The Cavendon Women. Barbara Bradford Taylor

he had stopped, she asked, ‘Why are you laughing? Papa and Charlotte won’t like it: dancing and fireworks and all the fuss. They wanted a quiet wedding.’

      ‘Yes, I know. Don’t worry, darling, I do believe your father is aware of Miles’s plans.’

      Daphne frowned. ‘You think Miles has told Papa?’

      Hugo nodded. ‘The other day Charles made an odd remark to me, about being a bit rusty for the dance floor. He then went on to say something about the villagers coming to the park on Saturday night. Before I could question him, we were interrupted by a very important call from New York. And then I forgot all about it. You know how I am when business intrudes.’

      Daphne shook her head. ‘I wonder why Papa didn’t mention it to me? He usually consults with me on everything.’