Derek thought it best to withdraw from society until the bruises on his face healed and the furor over the embarrassing handbills died down. He had spent the last several days indoors, reading and catching up on some correspondence. He was looking forward to heading out today to view the Elgin Marbles with his cousin. The marbles had originally decorated the Parthenon in Greece, but Lord Elgin brought them to England.
Surprised to find himself the first to arrive at the breakfast table, Derek filled his plate. When a servant entered the room to refresh the warming trays, he inquired after the marquess.
“He has not yet come downstairs,” the servant answered.
Derek frowned. “We planned to go out this morning. It’s not like him to be late.”
“I will get a message to him, sir.”
Derek fini
