‘Where’s that, then? Tied to the kitchen sink, doing sewing and needlework and looking pretty on a man’s arm? Grandmama never did any of that, nor did you, Mama. Both of you were your own women – and you still are. Yet we don’t get a say in the running of the country. Surely that’s not fair?’ She folded the newspaper and looked at her father, who was about to explode.

‘Enough, Jane, we have visitors about to join us. In fact I can hear their carriage coming up the drive this minute. Now no more talk of suffragettes, women’s rights or anything else that crosses your mind. And try to be right with Rosie. I know you are not alike, but you can at least show her a little respect. After all, she is your cousin.’ Isabelle rose from her chair and made her way to the hallway, giving James a dark look as she went, in the hope that he would say something along the same lines to Jane while she went to meet their guests.

‘Your mother’s right: you know nothing about suchlike. You should just concentrate on your role in the firm. That’s enough for you to think about at present,’ James said gruffly.

‘Grandmama would understand. She always knew what was right.’ Jane crossed her arms in a sulk.

‘Well, she isn’t here. So just for once, smile and be pleasant.’ James rose to his feet and went to join Isabelle, who was busy making their guests welcome, leaving Jane to continue feeling upset about the death of Emily Davison.

‘Harriet, how lovely that you can be with us today. And just look at young Ben and Georgina – how quickly they grow!’ Isabelle welcomed Danny and his family to Windfell with open arms. She was genuinely glad that Harriet had accepted her invitation to lunch. ‘No Rosie? Jane will be disappointed. She was hoping that Rosie would be with you.’

‘I’m afraid Rosie was feeling a little unwell this morning, so she could not join us.’ Harriet smiled at Isabelle, feeling that her welcome was slightly over the top.

‘She ate too many gooseberries yesterday, giving herself a belly ache, that’s all.’ Danny sat down in a chair and looked at Harriet and hoped she wasn’t going to fret about Rosie being left at home.

Jane had moved to sit next to the window. She sniggered but quickly hid her reaction, as her Aunt Harriet gave her a warning glance.