chapter threeThe Marquis drew his gold watch from his waistcoat pocket.
“It’s time for dinner,” he said sharply. “You must each Ula to be on time.”
“I think,” the Duchess replied, “she is delayed by the new gown I bought her in Bond Street this morning and is hoping you will admire it.”
The Marquis did not answer and the Duchess continued,
“She certainly ‘pays for dressing’, as the servants say. In fact I am sure you are right, Drogo, in your confidence that she will be a sensation when she appears at my reception tomorrow and at the ball you are giving on Friday.”
The Marquis still said nothing, but the Duchess knew that he was listening and after a moment she asked,
“You have heard nothing, I suppose, from Chessington Hall?”
“Why should I?” the Marquis enquired. “After all, what c
