The Baron - The Offer Part 4

Charles opened his mouth and closed it. He quite simply couldnat believe his eyes. There was Phillipa"long-lost Phillipa"sitting in a large leather chair holding a sleeping female in his arms. At least he hoped she was sleeping and not unconscious or dead.

aOh, my G.o.d,a he managed to say at long last. He didnat move. He couldnat. All he could do was stare.

aBe quiet, Charles, I donat want you to awaken her. She had a hard night. Actually, I did as well.a Charles nodded. It was just as well since he couldnat think of anything to say in any case. He walked quietly toward Phillip and looked down into the half-hidden face of Sabrina Eversleigh. aMy G.o.d,a he said again, his voice barely above a whisper.

Sabrina stirred at the sound, but was too deep in sleep to awaken.

Phillip shook his head at Charles, then carefully rose. He carried Sabrina back to her bed and gently eased her down. He looked to the still openmouthed Charles and waved him from the room.

Phillip gazed down once more at her, lightly touched his palm to her forehead, and nodded to himself. She would be asleep for a good long time yet. He followed Charles from the room.

He was silent until they had reached the bottom of the stairs. aWell, Charlie,a he said, shaking his friendas hand, athis is a surprise, Iall admit it. Do you often break into houses and creep up stairs?a aYouad think I was a thief, wouldnat you? Actually, Iad think so myself. But you see, Phillip, this hunting box just happens to belong to me.a Phillip laughed, he couldnat help it. He felt unutterable relief, not to mention amus.e.m.e.nt at how the fates had worked this all out. aThe devil you say. Well, Charlie, since the absentee landlord has decided to inspect his property, I donat think it would be all that wise to boot him out. Am I ever lucky. What if youad shown up with half a dozen guests for hunting? No, I wonat think about that. Itas too painful.

aNow, come into your cozy front parlor and I shall serve you up a gla.s.s of your own sherry.a aPhillip, everyone has been frantic. What are you doing here? And not just you but Sabrina Eversleigh? Good G.o.d, man, the entire country is out scouring the forest for the both of you.a aSo you know Sabrina, do you, Charles? Why of course you do. It only makes sense, particularly since she must live not far away from here, as do you as well.a He handed Charles a full gla.s.s of sherry.

aI havenat tried it, but I know you have a fine cellar. Why would you stint here?a aI wouldnat.a aGood. To your health, Charles.a Phillip clinked his gla.s.s to his old friendas.

Charles downed the sherry in one long gulp, coughed, teared, then managed to get hold of himself.

aI do wish you would dispose of that gun, Charles. A lot of things have happened to me in the past week. I donat want to crown the week with a bullet in my gut.a He poured Charles another gla.s.s of sherry.

Charles gulped it down, shook himself, and looked blankly down at the gun hanging out at an odd angle from his waistcoat pocket. He drew it out and laid it on top of a table. aYou know, I did wonder if my intruder could be you, but to be honest, I didnat really believe it. I was starting to believe you dead, Phillip. Itas good to see you well.a aThank you. I must say that Iam also delighted to see you. Better me here than a criminal, I suppose. A criminal wouldnat have kept your house quite so clean and tidy as I have.a Charles shook his head and grinned. aPoor Stimsona"he and his wife keep this place in good order for me during the winter monthsa"he was white in the mouth with fear when he came to see me this morning at Moreland. You see I was the only one there, all the others out searching for you. I would have been gone in another ten minutes. In any case, Stimson saw smoke coming from the chimney and thought that rogues had taken over the house and that he should inform me immediately.a Charles dropped himself into a holland-covered chair. aHow long have you had Sabrina here?a aFive or six days now, Iam not really certain,a Phillip said easily. aBy the way, Charlie, just exactly who is she anyway?a Charles raised incredulous eyes to the viscountas face. aWhat the devil kind of question is that? You donat know?a aCome on, it canat be that bad. She isnat royalty, is she? As a matter of fact, sheas refused to tell me who she is. Youare my only hope.a Charles felt immense anger, the first time head ever felt such anger at Phillip in his life. aHow could you? Where did you come across her? Donat you realize how very young she is? How innocent? Dear G.o.d, Phillip, I canat believe you would have seduced a young lady of quality. But you did, didnat you? You gave her that lazy smile of yours and she allowed herself to be seduced. d.a.m.n you, sheas young and guileless, she didnat know any better. Oh, and then later she realized what shead done. And thatas why she must have refused to tell you who she was. She knew if she told you then even you wouldnat have brought her here.a aCharlie, who is she?a aSheas the Earl of Monmouthas granddaughter.a Phillip was stunned. Now he remembered where head heard her fatheras name. Yes, it was from the Peninsula, but it was from one of Wellingtonas men. Major Eversleigh had had to go home because his father, the Earl of Monmouth, had become very ill. And then head returned, only to die at Cuidad Rodrigo.

But he shouldnat be surprised. d.a.m.nation. He said, aLet me tell you something, Charles. I didnat seduce her. I was following your impossible directions to Moreland when I found her close to the edge of the forest, unconscious and suffering from severe exposure. Luckily for her, I remembered pa.s.sing this place and brought her here, just as the blizzard gained its full strength. So she is the earlas granddaughter, you say? Why the devil didnat she want to tell me? Why was she so b.l.o.o.d.y frightened? What would it matter? It doesnat matter. Why? Ah, this teases my brain. You know what, Charles? I think Iall strangle her when she wakes up. Yes, now that sheas finally well again, she deserves to be throttled.a Charles groaned and rose to fetch himself a third gla.s.s of sherry. He didnat like this and he knew he was going to like it less as time went on.

Phillip said from behind him, aWho is a man named Trevor?a aTrevor? Oh, you mean Trevor Eversleigh, the Earl of Monmouthas nephew and heir. He recently wed Elizabetha"Sabrinaas older sistera"it wasnat above a month ago. Quite a lot of flash and ceremony. Sabrina seemed quite all right then. Why, Phillip? What is this all about? What does Trevor have to do with Sabrina being here with you? You said she was sick?a aYes, very ill. The fever came upon her. I feared several times that Iad lose her, but she pulled through. Sheas tough. Sheas just very weak now, but on the mend. Have you known Sabrina long?a aLittle Bree? Iave known her all her life. Monmouth Abbey lies only about ten miles to the west of Moreland. She was really that ill? Youare certain that sheall be all right?a aYes. As I said, sheas just very weak now. In a week or so she should be quite fit again.a Phillip turned suddenly toward the door. aFollow me, if you please, Charles, my bread should have sufficiently raised itself by this time for baking. I finally found some yeast. It certainly makes a difference.a aYour what?a Phillip merely grinned and left the room, Charles on his heels. When they reached the kitchen, a room Charles had never been in in his entire life, he watched Phillip walk to the big central block surface, pick up an ap.r.o.n, and tie it around his waist.

