Good heavens! Taiemnuit kept her thoughts to herself.

Turning her attention the conciege, she smiled at the woman behind the desk. "Why thank you kindly. My stay may be an extended one. A dear, dear friend from London is expected to arrive within the month. She has asked me to book her a room but I can't be sure of her arrival time. Miss Amelia Godwinson? Of Grosvenor Square?" The name drew a blank. The Honorable Amelia's exploits with a certain major had not yet reached this exotic outpost. In her last letter, Amelia had hinted at the scandal that had required her hasty preparations for a Grand Tour which would include southern climes. "Perhaps you would be so kind as to hold an open-ended registration for her?"

The concierge inclined her head. "Certainly, madame. You mentioned you'd prefer a room with a view? We do have a most delightful room on the second floor which might suit. Spacious with a balcony."

"Marvellous." Taiemnuit indicated her 5 leather trunks, one carry-all and assorted packages. "Perhaps the bellhop can transport them to my room." She signed the register and pushed it back. "It's wonderful to be here at last. Perhaps you would be so kind to arrange some hot water sent to my room? This heat..!"