‘Don’t talk to me in that tone of voice, Kate. I don’t think I’m going to like it here.’

‘We haven’t much choice, Mama.’

‘I’m going to tell Goodfellow to drive me back to Finsbury Square in the morning. I’d rather face that dreadful creature Monks than be marooned here with that woman and the concertina girl. Heaven knows what it will be like when there are dozens of children running round this dreadful old mausoleum.’

‘We’ll see how you feel after a good night’s sleep.’ Kate guided her mother to the staircase. When they reached the first floor she could see an open door. ‘That must be your room.’

‘Not for long,’ Arabella said gloomily. ‘I expect the bed is damp.’

Martha emerged from the room carrying an armful of bedding. ‘A little notice would have been helpful, Miss Martin. This isn’t a hostelry.’

‘We came at Sir Harry’s invitation,’ Kate said firmly. ‘Tomorrow morning you and I will settle down and see what arrangement can be made to employ extra help.’

Martha eyed her warily. ‘It sounds as if you might be here for some time, Miss Martin.’

‘I’m afraid that is a matter beyond my control.’

‘Are we to stand here all night, discussing our business with a servant?’ Arabella demanded crossly.

‘Your room is ready, your ladyship.’ Martha tossed her head and stomped off in the direction of the back stairs.

‘Come along, Mama.’ Kate ushered her mother into the bedroom. ‘Thank you, Martha,’ she called over her shoulder.

‘Don’t pander to her.’ Arabella came to a halt, gazing round the shadowy room with obvious distaste. ‘I’ll sleep here tonight because there’s no alternative, but I’m leaving tomorrow, with or without you, Kate.’

Chapter Fourteen

Kate’s room was situated at the front of the house, overlooking the carriage sweep, although by the time she was ready for bed she was too tired to care which direction it faced. Jenny had made up a truckle bed in the adjoining dressing room. She could have chosen a much larger room on the top floor, but Kate realised that Jenny was nervous of sleeping on her own, and she was happy to have her company.