Felicia tossed her head. ‘I should think so, too. She is a servant and always will be. They have a different way of looking at things from us, Rosalind. You would do well to remember that. Keep them in their place and the household runs smoothly. Treat them like an equal at your peril.’

Rosalind was tempted to argue, but she managed to control the urge. She knew from experience that nothing would change her mother’s mind once she had made it up on any subject.

She rose to her feet. ‘Your room should be ready now, Mama. I’m sure you would like to go upstairs and rest before dinner.’

‘I’ll go when I’m ready, thank you, Rosalind. By the way, I need someone to take care of me while I’m here. My maid, Smithers, abandoned me to marry some totally unsuitable fellow – an Italian who owned a restaurant near the cathedral in Milan. It won’t last, and I told her so, but she was adamant that he was the love of her life.’

‘I hope she’ll be very happy,’ Rosalind said firmly. ‘Tilly has unpacked some of your garments, Mama. She’s very young and still learning the duties of chambermaid, but she is very willing.’

‘I suppose she’ll do for the short time we intend to stay here. Winter in England is abominable. We plan to leave as soon as the festive season ends.’

‘Really, Mama? Where are you off to next?’ Patricia asked eagerly.

‘I don’t know yet. Claude handles all my business affairs. I dare say he has something in mind for me.’ Felicia turned to him with an expectant smile. ‘Preferably somewhere warmer than this foggy little island.’

‘Not at present, my love. Although I’m considering Paris.’

‘I do so love Paris. If you girls had not bound yourselves in matrimony you might have accompanied us to the city I adore. I could have found you rich husbands.’

‘I’m perfectly happy with Piers,’ Rosalind said sharply. ‘And Patsy loves Alex. He’s a fine man.’

‘I’m sure he is.’ Felicia did not sound convinced. ‘But there is no sign of the prospective bridegroom as yet, and where is your husband, Rosalind? Surely he ought to be at your side, helping with the preparations for your sister’s wedding? Or is the china clay business more exciting than married life?’

‘It’s the whisky talking, Rosie,’ Claude said hurriedly.

‘What did you say, Claude?’ Felicia stood up, swaying slightly.

‘I said I think you’ve had quite enough to drink, my love. You should rest before dinner. It was a long and tiring journey.’

‘But at least we are here.’ Felicia leaned on him as he proffered his arm. ‘Which is more than I can say for Piers Blanchard and the rest of his family.’

‘Come along, my love.’ Claude gave Rosalind an apologetic smile. ‘Are we in the usual room, Rosie?’