CHAPTER THREEThe next day dawned and still Novella was most concerned about her mother’s condition. Creeping into her bedroom as soon as she awoke, Novella found her coughing a great deal.
Mrs. Armitage was already by the Countess’s side, with a cup of tea for her.
“She is no better, my Lady,” she whispered, as Novella’s mother struggled to sit up and take a sip of her tea.
“We should send for the doctor at once,” replied Novella, wringing her hands.
“But his Lordship – he has said not to unless – ”
“I do not care what his Lordship says, send the stable lad to fetch the doctor at once. He can take Folly – she is the swiftest horse we have.”
“Very good, my Lady.”
“And Mrs. Armitage – if his Lordship queries it, tell him that I will settle Doctor Jones’s account myself.”
“Yes, my Lad
