Licia was still battling an uncharacteristic sadness. Normally she was a bright-spirited person, even though she had so often to deal with Mama in various difficult moods. But now, wearing a new gown only because Aunt Hortense had insisted that if Dezzie had one, she must, too, Licia felt sadly dispirited. Hanging on the duke’s every word was not that difficult for her. But every second in his company she was reminded of the illusionary character of their courtship. And to be the recipient of his present favors only made the future loss of them more painful. But she had determined to do her best for Dezzie. And besides, she hadn’t the courage to end their arrangement before the necessary time. So she stood by his side with a smile as false as the paste diamonds some impecunious ladies were reputed to wear, nodding and chatting, while Mama kept giving her dark looks and pushing Dezzie toward the duke. Finally, to Licia’s great relief, the Duchess of Oldenburgh and Czar Alexander arrived.
