Late for the Wedding by Amanda Quick Page B

expensive tailor, but the overall effect was nearly identical to the effect that Anthony’s tailor achieved. Perhaps that was because neither man depended on his clothes for the impression he made, Emeline thought. Each of them radiated a certain forcefulness of personality that would have been obvious even if both dressed in rags.
    At that moment Dominic straightened away from the wall and inclined his head to Priscilla and Emeline.
    “Ladies,” he said, “what a pleasure to see you here today. You are both in excellent looks.”
    “Mr. Hood.” Priscilla glowed. “You did not mention that you would be attending Professor Kirk’s lecture today.”
    “Science is a hobby of mine,” he said laconically. His eyes met Anthony's. There was no mistaking the challenge in them. “Do you claim the same expertise in chemistry and related matters as you do in art and antiquities, Sinclair?”
    “No,” Anthony said brusquely. “I have not made a close study of science.”
    “I see,” Dominic drawled. “Perhaps that is for the best. Comprehension of the principles of electricity, astronomy, and the like requires a mind that is trained in logic and reason. Science is quite different from art and antiquities in that it is not subject to the whims of fashion, taste, and emotion. It follows the laws of nature instead.”
    Emeline felt Anthony stiffen angrily. She hastened to take charge of the conversation.
    “I thought today’s lecture was particularly enlightening,” she said quickly. “Especially the last demonstration, with the model volcano.”
    “Positively exhilarating,” Priscilla declared.
    “It was entertaining.” Dominic shrugged. “I will grant you that. But when you come right down to it, I’m afraid Professor Kirk is more showman than chemist.”
    Priscilla frowned slightly. “What do you mean, Mr. Hood?”
    Dominic switched his attention to her. “I am currently working on a new formula for fireworks explosives that I assure you would produce effects far more spectacular than those Kirk created with his silly volcano.”
    Priscilla’s eyes widened. “You have your own laboratory, sir?”
    “Yes.”
    “But that is wonderful,” Priscilla breathed. “What instruments and apparatus do you own, if I may ask?”
    Dominic hesitated, looking torn. Emeline got the distinct impression that he’d had another goal in mind when he had intercepted them at the door. She thought it best to keep pushing him in this other direction.
    “Indeed, Mr. Hood,” she said, “this sounds very intriguing. Please tell us about your laboratory equipment.”
    “I possess the usual assortment,” he allowed finally. “A microscope, an electrical machine, telescope, a balance, some chemical apparatus.”
    “Your very own electrical machine.” Priscilla was clearly dazzled. “You are extremely fortunate, sir. I would give anything to possess a properly equipped laboratory.”
    Emeline felt a small rush of curiosity. “Can you create little balls of fire that fly about, the way Professor Kirk did today?”
    “Certainly. Kirk’s lightning show was no more than a simple trick.” He paused, glanced at Priscilla, and then smiled very deliberately at Emeline. “I can arrange some demonstrations that I think you would find even more exciting than those Kirk performed for you this afternoon.”
    “I would love to see them,” Priscilla said quickly.
    “It does sound intriguing,” Emeline agreed. “I must admit, I have not taken a great interest in science until recently, but Mr. Kirk’s lectures have been quite stimulating.”
    Anthony’s jaw hardened. “Out of the question. The two of you cannot possibly go to Hood’s lodgings unaccompanied. You both know that very well.”
    Priscilla looked crestfallen. “I wonder if I could persuade Mama to accompany us.”
    She did not sound hopeful, Emeline thought.
    “I doubt that Lady Wortham would care to spend a morning viewing science demonstrations,” Anthony said