Sir Hugh takes a sip of tea. “Benedick always did have the ability to charm. But also to rub people up the wrong way.”

I eye him speculatively. “You know him well then?”

“I know his temper,” Sir Hugh says, his tone suddenly serious. “A troubled young man, very troubled. Though a promising artist now, I have heard.” He must notice my inquisitive look. “A sad story, I’m afraid. His mother, when she had him, was young and – well, she was unmarried—”

“I don’t think Bea needs to hear all this ancient history,” Filomena cuts in, and I am suddenly relieved. If I hear this story, I think, it should be from Ben.

I cast about for something else to say. “Are you staying here long?” I ask.

“That,” says Sir Hugh, “is something I was just discussing with Filomena.”

“I hope you will stay as long as you wish to!”

I didn’t hear Uncle Leo come in, and we all turn around at the sound of his voice. Frances drifts into the room behind him and folds herself into another chair, crossing one leg over the other. Leo lays a hand on Filomena’s shoulder. “It is an honour for us to have you both here,” he continues, his smile engulfing both Frances and Sir Hugh.

“You are much too kind,” Sir Hugh says. “However, as I was explaining to your charming fiancée, Frances and I have an important dinner to get to in just a couple of days’ time. I can say no more.” His tone is light, teasing.

“But why?” Uncle Leo frowns.

“Ignore him,” Frances says. “He’s enjoying being mysterious. The truth is that we are attending a small dinner being hosted by Benito.” I see Filomena’s hand go to her throat in a quick, unconscious gesture. “My late husband was, as you know, a great, personal friend of Mussolini’s, and he is in Rome this week.”

“An honour indeed,” Leo says, his eyes wide.

“You have met him yourself?” asks Sir Hugh.

Leo looks rather wistful. “I haven’t, no.”

Frances nods. “A marvellous man, and so charming. What he’s done for this country, well … we could use some of it back in England. Perhaps darling Oswald will be able to make some much-needed change there. You know,” she says slowly, tapping her chin, “you could come with us, as my guests, if you wish. That way I could introduce you to the man himself – it’s the least I can do after your gracious hospitality.”

Leo looks like a child at Christmas. “Visit Rome to meet with Mussolini?” he breathes. “We would love to, wouldn’t we, darling?” He turns his shining eyes on Filomena.

“What an opportunity.” Filomena’s voice is steady. “Regrettably, I must stay here with Hero and Bea.” She smiles at him. “But you must go, my love. We will be quite all right here for a week or two without you.”