Beyond that, and the household and formal duties pertaining to the role of Countess of Chillingworth, I would make no further demands of the lady. In return, in addition to the position itself and all things reasonably accruing to it, such as her wardrobe, her own carriage and servants, I will settle on her an allowance that will enable her to live in luxury for the rest of her days. I’m hardly a pauper after all.”

“With due respect, neither is Francesca.”

“So I understand. However, with the exception of the deed to the Gatting property, which I wish to return to the Lambourn estate, her various inheritances will remain hers to do with as she pleases.”

Charles’s brows rose. “That is indeed generous.” His gaze grew distant. “I have to admit that my marriage was arranged…” After a moment, he refocused on Gyles. “I fear I must ask, cousin-is there any particular reason you’re so insistent your marriage be an arranged one?”

“If you mean do I have a mistress of long standing whom I don’t wish to set aside, or something of that nature, the answer is no.” Gyles considered Charles, considered his open and honest brown eyes. “The reason I wish to keep my marriage-every aspect of it-on a businesslike footing is because I have absolutely no patience with the concept of love in marriage. It’s a highly overrated circumstance-one, moreover, with which I desire no closer acquaintance. I do not wish my prospective wife to entertain any notion that I offer love, either now or in some rosy-hued future. From the first, I want her to know that love is not part of our equation. I see no benefit in raising the prospect, and will and do insist that my intent is made clear from the outset.”

Charles regarded him for some time, then nodded. “It could be said that you’re only being more honest than others who think the same.”