"Well, they might have known, and if they did they should have reported it." He did not have the time nor the desire to figure out who had known what. The mere possibility that they might have known compromised the maids. It was easier to just fire them all. Better safe than sorry. "Oh, don't worry yourself about it, Miss. Maids are easily replaced. We shan't go without servants, and there will be a full staff to assist you by the time of the party. It's no trouble."

He led her upstairs. Just then a doctor came down the stairs. "Ah, my lord..." With curious suspicion, his eyes landed on Vela holding on to the baron's arm, but he quickly recovered and turned back to the baron with a placid smile. "Lady McPadraic is alright now. She's resting. I advice as little disturbance as possible. Keep the children away from her, and anything else that..." he looked shortly at Vela. "may upset her..."

"Thank you, doctor. You may send us the bill," said Arthur brusquely, and he led Miss Rosewine up the stairs in a steadier pace, his face grim. "Impertinent old quack," he muttered underneath his breath while he led the lady back into his study.