“Your aunt has a wonderful collection,” said Hadley, still trying to make out what had changed in Marie.

“Yes.” Marie paused. “Hadley,” she said, “I think I had better tell you, I know all about Marc.”

“Oh?”

“The letter, the woman and the baby.”

“Oh.”

“My aunt Éloïse decided it was time I grew up.” She smiled. “But don’t tell my parents that I know.”

“No.”

“I think in America, it’s different. American girls are not so sheltered.”

“It’s not that different.”

“Well, my aunt thinks it’s absurd. I’m quite old enough to be married.”

“Yes.”

“But I’m kept in a state of idiotic innocence. So that’s over. Perhaps you disapprove.”

“Oh, no.”

“It was very nice of you to take the letter from my brother, the way that you did. I think you’re a very good friend. Though I don’t think he should have done it.”

“I’d have done the same in his place,” he lied.

“Are you telling me you have a mistress who’s trying to marry you, and an illegitimate child as well?”

“No.” He laughed. “Not at all. Neither.”

“That’s good,” she said.

Aunt Éloïse reappeared.

“Shall we have some tea?” she asked.

“I must go,” said Marie. “I’d like to stay, but I’m on my way to the Rochards’. I only looked in to deliver a message, Aunt Éloïse, that you are invited to lunch on Sunday. And as I have found you, Monsieur Hadley, would you please tell my brother he should also come? You are invited too.”

“That’s very kind.”

“Until Sunday then.” She kissed her aunt, and was gone.

After tea, Hadley rose to leave. He thanked Éloïse for a delightful time.

“I’m glad you like my pictures,” she said.

“Very much.” He paused at the door. “I was rather amazed at the change in Marie.”

“Well, it’s time she married. So it’s not too soon for her to … wake up. She’s a lovely young woman. Don’t you think?”

“Yes.”

“Perhaps.” She spoke very quietly, but he was sure he heard her say: “Perhaps you should wake up too.”

Aunt Éloïse was pleased. The family lunch was going well. Everyone seemed to be getting on very well. Even Gérard was being pleasant. Marie was looking radiant. And if she was not much mistaken, Éloïse thought, Frank Hadley was watching her niece with more than usual interest.

All that was needed was an opportunity for them to spend some time together. It presented itself during the dessert.