Though she had shared about Heinrich to Agatha, she could not bear to share what had passed between her and Daniel. The kiss that had dominated her mind and heart since the instant it happened. That moment was too precious, too tender, too important to share. She held it close, cherishing it, puzzling over it, and reliving it.

The feelings she had discovered for Daniel Swann made anything she might feel for Heinrich pale into insignificance. Under those conditions, she could not possibly marry the German duke, could she?

How she wished her parents would return quickly. She would appreciate their guidance. While marriage to Daniel Swann was outside the realm of possibility, if she loved him, marriage to anyone else would be untenable.

She walked on, and Agatha kept step. “I pray you are right and that Alonzo returns quickly to take up his title and to marry you. You are very loyal, and I hope your loyalty is rewarded. And I am proud of the way you have been so brave in the wake of your father’s death.”

Agatha nodded her certainty. “I do not feel particularly brave, but I am sure of Alonzo. As for dealing with things concerning my father, I have had many people helping me. At the urging of my father’s accountant, Mr. Earnshaw, I gave the approval to begin repairs on the mill. He says if I have it repaired, I can either continue to run it myself with a new manager, or I can sell it. There is a buyer interested already. Sadly, I am told the former manager, Mr. Coombe, is still in hospital, and though he is showing signs of awakening, there is little chance of a full recovery or his being able to resume his duties at the mill.”

“Perhaps you will make some provision for him and his family?” Juliette asked as they neared the end of the path.

“Oh yes. That is already being taken care of. It was Mr. Earnshaw’s suggestion as well. I don’t know what I would have done without Mr. Earnshaw. He’s helped me understand the extent of my father’s holdings, and he’s taken on so much, seeing to the bills and making certain employees are paid. He’s been so helpful. He tells me not to worry about a thing. He’s got it all under control. His only complaint is that so many of my father’s papers are still at Bow Street. He’s asked several times if I can get them for him.”

“I’m sure Mr. Swann will not keep them longer than necessary. And I’m glad you have a professional to aid you. I wouldn’t know the first thing about managing my father’s holdings. I’m not even certain what they are beyond Heild House and the estate. Though since the title would pass to Uncle Bertie, I wouldn’t have to manage any of those things.”