Chapter One

Kathryn was waiting anxiously outside the door. She was fidgeting with a small bow held in her snow white palm, desperately wondering what was going on.

I hope he will be alright, she thought. I don't think I should leave him like this.

Fisher came out from the room, just as Sir Percy and Marguerite arrived to join her.

"How is he?" whispered Percy. He was wearing his newest cravat, of which he was very proud, and was fiddling unconsciously with it. Marguerite stood behind him. Kathryn turned to Fisher with wide eyes, praying that it was good news.

"He has been very ill these past few hours, but it seems to be passing."

Percy breathed a quiet sigh of relief and Kathryn could not stop a tear trickling down her soft cheek.

Thank God he's going to be alright!

"The doctor says that he should rest tonight. He can see you now". Fisher held the door open and Percy walked in followed by Kathryn and Marguerite.

James was sitting up in bed. He looked very hot and feverish, but the doctor reassured them that the worst had passed and that he should recover soon. Kathryn sat beside him.

"I have left some medicine for him," said the doctor. "I doubt that he shall need it as he seems to be coping by himself. If he gets worse, please do not hesitate to rouse me."

"I appreciate all you have done and cannot possibly thank you enough." said Percy, shaking the man's hand.

"Would you join us for our ball tonight?" asked Marguerite.

"Thank you but I must decline your offer. I must return tonight I'm afraid." replied the doctor.

"We understand." said Marguerite. And with that the doctor gave a short bow and departed.

Kathryn was sitting by James' side, holding his hot hand in her cool one.

"I'm sorry, Kathryn," croaked James. "I meant to come with you…"

"Sshh," soothed Kathryn as she stroked his hand. "Don't worry - I will be fine on my own. I'm sure I can find someone as good as you to dance with."

"I think that would be highly unlikely at one of my brother's parties!" laughed James. He was overcome by a coughing fit. Kathryn giggled and stroked his face. Unfortunately Sir Percy heard this remark.

"And pray, young sir, what is wrong with my dancing?" enquired Percy with the usual twinkle in his eye.

"Oh, please don't get me started on Sir Percy's dancing!" laughed Marguerite.

They talked quietly for a few more minutes and then decided that they should leave.

"We should let you rest now," said Kathryn. She kissed James' hand and stood up. "We all want you to get better."

"We certainly do." Percy smiled at his brother.

"I shall leave early to come and see you, James." said Marguerite.

"Thank you Margot. It's lovely to be ill when you are around!" replied James.

Before she left, James gave Kathryn a small red flower. "Thank you - I shall imagine you are there with me and this flower will make it all the more easy." She gave him one last kiss before leaving the room and closing the door quietly behind her.