'Let's not argue, Dorothy,' she said, trying to placate her. 'I'm sorry if I spoke out of turn — it was unpardonable of me. I know that you have my best interests at heart.'

'I do, Abigail,' said the other. 'My only wish is to help you.'

'Then the simplest way to do that is to leave us alone. When he comes today — if he comes, that is — I beg you not to spoil it for me.'

'You need me here as a safeguard, Abigail.'

'Against what — Captain Rawson is a gentleman.'

'He is, by your own report, a dashing soldier and I'll not have him taking advantage of my younger sister.'

'Nothing would be further from his mind,' said Abigail. 'On the two occasions we've met, Daniel — Captain Rawson, that is — has been kind and considerate to me.'

'It always begins that way.'

'Leave us alone, Dorothy — please.'

'I'll stay discreetly in the background.'

'How can either of us express our true feelings with another person in the room? It would be malicious of you to stay.' A distant bell rang and Abigail went into a mild panic. 'That's him!' she cried. 'He honoured his promise, as I knew he would. Oh, Dorothy,' she went on, taking her sister by the arm and leading her to the door, 'let me have some time alone with him, I implore you. I always disappeared obediently whenever your admirers called. The least you can do is to return the compliment.'

Dorothy pondered. 'Very well,' she said at length, 'but I'll be in the next room. If there's the merest hint of impropriety, you've only to call me.' She forced a smile. 'All I ask is that you don't expect too much or you could be cruelly disappointed.'