Phillip looked up and grinned at him. aIam lord and master here,a he said, waving his arm about the kitchen. He tested the dough. aIf my meager experience serves me, my yeast needs more time to work its magic. Do sit down, Charles. Iam at present tied to my kitchen.a For the first time, Charles took in the viscountas appearance. His white s.h.i.+rt, though clean enough, was wrinkled, as were his fawn-colored breeches. His Hessians were a disaster. aOh, G.o.d, wait until Dambler sees you. Heas going to have apoplexy, Phillip.a aIad prayed that Dambler was with you. I trust youave kept him from searching for me in the snow. Heas a fine fellow but feels Iam still a lad to be shepherded and protected.a aHeas very worried, as were all of us. Heas out looking for you with the other men. Both you and Sabrina Eversleigh, I might add. I wish I had another sherry.a aCome, spit it out, Charlie.a aTeresa Elliott,a Charles said, and that was enough, surely.

aWhat about her? Sheas at Moreland, right?a aSheas too much at Moreland. Sheas been driving everyone mad, utterly mad. She was trying to shove me out into the blizzard to search for you. Itas a close call, Phillip, but now you donat have to worry about that harpy getting her quite pretty fingers into you.a aI would never have married Teresa Elliott. Not in a million years. Not until the earth crumbled to dust, not until my great-aunt Millie went to the hereafter, which likely wonat be until the turn of the next century. No, not a worry there. Calm yourself, Charles.a aWell, even if she didnat bedazzle you with her beautya"which I canat deny is near to overpoweringa"itas now out of the question.a aCharles, what the devil are you talking about? If my faulty memory hasnat failed me, I recall having taken her for only one ride in the park. That certainly shouldnat give any lady hopes of marriage.a aDo you forget that you danced with her twice at Lady Bransonas ball? Believe me, I didnat remember it, but she must have told me about it six times in the last three days. Evidently, Teresa places sufficiently high confidence in herself to think she would bring you about to bending your matrimonial knee. But as I said, Phillip, she is no longer in the picture. Youave jumped from the frying pan into the flames. Not that the flames arenat quite lovely.a aThe three gla.s.ses of sherry you gulped down have addled your brain, Charlie. How about some coffee? Thatall bring you back to reason. No, donat fall all over me with your thanks. Iam also the butler in this establishment. Coffee?a aSabrina Eversleigh is a charming girl,a Charles said, ignoring Phillipas words. aSheas eighteen now, I believe, quite old enough.a He mentally ticked off the years in his mind. aYes, eighteen. Sheas two years younger than my sister, Margaret.a aIave seen glimmers of charm in her, on rare occasion. However, usually sheas been more stubborn, more closemouthed than my uncle Harveyas pet pig, Horace, a great animal, really, but once head made up his mind about something, that was it.a aPhillip, whatas all this about a pet pig? Surely that isnat at all to the point. Now listen to me. I suppose it would be best if I seconded you to the altar. The old earl could obtain a special license and you could be wed by the end of the week. Iam certain the old earl would like to keep things as hushed up as possible.a Charles looked up and beamed at Phillip. His relief was boundless. aYou know, I think Iad like some coffee.a aCoffee,a Phillip repeated as he stared at his friend. aA special license? Dear G.o.d, Charlie, you indeed did drink too much sherry. You believe I should marry Sabrina Eversleigh? Thatas more ridiculous than the ridiculous waistcoat you wore last month to Whiteas, the one with the yellow tulips on it. Iave known the young lady for less than a week.a aDonat you see? Thatas the point, Phillip. Youave got a reputation that makes women want to creep into your bed and makes men envy you. Youave kept a young unmarried girl with you for nearly a week. Sheas compromised, Phillip, all the way to her toes.a aShe does have rather nice toes,a Phillip said.

aI doubt that even Richard Clarendon would want her now.a aMy brains have gone round the bend more than yours have, Charlie. Thatas another reason why her name was familiar to me. Richard told me one night while we were playing piquet that he was going to marry a young girl from Yorks.h.i.+re. Itas Sabrina. Now, listen to me. Iam not about to marry her. Thereas no reason to. Donat you understand? She nearly died. I kept her alive. I didnat have s.e.x with her. Iave cared for her the best I knew how, and that did not include having s.e.x with her. I cooked all her meals and fed her, and dessert didnat include having s.e.x with her. Now forget this nonsense about me marrying her. Richard wanted to marry her and now he can. I am and will remain the good Samaritan, nothing more.a aI doubt that. Once he realizes sheas been with you, a gentleman with as great a reputation as his own, I doubt he will be inclined to wed her. Do you know heas been like a madman, nearly killed one of his horses in the snow, searching for Sabrina? He wants her powerfully bad. But now, when he finds out about you? I donat know, Phillip, but I strongly doubt it. I hope he doesnat want to kill you.a But Richard could not love Sabrina, Phillip thought, staring down at his bread dough. Why else would he have continued in his wicked ways, which he most certainly had? Why head even taken an opera girl under his protection but three weeks before. Maybe Charlie was wrong and it wasnat a love match. He racked his memory, trying to recall Richardas exact words about Sabrina. They were in Whiteas, playing piquet, both men having left their mistresses but an hour before. Richard was slightly in his cups and the brandy had begun to curl pleasantly in Phillipas stomach as well when head said, aIave found me a wife.a He didnat look at Phillip, but stared over at the flames in the fireplace. Phillip thought he was jesting. He laughed and refilled his gla.s.s.

aNo, no, Iam serious about this, Phillip. Sheas a delightful girl, though I must wait some three more months for her. Old Eversleigh made me promise to let the girl reach her eighteenth birthday before taking her to wife.a Phillip had been surprised, no doubt about that. aBut youave buried one wife, Richard, and you have your heir. Youave told me more times than I can count that you would never again get yourself married, that one woman just couldnat keep you happy or content.a Richard grunted and downed another gla.s.s of brandy. aI want her,a he said, his voice thick with l.u.s.t and drink. aSheas as vivid as life itself. Her hair is the color of those flames and long and thick. I want to bury my face in her hair, just breathe her in.a He raised his eyes to Phillipas face then. aYou know, sheas the only comely female I know who hasnat used all her wiles to trap me. She is curiously unaware of pa.s.sion, indeed, appears to be sublimely unaware of her effect on me. Yes,a he said, looking away from the fire and back at the cards in his hand, aI want her.a Phillip became aware that Charles was speaking. aWhat did you say, Charlie?a aI asked you what you intend to do.a aDidnat you hear me? I saved her b.l.o.o.d.y life, nothing more, nothing less. Iam going to return her to her family.a No, it wasnat going to be quite that easy. There was Trevor to be dealt with. aYou said that this Trevor is married to Sabrinaas sister?a aYes. If you asked me, Iad say the whole thing was a bribe. Elizabeth isnat a very lovable woman. She makes me want to take to my heels.a aDoes Sabrina have an aunt in London?a aCertainly. Lady Barresford. Youave been to several of her soirees, have you not?a Sabrinaas merchant aunt. He nodded absently. Obviously shead intended to flee to her aunt for protection. At least Charles had added sufficient facts so Phillip would be able to force the whole truth from her. Then, he thought, he would decide exactly what was to be done.

