“The long gallery.”
“Yes. It’s where most of the family’s art collection is located. It’s very impressive.”
“Oh, I should love to see it. It sounds wonderful.”
Janet didn’t look up from her mending, but she smiled. “It is.”
Annie heaved a sigh and shifted her gaze to the window as she reflected on her morning excursion. “It was beautiful up there,” she said, as much to herself as the others. “The view from the ledge is incredible.”
“Freya’s Farewell? I haven’t been up there for years,” Janet said, head still bent, her needle darting in-and-out with practiced efficiency. “I never dared to step onto the ledge. Just thinking about the drop makes me shudder. I don’t like heights.”
“Freya’s Farewell?” Annie pulled her gaze from the window. “Is that what it’s called?”
Janet grimaced. “Named after a young lady who supposedly threw herself off there when her sweetheart married another. I suspect it’s just a made-up tale, though. Lots of them in these parts.”
“Poor Freya.” Annie shook her head. “I do hope it’s not true.”
“I’m fairly sure it isn’t.” Janet shrugged. “In any case, don’t let it stop you from going back up there.”
“Is it wrong, do you think,” Annie said, after a moment, “for me to be roaming all over the countryside? I mean, Papa has only been gone for six weeks.”
Janet paused her mending and looked at Hattie, who answered with a firm shake of her head. “No, pet, of course it isn’t wrong. What would be gained by staying cooped up in the house all day? Nothing at all, that’s what. Your father wouldn’t want you to do that, either, you know he wouldn’t. He’d say it wasn’t healthy, and he’d be right. Wearing that black garb doesn’t mean you should stop living. Life goes on and we’re obliged to get on with it.”
“I suppose.” Annie heaved a sigh, wishing she could lose the niggling burden of guilt that made her feel as though enjoyment of anydescription was inappropriate.
“Will you do something for me, Annie?” Janet asked, without looking up from her task. “There’s a small, white envelope in the hall-table drawer. Will you fetch it for me, please?”
“Yes, of course.” Annie scraped her chair back and went in search of the envelope, returning with it moments later. “Is this the one?”
Janet glanced at the envelope in Annie’s outstretched hand. “Yes, that’s it. There’s a note inside. Take it out and read it, will you?”
Annie raised her brows. “Have you not read it?”
“Of course I have.” Janet took a small pair of scissors from the table and snipped off the thread. “But I’d likeyouto read it.”
“Out loud?”
“If you wish, though it’s not necessary. I just thought you might be interested in what it says, that’s all.”
Intrigued, Annie took out the folded piece of paper, opened it, and silently read the short message, her eyes widening before she was even half-way through.
Monday, June 19th, 1846
Dear Miss Caldridge,
I trust this request finds you in good health.
Your valued services are required at Myddleton House on Thursday, August 6thof this year. Your early arrival would be greatly appreciated, and you should expect to be here for the better part of the day. Luncheon will, of course, be provided.
In anticipation of your prompt and positive response, I remain,
Your friend.
Mrs. Shelburne,
Housekeeper
Myddleton House.
