‘This is your sort of job,’ said the earl, turning to Harry. ‘Cover it up and send me the bill.’

‘Were it not for my respect for your daughter, who had to shoot her way out of the place, I would gladly see you exposed in the press. It would be better for you and your daughter if you would accept the fact that she may never get married.’

Rose felt tears welling up in her eyes. She did not know why. ‘Don’t cry,’ said Daisy, pressing her hand.

‘I am very hungry,’ sobbed Rose. ‘We have had nothing to eat.’

‘I think you should take your daughter home,’ said Kerridge. ‘I will call on you this evening when I have found out more.’

That evening, before dinner, Rose met her parents in the drawing-room. Daisy sat quietly in the corner and listened in amazement. She had expected the earl and countess to apologize to their daughter, not realizing that such as the earl and countess did not apologize to anyone, ever.

‘We’ve been thinking, Rose,’ said the earl, ‘that Cathcart may have the right of it. We have decided to accept that you will probably remain a spinster. Good idea. Save us the expense of another season, what. You always were bookish and interested in odd things like this vegetarian caper. We don’t mind so long as you don’t go back to supporting the suffragettes or anything scandalous like that.’

‘We always try to do what’s best for you,’ said Lady Polly.

‘Such as having me locked up in an asylum?’

‘That was Humphrey’s fault. I’ve fired her. Ordered two lady’s maids from that new agency. Haven’t got time to search around.’

‘Humphrey was with you for years,’ protested Rose.

‘I’ve given her a good reference and some money to tide her over. More than she deserves.’

‘Mama, have you thanked Daisy for saving me?’

‘No, but thank you, Levine. Shall we go in to dinner?’

Harry called at his office before going to Eaton Square to hear from Kerridge if McWhirter had been charged.

Miss Jubbles was still there. For the first time, Harry saw the obsessive adoration in her eyes.

He came to a decision. ‘Miss Jubbles,’ he said, ‘you should not be here so late, but I am glad you are. I have something to say to you.’

‘Oh, sir!’ Miss Jubbles blushed.

I think she expects me to propose to her, thought Harry. This is dreadful.

‘Miss Jubbles, I regret to tell you that I have too many overheads and may have to wind up the business. I regret that I do not need your services any longer.’

Miss Jubbles turned as white as she had been red a moment before. ‘I will work for nothing!’

‘No, I cannot have that. I will pay you three months’ wages. That will allow you time to find another position.’