And yet he knew if he was honest that in the Social world in which he moved few girls had any choice as to whom they married.
When they emerged from the schoolroom, it was accepted that the sooner their parents arranged for them to be taken up the aisle the better.
It was also taken for granted that the greater the matrimonial catch, the more admirable the maternal instinct had been.
“I can only say,” he said aloud, “that your sisters have been very unfortunate and I can understand that you have no wish to emulate them.”
Aldora made a little movement with her head as though she acknowledged that he was accepting what she had told him.
Then she said,
“And now, as you are so keen to know the truth, I will tell you why I have no intention of marrying you.”
“I am listening,” the Duke re
