'That will do, Amy. You may bring in some wine', Julia interrupted, for she was aware that the maid was about to attempt some familiar reminiscing. Lady Dun-nit was an infrequent visitor, but the occasions that she spent with Julia were often memorable, as they were for her nephew, Anthony. He had attained now to the age of seventeen and was a slender youth with a somewhat girlish face and blond hair, which Julia had insisted must be allowed to grow. Not having seen him for over a month, she was pleased, upon entering the drawing room, to find that it now almost reached his shoulders and went rather fetchingly with the blue velvet suit he wore.

Lady Esmeralda Dunnit was a lady in her early forties, who led the local hunt with her husband. Despite her commanding looks and her fiery figure, she acceded to Julia in all matters. The two had been at boarding school together and knew each other's ways. Embracing fondly, they kissed, pecking and cooing at one another's lips while Anthony sat silent and not a little fearful in the presence of their hostess.

'He looks a trifle pale. Have you been over-milking him?', Julia asked distantly while taking good care not to look at Anthony directly.

'Why, no', simpered Esmeralda. 'There has been very little opportunity for it. His mama is too often about and keeps a most careful eye on him'.

'Oh, tush! You should have brought her to rein long ago with as much ease as you do your horses, Esmeralda. It would appear that I shall have to intervene in that. You have been lost for pleasure then, I suppose?'.

A perfect shyness then appeared to come over her lady visitor, who had the grace to blush a little. Julia knew her well enough, however, not to pursue the matter too vocally and merely whispered something in her ear which caused Esmeralda to tremble inwardly with pleasure. At this moment, Marie entered with the wine, which, being a good Chateau neuf du Pape, afforded Lady Dunnit the sense of headiness she preferred to enjoy at such moments in Julia's presence.