“Very well, my lord. Is there anything you would like me to convey to the men?”

“Simply that the compensation will be well worth their time. That will be all.”

The valet bowed and left. Nydale took a moment to check his appearance in the mirror, and headed into the dining room.

The large, walnut-panelled space was pleasantly warm despite the cool weather, a low fire crackling gently in the hearth. One of the servants disappeared into the kitchen at his entrance, and shortly tea and a neat pile of the day’s correspondence materialised on the table.

A particularly fine-looking envelope caught his eye today, delicately scented with a hint of summer flowers. The emblem was the young Princess’. Surely not a coincidence that two of the royal family were to send letters on the same day.

The valet reappeared at his elbow.

“My lord, the men are assembled.”

“Yes, I shall be out directly.” Nydale dabbed at his mouth with a napkin and slid the Princess’ letter into his jacket for later inspection.