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“Ah! Did I say gossiping?” She slid Lenora a sly glance. “I meant gathering currency.”

Reluctantly, Lenora smiled.

Nettie said, “If gossip is currency, Godmama must be wealthy enough to open her own bank.”

“I see your family is as warm and wryly amusing as you are,” Amelia said. “When the weather warms up, we should plan an outing.”

“Oh, yes!” Preston said. “Let’s. Do you like mazes? The maze at Hampton—”

“No.” Millie and Lenora said in unison.

Asquith met her gaze. Her cheeks grew hot.

“Did I say something wrong?” Preston asked.

“It’s just...weather.” Millie held out a hand as if to say, what can one do? “The weather always turns as soon as one plans an outing to a distant location.”

“Does anyone know if Madame Tussaud’s waxworks is showing anywhere nearby?” Emily asked. “I, for one, would love to see the Chamber of Horrors.”

“Emily,” Nettie said.

“I know that’s not a ladylike desire, but we are among friends, aren’t we?”

“Friends, yes,” Asquith said. “And friends enjoy meeting. Isn’t that right, Lenora?”

The heat in Lenora’s face spread. She ignored her sisters’ curious glances.

“Chamber of Horrors, eh?” Preston asked.

Emily nodded.

“A young lady should speak her mind,” Preston said to Emily. “At least that’s what I think.”

Amelia cocked a brow. “You think no such thing.”

“Perhaps,” he shot back, “I’ve changed my mind.” He slanted a glance toward Lenora. “I’ve been under better influences of late.”

“Preston,” Lenora chided. She shook her head. “Stop being so droll.”

“Was I being droll?” Preston asked.

Asquith’s scowl deepened.

“Would you look at that carriage dog over there?” Eliza asked. “Looks like he’s guarding the hay. Dogs don’t eat hay.” She turned to Asquith. “Do they?”

Lenora looked from Eliza to Asquith, puzzled by the directness of Eliza’s gaze.

“If you’ll pardon,” Cassie cut in gently, “we must be going. Harbury should be returning from his club in an hour or so. Which way are you headed?”

Preston indicated the direction. “My mother and Lady Asquith are at the shop at the corner.”

“Perfect!” Cassie smiled. “Our carriage is nearby. Might we walk with you?”

“Certainly, your grace,” Preston said.

Cassie smiled indulgently. “Cassandra will do, when in the company of my family.”

“Preston, why don’t you offer the duchess your arm?” Amelia suggested. “Lady Redver and I will walk together.”