Page 48 of Rogue’s Holiday

“More likely they have just left their favorite tavern,” she said, remembering the comely wench who had thrown herself at The Rogue.

“Miss Reynolds, Miss Crockett,” said Sir Robert, tipping his hat. “How fortunate we are to encounter you. Might I ask what brings you two out this afternoon?”

“We are going to Thomas Lulham’s shop to pick up our order of shoes.”

“’Tis a surprise for Chastity’s great-aunt,” Rose informed them. “A pair Chastity designed herself.”

“May we accompany you?” asked the vicomte. “I’d like to see the shoes.”

“Certainly,” said Chastity, noting the fond look the vicomte gave her friend.

Sir Robert’s buckskin overcoat, draped loosely over his broad shoulders, made them appear even larger than when he wore only a tail coat. Beneath the overcoat, he wore a white shirt and neckcloth, a dark green waistcoat, and a black coat and breeches. His black boots, she noted, were unusually scuffed. She wanted to ask if he’d been striding through muddy streets but did not wish to appear rude.

The two men fell in on either side of them.

“I’ve news that should interest you, Miss Reynolds,” said Sir Robert. “The royal yacht is expected to anchor off Brighton late this afternoon.”

“Really?” asked Chastity, delighted.

“Indeed, and we have been invited to dine on the king’s yacht tomorrow.”

Chastity met his hazel gaze, wondering if he would say more. It wouldn’t be the done thing to invite herself. But, oh, how she wanted to go.

“Don’t tease them, Robbie,” said the vicomte, a hint of amusement in his dark eyes. “We have inquired, dear ladies, and been advised you are welcome to accompany us.”

“Oh, Chas!” exclaimed Rose. “Just think! We shall dine with the king on his yacht!”

Chastity beamed her pleasure. “It will be our pleasure to accept your invitation.”

“Good,” said Sir Robert. “I believe several other invitations are being sent out today, including one to your great-aunt.”

They had nearly reached the shoemaker’s when Rose asked, “Is the king’s yacht very large?” Chastity could see the fear in her friend’s eyes for she was not sure she could manage a smaller vessel that might be tossed about by the tide.

“Over a hundred feet on deck,” replied Sir Robert. “The royal yacht is a full-rigged ship, large enough for the king to entertain a fair-sized group of guests for dinner. But a smaller rowing boat will convey us to the yacht.”

“Oh,” said Rose.

“Have no worries,” put in M’sieur Donet. “The trip to the yacht will be short and I will be with you.”

Rose gave the vicomte a warm smile. “Yes, that is a comfort.”

They entered the shop and Chastity asked if the shoes she had ordered were ready.

“I believe your entire order is complete,” said Mr. Lulham. He passed through a curtain that led to the back of his shop and returned with several packages.

Chastity paid the man for his service and opened the package with her name on it. The brown paper unfolded to reveal the orange silk slippers with yellow satin ribbon cross straps. On the toe was an embroidered sunflower. “I do hope Aunt Agatha will like these.”

“Oh, she will,” said Rose. “This may be the loveliest pair you have designed.”

“Do you design men’s boots?” asked Sir Robert.

“My father is the one who designs men’s boots,” said Chastity. “I fear my attempt would not be so masculine as to please the male gender.”

“Alas,” said the vicomte, “that is a loss, for the French do love decorated shoes, be they for a lady or a gentleman.”

“I hadn’t thought of that,” said Chastity, noticing the vicomte’s shawl collar, and his lace-edged cravat. He also wore pantaloons, not breeches, revealed by his low boots. All decidedly French in style. “I shall think on it, M’sieur.”

Pleased with their purchases, Chastity allowed Sir Robert to escort her back to the Steyne. Behind them, absorbed in conversation, walked Rose and the vicomte.