aYou still refuse to admit to having compromised her?a aNo, I havenat compromised her and I refuse to believe that saving that d.a.m.ned girlas life would cast me into the role of the major villain in this farce. Donat tell me youave ever wanted to ravage a girl who was so cold her teeth were chattering?a aNo, but Iam not a womanizer and you are. I have no idea what sorts of odd situations would make you mad with l.u.s.t.a aOh, just shut up.a aIf it matters to you, of course I believe you. Iave never known you to lie except when we were boys. But no one else will believe you. Sabrina will be ostracized the moment itas discovered that she was with you.a It was true and he didnat like it one little bit. He wasnat all that bad. He didnat hurt anyone, he merely did what he pleased. aMy reputation is so very d.a.m.ning, Charles?a ad.a.m.ning? Well, I suppose youad think that in this situation. Strange thing is, you know very well that youad emerge unscathed from this, but Sabrina? Oh no. Odd the way society works, isnat it?a Phillip felt a surge of anger. It was true that head felt l.u.s.t for her. For G.o.das sake, he wasnat dead. But he was an honorable man when all was said and done. Head not taken advantage of her. Their intimacy had been forced upon her by her illness. He thought fleetingly of Martine, his mistress. By G.o.d, if only head stayed in London, pa.s.sing long lazy hours in her bedchamber, none of this would have happened. Well, it had happened. Sabrina had happened.

There was no hope for it, if, that is, Charles was right. Phillip pounded his bread dough. Charles was right, no doubt about it, his reputation had come home to roost. aI donat suppose,a he said, athereas any way of keeping the entire affair hushed up?a aI donat see how, not with the entire county alerted to both your and Sabrinaas disappearance. It must come out. Donat forget Richard Clarendon.a Phillip rose and began pounding mercilessly at the dough. He looked down at the white flour on his hands and smiled despite himself. He repeated to Charles the same words he had spoken to Sabrina. aIave done well by her, you know. Iall speak to Richard. Perhaps heall believe me. Perhaps heall still want to wed her. He is a marquess. Thatas certainly got more cachet than a measly miserable viscount.a aYes, by all means speak to Richard. But I wouldnat count on him slapping you on the back, kissing both your cheeks with grat.i.tude, and telling you he believes you saintly enough to be a vicar. No, Phillip. Iam sorry, but I think you must prepare yourself. In any case, itas time you wed. You need an heir. Even Rohan Carrington is married. Itas your turn now.a Phillip cursed fluently.

Charles said, aItas the right thing to do, the honorable thing.a aHonor bed.a.m.ned,a he said, and sent his fist again into the dough.

aOne canat bed.a.m.n honor.a Elaine bed.a.m.ned my honor, Phillip thought with sudden bitter memory. His mind raced over the years, years head spent by himself, concerned with only his pleasures. He said slowly, aI suppose youare right. Someone must see to her. I have the distinct impression that left to her own devices, Sabrina Eversleigh would fall from one sc.r.a.pe into another. At least I can hold her on a tight rein.a To Phillipas surprise, Charles laughed.

Phillip raised an eyebrow. aI am eight years her senior. I will deal well with her.a aYouave known her for less than a week, Phillip. And sheas been ill. Youall have to ask Margaret about all the mischief Sabrina led her into over the years. Yes, I think youave spoken too soon. Sabrina is no malleable sheep, Phillip.a Phillip thought about her outrageous attempt to escape from him the night before. aSheall obey me. I havenat a doubt about that.a He formed the dough into two loaves and slid them into the oven.

aYou will join me for lunch, I trust, Charles. We must decide what is to be done. When Sabrina wakes up, I shall inform her.a

18.

Charles didnat remain to have luncheon with the viscount, the two men having decided that Sabrinaas grandfather should be informed at once and the search halted. Phillip heard her awaken some two hours later. He prepared a tray and made his way upstairs to her bedchamber.

He didnat know if he felt more sorry for her or for himself. Both of them were caught in a trap of societal rules. He didnat see any escape. Head done his best, gone out of his way, and it had gotten him a wife.

A wife.

He didnat want a wife. He was too young, too fond of doing exactly what he pleased whenever he wanted. Rohan Carrington had married, and he was so content it annoyed Phillip down to his toes. And made him just a bit envious, truth be told. But marrying a woman head selected was one thing; having a woman foisted on him was quite another matter. Still, there was no choice. He wasnat a villain; he wouldnat let a young lady be ruined when it was in his power to unruin her.

By the time he reached her bedchamber, he had pretty much accepted the consequences of his good deed. Sabrina Mercerault, Viscountess Derencourt. It had a certain ring to it. It wouldnat be all that difficult to be wed to her. Those violet eyes were unique and really quite lovely. As was the rest of her, which head seen at great length.

He found he was rather looking forward to her reaction when he told her that he knew who she was. Shead been a stubborn witch. He decided that he didnat dislike her stubbornness, certainly not a bad quality in a wifea"if controlled. Yes, she would suit him as well as any other female. Better than Elaine would have suited him, that was certain, at least he prayed it was certain. Sabrina was lovely, she was bright. Few men knew their future brides as well. Yes, everything would be all right. She would become his wife as soon as it could be managed.

He stepped through the doorway of her bedchamber. She was looking away from him, toward the window. Bright afternoon sunlight poured through into the room, making her auburn hair a nimbus of fiery red around her head.

After they were married and she was safe, he would have to tell her that he had no intention of changing his life. Surely she would understand. Theirs wasnat a love match, but a marriage of convenience. No, he would continue as before and she would accept her role in his life and in society. She would do quite well.

