‘I’m moving to the opposite coast, the Polgissey estate on the North Cliffs. Cordelia is coming with me, and I’m taking Jack as my steward and his wife as Cordelia’s companion. I shall keep myself informed of Kane’s progress, and I hope that if you ever have need of me you won’t hesitate to send word. You have my assurance I’ll come to you at once. Kane will understand my desire to make my own mark in life.’

Jessica was holding Kane’s hand and she looked down at him to see if he had heard. His eyes were closed. ‘I hope Cordelia doesn’t come to regret it. You are two and twenty, Luke, but too young yet in the head for such a responsibility.’

‘Can you not find it in your heart to wish her, Jack and I well, Jessica?’

She thought for several moments, impressed that he had included Jack in his question. ‘Yes, I suppose so, and I’m sure Kane will too when I tell him. He’s the one member of your family who doesn’t bear grudges, even after what’s just been done to him. Write to him when you’re settled.’

Bending over the bed, Luke kissed Kane’s burning cheek. A grim thought made his hand fly to his constantly aching shoulder. ‘Will he be crippled? Please God, not that.’

‘We must pray not.’ Jessica smoothed Kane’s damp hair. ‘But Dr Crebo says he’ll definitely have a limp. It’s infection I’m worried about.’

Pressing his lips together, Luke shook his head. ‘Pray God it gives him no lasting pain. Kane didn’t deserve this, but Jessica, please heed my next words. My father couldn’t feel more wretched about the accident if he tried for all eternity. Won’t you relent and answer his letters?’

Jessica looked away.

‘Very well. Mama will be riding over tomorrow, is there anything you’d like her to bring?’

Jessica shook her head.

‘I’ll go now and leave you in peace, but first may I take a peep at my godson? Livvy’s going to give me the first likeness she paints of Harry. Do you think she’s happy? She seems to have lost her spirit. I suppose this sorry incident has affected her as deeply as the rest of us.’