With a pull on the reins, she brought the horse to a stop before heading home; she raised her eyes to the vista: saw the silhouette of a dog on the brow of the hill. One could not mistake it: that was Lord Byron! And only then did she notice the human figure beside him. How very odd of young Mr Knight to be here now, when he could be in London. So, still the singular kingfisher, then. Mary smiled to herself, heard the dog bark, as if calling her name. And, with her heart in her throat, turned the horse around and rode back to Hatch at great speed.

Cassy returned to Kent the following week, and rode over to Hatch at the first opportunity.

‘Darling!’ she shrieked as the two girls embraced. ‘I came the minute I could. Did you near die without me?’

‘Oh, it has been perfectly hideous. You can have no idea, how—’ Mary pulled back and took a good look at her friend. ‘I can see London agreed with you, madam.’ Ever a pretty girl, Cassy was suddenly a young woman at the peak of her bloom.

‘Not without its diversions, I must confess. So much to share—’

With his own, impeccable timing, Dr Knatchbull came into the drawing room and launched into a detailed report of the improvements at Smeeth. ‘Though the addition of an orangery may seem an expense, however—’

‘Sir, do forgive me but I feel rather faint. Do you mind—?’ Mary grabbed Cassy’s hand and pulled her out of the house to the air.

‘Phew.’ Her whole being seemed to sigh with relief. ‘Here at least we can talk. Catholics have the confessional; Knatchbulls the gravel. This is where my parents come when there are things to discuss.’

They linked arms and began a tour of the circle.

‘And so who was that, pray?’

‘Oh, Cass. Where to begin?’ Mary had not dared to mention Dr Knatchbull in her letters – suppose Fanny had learned of it? Only now could she recount the whole, hideous saga. ‘And the worst thing is – really, I struggle but I swear it is true – I believe they mean me to marry him. Uncle as husband! Is that not a scandal?’

But to Mary’s astonishment, Cassy showed no surprise. Instead, she said simply: ‘So that is the gentleman. In which case, oh dear.’

‘You knew?’

‘Don’t shriek! They’ll hear.’ Cass looked at the house and dragged Mary away from it. ‘I shall tell all, but in turn you must promise me not to hate Fan. She’s a good sort deep down, you know, and wants only the best for you.’

So even a friendship such as theirs could not compete with the Family. In that moment, Mary was returned to her childhood. Once again, she was completely alone.