The PlansTony was a bit too thrilled at the prospect. “I’ve wanted to bring to account those who’ve shunned you for some time. Make a list of who insulted you and what they’ve done. I’ll have them swear loyalty to us. We won’t issue a formal announcement. But when they see with their own eyes that I have an heir approaching, they’ll have to choose: me, or the Red Dog Gang.”
“One of those sorts of invitations difficult to refuse, then.”
“Entirely.”
“I have a few I’d like to invite, if I may.”
Tony smiled warmly. “Of course. I want your friends round you. Invite whoever you wish.”
* * *
The next day, Tony came home early, arriving in time for tea. After tea, which we had on the veranda, he took my hand, and we strolled through the gardens together. In the far meadow past, men stood upo
