‘Forgive me.’

Jane gazed up into his eyes. For a moment she felt weak and vulnerable, close to the tears she had been suppressing.

George hesitated, then bent his head, his lips brushing her brow. The caress comforted her, though she ought to have rejected it. Instead she wanted to cling to him.

Jane felt his arms close about her. He held her next to his body and his lips touched her hair; he stroked the back of her neck with his fingertips, his warmth comforting her. He did nothing to indicate a desire to make love to her. His embrace was one of comfort and reassurance—nothing more.

For a moment Jane wished that she might stay in his arms for ever, but then she remembered who she was and why she was with this man and drew back …

SECRETS AND SCANDALS

Nothing stays secret for long in Regency Society!

The truth threatens to reveal a scandal

for all three couples in this

exciting new trilogy from

Anne Herries

THE DISAPPEARING DUCHESS—

February 2012

THE MYSTERIOUS LORD MARLOWE—

March 2012

THE SCANDALOUS LORD LANCHESTER—

April 2012

You can also find these as eBooks at www.millsandboon.co.uk

About the Author

ANNE HERRIES lives in Cambridgeshire, where she is fond of watching wildlife, and spoils the birds and squirrels that are frequent visitors to her garden. Anne loves to write about the beauty of nature, and sometimes puts a little into her books, although they are mostly about love and romance. She writes for her own enjoyment, and to give pleasure to her readers. She is a winner of the Romantic Novelists’ Association Romance Prize. She invites readers to contact her on her website: www.lindasole.co.uk

Previous novels by the same author:

THE RAKE’S REBELLIOUS LADY

A COUNTRY MISS IN HANOVER SQUARE*

AN INNOCENT DEBUTANTE IN HANOVER SQUARE*

THE MISTRESS OF HANOVER SQUARE*

FORBIDDEN LADY†

THE LORD’S FORCED BRIDE†

THE PIRATE’S WILLING CAPTIVE†

HER DARK AND DANGEROUS LORD†

BOUGHT FOR THE HAREM

HOSTAGE BRIDE

*A Season in Town trilogy †The Melford Dynasty

And in the Regency series The Steepwood Scandal:

LORD RAVENSDEN’S MARRIAGE

COUNTERFEIT EARL

And in The Hellfire Mysteries:

AN IMPROPER COMPANION

A WEALTHY WIDOW

A WORTHY GENTLEMAN

Did you know that some of these novels are also available as eBooks? Visit www.millsandboon.co.uk

The Mysterious

Lord Marlowe

Anne Herries

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Prologue

‘That is my only offer. Take it or leave it.’

The tall gentleman looked into the face of the man who had spoken and knew him for a rogue. Blake was lying through his teeth and he would be a fool to believe one word the man said—and yet what could he do but agree to the devil’s proposal?

‘You are asking me to help you abduct a respectable young woman?’ he asked because he needed to say the words aloud to get them clear in his mind. ‘You refuse my money and demand that I go along with this outrageous affair in exchange for the return of my property—am I right?’

‘The girl is willing enough. She wants it to look as if it is an abduction so that her guardian will not refuse our marriage. He holds the purse strings and will release her fortune to save her reputation.’

‘I do not see why you need my help if the girl is willing to wed you?’

‘I must be sure that no harm comes to her. The men I employ aren’t of the best character and they might decide to carry her off themselves for the ransom. Her guardian hates me and if he guessed I was involved he would never release her fortune to me. Therefore I must employ someone I can trust—and if you wish to protect a certain lady’s good name you will oblige me.’

‘You swear to me that this young lady is willing?’

‘I have said it,’ Blake grunted and glared at him. ‘Please yourself, sir. If you want those letters returned, then that is my price.’

Blake was in his late thirties, good-looking enough in his own way—apart from his odd eyes. Of differing shades, they gave him a strange appearance, which was slightly sinister.

‘Then you leave me little choice. I do not see why you need my help, but if it is the only way …’

‘You will speak to her, reassure her, stay with her until I join you both at a place we shall agree upon. My men will do the business, but you must keep your word and stay with her until we meet.’

The tall gentleman frowned, certain now that Blake was lying about the girl’s willingness to be abducted. His instincts told him to walk away. He should go to a magistrate and tell him what he knew—but if he did that someone he cared for would lose everything. He was caught between the devil and destruction. Besides, he did not even know the young woman’s name; if he did not help Blake the abduction would still take place. Blake would find someone else to do his dirty work and then there would be no chance of thwarting him.

‘Where will you be whilst this deed takes place?’

‘I shall be nearby, watching you. My men shall take the young lady to a fresh carriage that I shall have waiting—you will accompany her until we get to the rendezvous point and then you will go your own way.’

‘And then you will return my property?’

‘You have my word on it.’

The word of a cheat and a liar. He did not for one moment believe that the girl was willing, but if he walked away now more than one lady might be ruined. If he agreed to this outrageous proposal, he might be able to spirit the lady away from under Blake’s nose—and still get the letters that could ruin the good name of the sister he loved.

‘Very well,’ he said and offered his hand. ‘I shall act as your go-between—and you will give me the letters?’

‘Have I not given my word?’

‘Renege on it and you will be sorry.’ He looked at Blake, his gaze narrowed. ‘When and where is this abduction to take place?’

Chapter One

‘I have been dreading this visit,’ Mariah, Lady Fanshawe, said and turned to look at her companion in the carriage, which was taking them to the house of her late husband’s sister. ‘I do not think I could have borne it had you not agreed to accompany me, Jane. Winston’s family never approved of me, you know. His sister and Aunt Cynthia thought me too flighty—and accused me of marrying him simply for his fortune.’

‘It is not like you to give way to a fit of nerves,’ Jane Lanchester said, putting out a hand to touch her companion’s hand. ‘They cannot harm you, you know, Mariah. Winston left almost his entire fortune to you. His relatives may not like the situation, but they cannot change the will you told me that your husband went to some lengths to make certain you were protected.’

‘The income is certainly mine, but the capital is tied up in a trust,’ Mariah confided. ‘I intended to ask Justin what I ought to do, but Lucinda has been a little unwell because of the baby. After all they’ve been through, I decided that it was best not to involve him in my affairs.’

Jane nodded, understanding perfectly. Justin, Duke of Avonlea, had been too worried about his wife, Lucinda, to become embroiled in Mariah’s troubles, but it seemed that she was anxious about something and needed to open her heart to someone.

‘You can tell me everything, you know,’ Jane said. ‘I am certain that my brother would do everything in his power to assist you were he here. Unfortunately, he was called suddenly to Paris on some business for the government.’

Mariah nodded, an odd look in her eyes. She had thought Lord Lanchester’s visit to Paris might have been for another reason, but nothing had come of it. He remained there after Lucinda, the duke and Mariah had returned to England and no doubt his sister knew more of his affairs than she.

She smothered a sigh. ‘Andrew is a good friend, but he is suffering himself at the moment. You do know that he was very much in love with Lucinda Avonlea?’

‘I know that Andrew found her charming and was concerned for her when she was embroiled in that unpleasant business of the blackmail,’ Jane agreed. ‘I also know that he admires you greatly, Mariah—particularly the way you handled yourself when that dreadful man tried to murder Lucinda.’

‘Lord Lanchester is a decent and honourable man,’ Mariah agreed, a little nerve flicking at her right temple. ‘He is a good friend—but I am not sure that he could help with this problem.’

‘Why do you not tell me? Perhaps a lawyer …’

Mariah hesitated. ‘My husband’s lawyer told me that the bulk of the fortune Winston left me is in the trust fund. I can draw the income, which is generous, and I have a small amount of capital—but the rest will not be released until I remarry. Winston thought I might fall prey to fortune hunters. The problem is that my trustees must approve my marriage.’

‘Ah, I begin to see …’ Jane saw her friend’s mutinous look and smiled. ‘You do not wish to be told whom you may marry by these trustees.’

‘And they are Winston’s sister, a querulous old woman, and her meddling husband,’ Mariah said and pouted. ‘My lawyer said that if the man I wished to marry was of good birth and above suspicion they could not withhold their consent, but why should I be beholden to them?’

‘Surely they would not seek to interfere?’ Jane asked, looking at her anxiously. Mariah was both brave and beautiful but she was also stubborn and at times contrary. ‘Is there someone you would wish to marry?’ she suggested gently.

‘Well, I thought there might be, but—’ Mariah broke off as they heard two shots followed by a scream, then the horses came to an abrupt halt and the two ladies were thrown into a heap on the floor of the carriage.

‘Lawks a’ mercy!’ an uncultured voice exclaimed. ‘There’s two of ’em, guv. What do we do now?’ Jane registered the fact that the man was pointing a wicked-looking pistol at them. He jerked it at them, indicating that they should step down from the carriage. ‘Which one of yer is Mariah Fanshawe?’

Mariah was holding a kerchief to her forehead and appeared not to hear the question. Jane thought quickly. If she were not mistaken, this was an abduction. Mariah was an heiress and it was more than likely her fortune they were after than her.

‘I am,’ Jane said looking at Mariah. ‘Say nothing, Jane. We are in some danger.’

‘No …’ Mariah had become aware of the situation. ‘You can’t … I shan’t let you.’

Ignoring her, Jane got out of the carriage. There were four men, two of them had pistols trained on the coachman and groom. The groom was holding his arm, blood seeping through his fingers, and his own pistol was lying on the ground, where he’d obviously thrown it after he was shot.

