Later

I disclosed to Mary Beaton my thoughts that my personal things, particularly on my writing desk, have been disturbed. This writing desk goes with me to each château. I am particularly fond of it, and although I keep my most personal correspondence in my locked box, I do have some papers in the drawers here. I explained all this to Mary. She thought for a moment, then suddenly plucked a hair from her head. “What in the name…” I caught myself, for I must not use the Lord’s name in vain. “What are you doing?” I asked as she began to thread the hair through the latch of one of the desk’s small compartments.

“If the hair is broken,” she replied, “you will definitely know someone has been looking in these small drawers and cubbies.” What a wonderful idea! Mary Beaton is so clever. It is truly regrettable that a female can never serve in the Privy Council of a Queen. Mary Beaton would have so much to offer.