CHAPTER NINE“I thought we were to drive in Hyde Park this afternoon,” Clarinda said to the Dowager, as they set off in an open carriage from Berkeley Square.
“That is what I had intended,” the Dowager replied, “but I had a note this morning from the Duchess of Devonshire asking us to tea this afternoon. Her Grace was so pressing that I thought it would be discourteous not to accept her hospitality.”
“I am delighted you did,” Clarinda answered, “I am much looking forward to seeing Devonshire House.”
“You will find it a page out of history. The Devonshires have played their part in this country’s affairs for so many generations that Devonshire House has become the focal point of every important political and national event.”
“I noticed the Duchess at Carlton House,” Clarinda said. “She i
