I did not answer the flustered Flaghac, but reached for the leather case and lifted the lid. An enamel miniature portrait of the Duc d’Orléans, set within a circle of pearls, stared back at me. It was no larger than a coin and had been threaded through with a red, white and blue grosgrain ribbon, so it might be worn as a bracelet. It was an exceptional gift, and one which would have cost the bearer a considerable sum. Such a prize would not be awarded without a good deal of calculated thought.

I handed the box to Madame, who pursed her lips. ‘It is a fine piece. A costly one. She is most intent on making your acquaintance, Mademoiselle Lightfoot.’

I was in part flattered and yet at the same time somewhat wary and uneasy. I could not begin to think what the infamous Madame de Buffon desired of me, nor did I believe her solicitations to be entirely genuine.

‘Surely Madame Elliot has not contrived this?’ I looked to La Flaghac questioningly.

‘Why ever should you think she would, ma chère? La Buffon is her most vicious rival.’

I searched the grande dame’s expression, now with greater puzzlement.

‘Because . . . because . . . she has sent all of you to me. It is merely one of her charitable acts, so that I should earn back what I had lost when my jewels were stolen. You . . . All of her acquaintance have made a contribution so that I might live here and repair my fortune without the need to—’

There, I broke off, for Madame de Flaghac appeared entirely bemused.

‘Contribution?’ Her brow folded.

For a moment I believed my French had failed me. It was not without its flaws, in spite of my time upon the continent.

‘Charity. A collection was made.’

Madame shook her head slowly. ‘Ma chère mademoiselle, I know nothing of a collection. Is this what Madame Elliot told to you?’

I stared at her.

‘Yes.’

‘Well, it is not the truth.’ She settled against the back of the chair as if she required the support of it to convey her news. ‘Madame Elliot has sold some jewels. A sapphire of great worth, I believe.’

At that, I gasped. I pressed my hand to my throat.

‘But that cannot be! I would never have permitted it had I known . . .’

‘Which is precisely why I suppose she did not inform you. It is her nature, ma chère. She would make any sacrifice for those people and causes she deems of value.’

I felt for the chair beside Madame de Flaghac and folded myself into it.