regency masquerade. by rachel edwards.  
One   
The sounds in London streets at night 
scarcely lessened from those of the day.    The 
passing Watch called at frequent intervals, 
dogs howled, cats cried, carriages clattered 
over cobbles, carousing bucks called out to 
each other as they stumbled home in the 
darkness, and those who spurned sleep 
made no concession to those who craved it.     
Awake and acutely aware of all those 
sounds was Sabina Montford Lady Mont  
ford.    Only hours earlier she had been 
merely Miss Sabina Jenkins lady's companion.    Now she was a viscountess, married 
to her mistress's son.    Hours earlier she had 
considered herself the most fortunate woman 
on earth to have earned the devotion of a 
man who could attract any woman he chose.     
Now she tossed sleeplessly in the lonely bed, 
dry eyed and filled with utter misery.     
 Oh, Toby, where are you?" she whis  
pered as the mantel clock chimed yet an  
other hour.     
Before long the servants would be stir  
ring.    If he did not return home, come the 
morning the entire household would know 
Lord Montford had abandoned his wife on 
their wedding night.     
Every time a carriage approached along 
the street Sabina stiffened in anticipation 
but invariably it went past and her heart 
sank a little lower.     
At last the sky began to lighten.    She threw 
back the counterpane, swinging her legs 
over the side of the bed.    The fire had be  
come dying embers and Sabina shivered a 
little before reaching for a shawl which she 
drew around her.    However, the chill re  
mained.     
 I've a fancy to marry you," he had said, 
 and be damned to them all "   
Sabina had allowed him to draw her along 
in the wake of his high spirits, telling herself 
it was bound to turn out well.    His mother 
would accept the marriage in the face of 
their happiness, and so would everyone 
else.     
Another carriage was approaching and 
once more she stiffened, listening intently.     
Her heart began to beat faster when it 
seemed that the carriage was slowing down.     
Barefoot, Sabina ran to the window, clutch  
ing the shawl about her for warmth and 
pulling back the heavy velvet curtain.    She 
had not been mistaken; a carriage was in  
deed coming to a stop outside the house.     
 Toby " she gasped, her demeanour 
brightening.     
At that moment she was willing to forgive 
him anything.    After a moment's hesitation, 
her heart still beating fast, she ran back 
across the room, threw off the shawl and 
jumped into bed once again.    A few minutes 
later, there came a knock at the door.     
Breathlessly she called,  Come in."   
The person who entered on her command 
was not her errant husband after all.    A 
rather sleepy maidservant came in hesitantly.    Evidently she had donned her cap 
and apron with a good deal of careless haste.     
 What is it?" Sabina demanded, alarmed 
once again.     
The girl looked embarrassed and could 
not meet Sabina's frightened eyes.     Lord 
Ambrose is here, Miss Jen                ma'am."   
Once again Sabina jumped out of bed, 
reaching for the shawl and this time pushing 
her feet into her slippers.     Lord Ambrose   
at this hour?    Does he wish to see Lord 
Montford?"   
 No, ma'am.    He was quite adamant he 
wants words with you."   
Alarmed even more now, Sabina ordered, 
 Fetch me a gown and then help me dress."   
 Which gown would you prefer, 
Ma'am?"   
 It is of no consequence.    Just be quick 
about it."   
As the girl hurried to obey she said,  He's 
foxed, if you ask me, ma'am."   
 When is Lord Ambrose not foxed?" was 
Sabina's bitter reply as she strove to push 
pins into her disobedient curls.     
Within minutes she was hurrying into the 
library where candles had been lit and a fire 
recently kindled.    There was still a chill in 
the air, but she was scarcely aware of it.     
Lord Ambrose, one of her husband's 
closest cronies, was gulping down some 
of Montford's precious brandy.    There had 
always been a plentiful supply of it at Mont  
ford House, although Sabina never questioned where it came from.    Because of the 
protracted war with the  french it had all 
but disappeared from the wine merchant's 
lists.    However, for those with special knowledge it was always available and few of those   
with sufficient means went without their 
brandy or champagne.     
As Sabina entered the room he hurriedly 
wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.     
Although he glanced at her his eyes did not 
actually meet hers.     for the first time she 
realised that they never did.     
 Lord Ambrose?    Have you seen.          " she 
struggled for a moment with the unfamiliar 
word ."              my husband?"   
He poured another full glass of brandy 
and she noticed that his hand was shaking.     
His neckcloth was slightly crumpled and 
tiny red veins in his cheeks seemed more 
florid than usual.     
Suddenly she was more alarmed than be  
fore and caught hold of his sleeve.     Lord 
Ambrose, tell me what is amiss, I beg of 
you!    Where is Montford?"   
He turned away from her.     I am the most 
wretched of men.    I'd as lief tear out my 
tongue as be the bearer of ill tidings."   
 What ill tidings?"   
Her alarm was very evident as he swal  
lowed noisily and said in a harsh voice,  I 
begged him to return home to his bride.    I 
implored him            
 My lord                has there been a mishap?     
Has he been racing his curricle again?    Oh, 
pray do not tell me he is injured "   
 It is worse, far worse," was the reply 
and the man's voice had become no more 
than a whisper.     
Sabina stepped back, letting go of his 
arm.     Worse?"   
 It was not wholly Montford's fault.    He 
was foxed and scarce knew what he was 
about.    This fellow a coxcomb if ever I saw 
one called Montford a cheat." He gulped 
back some more brandy.     Well, no gentle  
man would stand aside at that, not least 
Montford, as you well know   
Panic began to fill her heart.     Lord Am  
brose, what has happened "   
 They fought a duel."   
 Oh, no!    How could he behave so fool  
ishly?    How badly is he hurt?" When Lord 
Ambrose made no reply Sabina cried out, 
her eyes wide with fear,  Don't tell me he 
is dead "   
He hung his head and clung on tightly to 
the now empty glass.     I revile myself for 
being the bearer of such tidings.     
Sabina's legs felt weak and she sank down 
on to the edge of a chair, her mind scarcely 
able to comprehend the enormity of what 
she had been told.     
 Toby dead?    Oh no, he cannot possibly 
be dead, Lord Ambrose.    There must be 
some mistake.    Tell me this is one of his jests 
and I shall not be angry with him.    Only tell 
me       
He picked up the decanter and this time 
filled two glasses, one of which he brought 
to her.    She brushed it aside.     
 No, I thank you."   
 You are being                wonderfully brave, 
my dear.    I cannot tell you how greatly I 
admire your fortitude."   
 It is only because I cannot yet grasp the 
truth of what has happened.    I live in hope 
that at any moment I shall awake and find 
this a terrible dream."   
 Would that it were so, my lady." He 
paused for a moment before adding,  If it 
is any consolation to you his last words were 
for you.     Tell Sabina I love her," he charged 
me."   
At this revelation she covered her face 
with her hands, fighting back the despair 
she knew would engulf her all too soon.     
 Only a few hours ago we were so 
happy."   
 Indeed.    Never more so            
She looked up at him again.     What has 
happened to the other man?"   
For a moment he looked taken aback and 
then he said in a stiff tone,  Gone.    Heaven 
knows where.    If I ever encounter him       
But no.    He will not be seen again in this 
town.    Too many of your husband's friends 
would wish to meet him."   
 How did the                duel come about?"   
 Do not torture yourself, ma'am."   
 Tell me.    I must know "   
There was an edge of hysteria to her 
voice.    He turned away, fumbling for his 
snuff box, a splendid affair of rubies and 
diamonds.     We were gaming hazard  
when the accusation was made."   
 Hazard is illegal."   
He laughed harshly.     So is duelling." 
Then he added,  The place was not one of 
any rank."   
In an agonised voice she asked,  What 
was Montford doing in such a place?"   
 We were all foxed from celebrating your 
wedding.     
Abruptly she got to her feet and was 
obliged to hold on to the arm of the chair 
to steady herself.     It doesn't matter any 
longer; nothing does.    I was never meant to 
be his wife.    I knew it but he would not be 
gainsaid."   
Lord Ambrose cleared his throat and 
looked discomforted.     You must not say so, 
ma'am."   
 Where                where is he now?" she de  
manded, gulping back her tears which was 
a very great effort.     I must go to him."   
She was already making her unsteady way 
towards the door when he said sharply, 
 No, my lady; you must not."   
 You shall not stop me "   
The edge of hysteria had returned to her 
voice once more.     For your own sake, Lady 
Montford." He looked away again.     He 
took the full force of the shot in his face."   
An image of Montford's handsome features flickered before her eyes and then 
grew blurred.    His blonde curls, clear blue 
eyes which were so often full of laughter, 
the full lips which could charm with a smile 
or as easily set down with a sharp word.     
Lord Ambrose was reaching for the bell 
pull.     You must send for your maid to at  
tend you."   
Sabina laughed harshly again.     Yesterday 
I was his mother's companion; I have no 
maid."   
The room began to sway around her.    She 
was vaguely aware that Lord Ambrose 
looked concerned.    She felt nothing for him; 
she had never liked him and as the bearer   
of such news her dislike of him was intensified.     
 Lady Montford?"   
His voice came to her from out of her 
chaotic thoughts and she put out one hand 
to fend off his unwanted ministrations but 
he caught hold of her all the same just as 
darkness enveloped her entirely.     
Two   
Brookfield, the country seat of the Mont  
ford family, was oddly quiet.    No longer did 
the marble corridors echo with the cries and 
laughter of young bucks racing through 
them.     
Sabina stood at the library window, staring out at the lawns which seemed to reach 
to infinity.    The beeches which lined the 
sweeping driveway were skeletal at that time 
of the year, sspectres bowing before the 
wind.    The entire vista was a bleak one and 
the season was in tune with her heart.    Bleakness pervaded every part of her.     
Two carriages were rumbling down the 
drive and Sabina drew a sigh of relief to see 
them go.     One ordeal was over and, about 
to begin, perhaps an even worse one    
spending the rest of her life as Lady Mont  
ford with no husband at her side.    It was not 
a role to which she was fitted and she had 
no notion how she might cope.     
She remained at the window until the carriages were out of sight.    Everyone acquainted with the Montfords had paid their 
respects, most regarding Sabina with great 
curiosity, a few with real hostility.    But it 
was at Brookfield that she felt most comfortable, for it was here that her love for 
Toby Montford had flowered.    Now she was 
left with a few fond memories and a marriage which had been no more than a mockery.     
No sooner had the last carriage disappeared from view than the library door be  
gan to open slowly.     from the fact that no 
one had knocked first Sabina knew who to 
expect and turned around in time to see her 
mother in law come into the room.     
 So here you aare," she said ungraciously.     
 Hiding away, eh?    Well, I own I cannot 
blame you for that."   
 I                needed some time to myself."   
 Humph "   
The old lady was leaning heavily on a cane 
and limped painfully across the room before 
easing herself into an armchair by the fire.     
 Everyone has gone at last," Sabina said 
when she could bear the silence no longer.     
 Yes," the dowager breathed.     There is 
only the two of us left now, Jenkins."   
Sabina did not trouble to remind her that 
she, too, was Lady Montford.    It seemed to 
satisfy the dowager to ignore her son's marriage.    Sabina could not find it in her heart 
to blame her for that.    The news of their 
marriage had been almost as bitter a blow 
as her son's death.     
