Penelope straightened and returned the lady’s gaze

with as much forthrightness as she could muster, given

the rapid turn of events.

“The word of a Swanburne girl is as solemn an oath

as anyone could require,” she replied. “Have no fear on

that account. I accept.”

And with that, they both affixed their signatures

to the bottom of the letter of terms that Lord Ashton

had prepared. Penelope hardly thought this necessary,

but Lady Constance assured her that signed, binding

contracts were the custom in these parts, a charming

formality which she would not dream of omitting.