“Oh, look, Lord Strong is heading this way, seeking an introduction to you and your sister, I imagine. He inherited no more than two years ago. He is quite the catch, you know.”
A handsome young man who looked to be in his mid-twenties and dressed in the latest fashion approached them.
“Lord Strong, Viscount Dunsmoor,” Helena murmured to herself. She tried to recall any unpleasant information about him, but could find none. “I recall the news of his father's passing. I do hope he has adjusted well to his title.”
“Oh yes, I daresay he has. Since he became a viscount, he has been to London but twice. And only to take his seat in Parliament. Lord Chapman tells me that he is quite a serious young man. I was very gratified that he accepted my invitation, for he has graced very few social events.”
The gentleman himself arrived. Just a few moments after him, Chastity joined them again from her dance.
“Lady Chapman, might I request the honor of an introduction to your friends?”
“Of course, my lord.” Lady Chapman said, she smiled at the newly arrived Chastity and proceeded with the introductions.
“My lord, may I present Lady Helena Ayles and Lady Chastity Ayles.” She turned to the sisters. “Lady Helena, Lady Chastity, may I present Lord Strong, Viscount Dunsmoor.”
They exchanged bows and curtsies.
“Good evening, ladies. It is an honor to make your acquaintance.” He smiled almost shyly at Chastity. “Might I have the pleasure of dancing with you, Lady Chastity?”
Chastity looked at Helena discreetly, who, in turn, nodded just as discreetly.
“I would be happy to dance with you, Lord Strong,” Chastity replied with a smile.
“I thank you.” Lord Strong bowed. “And have you ladies been enjoying the evening?”
“Indeed, sir. This being my first ball, I find it extremely enjoyable.”
“She has danced every dance, my lord.” Lady Chapman said with a proud smile.
“I am not surprised to find you the most popular lady tonight, Lady Chastity.”
“And why is that, sir?” Helena asked, looking at him in an assessing way.
“Well…” Lord Strong seemed taken aback by the question. He shuffled his feet and looked at Chastity. “Well, because of your beauty and charm, Lady Chastity.”
Chastity gave her sister a sharp look, then smiled at Lord Strong.
“You flatter me, my lord.”
“Indeed, I do not.” He looked quite serious, “I speak plainly.”
“But you are indeed correct. My lord,” Lady Chapman quickly added. “Chastity is quite popular tonight, if I am not mistaken, you were just given one of her last two dances tonight.”
Chastity blushed. Lord Strong smiled.. A friend called to him, and he made his excuse.
“I look forward to dancing with you tonight, Lady Chastity.” He bowed and sent her another shy smile.
Chastity smiled widely at her sister, clearly delighted with her successful night. Chuckling, Helena smiled at her as well.
Very soon, Chastity’s next dance partner went to their group to claim her for the quadrille. Helena was watching their progress towards the dance floor when a gentleman stopped before her and Lady Chapman.
“Good evening, Lady Helena.”
It took Helena a moment, for she was focused on her sister and her dance partner, but she finally recognized him as an acquaintance, Mr. Addison.
“A good evening to you, Mr. Addison.”
“Might I have the pleasure of this dance, my lady?”
