About this story
You love Collins, the maid who never treats your name as an explanation, until she is dismissed from the house overnight. Through a library door you overhear your mother say your father wanted a son so badly he taught you to become his answer. Six chapters carry Stephen from that library to a beech in a storm, an American neighbour and a bundle of letters, and a morning room where her mother sends her away.
How it opens
Morton Hall opened toward lawns where horses seemed freer than anyone indoors.
Sir Philip GordonStephen, shorten the reins; Rafter feels doubt before you admit it.
You steadied the pony while your father walked beside the schooling ring.
Lady Anna GordonPhilip, she is seven, not a cavalry officer under review.
WilliamsMiss Stephen rides straighter than boys twice her age, my lady.
Choose
Let me take the low rail once without being led.
I would rather ride beside you beyond the gardens.