He shook hands warmly with Euan, who was a strong-looking man with an intelligent expression.
“Any wee thing your Lordship wants, you have only to ask him for it,” Ross said.
“I am very grateful to you,” Talbot replied, “and I hope you will tell me everything you think I should know as regards the running of The Castle and the people who serve in it. I know I can rely on you and I would appreciate your complete and utter frankness.”
He knew by the expression on Ross’s face that he had said the right thing.
As the old man left, he said to Euan,
“That applies also to you, as I shall be seeing more of you than I will any of the other staff. I hope you will be frank enough to tell me if you think I am doing anything wrong or upsetting anyone unnecessarily.”
He smiled before he said,
“Yo
