“Yes, on both accounts. And I can see that you’ve been well.” His gaze dipped briefly to her gown. “You look lovely.”

“Thank you.” She was tempted to admit to him her relief at finally packing away her mourning clothes, but wisely held her tongue. To do so might lead to another discussion of Bertrand-as her appearance this evening already had with other guests-and she had no desire to speak of her deceased husband.

“May I help you locate someone, Lady Catherine?”

“As a matter of fact, I was looking for you.” Not strictly the truth, but he did represent what she’d been searching for-a safe cove amongst the choppy waters.

Unmistakable pleasure flashed in his eyes. “How convenient, as here I am.”

“Yes. Here you… are.” Looking strong and solid, familiar yet imposing-the perfect candidate to distract her attention from her worries and discourage the bothersome gentlemen who had buzzed around her all evening like hovering insects.

His lips twitched. “Do you plan to tell me why you were searching for me, or are we to play charades?”

“Charades?”

“ ‘Tis an amusing game where one person acts out words, in a pantomime fashion, while others guess what he is trying to say.”

“I see.” She pursed her lips and made an exaggerated show of studying him. “Hmmm. Your clearly tugged-upon cravat, combined with that hint of furrow between your brows indicates you are trying to say that you wish Philip had remained to chat with all these potential museum investors.”

“A very astute observation, Lady Catherine. Philip is much more adept at navigating these waters than I. I can only hope I do not frighten off any of our financial backing before Meredith gives birth and Philip returns to London.”

“I saw you speaking with several people this evening, and none appeared overly frightened. As for Philip, I was pleased he came to the party, albeit for a short time.”