She turned back from the window and closed her eyes. Her nose twitched. She said, aI know I smelled viscountas bread. I donat care if itas flat as my hand, Iall eat the whole thing.a Phillip smiled at her with new eyes, and set the tray down on the bed. aI brought an entire loaf.a There was soup, a bowl of honey, and his bread that she was eating as fast as she could get it in her mouth. Good, she was so thin. It worried him. When he took her to Dinwitty Manor, Cook would regard the new mistress with a zealotas eye and Sabrina would have to be careful, as he always was when staying in his country home, not to become fat as a stoat within a week. She was chewing vigorously when he said, aEat all you want, you need it now, but be advised that I donat want a fat wife.a She stopped chewing. She stared at him, then shook her head and chewed faster. She swallowed, choked, and quickly drank down the gla.s.s of water on her tray.

She wiped her eyes and looked at him hard. She c.o.c.ked her head to one side. aExcuse me, Phillip, I surely must have misunderstood you. What did you say? Perhaps you could say it again so that I could hear it aright this time?a aAs you will, Lady Sabrina.a aI told you I donat like that, Phillip.a aVery well. You may have your way for a while longer.a He sat down beside her and took her hands in his. Her fingers were sticky with honey. aSabrina, will you marry me? Will you be my wife? Weave known each other for a full five days. I think we could do well together. What do you say?a aMarry you,a she repeated, never looking away from him.

aYes. Just listen. We actually know quite a bit about each other. Weave only disagreed when youave shut me out. That would have to end. You would have to trust me, to admit me into all your thoughts. Do you think you can do that?a aYou donat know what youare saying. Why are you doing this to yourself? Why do you want to marry me? Iam a stranger to you. You havenat any idea who I am or what Iam like ora"a aI know enough. Now, will you marry me?a She gazed at him intently, trying to understand why he was doing this. It made no sense. She realized immediately, of course, that it would solve all her problems. Shead be free of Trevor. Shead be free of Elizabeth. She could visit her grandfather without worrying about either of them hurting her. She wouldnat have to deal with Aunt Barresford whom Elizabeth had called an old dog. Why was he doing this? It made no sense at all. She said aloud, aNo, Phillip, of course I wonat marry you. Perhaps youall be good enough to tell me why you asked me in the first place. Ah, I understand. Goodness, I guess my head is still fogged with sleep. Iam sorry it took me so long. Youare obviously trying to protect me, but I a.s.sure you that isnat necessary.a aYou need protection more than my lame cat, Dorkus.a aWhy is she lame?a aThatas not to the point. Forget I said that. Dorkus went to cat afterlife five years ago. She managed to tip the years at twenty before she took her leave. Now, would you rather have Richard Clarendon, Sabrina? Is it because heas a marquess and is very probably richer than I am?a aRichard,a she said blankly. aRichard Clarendon? Of course I donat prefer him. I scarcely even know him. Itas true that he visited us rather frequently during the summer.a Her voice dropped off like a stone off a cliff. aOh, dear, thereas more to this, isnat there? How do you know about Richard?a aCharles Askbridge has been here.a She nodded slowly and began tearing up the rest of the bread. He knew everything then.

aYes, now everything is blindingly clear to me. It was Charlie who mentioned Clarendon and made me remember why it was that the name Eversleigh was so familiar to me. I thought it was a connection to your father, but it wasnat. Richard told me himself, some three months ago in London, that he wanted you, that he was waiting only until you reached your eighteenth birthday. I brought Richardas name into this to see if you had any tender feelings toward him. If you did, why then you would simply marry him, not me.a He rose and sat down in the chair next to her bed, a chair head grown quite used to over the past five days. aYes, I see that you understand everything now. Poor Charles, if only you had seen his face when he walked in here to see you sleeping in my arms and me staring at him ready to leap at him and tear out his throat.a aWhy?a aWhy was he here? The caretaker for this house was scared that villains had taken over the house. Charles came to see what was going on. Although he wasnat overly surprised to see me, his shock at seeing you made him speechless for a good three minutes, a record for Charles. In short, Sabrina, Charles is off to tell your grandfather that you are all right and to fetch a carriage so that we can go back to Monmouth Abbey.a She turned whiter than the sheets. aOh no. I canat go back there, Phillip, I canat. I wonat. You canat force me back there.a aItas time you told me exactly what happened. Itas time you told me all about Trevor and Elizabeth and why your grandfather couldnat protect you.a He already knew everything, but he wanted it out of her mouth. aThereas no need for me to tell you anything.a aTrust is a very important thing, Sabrina. I demand your trust. Yes, I know that Trevor is your grandfatheras nephew and heir and that heas married to your older sister Elizabeth. Now I want you to tell me the rest. I must know everything so that I can protect you.a aI really hoped Elizabeth would be happy.a He said nothing, merely nodded at her, his hands folded in his lap, and waited.

She looked at him straightly. aTrevor tried to rape me. But you know that.a aAll right. The important thing is that he failed. Now tell me the rest of it.a aI thought when he first came to Monmouth Abbey that he was well enough, that he was charming, that he truly cared for Elizabeth. To be the future Countess of Monmouth was the most important thing in life to her. She floated about the Abbey, she was so pleased. But none of us saw beyond his handsome face and charming manners.a She paused a moment. It was odd, but just thinking of him, saying the words to describe him, frightened her. She said, aItas odd. Heas very handsome. Heas slender, beautifully mannered, but he looked kind of soft, like a woman would look. The truth of the matter is that heas vicious and cruel. He seems to delight in inflicting pain. He trapped me in the picture gallery, away from the family and the servants. He would have succeeded in raping me had he not become overly excited, and thus for the time being, unable.a aYou mean, hea"a aYes, I suppose what youare thinking is what I mean. There was a big stain on his britches and he was all out of breath and seemed suddenly weak.a Thank the good Lord that the b.a.s.t.a.r.d hadnat been able to control himself. aYes, I understand. Go on.a aI hurt him, but not badly. After he, well, lost himself, then I ran away.a aYou mean you didnat take one of the portraits off the wall and hit him with it?a aNo. I wish Iad thought of it but I was just too afraid. I was a coward.a aNo, youare not a coward. You were scared. It was understandable.a Rage was pouring through him but he knew it wouldnat help her at all to see it. It was very difficult to keep his voice calm. aWhat did you do then?a aI went to Elizabeth and told her what Trevor had done. I could even prove it. Head hit me again and again on the face. I looked frightful. There was no way she couldnat have believed me. But she refused to take my part. It was then that I realized that sheas always disliked me.a Jealous, Phillip thought, the b.i.t.c.h was so jealous that shead protect that b.a.s.t.a.r.d before shead take care of her little sister. The rage nearly overflowed. He looked down. The last thing Sabrina needed was to see him red in the face with murder gleaming in his eyes.

aElizabeth told me that if I went to Grandfather with my ridiculous story she would swear that it was I who tried to seduce her husband. She said it would be the two of them against me, and Trevor was Grandfatheras heir.

