Relieved to get away from the depressing subject of illness, Daisy was intrigued by the Fox family. ‘The girls have birds’ names, but Jack is presumably short for James or John.’

Nick laughed and encouraged the horse to trot. ‘I believe he was christened Jackdaw, but understandably prefers the shortened version.’

‘And the other son?’

‘Jay is the black sheep of the family. We used to play together as boys, but then I went to boarding school and university and we went our separate ways.’

‘Perhaps someone ought to inform Jay that his parents are ill?’

‘You’re right, of course, although I wouldn’t know how to contact him. I’ve been away from the village for a very long time.’

‘But Mrs Bee might be able to help. You said that she knows everyone.’

‘Again, you’re quite right. I’ve learned how to diagnose and deal with disease, but it seems I still have much to learn about dealing with patients’ problems. Maybe I’m more suited to working at a big hospital or in Harley Street. Perhaps Toby has the right idea.’

‘My brother isn’t like you, Nick. I think you would make a very good country doctor, and I suspect that the people in places like Little Creek are in desperate need of your services. London is full of hospitals and doctors’ practices, but you said yourself that the villagers have had no one to look after them since your father passed away.’

‘That is true but my position is untenable. If I can’t make the repayments to the squire I’ll have to sell the property.’ He concentrated on the road ahead. ‘Anyway, that’s my problem. Will you stay in Little Creek? You didn’t seem too keen on the idea yesterday.’

‘It’s different for me,’ Daisy said, sighing. ‘I really don’t want to go back to being a governess, but I’m not qualified to do anything else.’

‘Then we’re both at a crossroads, and neither of us knows which way to go.’

He drove on in silence until they reached Creek Cottage, where he reined in and drew the horse to a halt. ‘Come to dinner this evening, Daisy. I’ll show you the rest of Creek Hall and you’ll see the extent of my problem. Nothing has been done to preserve the old house for many a year despite my father’s attempts to renovate the building. I’m afraid it might be too late to save it now.’

‘That’s not the most exciting invitation I’ve ever had,’ Daisy said, laughing. ‘But I would like to see more of the house. It just needs some loving care to bring it back to life.’

Nick leaped to the ground and helped her to alight from the chaise. ‘I’ll call for you at six, if that’s convenient.’

‘Thank you. I’ll look forward to it.’

Dove served their meal in the dining room. Candlelight reflected off the old oak panelling, adding to the feeling of warmth and comfort, and the steak and kidney pie was excellent, but Daisy’s thoughts were with the Fox family, living in squalid conditions less than a mile away.