After a lengthy sojourn in Paris, during which he was reported to have danced scandalous attendance on Lady Caroline, he proceeded to attend a series of house parties in various châteaux, all of which were notable for the presence of la belle veuve anglaise, Lady Caroline Daventry. At last, towards the end of October, George received a brief note from Darleston Court informing him that its noble owner had returned and would be perfectly happy to entertain the recipient as soon as might be convenient for him. The note ended: ‘I have invited Carrington as well and hope you will both make a long stay. Christmas if you like! Sorry to have been such a rotten correspondent. Darleston.’ George breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed his lordship had no immediate plans involving Lady Caroline. He resolved to inform his married sister, with whom he had promised to spend Christmas and New Year, that he would be bringing Darleston. Not for anything would he willingly leave his friend alone at that season.
