James glanced at the clock as though to take issue, but grinned instead. “Sorry, Rene, it is damned early.”

“She must be very beautiful,” the countess noted, smiling in return.

“Not in the conventional sense, but yes she is.”

“So who is this seductive female? Apparently not one of your actresses or dancers since you want something from me.”

Ormond’s gaze was amused. “How astute, coz. The thing is, I need a raft of books from your library. Miss Russell runs a school for young ladies and I thought I’d visit her today and bring your donation of books for her school.”

“Your books won’t do?” Ormond had an extensive library.

“Of course not. What will people say if I donate books to her?”

“They will say you’re trying to seduce the little miss.”

“Exactly.”

“What was I thinking?”

“I have no idea. Perhaps you’re still not completely awake.”

“Perhaps,” she murmured, “since it’s not yet ten o’clock. However, your high-strung impatience intrigues me.”

His look clearly disputed her characterization. “High-strung?”

“Oh, very well,” she murmured, knowing Ormond generally didn’t care enough about anything to become agitated. “Although you must admit to a degree of impatience at least.”

“Lust, I’m afraid.”

“Of course-the prime motive in your life.”

“We can’t all be virtuous. The beau monde would have nothing to gossip about.”

“Thankfully, you have been doing your part to generate conversation in that regard.”

He smiled faintly. “We do what we can.”

“I expect this new woman who pleases you will soon be in the gossip sheets.” Leaning back in her chair, the countess gazed with affection on her favorite cousin. “So tell me why she so engages your attention. Should I have heard of this Miss Russell?”

“No, but I wish you to meet her tonight. To that purpose, I’d like you to invite her to your evening rout. Address your invitation to Mrs. Bellingham, Miss Russell, and Harriet Russell; she lives with an aunt. And if you could pay them some special attention when they arrive, I would be extremely grateful.”