“It is a very great pleasure,” the Duke replied.
The McCraig touched Shimona on the shoulder and smiled at her.
“I shall look forward to our talk tomorrow.”
He walked across the salon with his shoulders back and his head held high while Alister hurried after him to escort him to the foot of the staircase.
The Duke and Shimona were left alone.
“You have been very clever with him,” the Duke said approvingly.
“I think he is a very charming old man,” Shimona answered, “and so interesting.”
“Were you really interested in his tales of Scotland? Or was that part of the act?”
“Of course I was interested!” Shimona replied indignantly. “Who could fail to be?”
“And you enjoyed visiting the House of Commons?”
“It was thrilling! I have imagined so often what it was like, but hearing the speec
