I think as I take the small scroll and tuck it into a fold of my chiton. I shall read it later when no one else is about.

"Your name marks you as coming from the East, Nadira," I say pleasantly, "as do I. We must talk of our home later when you have dined and refreshed yourself."

I can see some of the tension go out of Nadira's body, her clenched hands uncurl, the muscles in her jaw relax. Interesting that A. Marcellus should send her to me.

"Aleksandr," I put a touch of frost into my voice, "please take Shani upstairs and help her prepare rooms for her mistress. Also see that she finds her way about and has a meal."

Aleksandr opens his mouth to object. I can see his little pea-brain grinding away, telling him it's not his job to escort housemaids. My eyes fix his steadily, and what was to have been his demurral comes out as an ugly squawk.

"That would be NOW, Aleksandr," I say with some relish, and lead Nadira into the atrium, through the tablinium and into the summer trinclinium where my other ladies graciously make room for her on one of the couches.

Returning to the table I am feeling somewhat better. Scoundrel though he is, Mungo is reliable in his own way. What I've asked, he will do, one way or another.

Looking at the group of stunned ladies reclining here at the table, I have a few qualms about my behaviour. Perhaps it was a bit...harsh.

I look over my shoulder at a serving girl, who stands patiently against the wall. "Phoebe," I say calmly, "bring me Chloe, again." My Chloe's another who never fails me, I think. Such a good maid.

Turning back to table, I try to repair some of the damage. "Now, ladies, surely you must have some questions of me?"

Before anyone can speak, Chloe appears. Handing her a tabulae sealed with a unique wax imprint, I whisper her instructions to her and she silently nods her head and disappears.

"'Mia, I think your little problem will be settled by tomorrow. Plan to accompany me to the inn at the noon hour to pick up your package."

'Mia's face breaks into a huge smile, and Ecstacia seems giddy with delight. Well, I'm happy to oblige my ladies...as long as they are deserving.

"Questions, ladies?"