Lady Frederic was sitting alone at one of the smaller tables, reading a copy of the ship’s newspaper, City of New York Gazette. He slid into a chair across from her.“Morning, Mother. How are you feeling today?”“Well enough to eat a little toast, thank you.” She tapped the paper. “You’re the subject of curiosity.”“What do you mean?”Lady Frederic read the story aloud. “‘A certain saloon passenger, whose story bears a passing resemblance to that of Little Lord Fauntleroy, has excited much conversation regarding his romantic fancy. Which shipboard maiden will he favor? City of New York scuttlebutt says it’s too soon to tell’.”Wesley made a sound of disgust. “Who would want to read that tripe?”“Don’t be so stodgy! There’s little else to do on these voyages besides gossip. It helps distract people from seasickness and boredom.”“You say that now, but wait until you’re the subject of a silly story.”His mother giggled. “I’ll be rather disappointed if I’m not.”“Well, I’m happy to report I’ve something better to do than gossip.