aThen she reminded me that just such a disaster as this might topple Grandfather into his grave and if that happened, it would be my fault. I knew then that I couldnat stay at Monmouth Abbey. Trevor had told me head come to my bedchamber and that Iad better not lock my door against him. There was no one to stop him, least of all Elizabeth, his wife.

aI couldnat stay. I had to protect my grandfather and I had to protect myself.a She raised bleak eyes to his face. aI should have returned to the Abbey after my horse went lame, but I couldnat, I just couldnat. It hadnat started snowing. I believed I could get to Borhamwood in time to catch the stage to London. I got lost and became ill in the cold. You found me.a Such a pitiful tale, she thought, staring down at her hands.

aWhen you return to the Abbey, you wonat be alone. Iall be with you. You know, of course, that I want to kill Trevor.a aYes. Thatas one reason I didnat want you to know anything. Phillip, try to understand. Heas the future Earl of Monmouth. There is no other male to inherit the t.i.tle. You canat kill him. Please promise me that you wonat.a aIam grinding my teeth over that one,a he said, then stretched out his hand and took hers. aI promise, but it will be difficult. No, when we go back, Iall be with you. I wonat let you out of my sight. If you will consent to be my wife, Iall have you out of that mnage within a week.a aMarry you? Oh no, Iad never do that, never. It wouldnat be fair, it wouldnat be honorable. I thank you for all youave done for me. Indeed, you saved my life. You guarded me and nursed me. I donat want to go back to Monmouth Abbey. I ask you for one more favor. Please escort me to Borhamwood so that I may take the stage to London, to my aunt Barresford. It is the only solution, the best solution. This is a favor Iam asking, since you owe me nothing.a

19.

Phillip drew back, releasing her hand. What was this? She didnat want to marry him? Was she so ignorant as to not understand that she could no longer be what she was, namely, an unmarried girl of good name? He realized that he would have to explain it to her. aSabrina, listen to me. This is very serious. Although youare not aware of it, you have spent nearly a week with a man whoas known for not being the most sober and serious of individuals. Actually, Iave rather got a reputation for taking my pleasure with just about any female I please.a She was staring at him as if head grown another nose. aIam sorry, but itas true. I suppose some people would call me a rake, perhaps even a womanizer. Iam really not all that bad, but itas my reputation, and thatas what the world knows and accepts and believes. Even if you were to go to London, to your aunt Barresford, your reputation would be in shreds. No one would invite you to any parties. You would be a pariah.

aThe best solution, the only solution, Sabrina, is that you marry me, and quickly.a He waited to see that understanding of her predicament on her expressive face.

Instead, she gave him a tolerant smirk. aItas really very generous of you to offer to sacrifice yourself, Phillip, but I wonat allow it. Charles is trying to play G.o.d. I have no intention of having you saddle yourself with mea"indeed, I would have no honor if I were to allow you to do so. Again, my lord, my answer is no.a aYouare being foolish, Sabrina. I wonat have it. You understand whatas happened but youare just doing this to thwart me. Am I such a bad bargain? Do you think I would make such a wretched husband? Donat you like me at all?a She was just shaking her head at him. He added, his voice low and hard, aEven if you wanted Clarendon, let me tell you itas doubtful that he would still want you.a aWhy?a aYouare damaged goods, Sabrina. Itas that clear-cut. Accept it and marry me.a She reared up in the bed. She waved her fist at him. aYou wretched men, you create and maintain two sides of the coin. The one side for you brave, honorable specimens, and the other for hapless women, whom you despise or protect depending on your whims of the moment. I tell you, I refuse to be bandied about among you. You may take yourself to the devil, my lord. Oh yes, and take Clarendon with you. To imagine that he wouldnat still want me just because Iad been with you for five days. Damaged goods! It makes me quite enraged, Phillip.a She threw her pillow at him, then fell back, panting hard from the exertion.

Phillip thought inconsequentially that he shouldnat have let her eat so much bread. He wasnat particularly angry at her, for he saw some truth in what she said. He paused a moment, worried that she might make herself ill again, and said, aPlease relax. Iam sorry. I shouldnat have thrown Clarendon at you, but I just want you to understand that everything is different now. Your life can never be again what it was. Trust me on this, Sabrina. Your best course, your only course, is to accept me as your husband.a She shook her head wearily. aLetas part friends, Phillip. I wonat marry where there is no love. Itas not you. Itas not Richard. Itas me and what I know I have to have to live my life with a modic.u.m of contentment.a He was getting weary of his lack of success with logic, so why not try something utterly unexpected? He leaned forward, laying his hand on her arm. aPerhaps,a he said, his voice thick and low, aI should take you now. Itas certainly what everyone will believe, once itas known youave been with me. Believe me, Sabrina, I donat mind that you are, at the moment, at your most womanly.a She was speechless, for a good two seconds, then she pulled back her arm and sent her fist into his jaw. He jerked back and she caught his ear. She was strong and it hurt. She rolled away clumsily to the other side of the bed and sat up, wrapping the covers around her.

He cursed, then plowed his fingers through his hair. aIam sorry. d.a.m.n, I was just trying to make a point. I was just trying to make you see the truth of the situation. Iam sorry,a he said again. aIam not a bad fellow, you know that. Iam not Trevor. That was all an act. Listen, Sabrina, we will manage to rub along quite well together. Canat you trust me in this?a She said nothing. However, she did move back to the center of the bed. aI did something else,a he said finally, since she was as silent as a clam, looking straight ahead, mutely suffering his presence. aCharles and I decided what had to be done. He is at this moment speaking to your grandfather, telling him that youare safe, telling him that your reputation will be safe, telling him that you and I will marry. When you next see your family, it will be as my betrothed.a aPhillip, I am not a fallen woman. I was simply very sick. Does that somehow make me immoral? Iam not sorry that you found me because you saved my life. Given that, do you ever believe I would make you pay for your kindness? Now, enough of all of this. Will you please take me to Borhamwood?a He looked down at her, at a loss for words. He realized that he could not very well abduct her and force her to the altar. Well, he could, but it would require a lot of work, and frankly he was tired. d.a.m.nation, what the h.e.l.l was he supposed to do?

He looked toward the window at the sound of horses and a carriage drawing up in front of the hunting box. Sabrina paled at the sound.

aTimeas up, Sabrina.a He turned, his brow raised.

She shook her head.

He turned and without a backward glance strode from the room.

