The Duchess stared at her.
“A nonsensical suggestion,” she snapped. “The child was drowned.”
“Was her body recovered?” Iona asked.
The Duchess put out her hand.
“Let me see that letter.”
Iona handed it to her.
The Duchess slit open the envelope and drew out the closely written sheets of paper. She read them through carefully then lifted a small gold bell from the table beside her. It made a musical tinkle as she shook it. She looked again at the sheets of paper in her hand and then up at Iowa.
“A pretty story!” she sneered. “You have a great deal to gain if this is proved to be the truth.”
“I suppose so,” Iona agreed gravely.
“There is no need to look so innocent,” the Duchess said sarcastically. “You are doubtless well aware that the eldest daughter of the Duke of Arkrae on reach
