Page 36 (1/2)

"Howthoughtful of you"

"All Ifor a husband, I would be happy to assist you in any way possible"

Elizabeth just stared at him, unable to believe the irony of thebefore theover, and he was offering to help her find another ," she said to herself "This just can't be happening"

"I don't see why not," he said smoothly "I consider you a friend, and--"

"How on earth could you possibly helpher to even pursue the subject "You're new to the district You couldn't possibly introducetoward him, "you clearly are not well-versed in the art of fashion"

He lurched backward "I beg your pardon!"

"They're perfectly nice clothes, but they are several years past their prime"

"So are yours," he said with a smirk

"I know," she shot back "That's why I need help fro about"

Jaht it back up, trying to suppress a retort The ialore, all in the first stare of fashion, and none of those ridiculous dandified stripes and frills "Why are you so keen tothat it was more important to assess her situation than it was to defend his attire

"That's none of your concern''

"I disagree If I'reed to allow you to help me," she retorted

His eyes fell on the book "Does it have to be ayour pardon?"

"Does it have to be a marquis?" he repeated "Must you have a title? Is it so very important?''