When I got back to Cotleigh I found Cecily and Louisa busy writing invitations to the ball. Cecily looked up and saw me. 

 'So you're back, Lydia! How did you find Sally?'

 'Much improved.' I smiled at Louisa. 'It seems that Mr Govan was a great help. She is returning to work tomorrow.'

 'That's good news.' If she wondered why it had taken me so long to visit one servant and find that all was well she did not ask. 'Now you must come and help us with these invitations. It is your ball after all!'

 'Willingly. Do but wait for me to take off my outdoor things.'

 'Take as long as you need.'

 I took her at her word and spent some time in my bedchamber, pondering over the odd s...

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