‘I am Mariah Fanshawe,’ Jane said. ‘What is the meaning of this outrage? How dare you attack my coach and wound my groom?’

Mariah had followed her from the carriage. She was clearly a little dazed from the accident and still held the kerchief to her temple.

‘She’s the one we want.’ One of the men holding a pistol trained on the coachman jerked his head at Jane. ‘Let the other one get back inside.’

‘I ain’t sure she’s the right one,’ another of the rogues said. ‘We’d best take them both to be certain. Blake will kick up if we get the wrong one.’

‘We are not going anywhere,’ Mariah put in, suddenly coming to life. ‘Besides, I am Lady Fanshawe and my friend is lying to protect me. I demand that you allow us to continue our journey.’

‘That settles it, we’ll take them both,’ the first rogue said and gestured at the groom and coachman. ‘Get down and we’ll take the carriage. Rab, you can drive. I’ll get inside with the women.’ He waved his pistol at them. ‘Any funny business and I’ll shoot yer.’

‘Let Jane go on and I’ll come with you,’ Mariah offered.

‘No, you can’t,’ Jane said and rushed to stand by her as the men hesitated, then one of them grabbed Mariah’s arm and thrust her into the carriage. Jane saw the groom and coachman were obeying the men with the pistols and one of them had climbed up to the driving box as Mariah’s servants got down. ‘I shan’t let you take her!’ Jane flew at the man who was trying to push Mariah into the carriage and pulled the mask from his face. ‘I’ve seen your face now. I shall know you again.’

‘Take her, too.’

A new voice had spoken. Jane glanced over her shoulder and looked into the strangest pair of eyes she had ever seen. A scarf covered the bottom of the man’s face, but his eyes were distinctive, being of odd colours.

‘I’ll know you, too,’ she declared, her anger making her throw all caution to the winds. ‘You had better let us …’

She got no further, for someone struck her on the back of the head and she made a little sighing noise as she fell into the arms of one of the men, who then thrust her into the carriage. She did not hear the gasp of distress from Mariah or see what happened next….

Jane’s eyelids flickered, but as the light touched her eyes she groaned. Becoming aware of pain at the back of her head, she reached towards the sore spot. She touched the bump gingerly and found a little crust of dried blood, though there was no deep wound. Something had hit her on the back of her head—but what?

Letting her eyes travel round the room, Jane knew that she had never seen it before in her life. This was not her room, but it did not look like an inn bedchamber. Her memory was fuzzy—where was she and how had she got here?

She closed her eyes for a moment as she puzzled over what had happened to her. Suddenly the details of the abduction flooded back.

Where was Mariah? Opening her eyes, Jane pushed herself up into a sitting position and looked about her. There was no sign of her friend and a shiver of dread ran through her.

She had evidently not been left in the same room as Jane. Was she somewhere in the house? Why had those villains been abducting her? It must surely be for her fortune. The rogues could not know that it was tied up in a fund and could only be released by her trustees. If they were expecting to be paid a ransom, they might be disappointed and what would happen then?

Jane was afraid for her friend. The kind of men who would hold up a coach, wound the groom and snatch two innocent women might be capable of anything. If their demands were refused, they might be violent towards their captives. Both she and Mariah might be in danger of their lives.

Glancing towards the window, she considered taking a look out when she heard voices outside the door of her room. Closing her eyes, she forced herself to lie still as the door was unlocked and someone came in. She made a little moaning sound as she sensed a presence near her and hoped that her captors would believe she was still unconscious.

‘Damn that man Blake,’ a man’s voice said close to her. The voice was harsh, rough in tone. ‘She is still unconscious. He must have hit her too hard. He is a thoughtless devil, for she may die—and then we’ll be hung for sure if they catch us.’

‘We should fetch a doctor,’ another voice added. This was a cultured voice, a gentleman’s voice, but not one she knew. ‘If she is ill, she may well die without attention. When I agreed to this business, I was told the other young woman was a willing participant in the plan. This girl should never have been abducted. What made him do it?’

‘Blake couldn’t afford to leave her behind. She might tell someone what she had seen—and he needs time with the other one.’

‘Where has he taken her?’ the second voice commanded.

‘No idea. Captain Blake is a close-mouthed devil. Never lets his right hand know what his left hand is doing.’

‘He is certainly a vicious brute.’

‘What are we supposed to do with this girl? Blake doesn’t want her. It would have been better to leave her on the road. The coachman would have taken care of her. I don’t want to hang for her murder.’

‘I have no intention of being hung for this affair. Blake struck this young woman. Until then I had no certainty of what was going on. I was hopeful that the Fanshawe girl truly wished to elope.’

‘That tale won’t help you if the Runners catch us. You’ll hang with the rest of us if this goes wrong. We dare not fetch a doctor. The girl will be all right here for the moment. Blake will decide what to do when he comes.’

The men were moving away, leaving the room. Jane heard the door close and the key turn in the lock. She opened her eyes and breathed a sigh of relief. They had gone. She was alone, but she didn’t intend to wait around for Blake to decide what to do with her. Jane didn’t like the sound of the man they called Blake at all. She thought he must be the man with the odd colour eyes, one brown and the other a greenish colour that some called hazel. She’d looked into them seconds before he’d struck her.

Cautiously leaving the bed, she walked softly to the window and glanced out. She was in what appeared to be a private house in the country. From what she could see the grounds looked a little neglected, as if there wasn’t quite enough money to keep them immaculate.

Now she knew why she was here. She had seen too much. Given the chance, Jane could have described the height, build and hair colouring of the men—and in particular the one with the peculiar eyes. Blake was obviously the ringleader. He’d kidnapped Mariah for her money—but what would he do to her when he realised that she had no power to release her fortune into his hands?

Jane hoped Mariah would somehow be able to fend the rogue off until help could be got for her.

If only Andrew had been with them! She was sure her brother would have done something to prevent the men snatching them both.

She must concentrate her thoughts. Somehow she had to get away from here and get help for her friend. Mariah was brave and resourceful. Had she been carrying her pistol she might have shot one of them—as she had the man who had been about to murder their good friend Lucinda, Duchess of Avonlea, earlier that year. Jane was a little comforted by the knowledge that Mariah would not be made a nervous wreck by the abduction. No, wherever Mariah was being held, she would hold her nerve and do her best to outwit her captor. Yet she could not hold out for ever against ruthless men.

Somehow Jane must get a message to Andrew—or, if he were still away on that mysterious mission with the army, to the Duke of Avonlea. He would surely try to help them if only because of the help he had received when his beloved wife was being blackmailed. To do that Jane must first escape her own captors.

She had a clear view of the gardens from her window. She noticed with some satisfaction that there was a large tree quite near her window. As she took stock, Jane saw a man riding away from the house and wondered where he was going. She drew back from the window, but he did not look in her direction.

Perhaps this was her chance to escape. Jane was about to attempt to open the window when she heard something. Realising that someone was coming back to her room, she made a dash for the bed, but it was too late.

She stood staring at the man who had entered and felt a trickle of ice from the nape of her neck down to the small of her back. He was carrying a tray with food and wine, which he set down on a small table near the bed. Jane decided he was not an ill-looking man. His features were regular and he had what she might have thought, in other circumstances, an attractive mouth. His hair was a rich brown, his eyes almost black with a hint of silver in the pupils. She was wary, but somehow not frightened.

‘I thought you were faking it earlier,’ he said and a rueful smile lingered on his mouth. ‘You needn’t be afraid I shall give you away. Nor shall I harm you. I am very sorry for the way you have been treated.’

It was the man with the cultured voice. He was wearing clothes that were not suited to his station—part of a disguise, she imagined. Yet she was certain that he was a gentleman. She relaxed and moved closer to him.

‘I heard you mention someone called Blake. Is he the man with the odd-coloured eyes?’

He frowned. ‘For your own sake, do not let anyone else hear you say that. It would be best not to let the others know that you heard us talking.’

‘Who are you?’ Jane asked. ‘Why were you abducting Mariah? Is she here, too?’

‘No, she was taken elsewhere. Do not ask more for I could not tell you. It is a complicated story and not one I am proud of. The pity is that you became involved. You should have stayed in the carriage rather than risking yourself,’ the man said. ‘I deeply regret that you were taken, Miss—?’

Jane’s thoughts moved swiftly. She thought he was telling the truth when he said Mariah was elsewhere. She must have been brought here because the abductors did not know what to do with her.

‘It is Jane—Jane Blair.’

Jane gave no sign of her inner trepidation as she offered her mother’s maiden name. For the moment she would keep her true identity a secret.

‘Well, Jane, I am sorry for helping those rogues with what has turned out to be a bad business. I am not sure what I can do for the moment. There are three others in the house besides myself and all are armed—but nothing more will happen to you if I can help it. You have my word that I shall protect you from Blake and his lackeys somehow.’

‘You said it would be best to fetch the doctor,’ Jane said. ‘Your friend said Blake would decide what to do—why do you serve him if he is such a monster? You appear to be a gentleman. Are you in trouble that you would stoop to such a wicked act?’

‘It isn’t what you think.’ A dark colour stained his neck. ‘These men are not my friends. Nor am I involved in this wretched affair for money—but I shan’t tell you why, so don’t ask.’

‘What is your name?’

He hesitated, then, ‘I’m called George by my friends.’

