“I know just what it’s like,” I said. “I’m going through the same sort of thing. I’ve inherited this big house and there is very little for me to do when my husband is away. It’s lonely, isn’t it? Darcy was urging me to entertain—give luncheons and tea parties and get involved in the local society but it’s hard to take that first step.”

“It’s all right for you,” Rose said. “You’re a real lady, aren’t you. Anyone would be happy to come to your parties or to have you involved in their local charities. But me—everyone knows I was the cook’s daughter. They are polite enough to my face but I know what they are saying behind my back. Besides, we’re rather remote here. It’s mostly fishing families. It’s too bad that nobody actually lives at Trengilly anymore.”

“We heard it’s someone from London? A banker or something?” Belinda looked inquiringly at Rose.

“I’m not exactly sure. It’s mostly rumors floating around. Some say he’s Greek, others that he’s a Jewish financier. Stinking rich, wherever he comes from. Tony thinks he’s up to no good. Shady money. He’s had the whole interior redecorated. I believe he’s only been down a couple of times. He brings a house party with him and all his food and drink. The locals aren’t very pleased about that. They get nothing out of it. Not a good way to endear oneself. But he probably doesn’t care.”

“If he’s in banking, presumably Tony knows him?” I said. “Didn’t you say his father was in something like that?”

“Until he lost it all,” she replied. “Tony’s parents upped and moved to Italy. They live quite simply in Florence these days. I’ve only met them once. I suggested to Tony that we go for a visit this winter, but he seems so occupied with all the business of the estate.” She looked at Belinda. “He’ll be so surprised when he sees you’re here, Belinda. I’m sure he won’t recognize you. You are so glamorous these days.”

“Thank you,” Belinda said. “One tries.”

“Belinda is starting her own fashion house,” I said. “She’s been working in Paris.”

“Fancy that.” This sounded like something Queenie would have said. The wistful servant trying to picture something beyond her comprehension.

“Oh, I see my bag’s already been brought up,” Belinda said. “So is it all right if I take this room? Or do you want it, Georgie?”

“No, please take it. I really don’t mind where I sleep,” I said.

“That other one is just as nice,” Rose said. “I’ll show you.”