He took a position behind Philomena and grasped her chin. He leaned forward. His sour breath made her gasp. His voice hissed, soft and menacing in Philomena’s ear. “You will do as I tell you or find I can be less kind and generous. I am sure you have known this day of reckoning would arrive, one day. This time, Lord Thatcham will not prevent me having my wishes.”

“Lord Thatcham? What has he to do with this?”

“Oh, plenty.” Muldrow linked his hands together and cracked his long fingers. “Did you think you were my only prize?” He laughed, and in a swift movement tipped the contents of Philomena’s wine glass into her open mouth. She spluttered and coughed as the liquid burned. For several moments, she gasped for breath and could not speak.

“It will do no harm to let you into some of my secrets, my dear, now that I have you all to myself. “ Muldrow smiled. “I have waited a long time for this moment, and I believe I shall enjoy myself extremely.” He snapped his fingers and the butler appeared at the table. “Fill the wine glasses, then leave two bottles on the table. Bring the dishes here, and then you and the other servants may depart for the evening.” The butler left the room.

“You see, my dear, I pay my staff well, and they obey my commands. You need look for no help from them. Indeed, I would advise you to enjoy the evening and get to know our friend on your right once more. You will be spending time with Joseph, later.”

Philomena felt sick. Joseph leered at her, spilling red wine on an ill-tied cravat, winking and re-filling his glass with enthusiasm.

The butler and footman brought laden platters to the table. Philomena’s mouth was too dry for food. The wine had already made her head swim unpleasantly, and she feared that whatever she put in her stomach would return before long. There seemed to be no way out of this predicament. She must play along and keep alert, ready to grasp any opportunity for escape.

“Now, where was I?” Muldrow leaned back in his chair and tapped his right hand on the table. A green ring glinted against the white skin of his hand. He twirled his wine glass so that it gleamed in the light from the candles. “Drink up, my dear. It really would be too much of a bore to have to use violence. I am sure you will enjoy your time here far more if you have taken wine. On the other hand, perhaps you wish to remember every moment of your encounter with a clear head. We are certainly anticipating it with the greatest of pleasure.” Muldrow reached across and stroked Joseph’s hair.

Philomena’s stomach heaved.