“Indeed, yes,” agreed Miss Betty. “Only think, my dear, he was groom to Sir Hugh Grandison⁠—I saw the letter Sir Hugh writ your Papa⁠—a remarkable elegant epistle, I assure you, my love.”

Diana nodded and watched the new groom ride up, leading her mount. He jumped down, and, touching his hat, stood awaiting his mistress’s pleasure.

Diana went up to the cob, patting his glossy neck.

“We are going towards Ashley today, aunt,” she said. “I am so anxious to find some berries, and Harper tells me they grow in profusion not far from here.”

“Now, my dear, pray do not tire yourself by going too far⁠—I doubt it will rain before long and you will catch your death of cold!”

Diana laughed at her.

“Oh, no, aunt! Why, the sky is almost cloudless! But we shall not be long, I promise you. Only as far as Crossdown Woods and back again.”