Jane was sure he was hiding something from her, but she should have expected it. He was hardly likely to tell her his life history under the circumstances.

‘Are you intending to let me go?’

‘I wish I could. Perhaps later.’ George, as he called himself, looked uncomfortable. ‘Most of the men have started to drink. Eat something and I’ll see what I can do once they are off guard. If I tried to take you out of here by force, you might be killed. I might manage two of them, but three is too many. This needs careful planning.’

Jane glanced at the food. She was hungry, but more than that she was thirsty. However, she had no intention of touching anything this man had given her. He might be trying to poison her.

‘There’s nothing wrong with it,’ he said. He took a piece of the bread, spread it with butter and ate it, then drank some wine. ‘You won’t die from eating this, Jane Blair.’

‘Thank you. I might eat some later.’ She moved towards him, making an appeal to his sense of fair play. ‘If this Mr Blake is what you seem to imply, he will kill me, won’t he? Do you want to hang for murder as well as abduction?’

‘I don’t want you to die.’ He couldn’t meet her eye. ‘If we’re caught, we’ll hang anyway. I was told the other girl was willing. It was supposed to be an elopement made to look like abduction because the girl’s guardian wouldn’t let her marry—but she was certainly not willing. I wasn’t sure what was going on until Blake told them to take you, too. Obviously, I’ve been tricked into this sorry business. I was a damned fool to go along with it, but there were too many of them for me to stop it happening.’

Jane seized her opportunity. ‘If you help me, we might be able to find her—and I wouldn’t tell anyone you helped abduct us. You could be a hero and no one need know the truth.’

‘You talk too much, Miss Blair,’ he said and turned towards the door. ‘Eat your food. If anyone else comes, pretend you don’t know anything. I’ll help you if I can. You have my word.’

‘The word of a kidnapper?’

‘Be careful, Miss Blair. I may be your only chance.’

His look was angry as he went out.

Jane sat on the edge of the bed as he locked the door again. Her legs felt like jelly and she was in sudden need of something to eat. After a few minutes to catch her breath, she took a piece of bread and spread it with butter, swallowing a few mouthfuls before washing it down with wine. The wine was a dark red and tasted dry on her tongue. She would have preferred water, but there was none in the room.

At least the food took away the shaky feeling she’d had in her legs. She wondered if he had told her the truth about there being three other men in the house. He called himself George. It wasn’t his real name, of course, but it was something to fix in her mind. She’d heard him speak to someone else he hadn’t named, and their leader was Blake.

Jane cautiously tried the window. It opened easily and she wondered why it hadn’t been locked. Did they imagine that she could not escape from here? Perhaps most young women would not dare, but Jane had climbed trees from early childhood. She glanced at the tree, which was sturdy and grew to the right side of the window. She could climb out onto the wide stone window ledge and edge her way along to the tree. It would be a risk because there was still a small gap between the ledge and the nearest branch, but she thought she could probably do it if she tried.

Seeing two men riding towards the house, Jane closed the window and drew back, keeping watch from behind the curtain. The men dismounted and walked towards the main door, disappearing inside. Her head was throbbing, but she forced herself to think slowly and not panic. She could not dwell on how far up she was or how much her head hurt. Unless she took her chance now, she might die.

One of the riders was probably Blake. Had he come to tell them what to do with her? No doubt he would want her silenced for good. There was no time to lose. She must take her chance for escape now—or the ruthless Blake would almost certainly murder her and dispose of her body. The other men were wary of him. George had promised to help her, but she could not rely on his word. None of them would risk their own lives for hers.

Opening the window, Jane cautiously climbed out on to the ledge. At least it was in reasonable repair and felt solid beneath her feet. Her back pressed against the glass, she edged her way along the stone sill and then realised that she was too far from the branch to reach out and grab it. The branch itself was thick and substantial enough to take her weight, but there was a gap of perhaps two feet beyond what she could reach.

Jane’s heart was racing and her palms were damp. She knew that she would have to jump and grab at the branch. If she missed, she might fall to the ground and break her neck, but if she stayed here the infamous Blake would undoubtedly break it for her.

Taking a deep breath and looking at the branch rather than the ground, Jane jumped and grabbed. Her hands touched, but could not hold the branch she was aiming for and she felt herself slithering and falling—but she was falling into the tree. Sharp bits of twig scratched her cheek and her bare arms as she crashed downwards and then, suddenly, she stopped. Her skirt had caught on a broken branch, breaking her fall a short distance from the ground.

Jane caught hold of a stout branch and clung to it as she recovered her breath and tried to stop shaking. She had come close to death and the shock was making her feel sick and weak, but her head was telling her she couldn’t stay where she was for long. After a few seconds, she was able to think clearly again. She tugged at her gown, which held stubbornly to the branch for a few seconds before ripping and setting her free. Steadying herself with deep breaths, she clambered down and then fell the last few feet to her knees.

Jane’s hands were stinging and so were her arms and legs. She glanced down and saw blood on her leg where the silk had torn away. Her right palm was bleeding and her cheek was stinging like mad, but these were not the worst of her injuries. As she stood up the pain in her right ankle shot through her and she gasped. Had she broken it? She tried to put weight on her right foot and found she could stand, though the pain was too bad for her to do more than limp.

She had to walk or hop as far as the woods that bordered the gardens. If the men looked for her and saw her here, they would recapture her easily. There was no choice but to hide somewhere until her ankle became a little easier. Let it be a sprain and not broken!

It was all she could do not to cry out each time she put her right foot to the floor, but she gritted her teeth and did a sort of hobble skip. Every movement hurt and she was afraid that someone would look out and see her before she reached the safety of the wood.

Fortune was with her. Battered, bruised but triumphant, Jane reached the trees and disappeared into them. She tasted the salt of tears on her mouth, but they were tears of relief and she brushed them away. It was impossible to move quickly and she knew she wasn’t safe yet. The men were sure to come here as soon as they discovered she was missing.

Jane had to keep moving, but the pain in her ankle was getting worse and she wasn’t sure how much farther she could go. She had almost reached the limit of her endurance when she saw the hut just ahead of her and hobbled towards it. The door opened easily and she went inside. She could make out a pile of old sacks in the darkness and sank down onto them.

She couldn’t go any farther until she had rested her ankle. All she could do now was pray that the men would not find her.

Jane couldn’t be sure how much time had passed when she heard the sounds of shouting. Her stomach clenched; the voices were very near and she knew the men must be searching the wood for her. For a moment panic swept through her. She ought to have kept on walking, got as far away as possible. Perhaps she might have found help, but her ankle was still throbbing.

When the door of the shed started to open, Jane’s heart jerked with fright. If Blake had found her, he might kill her.

Her breath caught as she saw George enter. He pushed the door almost closed behind him, putting a finger to his lips.

‘Keep quiet. There’s nothing I can do for the moment, but I’ll come back later and help you. Wait for me.’

Jane opened her mouth to protest, but at a warning frown from him said nothing. Her chest felt tight and she could scarcely breathe as he went out again.

‘Anything in there?’

The voice was so close. Harsh and angry, she was sure it must be Blake and her heart hammered in her breast. If he came in and found her … but she could hear George answering him.

‘Just some old sacks. I told you she would be long gone by now. Why would she hang around here?’

‘The lot of you are damned fools. Why didn’t you tie her up or at least make sure she was in a room she couldn’t get out of?’

‘She must have climbed into the tree,’ a third voice said on a whining note. ‘You’ve got to admire a girl like that, Captain. It took a lot of pluck. Besides, what harm can she do? She doesn’t know who we are or what is going on.’

‘She hadn’t better or I shall know who to blame,’ the harsh voice muttered. ‘I suppose she’s gone now and there’s not much we can do about it. She saw my eyes, but if she doesn’t know my name it is a chance in a million that she can identify me.’

‘How could she know who you are?’ George said. ‘We should go back to the house. I have things to do. I only agreed to help with this because I thought the Fanshawe girl willing, Blake. Though it leaves a bad taste in my mouth, I’ve fulfilled my part of the deal. I want what you owe me and an end to this whole rotten business.’

‘You’ll get what I promised when I’m good and ready—which will be when I get what I want.’

‘That isn’t what we agreed …’

Jane heard the angry note in George’s voice as the men moved away. He had told her his motive was not money, so what did Blake have that was so important to George that he would help abduct an innocent young woman to get his hands on it?

He had told her to trust him, but what kind of a man was he?

Shivering, Jane hugged herself and wondered if she should try to get away on her own once the men had gone. She wasn’t sure she would be wise to trust George—yet he had discovered her hiding place and kept it secret.

Jane walked to the door of the shed and stopped. If anything, her ankle felt worse than just after she had sprained it. It seemed as if she didn’t really have a choice. She would just have to wait and hope that George kept his word.

Night had fallen and Jane was beginning to turn cold when she heard something outside the hut. Then the door opened and a dark shadow entered. Her heart caught as she held her breath and waited for him to speak.

‘Are you there, Jane Blair?’

‘George?’ Her breath expelled in relief as she hobbled towards him. ‘I was beginning to think you had forgotten me.’

‘It took a while to get rid of the others and circle back,’ George said. ‘I didn’t want to arouse their suspicions. Blake is a nasty devil when his temper is up. I shouldn’t be surprised if what they say of him is true.’

‘What do they say?’

