"Her Ladyship is very well. I believe Beaumont House must be the happiest home in London. Her children are darling, and she is simply delightful. I know I shall enjoy my visit very much with such an agreeable hostess!" Belle was incredibly fond of all her relations, and extremely loyal. Daphne could do no wrong in her eyes.

She smiled to John. "I certainly shall! You may never be able to get rid of me now. How good it is to have old friends in Town!"

Belle's gaze followed Regina's. "Oh, I am sure Daphne does not mind. All the same, I do not want to vex her patience, so perhaps I should return before they are all cross." She dropped a quick curtsey to them both with a grin. "I am sure we shan't be apart for long! Do call as soon as you are able!"

With that, she turned and headed back up the hill, but not without turning several times and waving a gloved hand back at her dear friends.

((THREAD FINISHED!))