‘After a lifetime of having no choice but to do things I have no liking for, such as being at sea for years on end, this is something I know in my bones I will be able to do well. Or at least I will be able to do it well with your help, because as well as all the socializing that goes with being a viceroy, the position also needs organizational skills, which is something I struggle with. However, I know you are ace at that kind of thing. Motherdear is always saying how you manage all the paperwork involved with your mother’s charities, and how you write all the reports and often chair committee meetings.’

May was about to protest that the work she did for the Needlework Guild was hardly preparation for organizing the workload of a viceroy, but before she could do so, he continued, ‘As Viceroy and Vicereine, we’ll make a splendid team, May; and in a vicereine’s robes and coronet you are going to look superb. And so what do you think? Isn’t it just the most staggering news?’

It certainly was. May’s head was spinning. Four weeks ago her future had been so bleak that she had been planning to leave England for Florence and embark on a life completely outside the royal circle. Now, she would not only be Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Clarence and Avondale, and a future Queen of England and Empress of India, but she had the prospect of being Vicereine of Ireland to look forward to. It was a dizzying thought.

Another soon followed. The Irish Sea conveniently separated Dublin Castle from Marlborough House, Sandringham and her future mother-in-law. Until now she had always regarded her Aunt Alix with affection, but that had been before she had witnessed how unnaturally possessive she could be with Eddy. The sea would ensure it was a possessiveness that she wouldn’t have to endure too often.

‘It’s wonderful news, Eddy.’ She squeezed his hands tightly. ‘I’ve never been happier. Not ever!’

Sliding his hands around her waist, he kissed her with passionate gratitude, knowing the only reason he wasn’t utterly daunted at the prospect of becoming a viceroy was because, when he did, May would be at his side. And with May at his side, he knew he would not only have a loving wife, but a friend who would always be there for him and would never let him down.

When they left the library and entered a drawing room thronged with New Year guests, Georgie immediately sought her out for a private word. It was their first meeting since his recovery from typhoid, and his usual ruddy complexion was pale.