Matthew coughed and did not meet Henry’s eye; if he had, he might have seen the teasing humor lurking there. “I did my best to fulfill my duty, sir.”

“I hope your zealous pursuit of intelligence did not lead you to make overhasty declarations. But if it has, we shall make your lady welcome at Woodston. Mrs. Tilney has provided for you; it was her word that saved the little cottage beyond the orchard from being pulled down. It could be fitted up for a young family, I dare say — ”

“Oh, no, sir,” said Matthew, his face deep red.

“Do not tease him, Henry,” said Catherine. “Matthew deserves a much better wife than a mere maidservant who cannot even be trusted to keep her employer’s secrets.”

“Thank you, ma’am,” said Matthew with a gratified look.

Henry smiled, and said, “He does indeed deserve better; and I know he will seek better.”

“I have no such plans at present, sir, to — seek,” said Matthew, still blushing.

“A man never does,” said Henry.

***

The dark pressed in early, and even in the hour before dinner, Catherine needed candles to light her sewing. Henry had gone down to the kitchen to make sure MacGuffin had been brushed, fed, and watered after his adventures of the morning. She knew that Henry probably would end up brushing MacGuffin himself, and get his coat all over dog hair, but such a circumstance was not unusual and did not trouble her.