It was in this very garden that I had overheard her remark that I was the plain child from the rectory. It had affected me more deeply than I had realized at the time.

Lady Harriet was in the drawing room with the doctor and his wife. The doctor was receiving his instructions, as he had been chosen by her to play his part at the ceremony.

Her voice, resonant and authoritative, floated out to me.

"I had always meant Drusilla for Fabian and I am so happy that it has all turned out as I planned. She is so good with the children ... and such a sensible girl."

The sun was shining on the pool; the water lilies were enchanting. A white butterfly paused and alighted on one of them. It rested a moment and was gone.

I was happier than I had believed possible.

Fabian loved me. Polly and Eff, I was sure, would soon be close at hand, and Fleur with them. The qualms that my formidable mother-in-law might have aroused in me were stilled. Moreover, I felt an understanding of her which could develop into fondness.

Fabian would be beside me and life would be good.