Alistair flushed gently; more often than not, his own clumsiness was largely ignored by polite society, provided he offered an apology for his poor footing or stumbling about. The inquisitive lady's questioning was a bit outside of his usual experience, and it gave him pause.
At least the gentleman at her side had been kind enough.
"No, indeed," he replied with a nervous chuckle. "I've been unfortunate to have been blessed since childhood with all the grace and coordination of a newborn fawn trying to sturdy its legs. I do apologize, madam, for your trouble."