‘My father left considerable debts. He was a good doctor but a poor businessman, and he rarely charged any of his poorer patients. Unless I can find a way to pay all or even some of the money back to the creditors, it looks as though I’ll have to sell Creek Hall.’

‘That’s terrible. I can see how much it means to you.’

He came to a halt as they reached the entrance hall. ‘You don’t think I’m being overly sentimental?’

‘Heavens, no! Why would I think that? If I owned a property that had been in my family for so many years I’d do anything to hold on to it.’

A smile lit Nick’s hazel eyes. ‘I believe you would.’ He glanced at the grandfather clock as it chimed the hour. ‘I didn’t realise it was so late. I’m sorry but we’ll have to finish the tour another day. I have to leave for Maldon right away.’

‘I understand. Of course you must go, so don’t worry about me. I’ll go home with Toby.’

‘Explain to him for me, please.’

‘I will.’ She stood aside as he made a grab for his hat and riding crop. ‘Good luck.’

He smiled. ‘Thanks. I’ll need it. Tell Toby I’ll call round this evening and let him know how I got on.’

Daisy nodded but he was already out of the door and she found herself alone in the hallway surrounded by echoes of the past. She could imagine the Neville ancestors pleading softly for someone to save their old home. If this house belonged to her family she would fight to the last to keep it.

‘The coffee is getting cold,’ Toby said crossly when she returned to the dining room. ‘What kept you so long?’

‘I met the redoubtable Mrs Bee.’ Daisy picked up the coffee pot and filled a cup, adding a dash of cream. She sat down beside her brother. ‘Nick had to leave, but he said he’d call round this evening and let you know how his meeting with the solicitor went. I do feel sorry for him.’

Toby shrugged and took another bite of toast. ‘He could sell this old pile of bricks and move on. That’s what I’d do if I were in his position.’

‘But this is the family home, Toby. One of Nick’s ancestors built it.’

‘It’s old and it’s crumbling. Besides which, who in their right mind would want to live in the wilds of Essex? It would be impossible to make a decent living round here.’

‘But the people need a doctor. Doesn’t that mean anything to you?’

‘Then they should move to the nearest town. I intend to do my stint at the London, and then I’m heading for Harley Street where I can make a fortune and retire early so that I can enjoy the fruits of my labours.’

She shook her head. ‘You have no soul, Toby Marshall.’

‘And you are all heart, Daisy.’ He leaned over to kiss her on the forehead. ‘Have you fallen in love with the house or with my friend Nick?’