It seemed the clouds that had darkened so much of Maisie’s early life had really cleared away. Freed at last from a disastrous marriage, she had also become a best-selling author with her very first book: all about Hamilton, the remarkable horse who existed only in her imagination, but had nonetheless proved to be a real guide, philosopher and friend over many years.

          Now she was to be married again, and Hamilton marked the occasion by taking a wife himself — a mare called Begonia.

          So the outlook was fair; but perhaps Maisie was destined never to know happiness untouched by sorrow; and certainly the next few years would bring their share of fresh troubles. Luckily Hamilton and Begonia would be there to provide support in winning through…