She spoke hesitatingly and after a moment the Duke asked,
“I think it would be best for you to extend your horizons.”
“I understand what you are saying to me,” Alvina replied, “and I know how – ignorant and how foolish you must – think me, but it would be different if – Mama were with me – or even if I had a father I could rely on for guidance and – to prevent me from making mistakes.”
She made a little gesture with her hands that was somehow pathetic.
As she spoke, the Duke thought of the conversation that had taken place at the Countess of Jersey’s dinner party.
He remembered that, although it had been sophisticated, witty and undoubtedly amusing, there had been a double entendre in every other word and he now thought a great deal had been said which was very unsuitable for a young
