Emma Forbes' colouring was not especially fashionable or remarkable. She had soft brown hair and dark eyes. My own colouring of raven hair and blue eyes was far more striking. However, Miss Forbes had a charming, pretty face and the symmetry of her figure was such that she presented a prettier sight as a whole. She was not tall, but nor could she be described as short. You immediately felt that she was just the right height. She made me feel large and clumsy.

 'Lady Hardley,' her voice was soft too. 'I'm so delighted to finally meet you. Louisa has told me so much about you.'

 'I'll not ask you if it was all good,' I replied, 'as I know that Louisa is incapable of thinking otherwise. But you must judge for yourself. Miss Fanshawe and I are old acquaintances...

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