Louisa opened the door, calling back over her shoulder for the maid to put the kettle on before she turned her attention to the man on the doorstep, wiping her hands on her apron.

"Hello, Louisa Beeton." She said, offering her hand to him. "I'm afraid we've been tidying for most of the morning so you'll have to excuse my state." Louisa brushed the hair from her face that had fallen loose of her bun. She looked at the newspaper tucked under his arm. "Come about the rooms for rent then? Come in and wipe your feet. The girl will make tea."