CHAPTER FOURThe Duke was so excited at the thought of his party that he retired to his study to compile a list of guests.
Mrs. Winston decided to take a nap before dinner, although it was rather late in the day to do so.
De Burge did not announce his intentions, but Mrs. Winston was determined to give him no chance to savour Madelina’s company alone.
So she demanded that Madelina also retire.
“No doubt we will be seeing you at dinner,” Mrs. Winston remarked frostily to de Burge.
“No doubt,” de Burge replied, equally frosty.
It had become torture now to be in his presence, yet Madelina cast a longing look his way. Darkness had fallen and she could not help but admire the noble shape of his head in the moonlight from the window.
Entranced, she was unaware of the Duke at her side until
