With shaky fingers she unfolded the stiff paper and began to read. For a moment the heavy black scrawl she knew so well danced before her eyes. With a supreme effort she focused and began to read.

My dear daughter, Althea,

It has been far too long since we are on good terms. I admit the fault has been mine and wish to make amends, if you will allow me to. I have sent a carriage to collect you and your three girls. I would like you all to move to Westerham and live with me.

Your father,

Richard Lessing.

Althea felt her stomach roil and was glad she had not eaten. She raised her head and her eyes were full. “Edwards, I am to go home. He has asked me to come home. At last, I shall have back the life that I lost.”

“I'm delighted, madam. That's good news indeed. But if we're to travel sixty miles you'll need to feel well. At the moment you're not strong enough to stand the journey.”

Before Lady Althea could answer Emily entered, her pale serious face for once animated and her remarkable eyes sparkling. “Mama, have you read your letter yet?”

“I have, my dear. Your grandfather has invited us to make his home with him. Are you not pleased?

“I am, of course I am. But there is much to do before we can depart. The carriage and staff that accompanied it are going to put up The Bull, in Misham. We're to send for them when we're ready. I have told them that we'll need several days. Is that going to be sufficient, for you, Mama?” This was addressed at her mother but it was at Edwards that she looked. Her mother's devoted dresser nodded and Emily's smile became broader.

“I should think it would do, my dear. But I must have some new gowns before we leave. It will not do for Papa to think me dowdy.”

“I have already sent to Misham and Mrs Simpson will be here later. Jenny's upstairs in the attics at this very moment collecting the last of the Indian materials we have been saving for such an occasion as this,” Emily told her.