Chapter 2“It’s really true! I am on my way!”
Alida found herself saying the words over and over again as she stood in the Saloon of the Steamer that was carrying them to Kiel.
Even after they had left The Castle, until the ship actually sailed, Alida felt as if she was holding her breath.
There was always the chance that her uncle might change his mind at the eleventh hour and she would not be allowed to accompany Mary.
The Duke had been in a querulous and disagreeable mood ever since the day of their departure had been decided until they said goodbye to him on the steps of The Castle.
Alida realised that it was in part because he was deeply disappointed at not being well enough to accompany his only daughter to St. Petersburg and see her married.
She could understand too that for th
