It was almost a cry.
“His Lordship, I understand, had a business engagement. He left a note for your Ladyship as he was unable to say goodbye to you.”
He brought it on a silver salver and handed it to Pandia and she was aware as she took it that her hands were trembling.
She opened it and saw there were only a few lines. Then she read,
“I have left for London early so that I can be certain of bringing you the book that is important to both of us. I will see you at teatime. I know you understand.
J. Stone.”
For a moment it was like a stab from a knife to realise that he had written to her so formally. Then she understood.
It was perhaps his signature which made her aware that he was thinking of her reputation as the Countess of Linbourne and had therefore written in a manner which no
