“Yes, she did,” replied Hero. “That’s why her Mama brought her home. She felt dreadfully poorly, and Mrs Milborne told Cousin Jane that the spots came all over her.”
“ No!” said the Viscount, revolted.
“They do, you know,” explained Hero.
“Of course I know that! But Isabella can’t have had the measles! They said she was worn down by the gaieties of London!”
Hero looked surprised at this. “Well, I don’t know why they should have said that, because they must have known it was the measles. Two of the abigails had it as well, besides Mrs Milborne’s page.”
“Good God!” said the Viscount. A grin dispelled the look of shocked dismay on his face. “So that’s why she wouldn’t receive anyone! Poor girl! By Jove, I’d give a monkey to see Severn’s face, if he knew! Deuced romantic fellow, Severn! Wouldn’t like it at all!”
“Is he the Duke?” inquired Hero interestedly.
Gloom descended once more upon her companion. He nodded.
“Is — is she going to marry him, Sherry?”
“It’s my belief he won’t come up to scratch,” replied the Viscount frankly. “Not that I care. My hopes are quite cut-up!”