The horses drew up with what was almost a flourish outside the front door of The Castle.
The whole staff, including the new members, were waiting to welcome them.
The Earl came out first and a cheer went up and one of the younger maids who had only just arrived threw some petals over him.
He was waiting for the bride to move across the carriage towards the door, but she took a long time about it.
Then, as he put out his hand to help her alight, she stumbled and he knew that she was about to fall.
With the deftness and quickness of a man of action he caught her.
Then, as her head fell against his shoulder, he realised that she had fainted.
There was a silence among those who had been waiting to cheer him.
He walked up the steps carrying his bride, her face still covered by her veil.
