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‘I never forget a face. I was sorry to lose you, Nancy. But I can see you’ve grown up to be a young lady.’
‘I don’t know about that, Mrs Lake. But I am here with Miss Maughfling’s Academy and the girls would love to meet Mrs de Marney.’
‘She is related to Patricia, I believe.’ Mrs Lake’s eyes shone with interest.
‘Yes, ma’am. Mrs de Marney is Patricia’s mother.’
‘Ah, yes! I recall the story now.’ Mrs Lake turned to the doorkeeper. ‘Allow the young lady in. She is related to Mrs de Marney.’
‘Thank you, Mrs Lake,’ Nancy said, smiling. ‘It’s good to see you again.’
Mrs Lake beamed at her. ‘If you need to find work I will always have a place for you in my sewing room, Nancy.’
The doorkeeper allowed them to enter, although he did so with obvious reluctance.
‘I know the way to the dressing rooms,’ Nancy said hastily.
‘All right, miss. But if anybody says anything I’ll blame Mrs Lake.’
Nancy ignored this remark. ‘Come on, Tamara. This way.’ She walked purposefully through the maze of narrow corridors to the dressing room reserved for the star of the show. She knocked on the door and waited for an answer.
‘Enter.’ Claude’s deep tones echoed off the high ceiling.
Nancy opened the door and stepped inside, followed by Tamara. It was a small, windowless room, lit by gaslight, which made popping sounds and sent flickering shadows off the walls. Felicia was seated at the dressing table taking off her stage makeup. She glanced at Nancy.
‘Nancy? Is it you?’
‘Yes, Mrs de Marney. We’ve just seen your performance. It was magical.’
Felicia’s frown was wiped away by a smile. ‘You’ve seen the opera?’
‘We came with Miss Maughfling’s Academy for Young Ladies. I don’t suppose you know that the family sent me there?’
‘We’ve rather lost touch recently.’ Claude pulled up two stools. ‘It’s delightful to see you both. Won’t you introduce your friend, Nancy?’
‘I’m sorry, yes. This is Tamara Fitzallen. Tamara, may I introduce you to Mr and Mrs de Marney.’
Claude laughed. ‘I’m generally known as Mrs de Marney’s manager. I definitely come second these days. But it’s delightful to meet you, Miss Fitzallen.’
‘So you enjoyed my performance?’ Felicia said eagerly. ‘Did the other young ladies appreciate my vocal range?’
‘I’m sure they did,’ Nancy said earnestly. ‘They asked me if they could meet you. Just for a couple of minutes. We know your time is very precious.’
‘It is indeed, but I can’t refuse to see my admiring audience. I will come to the foyer when I am ready. Give me ten minutes and I’ll be with you.’
‘Better make that twenty,’ Claude said, smiling.
Nancy backed towards the doorway. ‘We’ll wait for you, Mrs de Marney.’
Claude moved past her and opened the door. ‘It’s good to see you again, Nancy. You’ve grown into a beautiful young lady. I’m sure Rosie is very proud of you.’
‘Thank you.’ Nancy knew she was blushing but she never felt shy with Claude. ‘You’re very kind.’
‘Nonsense, my dear. I only speak the truth. I was a little worried by the way you were treated by some people when we last visited Rockwood, but it seems that’s all settled now or they wouldn’t have sent you to the Academy.’
‘Maybe they wanted to get rid of me,’ Nancy said, laughing. ‘Hester has always been uncertain as to my position in the house, but Rosie stands up for me. She makes me feel like one of the family.’
‘I’m sure you are most valued. Hester is a dry old stick, but her heart is in the right place.’
