The Baron - The Offer Part 6

aOn the other hand, anything is possible,a Dambler said. aI will think about this. I was just congratulating myself on enjoying one of the benefits of approaching my autumn years, that is, I donat have to bed a woman every night.a aTwo women, if possible.a aAs you say. I donat remember. Well, at best theyare fleeting memories that sting only for a very brief instant.a aYou sound like youare about to weep. Forget autumn years, Dambler. Go find yourself a laughing lady. But first, go to bed and donat wake me up unless the house is on fire or you feel a bout of apoplexy coming on. I didnat ask you to wait up for me, curse you.a aWhat would her ladys.h.i.+p say?a Dambler said as he blew out the candles.

aSince my mother pa.s.sed to the hereafter some four years ago, I fear contact would prove difficult, even for you. Go to bed, Dambler. But you know, my mother was quite a bold wench in her heyday, all flash and good sport. Blood will tell, thank the good Lord.a He heard a low buzzing sound from Dambler and closed his eyes. He found himself wondering what his valet would say if he were to see Martine in all her natural glory. Apoplexy, he thought, very probably it would result in apoplexy.

Dambler said from the door of the bedchamber, aDo you have any activities planned for the evening, my lord?a aI have just finished the evening, thank you. Go to bed.a aThe next evening, my lord.a Phillip suddenly cursed. aYes, I forgot. Itas off to that sacred boring Almackas, to play St. George again, not that it will do any good.a aA n.o.ble gentleman, St. George, my lord.a aIf he was anything like me, then he was a b.l.o.o.d.y fool.a Miss Teresa Elliott, her arm placed gracefully upon her brother Wilfredas sleeve, glided toward the patronesses across the main hall at Almackas, where they were sitting on a dais, holding court.

aOld besoms,a Wilfred said in his sisteras ear as his myopic gaze took in the three ladies seated close together in their stiff-backed gilded chairs. aIad rather face a hanging judge. If you hadnat worn Mama out with all those b.a.l.l.s of yours and whatever else it is you doa"a aBe quiet, Wilfred. It wonat hurt you to be away from your wretched books for one evening, and I must have an escort, you know that.a aFind yourself a husband, Teresa. Maybe you will snag some poor wretch who will be willing to let you diddle him about.a She gave him a loathsome, self-satisfied smile that made her brother want to smack her.

aFor your information, Iave decided upon one of the most eligible bachelors in London.a aAnd just who might the poor devil be?a Wilfred looked down at her cla.s.sic profile and didnat appreciate it one bit.

aItas highly unlikely that he will attend this evening, for itas known he finds Almackas a bore. However, I expect he will come about, once weare married.a aWho is this weak-willed a.s.s?a She pinched his arm, no more, because the d.u.c.h.ess of Wigan was smiling toward her.

aYouave smiled quite enough, Teresa. Now, who is this paragon youave set your sights on?a aI doubt he would even give you a nod. He is too magnificent, too sportinga"a aPlease stop. Heas one of those useless men who do nothing except drink brandy, visit their mistresses, and race their horses.a aIall have you know, you dunce, that itas Viscount Derencourt.a aPhillip Mercerault?a aYes,a she said, ignoring the incredulity in his voice. aIf you ever bothered to pull your nose from your infernal studies, you would know that I have ridden in the park with him and, indeed, was at Moreland with him before Christmas.a That visit, however, hadnat lived up to her expectations. aIf it hadnat been for that stupid girl who interfered, I know, I just know he would havea"a aI thought you said Phillip Mercerault never came to Almackas.a aHe doesnat, moreas the pity, for I look very fine tonight anda"a She followed his pointed stare. She felt herself flush. aGood heavens, he must have found out that I would be here this evening. How clever and romantic of him to surprise me.a She tugged at her brotheras sleeve. aYouall be polite, Will, or I will make your tutor fall in love with me.a He wanted to say something to put her in her place, but he imagined that she could make his tutor, the hapless Mr. James, fall so deeply in love that he wouldnat be able to dig himself out. aIall be all thatas civil.a aOh, dear, weave got to greet Lady Jersey and the Countess Lieven, and that cold Mrs. Drummond Burrell first.a aIad rather go to Newgate.a Delicate color suffused Teresaas cheeks in her excitement as she greeted the patronesses. Wilfred, thank the Lord, was able to speak a civil sentence, which was all that was necessary from him.

aPretty girl,a Countess Lieven said behind her fan to Sally Jersey as Teresa and Wilfred drifted away. aShe has nice manners. She dresses nicely too.a Sally Jersey gave her a superior smile, a malicious smile, truth be told. aPerhaps Miss Teresa Elliottas perfect manners will fall off a cliff when she meets the newest addition to the young misses making their coming-out this year. Indeed,a she added thoughtfully, ait would appear that Sabrina Eversleigh has already made a notable conquest. Phillip Mercerault asked my permission to lead her in a waltz.a Mrs. Drummond Burrell, who had given no impression of even having attended to the ladiesa conversation, turned her cold eyes to Lady Jersey and said, aIt would appear to me that the viscount will shortly find himself caught between two ladies. The man has great charm. It will prove interesting to see how well he manages to extricate himself from this encounter.a Teresa dragged Wilfred toward the viscount, pausing to give only cursory greeting to a young gentleman who seemed more than willing to take Wilfredas place at her side.

She was within five feet of her goal when the viscount turned away to speak to a small, red-haired girl who was standing next to Lady Barresford. In the next moment he was leading her to the dance floor. Teresa stopped dead in her tracks. aHow dare he do this to me? He must have seen me, I know that he did. Who is that miserable girl heas with? Oh, he will hear about this.a Wilfred, whoad expected to be bored silly, changed his mind in that instant. He looked at his sisteras furious face, and drawled in a voice designed to make her explode into flame, aIt looks to me like that little beauty has taken your viscount. Right from under your nose. Isnat she a lovely girl? Beautiful hair, t.i.tian, Iad call it. Looks innocent and sweet. Somehow I donat think thatas your future husband, sister. I wonder if shead dance with me. Do you think she might?a aShut up or Iall tell Mama. I know what it is. Heas being polite, nothing more. Come, Will, I must pay my respects to Lady Barresford.a At that moment Lady Barresford lowered her turbaned head to hear something Lucilla Morton was saying. It would be unforgivable to break in. Teresa cursed under her breath.

