The Earl of Ice Read Free Page B

each lady and also which gentlemen were in need of securing a wife with a fortune. Diana’s ears always pricked up a little when she heard the Earl of Ice mentioned, but she soon came to realize that only the most determined mothers still considered him a possibility for their daughters, although all acknowledged that he was handsome, wealthy and one of the most eligible bachelors in town.
    The week flew by and soon the girls were struggling to decide which of their new gowns they should wear for their next ball. Diana, being quite small, kept her dress designs simply styled, as bows and frills overpowered her. Caroline, who was taller and had a much more defined figure, could carry the more elaborate styles. In the end, Diana, pretty in cream satin, and Caroline, stunning in a low-cut rose-coloured gown, made a lovely picture. Neither felt envious of the other, both being equally attractive in their very different ways. In fact, it was the contrasting picture they made that often drew people’s attention to them.
    Tonight there was no waiting for their cards to be filled up. Both young ladies were pursued by eager young gentlemen attracted by their beauty and smiling faces. Mr. Oliver Stannington, the Earl of Brockwood’s younger brother, danced with them, and both and he and his friend, Lord Cotson, brought them refreshments. The Earl of Ice was present, but much to Caroline’s relief and Diana’s disappointment did not request a dance. The girls danced nearly every dance and were tired and footsore by the time the carriage to take them home was sent for. Their mothers were very pleased at the attention they had attracted, but as yet, neither girl had met any young man she liked more than another.
    The following morning Diana was awakened by Caroline, who barged into her room full of excitement.
    “You’ll never guess what has just arrived!” Her cousin danced around the room holding two cards aloft.
    “I don’t need to guess because you are going to tell me,” laughed Diana, stretching and sitting up, now fully awake.
    “It’s an invitation to a ball being held by the Earl and Countess of Whittington!” Caroline announced.
    Diana was thrilled. “When is it?” she demanded, leaping out of bed and capturing Caroline’s hands to dance with her.
    The Whittington Ball was considered one of the greatest events of the season. To have secured an invitation was proof that they had been accepted by the highest level of society. The ball was to be held at the end of June at the height of the London season.
    “We must spend the time between now and the ball practicing our dance steps and our manners!” Caroline exclaimed.
    “If you mean our teasing and flirting skills,” replied Diana, “I think you are most definitely right.”
    Caroline assumed a more decorous manner. “Now, Diana, you had best get dressed. We have visits to make today, and this afternoon Lord Cotson and his friend Mr. Straw are taking us to Hyde Park—well, that is, Lord Cotson is taking you and Mr. Straw is taking me. Both requested and obtained permission from our mothers. Oh, it will be such fun!”
    * * *
    Lord Cotson and Mr. Henry Straw drew up outside the house in their respective open barouches at precisely four o’clock. Lord Coston was of medium build with fair hair and light brown eyes. Mr. Straw, tall and loose-limbed, had a head of ginger hair and freckles dusting his face. Diana and Caroline were dressed in readiness and, upon the announcement of the gentlemen’s arrival, needed only to don their cloaks, hats and gloves. The weather was perfect and Lord Cotson with Diana seated beside him led the way to the park, closely followed by Mr. Straw and Caroline.
    Both men were dressed in the latest fashion. Mr. Straw, with his easy grace and open smile, wore dark trousers and coat, whilst the more flamboyant Lord Cotson was resplendent in a black superfine jacket over a peacock-blue waistcoat. Their horses and equipage reflected