A small fire flickered in a quaint little tiled grate. The room was surprisingly large and furnished with a four-poster bed, dressing table, two chairs, a small table and a wardrobe. There was even a sink. Other washing necessities were shared with the other bedrooms on this floor, of which there appeared to be only another two. The room and furnishings had been liberally covered with tartan. Mrs Lewis, who had herself seen me up, must have noticed my face. ‘This is the blue tartan room. Quite restful to my mind.’ She grimaced slightly and I realised she was trying to smile. ‘You should see the red, yellow and green tartan rooms. They are quite something.’ ‘I can imagine,’ I said with feeling. ‘I am grateful. Is there anything I should know about the running of events? Mr Bertram did not inform us that Sir Richard was marrying until we were underway. I fear none of us have brought gifts.’ ‘Sir Richard wanted things this way,’ replied Mrs Lewis. ‘I do not believe any of the guests have been forewarned about the wedding.
