Arthur was glad to see that Alexandra managed to bring her sisters to order. Before she had gone to school, she had been the source of the greatest disorder in the household. But he worried. The girls adored their older sister, and he still did not entirely trust her intentions. And if Alexandra did continue insist on calling his wife by her name, the other girls might follow her example.

He twirled his drink while he watched her. She had grown into very pretty young woman. Perhaps he could foist her on that Scottish Earl. He smiled back at her.

A servant announced that dinner was ready to be served. The girls stood up and Eleanor, who could not contain her excitement over being allowed to join a dinner in the formal dining hall, jumped up and down.

"Eleanor, darling, a lady old enough to dine in the dining hall knows how to behave accordingly." Arthur reprimanded. He held out his arm to her and she walked over with a sheepish grin, took his arm, and allowed him to lead her into the room, her back straight and her chin up, all lady-like.

When they were seated, the servants served the first course. Arthur had instructed them to prepare all Alexandra's favourite foods. Hardly the first time he bribed someone.

"How was your journey, Alexandra?" he asked.