I apologise for swearing, Grandmama.’ There was the sound of a heavy sigh. ‘But I am sure you will admit, it has been something of a trying day.’ ‘I realise that. And I am sure we are all anxious to know why Mrs Leighton fainted, but I really do feel it is best if I am the one to continue to sit with her rather than you. As you instructed, Bristol is giving Amanda her first riding lesson and Jeffries has taken the visiting groom to the servants’ hall for some tea, but I am sure the young man will wish to be on his way soon.’ ‘Not until after I have questioned him.’ Elena had been awake for the past several minutes, but had continued to keep her lids firmly closed, so as not to alert grandmother and grandson to the fact that she was no longer lying unconscious upon the bed. In truth, also in an effort to delay having to face the questions which were sure to be asked of her. She had fainted because she had recognised the ‘visiting groom’ and, despite the changes in her appearance and circumstances, she knew that Jeremiah had recognised her, too, as Magdelena Matthews.