She looked toward Phillip and the girl he was waltzing with, and saw him throw back his head and laugh at something the skinny twit said. Without warning, she grabbed Wilfredas arm.

aYouare going to dance with me, Will. Donat complain and donat you dare step on my toes. These slippers are new and very white.a Phillip whirled Sabrina in a wide circle toward the periphery of the dance floor. She was breathless and laughing. aSo what do you think of Almackas?a he asked, smiling down at her.

She smiled back. aThis is wonderful. I love the waltz and you are so very good at it, better than the dancing master. He kept counting out loud and his hands were sweaty. Do you come here often, Phillip?a aRarely. Usually itas a bore.a aI hope you havenat put yourself out on my account.a aOh no. Havenat you been told that Iam a thoroughly selfish creature? That I never put myself out on anyoneas account? Itas true, most of the time. I normally do exactly as I wish.a Except where you are concerned, Sabrina, he finished silently to himself. She appeared to have forgotten their rather dazzling fight of the night before. He wondered if she was coming to her senses. No, little chance of that. There was no reason at all for her to change her view of society.

aYouare breathing hard, Sabrina. Letas rest here a moment. I donat want you to overdo.a aI wouldnat want to bore you, my lord.a aIall tell you if I feel a bout of boredom overcoming me.a Her violet eyes widened at his gentle thrust, which was, in truth, a mild jest. Let her growl, he thought, just once let her growl at him.

He smiled down at her and stoked the flames. aThatas right, Sabrina. A little temper canat hurt. Richard spoke of your being as vivid as life itself. I wouldnat argue if you decided to impress me in the same way.a Before she could answer, the band began another waltz. He tightened his hand about her waist and whirled her about the perimeter of the dancing floor, in wide, dipping circles. She was panting breathlessly and laughing. The room was warm, the candlelight twinkled like a thousand prisms, and she could hear laughter all around her. She felt wonderful. Phillip drew her just a bit closer and slowed down.

aPlease donat stop, Phillip. I love the way you whirl me around.a He thought that if he released her, shead hug herself in joy, that or simply keep waltzing by herself. He was charmed.

aYou were wrong, you know. Just look around you. Everyone is happy and dancing and laughing. Almackas isnat a bore. And everyone is being so kind. My aunt even told me that the last person Mrs. Drummond Burrell smiled at was a hussar in uniform at the turn of the century. She smiled at me, Phillip. Well, nearly smiled. She showed her teeth, which, Aunt a.s.sured me, was well nigh a miracle.a He just shook his head and whirled her about again in the large circles she so much loved. When he slowed again, he said, aI must agree. This is a delightful evening. You dance rather well, I might add, for a merchantas relative.a aAll the gentlemen Iave danced with this evening have agreed with you.a She looked up at him through her lashes. She was jesting with him. Perhaps even flirting, just a bit. He was enchanted.

aFor a merchantas relative, you also dress well. I like your auntas choice of the pale amber. The Italian crepe is exquisite.a aI selected it, not my aunt. How do you know this is Italian crepe? I didnat think any gentleman knew of such things.a aA man who is to enjoy a certain success with ladies must be a master of many things. If you like, I can take you to a small millineras shop just off Bond Street. I can think of several charming bonnets that should set off your coloring to perfection.a She didnat know whether to be furious or to laugh, and he saw it clearly. He arched an eyebrow, saying, aWell, which will it be?a aWhen I make up my mind I will tell you. But I do know that if I laugh, it will just encourage you.a aProbably so.a He felt her fingertips tapping on his shoulder and thought, a slight smile on his lips, of his previous night with Martine. He whirled her about until she was panting. Just before the waltz ended, Phillip lowered his chin to the thick coronet of braids atop her head and said in a pensive voice, aI wish you would allow me to be the second St. George. You are a damsel in distress, Sabrina. Itas true, you know, and nothing you want to believe will change it. Wonat you reconsider?a aI would never repay you by asking you to give up your life. Besides, just look around. Everyone likes me, Phillip. St. George really isnat necessary.a He just sighed. Then the orchestra struck up another waltz and he whirled her toward the middle of the dance floor.

aA third waltz. How very kind you are. I do so enjoy it.a If only you understood what a third waltz means, he thought, his laughing smile firmly in place.

25.

He saw the avid curiosity in everyoneas eyes. This was their third waltz. A second waltz was as good as an announcement in the Gazette. A third, and they were as good as married in the eyes of society. Head been right that Sabrina, in her ignorance of London rules, was sublimely unaware that three waltzes as good as put a wedding ring on her finger. He refused to feel guilty about it. Let her aunt Barresford deal with it.

After some moments, he said, aI must leave London for several days, to go to my home near Oxford. I shall be back no later than Monday. Would you like to ride in the park with me when I return?a aYou mean they actually allow merchantsa relatives in the park, my lord?a She was trying not to laugh, and he was pleased. aSince,a he said, bland as tepid tea, ayou will be in my company, thereas no need for you to worry. If anyone says anything about you not belonging, I will speak up and protect you.a She tilted her head back. aI swear that one day, Phillip Mercerault, I will have the last word.a aSince I am eight years your senior and come from clearly superior stock, I truly doubt it is possible, but we will see, wonat we?a aI doubt that,a she said, but knew head outdone her. She said, aI know where your home is. However, I know little else about it.a He laughed down at her, his white teeth flas.h.i.+ng. So she wanted to know about his home, did she? Well, it would probably be her home, so he willingly said as he slowed their pace, aHave you ever traveled to Oxford, Sabrina?a She shook her head. aIave heard that itas not as beautiful as the Cotswolds.a aAh, a pox on you for that remark. It is glorious, actually. My family home is called Dinwitty Manor, a truly abysmal name but the heiress who saved my ancestorsa hide demanded, I suppose, that the name be changed, and so it was. She renewed our wealth and fortunately since that time no viscount has been a wastrel. In fact, pleasantly enough, all have been fairly astute in matters of money. Dinwitty Manor has somewhat of a reputation of being rather oddly fas.h.i.+oned.a aWhatever does that mean?a aLetas just say that all my ancestors had different architectural bents. There were many different styles. I am of a medieval bent, you could say. My father was of a Moorish bent. My grandfather was of a cla.s.sical bent. It has made for a charming if unusual house.a aIt sounds intriguing.a He c.o.c.ked an eyebrow, lowered his voice, and said, aThere is a very nice nursery.a He thought her eyes crossed.

