Miss Barnet looked up from the garment she was mending, her brow creased in a puzzled frown. ‘Bereavement can take people in many ways, but I thought that her ladyship was being particularly stalwart, all things considered.’

‘An unfortunate incident occurred that has set her back somewhat. I want you to go to her room and pack everything she might need for a reasonably long stay in the country. We’ll be leaving this afternoon.’

Miss Barnet’s eyebrows curved in astonishment. ‘This afternoon?’

‘Yes, that’s correct. I think you deserve some time for yourself. I will pay you, of course, but perhaps you have some relatives you would like to visit?’

‘But Lady Martin needs me. Who will look after her if I’m not there?’

‘I’m sure we’ll manage, although of course you will be missed. You must leave a forwarding address and I’ll notify you when we decide to return to London.’ Kate was not in the mood to argue and she left the room, to find Jenny waiting in the passage.

‘What’s going on, miss?’ Jenny demanded anxiously. ‘Ma told me that you’d come looking for Miss Barnet. Something’s up – I know it.’

Kate took her by the arm and led her along the corridor so that there was no possibility of Miss Barnet overhearing their conversation.

‘Monks was here, Jenny. Mama and I have to leave London for a while and I want you to come with us. You know too much and you might also be in danger.’

‘Are we going to Warren House?’

‘I think that’s the safest place. I want you to pack for me and for yourself. Miss Barnet will see to my mother’s things, but I have to go out. I need to see Trader before we leave town.’

Jenny nodded. ‘I understand. I’ll make sure everything is ready for your return, but what shall I tell Ma?’

‘You’ll think of something,’ Kate said, chuckling. ‘Make is sound convincing, but don’t alarm her, Jenny. It’s safer for everyone here if the servants know nothing.’

Jenny grinned. ‘I’ve had plenty of practice. I used to tell Ivy’s nippers all sorts of tales to keep them amused when we was at the soup kitchen.’ Her smile faded. ‘I just feel sorry for all those folk we had to let down. I hope they found somewhere else to go for a bowl of soup.’

‘I’ve made a donation to a small charity who have started something similar in Spitalfields, so I hope the people we’ve helped will go there. I’m off to the prison to see Harry Trader, but I’ll be back as soon as I can.’