‘That he … well, he is supposed to have been thrown out of the army for causing the death of ten French prisoners during the campaign on the Spanish Peninsula in a particularly nasty manner. He is a bully and a cheat, I know that much, but I’ve never been certain of the rest.’

‘What does he owe you? What hold has he over you?’

Jane looked up at him. They had moved outside the hut and the moon had just sailed out from behind the clouds. For a moment she glimpsed an odd expression in his eyes, but in another moment it had gone.

‘It isn’t my secret. I can’t tell you,’ he said. ‘I know it must be hard for you to trust me after what has happened, but, believe me, this is the first thing I’ve ever done that I feel truly ashamed of—and I had a compelling reason. I just cannot tell you what it is.’

Jane gazed at him for a little longer, then inclined her head. ‘Perhaps I am foolish, but I do trust you, George. I trust you—and I am grateful for your help. I hurt my ankle when I fell through the tree and I can hardly walk.’

‘I knew it must be something of the sort when I found you here.’ A smile flickered at the corners of his mouth. ‘You must have jumped from the ledge to the tree. It takes courage to do something like that.’

‘My brother would say it was reckless and foolish—but I thought my life might be in danger.’

‘It might have been, had Blake found you himself. He was furious that we let you escape. For a few minutes I thought he would shoot us all, but it seems he may still have a use for us.’

‘Would you go to the law if you were not in such an awkward position?’

‘I could be hung for my part in the affair,’ George said. ‘Yet if I could be sure … What happened has left a sour taste in my mouth. I wish with all my heart I could go back to the start, but it is too late for regret. I am in this up to my neck. The only thing I can do is to help you get away.’

‘I cannot walk far.’

‘Lean on me—or shall I carry you? My horse is not far away. It will support us both until we can find somewhere to stop and rest while I take a look at your ankle.’

‘If you could find a horse I could borrow, I could go home. I have no money with me, but I will repay whatever you spend on my behalf.’

‘The hire of a horse would be little enough,’ George said. ‘I’m not sure it will be safe for you to go home just yet, Miss Blair—especially alone. Blake means to search for you.’

‘He cannot know who I am or where I live?’

‘I dare say your family will be looking for you—making enquiries, perhaps even offering a reward.’ George heard her indrawn breath and nodded. ‘It will not take Blake long to discover who you really are—and if you are sitting at home he may take things into his own hands. Once he has what he wants and takes himself off abroad, you should be safe enough, but until then …’

‘Until then my life is at risk? And my friend’s?’

‘I fear it may be so.’

‘What shall I do?’

‘I’m not sure. I’ve been thinking what to do for the best. It may be expedient to stay hidden for a while.’

‘What about you? Are you afraid that I shall betray you to the authorities?’

Jane winced as she took a step forwards. George hesitated, then swept her up in his arms, carrying her to where his horse was tethered. He thrust her up into the saddle, then mounted behind her.

‘Press back against me and hang on to the saddle. I’m going to ride hard for a bit. Blake might get suspicious and come looking for us. If he finds us, it will not be just you he murders.’

Jane was silent as she obeyed, holding on tight as he put his horse to a canter, then urged the animal on faster as it gathered speed. George had not answered her question.

It was obviously her duty to tell someone all she knew as swiftly as she was able. Mariah was in terrible danger, because Jane was certain that Blake was a ruthless man. If he discovered that Mariah’s fortune was tied up in trust and could not be released, he might decide it was best to kill her.

She had to escape and get help for Mariah! Now that she was with George her own fears had become less acute and it was her friend’s safety that worried her.

Riding through the darkness, her body pressed close to that of the man who had rescued her and now held her in his arms, Jane thought hard.

Could she escape George—or would it be best to befriend him and ask for his help in tracing Mariah?

‘Thank God you are back!’ Justin, Duke of Avonlea, exclaimed as he was admitted to Andrew Lanchester’s parlour and found him still dressed in his travelling cape, his boots spattered with mud. ‘I thought you might still be in Paris.’

‘I have just this moment arrived,’ Andrew said and frowned. ‘Something is wrong—Lucinda has not disappeared again?’

‘My wife is at home and in good health,’ Avonlea said, a smile on his lips. Then the smile disappeared as he recalled his news. ‘I am very sorry, Lanchester, but the news I bring must distress you. Your sister and Mariah Fanshawe were abducted this morning on the road to London …’

‘Mariah—Jane! Good grief.’ Andrew looked thunderstruck. ‘Why? Where were they going?’

‘Mariah received an invitation from Sir Matthew Horne and his wife—she is the late Fanshawe’s sister, of course. Mariah did not wish to go for some reason and would only consent to it if Jane accompanied her. The two have become such good friends of late.’

‘Damn!’ Andrew smote his forehead with his fist. ‘Did Mariah not tell you she was afraid of fortune hunters when she came to stay with you some months back, Avonlea?’

‘You think she may have been abducted by a scorned suitor?’

‘That is possible,’ Andrew replied and looked thoughtful. ‘Mariah is something of a flirt, I imagine. She might have led someone to believe she was interested and then changed her mind.’

‘Desperate men will do anything for money.’ Avonlea looked at him enquiringly. ‘Why should they take Jane, too?’

‘If they were together and the abductor believed Mariah to be travelling alone he might have acted on impulse. Jane can be very rash at times. She might have tried to obstruct them.’

‘You think she may have been taken because of what she saw?’

‘I fear that may be the case. She would not let her friend be taken without putting up a fight.’

‘Brave but foolish.’

‘I have told her to be careful a hundred times, but she puts her heart over her fences. Jane ought truly to have been my brother rather than my sister—and in part that is my fault. After our parents’ death I treated Jane as an equal. We were inseparable until I joined up, and since then she has looked after the estate for me. I fear she is too independent and perhaps reckless—but I would trust her judgement above any agent.’

‘You have only just arrived, so you will not know if a ransom note has been received,’ Avonlea said. ‘Mariah’s coachman came to me at once, but nothing has been delivered to me. Of course, the note might be addressed to the trustees of her fortune.’

‘You are not her trustee?’

‘No. I believe they are Fanshawe’s sister—and a lawyer. No doubt they will be approached for the ransom if a demand is made.’

‘It must have been Mariah they were after. I know nothing of her fortune, but I imagine Fanshawe was a warm man. Jane has only a few thousand. I would pay for her return, of course—but I doubt she was the intended victim.’

‘What will you do?’

‘I must visit Mariah’s trustees and discover if they have been approached—and I shall instruct an agent to discover what they can. What will you do?’

‘A Bow Street man? Good idea,’ Avonlea agreed. ‘In your situation I think it the best solution. I think you should leave Mariah’s trustees to me, Andrew. Instruct your agent by all means. I will talk to Sir Matthew and see what I can discover—then I’ll report to you.’

‘Yes, I dare say you are anxious for Mariah’s sake. She is like a sister to you, I believe?’

‘She was my father’s ward until he died, and of course Lucinda has become very fond of her,’ Justin said. ‘I know Mariah intended to ask my advice about some fortune hunter, but perhaps because of various problems it never happened. I feel responsible and must certainly do what I can to help recover her.’

‘Then we shall work together.’

‘Of course. You know I was grateful for your help with my problems.’ Avonlea smiled. ‘We may not always have seen eye to eye over the methods you employed, Andrew—but we are friends, and in this we are united.’

‘Yes. Good grief, I need all the help I can get,’ Andrew said and frowned. ‘I suppose the ladies’ abduction is for a ransom? Only I’ve been involved in a bit of business—secret stuff for the regiment that I cannot reveal even to you—but it might have a bearing.’

‘Well, you know your own business best—but I shall do what I can to recover them both.’

‘I pray to God that they are both still alive.’

‘Yes.’ Justin looked grim. ‘I can imagine how you feel. I suffered enough when my wife disappeared—but she was found unharmed and I believe we shall come through this in good order, Andrew.’

‘I can only pray that your instincts are correct.’

Chapter Two

They seemed to have been riding for hours. Jane was beginning to think she was in some kind of mad dream that would never end when George at last brought his horse to a standstill and helped her to dismount.

‘Where are we?’ she asked, glancing towards the house, which looked silent and dark in the gloom of night. ‘Who lives here?’

‘No one at present,’ George replied. ‘It belonged to a relative of mine and has recently been left to me in a will. I have been meaning to visit and have it set in order.’

‘Are there any servants?’ she enquired in a dubious tone that made her companion look at her.

‘No, I fear not,’ George answered. ‘I know it is asking a great deal—but you have to trust me, Jane.’

‘You do realise that if I stay in an empty house with you for even an hour or so my reputation could be ruined?’

‘Yes, I know that it is a risk, but I really think we both need some rest. I have food. I dare say I can get a fire going and we shall find somewhere to curl up and sleep. I promise you are quite safe with me, Miss Blair—and no one need know the details. In the morning I shall take you somewhere more suitable—at least, to a place where you can be chaperoned.’

‘I really have no choice,’ Jane admitted ruefully. When she reflected on her capture, she realised that she had been compromised from the beginning. While most would sympathise, others would think her at fault for her reckless behaviour. ‘My ankle is throbbing and I shall fall asleep in the saddle if we go any farther tonight.’

‘Exactly.’ George smiled at her in a way that calmed her fears. ‘Truly, I mean you no harm, Miss Blair—and I shall endeavour to get us both out of this mess.’

‘I prefer it when you call me Jane,’ she said.

