Oh my dear, it’s so lovely to see you again; it seems like years! Come out into the garden – DENKER! We shall be having tea outside…

Here, take this seat under the tree. Is it too cool in the shade for you? It is starting to get a bit chilly these afternoons – DENKER! Bring out my new shawl!

Now try this on, my dear – around the shoulders. Is that better? Just the thing, and it looks lovely on you!

Yes, it’s a new design of mine. Edith wants to print the pattern in “The Sketch” - her periodical magazine, you know. She seems quite eager to publish it…

Difficult? Not at all! Nothing could be simpler; I am sure your maid could make it one evening in her leisure hours.

Yes, I created the design myself. I told Denker (and you must use a firm tone of voice when speaking to your maid about it): “Make it a nice Lavender color, with a delicate curve along the lower edge. Nothing too vulgar, of course, but a nice balance of lace and shells.” Then she worked out the minor details…