The next morning.

2nd of June, 17XX

Mrs. Nesbeth's proposal to prepare a bed for me was a surprise to say the least. I wondered if this is something entirely hers or if this was the same for everyone. To that end, I spoke with the house staff after the morning meal. "Howard, Is it a common thing for people to spend nights at each other's homes?"

"Not as such sir," he started, picking the lint from my jacket, "Most of the time, the people here tend to... enjoy each other's company, shall we say, anytime and anywhere they fancy. And should that be within someone's home and the hour is late, the owner of the house is obligated to offer them a place to sleep."

"I don't think obligated is the right word, Howard," Gloria added, clearing the table. "Would it not be more accurate to say that they fell asleep in the same bed and, should they be willing, it makes it easier if they wished to resume in the morning?"

Their squabbling was a most welcome distraction, but a distraction none the less. "So it does happen then?"

Their heads turned to me. "Yes sir."

Stirring my coffee idly, I thought about if I should accept Mrs. Nesbeth's offer that I spend the night there or if I should return here once my business was concluded. But a different thought came to me as well. "Howard, Gloria," I addressed my temporary house staff, "have you two ever...?"

Howard stopped what he was doing, and looked to me, then to Gloria, then back to me. "We have before, but not since entering your service, sir."

"That started only two days ago Howard," I replied, "that is no great accomplishment. To my best guess, you two could have been together three days ago." Howard just shrugged and Gloria had already left the room with the dirty dishes. I admit, their pairing did intrigue me, but I had already pried into someone else's affairs today. So, I return to the question, do I return here or stay with them for the night?

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