aIn addition to a nursery, there is also an exquisite library. The ballroom, my grandfatheras addition, is at the back of the house and is fairly dripping with carved cherubs from the ceilinga"really quite disconcerting, particularly when one is trying to mind oneas steps.a The music came to a halt, and Phillip, curse his scheming eyes, merely smiled at her and said, aWould you like to dance yet another dance?a Her eyes were glowing. aOh, drat. Look, Phillip, my aunt is waving to me. Goodness, sheas frowning. Why would she be frowning? Iave done absolutely nothing to displease anybody, since Iave danced with you, and quite pa.s.sably, at least according to you.a aIall take you back to her. Itas likely she wants you to meet other gentlemen.a He wondered if Lady Barresford would shriek at Sabrina for dancing not two, but three dances with him.

aI suppose youare right. Will you waltz with me again after Iave done my duty with the other gentlemen? I do so enjoy it.a aIam sorry, not tonight. I have another engagement and must leave now.a He returned Sabrina to her aunt, noting well the speculative gleam in that ladyas sharp eyes. aMy lady. Sabrina, Iall return to London on Monday. We will go riding in the park then.a Sabrina nodded. She felt a stab of disappointment as she watched him make his way to the patronesses to bid them good night.

aIt would appear,a Mrs. Drummond Burrell said toward the viscountas retreating figure, athat his lords.h.i.+p managed to escape with his hide intact. A pity. I should have liked to see him tested.a aI must say that Miss Elliott doesnat look happy,a Lady Jersey said. aYes, a drama would have been enlivening tonight. A pity.a aAt least the girl has the good sense not to dash after him,a Countess Lieven said. Like the other two ladies, shead hoped for just the opposite.

aOh, dear,a Lady Jersey said behind her fan. aMiss Elliott has decided to meet her rival. Oh, how I wish we were closer.a Teresa, a firm smile planted on her mouth, was saying, aDear Lady Barresford. How delightful to see you again. My mama surely would have sent her best regards if shead had the faintest notion that I would be speaking to you.a Sabrina turned about at Miss Elliottas words. What an incredibly lovely girl, she thought. She dismissed Phillip from her mind for the moment, promising herself that when she saw him on Monday, shead flatten his ears. Her aunt had told her what he had done. Three waltzes. However had he managed to keep a straight face? He was trying to compromise her again. Why? Shead released him. He was free. Why didnat he bless her and run as fast as he could?

a. . . And this is Wilfred, my brother, my lady.a Wilfred of the dreamy eyes, Sabrina thought. She watched him bow. It was odd how he was eyeing his sister who was now staring at her. There was no smile on her face.

Lady Barresford nodded pleasantly toward the uneasy Wilfred. aSabrina, this is Teresa Elliott and her brother, Wilfred.a After polite greetings, Teresa said in a voice br.i.m.m.i.n.g with gaiety, aDo let me take Sabrina from you for a few minutes, my lady. I should like to get to know her better.a Wilfred opened his mouth to say something, but Teresa said quickly, aWhy donat you dance with Miss Ainsley, Will. Sheas standing over there next to that woman who must weigh at least eighteen stone.a Sabrina smiled at the perfectly blank expression on Wilfredas face.

aBut I donata"a aYes, you do,a Teresa said firmly, and actually shoved him in Miss Ainsleyas direction.

Teresa turned back to Sabrina. aDonat keep my niece too long, Miss Elliott, for there are many other gentlemen she needs to meet.a aCertainly not,a Teresa said and took Sabrinaas arm. Her hold was strong.

aYouare new to London,a she said, sitting very close to the interloper on a small settee just behind a palm tree.

aYes, I have been with my aunt but a week.a aI saw you dancing with Viscount Derencourt, Miss Barresford.a aMy name is Eversleigh.a aAh yes, Miss Eversleigh. Was dear Phillip giving you lessons?a aWell, no, actually, I love to waltz and he is so very good at it.a aI donat suppose you realized that three waltzes will make everyone question your good sense? Your sense of propriety?a Sabrina, who had been openly admiring this lovely girl, now wondered what was going on here. aNo, I didnat realize it. Phillip was playing a jest on me.a aYou call him Phillip? How long have you known the viscount, Miss Eversleigh?a aNot very long. But heas a good friend.a aA good friend doesnat play fast and loose with a girlas reputation.a The good friend does if he wants the girl to marry him, Sabrina wanted to say, but didnat.

Teresaas eyes widened as memory suddenly fell into place. aEversleigh, did you say?a Her heart began to pound. It couldnat be, no, she couldnat be that lucky. She cleared her throat. She had to tread carefully. aI donat suppose that you just arrived from Yorks.h.i.+re, Miss Eversleigh?a aYes, my home is in Yorks.h.i.+re, near Leeds.a What was going on here? Why did this beautiful young lady care if she was from Yorks.h.i.+re? Or from Africa, for that matter?

Miss Elliottas nostrils flared. She felt her heart begin to sing as she said, aThen you are, naturally, very well acquainted with Vicount Derencourt.a There was danger in the air and Sabrina smelled it. She realized that Miss Elliott was jealous because she wanted Phillip. That was why she wanted to know all about Sabrina. But then she saw that the young ladyas eyes were slitted and mean, her lips tight. She wasnat stupid. The last place she wanted to be was here, with this beautiful young lady who looked ready to stick a knife in her ribs. She rose quickly. aI must return to my aunt, Miss Elliott. It was a pleasure to meet you and your brother. I was very ill and still tire quite quickly.a aYou tire easily, Miss Eversleigh? I should imagine so, given how you spent that week you were supposedly ill. But you werenat at all ill, were you? No, you met the viscount at Charlesas hunting box and you quite enjoyed yourself. I am only surprised that the viscount will still even speak to you. Surely he got his fill of you during that week.a She knew, Sabrina thought. She knew and she was going to use her knowledge to bury her. aPerhaps youad best explain yourself, Miss Elliott. Youare acting jealous and it ruins your looks, you know.a aJealous, Miss Eversleigh? I a.s.sure you I am not. Come, you donat have to play innocent with me. I know who you are. I know all about you. Tell me, how many lies did you feed your aunt so that she would introduce you into society?a aThere is no reason for you to behave in such an ill-bred manner, Miss Elliott. There is no reason for you to attack me just because you want Phillip. You may have Phillip. As I said, he is a friend, nothing more. You are welcome to him. However, if he has a brain, he will see the spite in you and run in the other direction. You arenat at all nice, Miss Elliott.a Teresa jumped to her feet, shaking her fist in Sabrinaas face. aYou vulgar little s.l.u.t. If Phillip is but a friend, then what would you term your cousin, Trevor Eversleigh?a It didnat occur to Sabrina to wonder how Miss Elliott knew about Trevor. She knew and that was all that mattered. Phillip had been right. Shead been a fool. Her new life of one week was about to crumble into dust.