As the dowager rested her cane against 
the side of the chair Sabina came forward 
at last.     Shall I fetch a stool for your foot, 
my lady?"   
 Don't fuss, girl."   
Sabina drew back.    Her situation was an 
odd one.    Once, as Lady Montford's companion, she had known her place.    Now she 
did not.     
As Sabina moved away again the dowager, dressed in deepest black, fixed her with 
a malevolent eye.    The Dowager Lady Mont  
ford had never been the easiest of mistresses.    Her demands were many, her 
temper uncertain, but at least then Sabina 
had known how to treat her.     
 He only married you to outrage his 
peers," the dowager accused.     He was always seeking to shock.    I was constantly en  
treating him to become leg shackled, to 
repair the family fortunes with a suitable 
marriage.    Marriage to his mother's companion must have seemed a great lark."   
 I loved him," Sabina answered with 
quiet dignity,  and I believe he loved me 
in return.    That is the only reason why I 
consented to marry him."   
 You are very naive.    My son loved only 
himself.    I have long been aware of that.    If 
he was so besotted with you why did he not 
stay with you on your wedding night?    Tell 
me that?"   
Sabina could not answer.    She wrung her 
hands together in anguish for she feared 
what Lady Montford was saying was all too 
likely to be true.     
 Is there anything to be gained by dis  
cussing it now?"   
 Not for you.    I understand why you wish 
to forget, but I thought you had more sense 
than to be taken in by his silken tongue.    I 
suppose you thought he was well  
breeched."   
 No, I did not marry him to elevate my  
self to wealth, Lady Montford "   
The old lady smiled bitterly.     In the 
event you did not.    The duns have scarce   
ceased to plague me since the news of Mont  
ford's                death was made public."   
She stared into the flames of the fire as 
Sabina asked, timidly,  Did he owe a great 
deal?"   
 A small fortune.    Of course he would not 
have told you that.    He would have promised 
you everything, I do not doubt." Sabina 
looked away, realising that his mother knew 
him so well.    By comparison Sabina had not 
known him at all.     He didn't condescend 
to pay anyone.    Not his boot maker, his wine 
merchant, or his tailor.    None of them have 
been paid for months.    The list of his creditors seems endless.    Each day brings more 
of them, like a flock of carrion crows.     
 What is to be done, or should I not ask?"   
 You may as well know; such matters 
cannot be kept secret, I fear.    I have a small 
estate in Cornwall.    The sale of it will cover 
the debts.    Brookfield is entailed to the male 
line." She laughed harshly and cast Sabina 
a fearsome look.     There will be no more 
Montfords.    My son was the last of the line.     
He didn't even do his duty and produce a 
son to inherit his title.    It was the least he 
could have done for the family name.    He 
never did anything to bring it honour.    Just 
disgrace and ruin."   
 I thought                you were                fond of 
him, ma'am."   
 He was my son "   
Crestfallen, Sabina said then, wistfully as 
she looked out of the window once more, 
 I wish I'd had a son."   
The dowager's hands clutched the arms 
of her chair.     Not yours, girl.    It was a mes  
alliance if ever there was one.    It would have 
come to grief, let me tell you.    You have 
nothing which would have satisfied my son 
for long."   
Tears pricked at Sabina's eyes, but she 
was determined that the old lady should not 
see them.     I resisted him for a long while.     
I told him I was not a fit wife for one of his 
situation, but he would not listen."   
As if she hadn't spoken the dowager went 
on,  He could have married anyone.    Some 
of the greatest heiresses in the land wished 
to marry him, but," she added with a sigh, 
 that would have been too conventional.     
Montford always sought to shock.    Well, it 
is too late now.     
Sabina stared at her pityingly for a moment or two before saying.     Do you wish 
me to leave?    I shall do so if you wish it."   
The old lady looked up slowly.     My lawyer,  Ffortescue, tells me the marriage was   
legal." Sabina stiffened.     You are entitled 
to be here." She drew in a sharp breath.     
 Indeed your entitlement exceeds mine.     
You are the mistress of Brookfield."   
 As far as I am concerned, my lady, you 
will always be that."   
 And when I am gone you shall reign here 
alone.    You are trapped, my dear.    There is 
no money.    You cannot become the great 
lady you no doubt envisaged when you married my son.    We are both doomed to live 
and to die here.    I'll wager you did not contemplate that fate when you became legshackled to my scape grace son.     
 No, indeed.    I had hoped to be a good 
wife, to end his scape grace ways, and            
she turned away in distress,  to bring up 
our children here in the country."   
 You must have windmills in your head.     
My son, I regret to say, was committed to 
his rake hell ways.     
 I cannot own that he was so bad, my 
lady.    I truly believed he would have settled 
down."   
 There was nothing you could have done 
to stop his dissipation.    The kindest thing 
for you was his premature death."   
Sabina's eyes opened wide with horror 
and, choking back her tears, she ran from   
the room at last, her mother in law's bitter 
laughter echoing in her ears.     
 I do hope you find me satisfactory, 
ma'am."   
The maidservant was looking at her anxiously as Sabina gazed at her own reflection 
in the mirror of the dressing table.    At the 
girl's words she turned to look at her.     In  
deed I am, Daisy.    I beg of you do not imagine because I did not want a maid that it 
was in some way a reflection upon your ad  
mirable abilities.    Lady Montford suddenly 
took into her head the notion that I should 
have my own maid; now, of course, I can 
only be glad that she did so."   
The girl beamed.     Those London lady's 
maids must be a deal better than me.     
Sabina laughed.     I wouldn't know; I 
didn't have one in London.    You may be 
quite certain that you suit me very well, 
Daisy."   
There came a knock at the door and the 
dowager's elderly maidservant came in 
when summoned and after giving what was 
a reluctant curtsey, said,  Lady Montford 
requests your presence, ma'am."   
Over the previous months, during her 
widowhood, Sabina had noted a similar re    
luctance amongst the older servants to show 
deference to her, although she did not blame 
them for their tardiness.    It was only a short 
time before that she had been one of them.     
She immediately got to her feet.     Tell her 
ladyship I shall be there in a few moments."   
The woman nodded and withdrew sullenly.    Daisy clucked her tongue.     It's shocking how her ladyship expects you to attend 
her every whim even though you are the 
mistress of Brookfield."   
 I don't mind," Sabina answered softly.     
 It is not so different to what I did before, 
except that her ladyship is now a little more 
irritable than she was then, which is only 
to be expected.    In her present state of ill  
health, Lady Montford would find fault 
with a fat goose.     
 But you are no longer her companion; 
you are the mistress of this house, my lady."   
 The house is well run by its servants so 
I have little else to do save attend her when 
she wishes it, and if it pleases her   
 Ah, but does it, my lady?    We've all 
heard her shouting at you.    Carries on some  
thing shocking, she does."   
 You must recall that she is old and ill, 
and Lord Montford's death was a dire blow   
to her hopes for the future.    We must all feel 
for her, Daisy."   
The maidservant looked abashed.     Yes, 
ma'am.    I do beg your pardon for mention  
ing it."   
Sabina looked suddenly thoughtful.     
 Lady Montford will not live for ever, and 
then, I fear, I shall have very little to occupy 
my time."   
 Aye, the house is a mite empty with 
Lord Montford gone," the girl admitted, 
drawing a sigh.    Then looking at her mistress 
suggested,  You could visit the local gentry, 
my lady, now that you're mistress here."   
Sabina smiled and glanced fleetingly at 
her reflection in the mirror.    Ironically black 
suited her, making her blonde curls seem 
fairer and her eyes a deeper blue.     
 Oh no, Daisy, I have too much regard 
for my own sensibilities to endure their dis  
approbation.    I have committed a heinous 
crime in marrying into their ranks and 
bringing neither money nor property with 
me."   
When Sabina entered her mother in law's 
bed chamber she saw that the dowager Lady 
Montford was propped up against lace  
edged pillows which bore the Montford   
crest.    Her face was lined and grey, and Sa  
bina's heart went out to her in pity.     
In the months since Toby Montford's 
death, Sabina had seen his mother visibly 
shrink.    Although she was not a young 
woman she looked far older than her years, 
and spent much of her time in her room.     
As her health deteriorated so did her temper 
and even her most loyal and longstanding 
servants had been heard to mutter rebellious 
words.    Sabina understood, though, for she 
too mourned the bright star which had 
brought light into both their lives.     
Despite her hearty condemnation of his 
ways, the dowager Lady Montford had 
loved her son.    His loss was the most griev  
ous blow she could have suffered, and the 
knowledge that the old and respected title 
must die, too, wounded her deeply.    The 
title meant nothing to Sabina, and her memories of Toby were fading with each passing 
day.    The upkeep of the Brookfield estate 
meant little to her too, but she did endeavour to run it as best she could.     for the 
honour of being Viscountess Montford she 
deemed it the least she could do.     
The old lady looked up as she entered the 
room, saying tartly,  So there you are, girl.     
I've been waiting for you an unconscionable   
time.    I suppose it's no more than I can ex  
pect now."   
 I thought you might be asleep and I 
didn't wish to disturb you," Sabina replied 
as she walked briskly across the room.     
 I never sleep.    That luxury has deserted 
me, like so many others I used to enjoy."   
 I'm sorry to hear you say so, my lady.     
Perchance Doctor     Lightbody can recommend 
a sleeping draught."   
 Tush!    I shall sleep for long enough when 
I am dead, and that release will not be long 
in coming."   
The dowager often spoke in such a vein.     
Sabina would have preferred her to pretend 
she would regain her health and spirits, but 
it was not in the old lady's nature to be 
anything but blunt.     
 Don't stand there like a buffle head.     
The newspaper has arrived from London 
and I wish you to read it to me."   
Sabina immediately sat down at the bed  
side, glad of something to do.    Besides, she, 
too, enjoyed hearing the news from London.     
 Oh, there is good news, my lady," she 
said immediately.     There are to be celebrations in London this summer to mark 
Boney's defeat."   
 Your voice is so shrill.    You will give me 
the headache." Sabina immediately mod  
erated her tone which caused her mother  
in law to further complain.     I am persuaded 
you only wish to vex me.    You are speaking 
so softly now I can scarce hear a word you 
say."   
Once again Sabina altered her tone of 
voice.     The Tzar of Russia is to attend the 
celebrations.    Is that not wonderful?    I can 
scarce believe that dreadful man is defeated 
at last and gone to Elba."   
 The war is older than you are.    I recall 
a visit to Paris when I was young.    Montford 
always wished to go there, too." She sighed.     
 Now he never will and neither will I.    Read 
on, girl."   
Sabina obeyed, for a while recounting the 
news.    The dowager sank back into the pillows and closed her eyes.    Sabina didn't stop 
reading, for she knew her mother in law 
was not asleep.     
Eventually she said,  Enough of the 
news.    Read me the announcements."   
 The Honourable Betsey Poole is to 
marry Lord Greystoke, ma" am."   
 A mesalliance if ever there was one, but 
she has a fair portion and his pockets are   
always to let.    I dare say it will do.    What 
else?"   
