The Cinderella Debutante by Elizabeth Hanbury

Author:Elizabeth Hanbury [Hanbury, Elizabeth]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
ISBN: 9781908629067
Publisher: E-scape Press Limited
Published: 2012-09-21T07:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eight

Secret Plans

That evening they attended their first assembly at Almack’s. Lady Sinclair had welcomed news of the Richmond outing, as had Belinda who viewed it as a chance to flirt with Lord Devlyn. She was in high spirits as they arrived at the Assembly Rooms in King Street well before 11 o’clock, after which time the doors were closed.

Lucy recalled Lord Devlyn’s views on Almack’s and found she agreed with them. The Great Room – over one hundred feet long and decorated with gilt columns and enormous mirrors - was opulent but its other attractions were few. Only country-dances and quadrilles were allowed and the refreshments consisted of weak tea, stale cake and bread and butter.

Yet it remained the most exclusive club in London. For Lady Sinclair, attending Almack’s was a long-held ambition. The ballroom and supper room were crowded and Lucy was intrigued to see so many of the ton under one roof, but she kept her observations on their attire, manners and partners to herself. They were under scrutiny here more than anywhere. But Belinda seemed determined to be outspoken and grew worse as the evening went on.

“I never saw anything as ugly as Charlotte Covington’s gown, although I daresay it would look a great deal more pleasing on me. She has the wrong figure for it,” said Belinda loudly, observing that young lady across the ballroom.

“Pray lower your voice!” urged Lucy.

“But it is tiresome to be always considering one’s behaviour. Even Mama lectured me on how to go on this evening, but soon I shall behave just as I please. No one will dare criticise me when I am a married to a leader of the ton.” She gave a trill of laughter. “La, they will probably say I am setting a new fashion for any odd thing I do! How I shall enjoy being above people like Charlotte Covington - she has been odiously condescending toward me all evening!”

Lucy bit back a barbed retort; it would be unwise to fan Belinda’s temper into flames in these surroundings. Her mood was already fractious. She had been engaged for every dance yet some of her beaux did not appear as enamoured as before. Arthur Baillie and Sir Jocelyn Gardner remained among the group following Belinda slavishly, but their numbers had dwindled.

Mr. Brindley-Soames had drifted away and was now expected to offer for Lady Charlotte Covington, a rumour which explained Belinda’s malicious comments.

Lucy was simply pleased not to be a wallflower. She was not rich or beautiful, but gentlemen had hurried to dance with her and several were left disappointed when her card was full. She was astonished to overhear Lady Jersey remark that the Hampshire Heiress would be well-served if she were to be ousted from society’s favour by her step-sister. It seemed Lucy had unwittingly gained the approval of the main patroness.

Lady Fanthom, the person who had made it possible for them to attend Almack’s, was also present this evening with her husband. He seemed good-natured and jovial, but intimidated by his formidable spouse.

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