Mr. Atkinson Warren offered his arm, and Cecilia accepted it, allowing him to usher her to the carriage he rode from. As they settled inside, Cecilia silently thanked her luck and her sudden impulse to invest in the lavish dress, the man clearly wouldn't have offered aid to a less respectable figure.
Mr. Atkinson admired her appearance with an approving gaze. "I must say, Miss Penelope, I love the dress you are putting on. The blue compliments your skin beautifully."
"You are too kind, Mr. Atkinson," Cecilia replied, offering a practiced, formal smile. She thanked him for complimenting the way she dressed, noting his own fine clothing and mannerisms. She could easily tell he was from the upper class.
"So, since you are lost, I would like to welcome you to the city," Atkinson continued with a touch of proud formality. "This is a place where anyone is welcome. I hope you enjoy your stay here."
