Death Comes to London Read Online Free Page B

perhaps you might just keep me company? I’d appreciate having a second opinion about my selection.”
    “I’ll certainly do that, but I must warn you that my opinions are rather too forthright for most people.” Robert hesitated. Broughton’s matter-of-fact manner made him sound rather like he was about to pick a new horse at Tattersalls rather than a bride. “I have little to no understanding of the ton and the ramifications of choosing one young lady over another.”
    “Which is exactly what I need. I’d rather have a military man by my side than anyone else.”
    Robert put down his brandy glass. “Then if you insist, I’ll accompany you. I can hardly leave a fellow officer out in the open without adequate cover.”
    He suspected he had weeks of dawdling his heels while he waited for his audience with the Prince Regent. Staying in Town would also give him the opportunity to see how the Harrington ladies and Sophia Giffin were dealing with London and perhaps reconnect with some of his old acquaintances.
    “There is one young lady I rather like. She is remarkably forthright.”
    He realized Broughton was still talking. “And who might that be?”
    “Miss Chingford. Do you know of her?”
    Robert took a deep breath. “Miss Penelope Chingford?”
    “Yes.”
    “Then I know her quite well. We were betrothed, but we mutually decided we wouldn’t suit.”
    “Oh good Lord! What a remarkable coincidence!” Broughton’s smile faded. “She hasn’t mentioned you by name, but she did indicate that she’d been horribly let down by someone.”
    “That would be me,” Robert said drily. “I had the temerity to be wounded and was no longer the fine physical specimen she required to appear at her side.”
    “That’s hardly fair.”
    “She had a point. I have no desire to continue my career in the military, or become a leading light of the ton, so we definitely would not have suited. It was brave of her to see that.” He paused. “I’m sure she would be far happier with a man such as you.”
    Broughton didn’t look convinced as he finished his brandy and then rose to his feet. “Shall we eat here? We can further discuss our plans. I have to escort my family to Almack’s this week.”
    “I understand that it is still considered the best place to find an eligible mate.”
    “Which is why the female members of my family insist I accompany them. At least if you come with me I can look forward to some decent conversation and maybe a hand of cards.”
    Robert rose, too, and picked up his cane. “As long as you don’t require me to dance, Broughton, I am completely at your service.”

Chapter 3
    L ucy tried not to stare too much at the other guests arriving at the ball, but it was rather difficult. She smoothed down the skirt of her amber silk gown and checked the neckline of her bodice. It was a new dress and she’d felt rather fashionable and daring until she’d seen what the other ladies were wearing.
    “Come on, Lucy!”
    Sophia and Mrs. Hathaway were already ahead of her, and she hurried to catch up. She spotted her uncle David and then her aunt, and headed toward them. It was hard to see Anna or Julia, who appeared to be surrounded by a crowd of young men.
    Sophia elbowed her. “I knew Anna would cause a stir. I’ll wager she’s filled her dance card twice over.”
    Lucy hoped so. Anna deserved every opportunity to marry successfully and well, not just because she was beautiful, but because of her sweet, loving nature.
    “Ah, there you are, Lucy.” Her aunt smiled and beckoned her forward. “Anna was asking where you were. She and Julia have been very popular this evening.”
    “Lucy!” Anna turned away from her group of admirers and came over to grasp her sister’s hands. “I was wondering what had become of you.”
    “Sophia’s little dog, Hunter, was unwell, so we had to ensure he was settled before we were able to leave.”
    “Oh dear, is he all right now?”
    “He’s fine. We