I wait in London for my aunt and Marian to agree to visit but they do not. They prattle on in their letters filled with excuses. I send a note to Marian to say I will wait two more days to hear from her and should very much like her to accompany me to Paris. I wait three days and receive no reply, so book myself onto the crossing and head down to the coast without her. Why will she not come? I could do with some company, even hers. She needs to leave Shibden and Halifax some time or other. I wonder if perhaps she has met someone in my absence? Or is that rather far-fetched? I realise it was ten years ago that Marian and Father last came to Paris. My memory may not be perfect but I’m sure we enjoyed ourselves. If only I had my diary from the time to consult – but they are all safely tucked away back at Shibden.

I immerse myself in travel; it is my only pleasure left, it seems. I arrive in Paris and stay in rooms I have used before and re-visit my familiar haunts. I walk over the grand bridges, go to the galleries and museums and marvel at the peculiarities deemed worthy of immortality, of reflecting cultures which are now lost, of reminding us of the Earth’s journey through time and how fleeting our own existence is. I eat and drink more than my fill and buy gifts to send back to Aunt and Marian to show them what they are missing. A rare good fortune crosses my path as an old acquaintance introduces me to a lady from the Danish Court who invites me to Copenhagen. I do not hesitate to accept her offer. I will be an English novelty for her to show off to her friends, no doubt. The next moment we are on a ship again and I am presented at the Danish Court!

It is enjoyable but solitary in Denmark. I do not speak the language well and being an English novelty leaves me feeling disheartened. I am not heard of. If only I had a title! ‘Miss’ only gives away my singleness. I dream of introducing myself as Doctor Lister, but it is just that: a dream. I am introduced to so many people, but which of them will I ever really know, will ever know me? Which of them could become part of my life forever?