About this story
He hands you a key to a locked library cabinet, tells you to show it to no one but that associate, and will not name the absence he is preparing for or the uncle everyone else avoids discussing. That night a strange woman signals from the lawn below your window, and by morning she is your new governess, Madame de la Rougierre, already more curious about the locked door than your lessons.
How it opens
November wind moved through Knowl's chimneys while your father paced the long parlour without speaking.
Mr Ruthyn has expected one visitor all week, though nobody will tell the household why.
Mrs RuskSo few guests enter this house that every prepared room breeds ten servants' theories.
Mrs RuskDr Bryerly belongs to your father's new religion and carries more papers than luggage.
Dr BryerlyI have letters to write tonight, and no entertainment is required on my account.
Dr BryerlyMiss Ruthyn, your father and I have business that requires patience from everyone nearby.