‘I’ve told Ivy to bring me a tray in bed. Your papa knew that I have a delicate constitution, but no one else seems to care.’

Kate sighed and closed the door. Perhaps a visit to the vicarage might give her mother something else to think about.

Elaine Courtney gave them an effusive welcome and Kate could see that her mother was delighted, even though she managed to maintain a casual outward appearance, accepting compliments with a modest smile. They were shown into what was obviously the best parlour with its carefully arranged furniture and heavy red velvet curtains that matched the upholstery on the sofa and chairs. The scent from vases filled with garden flowers was overpowered by the smell of the camphor, commonly used to keep moths at bay. Knowing that her mother prided herself on her sensitivity to strong odours of any kind, Kate could only hope that this one had gone unnoticed. She glanced anxiously at her mother, but Arabella was smiling graciously.

‘What a charming room,’ Arabella said smoothly. ‘How kind of you to invite us to your home, Mrs Courtney.’

‘My dear lady, it is so good of you to come. We are a small community, but I have a group of very good ladies who get together weekly to do good works. Your daughter tells me that is what you do so well in London.’

‘We have had some success,’ Arabella said modestly. ‘Maybe I can give you some fresh ideas, if you think they will be well received.’

‘Oh, yes. I can guarantee that my ladies will hang on your every word, Mrs Martin.’

‘It’s Lady Martin,’ Arabella said firmly. ‘My daughter obviously forgot to mention the fact.’

‘I do beg your pardon, your ladyship.’ Elaine shot a reproachful look in Kate’s direction. ‘I would be honoured if you would meet my committee. Would you be free tomorrow afternoon?’

‘I’m sure I could manage that.’ Arabella turned to Kate, eyebrows raised. ‘Have I any other appointments for tomorrow?’

‘No, Mama.’ Kate maintained a straight face although she was tempted to giggle. She could tell that her mother was enjoying every moment of basking in Elaine Courtney’s undisguised admiration.

‘Then I would be pleased to attend. I was planning on returning to London, but another day in the country will be quite pleasant.’

‘I’ll ring for tea. You do take tea, don’t you, Lady Martin? I could offer you coffee or chocolate, if you prefer.’

‘Tea will be delightful,’ Arabella said automatically. She stared past her hostess, frowning. ‘Who is that person peering in through your window, Mrs Courtney?’

Elaine and Kate turned their heads to look, and Elaine threw up her hands. ‘That is my son, Hedley. He’s a captain in the East India Company Bombay Army, but he was on leave at the start of the uprising and has not yet been recalled for service.’