‘Of course I’d like you to come, but who would look after the children?’

‘Tilly is a good girl. She can stay here overnight. The nippers love her and Tilly loves them. I could do with a bit of excitement. You can count me in.’

Kate left Ivy’s cottage filled with plans for the upcoming event. She went straight to the stables to see Goodfellow, and she gave him permission to purchase a more suitable mount for Spears at the next horse sale. According to Goodfellow, there was an ageing horse that would do very well for Spears until he was a more proficient rider, and Kate left him, satisfied that it was a job well done. Joe had the help he needed and Spears had found employment and a more healthy way of life. Out of politeness, Kate called briefly on Marie Goodfellow, who was as loud and cheerful as ever, although she did complain about the size of their cottage and the smell from the stables. Kate nodded politely and when Marie stopped to draw breath Kate took the opportunity to wish her well and backed away. She returned to the house where she found Martha looking ill at ease.

‘Will you be coming back to Warren House soon, Miss Kate?’ Martha eyed her curiously. ‘I mean it’s not my place to ask questions, but Lady Lyndon didn’t give me any instructions when she left. It was all a bit sudden.’

‘Yes, I know it was, but you mustn’t worry, Martha.’

‘I’m sorry, miss. But of course I’m concerned. I’ve served Lady Lyndon and the family all my life. If she isn’t coming back ever, will they sell the property? It does happen, you know. My friend Elsie Brown used to work at Chestnut Grove and the owners fell upon hard times. The property was sold, and with no family of her own, poor Elsie ended up in the workhouse.’

‘That won’t happen to Warren House, I can promise you that, and should Lady Lyndon decide to sell, which she won’t, I would buy it myself. I love this place and the village. I’d be more than happy to make my home here.’

Martha breathed a sigh and smiled with tears in her eyes. ‘Thank you, Miss Kate. That’s put my mind at rest. Arthur and I are too old to start afresh with a new family. It would be my pleasure to serve you and Sir Harry if you …’ Martha covered her mouth with her hand. ‘I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to presume.’

Kate laughed. ‘You’re the second person today who has suggested that Harry and I might make a match. Don’t worry, Martha. If we do decide to marry, you will be among the first to know.’