Teresa saw the color drain from Sabrinaas face. She wanted to shout and dance. She had the little s.l.u.t, she had her but good. aI was a guest at Moreland. Ah yes, I see that you wonat even attempt to deny it. The gentlemen were in quite a fix, I a.s.sure you, trying to figure out what was to be done with you. Did you enjoy your five days with Phillip? Iave heard that he is kindness itself to his discarded mistresses. And that, you little b.i.t.c.h, is why he bothered to dance with you.a Miss Elliott was just one person. She was jealous. That was why she wanted to kill Sabrina, to kick her dead body. Surely all of society wasnat like Teresa Elliott. She heard Miss Elliott continuing to speak, as if from a great distance. aDid you intend to continue your wanton behavior in London? Everyone at Moreland was appalled that a girl of good family would seduce her own cousin, and her sisteras husband at that, then spend nearly a week with Phillip Mercerault.a Sabrina remembered her words to Phillip about making the world change. As she gazed into Miss Elliottas gloating face, she realized shead been grossly wrong. Society would not change its rules for her; she was nothing better than an outcast. She threw back her head and said, aItas ridiculous that I should try to defend myself to the likes of you, Miss Elliott. Youare a vicious, jealous girl. I pity you.a aI need no pity from a harlot.a Sabrina turned on her heel and made her way slowly back to her aunt. Perhaps she should have tried to reason with Miss Elliott, explained everything to her. But she knew it would have done no good. If she didnat have pride, she would have nothing. She wondered, almost dispa.s.sionately, what would happen to her now.

26.

Sabrina stood quietly beside a window in the small drawing room of her suite at the Cavendish Hotel, looking over the tops of red and gray brick buildings toward Bond Street. Although the window was tightly closed against the winter wind, it made her feel less lonely if she fancied she could hear the people on the street below speaking to each other as they pa.s.sed by her window, carrying on civil conversations about whatever it was people discussed when they were not alone. But their conversations would be civil. They would be friendly to one another.

She turned away from the window. She heard Hickles, her newly acquired maid, moving about in the next room. At least she was not completely alone, although it was difficult to count Hickles as anything remotely resembling a confidante. Sabrina grimaced as she pictured her maid, an obese older spinster who contrived to look somehow disapproving even when she smiled, a rare event during the past three days. But she couldnat afford to be choosy.

She chewed on her thumbnail. Things could be worse. At least she wasnat dest.i.tute. When shead paid her visit to h.o.a.reas Bank to secure her own inheritance, she knew it was on the tongue of every male employed there to tell her to hie herself to a drawing room and serve tea, as she was supposed to do. But shead just kept her chin up and insisted, until, finally, she was allowed to see Mr. Boniface, the man responsible. At long last it had been done. Her funds were now in her name and there was nothing her aunt Barresford could do about it, and she knew the lady had tried, for Mr. Boniface had sent a clerk around to tell her of her auntas machinations.

She sat wearily down in a stiff-backed brocade chair and stared blankly at the wall opposite her. A poorly painted picture of a milkmaid faced her. She smiled now, at herself, a tight little smile that meant nothing, remembering how she had still felt some hope after her disastrous confrontation with Teresa Elliott just five days before. Although her aunt had looked at her rather oddly when shead pleaded a headache at Almackas, shead taken her home without questioning her.

How glib shead been, telling Phillip that she would change the world, insisting that no one would have any reason to hurt her. The very next day shead learned what it was like to receive cold stares from ladies shead never seen before in her life, to be ignored by supposed friends of her auntas. One gentleman shead met that disastrous evening at Almackas had actually leered at her and rubbed his hands together.

Sabrinaas confrontation with her aunt came about that very afternoon. Shead intended to tell her aunt the whole of it, truly she had, but there was Lady Morton waiting for them upon their return, her face sharp with antic.i.p.ation. Sabrina went to her room, reasoning that she was, after all, the granddaughter of an earl and not some poor relation. Perhaps Aunt Barresford would understand and be able to smooth the matter over with society. She had not long to wait for her auntas summons to the library.

aSit down, Sabrina.a Sabrina looked searchingly at her aunt. Her cheeks were a mottled red and her eyes were bright and hard. aLady Morton has spoken to you?a She spoke very quietly, trying to keep her voice neutral. She glanced about the library, half expecting to see that lady still there, but they were quite alone. A library was a strange name for a room that held only Egyptian furnis.h.i.+ngs and heavy draperies.

aCan you doubt it?a Lady Barresford asked, her voice harder now, lower.

aAunt, I can explain all of it. I should have told you last night, but I honestly didnat think anyone would care about what Teresa Elliott had said. I found out differently today. I would have told you, but Lady Morton was here and I gather she couldnat wait to fill your ears. Iam sorry, but please, let me explain.a aYes, Iam positive you would have told me all of it, yes I certainly am. You would have smiled, I a.s.sume, while you confessed your trollopas behavior with Phillip Mercerault in Yorks.h.i.+re. Lord, first Elizabeth and now you. At least your sister didnat come to my home with her reputation in shreds, hoping to pull the wool over my eyes.a aAunt, I donat know what Lady Morton told you, but you must let me explain. You must believe that it is all lies, started by that wretched girl Teresa Elliott.a Lady Barresford stood directly in front of her, her hands fisted at her sides, her face very red. aI see. So you deny that you ran away from Monmouth Abbey?a aNo, of course not. I had to. Trevor tried to rape me. I couldnat stay because Elizabeth took his side. He would have come to my bedchamber if I hadnat run away. He would have succeeded.a aTrevor tried to rape you? Thatas your story. Not a very likely story that, my girl. Heas been married to Elizabeth for only a month. I suppose youall tell me that you didnat spend five daysa"alonea"with Phillip Mercerault.a aI was ill, very ill. He found me unconscious in the snow in Eppingham Forest. I was on my way to Borhamwood, to the stage. I wanted to come to you. He saved my life. There was nothing more than that, Aunt, you must believe me. I could have been his little sister for all he cared. He did nothing. Believe me, I was so ill I couldnat have done anything. It was Charles Askbridge who made Phillip believe head compromised me, but I would have none of it. I did nothing wrong.a Lady Barresford stared down at her in disbelief. aYouare trying to tell me that the viscount agreed that head compromised you? Youare claiming that he made you an offer? That is what you want me to believe now?a Sabrina said quietly, aYes, he made me an offer. I refused him. He didnat compromise me. He saved my life. Why should he have to marry me? He did nothing wrong. I did nothing wrong. We didnat even know each other.a aYou miserable little liar,a Lady Barresford fairly shrieked at her. She waved her fist in Sabrinaas face. aNo girl would be such a fool as to turn down Viscount Derencourt, much less one who has spent five days alone with him. What you really mean to tell me, isnat it, my girl, is that he offered to take you on as his mistress?a aNo, he couldnat do that. Iam an earlas granddaughter. Iam a lady. I donat understand you, Aunt.a aYou seduced him and he offered to let you continue. Thereas nothing difficult to understand in that. Heas a man, a very accomplished, a very handsome, sought-after man. Youare a very stupid girl.a aPhillip could never act like that. Why do you insult him and then call him accomplished and handsome? He is those things and he is also very kind. He was very good to me.a Lady Barresford shook her head in disgust. aIam not insulting him, but to call him kind merely shows what a provincial you are. He has a grand reputation with ladies. He can get any lady he wishes to toss up her skirts for him. He has no interest in marriage. All understand that. He is only twenty-six, after all. There is no way he would offer for you. Youare lying and I wonat have it.a She hit her palm to her forehead. aBut when allas said and done, youare still an earlas granddaughter. What in heavenas name am I to do with you now?a Yet another person to decide what to do with Sabrina Eversleigh, she thought, and stared down at her toes.

