Rosalind washed quickly in icy water and dressed with equal speed. She lit a candle and was on her way downstairs when she almost bumped into Agathe, who was staggering beneath the weight of a full coal scuttle.

‘I’m sorry, Madame. I am a little late this morning.’

‘I’m up early. I couldn’t sleep a moment longer.’

‘I’ve given Monsieur Alex some coffee, Madame. He called out to me as I was clearing the grate. I hope I did right.’

‘Of course you did. Thank you, Agathe. I’ll go to him now.’ Rosalind quickened her pace, heading for the drawing room. The newly lit fire had taken the chill off the gloomy room and she could just make out Alex’s bed by the window.

Alex raised his head. ‘Rosie, is that you?’

‘Agathe said you were awake. Are you in much pain?’

‘A bit, but she makes good coffee.’

‘Sister Dominique gave me some laudanum for you to take if the pain was too bad.’

‘I’m all right for now, but to tell the truth I’m starving. Does that fierce woman who keeps house allow you in the kitchen?’

‘We have an understanding,’ Rosalind said, chuckling. ‘Not a very good one, but we’ve called a truce today, or so I hope. I’m hungry, too.’ She moved to the bed and plumped up the pillows.

Alex caught her by the hand as she was about to back away. ‘Thank you for everything, Rosie. You can’t imagine how grateful I am to be out of that hospital ward.’ He raised her hand to his lips. ‘You smell wonderful,’ he added, smiling.

‘It’s called soap and water, Alex.’ Rosalind withdrew her hand gently. ‘Perhaps you would like me to help you to wash later.’

‘I think I can manage that on my own, but thank you for the offer,’ Alex said with a wry smile. ‘Will you have breakfast with me, please? Before Hester and Agathe take over and start ordering me about.’

‘I know you love all the attention, Alex. So don’t pretend otherwise.’

‘I like it when you make a fuss of me, Rosie.’