Where's Jasper?

Before Jasper could reply, Francis jumped in. "Maybe you should introduce your new wife and duchess to your committee's. I think only the mayor was invited to the wedding, so making a special point of taking Ellie, it would be a treat for them, get them on your side too, I dare say." Francis smiled, "I'm sure even Mrs Troutbridge would get the idea that you are very happy newly-weds if you turned up together."

"Oh, what a good idea, kill two birds with one stone." Rosslyn said meaningfully, "Now who wants pudding?"

Ellie watched Lotte purse her lips together in annoyance. She would thank Francis later for his timely intervention.

"I'll help Mary with the clearing up," Ellie said as the rest of them went back up to the drawing-room with their coffee.Lottie looked cheerful at having Jasper to herself for a while, "Where are all the staff? I remember when there were lots of staff here."

"We still have lots of staff, but they are allowed time off, espec