If Cinderella was based on a true story, Lady Du Bellay would be my fairy grandmother. As we pulled up to the extensive gravel driveway to Elstree, I imagined myself in a carriage made from a pumpkin. That is how magical this moment felt, almost surreal but exciting and wonderful, nonetheless.
After my grandmother accepted the invitation by return telegram, stating that she was bringing a companion with her, the last few hours passed in a blur. A very nice older lady called Francine had come to measure me up for a selection of dresses, then had them brought to my room. Not only did I get a stunning gown for this evening, but I received an entire new wardrobe of stylish clothing. Skirts and bodices, dresses, coats, boots, shoes, stockings, petticoats, corsets. My grandmother had said .
