CHAPTER NINETo outward appearances, Robina appeared to be the compliant stepdaughter. That morning over breakfast, she informed her stepmother she would tell the Earl that very day that she could no longer work for him.
“I shall explain it to him in person,” said Robina, “I think that he deserves that much.”
“That is so thoughtful of you, Robina,” she replied with a triumphant smile, “and so you will be at the Castle today?
“Don’t mention that another is wooing you as it may offend him. If indeed he has proposed to you, as have you suggested, you must make quite certain that you don’t upset him in any way as he is so influential in this County. Your father would be most displeased if he came home to find he has been ostracised through your actions.”
Robina was surprised that her stepmo
