"Yes, Mr Foster, sir, thank you.” The girl hastily closed the door and scuttled across the shabby hall to find Miss Emily. She knew Lady Althea was asleep in her bed, even though it was past noon.
“I have two letters here, Miss Emily.”
“Thank you, I shall take them both. Could you take in some refreshment for our visitor?”
With shaking hands she broke the impressive seal and unfolded the letter. Her youngest sister watched anxiously as the colour drained from Emily's face.
“What is it, Em, is it bad news? Has our grandfather died?”
Emily pulled herself together sufficiently to answer. “No, darling. It's very good news indeed. Grandfather has invited us all to live with him at Westerham. He is to take care of us in future. Is that not splendid news?”
Chapter Two
Serena wondered why such good news had caused her elder sister to look so frightened. “Don't you wish to go, Em?”
“Yes, of course, I do. It's a shock; but a welcome one.” She bent down to hug her sister. “It has been such a worry, trying to keep us solvent on so little money. When I wrote to the Earl I had no idea he would respond so quickly. That's why I was unnerved for a moment, nothing more, I do assure you, sweetheart.”
“Shall I run and tell Mama? She was always used to talk about Westerham and what a great house it was, when Papa was alive. She will be pleased to return, won't she?”
“I'm sure she will. But don't go upstairs to tell her; I will come along directly I have spoken to Mr Foster. She was still asleep a little while ago. It will take time for Edwards to get her organized. We don't wish to make her even more unwell do we, Serena?”
The little girl solemnly shook her head, her dark braids flying. “Can I tell Millie though?”
Emily gave her consent and the child ran off, eager to share the amazing news with someone. Mr Foster stood up as Emily entered. He bowed.