Chapter 6

“How strange,” Lady Bayard laughed. “That’s just what Mr. Esmond said.”

“Indeed.” Matthias barely managed to keep his tone one of casual interest.

“Very strange indeed,” Lady Bayard continued. “We’ve had the stand for a year or so, but I always found it rather dull. It seemed like just the thing to set off my new bowl, but all anyone seems to notice is the stand.”

All the ladies at the table hastened to assure her that the bowl was the loveliest ever seen. Then the conversation turned to the newest crop of young ladies coming out this Season.

Matthias made appropriate noises whenever necessary, but his attention was focused inward, on plans for the next day. In addition to securing the globe stand, he would have to speak to his man-of-affairs and set him to gathering all possible information about Clarence Esmond.

* * * *

“Lovely,” Charlotte smiled as Violet reached the bottom of the stairs. “Doesn’t she look lovely, Nicky?”