He met Charles at the front door and saw that the carriage drawn up outside had no earlas crest on its door.

aItas my carriage,a Charles said. aCome into the parlor, Phillip, we have a new and very different problem to deal with now.a Phillip shut his mouth on an oath and followed Charles into the parlor. aWell? Donat keep me waiting, Charles. Spit it out.a aThe Earl of Monmouth has had a stroke. The physician will allow no one to see him. He a.s.sured me that he would tell the earl that Sabrina was safe and well, but he feared that the old man would not even understand.a aI see,a Phillip said, and indeed he did see. aTrevor is now the master.a aYes, both Trevor and Elizabeth. It would interest you to know that Elizabeth had already called in the men from their search for Sabrina. Actually, I think, from the looks they were giving each other, that the two of them had hoped she was dead. I really have difficulty believing this. Elizabeth was never a particularly likable girl, but now I find her cold and hard.a aStill, Charlie, why did you bring your carriage?a aThereas more, Phillip. When I told Elizabeth that Sabrina was safe, she inquired rather urgently, I thought, what Sabrina had told me about her running away. I told her that I didnat know the details, but that Sabrina had likely spoken to you. I saw her glance meaningfully at her husband. Then the both of them hastened to tell me that Sabrina had left the Abbey because she had tried to seduce Trevor and he had rebuffed her. They were surprised that shead left, but thought it was because she was too ashamed to stay.a Charles ran a distracted hand through his hair. aYou know theyall be telling everyone in Yorks.h.i.+re who will listen their version of this wretched affair. In any case, Elizabeth then told me in the coldest voice Iave ever heard in my life that she would find it difficult to forgive her sister for what she had done. She did offer to take her back, but I realized I couldnat allow it.a aAnd what did Trevor say to this?a aThat was the final nail in the coffin as far as I was concerned. Trevor told me that he had forgiven Sabrina, that indeed he wanted Sabrina back, told me he would care for her himself, that he wanted her well again, that head missed her. He a.s.sured me that he loved his little sister and he would care for her always. My skin was crawling. I thought Elizabeth would leap on him.a aTo h.e.l.l with both of them. Surely no one would believe such drivel, particularly if theyave known Sabrina all her life. Knowing her, no one could think she was anything other than painfully innocent and sweet as aa"a He stopped. To Charlesas astonishment, red stained his friendas cheeks, making his cheekbones more prominent. Phillip got hold of himself. aAs I was saying, Sabrina finally told me, after much prodding, that Trevor tried to rape her and her dear sister took his side against her. And that, Charles, was why she ran away. I tell you, Iave only known Sabrina for five days now, but I know that she wouldnat lie.a aAnd youare right about the folk hereabouts. Sabrina is known and well liked. No one would believe that she would try to seduce Elizabethas husband. Not because theyare all so generous, but because they know that Richard Clarendon wanted to marry her. They would think Trevor versus Richard, and come up with the proper answer.a aThatas of little consolation,a Phillip said. He raised his eyes to his friendas face. aSabrina wonat marry me. Iam not to be allowed to sacrifice myself, in her words. I tried everything. She wouldnat budge. Odd, you know, Charles, but I forgot my own ill treatment trying to get her to come around.a aNo, I canat believe that. She wonat have you? Impossible, Phillip. Wait a minute, thereas Clarendon. She would rather have Richard?a aNo, she doesnat want Richard either. Indeed, she told me she barely knows him. Heas nothing to her. Look, Charlie, I canat very well beat her. You want to take her to Moreland?a aYes. The only problem is that most of my guests are still there. Margaret will be delighted to see Sabrina, of course, and will most likely insist on taking over the care of her. Despite your efficiency, Phillip, once back in civilization, you must relinquish your patient.a aIf we have her there, then it will buy us more time. It will be difficult to break all of this to her.a aThereas no need.a Both men whipped about. Sabrina stood in the doorway, her hair streaming about her shoulders and down her back, holding the overlarge dressing gown tightly about her. There were circles beneath her eyes. She was too pale, too thin. She looked like she was teetering on the edge.

aAh, Sabrina,a Phillip began, and took a quick step toward her, his hands outstretched.

aItas nice to see you again, Charlie. Iam sorry that the circ.u.mstances are so horrid.a Charles was staring at her, he couldnat help it. She looked terrible. He felt a knot in his belly. aSabrina, youare ill.a aWill Grandfather recover, Charlie?a Charles knew he couldnat lie to her. aHis physician doesnat know, Sabrina. Iam sorry.a aItas my fault,a she said more to herself than to either of the two men. aIf I hadnat run away, then he wouldnat have worried. He thought I was dead. Iam responsible for this, all of it.a Sabrina looked at Phillip, at his hands, which were still outstretched. She fell where she stood, the dressing gown flaring out about her like an unfurling green fan.

20.

Phillip looked over the sloping west lawn of Moreland, watching the gray afternoon shadows lengthen into night. He turned at the sound of Richard Clarendonas angry voice.

ad.a.m.nation,a Richard was saying to Charles, his dark eyes deepening as the frown of his forehead grew more p.r.o.nounced. aDo you swear youave told me all of it? All right, I believe you. Iam going to put a bullet through that filthy b.a.s.t.a.r.d right now.a One thing about Richard, Phillip thought, watching him draw on his gloves, when he made a decision, whether in anger or in infinite calm, he acted immediately.

aRichard,a Phillip said, turning from the window, astop this minute. Iam sorry, but unfortunately the old earl isnat in any shape to take Sabrinaas side in this. Heas too ill to refute what Elizabeth and Trevor have claimed happened. Very simply, it is their word against Sabrinaas. And since she ran away, in the eyes of society such an action would point to her guilt rather than away from it.a aDonat be such a cold-blooded b.a.s.t.a.r.d, Phillip. You know as well as I do that Sabrina wouldnat have a clue about seducing any man, much less that little fop I met at Monmouth Abbey. Good G.o.d, he made my skin crawl with his softness and prettiness.a He nearly shuddered with revulsion.

aLet me finish, Richard. The fact remains that Sabrina wasnat raped. Also, even though I promised Sabrina I wouldnat kill him, obviously that doesnat extend to you. But please consider this. There is simply no other male relative to inherit the t.i.tle. Itas Trevor or the earlas line is extinct. I believe you need to think very clearly about whether or not you want to dispatch the little fop to h.e.l.l before heas had an heir off Elizabeth.a That made the marquess thoughtful. Slowly, he began to draw the exquisite black leather glove off his right hand. He said slowly, aYou know, thatas a powerful point, Phillip, and I think youave provided the answer. Once Elizabeth bears the heir, then Iall kill Trevor. Yes, thatas a fine plan. Iad be a fool to tell him Iall kill him once his heir is born. Head never bed Elizabeth if he knew the consequences of her bringing a child into the world. No, it will be our secret, just between the three of us.a aI agree,a Phillip said. aBut when the time comes, Richard, we will discuss it again. You will not simply act alone. Do you agree?a aNo,a the marquess said.