‘Our situation makes formality ridiculous. I have no choice but to call you by your name or sir. In the circumstances I think we should forget convention. Since we are forced into each other’s company, I suppose we must make the best of things.’

‘How sensible you are. I have seldom met a lady with your strength of character, Jane. Most of the ladies I know would have screamed or fainted given the situation you found yourself in.’

‘You need not tell me that I am too independent for modesty’s sake. It has been said before and not so politely.’ Jane laughed softly. ‘Had I been so faint-hearted I might never have been abducted. I dare say my brother will scold me for being reckless and thoughtless—and I believe I may owe you my life. The loss of my reputation can be nothing compared to what might have been.’

He inclined his head to her, applauding her courage. ‘Just so—now we should turn our minds to gaining entrance. I think I may have to break a window and climb through. You must wait here. I shall open a door and save you the indignity of clambering over the sill.’

Jane studied the small leaded windows. ‘Are there no French windows? I fear these windows would scarcely open wide enough for a man of your size.’

‘Yes, there is such a window at the rear. That is an excellent notion, Jane. Much better than a window, through which I might find it difficult to fit.’

‘I do not think you would make a competent burglar,’ Jane said, her humour asserting itself as she followed him to the rear of the house. There was no use in repining or complaining. They found the glass doors, which led out to the pretty and secluded garden. George stood looking at it for a moment, seemingly in deep thought. ‘What will you use to break the window? Or had you not thought so far?’

‘There you wrong me. I was merely remembering some good times I had here as a boy. It seems sacrilege to disturb the place, but it must be done.’ George took a pistol from his coat pocket, and turning the handle against the glass, gave it a sharp rap. It shattered at once. He pushed the jagged glass in and put his hand through the opening. Finding the catch which secured it, he was able to open the door.

‘I shall go first and light a candle,’ George said. ‘Be careful for there is broken glass. I do not wish you to stumble in the dark and hurt yourself.’

Jane hesitated just inside the door, allowing him time to explore. A few seconds passed and she heard him strike a tinder and then light flared in the darkness. He lit a branch of wax candles, the yellow glow illuminating the pretty if neglected parlour in which she now stood. She looked about her with interest, noting the delicate furniture, workbasket, spinet and the French cabinets filled with porcelain figurines.

‘This parlour must have belonged to a lady.’

‘Yes, it did—an elderly lady. She was my great-aunt and more than ninety years of age when she died.’

‘I hope she would not mind us breaking in?’

‘I should imagine she might find it exciting. I believe she was rather a dashing lady in her youth. She took a shine to me because I was considered a bruising rider to hounds as a youngster—and she was fond of hunting herself.’

‘A lady after my own heart, though it is the thrill of the chase I love. I usually leave the field before the kill.’

‘Aunt Augusta would not have approved of that,’ he said and smiled. ‘However, I seldom hunt these days. I saw enough death and killing in the army. I have no desire for more.’

‘Yet you joined forces with a dangerous man to help abduct an innocent young woman.’ Her tone was accusing and made him look at her.

‘I have no excuse I may give other than that I have already offered. I believed I was helping to provide the illusion of an abduction. Until she struggled so desperately I hoped the lady was willing, as I had been led to believe.’

‘Yes, so you told me.’ Jane frowned as he led the way from the small parlour into another larger one, then into a hall, through several more reception rooms and finally a large kitchen at the rear. It was still painful for her to walk, though a little easier than it had been when he found her in the hut. ‘I find it hard to believe that you were duped, sir. I would not take you for a fool.’

‘I had my reasons.’

Jane glanced at the grim set of his mouth and said no more on the subject. It would not do to antagonise him at this point. She must never forget that Mariah was in danger and this man was perhaps her only chance of finding her friend.

‘I think the fireplace in the larger parlour was set with wood and paper,’ she said. ‘It would be more relaxing than the kitchen for there are some comfortable chairs.’

‘I thought we might find some wine here …’ George disappeared into what looked like a storeroom. Jane heard him rummaging around for a moment or two. He emerged triumphant with a bottle of red wine. ‘There are several bottles here, though most must be in the cellar, but I have no intention of going there at this hour.’

Jane found another branch of candles and lit them from his. Her ankle was throbbing and she sat down at the table, trying not to show how weary she felt.

‘Shall we explore further or settle on the parlour?’

‘I think the beds must need airing. It is more than a year since the house was closed. My lawyers thought it best while I was in the army. I believe a caretaker comes in now and then, but I doubt the bedding is fit to use.’

‘We shall do better in a comfortable chair,’ Jane said. ‘If you are agreeable, I shall light the fire in the parlour.’

‘I shall do that for you. We should eat and then I will look at your ankle. I think cold water and a bandage—which should be in the dresser if all is as it was.’ He went to the dresser and took out a tin, opening it to extract a roll of linen. ‘My aunt was always prepared. I think I must fetch water from the well.’

‘I will wait for you in the parlour.’

‘Forgive me, your ankle still pains you. Go and sit down. I will bring food and the bandage in a moment or two.’

Jane took the candles she had lit and retraced her steps to the large parlour. She lit several more and then touched a flame to the fire. It flared almost at once, which meant the wood and paper had kept dry despite the house being closed for so long. The house was clearly not damp and must be well built.

Her situation was improved despite the impropriety of it all. George seemed to mean her no harm and for the moment she must trust him, though it irked her to be at the mercy of a rogue. She was used to being independent and using her own judgement, and this need of a stranger’s help was both uncomfortable and annoying.

Seeing the elegant day bed, Jane settled back on the cushions and rested her foot in front of her. With the candles and the fire, which was now burning strongly, it was pleasant and comfortable. She put her head back and closed her eyes, quickly falling asleep.

Returning to the parlour some minutes later, George stood looking at Jane, feeling disinclined to disturb her. Yet the bread and cheese he had brought with him was on the plates he had found in the kitchen, the wine poured into glasses—and her ankle would do better if he bound it.

‘Forgive me, Miss … Jane,’ he said and touched her shoulder.

Jane woke with a little start, giving a cry of alarm. Then, seeing him standing there, a tray of food placed carefully on the occasional table by her side, and the linen bandaging in his hand, she smiled. The smile came from within and lit up her eyes. She had such calm grey eyes and her dark, almost ebony hair had fallen into tangles where it had escaped from the knot at the nape of her neck. She was not beautiful in a conventional sense, but had a face filled with character and warmth.

‘It is you,’ she said. ‘For a moment I Thought … How thoughtless of me to fall asleep. You must be wanting your supper.’

George’s heart caught when she smiled. She was an attractive girl, but he had not thought her more until that moment. He wondered that she wore such dull colours and scraped her hair back in an unflattering style when she could make so much more of herself if she chose.

‘I was thinking of you, Jane. Your ankle needs a cold compress and ought to be bound tightly to take down the swelling.’

‘Yes, I am sure that would help. I feared it might be broken, but the pain has eased a little, which means, I think, that it is merely a sprain.’

He knelt on the floor beside her and ran gentle, sensitive fingers over her ankle, then inclined his head.

‘I believe it is as you say, Jane. Nevertheless, it will help to have a cold compress and bandaging for a while. We shall not stay here long tomorrow, so it will be better for you if your ankle is easier.’

George worked steadily, applying the cold pack he had prepared with water drawn from the deep well. He bound her ankle tightly, knowing that it would strengthen it for her, making it easier to walk. She drew a sharp breath once and he apologised for hurting her, but she shook her head. He finished his work as quickly as possible.

‘If you are still in pain, I will bind the ankle again in the morning,’ he said. ‘Can you eat something? The wine is soft and fruity, not too strong—will you try a little before I leave you to sleep?’

‘Where will you go? The room is warm now and you could stretch out in two chairs.’

‘Are you sure you wish for that? I thought you might prefer to be alone?’

‘We broke in here and the door is vulnerable. If Blake were to discover this house I would rather not face him alone.’

‘I doubt he would think of coming here.’ George frowned. ‘Though it is possible that he might know it was left to me, I suppose. Someone may have told him.’

‘Then please remain here. I prefer your presence to Captain Blake’s.’

‘Yes, I think I shall. You may rest assured that if he attacked you I should shoot him.’

‘Is that why you have brought the pistol?’

‘Like most military men I am accustomed to travelling with a loaded pistol. I know others do it, too, but I am a keen shot. Believe me—my hand would not tremble if the need arose.’

‘You fought with Wellington?’

‘Yes, for many years—on the Spanish Peninsula and elsewhere.’

‘I see.’ Jane looked at him thoughtfully. ‘I believe I shall sleep more easily for knowing that, sir.’

‘You have my word that I shall protect you with my life. More than that I cannot promise. Blake is a ruthless devil and has several rogues working for him that think nothing of murder. Had I not known that he might kill us all, I should have prevented the abduction as soon as I realised that he had lied about the lady’s willingness to be taken.’

‘Even though he has something important that belongs to you?’

‘Yes, of course.’ George inclined his head. ‘Had it been within my power. As it was not, I decided to do what I could for you.’

‘What of the other victim in this affair? Lady Fanshawe is a dear friend of mine and I fear for her safety. Can you not help her?’

‘For the moment I can do nothing, but I shall try to discover her whereabouts. For that reason I have allowed Blake to go on thinking he has my reluctant loyalty.’

‘Every moment we delay, her situation becomes more desperate.’

