Vivian made her way back into the house, questioning Judith as she did so.

“Isn’t the governess here?”

“She is, but she fell asleep, poor thing – I didn’t want to wake her -“

“Judith, the governess’ duty is to take care of your child. I will fire the woman if you do not use her properly. Neglecting her role as a governess will only cause me to spend more money, and these times are hard. Make your choice, Judi.”

Judith fiddled with her hands, and then the hem of her newly-acquired apron. She looked undecided.

“Very well…”

Vivian nodded curtly and proceeded into her house, opening the door and letting Judith pass first.

As she shut the door behind her, Judith gave a small cry, as if she had remembered something.

“How did your visit with Sir Isaac go? Does he fare well?”

“Well enough,” Vivian murmured, and then lifted her head. “Yes, he is fine.”

“Quite a character, isn’t he? What a refined man, don’t you think?”

Vivian thought out her answer, selecting a one-worded reply.

“Indeed…”