I take it your brother has political ambitions?"

"Lord Carlisle was a friend of Papa's-he's agreed to stand as Michael's sponsor."

His brows rose fleetingly, then he drained his mug. "What made you decide on governessing as your temporary occupation?"

Honoria shrugged. "What else was there? I'd been well educated, prepared for presentation. Papa was adamant that I be presented to the ton, puffed off with all the trimmings-paraded beneath my grandfather's nose. He hoped I'd make a wonderful match, just to show Grandfather no one else shared his antiquated notions."

"But your parents were killed before you were brought out?"

Honoria nodded. "Lady Harwell, an old friend of Mama's, had a daughter two years younger than I. After putting off black gloves, I broached my idea to her-I thought with my background, my preparation, I could teach other girls how to go on. Lady Harwell agreed to a trial. After I finished coaching Miranda, she landed an earl. After that, of course, I never wanted for positions."