“What will we be seeing this evening?” Susan asked as she slipped on the newdress.
“Stunning. Oh, my. Now I shall have to up my game or you’ll eclipse meentirely.”
Susan blushed, but looked in the mirror and had to admit she did look quitepresentable.
“We’ll be seeingThe Wayward Prince,” at theRoyal. Everyone but everyone is talking aboutit.”
“Will we be going with any other of your friends?” Susanasked.
“I believe Bunny and Sally, and one or two others. I’m not arranging theouting.”
“And shall we dine before?” Susanasked.
“Oh, my dear, oneneverdines before. No, we’ll be going toTallister’sfor supperafter.”
“I’m looking forward toit.”
Susan removed the dress and put on her robe, contemplating a nap beforetea.
Jessica seemed to hesitate but finally asked. “What did you think of SirAllister?”
Susan thought for a moment. It was a probing question and she was not quite sure how to answer. “He was quite handsome, and charming, but there did seem to be an edge to his conversation. I know this is London and there is a way of behaving that is foreign to me, but I sensed that you and he… How shall I putthis?”
“Seem to be more than just friends?” Jessica asked with a wrysmile.
Susan was a little shocked at her openness. “Yes, something likethat.”
Jessica nodded. “It might appear so, but we’re just banter buddies. It amuses us to spar in naughty ways. I assure you it’s quiteharmless.”
“And how does Ronald feel about these flirtyexchanges?”
“He laughs. However, wit is not one of his virtues and, while he might enjoy the show, he’s quite dumb when it comes to participating—even with the most willing of youngladies.”
“Oh, dear, Jessica. I don’t understand London at all. I fear I’ll be too plain and honest for your scintillating friends this evening. Feel free to leave me at home if you think I might ruin theevening.”
“Never. But there’s always one way to avoidembarrassment.”
“And what isthat?”
“Simply saynothing.”
