Follow Your Heart by Barbara Cartland

conscious from his tone that he was extremely worried and she found herself wishing, even before he had finished his story, that Lendi would be able to help him.
    â€œAlice is now nearly eighteen,” the Marquis went on, “and she made her curtsy last month to the Queen at Windsor Castle. She is now undoubtedly the prettiest debutante of the season, but unfortunately she is also the richest.”
    â€œBe mistake,” came in Lendi, “make her unhappy.”
    â€œIt does not make her unhappy at the moment,” replied the Marquis, “but me .”
    Della wondered why and almost as if she had asked the question he said,
    â€œIt was inevitable that Alice should be pestered by fortune–hunters, but although I warned her constantly, it was impossible to keep them away.”
    â€œFortune–hunters,” repeated Lendi. “They clever – and unscrupulous.”
    â€œAnd very determined to get hold of her money,” added the Marquis.
    His voice was harsh.
    â€œThere one in particular – who worry you?”
    â€œI knew you would understand. Yes, there is one and unfortunately Alice finds him attractive. It is not surprising because he is indeed a handsome young man, very glib and he pays her compliments which another man might find embarrassing.”
    â€œYour Lordship think niece – want marry him?”
    â€œOf course that is what she wants,” answered the Marquis. “That is why I feel, Lendi, you are the only person who can prevent it.”
    â€œHow my Lord suggest I do that?”
    â€œAlice is looking forward to having her fortune told and what girl is not? I have been waiting to throw a party at which you will tell the fortunes of everyone present.”
    He made a gesture with his hands.
    â€œYou must be careful not to make it too obvious why you have been asked as the man pursuing Alice is no fool.”
    â€œYou think he feel – you have no reason inviting me to your beautiful house, my Lord.”
    â€œHe would certainly think so, if you came just for Alice. That is why I must organise a party for perhaps ten or fifteen young people.”
    He paused for a moment and continued,
    â€œThose who want their fortune told will be able to go into a special room after dinner, where you will be able to tell them all the wonderful things which are going to happen to them in the future.”
    â€œIf they really wanting to know – ”
    â€œExactly!” agreed the Marquis. “And I know without my telling you that you will realise if Alice is married entirely for her money, she will be disillusioned and miserable, as only a sensitive young woman could be in the circumstances.”
    â€œI understand. I understand. But my Lord, I am a sick woman. Cannot leave bed. As you say be too obvious – Lady Alice come to me and I tell her – she in danger.”
    The Marquis put his hand up to his forehead.
    â€œI was relying on you. What else can I do?”
    â€œI have idea.” Lendi held up one finger. “Someone take my place, do it cleverly. She here – listening to you. She understands – Lady Alice must be saved.”
    As she spoke she pointed at Della.
    As the Marquis looked at her, Della gasped, then as she met the Marquis’s eyes the words she was about to say died on her lips.
    For some reason she could not comprehend she knew she must help him.
    It might be difficult it might be almost impossible, yet it was what she must do.

CHAPTER FIVE
    As the Marquis left, again thanking Lendi for helping him, he raised her hand to his lips.
    Della thought it was very kind of him and she realised how much Lendi appreciated the gesture.
    When he had finally departed Della asked,
    â€œHow can you say I can go in your place? I am sure Mireli would be far better.”
    Lendi shook her head.
    â€œNo, Lady, you live in big houses – know important people. Mireli has yet to learn about them. Very different