He helped me into the carriage and we set off again, in considerably more harmony than we had started the journey in. If I hadn't been so tired, hungry and dirty I would have been sorry when it came to an end, almost two hours later.

 'Mrs Patterson, Mr Knott. A pleasure to see you both again.'

 'Likewise, my lady,' replied Mrs Patterson, stepping forward. 

 'As you can probably see, we met with a slight mishap on the journey. Please have some hot water sent to our bedchambers and some refreshments prepared in the drawing room. I believe my maid arrived with the luggage earlier?'

 'Yes, my lady. I will inform her of your arrival. No doubt you will wish to change.'

 An hour later, washed and newly dressed in a pretty gown...

Please subscribe to keep reading.