‘Exactly – my mother’s favourite – and, as such, she always had my mother’s ear. She never treats me as the grown woman I am, and never will.’ Isabelle remembered the time when Lily had told tales on her and her former lover, John Sidgwick, something for which she had never forgiven her. ‘Everyone else can stay. I don’t want to be seen as uncaring.’ She had known how James would react and had been hesitant to reveal her thoughts.

‘I know that you must be prudent, but Lily was dear to your mother’s heart. And you have to deal with Mazy and Jethro every day. I don’t think you will be helping your reputation. As the doctor told you, your mother’s shoes are hard to fill.’ James watched as his wife struggled to realize that she would not be liked for her actions.

‘Perhaps if I find Lily somewhere to live, it might look like I do care. It was a trick my mother used to employ, whenever she felt her staff had to leave. Although all the Lock Cottages are occupied, I could perhaps speak to my godfather and see if he has any cottages empty. The ones on Jubilee Terrace at Langcliffe would be ideal. I’m sure he will be able to help. As for Ethan, I’m afraid I stand by my decision.’ Isabelle walked over to the doorway and watched as the carriers closed the tailgate of their cart after they finished loading the Fox possessions. ‘Can you lock the doors and make sure all is secure?’ She turned and looked at her scowling husband.

‘Why, where are you going?’ James walked over to her side.

‘I’m going to Grisedale’s on Victoria Street. I’d like a new bedroom suite for Jane’s bedroom, and I saw just what I wanted in their window.’ Isabelle tidied her plaited hair and placed her elaborately decorated hat on her head, glancing in the hallway mirror as she picked up her parasol from the umbrella stand.

‘But, Isabelle, there are four perfectly good bedroom suites upstairs that you could take to Windfell, not to mention the ones already there.’ James shook his head.

‘She needs a new one, something modern that reflects the age we live in. A new broom sweeps clean, James – you should know that.’

He watched as his wife walked down the path of Ingfield House. He knew Isabelle would have whatever she wanted, despite what he had to say about it. He respected her for being a strong woman, but sometimes she was so stubborn. Stubborn to the point of stupidity, especially when she would not back down after realizing her mistakes. He sighed and gazed around Ingfield House, before closing the heavy oak door and locking it securely behind him.