He said now to Alvina,
“You will have to go to London for one thing, if nothing else to buy yourself new clothes.”
He spoke without thinking that it might sound an insult and, seeing a flush appear on Alvina’s face, he added,
“Perhaps I should have told you before that you are very lovely, but even the most beautiful picture needs the right frame to show it off.”
“I have a feeling,” Alvina said slowly, “that you are flattering me to get your own way. I am not used to compliments and so I am suspicious of them. Although I would love some new clothes, I am afraid if I move away from here you will never let me come back.”
She spoke lightly, the Duke was aware, but there was undoubtedly a quiver of fear beneath the surface.
“I promise you,” he said quickly, “that The Castle is your home
