CHAPTER SEVEN“I think I will go upstairs and rest,” the Duchess said as she and Giona walked from the dining room.
“I think you – would be wise – ma’am.”
Giona spoke in a hesitating voice that made the Duchess look at her sharply.
“A rest would doubtless do you good,” she said. “You are looking as pale as when you first came here.”
“I think it is the – heat,” Giona answered quickly. “I will go into the garden and get some fresh air.”
“Yes, do that,” the Duchess agreed. “Perhaps my grandson will be here at teatime to tell us what has delayed him.”
Giona did not say anything and when the Duchess had walked slowly up the stairs she turned and went onto the terrace.
She had taxed her self-control almost to breaking point in playing the part the Duke had demanded of her.
When she had go
