Julianna had felt a momentary burst of elation at the mention of inexpensive lodgings in London, but new gowns and a lady’s maid had never been in the family budget, nor were they in her budget. "I don’t understand, Mama. What has happened?" she asked, wondering if some unknown relative had died and left them a fortune.

"What has happened is that I have managed to put your small inheritance to grand use – and in a manner that will pay excellent returns, I am sure."

Julianna's mouth opened in a silent cry of furious protest, but she was incapable of speech for the moment -which Lady Skeffington evidently mistook for shared ecstasy.

"Yes, it is all true! You are going to London for the Season, where we will contrive a way for you to mingle with all the right people! While we are there, I have every confidence you will captivate some eligible gentleman who will make you a splendid offer. Perhaps even the Earl of Langford, whose estates are said to be beyond compare. Or Nicholas DuVille, who is one of the richest men in England and France and is about to inherit a Scottish title from a relative of his mama. I have it from several unimpeachable sources that the Earl of Langford and the Earl of Glenmore – which is what DuVille will be called-are considered to be the two most desirable bachelors in Europe! Just imagine how envious the Ton will be when little Julianna Skeffington captures one of those men for a husband."

Julianna could almost hear the sound of her dreams splintering and crashing at her feet. "I don’t want a husband!" she cried. "I want to travel, and learn, and write, Mama. I do. I think I could write a novel someday – Grandmama said I am truly talented with a pen. No, don’t laugh, please. You must get the money back, you must!"

"My dear, foolish girl, I wouldn't even if I could, which I cannot.