Page 82 of Honor Requires

Lady Matlock smiled. “That is no small recommendation.”

“Indeed not,” Jane said. “They danced, of course—the count with Miss Halstead for the second set, and later with several others. I observed him closely—one could not help it—and he carries himself with such composure. There is nothing forced in his manner.”

Elizabeth nodded faintly, though her thoughts remained distant.

“And to know they live at Ashcombe House,” Jane added. “Directly across from us. Such a fortunate circumstance.”

“Fortunate indeed,” Lady Matlock said. “It is not every day that one gains so distinguished a neighbor.”

Lord Matlock leaned back in his chair. “I am told,” he said, “that it is only a matter of time before Prinny takes notice.”

Jane’s eyes widened. “Truly?”

“It would be only proper,” he stated. “A foreign dignitary of rank, settled in London—Carlton House will not remain indifferent to it for long.”

Lady Matlock inclined her head. “Quite so. It reflects well upon the country to extend such courtesies.”

Elizabeth set down her cup. The conversation wearied her.

“They must be very important indeed,” she said.

Jane smiled. “I believe they are. And—I have taken the liberty of inviting them to tea.”

Elizabeth glanced at her. “Have you?”

“Yes,” Jane said, a touch of eagerness in her tone. “It seemed only right, given that they are our neighbors—and that Bramley has already made their acquaintance.”

Lady Matlock looked pleased. “An excellent decision.”

“I hope they will accept,” Jane added.

“I have no doubt they will,” Lord Matlock said. “Men of that sort understand the value of proper introductions.”

Elizabeth inclined her head, though she did not speak further on the subject.

“I am sorry you were unable to attend,” Jane said, her expression comforting. “You would have found it very interesting.”

“I do not doubt it,” Elizabeth replied. She did not add that she had found herself quite sufficiently occupied elsewhere.

“I thought of you often,” Jane said. “Particularly when Miss Halstead spoke of her dance with the count—she said he was most attentive, though not inclined to unnecessary conversation.”

Elizabeth’s lips curved. “A rare quality.”

Jane laughed. “Indeed.”

There was a brief pause before Jane added, “You must meet him.”

Elizabeth did not immediately respond. “I shall do as I am able,” she said at last.

Jane seemed satisfied with that.

At that moment, the door opened, and Bramley entered, his manner brisk but cheerful. He crossed at once to Jane and bent to kiss her cheek.

“My dear,” he said warmly.

Jane smiled at him. “You are late.”

“Only somewhat,” he returned, before greeting his parents with respectful ease. “Mother. Father.”