Sabina hesitated for a moment or two be  
fore reading.     The death is announced of 
His Grace the Duke of Norton."   
For a moment the dowager was silent and 
then she said,  Poor Alfie, so he has gone 
to Peg Trantum, too.    Soon there will be few 
of us                of my generation left."   
 You mustn't say so, ma'am.    You still 
have many years left ahead of you."   
 I pray that is not so.    There is no longer 
any pleasure in life for me.     
Sabina drew a sigh.     We both miss Mont  
ford, ma'am."   
 Both of us?" the dowager snapped, and 
Sabina feared she had made a mistake in 
mentioning his name.    Then the old woman 
sighed, too.     I dare say you do, only my 
devotion remains in spite of his faults.    You 
see him as a man of perfection.    Marriage to 
him would have remedied that very 
quickly."   
She began to chuckle and Sabina said in 
a quiet voice,  You credit me with little 
sense, ma'am.    It might well have been my 
fate to end his rake hell ways.     
 You did that all right.    Now read to me, 
girl."   
Sabina continued to read sections of the 
newspaper and the news from London made 
her suddenly wish to be there, to be a part 
of the celebrations.    Her earlier visits to the city were always as Lady Montford's companion, at her constant call.    To be there 
with no such constraints would be quite a 
different matter.     
She paused in her reading, feeling guilty 
at such thoughts.    She had never craved the 
kind of life London offered.    Indeed, she 
truly had hoped Montford, once they were 
wed, would eschew that life and settle for 
a more sober one of rustication.    Now she 
knew it had been a vain hope however much 
she pretended to herself it would have been 
so.    Retrospective thoughts caused her to admit he was a rake who would never have 
reformed.     
Her mother in law's rhythmic breathing 
proved she was at last asleep and Sabina put 
down the newspaper, drawing a sigh.    After 
hesitating a moment she got to her feet and 
went out of the room.    Sarah, the dowager's 
maidservant, was sitting just outside the 
door.    By the slow way the maid got to her 
feet she knew she intended it to be a slight, 
but Sabina didn't care.    Being Lady Mont    
ford meant nothing now that Toby was 
dead.     
 Sarah, Lady Montford is sleeping now.     
I think she will sleep for a while."   
 Yes, ma'am."   
 I'm going across to the village, but I 
won't be very long if she awakens and 
wishes to see me again."   
Sarah cast her an insolent look.     Yes, 
Ma'am, if my lady wants you I shall tell her 
you're out."   
 But not for long."   
As Sarah went back into the dowager's 
room Sabina went to fetch her bonnet and 
pelisse.    It was shabby and outmoded by 
many years but Sabina didn't give it a 
thought.    Toby had vowed to buy her new 
gowns in Paris where he intended to take 
her in the wake of Boney's defeat.    She had 
never taken seriously his promises to buy 
her jewels and all manner of precious things, 
which was just as well.     
As she put on her bonnet she drew a sigh.     
The pity she felt was not for herself.    She 
pitied Lady Montford every day, but she 
felt pity for her poor dead husband too.    He 
had enjoyed life so well it was iniquitous 
that he had to die so young.     
 Foolish, foolish Toby," she whispered,   
and then hurried down the stairs and out of 
the house as fast as she could go.     
Three   
The worst of the winter had passed, hardly 
noticed by the inhabitants of Brookfield.     
However Sabina did now take note of the 
advent of spring heralded by the appearance 
of spring flowers all over the estate and the 
green buds on the trees, and she found she 
was glorying in it.    Although it was still chill 
weather, the sun shone and she was warmed 
by it whenever she ventured forth.    Each 
day, whilst the dowager slept, she walked, 
either on the estate or as far as the village.     
The brisk walk, especially on the coldest of 
days, had acted as an anodyne to both her 
heartbreak and her mother in law's wasp  
ishness, which had cut her more deeply than 
she admitted to anyone.     
She went immediately to the garden 
where she picked a large bunch of spring 
flowers which were erupting from the 
ground despite its neglect.    As an after  
thought she went down to the stables and 
called Hubert, Toby's old spaniel, who 
came lumbering up to her, panting expectantly.    Thus accompanied, she began to 
walk across the fields towards the village.     
At all times the village was visible from the 
house and the walk was an easy one.    As she 
approached, her heart began to rise in spirit 
as always when she was about to visit the 
vicarage.     
Her first stop, however, was the church  
yard where the headstones were crushed 
together in a disorderly jumble.    The Mont  
fords had a mausoleum set apart from the 
rest of the graveyard where members of the 
family had been buried for centuries past.     
Sabina paused to leave some of the flowers 
near the gate which only a few months earlier had opened to admit Toby Montford.     
The plaque, which still shone brightly, 
made no mention of his wife.    Sabina could 
not question tthat; she had never truly been 
his wife, a fact which pained her as much 
as his loss.     
She did not tarry there for long as the 
wind was growing sharp.     farther along was 
an older grave with moss clinging to the 
headstone and she paused there, too, to read 
the inscription.     
 Eleanor Jenkins born 1769 departed this 
life  180O   
Beloved wife  of James Jenkins   
Safe  in the arms of the Lord."   
After pausing for a few moments Sabina 
left the remainder of the flowers on her 
mother's grave and, calling to Hubert who 
had been sniffing amongst the grave stones, 
she walked slowly towards the vicarage, the 
dog ambling at her heels.    The door was 
opened before she had a chance to knock 
and her father's housekeeper who stood in 
the doorway was smiling with anticipation.     
 Miss Sabina " She flushed.     Lady 
Montford.    I saw you coming across from 
the churchyard.    Mister Jenkins will be so 
pleased you called."   
As Sabina stepped into the hall, she said, 
 I do hope Hubert hasn't got muddy paws."   
 That's of no matter.    I'll take him to the 
kitchen and give him some gingerbread."   
 Lucky Hubert."   
 Would you like some to take back to the 
house, ma'am?    It's fresh made."   
 I would love some.    How is Papa?" she 
asked then.     
 In fine health, ma'am."   
 I liked it better when you called me Miss 
Sabina."   
The housekeeper smiled and led her   
down the passage.     Shall I fetch a dish of 
tea?"   
 No, I thank you, Misses Dunscombe.    I 
cannot stay long.    Lady Montford isn't too 
well and is like to want me.     
The housekeeper looked dismayed.     
 Poor lady.    She took his lordship's passing 
very hard."   
 I'm afraid so."   
The library door suddenly opened and a 
tall, thin man stood framed in the doorway.     
 Sabina!    My dear child.    Come along in.     
I was certain I recognised your voice although my hearing is not what it was."   
She allowed him to embrace her and then, 
once inside the library, removed her bonnet.    As she did so she glanced around at the 
familiar and dearly loved room where she 
had spent so many childhood hours amongst 
her father's books.    The faintly musty smell 
of the room was a familiar one, too.     
 I was just telling Misses Dunscombe that 
I cannot stay for long, Papa.    Lady Montford 
is not too well."   
The Reverend Jenkins sat down behind 
his desk as Sabina removed her gloves.     
 Poor lady.    I must call in on her soon and 
attempt to give her some comfort.     
 She will be glad to receive you.     
 Do you think so?" As his daughter 
looked at him in amazement he sighed.     It 
is my duty and my wish to lend her succour 
in her need but she has become very bitter 
of late."   
 That is nothing to do with you, Papa."   
 She cannot forget that it is my daughter 
who married her beloved son.    However, 
you may be assured that I will call upon 
her."   
Sabina sat down on a chair near to the 
fire and he went on, gazing at her thoughtfully,  Your cheeks are rosy.    You look to 
be in rude health, my dear."   
 The walk from the house was a brisk 
one, Papa."   
 You have no need to walk.    A carriage is 
there for the asking."   
She smiled faintly.     It always was, but I 
enjoy the walk."   
 Lady Montford should not be roaming 
the countryside alone."   
She laughed.     Before my marriage I did 
so frequently.    You must not trouble your 
head over such trifles, Papa."   
 You are a great concern to me."   
She blushed.     It is good to know that, 
but you have no need to trouble your head 
on my account.    I am quite content as I am."   
 That is indeed a comfort, Sabina.    I often 
wonder the wisdom of allowing you to go 
there."   
 There is nothing to be gained by such 
a discussion now."   
 Ah, but if your mother had lived   
 She would have agreed that I should go.     
Lady Montford needed me, and now, Papa, 
she needs me even more."   
He nodded.     It gives me no satisfaction 
to see you as mistress of that place in the 
present circumstances.    I'd as lief you were 
the wife of a more humble man, but a wife  
all the same.     
She smiled again.     I can never regret my 
marriage, Papa.    I loved Montford."   
 You were uncharacteristically rash in 
marrying him."   
 We were, I believe, possessed by some 
strange enchantment.    Besides, Montford 
was afraid if anyone were told in advance 
his mother would attempt to stop us."   
 With good reason, child."   
 Papa " she protested.     
 If you had sought my counsel I would 
have advised against it."   
 Inverted snobbery, no doubt.    The 
daughter of a vicar being no fit match for a   
viscount.    I told Montford that myself, but 
he was not impressed by my argument."   
 No, no, my dear, you mistake me.    You 
are worthy of a prince, but recall I had 
known poor Montford since I baptised him 
in the font of that very church next door.     
He was not for you, Sabina.    He was a rake, 
a gambler, a very poor sort of a fellow, although it grieves me to say so."   
 Papa," she interrupted in a gentle voice, 
 in the months since Montford died I have 
come to recognise all his failings.    Love made 
me blind but I am not such a green girl any 
more."   
 It is all a nonsense now," he said with 
a bluff laugh.     He cannot wound you, but 
I pray every day for you, for your future 
happiness.     
 I am happy, Papa, truly I am, much 
happier, in fact, than if I had been obliged 
to take my place in Society as Montford's 
wife.    That would have been a miserable ex  
perience for us both, I fear."   
He looked unconvinced and then he said, 
 You may not be aware of it, my dear, but 
I remain here only because of you.    If it were 
not for you I would resign this living."   
Sabina stiffened.     Resign your living!     
But, Papa, where would you go?    You have   
lived here for so many years.    I was born 
here."   
 This is not a sudden decision by any 
means.    Your Aunt Rose is continually writing to me extolling the worth of Tunbridge 
Wells.    I shall eventually join her there."   
For a moment she looked dismayed and 
then her face relaxed into a smile.     If that 
is truly what you wish to do, go now, Papa.     
I shall miss you terribly, but you should go.     
I would not wish you to remain here for my 
sake."   
 We shall see," he answered noncommittally.     When if I do it will be for you 
to assign another incumbent the living."   
She chuckled.     Oh, I never realised it."   
 When the time comes there is another I 
would wish to recommend; a Mister Whit  
worth.    He is an exceeding fine young man.     
Indeed, I would have you meet him   
Sabina was eyeing him wryly.     Papa, you 
are unsuited to such pursuits.    Young, 
unwed, no doubt." He looked abashed at 
her ridicule and she laughed.     I shall meet 
your young curate if you wish me to, but 
do not, because I fall in love so easily, expect 
it to happen all the            same." 
 What plans have you for the future?" 
he asked, still looking abashed.     
 I shall continue to live at Brookfield and 
bear Lady Montford company."   