aYou will go home to Yorks.h.i.+re,a Lady Barresford said with sudden decision. aYou will try to be conciliating with Elizabeth and Trevor, for there is your grandfather to think about. You donat want to make him more ill than he is now. Yes, you will be nice, you will be civil, you will apologize. I hope Trevor and Elizabeth will forgive you.a Sabrina raised her eyes to her auntas face. aI canat go back to Monmouth Abbey, Aunt. Even though you donat wish to believe me, Trevor did try to rape me. I have no doubt that if I were to return unprotected, he would succeed unless I shot him, and I would have to. Then our line would die out since heas the only male heir. As to Elizabeth, I can no longer live in the same house with her. She has changed toward me.a aDo you blame her? You tried to seduce her husband of one month.a aI did not. Why wonat you believe me?a Lady Barresford looked like she wanted to shoot her. aBelieve you? That is nonsense. You may well be stupid but I am not, Sabrina. Oh, good Lord, what do you intend to do? You must know that after all that has happened, you canat remain here.a Sabrina rose. aYouare wrong, Aunt, about all of it. You wonat even consider that Iam telling you the absolute truth. Why? You said I was stupid and it was nonsense, but it wasnat, itas not.a aDonat be ridiculous. Even blind old Mrs. Baggil could see the truth of this. You stayed with Phillip Mercerault for five days. Of course he bedded you.a aVery well. Iall be out of your house as soon as I can pack.a aAnd just where do you think you are going, miss?a aI wonat be on the streets, if thatas what worries you. You forget that the money you have freely been lavis.h.i.+ng on the both of us belongs to me. I bid you good-bye, Aunt.a aMiss Sabrina.a Sabrina drew her gaze from the wall to her maidas doughy, satisfied face. She just couldnat bear it another moment. Did every person, regardless of station, know of her disgrace and revel in it? She said, her chin up, aI am Lady Sabrina and that is what you will call me. Do you understand?a Hickles obviously understood, but it was a trial for her. She was bored. Accepting the ladyas position, shead thought she would see a procession of gentlemen march through her rooms, but so far, nothing. Just the two of them, and the lady was silent and withdrawn. Finally, Hickles nodded. aLady Sabrina, itas teatime. Would you like me to order it up?a aYes, thank you, Hickles.a She saw the avid gleam in her maidas eyes, heard the ill-disguised impatience in her tone. How odd it is, she thought, staring after the woman, that even the servants knew of her disgrace. She certainly hadnat said anything. How had Hickles known? Of course, something else Hickles knew very well was that she was the only one to provide Sabrinaa"an eighteen-year-old-girla"with any respectability at all.

Sabrina watched the clock on the mantelpiece move its arms slowly into evening. She had no desire to leave the Cavendish Hotel for fear that she would meet someone she knew, or more accurately someone who knew her. She thought of the gentleman who had openly ogled her. She wished he were here so she could hit him.

When the clock finished chiming its four strokes, she realized with something of a start that it was Tuesday afternoon. She was to have ridden in the park with Phillip on Monday. She wondered if head been delayed at his home and was unaware of what had happened to her.

Phillip had known everything, had warned her again and again, and shead laughed in his face. She looked at herself in the narrow mirror over the mantelpiece. Her face was a strangeras, set, thin, dark circles beneath her eyes.

aItas been proved,a she said to that pathetic stranger in the mirror, ayouare a fool. A very stupid fool. A fool who has no future. All you have is a string of days that will stretch out without end into months and then into years.a She felt sudden fury at the injustice of it all and smashed her fisted hand into the mirror. The gla.s.s shattered and she looked at the blood that was beginning to trickle down her fingers.

Toward midnight, after hours of frustrated thinking, an idea came to her. The world hadnat changed, but she certainly had. Shead nurtured romantic ideas about a future that could no longer be hers, then shead allowed herself to wallow in self-pity, to act the broken, helpless female.

Yes, finally an idea. She would have to have the resolve to get it done. But she could do it. She knew she could do it. She finally fell into a deep sleep.

Phillip didnat return to London on Monday. He returned from Dinwitty Manor on Sat.u.r.day, earlier than expected. The fact of the matter was, he had missed her, curse those incredible violet eyes of hers. He couldnat stop thinking about her, wondering what she was doing, wondering if she was finally well and back to her former energy, which he imagined was formidable, hoping she was eating enough, wondering if she would like Cookas offerings here at Dinwitty Manor, and knew shead swoon at the food here, everyone did.

Head come back to disaster. He sat now in the library of his town house on Wednesday, staring thoughtfully into s.p.a.ce, his fingers wrapped about a folded piece of stationery.

