Kate had a sudden vision of the fighting she had witnessed outside her uncle’s palatial residence in Delhi, and she shuddered. ‘Then it’s time women stood up for themselves.’

‘Don’t let your father hear you saying things like that, Kate. He would be most displeased.’

‘Yes, Mama, I know.’ Kate bit back the harsh words that sprang to her lips. She was tired of seeing her mother browbeaten and bullied without uttering a word of reproach, but she also knew that nothing she could do or say would change either of her parents. ‘Is there anything I can do to help today? You really should rest.’

‘If you would speak to Cook and tell her what your papa has requested for dinner tonight that would be an enormous weight off my mind. I think I might go to my room and rest for a while longer. I’m sure Mrs Marsh can handle things perfectly well without me.’

‘Yes, of course.’ Kate stood up, leaving her food barely touched. ‘I’ll go now.’

‘You need not worry unduly about money, my dear,’ Arabella said hastily. ‘Despite what your papa said about his chambers’ finances, we still have an income from your late grandfather’s estate, although, of course, your uncle Edgar inherited the bulk of the fortune.’

‘That’s a comfort, Mama. At least I know that you will be looked after, no matter what.’ Kate left the room and headed along the corridor to the green baize door that separated the family above stairs from the servants’ quarters and kitchens.

A burst of steam enveloped her as she entered the large room in the basement. Cook was sprawled in a chair by the range while a young kitchen maid struggled to knead a large mound of bread dough.

‘Don’t tickle it, you stupid girl. Pummel the dough, pretend it is your worst enemy—’ Cook broke off as she spotted Kate standing in the doorway. She heaved herself to her feet. ‘Excuse me, Miss Kate. I didn’t see you there.’

There was a sudden awkward silence, and a young slavey emerged from the steamy scullery, wiping her hands on her already wet apron. Kate held up her hand. ‘Please don’t stop on my account. I’ve come to give you the order for dinner tonight, Mrs Pugh.’

Cook swallowed convulsively and the colour deepened on her red cheeks. ‘I’ve already started boiling the ox head, Miss Kate. I haven’t had time to order meat from the butcher.’

‘My father has requested lamb collops followed by apple pie and custard. I’m sure that isn’t beyond the bounds of possibility.’

‘But the stew is already simmering on the hob, miss. We wasn’t expecting you until tomorrow and I got no one to send to market to get what I need to make such a meal.’