Pringle, the last servant up, was soon heard discreetly drawing bolts and turning out electric lights.

Mathilde went straight up-stairs without even an attempt at drawing her mother into an evening gossip.

She was aware of being tired after two nights rendered almost sleepless by her awareness of joy.

She went to her room and shut the door.

Her bed was piled high with extra covers, soft, light blankets and a down coverlet covered with pink silk.