Trader shook his head. ‘Spears will let you in. That’s what he’s paid to do, amongst other things. We’ll give it a trial for a month. If at the end of that time either of us is dissatisfied, the arrangement will be terminated. Is that what you consider fair, Miss Martin?’

‘Perfectly,’ she said briskly. ‘I’d like to start tomorrow, unless you have any objections.’

‘You may begin whenever it suits you. I’ll watch your progress with interest.’

He opened the street door, bowing her out with exaggerated gallantry.

Kate arrived home to find her mother in the entrance hall with a small, thin woman of indeterminate age and Henry standing stiffly to attention. Judging by her mother’s expression, Kate knew she was in even more trouble.

‘Where have you been all morning, Kate? And why were you out on your own? You know that’s simply not done.’

‘I’m sorry, Mama. I had urgent business to attend to and you’ve demoted Jenny, so I don’t have a personal maid.’

‘Nonsense. Of course Jenny is your maid,’ Arabella tossed her head. ‘Miss Barnet will wonder what sort of establishment she has come into if we cannot afford such a small luxury.’

Miss Barnet blushed and bobbed a curtsey. ‘No, indeed, my lady. Such a thought never occurred to me.’

Arabella turned to Henry, frowning. ‘Why are you standing there like a dummy? I told you to show Miss Barnet to her room, and take her luggage with you.’

‘Yes, my lady.’ Henry clicked his heels together and picked up two large carpet bags. ‘This way, if you please, Miss Barnet.’

‘You should have been here to assist me, Kate. You knew that Miss Barnet was starting today. I was relying on you to explain her duties. You simply cannot come and go as you please without telling anyone.’

Kate took off her bonnet and looped her shawl over her arm. ‘As a matter of fact I am involved in some charity work, Mama. You told me that I ought to be doing something worthwhile, and that is what I went out for this morning.’

‘I feel quite faint after dealing with the servants on my own. I’ll sip a glass of sherry wine while you tell me exactly what sort of charity work you’re involved in.’

‘Yes, Mama. Do you mind if I go to my room first and deposit my bonnet and shawl?’

‘I do mind, because you’ll stay there until it’s time for luncheon, and I won’t be any the wiser. You may ring for Jenny and she’ll see to your garments.’ Arabella stalked off towards the morning parlour.