“I declare, I quite love you then!” she exclaimed. “What is he doing, and, oh! when will he return to England?”

Sir Gregory smiled.

“How can I say?” he drawled. “I fear monsieur s’amuse !”

She flirted her fan before her face.

“Dreadful creature!” she cried. “How dare you say such things?”

“Belmanoir?” inquired Lord D’Egmont, twirling his cane.

“Enamoured of the Pompadour, is he not⁠—saving your presence, Lady Lavvy!”

Lavinia let fall her fan.

“The Pompadour! He had best have a care!”