Polly eyed the gin jar and Beatrice bristled in challenge, but Polly laughed raucously, an unusual occurrence for someone normally uncompromisingly strict in all quarters. ‘There’s something better than that tonight for those of us servants who partake. Sir Oliver has given us half a dozen bottles of his best wine from the cellar. Join Nathan and myself and the others after the meal’s over, Beatrice.’

‘Well, bless ’is ’eart! Always was a good boy, an’ who do knaw that better ’n me? We’ll celebrate fit t’ lift off the roof! Drink a toast t’ the boy an’ ’is maid!’

For once, Polly did not correct Beatrice’s affectionate term for their master and mistress.

Throughout the evening, regardless of this being a meal in Luke and Bartholomew’s honour, everyone’s eyes were constantly on Oliver and Kerensa. He sent a secret signal down across the table and she sent him one back.

‘You simply must tell me what that meant, dear heart,’ Rachael leaned across Luke and squawked at Kerensa. Then she nudged Luke, and winked. ‘Or should I wait until I’m alone with your mama for the explanation, eh, eh?’

Luke looked steadily at his mother, who was laughing now at a witty word from Bartholomew. His parents had evidently resolved all their troubles, but did she perhaps have something shattering to tell Clem Trenchard?

Olivia was interested in the newest member to join the family. While occasionally entering the conversation Timothy was having with Cordelia about the various attractions offered at Bath nowadays, she turned often to view Morgan Kinver’s strong profile. He was talking mostly to Jack and Alicia, and finally, somewhat bemused, he gave Olivia a full view of his face.

She was immediately drawn to his warm smile. ‘Forgive me for staring, Mr Kinver – Morgan. Do you happen to know I do a little painting? I’d like to do your portrait, if I may. Would you have the time to come to the parsonage?’

‘I’d be pleased to.’ He glanced at Cordelia, who nodded in encouragement.

‘Livvy, dear,’ Timothy interrupted, and Olivia clammed up, pretending to be interested only in her food. He was saddened to witness once again how George Spears’ defection had robbed her of her confidence. This was the first time since then that she had shown any enthusiasm to resume painting. She was despondent about the house and parish, and showed little delight in expectation of the baby.

He went on rapidly, ‘I think I might have a better suggestion, my love. You planned at one time to do some painting at Polgissey. There’s still weeks yet before you must rest before your confinement. Go to Polgissey, stay with Cordelia and Morgan and paint him there. And why not paint him about his work? Out in natural conditions. Draw Jack with the horses and Mrs Rosevear with the new baby.