Part 61 (1/2)

”Yes, of course you must remember! We were on the terrace--' ” Yes! ”

Polly squeaked, convinced he was about to remind her of every searing detail. She took a deep breath.

”Of course I remember our conversation, sir. I had the particular impression, however, that you did not care for my suggestion!”

Lord Henry turned to look at her. It was a distinctly speculative look.

”You did not find my response to you... friendly?”

Polly blushed with indignation.

”I did not, my lord! Presumptuous, outrageous, but scarcely friendly!”

Lord Henry's shoulders were shaking with suppressed laughter.

”Come now.

Lady Polly! You are severe! Was my company so repulsive to you? ”

Polly was in a dilemma. Modesty required her to lie but she had been brought up to be exceptionally truthful.

”Your behaviour was not that of a gentleman, sir!”

”Ah, true!” Lord Henry smiled whimsically.

”But I find myself rather taken by your proposal. Lady Polly. I have an ardent desire to promote our friends.h.i.+p. Our encounter last night whetted my appet.i.te for it!”

They had reached Brook Street, which was fortunate since Polly was utterly unable to think of a suitable response. Lord Henry kissed her hand.

”If you wish to be persuaded further of my erudition, perhaps you might wish to join me in St James's Square? I have an excellent art collection which you might like to view...” His glance was wicked.

”Unless you are already convinced of my scholars.h.i.+p and good taste?”

”I will accept your word on it,” Polly said, still trying to be severe though tempted to giggle.

”Good day, sir!”

Art collection, indeed! Polly blushed a little as she considered the implications of his teasing invitation. He must consider her a green girl to be caught by that one! Lord Henry grinned and strolled off down the street, with just one provocative look back. Polly was annoyed that he had caught her looking after him.

”There's a likely gentleman,” Jessie opined, looking over Polly's shoulder.

”Aye, and a dangerous one, too! You be careful, madam!”

Polly, who had been thinking exactly the same thing, turned away with studied indifference.

”Oh, nonsense, Jessie! Lord Henry is just a flirt!”

”A flirt!” Jessie was indignant.

”A rake, more to the point! Aye, and you like it, madam!”

Polly did not deign to reply.