‘I hope this portrait brings us luck,’ Blanche continues. ‘We could use some good fortune after such a tumultuous year. I pray every day for Maarten’s health and my own, and that of my parents, too, wherever they are. But Maarten says a portrait is a symbol of unification between a husband and wife. It is like declaring our vows again before God, our intention to start a family…’ She continues to chatter about babies and families and God, reminding Anna of a bird, a lark perhaps, singing the same tune over and over. Kneeling, Anna holds out the girl’s stockings so she can slip her long, skinny legs into the fabric and, as she does, something Blanche has said finally catches her attention.

‘Did you hear about Lady Killigrew?’

‘No,’ Anna says, straightening. ‘What about her, Madam?’

Blanche stifles a giggle. ‘I shouldn’t gossip. Especially not to the help.’

Anna ignores this; she’s heard worse descriptions of servitude.

Blanche continues, oblivious. ‘Lady Killigrew is with child. The news is all over court. It must belong to Prince Charles. Lord Killigrew has been delayed in France for the past year. They are saying Lady Killigrew will have to be sent away until the infant is born. Queen Elizabeth is displeased with Lady Killigrew’s indiscretion.’

Anna mulls the news over. It makes sense to her now why Lady Killigrew has not responded to any of Anna’s entreaties to send one of her servants along to Sterrenwijck to collect the finished portrait Catharina painted of her on behalf of Queen Elizabeth. The Queen would not want a reminder of her nephew’s bad judgement. But how unsurprising, to learn that Lady Killigrew is to be sent away to deal with the consequences. Imagine giving birth alone, she thinks, far from your friends and family. Utterly disgraced. Meanwhile, Prince Charles will no doubt find another paramour to lavish his attentions upon. The idea turns Anna’s stomach. Why are women always the ones who must take responsibility for men’s foolish actions? She cannot say this to Blanche. Although the girl is only a few years younger than herself, Anna feels the difference in their ages keenly. Blanche has also faced hardship – the loss of her family’s estates and titles – but she has rebounded with a favourable marriage while Anna must rely on the connections she has made in The Hague to support her.

‘There, Madam,’ she says. ‘You’re dressed. And you look as elegant as always.’

She brushes down her apron and turns, preparing to call Catharina over and let her know the girl is ready for her sitting. She’s taken aback when Blanche suddenly clasps her hand and draws her back towards the window. Blanche’s palm is damp and clammy and Anna feels uneasy, knowing of the girl’s illness a few weeks earlier.