It was from an associate informing him of matters at Court and other matters that might be of interest to him. The messenger was known to William and, closeted in the privacy of the library, they talked well into the night. The following morning he brusquely announced to his mother that he was leaving for London that very day. ‘What on earth for?’ his mother said, alarmed and clearly upset by his sudden decision. ‘The roads will be atrocious, as they always are at this time of year. If you must go, then surely the most sensible thing would be for you to wait until spring.’ ‘I can’t wait that long. I have some urgent business to attend to that cannot wait. I shall hire extra men to add to your protection while I’m away.’ ‘I see. Then, if it is so important, I suppose you had better go. But you will not be away too long, I hope. Staxton Hall has been too long without its master.’ From where she sat, Eleanor watched William in silence. Ever since that letter had come the change in him was immediate and Eleanor could not determine his emotions.