It had taken nearly more determination than he laid claim to not to go to Sabrina as soon as head known the full extent of her disgrace. Head even had Dambler speak to other servants so that he would know everything. It was bad. But head stayed put. He guessed that if head gone to the Cavendish Hotel on Sat.u.r.day or even Sunday or Monday, she would have been more furious than reasonable. He could easily imagine her anger, her bitterness, her sense of injustice at what had happened. Head even wondered if shead blamed him for being right. Of course she would. The messenger always got the knife in the innards.

He unfolded the note and read it swiftly through once again. At last. He doubted he could have stayed away from her much longer. She had a business matter to discuss with him, did she? At least she still had guts. Shead thought it all through and come up with a solution. He couldnat wait to hear what she had to say. It seemed to him now that head done the right thing by not going to her immediately, by offering his services yet again. No, now she was the one to offer. Shead finally come to her senses. He wondered as he allowed Dambler to a.s.sist him to dress exactly what she would say to him.

27.

On Wednesday at half past four in the afternoon, Viscount Derencourt lightly knocked on the door of the suite of rooms at the Cavendish Hotel. Thank the good Lord she had money. Head found that out quickly. If she hadnat secured her inheritance, he would have gone to her immediately.

A heavy woman of indeterminate age and frankly vulgar manner admitted him as if he were a prize goose for her dinner.

aIam Viscount Derencourt. You may announce me to your mistress.a He was haughty and cold, guessing that Sabrina had endured more than enough disapproval from this wretched person. There was an avidity in her that truly repelled him. He wondered how she behaved around Sabrina.

aAfter youave announced me, you may take yourself off.a He saw the womanas slack-jawed disappointment before she turned and led him into a small drawing room.

aLady Sabrina, Viscount Derencourt is here to see you.a Although Sabrina had dressed herself with care, Phillip was appalled at her appearance. Her face was pale and drawn and she looked at him as if she fully expected him to denounce her, just as everyone else had.

aMy lord, Iam delighted you could come,a she said with such fear he wanted to simply take her in his arms and tell her never to worry about another thing for as long as she lived. But he couldnat. She had a business proposition for him. He would play by the rules shead set. He didnat move. He watched her turn to the officious maid. aHickles, you may go now. Do dress warmly, for it is quite chilly outside.a Phillip shrugged out of his greatcoat and gloves. As Sabrina took them, he said, aWhat did you do to your hand? Hold still, let me see.a aItas nothing,a she said and whipped her bandaged hand behind her. aThank you for coming, my lord. Will you please be seated?a aNo, I first want to see what you did to your hand. Who bandaged it? A blind beggar?a aNo, I did. It was difficult to bandage it well with just one hand. I cut it on a mirror. It isnat important. It doesnat hurt at all.a But he just stood there, his hands out. Finally, with a snort, she brought up her hand. He unwrapped the bandage and laid the cut bare. aItas not too bad,a he said finally, abut I want to pour some brandy on it, just to make sure itas really clean. Do you have anything of that sort here?a She nodded and turned away to the sideboard. The brandy was probably very cheap, but as medicine it surely wouldnat matter.

aCome here,a he said, and walked to the window. He opened it, then held her hand outside. He poured the brandy over her hand. She didnat even jerk or moan. Fortunately there was no one walking below at that particular moment.

aNow, let me bandage this right. Did that hurt?a Her hand was burning like it was on fire, but she shook her head. He wrapped her own bandage very carefully around her hand, then knotted it. aThere, how does that feel?a aItas fine, thank you.a aWould you like to tell me how you did it?a aNo. I was simply clumsy. Really, itas not important. Please, my lord.a He nodded and sat down. He steepled his fingers and smiled at her.

aWould you care for tea?a aNo. I daresay that conversation is what I would like most of all right at this moment.a aVery well.a She sat down opposite him. She was calm, seemingly in excellent control of herself. She was behaving quite well. If he showed her his concern, she would likely think that he was pitying her, and that, he knew, she would never accept.

She didnat say anything, just stared at him. To get her started, he said, aI received your note, Sabrina. You wrote that you have a business matter to discuss with me?a aYes, I do,a she said finally, staring at a point just behind his left shoulder. aI suppose you know why Iam here.a aOh, yes,a he said easily. aI returned to London last Sat.u.r.day. I must say that youare quite the talk. The stories have gotten so extraordinary that neither you nor I could be considered just ordinary human beings. My prowess alone must make every man in London gnash his teeth in envy.a She stared at him, in his face now. aYou returned on Sat.u.r.day? You knew what had happened and you did nothing? Itas Wednesday. Wednesday!a aYes, thatas true. Now, what is your business matter?a She rose and drew herself up ramrod stiff. aYouare right, my lorda"a aPhillip.a aWell, yes, you are Phillip. You were right about everything. I find that Iam disgraced, all because of one lady, Miss Teresa Elliott, who, I believe, wants you for herself. Even though I told her that she could have you, with my blessing, it didnat matter. As you said, my lord, it would take but one vicious tongue and the damage would be done. My aunt, unfortunately, was not at all inclined to take my part in the matter; indeed, she believed everything anyone told her. She wanted me to return to Monmouth Abbey. You know I couldnat do that, so I left her house.a aI wonat waste your time reminding you that I told you this would happen.a aThank you. I appreciate your restraint.a He just smiled at her. aYes. And this famous business matter of yours?a aIave thought about this a lot. Iave never been without friends nor so much alone in my life, and I donat want to continue in this way. Itas very difficult. Itas perhaps even more than difficult. Itas d.a.m.ning. I canat continue to do it.a He could well imagine. So even marriage to him was preferable, he thought, without too much pain to his own vanity. It had cost her a great deal to admit this, particularly to him.

