Mr Savill had requested an audience with the ambassador, but instead we had been delivered to what seemed to be a library. The walls were lined with cases of books and tables stacked with ledgers. A young gentleman with curled hair and spectacles stepped from behind one and introduced himself as Mr Huskisson, secretary to Lord Gower.

Before I could speak a word, the Irishman launched upon my tale. He told it plainly enough, with all of its fibs attached. He explained that my husband, the Baron Allenham, had made for Paris about a month ago, and had not been heard from since. He then paused, before continuing:

‘Lady Allenham is certain that he was received here, and resides with Lord Gower and Lady Sutherland . . .’

I felt my throat tighten and my heart leap.

Mr Huskisson examined me quizzically from over the rims of his spectacles.

‘I . . . I am afraid your ladyship is mistaken. To my knowledge, his lordship has not been received by the ambassador, nor has he attempted to call upon him.’

For a moment, I was uncertain if I had heard his reply correctly. I stood for a spell, not knowing how I might respond.

It was then the secretary unlocked a case of books behind him and laid two ledgers upon the table before us. The first of these he opened, and ran his finger down a lengthy column of neatly written names. He turned several pages and repeated his search, before shutting the book.

‘I fear I am correct, Lady Allenham. Your husband has not paid call upon Lord Gower, nor any person at this embassy.’

I felt Andrew Savill’s hard gaze pressing into me. I dared not meet his eye.

‘But, Mr Huskisson, this is most peculiar . . . You see, he was, prior to coming to Paris, engaged with His Majesty’s mission at Brussels, under the Viscount Torrington . . . I was of the understanding that he was to perform the same role here, but under the direction of Lord Gower.’

The secretary now appeared quite puzzled indeed. He rumpled his brow.

‘If I may enquire, my lady, did he inform you as much?’

‘Why . . . yes, yes . . . in a fashion. He . . . implied that he had received instructions to remain at Paris . . . Why, Mr Huskisson, from whom else might he have received such an order but Lord Gower?’

‘Madam, if I may . . . I intend no disrespect to your ladyship but I am privy to all of Lord Gower’s affairs and correspondence, and not once have I heard mention of Lord Allenham’s name. You are certain he was at Brussels with Lord Torrington?’ Mr Huskisson enquired.

‘Of that I am most certain, sir, for I resided there with him,’ I responded, my voice quivering. ‘Why, I cannot believe it to be true . . . How could this be so . . .?’