‘Not now, ma’am. Claude and I have been discussing the present situation.’ Felicia turned to Patricia with a tender smile. ‘We know how worried you are, darling. Anyone in your position would be fraught with anxiety, but we have a suggestion.’ She held up her hand as Patricia attempted to interrupt. ‘No, let me speak. The wedding is booked and the guests are on their way here from all over the county, weather permitting. Claude and I will take your place at the altar, Patsy, darling. We intended to be married very soon and it’s a pity to cancel the nuptials and all the arrangements that have been put in place. So we will get married and when Alex and Bertie get home you can have your day.’

There was a moment of silence before Patricia jumped to her feet with a cry of anguish. ‘Mama, how can you even think of such a thing? Alex promised to be here in time and he will be.’

‘My darling, it doesn’t seem likely. Claude has confirmed what Rosalind told us about the newspaper article. I pray that Alex and my son are unharmed, but they are in the army and they can’t do as they please. The chances of them getting here in such a short time are so remote that the only alternative would be to cancel the wedding and disappoint a great many people.’

‘Do you really intend to take their place, Mama?’ Rosalind demanded angrily. ‘Have a thought for Patsy’s feelings.’

‘You can’t take my wedding away from me,’ Patricia sobbed. ‘That’s cruel, Mama.’

‘It’s unacceptable.’ Lady Pentelow rose to her feet. ‘My grandson would not approve.’

‘Alexander is not here,’ Felicia said sharply. ‘He could have been here had he tried harder.’

‘That’s not fair, Mama.’ Rosalind stood up and went round the table to hug her sister. ‘Can’t you see that this is upsetting Patsy? She’s been sick with worry and you’re making it worse.’

‘I agree.’ Walter pushed back his chair. ‘I thought better of you, Mama. And you, Claude. Why did you allow her to do this?’

Claude shook his head. ‘I can understand how you all feel, but surely it’s a common-sense solution? The wedding was due to take place in a few days’ time. There’s no sign of the bridegroom and we have no way of communicating with him, even if we knew for certain where he is at present. Think of your mother for once, Patricia. Allow her to have her day, and yours will come soon enough when Alexander returns. If you cancel all the arrangements people might think you were jilted.’

Patricia covered her face with her hands. ‘It’s all so unbearable. I think I might die.’