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“It is the most likely outcome of my life. It is only two weeks since I have returned to London, I will read and observe over the next few months until I reach my majority. My challenge is that I am no longer needed at my uncle’s offices and with his marriage I am not mistress of his home. Just as in ’07 I will have to create a new routine.”
“I would like to assist you.”
Elizabeth sat very still and unabashedly stared at Lady Maria.
“Why?”
Lady Maria had to stifle a laugh at the blunt question, she could see the upcoming season being very diverting.
“We have maintained a very regular correspondence for two years now. You have met my brother and his wife, and my sister and her husband. You are a gentle-born young lady who is the niece of Sir Edward Gardiner, one of the country’s newest baronets. And before you tie yourself in knots trying to figure out how to ask the question, yes it does make a difference. Not in how I think of you, how I treat you, but in how you will be perceived, judged, by the rest of society.”
“You will not attempt to match-make?”
Peals of laughter.
“Elizabeth, sorry may I call you Elizabeth? You are a very pretty young woman, who when she genuinely smiles is not just pretty but beautiful. You will capture the attention of men without any assistance from me. What I will endeavour to do is provide you with information about those men that call. I will tell you of the known rakes, and those of poor morals.”
Elizabeth chuckled.
“What did I say that was so funny?”
“I live in my uncle’s house on Gracechurch Street in the ward of Bridge. You can smell the Thames when standing outside the front door. I do not expect many callers.”
“We will discuss that later. Will you allow me to act as your sponsor in society this season? You could have a presentation to Queen Charlotte.”
Elizabeth’s face failed to hide her horror at the prospect.
“Let us hope that last one does not come to pass.”
She contemplated what Lady Maria proposed. Did she really want to go through all that scrutiny? But she had to build a life outside of Gracechurch Street.
“I will allow you to assist me, as long as your introductions include meetings with ‘ladies of letters’ not just social occasions.”
Lady Maria Leonard smiled broadly.
“I can agree to that.”
Elizabeth’s initial smile faded as she thought of a fly in the ointment, two flies actually.
“How will you introduce me?”
“How do you mean? You looked worried.”
“Just as back in our initial meeting two years ago, I should be completely honest with you. My parents, although flawed, are not a problem, especially as they will not be in town. Neither will my two oldest sisters cause any problems. However, my youngest two sisters are.”
She stopped, trying to find the right words.
“There is a good chance they could ruin the family name. And soon.”
“And your parents’ response to this threat?”
“Indifference and mocking from my father combined with encouragement from my mother.”
Elizabeth’s blush was worse than when describing the words she overheard.
“Would it be fair to say it is more likely it is a matter of when not if?”
A shame-faced nod.
