“It would be a great pity,” she said slowly, “if after pleasing your Lordship tonight, we disappointed you tomorrow.”
“I am quite certain you will not do that,” the Earl replied, “and anyway let’s say that it is a risk I am prepared to take.”
Now he was definitely smiling and, as she thought that it annoyed her, she said,
“Very well, I agree to do what your Lordship wishes, but I would still like to retire now.”
“Then I will allow you to do so,” the Earl answered, “but before you go will you agree to sing once again for my friends, who are feeling somewhat upset at enjoying so little of your company? I would be extremely grateful if you would oblige me.”
He looked at D’Arcy Archer as he spoke and Ilouka knew that without saying so he would be ready to pay for the extra song.
“It will
