Max nodded in response to this formal statement As Mr. Whitney bowed, prepared to depart, Max, a
past master of social intrigue, saw one last hole in the wall and moved to block it. "If there's any matter you wish to discuss with Miss Twinning, I suggest you do it through me, as if I was, in truth, her guardian. As you handle both our estates, there can really be no impropriety in keeping up appearances. For Miss Twinning's sake."
Mr. Whitney bowed again. "I foresee no problems, Your Grace."
CHAPTER TWO
After Mr. Whitney left, Max issued a set of rapid and comprehensive orders to his majordomo Wilson.
In response, his servants flew to various corners of London, some to Twyford House, others to certain agencies specializing in the hire of household staff to the elite of the ton. One footman was despatched with a note from the Duke to an address in Half Moon Street, requesting the favour of a private
interview with his paternal aunt, Lady Benborough.
As Max had intended, his politely worded missive intrigued his aunt. Wondering what had prompted
such a strange request from her reprehensible nephew, she immediately granted it and settled down to await his coming with an air of pleasurable anticipation.
Max arrived at the small house shortly after noon. He found his aunt attired in a very becoming gown
of purple sarsenet with a new and unquestionably modish wig perched atop her commanding visage.
Max, bowing elegantly before her, eyed the wig askance.
Augusta Benborough sighed. "Well, I suppose I'll have to send it back, if that's the way you feel about it!"
Max grinned and bent to kiss the proffered cheek. "Definitely not one of your better efforts, Aunt."
She snorted. "Unfortunately, I can hardly claim you know nothing about it. It's the very latest fashion,