Ignoring Kingsly, he said, “Yes, I’m American.”

“Spent some time in your country during my travels,” Carmichael said. “Mostly in the Boston area. Where are you from?”

Andrew hesitated only half a beat. He didn’t care for answering questions about himself. “Philadelphia.”

“Never visited there,” Carmichael said with a regretful air. “I’m a lover of antiquities. Avenbury, Ferrymouth, and Borthrasher have been singing the praises of your and Lord Greybourne’s museum. I’d like to discuss an investment with you.” He pulled a card from his waistcoat pocket and handed it to Andrew. “My direction. I hope you’ll call upon me soon.”

Andrew slipped the card into his pocket and nodded. “I will.”

“I’d like to discuss investing with you as well, Stanton,” chimed in the duke. “Always looking for a good opportunity.”

“Always looking for investors,” Andrew said, hoping his smile was not as tight as it felt. “If you gentlemen will excuse me…” He nodded and made his way around them.

As he passed Lord Avenbury, the young lord said to the group, “Ferrymouth and I are off to the gaming tables. I’d wanted an opportunity to dance with Lady Catherine, but I suppose there’s always next time.”

Andrew froze and glared at the young man’s profile.

“Delectable tidbit, she is,” Lord Avenbury said. He licked his lips, and the group laughed. Andrew had to clench his hands to keep from discovering how Avenbury would look without any lips at all.

“Her estate is close to mine, you know,” the duke said, lifting his quizzing glass, jeweled ring flashing. “Very convenient.”

“Really?” Lord Kingsly said, a distinctly lecherous gleam in his beady eyes. “I might need to pry an invitation from you, Kelby. Yes, I believe I feel a sudden urge to visit your place and take the waters.”

“Excellent notion,” seconded Lord Ferrymouth. “Borthrasher, don’t you suffer the occasional bout of the gout? The waters would do you wonders, I’m certain.” Borthrasher nodded, and Ferrymouth beamed at the duke. “I believe a gathering at your home is in order, Kelby.” His sweeping hand encompassed the group. “We’d all love to come. A few days of hunting, soaking in the springs”-he waggled his brows-“visiting the neighbors.”