The chiseled Captain

Alice sashays up to {if Simmons-Alice > 0}Captain Simmons{else}the young man in uniform{endif} with a smile. "Captain{if Simmons-Alice > 0} Simmons{endif}! I'm delighted to see you here. To what do we owe the pleasure?"

He turns to her in surprise, but looks pleased to see her standing at his elbow. "{if Simmons-Alice > 0}Ah, Miss Foxhaven! {endif}I was invited by the Bellingtons to attend with a few of my men - though I must admit that the enlisted chaps seem to have slunk off. Most probably they're not familiar with the dances." {if Simmons-Alice > 0}He smiles down at her. "I must say, I'm very glad to see you again."{else}He gives her a courteous bow. "The name is Simmons, miss. Captain Simmons, at your service."{endif}

Alice smiles, her heart beating fast. It's so easy to get men's attention! You just have to pay them some first. "{if Simmons-Alice > 0}I assure you sir, I'm just as happy to see you as you are to see me! Wiltshire is dreadfully dull without the Army here.{else}My name is Alice, Captain Simmons. Alice Foxhaven. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance.{endif} Are you enjoying the party? The Bellingtons are excellent hosts."

"Indeed!" He gives her a small smile. "I must admit that I am not much of one for parties - a rarity in my family, but it's true of me. Still, I am enjoying the festivities and the chance to get to meet my neighbors in this county."

Alice smiles back at him, mind racing. What can I ask him about? Maybe I'll inquire about...