‘If that’s what you want, then you must do so.’ Rosalind managed a smile with difficulty. ‘It’s entirely your choice, although I will miss you and so will Dolly.’

Aurelia shrugged. ‘Dolly is a tiny baby. She won’t even know I’ve gone.’

‘At least sit down and finish your meal,’ Hester said crossly. ‘You won’t bring Alexander home any faster by pacing the floor.’

‘I have a headache. I’m going to my room.’ Aurelia opened the door. ‘I want to know when Alex arrives. Please send a maid to tell me.’ She left the room and the door swung slowly on its hinges, closing with a loud click.

‘I for one shan’t be sad to see the back of that young madam,’ Hester said, wiping her lips on her napkin. ‘Lady Pentelow has spoiled her.’

‘Perhaps, but she’s as anxious about Piers as we are.’

‘I would be more worried about the criminals who will be causing us problems if the trial doesn’t go their way. Piers is to blame, Rosie. You need to stop forgiving him and make him take responsibility for his actions. He’s been nothing but trouble since that day when he first landed in the cove with the smugglers. You were almost killed when you fell onto the rocks.’

Rosalind laughed in spite of everything. ‘I had a bump on the head, and Piers carried me home. We were children then.’

‘Well, he’s not a child now, poppet. He’s a married man with a wife and child to support. Even if he turns Queen’s evidence it’s likely he will still have to serve part of his sentence. The judge is unlikely to set him free.’

Rosalind rose to her feet. ‘I challenge you to a game of backgammon, Hester. Let’s do something to pass the time, although I’m not sure I’ll be able to concentrate.’

‘All right, if it takes your mind off everything I’ll play, but I warn you I intend to win.’

The candles in the drawing room were guttering after they finished the last of three games, and Hester kept nodding off between throws of the dice. Rosalind shook her gently and suggested that it was time for bed.

Hester yawned. ‘I’m happy to wait up with you, poppet. Although you really should try to get some sleep. Alex might not arrive home until tomorrow, or the trial might not have ended.’

‘I’ll stay up a bit longer, Hester, but I want you to go to bed. You look exhausted.’

Hester heaved herself from her chair. ‘I must admit I’m tired, but if you need me in the night just call me.’

‘I will, of course. Good night, Hester. Sleep tight.’

‘That’s a very vulgar term, Rosie. Your mama would not think it proper.’