Crowds of onlookers gathered along the city walls to bid farewell to the procession as it passed by in all its glorious pomp and ceremony. When at last they crossed the bridge and rolled onto the old coach road that would take them through endless meadows and forests, Randolph removed his hat and tipped his head back on the upholstered seat. “This is going to be a difficult conference,” he said. “When do you suggest I deliver the letter to Joseph? As soon as we arrive, I suppose. It wouldn’t do to put it off. I cannot very well behave as if all is well. Heaven forbid he should wish to discuss wedding plans.” “That would be awkward indeed,” Nicholas agreed. “But are you certain about this? You don’t think it is simply a case of cold feet on Rose’s part?” Rand shook his head. “You know our sister. She’s always known what she wants and will settle for nothing less.