aSo you are lonely and alone. You donat like it. So what is it you want to do, Sabrina?a aI want to make you an offer. I want you to marry me. Itas an honorable offer, Phillip. If you agree, you can have my remaining nine thousand five hundred and fifty pounds and my dowry. I have no idea how large it is, but it is probably sizable. The reason the ten thousand pounds isnat intact is because my aunt Barresford dipped quite liberally into my funds, for both of us.a aYouare doubtless an heiress, Sabrina. Probably as much of an heiress as the Dinwitty lady back in the last century. That in itself makes this a very tempting business offer. Now, let me understand you. If I marry you, you will turn all your fortune over to me?a She hated the sound of it, hated giving away her independence. Shead only had it for five days. He sounded indifferent, as if they were counting sheep or turnips, as if it werenat about marriage and about her future and saving her. aYes,a she said, forcing herself to keep calm, matter-of-fact. aIn addition to all my money, well, I have given this a lot of thought.a She cleared her throat. It wouldnat be so difficult to say once it was out of her mouth. aI will also offer you your freedom. Youare young for a man, which I donat understand since youare eight years older than I am, but youare considered younger than I for marriage purposes. In any case, you are not through spreading yourself throughout all the ladies of London. You may continue to spread yourself to the extent you wish to do so. My aunt told me that youad never willingly wed as yet, because of all the still available ladies that youad want to enjoy. Thus I knew I would have to make my offer worth your while.a aAh, I understand now. Youare offering me my freedom, without any interference from you.a aYes.a Phillip laughed, he couldnat help himself. aI already have my freedom, Sabrina. Marriage doesnat curtail a manas freedom unless heas a fool. Isnat there something else besides all your funds to interest me?a She looked away, unwilling to let him see how his careless words sliced into her. She said barely above a whisper, aYou can also have me if that is of any interest to you. But Iam sure you already know that Iam young and ignorant and really not at all toothsome. Iam probably nothing close to the ladies you can choose from. But there it is. I have nothing else, other than my mare, who is at Monmouth Abbey, and sheas lame.a aA mare is something, even a lame one.a She raised her head at that and he saw the beginnings of outrage. Excellent. aI am something as well.a aYes, I suppose you are. Now, in addition to my freedom, which I already have, my part in all these machinations is to save you from disgrace. Give you the protection of my name.a aThatas right.a It sounded pathetic put that way. She was pathetic. There was no way around that. She waited to see what head say. Shead never hated anything quite so much in her life, except, of course, being at Trevoras mercy.

He rose and extended his hand. She gave him hers and he shook it. aI will accept your offer, Sabrina.a For a moment he thought she would faint with relief. Then color flooded her face, healthy color. He looked into that thin vivid face of hers, into those incredible eyes. aI seem to recall you saying that you wouldnat marry where there is no love.a She wanted to strike him, but she knew she couldnat. She was the supplicant. But she was furious and he knew she was furious and she was certain he mocked her. aYouare not stupid,a she said. aEverything has changed. My former life is gone. Actually, here Iam going to marry you and I donat even like you at this moment.a And then the bitterness flowed out of her mouth. She simply couldnat help it. aI canat believe it! Youare still wonderful, greeted warmly by both men and women, invited everywhere. Youare not seen as morally bankrupt, but I am. Itas not fair!a aThatas true. Iave never understood it myself, but thatas the way things work. I told you once that I knew this jungle very well and that you didnat. Play by the rules, Sabrina, and youall survive this. Youave already asked me to marry you. Marrying me was rule number one. You see, youare already learning.a He sat back down in his chair and stretched his long legs out in front of him. He leaned back, lacing his fingers behind his head.

aI will learn all your d.a.m.nable rules. Now, would you care for more tea?a Phillip sat forward suddenly and tapped his fingertips together. aTell me, Sabrina, do you really offer yourself to me as well as your money and your horse?a Her hand shook. He saw it and she cursed. He heard that and smiled. aIf I must,a she said at last. aBut itas true, what I said. Iam not beautiful, Iam skinny, and I donat know anything. If you werenat disgusted with me, then youad laugh.a aI see. Now, you offered me my freedoma"a aYes.a aA freedom I already have. Now my question is do you intend to take a lover?a She turned as white as the walls. aOh no, thatas repellent! After Trevora"oh no, never.a aBut youave offered me your own precious self. Will you be able to survive it if I lay my hands on you?a She looked at her feet. aI donat know. I also donat know whatas involved in this mating business. From my experience with Trevor, I never want to have anything to do with any of it.a aWhat if I told you that itas not that bad at all? That, given the right man, you just may find you like lovemaking.a aNo, at least I canat imagine enjoying it right now. Iall do my duty. I promised. Yes, I told you that you could have me if you wished. I will keep to my end of the bargain.a aThat sounds just dandy,a Phillip said, and pictured Sabrina lying still as a statue on the bed with him panting over her. It was an awful vision. Still, he knew what had happened to her. Head been a b.a.s.t.a.r.d even to bring up the matter. She was terrified of men, and no wonder.

He rose and placed his hand on her shoulder. She stiffened. He wasnat surprised, but something inside him tightened, just a bit.

aSabrina,a he said, his voice gentle as a soft summer rain, aIam sorry to frighten you. It wasnat well done of me. Youare safe from me, I swear it to you. I will never force you to do anything that frightens or repels you. Iam happy to accept your offer. I will try to make you a good husband.a He paused a moment and lightly flicked his finger over her cheek. aWe will do well together, youall see. Now, there is much to be done.a She looked up at him, her expression grave. aIs there a chance that my shame will bring you disgrace?a aNo. Most people will think that Iave done the right thing. Trust me to see that no one will ever hurt you again. Will you?a aMy money is sufficient for you to make the sacrifice?a aMore than sufficient. However, if I ever find myself reduced to living in a ditch, why, Iall just strangle you and find myself another heiress.a He was kind. She was relieved. Indeed, she found the remnant of a smile. aI donat want you to live in a ditch. I will school myself to practice the most stringent economies.a He pulled her to her feet and lightly kissed her brow. aIall teach you how to make viscountas bread.a aOur first economy,a she said and let him draw her against his chest. For a moment she rested her cheek against his shoulder. She was no longer afraid. aIall try to make you a good wife, Phillip, I swear it.a He gave a low, deep laugh, then hugged her tightly. aA good wife. Now that is an appalling thought.a

28.

Phillip stood by the mantelpiece in the library of his town house. He looked first at Charles Askbridge and then at Rohan Carrington.

aI believe thatas the whole of it. Charlie, can you think of anything else to help Rohan get the full picture of this wretched debacle?a aNo, but I donat mind telling you Iam more relieved than I can say that Sabrina has finally come to her senses.a Rohan Carrington, Baron Mountvale, was shaking his head. aThis makes my belly cramp, Phillip. Oh, I know it isnat all that unusual, but to actually hear firsthand how a supposedly honorable man tried to rape an innocent girl under his protection. I really would prefer to kill him. If I were the old earl, I wouldnat want that manas blood in my future generations.a Phillip nodded. aAll of us would like to kill him, but it comes down to preserving the line. The rotter is the next earl, curse his miserable hide, bad blood and all.a Charles said, aAt least Phillip has ensured that Trevor and Elizabeth will tell no more lies about Sabrina.a aI still would like to kill him. So would Susannah,a Rohan added, picturing his wife of six months in his mindas eye and her rage upon hearing this.

