The afternoon was drawing to a close, and Catherine was in her front hall, giving her butler, Mr. Basil, final instructions for the evening. A maid stood by, holding Catherine's hat and reticule.
"And please ensure the kitchen prepares a light supper for my return," Catherine was saying. "I'm not sure how long I will be. I need to be at my daughter's residence to check on my son-in-law."
Just as she finished speaking, a firm knock came on the grand front door.
Mr. Basil, his expression politely puzzled, went to answer it. Catherine sighed with mild annoyance. "Who could that be, Mr. Basil? I'm not expecting any visitors today."
The butler opened the door to reveal a well dressed footman standing on the step. Beside him was a finely crafted wheelchair. Mr. Basil's eyebrows rose slightly. "How may I help you?" he asked, his voice the epitome of formal decorum.
