Several guests looked up as a large Government Yacht, escorted by 2 Templars, touched down near the outskirts of the the perimiter. Flanked by a pair of MI5 security guards came a figure in a fine dinner jacket and waistcoat under a long black overcoat, accompanied by a middle-aged woman in a long peacock blue dress and fine jewelery. The man flashed his card nonchalantly at the doorman and walked into the entrance, throwing his coat at the nearest butler. A footman stepped forward to announce his arrival.
"The Earl and Countess of Malmesbury, Lord and Lady Charles and Celia Canning."
Lord Canning spotted Lafiel crossing the hall and stepped forward to greet her. "Many happy returns of the day to you Lady Tarrant. And may I say what a pleasure it is to be here in the fine home of the Marquess of Arundel." His wife presented the large Fortnum and Mason's Hamper that they had ordered as her present and smiled kindly at the younger woman. "There you are my dear, I do hope you enjoy it."
"Oh, why thank you," exlaimed Lafiel, "So nice of you to come. I do hope your journey was not too difficult?"
"Oh, not at all," replied Lord Canning, "We came directly here from the ongoing summit with Rheinland over at Cambridge University. Going very well, actually. With any luck there may be a posting for you in New Berlin when we are done. Keep our fingers crossed, eh?"
"Gosh, that would be excellent." Said Lafiel. "I would be honoured with such a presitgeous position."
"Oh, what a charming necklace!" Lady Canning suddenly remarked, staring at the heavy gold chain around Lafiel's neck. "is it a birthday gift?"
Sir Stanley Nelson <span style="color:#000066">Charles Canning </span><span style="color:#000066"> Foreign Secretary</span>