An Offer From a Gentleman

Lady Whistledown reports that Lady Penwood has discouraged a possible match between Miss Rosamund Reiling and Mr. Philip Cavender, as she wants more than a “mere mister” for her daughter (220). Sophie feels a sense of apprehension as Benedict brings her to his mother’s house, in part because she does not want to see Araminta. She accuses Benedict of kidnapping her. Benedict, for his part, feels like he understands Sophie well now and can usually guess what she is thinking.

Lady Bridgerton no longer lives at Bridgerton House in Grosvenor Square; she has a house in Bruton Street. Benedict insists that Sophie use the front door, as she is respectable, even though she doesn’t act like a housemaid. Benedict introduces Sophie to Lady Bridgerton, who thinks Sophie looks familiar. Lady Bridgerton agrees to hire Sophie as a lady’s maid. Sophie sees the joy that Lady Bridgerton takes in her son, and she feels touched by the love among the family, even as they tease one another. She feels as if she is entering into the family, too.

Benedict’s younger sister, Eloise, who is 21 and unmarried, corners him. Eloise asks Benedict about where he has been. Benedict says that he was recovering from his head cold and has brought the new maid whom their mother has hired.