“You must tell me all about your family,” the Countess suggested, “but later after you have rested and changed for dinner. I have arranged a party tonight in your honour and afterwards I will take you to Almack’s.”
“Tonight?” Anthea asked breathlessly.
“Why not?” the Countess enquired. “The sooner you are launched into the Social world the better! I have managed to obtain a voucher for you from my dear friend the Princess Esterhazy. I assure you, Anthea, it is very exceptional for a girl to receive one of these much coveted vouchers the moment she arrives in London.”
“I am very grateful, Godmama.”
She thought that the Countess stiffened before saying,
“I have been thinking, Anthea, what you should call me. ‘Godmama’ sounds quite old, almost like ‘Grandmama’, and ‘Aunt’ is nearly as ba
