There was a seat almost hidden by a great arch of honeysuckle. The Earl knew as Calista sat down that it would be impossible for them to be seen by anyone who was not directly in front of them.
The lake was an enchantment of silver and on the other side stretched the Parkland with stags clustered at the foot of the trees.
In the moonlight it was easy to see Calista’s face and the Earl, with a faint smile on his lips, said as he looked at her,
“Is not the fact that we are alone here together already somewhat compromising? Could it not play directly into your mother’s hands?”
“Mama has taken her usual drops of laudanum, ”Calista answered, “and will be quite oblivious to anything we are doing at this particular moment.”
“What did you want to say to me?”
“I want to tell you to be very ca