 I thought you might say so.    Have you 
no thought for your own future?"   
Sabina smiled.     I face each day as it 
comes.    I had thought to invite Aunt Rose 
to Brookfield.    It is entirely my prerogative 
to do so, but I fear Lady Montford would 
take it amiss.     
 You have no opportunity to meet young 
men."   
 I have no wish to."   
 But you would be an excellent wife."   
 Papa, only think of my situation.    I have 
elevated myself out of my own class and men 
of my late husband's ilk will only look down 
upon me as an upstart.    It is not as if I am 
a wealthy widow.    The estate scarce pays its 
way.     
 You deserve far better," her father re  
affirmed.     
 I was a foolish, green girl when I consented to marry Montford, and now I must 
contrive as best I can." She got to her feet 
and kissed him on the top of his head.     Dear 
Papa, forgive me for rushing away, but I 
have been gone too long already."   
He patted her hand and he still looked 
concerned as she left the vicarage, clutching   
the packet of gingerbread Misses Dunscombe 
had given her.    She started back across the 
fields with Brookfield in view on its elevated 
site surrounded by fields.     
It was a mellow stone building too large 
for its few inhabitants.    She could see the 
curls of smoke issuing from its chimneys.     
Even though she reminded herself constantly, Sabina could not believe it now be  
longed to her.     
Hubert began to jump at her side and, 
stooping down, she picked up a twig to 
throw for him.    He, too, seemed imbued by 
the joy of spring.    Sabina laughed as he constantly ran for the twig she threw, aware 
that it was a considerable time since she had 
laughed with such spontaneity.    After a 
while she ran with him until she was breath  
less and her blonde curls began to shake 
loose from her bonnet.     
 A fine lady I am " she said to Hubert 
as she removed her bonnet.     
The dog panted, seemingly in agreement.     
 At least you do not care," she added.     
 Poor Lady Montford cares so much, but 
she is too old and ill to be without me."   
For a moment she paused to reflect, won  
dering if, had he lived, Montford would 
have grown tired of her, just as he had   
grown weary of his constant procession of 
lightskirts.    She knew all about them now; 
over the previous months the dowager had 
spared her no knowledge of the stranger she 
had married.    Toby had been handsome, 
charming and very plausible, but he had 
been a stranger.    She knew that now.     
Lost in the depths of her own thoughtsshe suddenly became aware of another presence not too far away.    Hubert began to 
bark; Sabina turned on her heel, scanning 
her surroundings.    Then she caught sight of 
a horseman in the adjoining field.    The land 
was not part of her own; it belonged to a 
neighbour with whom she was only slightly 
acquainted.    Since she had become Lady 
Montford he had made no effort to become 
better acquainted with her.     
Sabina squinted into the dying sun.    The 
man was tall, it seemed, and motionless in 
the saddle.    The fact that he had evidently 
been watching her caused her cheeks to redden.    He was too far away for her to recognise but there was something familiar about 
him and he appeared to be a gentleman of 
Quality.     
After a moment or two she called to Hubert and ran the rest of the way back to 
Brookfield as if someone were in pursuit.     
Four   
The house was quiet when Sabina arrived 
back.    No message from the dowager 
awaited her so she went to her room im  
mediately, glad of the respite.     For some reason she could not identify, she felt 
unsettled.    Of course, the thought of her father leaving the area was not one she welcomed, although she did recognise it would 
be best for him to settle in Tunbridge Wells 
with his widowed sister, who had always 
remained dear to both of them.     
The servants were preparing for dinner 
when she emerged from her room again.     
Sabina didn't doubt that, as usual, she 
would dine alone in the large dining room, 
a huge selection of dishes set out for her sole 
consumption.    Most of them were returned 
to the kitchen untouched, but it had not 
always been so.    She recalled a time when 
the dining room had been filled with a noisy 
crowd of Toby Montford's cronies, eating 
heartily of all the dishes and drinking from 
the plentiful supply of wine until they were 
well and truly foxed.    The walls of Brook  
field had resounded with their laughter, the   
paths thundering with the sound of carriage 
wheels as they raced around the estate caus  
ing all to flee before them.     
Whenever she passed the billiard room 
Sabina could not help but recall the times 
Toby and his friends had wagered large 
sums of money on the outcome of the game, 
whilst she had watched quietly from a corner, glad only to be in his company even 
when he did not notice her presence.    When 
he did cast her a careless comment, the pleasure had lasted for days.     
The billiard table now stood unused in 
the centre of the floor, shrouded in Holland 
covers, like so much of the furniture in 
many of the rooms.    Sabina suddenly had 
the vision of growing old alone in the crum  
bling house.    The notion horrified her, and 
yet she had no idea how to escape.     
 Lady Montford."   
Even after all this time she was unused 
to being addressed in such a manner.    Her 
mother in law invariably addressed her as 
Jenkins, and the butler was obliged to call 
her twice before she turned on her heel to 
face him.     
 I'm sorry, Dobson; I didn't hear you.     
What is it?"   
 There is a gentleman to see you, my 
lady."   
She frowned.     A gentleman to see me?     
Are you certain he asked for me?"   
 Yes, my lady.    When I explained that the 
dowager Lady Montford was indisposed 
and did not receive callers, he immediately 
asked for you.    He gave his name as Lord 
Ashendon, ma'am.    I have taken the liberty 
of showing him into the small drawing 
room.    I trust that was in order."   
Sabina smiled faintly.     Yes, Dobson, it 
was, and I shall be along presently."   
She quickly made her way along the corridor, pausing only to ascertain that her hair 
was neat and her clothes unwrinkled.    Liv  
ing as she did now, she paid scant care to 
her appearance.    There was no possibility of 
a chance encounter with the gentleman of 
the house who might smile and pay her a 
pretty compliment, causing her cheeks to 
redden.    Since Montford's death Sabina had 
not troubled about the way she looked, for 
few enough visitors apart from her own father called at Brookfield nowadays.     
As she approached the drawing room her 
mind was frantically seeking to place a face 
to the name.    Undoubtedly he was an 
acquaintance of Lord Montford, but he had   
so many; all those rackety bucks who made 
a constant procession through his town and 
country homes.     
After taking a deep breath she pushed 
open the doors.    When she went into the 
room he was standing with his back to her, 
studying a Reynolds portrait of the dowager 
Lady Montford as a young woman, which 
hung over the mantel.     
As the door opened he turned on his heel.     
Sabina bobbed a curtsey.     My lord, forgive 
the delay.    The servants couldn't locate me."   
 That is of no account," he answered and 
she blushed beneath his scrutiny.     It is sufficient that you have been kind enough to 
receive me."   
She recalled him now.    He had indeed 
been numbered amongst her late husband's 
cronies, but one she had always thought un  
suited to Montford's more boisterous ways.     
He was several years older, for one thing, 
and reputed to be very wealthy, which was 
unusual for one of her late husband's 
friends.    Most of them, she knew, were in  
variably out of funds, spending freely when 
money was available and living on credit 
when it was not.     
She did not doubt that Lord Ashendon 
was as dissolute as the others though.    She   
disliked him as heartily, too.    Ever since 
Montford's death she had taken all his cronies in dislike.    They were equally guilty of 
his death in her opinion; they encouraged 
his wildness and did not do enough to dis  
courage that fatal duel.     
In particular she had always disliked 
Lord Ashendon, for he discomforted her.     
He above all the others seemed haughty in 
the extreme and did, she was certain, look 
down upon her.    He had made no secret of 
his disapproval of their marriage, although 
he had never actually uttered one impolite 
word to her, but she remained convinced of 
his disapprobation.     
She clasped her hands together and came 
further into the room, aware that his dark 
eyes were still surveying her with keen interest.    As he no doubt found little which he 
could admire the knowledge was sufficient 
to bring bright spots of colour to her cheeks 
once again.     
 I trust I do not intrude at an inopportune 
moment, my lady."   
 Indeed not," she murmured.     Please be 
seated, my lord."   
He waited until she herself was seated 
before sitting down some distance away 
from her.    Sabina stole a glance at him, aware   
of how imposing he looked.    All Toby's cronies were fine looking men, all of the first 
rank of the aristocracy, and always disso  
lute.    He, like all the others, dressed with 
immaculate taste.    His buckskin breeches 
fitted perfectly without a wrinkle, his coat 
was of the finest stuff, and his neck cloth 
folded with infinite care in a manner which 
would please Brummel himself.    His hair 
was a mass of curls, some of which fell over 
his brow in a style made popular by Lord 
Byron whose poetry Sabina often read.    On 
one occasion she had caught a glimpse of 
him at a rout in London and although there 
had been no opportunity to speak to him 
she treasured the memory of that splendidly 
romantic figure.     
She shifted uncomfortably in her chair, 
wondering if it was incumbent upon her to 
speak first.    Her mode of living had not pre  
pared her to receive aristocrats on an equal 
footing.    She had only been required to at  
tend Lady Monfford at all times, to fetch and 
to carry but never to converse with callers.     
 I am at present staying at the home of 
Sir George Dudley, a neighbour of yours," 
the earl told her as he sat back in the chair, 
 and deemed it an opportune moment to 
call on you."   
 That is kind of you, Lord Ashendon."   
It suddenly occurred to her that he must 
have been the man on horseback she had 
seen that afternoon, but as he did not mention being there neither did she.     
 As the wife of an old friend it is not kind, 
but proper, and indeed it is a great pleasure 
seeing you in such good spirits."   
A faint blush tinged her cheeks once 
again.     I needs must keep cheerful," she 
replied.     
 Lady Dudley tells me you are not often 
to be seen abroad in the county."   
 My mother in law is almost always confined to the house nowadays and I feel it 
incumbent upon me to bear her company."   
 I am sorry to hear you say so.    I thought 
her indisposition to be only a temporary 
matter.    Her friends will be sorry to hear of 
it." After a moment's pause he added,  I 
fear Montford's death was a great blow to 
her."   
Sabina looked away.    She wished he would 
go.    After Montford's funeral she had de  
cided she never wished to see any of his 
cronies again.    In the months since, she had 
not changed her mind.     
 I did wonder if you intended to take up 
residence in London again."   
She cast him a sharp look.     That is out 
of the question.    As I said earlier Lady Mont  
ford is too frail to travel."   
He smiled faintly, adding to the general 
air of indolence which he had about him.     
 That is a great pity.    Perchance when she 
rallies?"   
 I fear there is little chance of that, Lord 
Ashendon.    In any event I am a country  
woman at heart.    I have no wish to enter 
Society any more than the ton would wish 
me amongst their number."   
He looked astonished at such a statement.     
 You are remarkable modest, ma'am.    I can  
not conceive why you should think so."   
Sabina smiled bitterly.     You are exceed  
ing polite, my lord.    If we are to speak 
plainly you know as well as I that I am 
regarded as an upstart and would not be 
welcome in the salons of the ton."   
His astonishment turned to amusement.     
His eyes twinkled and she could see that he 
was fighting back his laughter, which only 
wounded her further and she averted her 
face.     
 You cannot be more mistaken.    Do you 
doubt that had Montford lived you would 
have been accepted as his wife?"   
