Hetty nodded. “Jeb was an extraordinary man. But now, I mustn't tire you. You will need all your energy for this afternoon.” She stood up. “I will show you to your room. I'm sure you'd like to refresh yourself after your journey.”

Rebecca, too, stood up and followed Hetty out of the drawing-room.

“We will be taking luncheon in an hour,” said Hetty. She led Rebecca upstairs, to the pretty guest room that had been made ready for her. “And then we will be setting out for the lawyer's office.”

Rebecca looked at her enquiringly. She had expected the will to be read at the house.

“Charles has a great deal of business to attend to, and it is more convenient for him if we go to Mr Wesley rather than asking the lawyer to read the will here. We did not know you would have to travel today,” she explained apologetically, “and so we thought you would not object,”

“Of course I don't.” Rebecca set her aunt's hospitable mind at ease.

Hetty smiled. “Thank you, my dear.” She gave a rueful smile. “Charles is the best of husbands, but he does like to have his own way!”

Rebecca laughed, for although it was true that in business matters her uncle liked to have his own way, in all matters relating to the household her aunt's word was law.

“And now I will leave you,” said Hetty. “Remember, lunch is in an hour.”

And after that, thought Rebecca, looking round the pretty room, I will hear the reading of Grandfather's will.

Chapter Two