The sub-theme of the Duke’s love for Virginia is unfolded fully. Do you believe it is pointing towards the shape of things to come? Chapter 6

The young Duke of Cheshire had proposed to Virginia on the spot after she had raced Lord Bilton at the park, having fallen in love with her indomitable spirit and free will. But he was sent back to Eton that very night by his guardians in a flood of tears. However, as the story develops, we see the Duke resurfacing at the moment when Virginia disappears and the young lad asserts his affections for her by insisting on being part of the search party. The little Duke was perfectly frantic with anxiety and begged to be allowed to go. His utterance, "Oh, bother my hat! I want Virginia!" is proof enough of the way in which the Duke had gained the confidence to proclaim his love. Towards the end we find Virginia married to the Duke, their love story having found fruition.