 Perhaps                I suppose I would            
 However," he went on with scarce a 
pause,  he is dead and I can well understand 
your reluctance to stand alone in such company.    You must be unaware that the manner 
of Montford's death has elevated you into 
the realms of heroism." She stared at him 
then and he went on in answer to her un  
spoken question,  Lady Montford, being 
widowed on your wedding night has caused 
all those who know it to regard you with 
awe."   
 How odd!    I regard it as a great misfortune."   
 Oh, no one doubts it, my lady.    Sympathy for you is rife and were you to come 
to London now you would be much in de  
mand I assure you.     
His words seemed to hang in the air for 
a moment or two before she looked away 
once more, this time in some confusion.     I 
can scarce credit that, Lord Ashendon."   
He did laugh then, but she could not take 
exception to it.     My dear Lady Montford, 
if you knew the ton as I do you would credit 
it all too well."   
 It has been made abundantly clear to me 
that I do not know the ways of Society.    It 
may surprise a great many people to learn, 
if I am to be honest, that I do not wish to."   
 As you please, Lady Montford, but I 
deem it a great pity that you should think 
so badly of your late husband's friends."   
He still looked amused which annoyed 
her further.    A moment later there came a 
knock on the door.    Sabina was relieved to 
see her maidservant who glanced worriedly 
at Lord Ashendon, bobbed a curtsey and 
then addressed her mistress.     
 Beggin" your pardon, my lady, but Sarah's in a takin".    Lookin" for you all over 
the house, she is."   
 Thank you, Daisy.    You may tell her I 
shall come presently."   
As the maidservant withdrew, Sabina 
looked to Lord Ashendon, who was already 
getting to his feet.     My mother in law must 
wish to see me," she explained.     
 She is a fortunate woman to have you 
in attendance. "   
 It is what I am accustomed to doing, but 
I should not deem her fortunate.    She 
mourns Montford dreadfully."   
 It is evident that you do, too."   
He was looking at her curiously and she 
replied,  He was so full of life.    My own 
seems empty without him."   
He began to move towards the door and 
she hurried to accompany him.     I am ex    
pected at Dudley Hall for dinner, so I shall 
not detain you any longer," he explained.     
 Thank you for calling, my lord."   
He paused by the door.     I expect to re  
main a few more days in the area; perchance 
I may call again."   
Sabina could not meet his level gaze.    It 
was always disconcerting to her.     Forgive 
me, but I would prefer it if you did not.    It 
might be a little difficult for you to under  
stand but seeing any of Montford's friends 
can only distress both my mother in law 
and myself."   
His demeanour seemed to change as she 
spoke.    He withdrew from her although he 
scarcely moved.    However, she was acutely 
aware of it.     
 As you wish, Lady Montford," he answered stiffly.     
He bowed and was gone.    Sabina watched 
him go down the stairs without a further 
glance in her direction.    To her great sur  
prise she found that tears were coming to 
her eyes.    It had been an abysmal meeting.     
She knew she had handled it in a dreadful 
way.    Her lack of sophistication and inability 
to converse in a proper manner had never 
been more evident.     
 Lady Montford  "   
She whirled around to see Sarah coming 
towards her and she seemed unusually agitated.    As Lord Ashendon left the house the 
maid cried,  Oh, Lady Montford, do come 
quickly!    My lady is taken real bad, worse 
than ever before.     
All else forgotten, Sabina lifted her skirts 
and began to run towards her mother in  
law's room.     Have Dobson send a carriage 
for Doctor  Lightbody."   
 He's already done that.    She's real bad.     
I can tell.    Never seen her like this before."   
When Sabina rushed into the room she 
understood Sarah's concern.    Lady Mont  
ford's breathing was noisy and uneven, and 
there was an unhealthy grey pallor about 
her cheeks.     
 My lady," Sabina began, but there was 
no response.     
She took hold of the old lady's inert hand 
and cradled it in her own, biting her lip to 
force back her tears.     
 I fear you are correct, Sarah.    She is 
dreadfully ill this time.    Let us hope Doctor  
Lightbody is at home and can come with 
no delay, although I fear that there is little 
he can do, save bleed her again.    In the circumstances I think you had best send for 
Mister Jenkins, too."   
The maid cast the young viscountess a 
disbelieving look before covering her face 
with her apron and running from the room.     
Sabina sank down into a chair near the bed 
and prepared to keep a vigil there for as 
long as was necessary.     
Five   
The fashionable world was still in its bed 
when a carriage rumbled along the Strand.     
It came to a halt outside one of the inns of 
court.    As soon as the carriage steps were let 
down a diminutive figure clad in deepest 
black stepped out and into one of the chambers.     
Awaiting her was a plump man in a 
frizzed wig.    He bowed low before her.     
 Lady Montford, there really was no 
need for you to trouble; I should have been 
honoured to attend you at Montford House 
at any time you wished.    Indeed, I would 
have travelled to Brookfield, had you requested me to do so."   
As he ushered her to a chair Sabina threw 
back the heavy veil.     I wished to meet you 
here, Mister  ffortescue."   
He bowed slightly, asking,  May I offer 
you some refreshment, my lady?"   
Sabina stripped off her black gloves.     
 No, I thank you, sir.    Our discussion will   
take but a few minutes.     
He sat down behind a desk all but obliterated by a preponderance of legal documents.    The room was dimly lit and smelled 
overpoweringly musty.    Dust was every  
where and Sabina could well understand his 
reluctance to receive his aristocratic clients 
in his chambers.     
After clearing his throat Mister  fortescue ad  
dressed her once again.     I was most dis  
tressed and saddened to hear of the passing 
of the Dowager Lady Montford.    You have 
my sincere condolences, my lady."   
 Thank you, Mister  fortescue.    It was very 
peaceful and not entirely unexpected."   
He cleared hiss throat again before venturing,  I trust, my lady, I shall have the 
honour of continuing to administer your legal affairs."   
Sabina sat back in the chair.     That de  
pends, Mister  fortescue.    If you act for me as 
I wish I see no reason why you should not."   
 Naturally.    I shall act in your best inter  
ests, Lady Montford.    You have my word 
on that."   
Sabina smiled faintly.     I am gratified to 
hear you say so."   
 I trust that all matters pertaining to the   
late Lady Montford's will was made plain   
to you."   
 Nothing could be more plain, Mister  fortescue.    Her jewellery was left in trust for 
the use of her son's wife.    That will was made 
years ago.    I am quite certain my mother in  
law never intended me to wear the Montford 
sapphires and diamonds, or any other of her 
jewellery." The lawyer began to bluster and   
Sabina went on quickly,  However, that is 
of no account now.    I inherited the bulk of 
Montford property on the death of my husband.          
 Yes, yes, that is so,"   
 Therefore Lady Montford's will affects 
me little.    The fact is, Mister  fortescue, Brook  
field and its estates where I have been residing since the death of my husband is 
entailed to the male line."   
 That is indeed so." He laughed gruffly.     
 It is a common enough provision.    If that 
were not so some of the greatest estates and 
houses in the land would have passed into 
the hands of moneylenders and upstarts." 
He flushed and began to stammer.     Not 
that you "   
Sabina cut him off quickly as she sat for  
ward in the chair.     Mister  fortescue, there is 
no male line and never will be.    My husband 
was the last of the Montfords.    I have no 
child and even if I do have one in the 
future which is highly unlikely  that 
child cannot inherit Brookfield."   
  Only if the entail can be             
Sabina's eyes grew bright.     That is pre  
cisely what I wish you to do, Mister  fortescue.     
Break the entail."   
He looked startled.     But you said            
 I wish to sell the country estate so I am 
able to settle elsewhere.    I have no heart to 
run such a large estate even if I did secure 
the services of a good land steward." She 
got to her feet, drawing on her gloves once 
more.     If you can legally break the entail 
and enable me to sell Brookfield and its 
land, you will find me suitably grateful."   
He, too, got to his feet.     It can be done; 
I am sure of it.    There is no doubt there can 
never now be an heir." He smiled confidently.     Yes, Lady Montford, I shall see 
that it is done.    You may rely  on me, now 
and at any time in the future.     
Sabina smiled again before pulling down 
the veil.     Thank you, Mister  fortescue.    I shall 
look forward to hearing from you."   
He hurried towards the door so he could 
open it for her.     Should we succeed            
She smiled behind the veil.     I have every 
confidence that you will."   
 Indeed.    I have a notion how it might be 
achieved.    However, in that event the sale 
of Brookfield would render you an exceed  
ing wealthy woman, my lady."   
She drew a sigh, gazing past him into 
space.     Yes, Mister  fortescue, I know it, 
which is ironic, don't you think?    Had my 
husband lived, we should be existing in dun 
territory for the rest of our lives."   
The lawyer looked abashed.     Young 
Montford was a trifle wild, I dare say."   
 So I have discovered.    Good day to you, 
Mister  fortescue."   
The lawyer waited respectfully for the   
carriage to drive across the courtyard before   
hurrying back to his chambers to consult   
the various legal books and documents with 
no further delay.     
 Papa, I am delighted to see you looking so 
well."   
The Reverend Jenkins smiled with sat  
isfaction.     So I am, dear child, so I am."   
They were sitting in the living room of 
the very comfortable villa owned by Sabina's aunt.    Sabina was sitting on the window 
seat, her legs drawn up beneath her.    Her 
father sat by the roaring fire, gazing across 
the room at his daughter who looked pretty 
in a purple velvet gown.     
 Tunbridge Wells evidently agrees with 
you."   
He looked abashed.     Your aunt looks af  
ter me very well.    You, too, seem to have 
recovered your former good spirits.     
She sighed.     I am now a very wealthy 
young woman, Papa."   
He studied her carefully.     I can scarce 
believe it."   
 Brookfield is sold at a very advantageous 
price.    Mister  fortescue, the Montfords" lawyer, discovered, when he investigated the 
matter, that in the original provision if there 
is no male heir, its management with no 
conditions reverts to the current owner, 
which is me.    I am now free to do exactly as 
I please."   
 And what does it please you to do, 
child?"   
Suddenly she looked young and vulnerable.     I have scarce had an opportunity to 
think, Papa.    When Lady Montford died I 
just knew I could not bear to live alone at 
Brookfield for the rest of my life." She hesitated a moment before adding,  I suppose 
all the while I thought I would live with you 
again."   
Her father drew a sigh.     Surely that is 
not what you really wish to do, my dear, 
not now when you have so much."   
 Why not, Papa?    I would love to live here 
with you and Aunt Rose.    We can live in 
extreme comfort, may I add.    I have yet to 
sell the London house which, I am told, 
will also raise a considerable sum.    My needs 
are not great ones, so there will be more 
than enough for me to live on comfortably 
and I shall not need to seek a post as a 
companion to another lady."   
 You wish to be companion to Aunt Rose 
and myself."   
She smiled.     That is quite a different 
matter."   
 Dear child, do you really believe it is 
your fate to be companion to elderly people?     
You are young, beautiful and now, you tell 
me, wealthy, too."   
 I sold the estate because I didn't want 
it, Papa, not to obtain wealth to buy useless 
geegaws."   
 Nevertheless you do have that wealth, 
and a title.    You should take up your place 
in Society."   
