Louis-Philippe.”
“I thought it was about King Francis the First.” Wentworth said.
“Hugo was not cautious enough, and the censors found veiled references to our king.” The Frenchman shook his head in consternation, although whether that was due to the censorship or to Hugo’s disrespect, Daniel couldn’t tell.
“I believe I heard about that particular play. It was called ‘ Le roi s'amuse ,’ was it not?” Lady Wilmot furrowed her brow in concentration. “I suppose I could understand the embarrassment of our French neighbors. King Louis-Phillipe had a difficult time of it after being in exile for so many years, so the censors were bound to be overly cautious. From what I recall, King Francis the First was quite the rake. Then again,” Lady Wilmot said with a slight twinkle in her eyes, “our King Henry the Eighth was quite the rake as well at about that same time in history. So the censors finally relented?”
“Not exactly.” Wentworth continued to leaf through the collection of operas. “In order to get around the censors, Verdi changed the location of the story from France to Italy and changed the names of the main characters in the story. Apparently, that made it acceptable, because it was first performed over a year ago in Venice.”
“I attended one of the performances in Venice,” LeCompte interjected, “and it was spectaculaire .” He raised his hand with his fingertips together and then gracefully released them with a flourish. “It will be performed at Covent Garden in a few months.”
“Here? In London?” Lady Wilmot’s voice was slightly breathless. “I simply must see its London debut.” Her eyes lit up with excitement. “I’m sure that everyone will want to attend opening night.”
Daniel finally relaxed. Clearly, the group’s interest in what had transpired between him and Lady Catherine had been diverted by their conversation about Rigoletto . Stumbling upon them alone together had been bad timing, nothing more.
Upon further consideration, Daniel realized that the timing might have been fortuitous. If not for the sound of the approaching footsteps, he would have found it extremely difficult to break free of their embrace.
Why did he find Catherine so blasted tempting? She was unusual. And her response to his kiss had been the most surprising part of the evening.
At first she’d responded in the virginal way he’d expected, but as he deepened the kiss, she'd become gratifyingly passionate. The feel of her, pliant and responsive in his arms, had been more of a temptation than he could resist.
He’d been reckless. Foolish.
Was she suitable? Did she meet his criteria? Perhaps. Was she above reproach? That kiss had been a questionable decision on her part. But then again, the circumstances had been unusual. He shouldn’t judge her on that point. After all, he’d given in to the moment as well. In fact, having a passionate wife could be a pleasant bonus. One he hadn’t anticipated.
Daniel shifted uncomfortably in his chair as he forced his thoughts back to the present and away from the tempting Lady Catherine.
He tried to focus his attention on the conversation continuing around him. Were they still talking about that opera? He inwardly sighed. Yes. Rigoletto .
All things considered, tonight had turned out well. Wentworth’s confidence had reemerged, and he seemed to have made a good impression on the guests.
His thoughts drifted back to Catherine again. She’d mentioned a ride in the park tomorrow. He could arrange a “chance” meeting while she was there. And this time, her sister could serve as a chaperone to provide them with a measure of respectability.
12 - A Ride in the Park
Upon arriving home, Mother sent for Mrs. Evans, their housekeeper. She’d retired for the night but still arrived promptly at the summons. They’d come to rely on her gift with poultices and other home remedies over the years, and she was
Abbi Glines
Violet Vaughn
Mindy Starns Clark
Julie E. Czerneda
Alastair Reynolds
Hannah Ford
Kenneth Robeson
Kim Baldwin, Xenia Alexiou
Josie Brown
Celeste Walker