“Yes, and almost in spite of yourself, I might add. If not for my advice on how to woo and win Meredith…”Andrew shook his head sadly. “Well, let us just say that the outcome of your courting was highly questionable.”

A rude sound escaped Philip. “Is that so? If you are such an expert, then why haven’t you yet succeeded with Catherine?”

“Because I’ve yet to start with her-thanks, most recently, to you. Tell me, is there not some other house in Mayfair you can haunt?”

“Fear not, I’m on my way out the door. However, if I leave now, I won’t be able to tell you about the two very interesting conversations I had this evening. One was with a Mr. Sidney Carmichael. Have you met him yet?”

Andrew shook his head. “The name is not familiar to me.”

“He was introduced to me by Mrs. Warrenfield, the wealthy American widow.” Philip lowered his voice. “If you happen to speak with her, be prepared to listen to her describe, in detail, her plethora of aches and pains.”

“Thank you for the warning. If only you’d told me an hour ago.”

“Ah. Something struck me as rather odd about the lady, but I cannot put my finger on it,” Philip said, frowning. “Did you notice anything?”

Andrew considered a moment. “I admit I was preoccupied when I spoke to her, but now that you mention it, yes. I think it’s her voice. It’s unusually deep and raspy for a lady. Combined with the veiled, black hat she wears, which obscures half her face, it’s a bit disconcerting to speak with her.”

“Yes, that must be it. Well, back to Mr. Carmichael. He’s interested in making a very sizable investment in the museum.”

“How sizable?”

“Five thousand pounds.”

Andrew’s brows shot upward. “Impressive.”

“Yes. He was most anxious to meet my American partner as he spent a number of years living in your country. I’m certain he’ll seek you out before the evening is over.”