aIt might be ten years before thereas an heir,a Phillip said. aThe world might be very different in ten years. Promise me, Richard.a ad.a.m.n you, Phillip. Very well. I promise.a aYes, and another thing, Richard,a Charles said, ayou really donat want to have to escape to the Continent for killing the little rotter. Your father would likely offer himself in your place were you to do that.a aMore likely your father would claim head killed Trevor,a Phillip said. Both men knew that the Duke of Portsmouth regarded his son and heir as a G.o.d. Richard could do no wrong in his eyes. They both quite envied him his father.

aIam blessed in my father,a Richard said at last. aOh, all right. If we decide to kill the b.a.s.t.a.r.d after the heir is born, then it will have to be done in secret. I donat want to have to leave England, and I sure as h.e.l.l donat want my father involved. And the both of you are right. He would involve himself. He would fling himself in front of a firing squad to save me.a He sighed deeply, then slammed a fist against a table, making its legs tremble. aBut not to do anything to him galls me.a aI know just what you mean,a Charles said as he walked to the sideboard and poured three brandies.

aIave got it,a Phillip said after he took a sip of the sinfully excellent brandy, doubtless smuggled from France. aI will go beat the little bounder to the ground. I wonat kill him. Iall be very careful not to kill him in fact, but Iall hurt him. I think Iall break his nose. That will make women look at him and shudder.a aThatas an excellent idea,a Charles said, tipping his snifter to Phillipas. aIave heard that Trevor, married to Elizabeth only for a short time, is already bedding the comely maids at Monmouth Abbey. Yes, Phillip, break his nose, shove it off center, make him look like a gargoyle.a aNo,a Richard said, tossing his brandy down in one gulp. aIam the one to marry her. Iam the one to avenge her even though itas Phillipas plan. Give me your plan, Phillip, and Iall smash that b.a.s.t.a.r.das nose in within the hour.a aShe wonat marry you, Richard, so Iall keep my plan.a Charles stared at the two men, then he laughed. They both turned on him. aActually, Sabrina doesnat want either of you. Iave known her since she was born. Thus it is my responsibility to avenge her. Iall enjoy breaking his nose. How about his right arm as well?a It was Phillip who began to chuckle. aWe sound like a pair of boys, Richard. Cry peace. All right, Charles can break his nose.a aOh, very well,a the marquess said. aAnd his right arm as well, Charles. Donat muck it up.a aI wonat.a aI donat know,a Richard said slowly, frowning ferociously. aPerhaps I should go with you just to make certain you donat make any mistakes.a aNow if anyone should accompany me, it should be Phillip. After all, heas the one who saved Sabrinaas life and nursed her back to health.a If Phillip had been closer, he would have been tempted to break Charlieas d.a.m.ned nose. Why the devil must he remind Richard about the role he had played in Sabrinaas case? He waited for Richard to explode. Head been only momentarily sidetracked. No longer. Richard regarded him as much a rake as himself, though it wasnat true.

But bless the fates, Richard had no chance to veer to this new fertile land. At that moment the library door was flung open and Teresa Elliott ran on graceful feet into the room, turned to Phillip, and threw her arms around him.

aPhillip! Youare alive, youare well, youare here at last. You should have been here when I arrived, but you elected to be different and to ride your own path. It wasnat well done of you. Just look what happened. You found that wretched girl and had to hide yourself for five days. Five days, Phillip. It was unbearable without you here.a Phillip set her away from him. She didnat release her hold on his arms. He wanted to tell her that shead reddened her lips too much.

Very carefully, he pulled away, catching her hands and holding her off a distance of a foot.

aOh, dear, you must be exhausted. One can just imagine what youave had to do with that girl, being with her constantly. I donat suppose she was younger than fourteen, was she?a He just shook his head. Teresa knew exactly how old Sabrina was, probably to the day and the hour, head bet on it.

But he asked anyway. aHow is it that you know what Iave been doing for the past five days?a She pursed her lips into a pout shead obviously been practicing in her mirror, and on other gentlemen as well. aItas obvious for all to see, my lord. Did you not arrive with her here? Did you not carry her upstairs and put her in her bed? Was not her head on your shoulder as if shead become quite used to having her head resting in that exact place on your person?a She gave a laugh that was a bit on the shrill side. aYou know what servants are, my lord. Iave been hearing quite the oddest stories.a aYou shouldnat listen to servantsa gossip, Teresa. It isnat becoming.a But he knew full well that the matter was no doubt being discussed with great relish among both gentry and servants. aAre you acquainted with Richard Clarendon, the Marquess of Arysdale? Richard, Miss Elliott.a She was forced to turn from Phillip. When she got a full view of Richard Clarendon, the turn was worth it. He was dark as the devil, he had the look of a man who always knew exactly what he was doing, and she knew right to her toes that he would take a woman and make her scream with pleasure. She knew this and she was still a virgin. Her hand trembled as he took it and lightly kissed her wrist. If she hadnat already promised Phillip her virginity, at least in her inner thoughts, Richard Clarendon would certainly be the next gentleman on her list. Shead heard about him, of course. She wondered if it was true that the number of married ladies head bedded exceeded three dozen.

aItas a wonderful pleasure, my lord,a she said, watching his dark head bend over her wrist, seeing how finely he was put together. Shead never been this close to him before. It was a revelation. She smiled to herself, knowing that her beauty normally had such an effect on most gentlemen. The marquess would be no exception.

To her chagrin, the marquess said only, aMy pleasure, Miss Elliott,a and turned abruptly away.

Charles rolled his eyes. The last thing he wanted was a scene from this young lady who should have been drowned on her sixteenth birthday. He saw that her eyes were glittering dangerously. She wanted Richard to fall all over her. d.a.m.nation, what was he to do? He cleared his throat, shot a look fraught with pleading toward Phillip, which the viscount ignored, then said, aMy dear Teresa, youave come upon us at a rather trying time. We were discussing business. It is something I swear to you would be more boring than death. May we be allowed to enjoy your company at dinner?a aYou know youare discussing what to do with that miserable girl, not business.a aWe will see you later, Teresa,a Phillip said in a firm tone his own father had often used with excellent effect on him when head been a boy.

Teresa was more than curious. Phillip was hers and she had to know what had gone on between him and the girl upstairs in a guest bedchamber. But even she had enough wit to realize that now wasnat the time. They were closing her out. It was aggravating. She frowned at the marquess, but he was staring into the fireplace. It was a nice fire, but it was she he should be looking at with such concentration. She would think about whether or not she would take him as a lover after shead given Phillip his requisite heir. Why did he care about that girl upstairs?

