‘It seems that what we need most is someone who can speak English,’ Rosalind said warily.

Madame wrote something on a notebook that she produced from a pocket in her apron and handed it to Father Laurent. He passed it to Rosalind. ‘That is the rent for a month. I gather that it is for the rooms only. It does not include meals or coal and candles.’

Hester peered over Rosalind’s shoulder. ‘Robbery,’ she said sharply. ‘The woman is taking advantage of our situation.’

‘Hush, Hester.’ Rosalind folded the paper and tucked it into her reticule. ‘I will pay what she asks, but what can we do about taking on a servant, Father? It’s getting late and we need food and heat.’ She took out her purse and selected a half-sovereign. ‘I only have English money, Father, but this is gold and I think it will more than cover our rent, and perhaps some coal and candles to start off with.’

Father Laurent took the coin. ‘Madame is a simple woman, but she understands the power of gold. I think the least she can do is to provide you with heat and light.’ He turned to Madame Planche, holding the coin just out of reach, as he spoke. She shot a calculating glance at Rosalind but she nodded and held out her hand. With the money clutched in her fist she hurried from the room.

‘She will light a fire in here and in your bedrooms, and she will provide you with candles but you will have to look after yourselves.’ Father Laurent lowered his voice, glancing anxiously over his shoulder as if expecting to find someone eavesdropping. ‘I should warn you that Madame Planche is a notoriously bad cook. Need I say more?’

‘No, indeed. Thank you for the warning, Father.’ Rosalind examined the contents of her purse. ‘Do you think you could help us to find a maid, who understands English, Father? I can afford to pay someone and we need to eat.’

‘Of course, Madame Blanchard. As it happens I do know a young woman who would be more than willing to earn a little extra, and she speaks English quite well.’

‘I hope she’s not related to Madame Skinflint,’ Hester said, sniffing. ‘I’m hungry.’

Father Laurent walked swiftly to the doorway. ‘Don’t worry. The young lady I mentioned has been trained by my housekeeper. Agathe Boudon was left at the convent when she was a baby, and brought up by the nuns. She came to me when she was twelve and has been with us ever since. She is now a young woman and she will serve you well during your stay.’

‘Thank you, Father,’ Rosalind said earnestly. ‘I don’t know what we would have done without your help.’

Father Laurent looked round the room and shuddered. ‘I hope I’ve done the right thing by bringing you here, but I had very little choice.’