He didn’t come to Whitby that often anymore, since for the past month and a half or so, he had used Alice’s poor health as an excuse to cease their regular family visits. It had been a relief, but in many ways, right now, it was also a relief to come to the town and spend some time away from the circus that was his home at the moment. He had left strict instructions to Jenny regarding Alice’s safety, had left little Emma in the care of her wetnurse, and the daily chores around the farm to Frankie, and as he had driven away that morning, he had felt that he could breathe for the first time in weeks.
 
Buying clothing and furniture for the baby had been the excuse. Several deliveries had been ordered to his home, and he made his way back to his wagon with a large bag filled with clothes, toys, and other items. He stopped for a moment to stare out across the harbour and let his mind wander. He was not in a hurry to go back home.