“My father died three months ago. You will therefore understand the reason why I have not invited a party to meet you, ma’am.”
“Your father is dead! But I did not know – I-I do not think the – Emperor was aware of this.”
“No. I have not written to the Emperor. I was abroad when my father died and I have had so many things to see to since I returned that you must excuse my remission.”
“Perhaps, in that case, it is inconvenient for us to be here,” Gisela said, striving to find the right words, “Had we known, we would not have intruded on your grief.”
“That was why I did not mention it,” Lord Quenby replied. “May I perhaps explain all this a little later? Maybe you would like to see your room, ma’am, and rest before dinner.”
“I shall be glad to do so,” Gisela agreed. “And the Countess, h
