Thursday 12th June 1808

Dear Diary,
I was at the scene of yesterday's snubbing, once again admiring, but this time gently fingering, the curve of Ned's splendid butt when he suddenly popped his head around the corner of the shed and I guiltily snapped my hand back away from it.
" Such fine workmanship," I blushed. I saw the smile upon his lips but it did not reach his eyes.
"Ned, what ails you?" I asked. He looked away and now blushed himself, shaking his head. "If I could be of assistance, know that I would," I went on. He lifted his head and held my gaze;
"Titty is with child," he crumbled.
"With what child?" I asked, still unenlightened and then suddenly, as if I had been slapped, all became clear.
"Imagine the scandal upon this house, Mr Austen, " he whispered.
I was.
"Who is aware of this?" I enquired after a moments silence.
"Just Titty, me, Mrs Clamp and now you, but Mrs Crutchlow will suspect soon if not already."
"We need a plan," I said, "and hastily." It came to me this afternoon and I discussed it with Ned. It will start tomorrow after the family has left for Effin Hall to attend Evelyn's funeral.