“I have as have my brothers-in-law,” Worthington said. “There are many very good practices. The only difficulty is sometimes convincing our tenants there are better methods than the old ones.”
“Yes, but that is the way with most things,” Lady Worthington said. “You remember the problems starting schools.”
Schools on estates? Giff considered the challenges and the possibilities. “I must look into that.”
“The husband of a friend came up with the perfect solution,” Alice said. “If you are interested, we may discuss it.”
“I am extremely interested.” The time had gone so quickly. He was surprised to look at the clock when it struck the hour to see it was already five o’clock. “We should be going.”
Standing, she drew on a pair of leather gloves. “My carriage will be waiting.”
He helped her into the high-perched phaeton before climbing into his own side. At a nod from her, the groom let the horses go, and she expertly feathered the corner on to Hill Street. Giff folded his arms over his chest and leaned back against the comfortable squabs. He could get used to this. Not saying anything, she cast him a quick look, then turned her attention to her horses. He studied her profile. Her rosy lips turned up slightly at the ends, and her jaw was relaxed. She must have a good deal of experience driving a carriage to be so calm. “How long have you been driving?”
“Since I was quite young. My papa”—her voice broke when she mentioned her father—“started teaching me. Later Grace had her friend Phoebe Evesham instruct us.”
That was impressive. Her ladyship was one of the best whips in the country as well as being an excellent judge of horseflesh. “No wonder you are so good.”
Alice’s smile broadened. “Thank you.”
They passed through the gate and onto the carriage way. As expected, they stopped every few feet as they were greeted by friends and acquaintances. His mother was riding with Lady Bellamny. He’d known her since he was a child, but neither that nor his rank saved him from the sharp edge of her tongue when she chose to use it on him. She greeted Alice as if she was a granddaughter. More pieces about the lady he wanted to marry fell into place. She had been raised amongst thehaut ton, giving her a poise beyond her years. And she had not been sheltered from the suffering of others. She did not stand on ceremony, but she could give one an excellent garden-bear jaw when she thought it was needed. If only he had not been so full of himself when he’d first met her. He caught her ladyship’s knowing look and inclined his head slightly. It was time to be seen with Alice enough to cause speculation about his intentions. And for her to see him as a possible husband.
Alice saw the look her ladyship gave St. Albans but could not work out what it meant. She was a little concerned about greeting the duchess. After all, she had not allowed St. Albans to attend her come out ball. She took a breath. “It is very nice to see you again, your grace.”
The duchess’s face was wreathed in smiles. “I am delighted to see you. I trust you are enjoying your ride?”
“I am.” Alice could not resist shooting St. Alban’s a grin. “His lordship has not attempted to hang on to the rail once.”
“Never let it be said I’m pudding-hearted,” St. Albans said.
“No, my dear,” the duchess said. “That you never were. Much to my consternation at times.”
Alice found herself wanting to hear about his mishaps as a child. Many times they told more about the person than their good behavior. Alice glanced behind her. “We must be moving on.”
Her grace opened her mouth to say something and stopped. “We will see you later, I am sure.”
“Will you be at the balloon ascension tomorrow?”
“I shall, indeed.” Her grace smiled. “I would not miss something so exciting.”
“Mamma, whose ball is it tomorrow evening?” St. Albans asked, sounding just like Matt.
Gentlemen never seemed to be able to keep track of a social calendar. “Lady Tuttle’s.”
“Ah yes. I remember now.” He turned to Alice. “Would you grant me the supper dance? I promise you I will not serve you lobster patties.”
Alice struggled not to laugh out loud. “Yes, you may have the set.”
“Just in time. Here come Hereford and Bury.”
Each of them asked for a dance as well, and Lord Bolingbrook rode up. “Lady Alice, may I have a set for the ball tomorrow?”
“You may. The third dance.” Soon her dances were filled. When they reached the gate, it occurred to her she had spent most of the day with St. Albans and was reluctant to leave his company. “Shall we go for ices?”
“That is a wonderful idea.” He smiled at her, and butterflies took up residence in her chest. That was in addition to the tingles. This was not good. “I’m looking forward to seeing what their special flavors are today.”
It was a warm day, and Gunter’s was already crowded. A harried waiter ran up to them. “Our flavors today are blueberry, melon, raspberry, and lavender.”
St. Albans glanced at her. “You pick first. Perhaps we can share.”
