It took Blackie only a day or two to understand how Fairley Hall was run and also to figure out the people who lived there. It was the longest he’d ever spent in such a grand house.

His favourite by a long shot was Mrs Olivia Wainright. Her sister, Adele Fairley, was married to the Squire.

Mrs Wainright was a widow, personable, pleasant to deal with, down-to-earth and practical. As soon as she arrived, she took control of the household immediately without seeming to do so. There was a sudden sense of ease, and certainly a feeling of tranquillity in the air. The Squire, Adam Fairley, seemed a little distracted in general, but he appeared to appreciate the arrival of his sister-in-law. He worked hard running the Fairley mill and the brickyard, and other interests. He appeared kindly enough to Blackie, and Blackie wondered why Emma hated him so.

Mrs Fairley, thin, dark-haired and haunted-looking, was an alcoholic. Not that Blackie had ever seen her drinking, but he had smelled her breath. She reeked of liquor when she came downstairs, even at noon. Later, in the evening, she seemed wobbly on her feet.

Their two sons were as different as chalk and cheese. Edwin, the eldest, was a gentleman like his father. He was good-looking and proper in his dress. He was always polite with everyone, including the staff, who loved him.

Blackie had taken a genuine dislike to Gerald, the younger son, instantly. He had wanted to punch him when Gerald was nasty to Emma. He was a bully, and most likely a coward, as all bullies usually were. He had a tendency to be bossy, and he lost his temper a lot, shouting at everyone. It was obvious to Blackie that he was universally disliked in the Hall and in the village as well.

The butler, Murgatroyd, was also a difficult man. He had grown too comfortable in his job, no doubt, and lax in his duties. He had a grumpy expression and a cold voice, and could become enraged about nothing much.

But Blackie did like Cook. Mrs Turner was the salt of the earth and a mine of information. She was easy-going to a certain extent, and always smiling. But he’d seen her put her foot down with Murgatroyd and knew she ruled her territory with an iron hand. Her kitchen was her domain, and everyone was made to realize that. This aside, she was a splendid cook, and that was one good thing about Fairley Hall. He got the impression that the Squire was inclined to neglect household matters – and certainly his wife was incapable of involving herself in running the place; but ever since Mrs Wainright had arrived, her keen interest in all aspects of the Hall’s management had had a profound effect. Cook was now buying the best of produce from the local suppliers, and her meals were delicious as a result.