Page 22 of The Gentlewoman Author

Mary could hold back no longer. “Certainly, the author meant the story as a diversion rather than a book of instruction.”

“That is just it.” The man with the nasal voice leaned forward. “A novel is for casual entertainment, but it will permeate the minds of the young, dissuade them from obedience to their parents, and convince them to disregard convention.”

“Penelope is active in forming her own future,” Louisa said. “In a world where women have so little freedoms, I admire her for pursuing her happiness.”

“But you would not do such a thing yourself. No well-bred young lady would,” said Miss Barry.

“Perhaps you would not be so bitter a spinster had you taken a risk in your youth.” Louisa’s tone was so blasé that it took a moment for the insult to hit.

Mary held her breath and watched Miss Barry’s face turn as red as the paint on her cheeks. Her hand fluttered to her overwhelming décolletage while Louisa brushed her skirt with commendable nonchalance. Agnes grinned wide enough to split her face. It seemed she had a protégée.

Mary leaned back in her chair, away from the discomfort of the room, catching Mr. Fletcher’s eye as she did so. He lifted a shoulder at her and smiled. His communication, so private, so intimate, fell upon her like a caress. He withdrew his gaze, shifted in his seat, and opened his mouth a time or two, before clenching his jaw together.

“I say, this is a much better party than I expected.” All eyes turned toward Mr. Savage, who had hitherto contributed nothing to the discussion. “I’ve not yet had a chance to finish the book, but I will certainly do so now.”

Mary stared hard at Agnes until she caught her attention. With meaningful eyes, Mary urged Agnes to lead the conversation into a less charged territory. Agnes had a gift for such things, but in that moment, she seemed inclined to allow the tension to marinate.

Instead of helping, Agnes said, “You have spoken few words today, Mrs. Allen. What do you think of this Lady Mary who writes of Bath and has estate in Ireland?”

With a start, Mary understood. Agnes knew the truth, and she wished Mary to confess.

What is universally unbecoming to human nature, cannot sure be less indecent for the gentler sex: it is rather more so.

The Whole Duty of a Woman, An Infallible Guide to the Fairer Sex, 1737