Worry crept into Calliope’s mind. She had definitely made a strategic mistake, and probably compromised her position as Lady Simpson’s companion. Lord, how she hated society. It was a game she could never win.

Lady Killroy seized the pause, obviously eager not to waste the opportunity of having Angelford at hand. "Yes, it’s always hard to find good help. On a more interesting note, Miss Jones was commenting on the new Italian marble being used at the palace. She and Miss Fredericks were recently presented at St. James’s."

Sarah took her cue. "Oh, yes. The marble is the loveliest shade of gray. And they found these lovely plants. They looked lovely in the…"

Calliope blotted out Sarah’s lovely voice, which could continue inane conversation for hours. She noticed Angelford’s boredom and felt a dash of good humor return at the thought of his being cornered by the two twits all evening.

Lady Simpson and Lady Killroy walked a few steps to the right in an obvious matchmaking attempt. Putting their heads together, unmindful as usual of being overheard by Calliope, Lady Simpson said softly, "Angelford has been out quite frequently this season. I figured his absence this past week meant he had once again disappeared, but his appearance tonight is promising."

"Do you suppose he could be in the market?"

"Anything is possible, though the mamas haven’t picked up the scent. If l had a daughter of marriageable age, I would be battle-ready."

"He's one of the ripest plums in England, although Killroy is of the mind he’ll never marry," Lady Killroy said.

Lady Simpson’s fan flicked open. "They all do eventually."