Chapter 23: Violet
Contains spoilers
Summary
- Frederick missed breakfast, appearing pale and queasy at lunch, eating very little.
- Graham whispered to Violet about Frederick's heavy drinking of port the previous night and appeared jealous.
- After lunch, Frederick received an informal tour from their father, showcasing expensive historical furniture.
- Frederick commented on King James's interest in witch-hunting, causing their father to look displeased and change the subject.
- While playing bowls on the lawn, Violet felt self-conscious, especially after Frederick's absent and distant demeanor following their recent kiss.
- Everyone struggled with the heat except Frederick, who seemed unaffected, leading Violet to believe his time in Libya had acclimated him.
- Graham failed in bowls due to fear of the servants, particularly Mrs Kirkby, who threatened him over kitchen misbehavior.
- Frederick joined Violet to fetch lemonade, creating a tense moment between them where he reminded her of their planned walk.
- Miss Poole, the governess, interrupted them with a slightly respectful greeting to Frederick.
- Mrs Kirkby's lemonade tasted unpleasant due to wartime rationing; Frederick spiked Violet's glass with brandy while her father was distracted.
- Violet's father became tired of bowls and asked Mrs Kirkby to set up chairs, frustrating her with the additional work.
- Conversation about a deceased butler who went down with the HMS Barham was a sobering reminder of war casualties.
- Violet relaxed into lethargy due to the brandy, her father and brother fell asleep, while Frederick watched her with an intense gaze.
- A bug bit Violet, and Frederick responded with care, soothing her with his cold glass.
- Violet took the brandy again for courage, suspecting the need for bravery soon.
- Frederick suggested a walk to recover from the bug bite, which Violet agreed to, readying herself for the unknown implications of their time alone.
- The pair left Graham and their father sleeping on the lawn as they ventured off for their walk.