My thoughts were so consumed by this mystery that I was scarcely aware of the approaching footsteps in the drawing room. When I lifted my head I was most surprised to discover Mrs Elliot standing in the open door, with Jean about to announce her. At first I did not recognize her for she wore a plain blue riding habit and a heavy veil over her black hat, which she lifted upon greeting me. I hastily pushed the letter into my pocket and hurried to embrace her.

‘My dear child!’ she exclaimed. Her expression held delight but also anxiety.

‘Oh, madam, I have been consumed by my fears for you . . . and when I had no reply to my letter . . . I have never witnessed such horrors . . . the soldiers . . .’

My friend hastily placed her finger to her lips to silence me. She then laid a gentle hand upon my shoulder. ‘Hetty,’ she began, almost beneath her breath, ‘I am not at liberty to linger for long—’

‘Oh, and I am most grateful that you have called upon me!’

‘No, my dear, you mistake me.’ She spoke hurriedly, her tongue flying over her words. ‘I cannot remain in Paris. I am taking my leave for my house in Meudon, which is near Sèvres, just beyond the walls.’

‘But the barriers have all been shut.’

She touched my cheek with her grey glove. ‘I must get away. It is far too hazardous to remain here as a supporter of the King. I mean to go to Meudon on foot. There is a means of passing through the wall. Langlois has told me of a breach in it . . .’

‘But it is far too dangerous,’ I protested. She hushed me again.

‘If I remain, I shall be harassed day and night. There are many in my section who do not regard me fondly. Perhaps unwisely, I have never sought to hide my convictions. Now that I am no longer in favour with Orléans, I have few protectors from those who would seek to accuse me,’ she whispered, her eyes anxiously studying mine. ‘Now, Henrietta, I bid you hear me. I feel it is my duty to inform you that the embassies are to shut. I have had word that Lord Gower intends to quit France immediately. If it is your wish to take your leave and return to London there will soon be no passports issued and no means of departing. Do you wish to return to London, ma chère fille?’ she asked earnestly, taking my hands into hers.