Chapter 1
Dear Lord Greystone,
I trust this letter finds you in good health. It is some time since we have corresponded upon the subject of our dear departed sister’s children, and Sir Harold and I have grown increasingly concerned about their welfare.
Certain reports have reached us—troubling reports—about the state of affairs at Greystone Hall. Reports of a household in disarray, of children left largely to the care of servants, of a guardian who has retreated from his responsibilities in the wake of grief.
I beg you not to suppose that I write in a spirit of reproach.
My sole motive is concern for Eleanor’s children, whose interests must ever be paramount.
With this in mind, Sir Harold and I have resolved to make a visit to Greystone Hall, that we may satisfy ourselves of their comfort, conduct, and general prosperity.
We propose to arrive on Thursday next, and to remain for a fortnight, trusting that this interval will afford us sufficient opportunity to observe that Ella, Samuel, and Rosie are indeed thriving under your care.
I rely upon your kindness to make the necessary arrangements for our accommodation, and look forward to renewing our acquaintance with both yourself and the children.
I remain, your obedient servant,
Elspeth Crane