Safe in their quarters, Nanny set to stripping Mila's dress and stockings off and with a frown stripped off her knickers too.

'Quick, quick, into the shower with you.'

She caught Mila's hand, guiding her toward the bathroom.

'But, Nanny,' Mila tried to protest, voice rising and falling with her exhaustion. 'Uncle, Nanny, Uncle.'

'Come on lovey, let's get you into the shower. There's nothing to be done, Great Uncle Ilder had been unwell for a long time. You ...