Imperial Splendour

The pomp and circumstance and the social distinctions that meant so much to those of Imperial rank were of no value or consequence

He drew her away from the window and very gently took the diamond wreath from her hair and undid the train from her shoulders

The note of sincerity in his voice made Zoia give a little cry and lift her face to his

You are not only my wife but a spiritual ideal I shall worship for the rest of my life,” the Duke vowed

light of the pale moon so that it shimmered silver on the surface of the water.

“This – cannot really be – happening,” she whispered in a low voice

With his arms around her the Duke took her across the room to the bed and she realised that below them there was the sea reflecting the

We shall be alone, my darling. I want it as much if not more than you do.”

the Duchesse would be waiting to congratulate them on being married

She felt that the Governor-General and

am really your – wife.”

“I will make you very sure of it in a little while,” the Duke replied