‘You should not fear that her life is in immediate danger. Blake wants her alive until he has her fortune safe in his hands. If she died before he persuades her to wed him, he would lose what he truly wants—though he swears he cares for her and she for him. Were I not sure that he means her no harm for the moment, I should have gone to the authorities immediately. I am in part to blame for her predicament and shall do what I can to help her.’

‘Do you believe Blake when he says he cares for her?’

‘Not any longer. Yet I think she is safe enough for the time being—at least, her life is not at risk. More than that is not within my power to judge.’

‘He may allow her to live, but she may lose everything else,’ Jane reminded him. ‘Abduction and the forceful seduction of an innocent lady is a wicked crime. Rogues who participate in such crimes deserve to hang.’

A little nerve flicked at George’s temple. Yet his expression was strictly controlled, giving no hint of his state of mind.

‘I cannot deny it. Nor do I deny that I played a part in this heinous affair. I wish it were otherwise—though had I not agreed to help him, he would have employed some other rogue. I should not then have been in a position to help you—or her.’

Jane silently acknowledged the truth of his words as she ate her food and swallowed a few mouthfuls of wine. She undoubtedly owed the fact that she was still alive to him, for had he not found her in the hut and then denied it to his companions, Blake might have come himself. She might already be lying dead somewhere. Putting the wineglass down still half-full, she sighed and leaned back to rest her head on the comfortable cushions. She was inclined to believe George when he said he regretted taking part in the abduction of Mariah Fanshawe, but that did not excuse his conduct. Whatever the hold Blake had over him, he should not have sunk to that vile creature’s level.

Within a few minutes of finishing her wine, Jane had once again fallen asleep. Watching her, George felt oddly protective. He bent to place another log on the fire. It was most unlikely that Blake would come here, but he would wedge something heavy against the French windows they had broken to enter. He would try not to sleep, though he knew he was tired and might not be able to keep guard throughout the night despite his best intentions.

George was thoughtful as he went off to make sure that the house was as secure as he could make it. Jane Blair—if that was her true name—was a remarkable young woman. He thought that if he had met her in other circumstances he might not have noticed her, for he was more usually attracted to ladies with pale hair and blue eyes. There had once been a lady with beautiful azure eyes who had stolen, then broken his heart. It was because of Marianne that he had run off and joined the army, wanting release from the pain she had caused. However, he had quickly forgotten her in the heat of battle, the sight of fallen comrades driving what he now realised was a mere fancy from his mind.

George was not now the same feckless daredevil he had been in his youth. Had Marianne accepted his proposal he would probably have broken her heart a dozen times. He had not been ready for marriage and Marianne in her wisdom had known it. Now, having seen too much fighting and too much pain, he had returned to England to settle down, perhaps here at the estate that his great-aunt had left him. His own father had had no other son and George had inherited the greater part of his estate, which was not large, and part of which had gone to the sister he adored. He was not the richest man in England, but his great-aunt’s estate had given him the money he needed to retire from the army and build a new life in England. Having a true interest in wine, he was contemplating setting up a business to import fine vintages from Spain and Portugal.

Thinking of his sister, George’s brow furrowed. It was because of Verity that he was in this predicament, hiding from a man George despised and disliked. Blake had some letters and personal effects that belonged to Verity and she had begged George to recover them for her.

Blake was still withholding Verity’s property, refusing to give George what he had promised. He was not sure what he could do about his sister’s problem. Unless he took desperate measures and broke into the rogue’s house.

It was perhaps what he should have done at the beginning, George acknowledged to himself. The one thing he ought not to have done was to let Blake blackmail him into helping with his evil plans. He was not even sure why Blake had wanted him involved—unless he’d thought to gain a hold over George, too, which in part he had for he was now guilty of a heinous crime. Yet had he not agreed, Jane might even now be dead—and the abduction would have gone ahead anyway. At least now there was a chance that he could help one, or perhaps both, of the ladies.

He was determined that nothing should happen to Jane Blair. Her bravery in escaping and the way she faced having to stay with a man she did not know in an empty house made him admire her. Verity would have been in hysterics by now. Jane was an exceptional young woman and he would protect her with his life.

Jane was woken by the smell of coffee and bacon frying. She blinked hard, easing her stiff shoulders as she looked for the source of the delicious aroma. Seeing the tray of hot food on the table beside her, she glanced up at the man who had provided the feast.

‘How did you find these?’ she asked as he poured the steaming liquid into two delicate porcelain cups. ‘Bacon, eggs, fresh bread—and coffee?’

‘The caretaker, Mrs Muffet, saw candles here last evening. She came to investigate at first light. I explained that I had come down from London to look at the house and she insisted on fetching food from her cottage and cooking it for us.’

‘You told her I was here? What does she know?’

‘I told her I had a friend with me. She did not come in here and does not know that my friend is a lady. I allowed her to think you were a gentleman.’

‘Thank you.’ Jane accepted the coffee from his hand. ‘It was very good of Mrs Muffet to provide these things for us.’

‘She intends to return later today and make the house habitable. I have asked that fires should be lit in all the rooms and the linen aired.’

‘You are not intending to stay here? Impossible!’ Jane took a sip of the hot strong beverage to calm her nerves. ‘At least, I cannot stay here. Perhaps you would lend me your horse and allow me to go on alone? I will engage to return it here once I am home.’

‘I dare not let you leave alone. You would be prey to all manner of evils, a young woman travelling alone with not even a groom to protect her.’

‘I believe I am capable of riding a few miles to my home—if you would set me in the right direction.’ Jane’s head came up for she needed no one to protect her. ‘I am not one of your missish young ladies who faints at the merest provocation.’

‘I am perfectly certain you are not, Jane. I wish that I could deliver you to your home,’ George said, his brow furrowed. ‘I have been thinking and I believe I have come up with a solution, which you may find acceptable for a few days.’

Jane arched her brows at him. ‘Short of stealing your horse and riding off, I have little choice but to listen to your proposal, sir. My ankle is a little easier this morning, but I do not think I could walk far—and I have no money to hire a carriage.’

‘I am aware of my duty to care for you. Will you allow me to take you to the home of a lady I trust? She was my nurse when I was a boy and stayed with us until she retired when I joined the army. I think you should be safe with her until I can be certain Blake is out of the country—or in prison.’

‘In prison? Do you intend to go to the magistrate, then?’

George handed her a plate of crisp bacon and scrambled eggs, also a two-pronged fork. ‘You should eat some of this excellent food. Please, do not look at me so, Miss Blair. I know that I deserve your censure, but you do not understand my predicament.’

‘I realise that Captain Blake has some hold over you, but that does not excuse your behaviour. No decent man would assist in the abduction of an innocent young woman.’ Seeing the little nerve flicking at his temple, Jane relented. ‘Forgive me, I am not ungrateful for all you have done for me, sir. It is just that I am concerned for my friend.’

‘As I am,’ George replied. ‘You have no need to remind me of my responsibility. Firstly, I must see you safe, Miss Blair—and then I shall do what I can to find Lady Fanshawe.’

Jane was on thorns. Her independent nature made her wish to escape by whatever means she could. Yet she sensed that George meant to do what he could to help her—and if she ran away now she would have no clue to give her friends. If she could just discover something about Captain Blake, her friends might be able to find and rescue Mariah.

‘You give me your word that you will try to find her? And you will see that Blake pays for his wickedness?’

‘I promise that I shall do what I can, but I am not at liberty to go to the magistrates immediately.’

George reached across the table, laying his hand on hers. It was a simple gesture, but something in his manner made her decide that he was honest and meant to do what he could for both her and Mariah.

‘Then I shall seriously consider what you’ve said, sir.’

‘Good.’ His smile lit up his face and for a moment Jane’s heart caught. ‘You are a brave and sensible lady, Jane.’

Jane ate some of the bacon and egg, then finished her coffee. Her thoughts were confused, but she was trying to make sense of what she knew to be a precarious situation. If Captain Blake was as ruthless as she believed, she could hardly demand that this man risk his own life more than he already had for her sake.

‘I know that you have risked your life for mine, sir—and I believe you are doing what you think best, but I am anxious for Mariah.’

‘I understand your anxiety, but first I must make certain that you are safe—after that I shall do what I can to help your friend.’

‘I have no wish to be that evil rogue’s next victim,’ Jane replied. ‘However, I am concerned that Blake will harm Mariah. If that happened, I should not be able to live with my conscience—as you ought not.’

‘You must trust me,’ George said. ‘Your friend may be confined anywhere. Even if we managed to have Blake arrested and called out the militia to search for her, we might not find her. If she is bound or securely confined in a secluded house, she might die alone and in terrible distress. On the other hand, Blake’s interest is in keeping her alive and well until she consents to wed him.’

Jane looked at him in horror. ‘You think Blake would refuse to reveal her whereabouts if he were arrested?’

‘Why should he confess when it would hang him? At the moment it is my word against his.

Even with you as a witness it is not certain that we should be believed—and I should be reluctant to involve you for it would inevitably result in a loss of reputation for you. If Blake were to remain at liberty, my life would be at risk.’

‘And mine. I saw his eyes and he knows it.’

‘Exactly. Which is another reason why it is best if you remain hidden. Your testimony may be required to convict him since mine may not be believed, though I shall keep you out of it if I can. However, he has only to murder us both and there would be none left who dare speak against him.’

‘Yes, I see that,’ Jane agreed reluctantly. ‘So what must we do?’

