The Duke walked towards the log fire to stand with his back to Shimona, looking down into it.
“Your father was perfectly right,” he said, “and I am sure that everything he heard about me was the truth. Come, we still have a long way to go before it gets dark.”
There was nothing Shimona could do but put on her cloak and follow him outside to where the phaetons were waiting.
There were fresh teams of horses belonging to the Duke to convey them, which she learnt were always kept ready on the road to Leicester in case at any time the Duke should require them.
Nanna was also waiting to see her into the phaeton.
“If it gets cold or begins to rain, Miss Shimona,” she said, “you’re to travel with me. I’ve no wish for you to get a chill.”
“I am very warm, thank you, Nanna,” Shimona replied, “
