As she gave a little sob and fumbled in the sash she wore round her waist for her handkerchief, the Duke took one from the pocket of his robe and held it out to her. She took it and wiped her eyes with the soft white linen that was scented with eau de cologne.
As if she knew that he was waiting for her to continue, she went on,
“I think it was because Mama was so worried and because she had to be so careful of every penny we spent that she too became – ill and quickly – so quickly that we – could hardly realise that it was – happening when she died.”
Once again she put the handkerchief to her eyes and, when she took it away, the Duke said,
“I am deeply touched by your story, but because I know it is putting a great strain on you, I want you to be sensible and try to eat a little more.