‘If you will consent to remain hidden, I shall do my utmost to discover Lady Fanshawe’s whereabouts and to rescue her.’

‘Do you give me your word?’

‘You have my word, but I must be allowed to do things my way. Lady Fanshawe’s life is not the only one at risk here. If she is forced into marriage against her will, an annulment might be arranged.’

‘She would be ruined in the eyes of society.’

‘Lady Fanshawe is a victim and most will have sympathy for her. Another person’s happiness is at stake here and I have a duty to that person. I see you condemn me—but I am caught between duty and loyalty.’

Jane saw that he was deeply affected. It was a terrible coil and she found herself unable to condemn him as certainly as she had. He had become embroiled in an unpleasant affair for reasons he was not prepared to divulge. While she condemned the wicked abduction of an innocent young woman, she had begun to realise that George’s motives were compelling. He had acted out of a misguided attempt to help someone he was protecting.

‘So Blake is blackmailing you?’

‘Not me—but there is blackmail involved.’

‘Yes, I understand.’ Jane nodded. ‘I see how you were tricked into helping that rogue, but now you must do all you can to make this right.

I will stay with your nurse for a day or so, but it cannot be longer. My brother will be anxious.’

‘Perhaps I could send a letter for you—if you will give me your name? Your true name, for I do not believe you are called Jane Blair.’

‘I shall think about it,’ Jane replied. ‘If you will allow me some privacy, I shall make myself ready and then perhaps we should leave. For the moment I am content to do as you ask.’

‘Thank you.’ George hesitated, then leaned forwards to kiss her cheek. Jane moved her head inadvertently and his mouth brushed hers in the lightest of kisses. ‘Thank you for believing in me, Jane. I’ve never met such a brave and decisive lady before. Most ladies of my acquaintance would have been in floods of tears long before this.’

Jane blushed, her heart racing. How ridiculous! He’d meant only to kiss her cheek as a thank-you, but the feel of his lips on hers had sent a tingle racing through her, which was ridiculous because she had long ago given up all thought of love and marriage.

She was not the sort of woman men admired or wanted as their wives; her independence and habit of speaking her mind actually repulsed men who might otherwise have thought her a suitable match. Although not without fortune, she was plain and too outspoken to please generally.

‘Nonsense,’ she said and turned away, a flush in her cheeks. ‘Crying would change nothing. We must think of Mariah and do what is best for her.’

‘You have discovered a clue?’ Justin asked. He glanced at Andrew. ‘Pray do not keep me in suspense. Does this concern Mariah or your sister?’

‘I made some enquiries myself and discovered that the carriage used for the abduction of Mariah and Jane turned off before reaching the toll. I therefore rode across country and was able to discover that a few miles from Avonlea an unconscious lady was seen being transferred from one carriage to another. I have been told that both carriages then set off in different directions.’

‘I am not sure what this means.’

‘We believe that Mariah was indeed the intended victim.’ Justin nodded. ‘It seems to me that Mariah was taken off by one of them and several men remained with the first carriage in which Jane was taken somewhere else.’

‘Yes, that would appear to be the logical explanation. So your search has been split—a clever ruse to confuse the situation, perhaps?’

‘After employing the agent I told you of, I made a further search myself and was able to trace Mariah’s carriage to its final destination.

Indeed, I discovered it still at the property, where it had been abandoned.’

‘You have discovered one of the ladies?’

‘Unfortunately not,’ Andrew replied. ‘The house was deserted, but there were signs of it having been used recently. By the look of it no one had been there for years until one of the captives was taken there. It was because it had fallen into disuse that I was guided there by a curious bystander. He had worked up at the hall, as he called it, and knew that the old man had died. The owner had no immediate family and died intestate, which meant the land and property had been neglected while lawyers attempted to find the rightful beneficiaries.’

‘It will, of course, go to the Crown if none are found, but left to decay it will fetch little enough. What made your informant so curious?’

‘The carriage swept past him and frightened a flock of sheep he was driving into new pasture. One of them injured itself and he was angry so he went up to the house to remonstrate and saw a woman being carried into the house. He thought she was unconscious, but, apart from telling his wife, he did nothing more until he heard that I was making enquiries at the local inn. I paid him a guinea, which was recompense for the animal’s injuries and he described the carriage and one of the men he saw.’

‘But when you went to the house it was empty?’

‘I found a back door open and went in. I searched every room. One bedroom had been occupied. The bed looked as if someone had lain on it and there was a tray of food and wine. The window was unlatched. There were signs of people having been elsewhere in the house—but nothing to tell me who might have been there.’ Andrew paused and his mouth thinned. ‘However, in the bedroom, I found a reticule that belongs to my sister. She must have had it with her when they took her to the house and left it there on the floor by the bed.’

‘Then you can be certain she was in the house,’ Avonlea said. ‘Did you find blood or the signs of a struggle?’

‘No, thank God!’ Andrew rubbed at the side of his nose. ‘I saw some branches that had broken recently in a tree near the open window. I believe—I have hope that—Jane may have got out of that window and scrambled down through the tree.’

Justin stared at him in disbelief. ‘Is it possible? Would she have tried to escape that way?’

‘Yes, I am sure she would if she had the chance.’ Andrew frowned. ‘I spent some time looking in the wood near the house. I found some deep tracks—as if a horse might be carrying two people.’

‘Did they recapture her?’

‘That, too, is possible. I know that Jane would do her best to get word to me if she could.’

‘Were you not engaged on some business or other for the regiment?’

‘That business is on hold,’ Andrew said. ‘If Jane and Mariah are not found, I must leave the matter to another, because I shall not rest until I know they are safe. Just as you cannot rest until Mariah is found.’

Avonlea nodded. ‘My wife is concerned for Mariah, as I am. You have not received a ransom note?’

‘No. I am certain the rogue means to compromise Mariah, perhaps even force her into marriage for the sake of her fortune.’

‘Yet her trustees have heard nothing. I told them what had happened and they were greatly distressed. They begged me to find Mariah and see her safely wed to a decent man—and I have promised to do all I can, but Mariah has a mind of her own. Apparently, they have the power to veto a marriage if they think it unsuitable, but I was assured that if I approved the match they would not object.’

‘You do not think she agreed to this abduction to force her trustees to release her money?’

‘Mariah is inclined to be reckless, but she would not endanger a friend. Had this been a sham abduction, Mariah would simply have disappeared and a note been immediately delivered. I think the rogue that has taken her means to hold out for marriage to ensure he has the whole of her fortune.’

‘What will her trustees do if he makes such a demand?’

‘I have been asked to manage the affair to prevent a scandal. If she is forced into anything, her abductor will very soon regret it.’

‘Be careful, Justin,’ Andrew said. ‘Whoever planned this is a clever devil. He will not simply hand Mariah over. You may have to release at least a part of her fortune if you wish to see her safe.’

‘Damn it, I don’t care for the money—but the rogue deserves to hang.’

‘Yes, he does,’ Andrew agreed. ‘If I have anything to say in the matter, that is exactly what will happen—but first we have to find them.’

‘I wish you good luck,’ Justin said. ‘Lucinda is in a delicate situation, therefore I can only do so much to help in this investigation. I fear that most of the burden must fall on you, Andrew—though you may call on me if necessary.’

‘I wish Lucinda a safe confinement when the time comes and congratulate you,’ Andrew replied with none of the pain the announcement might once have caused him. ‘You should take care of her and leave this business to me. I shall call on you only if I need you.’

‘Lucinda comes first with me—but I feel responsible to Mariah in a way and will do all I can to recover her. I shall send to London for another agent to help in the search.’

‘I already have a good man on the trail, but we need as much help as we can get,’ Andrew said and his expression was both grim and determined. ‘I am fairly certain that Mariah will not be found locally. This rogue will have her somewhere secure by now. We had a chance that we might find them at an inn nearby, but too much time has elapsed now. You will, of course, let me know if you hear anything?’

‘Of course. I wish you good luck in your search for Jane,’ Avonlea said. ‘If you find her, you may also find Mariah.’

‘It is my fervent prayer that we shall find them both—though I think not together, for I am certain they were separated.’

Andrew’s face was set as he made his farewells and left Avonlea’s house. He knew that it might be impossible to find Jane. She might even be dead. Mariah was probably being kept safe in the hope of her fortune. Andrew drew some comfort from that, but his feelings were in such turmoil that he hardly knew whether he was more concerned for Mariah Fanshawe or for his sister.

Something told him Jane might have escaped her captors and if that were the case his highly independent sister might even now be on her way home.

If only that were so. He would then be able to concentrate all his efforts on finding Mariah.

Chapter Three

‘It is a pity your caretaker did not have a horse you could borrow,’ Jane said as they stopped by a river to let George’s horse rest and drink. Dusk was falling softly over the countryside, hiding the contours of roads, houses and barns, making her feel they were alone in all the world. ‘Or perhaps you did not trust me to ride alone?’

George looked at her in silence for a moment. ‘I thought you had agreed to trust me?’

‘We could have travelled faster with two horses.’

‘Yes, that is true—but Mrs Muffet would have wondered how two gentlemen had arrived with only one horse between them. I wished to protect your reputation.’ His eyes seemed to burn into her, making her tremble inwardly. ‘Will you not give me your trust, Jane?’

Jane looked at him in silence. Her mind wavered between trusting him and understanding his predicament, and condemning him for his part in the affair. She sighed, because she was stiff, her ankle had begun to ache again and she was tired of being so uncomfortable. The thought of her home and her brother made her eyes prick with tears. Andrew would be out of his mind with worry.

