‘Now, Jane, who is this? Are you not going to introduce us?’ Isabelle touched the arm of the young man who had captivated her daughter. ‘I don’t believe you made yourself known to me as you entered Windfell.’ She caught her breath as he turned to smile at her.

‘Mother, may I introduce Daniel Bland. He is the grandson of Ragged Hall’s Mr Brown. I met him when he came to inform Grandfather of Mr Brown’s death. I hope you didn’t mind me inviting him this evening.’ Jane beamed at the handsome young man who stood next to her.

‘Delighted to meet you, Mrs Fox. My grandfather spoke often of your family and was insistent that I made myself known to you and your brother.’ Daniel looked at Isabelle and recognized a change in her manner as she studied his features.

‘Please accept my condolences on the loss of your grandfather. He will be missed by the local community. I know my stepfather and stepbrother knew him very well. Tell me, Mr Bland, are you his only grandchild? I have quite lost track of your mother and what family she has, since she moved over to Slaidburn.’ Isabelle fished cautiously for what she already knew was the answer. It was clear to her who this young man was – and who his father was, for the likeness was uncanny.

‘I’m the oldest and I have left four brothers back in Slaidburn. However, I’m afraid I have fallen out of favour with them, as my grandfather left me Ragged Hall upon his death. My father is not happy that he did not see fit to will it to my mother, for some reason. There is nothing stranger than families, but I was always there for my grandfather, and he was there for me. I seem to be the odd one out in the family, but blessed when it comes to luck.’ Daniel smiled, knowing full well what Isabelle was thinking.

‘So, will you be staying in the area? I’m sure it would have pleased your grandfather to know that his farm is in good hands and will be remaining in the family.’ Isabelle looked at Jane, who kept glancing at her companion. She was smitten by him, even though he was improperly dressed for the occasion and of little standing in the community.

‘Yes, it needs a lot of work and a great deal of time spending on it. But I’m willing to give it both, so you won’t be seeing the back of me quite yet.’ Daniel grinned. Isabelle knew who he was, and his grandfather had told him that the stepsister and brother were very close. She knew that he was Danny Atkinson’s son – something his mother had told him when he was old enough to understand.