She clasped her arms about her shoulders 
as if chilled.     No, Papa, that is a ludicrous 
suggestion.    There is no possibility of my 
doing so.    There is no place for me in So  
ciety."   
The Reverend Jenkins sighed again.     
 When I consented for you to become Lady 
Montford's companion it was not because I 
thought you would marry into her circle.     
Nothing of the kind entered my mind.    I 
did, however, hope that one day you would 
marry some respectable fellow."   
Sabina laughed harshly.     I did quite the 
reverse." She got up and went across the 
room, sinking down on her knees before 
him.     Thoughts of Toby have haunted me 
for a year, Papa.    I will always regret his 
death, but I know now had he lived, we 
would have, before long, become wretchedly 
unhappy together."   
He put his hand on her fair head which 
she rested on his knee.     I have known it 
longer than you.    Even as a child he rode 
roughshod around the county.    He was as 
wild a rake as can be imagined, and I fear 
it was not merely youthful spirits.    There 
was something deeply amiss in his character 
and from what you have told me it appears 
that it was no marriage, but somewhere   
there is a husband who is worthy of the 
title."   
She looked up at him, her eyes growing 
dark with dismay.     No, Papa.    I have no 
wish to become romantically involved with 
any man ever." After a moment's pause 
she went on,  If I was mistaken about Toby, 
how can I ever trust myself to judge a man's  
worth again?    It is far worse now; I believe 
Toby married me to outrage his peers, but 
in the future I shall always have to consider 
that I might be pursued for my wealth."   
Her father seemed to find the notion 
amusing.     I refuse to believe a man of any 
sensibility would consider a fortune above 
a sweet and kind disposition and a favourable countenance."   
She looked up at him again.     Papa, you 
are the most unworldly man I have ever 
known."   
 I have seen much of human nature in 
my calling, my dear.    It is you who has been 
unworldly.    It is my own fault, I own.    I 
wished to keep you the sweet innocent you 
have always been.    Living with me or visiting 
your aunt did not serve to prepare you for   
a tongue pad like Montford.    I can only be   
thankful he did actually marry you. "   
She cast him a reproachful look.     Oh,   
Papa, I would not have been so foolish as 
to settle for less."   
After a moment she drew away from him, 
staring into the flames of the fire which lit 
her cheeks with a rosy glow.     So you do 
not wish me to stay here with you and Aunt 
Rose."   
 Want you?    Oh yes, indeed I do; to have 
you with me again would be like enjoying 
summer all the year round, but I want what 
is best for you even more than that."   
 What is best for me is to be with you."   
 No, it is not.    You really cannot believe 
that.    Only think, child; one day your aunt 
and I will no longer be here and then what 
will be left for you alone, growing old with 
no opportunity for fulfilment?    Go now and 
take your rightful place in Society whilst 
you can.    Your aunt and I have already dis  
cussed the matter in full.    She will accompany you, for you need a chaperon."   
At last Sabina laughed,  Papa!    I am a 
married woman."   
 Nonetheless I would prefer you to have 
access to counsel should you require it.    If 
you had had wise counsel before your marriage            
Wryly she answered,  No doubt I should 
be living here with you and Aunt Rose "   
After a moment she asked,  Who will look 
after you if I agree to this madcap scheme?"   
 Your aunt's housekeeper is quite competent to cope with the needs of an old man 
who eats little in any event.     
Sabina rested her head on his knee once 
more.    Her eyes were awash with tears.     
 Very well; I shall go if you wish it, but do 
not blame me if I return before long."   
six   
 Oh,  tis so good to see you out of mourning 
clothes, my lady " Daisy exclaimed as she 
fastened her mistress into a gown of lavender silk.     
Sabina looked at herself askance in the 
cheval mirror.     If I am to be seen abroad 
here in London I needs must buy some more 
gowns.    Nothing I possess at present is 
suited to being seen.    In fact, you may gather 
up most of my clothes, choose what you 
want for yourself and then distribute them 
amongst the other servants.    I must discover 
the name of a good mantua maker.    If I am 
to buy new gowns I'd as lief have what is 
all the crack as something not quite fashionable." Her brow furrowed and then   
cleared.     Oh, I do recall someone of Lady 
Montford's acquaintance being gowned ex  
quisitely by a Madame Duvalle.    I shall send 
her a note immediately, but in the meantime 
this gown needs must suffice for this eve  
ning.    In any event I have no other."   
 You look very fetching, my lady, you 
may be certain."   
Sabina looked down at her dressing table 
where satin lined boxes filled with a dazzling array of jewellery were set out.     I shall 
feel quite odd wearing any of these," she 
murmured.     
 They are yours, my lady," the maid 
pointed out.     
 Yes, so they are." She sat down at the 
dressing table and first picked up a necklace 
of matched pearls which she held against 
her throat.     I wish I knew what was proper 
for a night at the theatre.    Lady Montford 
was always used to wear her sapphires and 
diamonds."   
 Then you must, ma'am.    The sapphires 
match the colour of your eyes."   
Sabina laughed and allowed her maid to 
fasten the magnificent necklace about her 
throat.    The diamonds winked and sparkled 
in the candlelight.    With her hair curled 
around her ears, a faint touch of rouge on   
her cheeks and lips, she marvelled at her 
own appearance.    Her wide blue eyes seemed 
very dark in the candlelight, her hair the 
colour of ripening corn.    Even wearing an 
outmoded gown she knew she was fit to take 
her place in any of the showplaces of the   
ton.     
 I wish I didn't feel so apprehensive 
about this evening, Daisy."   
 I cannot wait, my lady.    Never been to 
a theatre before; never been to London either.    I couldn't believe my ears or eyes when 
we arrived.    Have you ever seen or heard 
such a commotion?"   
 Tis very strange, I own, after living at 
Brookfield." She looked at Daisy through 
the mirror.     Do you mind not going back 
there?"   
 Not really, ma'am.    Not if I can stay with 
you."   
 Your services suit me well, but I would 
not for anything have you miss your family."   
 No, ma'am.    I'd rather be here with you.     
They'd never believe I was going to the theatre in London if I told them."   
Sabina got to her feet.     I know it is foolish 
for me to be apprehensive.    I have been to 
Drury Lane on many occasions before and   
I do so wish to see Mister Kean in Richard the 
Third so I cannot conceive why I should not 
go."   
 Quite right, ma'am, and you might be 
pleasantly surprised at your reception."   
Fleetingly Sabina recalled Lord Ashendon's declaration that she would be warmly 
received by the ton.    Although she could not 
envisage that happening, she did consider 
that it would be pleasant to be accepted by 
them as an equal, but as she had witnessed 
on so many occasions in the past it was im  
possible to predict who they would condescend to take up and which poor wretch 
would be snubbed.     
However, she did contrive to arrive at the 
theatre in Drury Lane late so as not to be 
seen by those members of the ton arriving 
at the same time.    Her aunt's usually pale 
features were also flushed with excitement 
as they travelled to the theatre, their way 
illuminated by running footmen bearing 
lighted torches.    The number of carriages 
thus accompanied in London made a fascinating sight for those unused to it.     
 Darkness scarce makes a difference 
here," Rose Newby declared as she gazed 
wide eyed out of the carriage window.     
Her tall, thin frame and rather severe features concealed a warm nature and a kind 
heart.    As she was both childless and a 
widow, her niece had always been dear to 
her, an affection reciprocated by Sabina her  
self.     
 I fear that my gown is a trifle outmoded 
from all I have seen since I arrived," Misses 
Newby complained a few moments later.     
It was, in fact, more than a little out  
moded, but Sabina assured her,  You look 
very fine, Aunt Rose."   
The curtain was just about to go up when 
Sabina's party was ushered into the box, 
permanently retained for the use of the 
Montford family.    The late dowager had 
been particularly fond of visits to the theatre, usually filling the box with a great 
many of her friends and acquaintances, not 
to mention those who visited her during the 
interval.    On this particular evening only Sabina, her aunt and maid occupied it.     
All around them the boxes were occupied 
by some of the most influential people in 
the country.    Even though she had occupied 
that box on numerous occasions in the past, 
Sabina still felt intimidated by the thought 
of being there on her own account.    Once 
the play had begun, however, she soon for  
got all else save the remarkable performance   
given by Edmund Kean, and she realised 
very quickly the reason why he had become 
the rage amongst theatre goers.    His acting 
was superb and even the bucks sitting in 
the pit were unusually quiet throughout the 
performance.     
When the first act ended to tumultuous 
applause, Sabina's apprehensions returned.     
This was the time when the social niceties 
were exchanged.    Some left their seats to 
mingle with friends and to take refreshments, whilst those who remained quizzed 
each other and visited adjoining boxes to 
relate the latest on dits.     
Sabina was soon aware that she was ex  
citing a good deal of interest.    Quizzing 
glasses were being raised in her direction, 
but no one called at the box to pay their 
respects and Sabina had no wish to leave it 
only to be snubbed at closer quarters.    As 
the interval progressed she became more 
and more discomforted, and then angry.     
Her anger, for some reason, was directed 
towards the absent Lord Ashendon who 
would have undoubtedly known the cool 
reception she would receive.    Indeed, a cool 
reception would have been welcome rather 
than this obvious snub.     
 What a remarkable performance," Misses   
Newby commented when the silence be  
came onerous.     
 Mister Kean has earned his fame."   
Daisy giggled from the back of the box.      
 Didn't understand a word he said, but   
 twas full of wonder."   
Sabina smiled faintly, for it seemed Daisy 
was the only person present who was truly 
enjoying the occasion.     
Misses Newby turned briefly to the maid  
servant to say in an unusually tart manner, 
which indicated her own unease,  You are 
not here to understand it, girl, but to attend 
your mistress.     
 Yes, ma'am," came the muted reply.     
When the footman announced Lord Am  
brose and Sir Godfrey Toone, Sabina almost 
started out of her seat.     
 Who are they?" Misses Newby asked in an 
urgent whisper.     
 Montford's cronies," her niece was able 
to reply.     
As those two gentlemen had acted as 
Toby's seconds in the duel which had re  
sulted in his death, they were not the most 
welcome visitors but she did consent to re  
ceive them.     
Both gentlemen were dressed in the 
height of fashion with silk knee breeches,   
well padded coats adorned with many gold 
seals and fobs, and highly starched shirt collars which scarcely enabled them to move 
their heads.     
 Lady Montford," Lord Ambrose 
greeted her.     I could scarce believe my eyes 
when they alighted upon you.     
 How nice to see you again," she re  
sponded with a coolness which belied her 
words.     
 You have met Sir Godfrey Toone?"   
She nodded.     This is my aunt, Misses 
Newby, who is at present residing with me 
in Mount Street." They nodded in the older 
lady's direction, casting her a curious glance 
at the same time, and then Sabina invited 
as an afterthought,  Won't you be seated, 
gentlemen?"   
Their arrival was a small salve to her in  
jured sensibilities, for it was certain to be   
noted.     
They sat down and Sir Godfrey said,  We 
had no notion you were in Town."   
 That is quite understandable, for I have 
been here but a short time."   
 The death of Lady Montford was a great 
misfortune," Lord Ambrose told her.     We 
heard of it in Paris so were unable to call   
and pay our respects as we would like to 
have done."   
