To her surprise, he said instead,
“I should have thought that there was no hurry, but if that is what you want – ”
“I am only thinking of you,” the Countess said softly, “and I had not realised until now how many relations we both have, all of whom are determined to have their pound of flesh!”
“They are certainly making sure of that!” the Duke agreed. “I have had a dozen letters from cousins I did not even know existed who wish to be invited to stay.”
“There you are!” the Countess exclaimed. “George and I have had exactly the same experience. I think if I hear one more tiresome woman asking me if I really think you will be happy, I shall scream!”
The Earl looked up from the newspaper he was reading.
“They could hardly expect you to say that the bride and bridegroom would be unhappy!”
