The cry of outrage from everyone startled her.
“All right, all right, I’ll go,” she said. “Heavens, but you lot place too much faith in me.”
“Too much?” Diana said. “Nonsense. You’re worthy of it. Just stay close to me and everything will be fine. Besides, you’re sure to see some of the ladies you know from your presentation to the queen, or even your dinner. If you get bored with talking to us, you can talk to them—anything to make it appear as if you’re perfectly comfortable at Almack’s. I’ve already asked Lord Foxstead to save his first dance for you, so that will start you off in an enviable position.”
She could already see Geoffrey drawing himself up to protest. “And don’t you even think about trying to forbid it, Duke. Your friend Foxstead will behave. He is a gentleman, after all.”
Geoffrey snorted in obvious disbelief. But he said nothing more.
Diana turned to his mother. “Would you rather stay here until we return? Or should one of us bring you to Grenwood House?”
“No, indeed, it’s far out of the way. I’d rather wait here for your return. I brought a book to read, so I’ll be quite comfy.”
“Very well.” Diana surveyed the rest of them. “Are we ready to invade Almack’s?” When everyone nodded, she said, “Excellent. Our carriages await.”