‘No, you’re not. Get on with your job, Parson.’ The squire’s voice was strong and there was no suggestion of confusion in his eyes as he glared up at the clergyman. ‘Where is she, Daisy? Fetch the mother of my son and let me do one decent thing before I die.’

‘What is this?’ John Peabody glanced anxiously at Daisy. ‘Am I hearing correctly? The squire wishes to marry you?’

Daisy moved towards the doorway. ‘Not me, Vicar. The lady in question was wronged by the squire many years ago. He wishes to make amends.’

The Reverend John Peabody stared at Tattersall as if seeing a total stranger. ‘You do?’

‘Oh, get on with it. I’m sound in mind, if not in body. I know I did the girl a disservice, and I’m prepared to make up for it now.’ He beckoned to Daisy. ‘Write down my dying wishes. I leave everything to Jay Tattersall, my true-born son, and fetch the woman I’m to wed.’

Daisy settled herself back at the escritoire and it only took a matter of minutes to write the simple will, leaving everything to Jay. When it was signed and witnessed by herself and Mr Peabody, Daisy went to fetch Mary.

‘I don’t think I can go through with it.’ Mary paced the floor, wringing her hands. ‘It’s not right.’

‘I can’t force you,’ Daisy said gently. ‘But think of Jay and the injustice he’s had to put up with all his life.’

Mary stopped short and took a deep breath. ‘Yes, you’re right. He suffered because Lemuel couldn’t forgive me, even though I was the innocent party, and he took it out on Jay. I will do it.’

Daisy sent for Mrs Ralston and Molesworth, who acted as witnesses to the bedside marriage of Esmond Tattersall and Mary Fox. Molesworth was visibly shocked, but Mrs Ralston threw her arms around the new Mrs Tattersall and wept.

‘I’m so happy for you, Mary.’

Daisy looked from one to the other in surprise. ‘Do you know each other?’

‘We were in service here at the same time,’ Mrs Ralston said, wiping her eyes on a spotless white handkerchief. ‘Mary was the pretty one, which was unlucky for her. Sometimes there are advantages in being plain and homely.’

‘You weren’t plain,’ Mary protested. ‘You were the clever one, Ida.’

‘Stop cackling like old hens.’ Esmond attempted to sit up, but he lacked the strength. ‘Get them out of here, Daisy. I’ve done my duty. Now leave me to die in peace.’

Molesworth eyed his new mistress warily. ‘Might I suggest we retire to Mrs Ralston’s parlour, ma’am.’

‘I’d better get back to Creek Hall,’ Mary said hurriedly. ‘I have work to do.’

‘You’re the mistress of Creek Manor now.’ Daisy gave her a hug. ‘You’ll never have to work again.’

Mary’s eyes widened. ‘But what will I do all day?’

Mr Peabody cleared his throat noisily. ‘My dear lady, I’m sure that Mrs Peabody would be only too happy to offer you help and advice. You will be most welcome on her committees. There are certain obligations and responsibilities that go with the position of lady of the manor.’