"I implore my silly wife never to think too harshly of her oftentimes foolish husband, for he means no disrespect in his jesting," Percy then added, softly reaching across himself to touch the hand that was touching his arm. "I'd hate to think that I insulted Monsieur Beaufort with my silly little display of eighteenth century patriotism. Truly, the man doesn't understand what France means to me, because of what it means to you. So, do apologise for your silly husband, for he meant no harm to the gentleman who has been so good to his dear wife."

Percy kissed the side of his dear Marguerite's face. "Please, love," he murmured.