She smiled. It was difficult, but she was accomplished, and she managed it. She waved an airy hand. aAs you will, gentlemen. Do decide what to do with that stray girl upstairs. I would like to have a nice Christmas party, something Charles and Margaret promised me when I arrived, and we canat until sheas gone.a aI repeat, Teresa,a Phillip said, ayou shouldnat listen to gossip.a He was ready to leap upon her and strangle her with his bare hands. Sabrina, a stray girl? d.a.m.nation, he knew his face was red.

aAs you will,a she said in a submissive voice that her mother had forced her to learn, waved to the three of them again, indiscriminately, then walked gracefully from the room.

Charles watched her leave with distaste. aIf you marry her I will never speak to you again, Phillip.a Phillip said to Charles, aI wouldnat ever speak to myself if I married her. Actually, I wouldnat marry her if I were randier than a dozen goats and she was the last female available.a aSheas a b.i.t.c.h,a Richard said, never one to mince words. aNow sheas gone. Letas get back to the business at hand.a But he continued to stare into the fireplace, his attention seemingly focused on the licking tongues of orange flame. He said, aI know your tastes donat run to innocent young virgins, Phillip. But Sabrina is so vibrant, so animated, so very different from any other lady of n.o.ble birth Iave ever met, that youave ever met. She alternately charms me and ignores me. One minute sheall listen to me as if I were the smartest man alive, the next, sheas laughing at me. I know she must have done the same to you. How could you resist her? Youave seen her naked, Phillip. That I cannot tolerate. Youave touched her and that I can tolerate even less.a aStop gritting your teeth, Richard,a Phillip said mildly.

ad.a.m.n you, sheas never even let me kiss her.a Actually he remembered that shead laughed that innocent guileless laugh of hers when head made the attempt. He could still see those violet eyes of hers, looking at him, looking too far into him, and her good humor when shead told him not to behave like Neddy Brickle, the blacksmithas son whoad grabbed her and pulled her behind a stable and tried to kiss her. ad.a.m.n you, she didnat even realize who I was.a aYou mean,a Charles said, athat she didnat realize what an honor it was to have you trying to kiss her?a aShut your mouth, Charlie. That isnat what I meant, exactly. But you, Phillip, she was with you for five nights as well as those days. Arenat her eyes incredible? Surely you noticed?a aYes, her eyes are unique.a aAnd that hair of hers, not red, but a very rich auburn color.a aYes, sheas got beautiful hair.a aSurely she intrigued you, didnat she?a aNo.a aYouare lying, d.a.m.n you. Did you lay a hand on her, Phillip?a aOf course,a Phillip said calmly. aEnough of this nonsense, Richard. She nearly died. I did everything in my power to keep her alive. Would you have preferred that I left her lying in the snow? She was nearly blue, you know.a aYou know very well what I mean,a Richard said, his hands fists at his sides. aI donat like this, Phillip. I just might have to kill you.a aDear me, what a reward for a good Samaritan. Just stop it, Richard, and attend me. When Charles found us, he convinced me that I should offer for her, as five days spent alone with me, regardless of the circ.u.mstances, would ruin her reputation. She turned me down flat, Richard, as, Iam convinced, she will do to you, if youave still a mind to have her. However,a he continued, looking straight into his friendas dark eyes, aI intend once she is better to push her again to accept me as her husband. She shouldnat be ruined and ostracized. She doesnat deserve it.a aIf you havenat damaged her, then Iall take her to wife.a Phillip said only, aI didnat damage her.a He thought that if the situation resolved itself and she became his wife, what had happened to her would not at all be such a bad thing. Although he didnat love her, he had come to like her and respect her. She seemed even-tempered, sweet. She was a mystery one minute, an open book the next. He would, he concluded, treat her much better than Richard would. To his mind, Clarendon merely wanted Sabrina to while away his boredom for a time. He could see the marquess setting her up as a new mother for his young son, while he resumed his own pleasures in London. Sabrina didnat deserve that.

Charles said, aPerhaps I should offer for her. Iave known her forever. Iad keep her safe. What do you say?a Both gentlemen turned frowns upon Charles, making him fling up his hands. aAll right, forget it. But Iam here, should she need a sacrificial husband.a aJust shut your trap, Charles,a the marquess said. aIam going to see her now. Has that d.a.m.ned Dr. Simmons come down yet from her room?a aIall ask,a Charles said and pulled the bell cord. He would be vastly relieved, he thought, if only Trevor got the broken nose out of this mess.

21.

Sabrina didnat move even though her arm was getting numb. She didnat want Margaret to know she was awake yet. She felt the soft cotton of her own nightgown against her skin. It felt wonderful. How kind of Elizabeth to send her clothing to Moreland.

She felt consumed with misery at her own helplessness. She had to regain her strength soon so that she could go to her grandfather, a.s.sure herself that he would be all right, and convince him that it would be better for all of them if she went to London. It occurred to her that she would now have to apply to Trevor for her inheritance from her mother, the ten thousand pounds that was hers upon her eighteenth birthday. It belonged to her, and even Trevor couldnat prevent the solicitors from turning the funds over to her. How very disappointing for him that she hadnat died. A sob rose in her throat. She tried to keep it swallowed, but it was no good. The sob burst from her mouth like the sound of a dying chicken. That almost made her smile.

aBree, my love, youare awake. How do you feel?a Sabrina raised glazed eyes to Margaretas face as she poured Sabrina a cup of tea. Her childhood friend whoad married a man she loved; a childhood friend so happy it hurt to look at her. aIam alive,a Sabrina said. aReally, Iam alive. No need for you to worry so, Margaret.a aOf course Iall worry. Do you have any pain, Bree? Shall I fetch Dr. Simmons for you? Heas still downstairs, speaking to Phillip, I believe.a Sabrina felt Margaretas hand, soft, and featherlight on her forehead. She missed Phillipas hand, solid and strong. She grabbed Margaretas hand. aNo, Margaret, Iam fine, really. Iam very grateful to you and Charlie for bringing me here to Moreland. I couldnat have gone back to the Abbey. Thank you. Iall be strong again, really soon now. You know me, Iave always healed faster than I deserved. Soon, Margaret, soon Iall take my leave of you. Another day, perhaps two.a Sabrina wondered dispa.s.sionately what her aunt Barresfordas reaction would be when she arrived on her doorstep. Would Elizabeth write to tell her that Sabrina was a s.l.u.t, a trollop, aa"? She didnat know any more words for loose immoral women. No, Elizabeth didnat want her to return to Monmouth Abbey. Shead keep her mouth shut.