“Oh… Well, then, I shall need to rely on Harry for advice.”
At that point, the orchestra began to play again. Percy asked, “Then shall we have our dance? I promised Maria a dance or two, so I best get our dance out of the way first.”
Anna did not like what appeared to be a dismissal. “Well, grant me no big favors, Percy. If you would rather dance with Maria, then do so.”
She turned to leave, but he took hold of her arm and turned her back toward him.
“Now. Now. No need to be sensitive. I want very much to dance with you, Anna. After all, you are my special friend, are you not?”
That pleased Anna very much and she allowed herself to be led to the dance floor.
* * *
Harry ended up escorting Nora back to the salon, and after seeing that she was seated at her table, he went to Maria.
“Are you in need of any assistance?” he asked and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Your evening has gone very smoothly, and everyone seems to be having a grand time.”
Maria had to laugh. “With great assistance from Aunt Agatha, I notice. It appears she has become the center of the after-dinner party. There are many less people dancing and many more gathered around her.
Harry thought for a moment. “Did you know she was coming for a visit?” he asked.
“Not at all. We were having tea and suddenly she just showed up with her… friend.”
“She did not write saying she was coming for a visit?”
Maria chuckled. “Not at all. But, of course, we would never send her away.”
“Never.” Harry then asked with some curiosity, “And who exactlyisthis Mr. Oakley?”
“She says he is her travel companion. However, I suspect there is more going on between them than just travel.”
“Hmm. After this evening is over, we might want to have a serious conversation with her.”
“My thoughts, exactly.”
The first dance had ended, and Percy came to claim his dance with Maria. As they were leaving, Harry caught sight of Miss Fitzwalker sitting alone at her table and smiled. The young lady was very charming, and he decided she needed to be asked to dance, so, went over to her.
“Miss Fitzwalker, would you honor me with this next dance?” he asked.
“I should be delighted,” she said, smiled and rose when he offered his hand.
They went to the dance floor and began theBanoose,a circle dance for two couples. Harry thought Miss Fitzwalker a lively dancer—energetic and light of step. They had no opportunity for further conversation during the dance, but after it was over, Harry asked, “Might I offer you an after-dinner cordial?”
“I do appreciate a good cognac. I am not too fond of those sweet ladylike drinks that most people think we enjoy.”
“I have just the thing…” He led her to the table were Daniels was serving drinks.
“Two of my special cognac, please, Daniels.”
“Your Lordship.” He reached under the table and pulled out the Earl’s special favorite. He poured and handed them the glasses.
“Cheers,” Nora said.
“Cheers.”
As Harry was leading Nora back to her table, he caught sight of Anna, he realized he had promised her a dance and wished to go to her next. But back at Nora’s table she remained standing and asked, “And how do you relax after working with your cattle all day?”
“I enjoy fly-fishing. And, sometimes in the evenings, I create my own flies. It relaxes me.”
