‘It is a superb exhibition, Antonia.’ ‘Thank you, Robert.’ ‘I’ll see you on Friday, then.’ Though Antonia’s eyes shone in her flushed face and her smile was wide and warm, Caseley knew it was not for Robert Pawlyn, but for the man who had just left. ‘Will you excuse us for a moment?’ Jago drew Pawlyn away. It was nearly seven. Caseley wanted to go upstairs for a few minutes’ quiet before they had to leave for the Consulate and dinner with Sir Douglas. ‘Miss Collingwood –’ ‘Please, you must call me Antonia. I feel we are already dear friends. I can hardly believe it!’ She pressed her clasped hands to her full bosom. ‘To be invited to the wedding of Sheikh Imad’s cousin is such an honour! You must be so glad you are here.’ Caseley could have pointed out that it was Jago’s presence and the promise of gold that had secured the invitation, but she had no wish to burst Antonia’s bubble of happiness. ‘I do wish more people had come tonight,’ Antonia sighed.