‘My name is Jane Lanchester,’ she said as George turned away and then handed her a flask of water he had brought with them. ‘We live at Hillcrest. It is a lovely Queen Anne house not ten miles from the Avonlea estate. My brother is Lord Andrew Lanchester. Blair was my mother’s maiden name.’

George smiled at her, and once again Jane felt that odd pull at her heart. She ought not to feel anything for a man she did not know and was not sure she could trust, yet there was something about him and their situation that made her want to let down her guard.

‘Thank you. I shall try to send word to your brother, tell him not to worry.’

‘Why do you not confide the whole in Andrew?’ Jane asked and rubbed at the back of her neck tiredly. ‘He would be grateful to you for helping me and he might be able to help you find Blake.’

‘I think it more likely he would call the magistrate and have me arrested. In his shoes I should certainly do so. Besides, I still believe you should remain hidden, Miss Lanchester. Should Blake discover who you are and where you live, you would be at risk …’

‘Yes, I know the risk.’ Jane frowned. She bit her lip. ‘I suppose he would kill Andrew as well if he stood in his way. I had not thought of that—it would be my fault for becoming embroiled in this affair. How much damage one might do without intending it.’

‘It is a sobering thought, is it not?’ George looked grave. ‘Perhaps now you begin to understand what compelled me to do something I should not otherwise have contemplated.’

‘Yes, perhaps I do a little,’ Jane agreed. Her heart pounded, for she was very much affected by him in a way she hardly understood. Surely she could not be attracted to a man she ought to despise? She drank some of the water and splashed some on her face. ‘Have we far to go?’

He looked at her in concern and once again her heart raced. ‘You are tired? I have pushed you too hard, but I am concerned that Blake may be looking for you—or us. I think he may suspect me of helping you.’

‘I am sorry. I have caused you a great deal of trouble. I should have stayed out of it, as you told me, and looked for help after they took Mariah.’

‘You thought only to help someone in distress. It was brave of you, Miss Lanchester—but reckless.’

‘Andrew would say exactly the same.’ Jane felt rueful. ‘I know I am at fault. I have always acted first and thought after. My brother has scolded me for it many times. Had you not had to worry about me, you could have been looking for Mariah. You might have found her and rescued her by now.’

‘It is not as easy as that,’ George said. ‘This situation is hardly your fault, Miss Lanchester. I have to locate Blake and then follow him without being seen. My chances of success are slim, because he will be on his guard—but I do know some of the places he likes to visit. He is often at a rather sleazy gambling hall in London. I may look for him there first.’

‘You intend to leave me with your nurse and go to London?’

‘You look alarmed. You should be safe enough with Martha. I cannot stay to protect you if I am to search for Lady Fanshawe.’

‘No, of course not.’

He was right, of course he was right, but she was somehow bereft at the thought of being abandoned with a woman she did not know. For a moment her heart sank, then she thrust the unworthy thought from her mind. She had no need of a man to help her. Had she not made up her mind long ago that she would be independent and live her life as she pleased rather than be beholden to a man, who would inevitably ill use her and break her heart? How foolish she would be to allow her situation to make her weak.

‘Come, we should go on. It is not far now.’

George held out his hand to her. Jane took a step towards him. Her foot slipped on a stone buried in the grass and she stumbled. George caught her and held her to him for a moment. He looked down at her.

‘Are you ill? I have been thoughtless. You were knocked unconscious. You fell and hurt your ankle and we have ridden all day. I do not think another lady of my acquaintance would have put up with so much. Forgive me.’

Jane gazed up into his eyes. For a moment she felt weak and vulnerable, close to the tears she had been suppressing. He hesitated, then bent his head, his lips brushing her brow. The caress comforted her, though she ought to have rejected it. Instead she wanted to cling to him. Resisting the urge, she closed her eyes, fighting her tears, then looked up at him. She felt his arms close about her. He held her next to his body and his lips touched her hair; he stroked the back of her neck with his fingertips, his warmth comforting her. He did nothing to indicate a desire to make love to her; his embrace was one of comfort and reassurance, nothing more. For a moment Jane wished that she might stay in his arms for ever, but then she remembered who she was and why she was with this man and drew back.

‘I am tired, that is all. Do not be concerned for me, sir. It is Mariah we should be anxious for. I shall be well enough when we can rest.’

‘You are as much a victim in this as she,’ George said and swept her up in his arms, hoisting her into the saddle before mounting behind her. His arms went about her, holding her close to him. ‘Lean against me. Another hour or so and you can rest in Martha’s cottage. She will take good care of you.’

‘Thank you,’ Jane whispered, her throat tight. It was ridiculous to feel like weeping. She was so much luckier than Mariah. Instead of criticising and scolding George, she should be thanking him for his care of her. Her own reckless nature had brought her to this pass. Were it not for her gallant knight, she might be dead.

‘What scrape are you in now, sir?’ Martha said as she opened her cottage door to him some two hours later. ‘Good gracious, what is the matter with the young lady?’

‘She has fainted, I think,’ George replied. ‘She was very tired and she has suffered a terrible ordeal, Martha. Please take us in, for I fear she can go no farther this night.’

‘As if I would turn you down, sir.’ Martha opened the door wide. ‘She can sleep in my bed tonight. I put fresh sheets on it this very day. You carry her up and I’ll tend to her—and then you can tell me what this is all about.’

‘Thank you. I shall be for ever in your debt, Martha dearest.’

‘Stop that nonsense,’ the old lady muttered. ‘Up those stairs with you. I’ll bring what I need and see to her. The poor girl looks as if she has slept in her clothes for a week.’

‘Not quite that long,’ George said ruefully. ‘But it is not surprising that she looks exhausted, as you will understand when I tell you.’

He carried Jane up to the small bedchamber at the top of the stairs. The ceilings were low and he had to bend his head to enter through the door. The bedroom window was tiny with panes of thick grey glass and the room was sparsely furnished with just the bed, a chest of drawers and a wooden chair. However, there was a sweet, fresh smell and the sheets on the bed were spotless, as white as could be.

He pulled back the covers and deposited Jane carefully on the sheet, placing pillows so that her head rested comfortably. Hovering, he watched anxiously for her to open her eyes but they remained shut, and when he touched her forehead it felt hot.

‘I think she has a fever,’ he said as Martha entered. ‘She said she was very tired, but I thought it was just the strain of what she’s been through. Is she ill?’

Martha bent over her, placing a hand to Jane’s forehead. ‘She may have a fever. What have you done to her?’

‘I have tried to help her. She was hit over the head by ruthless men, abducted and locked up. She escaped by climbing out of a window, fell from a tree and since then I have been rushing her here.’

Martha’s wise eyes studied his face. ‘You’re not telling me the whole truth, sir—but I shan’t scold you yet. I’ll hear the young lady’s story before I pass judgement.’

‘Will she be all right? I thought it was just a faint, but she is so hot. I should be most distressed if anything should happen to her.’

‘I’ll see that it doesn’t. Get off downstairs. There’s a stew on the hob. Help yourself. I’ll see to her and then I’ll tell you my opinion.’

George hesitated, then inclined his head. ‘I’ll leave her to you, Martha. I need to know she’s safe. I have other things I should do.’

‘She’ll be safe enough with me.’

George nodded, a little smile on his lips. ‘That is why I brought her here.’

He was thoughtful as he walked down the stairs. He was not quite sure why Jane had made such an impression on him, but he knew that her safety had become his first concern.

Martha bent over the unconscious girl. She began to bathe her face, then her neck, arms and hands with cool water. As her cooling cloth did its work all over Jane’s body, the girl sighed and Martha smiled. She took away her soiled clothes and dressed Jane in a fresh nightgown that had seen better days, then ran a brush over her tangled hair.

‘You look a little better, my lovely,’ Martha said, though Jane still had her eyes closed. ‘’Tis nothing but a bit of fever you’ve got. I’ll brew you one of Martha’s special tisanes and by morning you’ll be yourself again.’

Satisfied that the girl was not very ill, Martha left her to sleep and went down the stairs. Her one-time nurseling was at the kitchen table, eating a good part of her supper. She smiled her satisfaction, feeling pleased she had bothered to cook that evening, which was not always the case, for bread and cheese was her usual fare.

‘How is she?’ George asked, getting to his feet anxiously. ‘She will pull through?’

‘She has a little fever, but it will pass. Now sit down, finish your supper while I make a brew for her—and then you can tell me the whole story.’

‘Yes, I shall, because you too could be in danger, Martha. I brought Jane here because I wasn’t sure what to do or where to hide her—but I might have brought trouble on you.’

‘I’ve seen enough trouble in my time and I dare say I can manage, but you’d best tell me the truth, Master George, because if you lie I’ll know.’

‘I don’t want Jane to know my full name yet. She knows only that my name is George.’

‘So it is, though not the name most use for you.’ Martha frowned at him. ‘Why have you been lying to the poor lass? I hope she is not in trouble because of you?’

‘No, not exactly.’ George sighed and raked his thick dark hair back from his face. ‘I had better start at the beginning when Verity asked me to help her.’

‘Ah, Verity is mixed up in this.’ Martha frowned. ‘I might have known. She was forever in a scrape when she was young and who did she ask to help her out? You’ve taken many a beating to save her, Master George.’

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