'No, my lady,' said Bridget. 'We've turned out the entire room. They're nowhere to be seen.'

 I sighed. 'Very well. I'd better interview the servants. I'll tell Mrs Harper to have them gather in the servants hall after luncheon.'

 'Yes, my lady. It's the only thing you can do.'

 'I know. But it's not going to be easy, by any means. Oh well.'

 I reached the foot of the stairs just in time to see Mr Govan be admitted. 

 'Mr Govan! I hope you've come to apologise for not attending my ball?'

 'Yes, I'm sorry about that. Can you forgive me, my lady?'

 'I'll consider it. Have you come on a call or did you have a particular reason?'

 ...

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