Chapter 4By Christmas, the couple was virtually inseparable, and Percy bowed to the inevitable. He was slightly surprised that it took Hugh until the beginning of February to request a private interview. Entering Percy’s study, Hugh asked Percy’s permission for Araminta’s hand as her closest male guardian with a pretty show of consideration. This impeccable courtesy was countered by Percy’s prior knowledge that Hugh had already been accepted by the lady.
Nevertheless, Percy was impressed by the young man’s attempt at good form, especially with the Havilland reputation remaining shaky at best. Also, as Araminta had already consented, Percy was wise enough not to figuratively step on his forceful sister’s toes and incur the rough edge of her tongue. She would never make such an important de
