Post by Thomas Tawney on Nov 27, 2022 20:38:41 GMT
words • tagged @cressidacowper • credits The private ball was almost as prestigious as a dinner invitation. But it was a far better place to seek out a potential partner. The opportunity to dance opened up a chance to show off and flaunt one's desirability as a partner beyond stilted conversation. It was also a place for the host to show off wealth and fashionability. And in a place such a London, it was very important to be seen as wealthy and fashionable. The beeswax candles still had a ways to go to be burnt down, and it promised a long evening. The cotillion started off the night, and Thomas enjoyed the company of a pretty young woman whose family came from Jamaica. They were evenly matched in skill, and to onlookers, they appeared as fine a couple as any. The earl still hadn't made his intentions clear regarding Lady Caroline, though he knew he'd have to say something one way or another before much longer. Not if he wanted to avoid looking like he was stringing her along. He sat the second dance out, and the frozen lemon punch served as a refreshment was just the thing to revive some energy after a dance. He wore his scarlet army jacket, and with only a couple other officers, he stood out sharply amid the more muted frock coats of the other gentlemen. Though, if he planned on sitting out the next dance, fate was not on his side. Word had once again gotten around that there was an eligible earl in attendance, and Thomas found himself being introduced to one young lady or another. "Lady Cowper, Miss Cowper, what a pleasant surprise. I didn't realize you were tonight. What a pleasant surprise." It was almost easier to find things to say when he'd already been introduced to the young lady in question, and ever the gentleman, he remained polite and agreeable in nature. |
| Please save for me some gallantry that will echo when I'm gone |
