He shook his head. ‘Of course not. If anything, I’ve come to wish you well.’

‘Surely you’re not going to walk to the altar on your own,’ Rosalind said in a whisper. ‘That’s unconventional even for you, Patsy.’

‘What do you suggest?’ she demanded fiercely. ‘My male relations are noticeable by their absence. Walter was supposed to be here but apparently he’s been delayed. What alternative do we have?’

‘I’ll give you away.’ Alexander proffered his arm. ‘It will be a pleasure.’

‘You abandoned me at the altar once before, Alexander Blanchard. I’m not going to give you the satisfaction of making a fool of me for a second time.’

‘I am sincere in my regard for you, Patsy.’ Alexander lowered his voice. ‘Do you want to make a display of yourself?’

‘Rosie, are you going to allow this?’ Patricia asked angrily. ‘If my former fiancé gives me away it will make me a laughing stock.’

‘The organist is waiting for his cue, Patsy,’ Rosalind said in a whisper. ‘The guests are growing restive, so perhaps you would do better to put your differences aside for a few minutes.’

‘I might have known you’d say that. You always had a soft spot for Alex.’

Aurelia nudged Patricia in the ribs. ‘For goodness’ sake get on with it, Patsy. No one will notice anything untoward if you don’t make a fuss.’

‘Yes, Patsy. Just act as if it’s nothing unusual,’ Rosalind added urgently. She glanced at Sir Michael, who was standing stiffly by the altar with his best man. He was not the husband she might have chosen for her sister, but perhaps an experienced older man might be able to deal with Patsy’s mercurial temperament.

‘I’d rather do it on my own,’ Patricia said, pouting.

Rosalind sighed. ‘It’s up to you, but I’m going to take my seat in the front pew.’ She walked off quickly without giving her sister a chance to argue, and at a signal from the vicar the organist struck up a solemn march.

Alexander led Patricia up the aisle preceded by Nancy strewing dried rose petals in their path, with Tommy walking beside her, looking very proud in his rented military uniform. Rosalind had a lump in her throat when she saw him and she wished with all her heart that Bertie could have been there. The family likeness was more pronounced now that Tommy was clean and well fed, and there was no doubt in her mind that he was her brother’s son. Bertie would be so proud if he could see him now.