Waltzing With The Earl. Catherine Tinley

who is this young lady?’ Lady Annesley turned her intelligent gaze to Charlotte.

      ‘This is Miss Charlotte Wyncroft. Her mother was my husband’s cousin.’

      Lady Annesley started, then smiled broadly. ‘Then you are Sir Edward’s daughter! I did not know you were in England. Is your father with you? How is the old rogue? Is he still breaking hearts in Vienna?’

      ‘He is now breaking hearts in Paris, if I am not mistaken.’ Charlotte smiled.

      Lady Annesley laughed. ‘I do not doubt it. So you are Maria’s little daughter, who was born in Portugal. Well, a fine young lady you have become. What an elegant dress. Never say this was made by a London modiste.’ She studied Charlotte’s stylish walking dress—a figured muslin with embroidered trim, complete with matching spencer.

      ‘No, indeed. It was made by Madame Diebolt, an émigrée in Vienna. All the ladies compete for her best work—I do declare she has us all under her control.’

      ‘She is clearly a genius. Such stitch-work. Such a cut. And you wear it with style, Miss Wyncroft. How long do you stay in London?’