‘No, no,’ she stressed, turning back and waving a hand in front of her face to hide what she felt was glaringly displayed for him to see. ‘I was just wondering where the children have got to,’ she lied.

‘When I arrived, your two boys were sliding down the banister of the stairs. Your little maid was shouting at them to stop.’

‘That sounds very much as usual.’ Kerensa was glad she could smile.

‘It must be hard going for you. Three active children, another soon to bear, and Sir Oliver away,’ Bartholomew said slowly.

‘I am fine, Bartholomew. It’s near seven years since Luke was born, it’s a big gap, things are different this time, that’s all.’

‘How much longer till you expect the birthing? I know it’s indelicate to ask but I’m concerned for you.’

‘I confess I’m not sure. Dr Crebo reckons about ten weeks and Beatrice is in agreement.’

‘That settles it then,’ Bartholomew said knowledgeably. ‘When Beatrice says a baby’s due, that’s when it comes.’

Kerensa was amused. ‘I didn’t know you were such an expert on childbearing, Bartholomew.’

‘Well, I’m the eldest child of a family of six,’ he grinned at her. ‘I know a thing or two about it… I suppose Sir Oliver would like another son.’

‘I don’t expect him to mind either way.’ She wanted desperately to drop the subject. She was uneasy about Oliver not knowing about the baby and as each day passed she became a little more fearful about it. Every time there was a knock at the door, every time it was opened, at every sound of a horse or carriage approaching the house she desperately hoped it was Oliver come home in time for the birth of his child and a new beginning for all of them.

Bartholomew was as curious about Oliver’s sudden departure as was the rest of the parish. ‘Be back soon, will he?’

A shadow dulled Kerensa’s eyes. ‘I have no idea when he’s coming back.’

He saw the subtle change in her deep grey-green eyes. ‘I’m sorry, I had no right to ask such a personal question.’

‘It’s all right.’ Kerensa tried to sound cheerful. ‘Women in my condition are susceptible to sudden changes of mood, as you probably know. It’s been good to have someone to talk to, I haven’t had many visitors of late.’

‘May I call again, later in the week? I can repay the hundred pounds you lent me.’

‘There’s no need,’ Kerensa protested.

‘There’s every need,’ Bartholomew said darkly.

‘Yes, of course,’ she smiled knowingly, ‘you have your pride, I’m sorry.’