I think, sir, that you may underestimate the comtesses of a certain age. There is no creature more formidable. If ever you should need a dragon killed or a fortress besieged, merely inform Claudette Vernochier and her bosom sisters that beyond the hazard lies a young man of some decent form and needy fortune wearing only lavender oil and a strategically placed ribbon bow, and you shall have your victory in the blink of an eye.