This brilliant young man was music to his ears. He glanced over his shoulder to make sure no flower-named maids were eavesdropping, then lightly clasped a hand on Mr. Benjamin’s.

“I agree,” he conspired, “that this news must be acknowledged in some way. But I am certain they already know.”

He dropped his hands and crossed his arms in [mean] thought.

“What should Mr. Willaby be aware of regarding Rose?”