Always Jenny and Kate ushered Louisa into their wardrobe room and insisted that she select something different to wear. That morning Louisa stood in the confectioner’s shop, studying all the varied offerings in the display case, trying to decide which she should select. It was the first time in days that she’d worn her own clothing in public, something that had been worn on more than one occasion. She drew comfort from the familiar. And dearly appreciated that she had a few hours to herself. Last night Louisa had accompanied Jenny to a concert at the Royal Albert Hall. The Duke of Pemburton had been Jenny’s escort. Louisa had always thought highly of the duke, had actually encouraged Jenny to welcome his suit. By evening’s end, Louisa had decided that marriage to Pemburton would bore Jenny to tears and leave her permanently bent over as she strived to hear the man’s mumbling conversations. Why could he not speak clearly, succinctly, and a bit more loudly? He was only forty for goodness’ sakes.
