(FOX's house, night. FOX and MRS. ARMISTEAD sit together by the fireplace in his living room as she does needlework.)
FOX
'Twas the strangest thing, Liz. He bolted out of the room and left us all without warning or explanation. I had never seen him more excited.
MRS. ARMISTEAD
When was this?
FOX
Nearly a fortnight ago. He later mentioned he was going on a short holiday on the 15th, which is tonight, but I can hardly imagine he anticipated it that eagerly.
MRS. ARMISTEAD
Perhaps it is because Mrs. Fitzherbert is in town again. Or maybe it is...
FOX
(Shocked and concerned)
What was that? Did you say Mrs. Fitzherbert has returned to London?
MRS. ARMISTEAD
Were you not aware? I thought everybody was. She just settled into her new house on Pall Mall last week. 'Tis only a short walk from Carlton. I shall have to call one of these days.
FOX
Why not tomorrow? I shall accompany you.
MRS. ARMISTEAD
I would, except she is going out of town tonight too. Is that not peculiar, her leaving town so soon after arriving?
FOX
And on the same day as the Prince...
(Suddenly horrified by his realization that the PRINCE OF WALES and MRS. FITZHERBERT are about to marry, FOX stands and runs to the door.)
MRS. ARMISTEAD
Charles, where are you going?
FOX
To Carlton House!
MRS. ARMISTEAD
Shall I send for your carriage?
FOX
No, madam! I haven't time to spare. I shall walk briskly!
(FOX exits in a rush. Cut to Scene XVI.)
YOU ARE READING
The Drunken Feathers
Historical FictionIn this biographical series that begins in 1784, twenty-one-year-old George, Prince of Wales-- the eldest son of King George III and heir to the British throne-- spends his youth idly by keeping countless mistresses, drinking profusely, and making f...