Sabina's interest kindled.     Your condolences are welcome, but I had no notion you 
had been to Paris.    How famous!    It must 
seem odd to be able to visit  France once 
more."   
 Oh, yes indeed," Sir Godfrey answered, 
smiling oddly.     It is a fascinating city, I 
assure you, although I am informed by older 
persons who had the good fortune to visit 
before the Revolution it is not what it was 
then.    Of course, we cannot expect it to be."   
After a pause he added, almost mischievously,  You should contrive to visit Paris,   
my lady."   
 I should like to.    Montford spoke of it   
to me, before       
 Indeed," Sir Godfrey added, looking a 
mite discomforted.     
A moment later Sabina went on quickly, 
 You may know that Brookfield is sold and 
I live in London at present."   
They both appeared startled and she went 
on,  I had no wish to remain alone in such 
a large estate.    With Lady Montford gone 
there was nought to stop me leaving."   
The second act was about to begin.    Both   
gentlemen got to their feet although it appeared they were reluctant to leave.    Sabina 
gained the impression they would have liked 
to question her further.    Lord Ambrose's 
eyes strayed to her throat and the jewels 
which rested there.     
 Lady Montford," he began,  although 
we must take our leave of you now, I trust 
you will grant us permission to call upon 
you in Mount Street."   
As each bowed low over her hand she 
murmured,  Indeed."   
When they had gone Misses Newby said 
tartly,  A fine pair of popinjays."   
Sabina drew a sigh; knowing more about 
them than on her marriage she liked them 
even less than before, but at least they had 
not snubbed her.     
 We have some excellent silks arriving from 
France now," the mercer's  assistant in  
formed Sabina and her aunt as they examined the materials set out for their 
inspection the following afternoon.     
Madame Duvalle had called soon after 
Sabina's note had been delivered to her and 
agreed to accept her patronage.    She had recommended Harbinger's in the Strand for 
the materials and true enough there was a 
dazzling array from which to choose.    Bolts   
of jewel hued velvets, pale muslins and 
glowing silks had been set out for their ap  
probation.    However, Sabina contrived to 
exhibit no enthusiasm for any of them.     
 Really, my dear," Misses Newby scolded, 
 you must make a decision.    We cannot tarry 
here all day."   
 It is so difficult to make a choice, Aunt." 
Then, glancing at her, Sabina added,  I will 
be prudent and choose material for day 
gowns, for I doubt if I shall be receiving 
invitations to any routs or drums which re  
quire evening wear."   
 You must not allow yourself to be over  
set by what happened at the theatre.    It 
merely means that all those present are too 
top lofty by far."   
 That is what sets them apart." Sabina 
turned to the assistant as she pointed to sev  
eral bolts of velvet and heavy silks,  Have 
all those sent to Madame Duvalle."   
 But you have not chosen any material 
for evening gowns, my lady," the man told 
her in some dismay.     
 I do not require any."   
 Sabina," her aunt said in a cajoling 
voice,  you really should       
 In the event I become all the rage," she   
answered grimly,   I shall return to purchase 
more material."   
 Ah, but, my lady, we may not have such 
a fine selection," the mercer's assistant 
warned her.     
Sabina smiled grimly once again.     That 
is a gamble I am prepared to take."   
As they emerged into the Strand, Sabina 
drew on her gloves, saying,  Let us go now 
to Bond Street.    I need a good deal more and 
whatever I buy now will last me for years.     
 Do you think so, dear?     from all I have 
observed since I arrived clothing remains 
fashionable for a very short time."   
 That is nothing to me, was the reply, 
and Misses Newby glanced at her worriedly.     
Sabina soon purchased a good supply of 
silk stockings,  french gloves, lawn hand  
kerchiefs to be embroidered with the Mont  
ford crest, lace ribbons and several new 
bonnets.     
It was just as she emerged from the mil  
liners in Bond Street that she caught sight 
of Lord Ashendon across the road.    Appar  
ently he had come out of the Gentleman 
Jackson's Gymnasium.    He had been about 
to climb up to his curricle which was waiting 
outside the gymnasium, a pair of splendid 
greys being held by his tiger.     
Suddenly he caught sight of Sabina, too, 
and after appearing somewhat taken aback 
started forward.    As he dodged daringly be  
tween the carriages charging up and down 
the road, Sabina hurriedly made to get into 
her own carriage.     
 Lady Montford " he called as she was 
about to get inside.     
Reluctantly she stepped back on to the 
kerbside, eyeing him coldly as he took off 
his high crowned beaver hat.     
 Lady Montford, I was certain it must 
be you.    What a surprise!    Are you here for 
the Season?"   
 If by the Season you mean the Social 
round, I think you know that I am not.     
However, I am residing here for the present.     
My  aunt, Misses Newby, is residing with me."   
I am delighted to make your acquaintance, ma'am."   
Misses Newby looked a mite flustered as she 
bobbed a curtsey,  And I you, my lord."   
He had appeared somewhat dismayed by 
Sabina's cool reception but turned to her 
again.     I trust that I shall have the pleasure 
of seeing both you ladies at some of the 
functions at present taking place."           
 I doubt I would receive an invitation to 
any of them, but then," she added, unable   
to hide her bitterness,  you know that as 
well as I.    Do excuse us, Lord Ashendon, 
but we must go now."   
She climbed into the carriage followed by 
her aunt who cast him a bewildered smile.     
He was still there on the kerbside, staring 
after the carriage as it rumbled away to  
wards Mount Street.     
 Who was that?" Misses Newby asked.     
Affecting disinterest, her niece answered, 
 Did I not say?    The Earl of Ashendon."   
 I am bound to say he is quite a splendid 
fellow and, of course, I knew he was a 
gentleman of great consequence.    That much 
is very evident."   
Sabina did not reply but after a moment 
or two she turned to glance back to discover 
him staring after her, his tall figure receding 
into the distance, his curls teased by the cool 
wind.    It was an image which remained in 
her mind for some time to come.     
Seven   
Lord Ashendon climbed down from his curricle  outside a handsome building on Park 
Lane.    He handed the tiger the reins and 
went immediately inside.    The butler took   
 his lordship's caped driving coat, riding 
whip, gloves and hat, and immediately the 
earl went up a flight of wide marble stairs, 
taking them two at a time.     
At the top of the stairs a liveried footman 
admitted him to a large salon.    Marble pillars 
supported a gilt stucco ceiling from which 
plaster cherubs gazed down benignly on the 
assembled gathering.    Several people were 
already present, all laughing and enjoying   
their conversation.    Lord Ashendon was 
greeted by several of them and after ex  
changing pleasantries he went immediately 
across the room to where a woman was re  
clining upon a day bed.     
Clad in a loose white robe of    Au de Chine, a jewelled turban in her hair, she 
was the focus of everyone's attention and 
quite obviously she was revelling in it.    She 
was a handsome woman with a fine figure, 
and every piece of furniture and porcelain 
in the room reflected her excellent taste.     
As the earl approached she called,  Ash  
endon!    I thought you had abandoned me."   
 My dear, I'd as lief abandon my estates 
and title," he replied, raising her hand to 
his lips.     
He handed her a small box he had been   
carrying.     My favorite marchpane," she 
crooned.     You never forget."   
She handed the package to the page who 
stood behind the day bed.    A young lady who 
had been sitting nearby got up and went 
over to a harp which she began to play.     
 Misses Chetwynd plays so well," Madame 
Saint     Gilles said, eyeing the earl with some 
amusement.     
 Each to her own accomplishment," he 
replied in a soft voice which only she could 
hear.     
Just as he was about to seat himself a few 
yards away in an arm chair she patted the 
cushions of the day bed at her side.     Come 
sit by me and tell me why you have neglected me of late.    I have been devastated."   
 Devastated but not lonely, I trust, Marguerite."   
He did sit by her, adding,  I have been 
in the country.    Matters of business have 
delayed my return to Town."   
Her almond shaped eyes narrowed.     I 
had quite made up my mind that you favoured another.    Maria Chesney, per  
chance."   
She gave him a speculative look and he 
laughed softly.     All other women pale by 
comparison to you, my dear Marguerite."   
It was her turn to laugh, a throaty chuckle 
which was considered by those who knew 
her to be attractive.     You are a plausible 
liar, Ashendon, but it is a part of your 
charm.    It is as well that I know you for the 
tongue pad you undoubtedly are."   
She reached out to take a piece of march  
pane from a dish at her side as Misses Chet  
wynd finished playing her piece.    Everyone 
applauded politely and then they began a 
general conversation.    The earl sat back, 
crossed his legs and occasionally contrib  
uted a laconic remark when called upon.     
Eventually, one by one, the other visitors 
took their leave, although the earl made no 
move to go.     
When only he and Marguerite Saint Gilles 
remained in the room he got to his feet, went 
to where a tray of wine decanters was set 
out and filled two glasses with claret.     
 When you are come to visit I wish only   
for everyone else to leave as quickly as possible," Madame Saint Gilles told him.     
He looked amused as he cast her a glance.     
 How flattering; some of the greatest wits 
in the land form a part of your salon."   
He handed one of the glasses to her and 
she raised it mockingly.     To old friends; 
may they always remain true.     
After taking a sip, the earl walked slowly 
towards the fireplace and stood with his 
back towards the roaring flames, the glass 
in his hand.     Well, Marguerite, what is new 
in Town since I last visited?"   
She looked somewhat surprised at his 
question.     Precious little."   
 An amazing admission for you, my dear.     
After my abominable rustication I am long  
ing to learn all the latest on dits."   
 How odd," she mused, contemplating 
her glass with great interest,  you was never 
used to enjoy on dits.    Tattle bored you."   
 You are mistaken, my dear, for who in 
this Town does not enjoy hearing the latest 
tattle?"   
Languidly she answered,  Everyone 
comes to me for the latest gossip.    I cannot   
conceive why."   
 Because no one learns it as quickly as 
you, Marguerite," he teased and she smiled.     
 If it really is of interest to you, Ashen  
don, I may as well tell you that I learned 
only today  Fances Pringle has already 
thrown her cap over the windmill for 
Crudman this time.    Is he not old enough to 
be her papa?"   
 And as close as wax.    She'll not settle for 
him."   
 he should marry the woman  and put us all  out of our misery." The earl eyed her with indulgence as 
she went on,  Alderley caused a sensation 
at White's yesterday, so I am told.    He lost 
fifteen thousand guineas during the evening 
and then left for the morning packet to 
France!    I've a mind to go there myself."   
 To  France, Marguerite?"   
 Why not?    Paris was always so gay.     
Pierre was for ever singing its praises to me 
and now Boney is gone to Elba so many 
people are going to France again."   
 Do you really wish to go?"   
 Indeed." She frowned.     However, I 
should miss you, unless you wished to accompany me."   
He laughed.    "  Tis impossible at present.     
She sighed.     Ah well, I shall think on it 
a while longer; the Season here is scarce 
begun and I have no mind to miss all which 
is happening here."   
 Which is not a great deal," he answered 
dryly.     
 True, but I would miss you."   
  And all your other admirers, " he teased 
and she laughed.     
 Naturally.    Oh, by the by, there is a little on dit which might interest you.    You   
were acquainted, I think, with poor Mont  
ford."   