Phillip said, aMy G.o.d, the fellow will be my brother-in-law. Howas that for a fist in the face?a Rohan Carrington said, aWhat do you want us to do, Phillip?a aI need you to be your most autocratic and persuasive, Rohan. Do you think we can pull it off?a aOh yes,a Rohan said, sipping his brandy. aThereas but one problem I see looming and that is the aunt, Lady Barresford. If she can be brought around to see reason, then I daresay we shouldnat have much difficulty with the rest of society. Itas the relatives that always cause the most problems. Itas a pity my mother isnat here. She could deal with Lady Barresford and still have enough energy to waltz the entire night.a aAh no, Rohan, leave that lady to me.a He actually rubbed his hands together. aOh yes, I want the privilege of dealing with that one. Not only will she reinstate Sabrina in her good graces for all society to see, she will also hold the private ceremony at her home. The wedding festivities will, of course, be held here.a aHow much time do we have?a Charles asked.

aI want the ring on her finger by Sat.u.r.day afternoon. In short, gentlemen, we have four days.a Actually, what Phillip wanted more than anything was to see Sabrina smile.

aThis is close to a miracle youare asking for,a Charles said.

aThatas right,a Phillip said and grinned at them. aWhy do you think I got the two of you over here? Well, shall we take on the world?a Rohan raised his gla.s.s. aTo your imminent demise as a bachelor. Itas not bad, Phillip, trust me. Susannahas my very best friend. Actually, truth be told, I really canat imagine how I got along without her.a aIall remain a bachelor,a Charles said. He drank down the rest of his brandy. aItas a challenge to while away the winter hours. Very well, Phillip. Iam off to Whiteas to begin working my magic.a aAnd I,a Rohan said, shaking Phillipas hand, aam off to see my dearest friend, Lady Sally Jersey.a aThank you both,a Phillip said. aReally, thank you.a After Rohan Carrington took his leave, Charles said, aWhat do you intend to do about Teresa Elliott? It is she, you know, who brought the whole thing about in the first place.a Phillip shrugged. aIf it hadnat been Teresa, it would have been someone else.a aTeresa wanted you. What if she treats Sabrina badly?a aWhy, Iall ruin her.a Charles nodded. He believed him.

aBesides, Charles, after we get this d.a.m.ned wedding over with and Sabrina has a chance to settle down, Teresa Elliott will discover quickly that sheas no match at all for Viscountess Derencourt.a The following morning, after fortifying himself with two strong cups of Spanish coffee and a haunch of rare sirloin, Phillip drove his curricle to the Barresford town house. Although the day was overcast, he was in good spirits; indeed, he was looking forward to his meeting with Lady Barresford. He jumped lightly from his curricle, tossed the reins to his tiger, Lans...o...b.., and walked up the wide front steps.

aI shall announce myself,a he said to the butler. He heard the man groan as he made his way to the Barresford drawing room on the second floor. He wasnat at all surprised that the butler knew exactly who he was. He doubtless knew everything, like every servant in London.

aGood morning, maaam,a he said in an obnoxiously cheerful voice as he walked into the drawing room.

Lady Barresford was on her feet in a surprisingly short amount of time, given her bulk. aMy lord. What are you doing here?a He saw the pen and stationery spread on the small writing table. He wondered how many letters shead already written, bemoaning her betrayal by her immoral niece. His smile never slipped.

aI hope youall forgive me visiting at such an early hour, maaam. However, you already seem to be quite busy writing letters. Now I can provide you with good news to write.a aYou will leave, my lord. I have nothing at all to say to you.a She took a step toward him and waved her fat hands toward the door. aI imagine youare here to plead for Sabrina, but it will do you no good. I will never speak to her again. Leave, if you please.a He eyed her with a joyful expression. aSurely, maaam, you would like to visit for a little while with your future nephew-in-law?a Lady Barresford slowly lowered her hand. She stared at him. aI donat believe you. You havenat offered for her, itas impossible. No gentleman would, at least not now, now that itas known what she is, and everyone has had the opportunity to chew it over for a week.a aNot so impossible. Iave offered for Sabrina several times, maaam. I suppose I must thank you. If you hadnat treated her so badly I doubt she would have ever accepted my offer.a aYou wouldnat dare call my behavior into question, my lord.a aWhat I would say, maaam, is that my future wife doesnat appear to be blessed with relatives who care for her, protect her, and, naturally, take her side. However, Iam more concerned now with societyas behavior. I think that we can, together, turn off most of the gossip. Within a month there will be a new and more diverting scandal that will make everyone forget everything.a Lady Barresfordas mighty bosom was heaving. She was angry and she allowed her anger full rein. aThat little creature is a disgrace to the Eversleighs and to the Barresfords. Lies she told me, all lies. Who could believe such absurd tales as she told?a aAnyone who knows her even slightly would believe her. She doesnat lie. However, itas immaterial to me whether or not you believe her or me. What is important, however, is her acceptance by society, as my wife.a Lady Barresford said with a good deal of satisfaction, aNo one with any decency will ever recognize her again. As for you, my lord, were I you, I should seriously wonder how many men sheas been with before you marry her.a Phillip pictured her wrinkled throat between his hands. But telling her what he thought of her wasnat the best approach. He would save that for a special treat at a future date. But his voice was very hard as he said, aListen to me, maaam, I have had enough of your tiresome venom. Youare speaking of your niece and my betrothed. You will now oblige me by sitting down and listening to what I have to say.a Lady Barresford didnat want to sit. She wanted to rant, to tell him how Sabrina had deceived her, but the viscount looked determined. It occurred to her then that perhaps it would be better if Sabrina could be rehabilitated. Surely it would reflect on her if Sabrina was tossed out of London. She sat down.

aHere is whatas going to happen, maaam. Sabrina and I will be married here in a small ceremony on Sat.u.r.day. I will return her to you tomorrow and you will treat her with the respect she deserves.a aLet her back into my house? Thatas ridiculous. Why, look at all the little wretch has done to me! If my reputation werenat so excellent, her actions could have brought me low.a Phillip wanted to strangle her, but he smiled instead. aIn short, maaam, we could have a scandal that perhaps could touch you, bring you low, just as you said. Would it not be preferable to scotch all gossip now? Can you think of a better solution than to have Sabrina safely wed to me? I a.s.sure you that my friends are at this moment putting a stop to most of the gossip-mongering. You wonat have to fear for your position in society, maaam, if you give in now.