He had now reached a decision that he was sure he would not regret.
He rode back to the stables intending to breakfast early so as not to be late for the hunt meeting, which was to take place at St. Albans.
He was no longer feeling depressed, nor did he feel angry.
‘Everything will be plain sailing from now on,’ he told himself, ‘and, if Sedela has damaged Esther’s reputation, I will immediately make reparation by announcing our engagement in The Gazette.’
He ate his breakfast hurriedly.
Then he left in his father’s ancient phaeton, which was waiting at the front of the house.
It was drawn by two good horses, but he had already decided to buy some better ones.
He was looking forward to riding immediately after luncheon the two that Roger Bayford had bought on his behalf. He was too
