These Old Shades (Alastair-Audley Tetralogy 1)

‘Yes, Monseigneur, very unhappy. It is not because she is not kind, for she has been very kind to me, but I belong to you.’

Over her head Justin looked mockingly at his sister.

‘It distresses you, my dear? I believe you are right, Léonie. I have come to fetch you.’

She was all smiles at once.

‘Voyons, now I am happy! Where will you take me, Monseigneur?’

‘Into the country, child. Ah, the worthy Edward! Your devoted servant, Edward.’

Marling had entered quietly. Stiffly he returned Avon’s bow.

‘I would have a word with you an it please you, Alastair,’ he said.

‘But does it please me?’ wondered his Grace. ‘No doubt you wish to speak concerning my ward?’

Edward looked annoyed.

‘In private, sir.’

‘Quite unnecessary, my dear Edward, I assure you.’ He flicked Léonie’s cheek with one careless finger. ‘Mr Marling has no doubt warned you that I am no fit companion for the young and – ah – innocent, infant?’

‘No-no.’ Léonie tilted her head. ‘I know all about that, you see. Me, I am not very innocent, do you think?’

‘That will do, Léonie!’ hastily interposed Fanny. ‘You’ll drink a dish of Bohea with me, Justin? Léonie shall be ready to accompany you to-morrow. Léonie, my love, I have left my handkerchief in your room. Be so good as to fetch it for me. And Edward may go too. Yes, Edward, please!’ So she drove them out, and turned again to her brother. ‘Well, Justin, I’ve done as you desired me.’

‘Admirably, my dear.’

Her eyes twinkled.

‘At no small cost, Justin.’

‘It is no matter, Fanny.’

She eyed him irresolutely.

‘What now, Justin?’

‘Now I take her to Avon.’

‘With Cousin Field?’

‘But could you doubt it?’ he bowed.

‘Easily.’ She curled her lip. ‘Justin, what is it you intend? You’ve some scheme, I know. I’ll believe you mean no ill by Léonie.’

‘It is always wise to believe the worst of me, Fanny.’

‘I confess I don’t understand you, Justin. ’Tis most provoking.’

‘It must be,’ he agreed.

She drew nearer, coaxing him.

‘Justin, I do wish that you would tell me what is in your mind!’

He took a pinch of snuff, and shut the box with a snap.