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“I have recovered from my months in London. According to my butler, there are a large number of both public and private events scheduled for the next two months. I will make the effort to attend at least one every week, but probably not many more. I will enquire as to who has been invited, who is in town, and make my determination then.”

He raised a quizzical eyebrow.

“I felt hounded by the impecunious at the end of the season. I wish to enjoy my summer, not have to fend off intrusive and ill-mannered questions. I saw you at several events but was unable to shake off the more persistent of those who crowded around me.”

“I was busy for much of the season, stationed as I was out at Hounslow Heath, and unable to attend many events. That you felt hounded by such men is.”

He stopped.

“I was about to descend into cliché. Let me state that you should not have had to suffer such insults.”

He carefully framed his follow-up question.

“There was nothing that was enjoyable?”

Elizabeth laughed, although at herself.

“My whinging cavalierly punctured. Do not apologise Colonel, I was aware that I was whinging. The truth is there was much that was enjoyable about the season. And not every dance partner was mining for gold. Although on some nights, it definitely felt like it. Part of the challenge of my first season was I rarely had the chance the focus on an individual, I was too busy navigating the event.”

She saw him look confused.

“I am not being clear. The demands of my position, my entry into Society, often overshadowed the specific events, and the individuals in attendance. My late husband has been dead for more than two years, but I am conscious of upholding the Napier name.”

“I can see the distinction. Was there, is there, no one that could assist you?”

“Sadly not. It is something that I am actively searching for at present. The title Social Protector seems a little overblown, but it would be good to have someone to keep the worst of the rakes and fortune hunters at bay. Enough of my travails in society. What can you tell me about your life in the Cavalry? Your mother has passed on the bare essentials.”

Richard had to stop himself scoffing, at least his mother had mentioned him. He talked, very broadly, and in a manner suitable for a Lady, of his campaigns in Spain. Much needed to be glossed over but he was able to provide colour to some of the main battles on the Peninsula.

They had eaten while they talked, and the conversation had flowed with nary a pause. Both Elizabeth and Richard had enjoyed their time together. Harriet sat impassively, already preparing her questions for the carriage ride home. As they prepared to depart, she settled the two bills quietly and discreetly. As they walked over to the carriage all of Elizabeth’s staff were surprised at her next words.

“Would you like to visit Napier Hall Colonel? I have been riding the grounds of the estate, and would welcome the company.”

“I would be delighted Lady Napier. Shall we say the day after tomorrow?”

The staff tried not to look at each other. Lady Napier had invited a gentleman to call on her?

Chapter 27

Harriet did not say anything, she knew that Elizabeth would want to talk.

“I needed to break out of my shell.”

It was all she said until they had returned to her study.

“I think you caught everyone by surprise. Including the Colonel.”

A rueful smile was Harriet’s only response.

“He was polite, charming without overstepping the mark and did a good job of listening. And yes I have invited him to the Hall, but I am sure Mr. Jones will have the staff keeping an eye on the gentleman. But I recall with pleasure the one Ball where we were able to dance together. It was the Supper Set, and he escorted me to supper afterwards.”

Her smile faded.

“His older brother, Viscount Stonehaven, imposed himself by sitting with us at supper. It was the first time I had met him, and he did not make a good impression. The Colonel and I had been enjoying ourselves, like today mainly talking of military matters and politics. Once the Viscount turned up, it all felt more performative, and the conversation turned to the bland and tedious.”

She looked at her secretary and friend.

“There is no hidden agenda, and as back during the season, I enjoyed today’s conversation, unlike nearly every other occasion in London. Do I know what I am doing?”