Lord Ashendon drained the glass, re  
placed it on the table and looked at her with 
interest.     Slightly."   
 It is indeed odd that you should say so, 
for I was persuaded you became a crony of 
his last Season, although I own you and he 
had little in common."   
 Quite."   
 Well, I am given to understand that his 
widow is come to Town."   
 That is no news to me, for I caught sight 
of her in Bond Street today."   
She gave a gasp of exasperation.     Then 
you should have told me.    What a tasty scandal that was  ."   
 I hardly think so.    The fellow is dead, 
his bride a   
 Oh, Ashendon, their names were on 
everyone's lips for the best part of a sen'night.     
It was the excitement of the Season.    Only 
think, he married his mother's companion.     
Trust Montford.    He must have thought it 
a great lark to marry such a creature.     
Lord Ashendon gazed at her steadily.     
 He might well have held her in fond re  
gard."   
Marguerite Saint Gilles laughed delightedly.     
 Not Toby Montford!    His taste, I fear, was 
always for the more exotic." She looked 
thoughtful.     I seem to recall seeing her 
now, with Lady Montford.    An insignificant 
little chit, if I recall correctly, but she had 
the most appealingly blue eyes.    I remember 
thinking that if she were gowned well, she 
could look quite tolerable." She looked up 
at him.     I suppose she was crying roast meat 
now she has inherited everything.    She has 
sold Brookfield, you know.    It would have 
fetched a great price.     
He looked thoughtful for a moment be  
fore answering,  I didn't know about the 
sale.    Lady Montford was in a rather dour 
mood and not at all communicative.    She did 
not look to me to be rejoicing in her im  
proved fortunes. "   
She held out the glass for him to refill 
and when he had done so she said,  Per  
chance that is because of what happened last 
night at the theatre. "   
His eyes narrowed.     What are you talking 
about?"   
She chuckled.     You have been rusticating, haven't you?"   
 Did I not tell you so?" he answered 
darkly.     
Ignoring his bad humour she went on, 
 You did ask, Ashendon."   
 Because I wish to keep abreast of the 
news."   
 Well, it appears from all I have been 
told that she attended Drury Lane last night 
with no great success.    Everyone is talking 
about it today.    Only Toone and Ambrose 
 spoke to her.    I'll warrant she does not realise 
what reprobates they are.    Social success 
cannot be measured by the attention of two 
penniless rakes.    I wonder if the new Lady 
Montford knows that?"   
The earl stared at her thoughtfully and 
she gave him an adoring smile.     And whilst 
we are on the subject of Montford, Warrender called in this morning." Lord Ash  
endon frowned and she went on,  He has 
lately returned from Paris and told me, 
amongst other matters, an odd tale which I 
cannot credit as the truth."   
The earl looked at her with interest and 
she patted the cushions at her side.    After 
only a moment's hesitation he joined her on 
the day bed once more.    Moving close to him 
she began to whisper in his ear.     
After a moment, when he made no comment, she said,  Why do you not answer?     
You are as mute as a fish.    Tis not at all like   
you."   
  Tis merely that I am in agreement with 
you; it is all a nonsense."   
He got to his feet and she gazed up at   
him in some dismay.    Ashendon?"   
He cast her one of his most charming 
smiles.    Forgive me for leaving so soon, but 
I have a further call to make and it will not 
wait."   
She uttered an oath that was far from 
lady like, which caused him to grin.    Who 
is she?" Marguerite Saint Gilles demanded.    
 Tell me who she is.   I demand to know 
who has taken my place in your  affections."              
His eyebrows rose a little and she had the 
grace to look abashed.    My dear Marguerite, what gives you the right to demand 
such information of me?"   
 You must forgive me.   I am remiss, but 
I cannot help my jealous nature."   
 I have much more cause to be jealous of 
all those attending you when I am   
 That is very satisfactory, she replied, 
appearing more mollified.    It pleases me to 
think you suffer a little of the agony I do."   
 Marguerite," he said cajolingly,  I go 
to see Lady Sefton."   
Taken aback, she cried,  But she is.    
 My Godmother, in fact."   
Madame Saint Gilles let out a long breath.    
 She has cut me on many an occasion."   
 Naturally.   She is a very great lady and 
sees you as, perhaps, a bar to my becoming 
leg shackled to some insipid heiress.    
 She is top lofty."   
 I agree that she has a great regard for 
her own consequences, but of far more im  
portance, she is exceeding fond of me.   Au 
revo r, Marguerite."   
Madame Saint Gilles did not reply; she 
merely threw one of the satin cushions at 
his head but it only hit the closing door as 
he left the room.    
Sabina stared at the tapestry she had been 
working.   There was no sound to be heard 
other than the loud ticking of the ormolu 
clock on the mantel. Several days had passed since the disastrous visit to the theatre.   Sabina had not left 
the house since and no one had called, not 
even to leave a card.   All Misses Newby's en  
treaties for her to take the air had fallen on 
unhearing ears.   Sabina recalled very well 
the number of cards which appeared as soon 
as it was known that Lady Montford was in 
residence, followed by invitations too numerous to accept.   The slight accorded her 
could not have been more plain.    
She wondered how soon she could de  
cently leave London and retire to Tun  
bridge Wells.   If her father still insisted that 
she be in London although she doubted 
he would.  she would buy a house nearby 
her aunt's.   As soon as the thought passed 
through her mind it was almost definitely 
decided, but then the butler announced the 
arrival of a visitor which cast the matter 
from her mind for the moment.    
 Who is it?" she asked in a small voice.    
 Lord Ambrose, ma'am."   
Her aunt was resting in her room and 
Sabina debated silently whether to receive 
him or not and then, recalling that she did 
not need a chaperon, issued the order for 
him to be shown in I trust I do not intrude at an inconvenient time," he greeted her, glancing around 
the room as if to seek out some other person.    
 No, Lord Ambrose," she answered 
dryly, putting down her tapestry,  you do 
not.   Pray be seated."   
To her surprise he had with him a rather 
handsome dog which she immediately ad  
mired.    
 His name is Henri and I brought him   
back with me from France after a recent 
visit."   
 So you told me on our earlier meetings."   
 I had hoped to see you abroad since 
then, my lady.   It is a great disappointment 
to me that I did not.   I only hope that neither 
you or Misses Newby have been indisposed."   
 No, I thank you.   We are both in robust 
health.   No one has lived in this house for 
almost a year, so I have been obliged to 
devote myself to putting it to rights."   
 Evidently that is achieved."   
 Both the late Lady Montford and myself 
lost heart after Montford died.   Both houses 
and the estate suffered, but if I am to live 
here I needs must make it comfortable."   
There was a moment's silence before he 
said,  Mention of Montford always makes 
me wretched, my lady."   
 You must not worry on my account.    
Mention of his name does not distress me."   
  Tis not that, although I do, of course, 
have great consideration for your sensibilities.   I cannot help but feel guilty that I did 
not do more to prevent Montford's foolish  
ness that night."   
 I have always felt that, too, Lord Am  
brose."   
He looked discomforted at her plain    
speaking.    Montford was ever a scape grace, 
ma'am.   Perchance you knew it to be so.    
There was no turning him from what he 
wished to do."   
 And I do not doubt he never imagined 
he had a chance of losing the duel."   
Lord Ambrose's eyes slid away from hers 
and she went on,  Lord Ambrose, I beg of 
you not to feel undue guilt.   I'd have more 
hair than wit if I didn't accept that he should 
have preferred to be with me than in some 
Covent Garden gambling hell.   In the grief 
I felt at the time I was ready to blame every  
one but myself.   In the event I believe only 
Montford was to blame, for we are all masters of our own fate.   I implore you not to 
let it plague you any longer."   
He smiled.    You are very gracious.    
 Since the death of the dowager Lady 
Montford, I have had to face up to a great 
many truths, my lord.   As you must realise 
I have a good deal of time on which to ponder upon my situation.   It is not an enviable 
one.   I am not fitted for either my own class 
or the one into which I married."   
 Montford would be grieved to hear you 
say so."   
At this she smiled.    Then it is as well he 
cannot know of it."   
Looking discomforted he asked quickly, 
 What are your plans for the future, my 
lady?   I trust that you do not deem me im  
pertinent for asking, only as your late husband's closest friend I do hope you will 
allow me to act as confidante and, per  
chance, adviser."   
As he gazed at her questioningly Sabina 
suspected that he had come to question her 
closely, although she could not think why 
her plans were of any interest to him beyond 
politeness.    
Something made her cautious and she re  
plied,  I intend to remain here for a while 
longer, I believe."   
He smiled.    I had feared that you would 
return to the country."   
She looked puzzled.    Feared it, Lord 
Ambrose?"   
He appeared embarrassed.    It is such a 
pleasure that you are here in London, and 
yet I am fully aware you prefer to rusticate."   
 I cannot in any event return to Brook  
field."   
 Allow me the liberty of saying that your 
circumstances would allow you to go any  
where you please."   
 Indeed, and I shall remain here until I 
am able to decide."   
He got to his feet, seemingly satisfied, 
and the dog also got up on all fours.    I trust 
that we shall meet again very soon, Lady 
Montford."   
She nodded.    Lord Ambrose."   
Soon after he had gone Daisy sought her 
out with the information that a servant of 
Madame Duvalle had delivered the first of 
the gowns she had ordered.   Sabina hurried 
to her room to inspect them and found Ma  
dame Duvalle's reputation to be fairly 
earned.   Each gown was exquisite and worth 
its high cost.    
Sabina inspected each of them in turn, 
but glanced doubtfully at the evening 
gowns, each embroidered and delicately be  
jewelled.    
 I wish I had not allowed Madame Du  
valle to persuade me to have so many eve  
ning gowns.   She just could not understand 
why I shall not need them, and I own that 
it was impossible for me to fully explain the 
matter to her.    
 I am persuaded you will have many oc  
casions to wear them, ma'am," Daisy as  
sured her.    As soon as it is generally known 
that you're in London invitations are bound 
to arrive."   
Sabina laughed disbelievingly and then   
mused,  The blue velvet looks all the crack.    
I've a mind to put it on now and go out in 
the carriage."   
 Yes, do, ma'am," Daisy urged.    You've 
not been out for days.   The air will do you 
good.   Shall I rouse Misses Newby to accompany you?"   
 There is no need to trouble.   Your company will suffice on this occasion, for I shall 
not be out for long."   
Daisy soon fastened her mistress into the 
gown.   She held out the matching fur lined 
pelisse and then Sabina tied on the feathered 
bonnet.    
Daisy beamed with pleasure as she stood 
back.    Oh, my lady, you look as fine as the 
greatest lady in the land."   
The fashionable young woman who 
stared back at Sabina from the mirror came 
as a shock.   Madame Duvalle had done her 
best which was miraculous.   Sabina knew 
she did look as fine as anyone she was likely 
to encounter, but felt bound to say,  What 
I look like is of no account.   Birth is every  
thing." She turned to look at her maid.    I 
expect I shall be moving to Tunbridge Wells 
very soon, Daisy.   I shall not remain here 
for much longer."   
 Oh, no, ma'am.   Don't say so.   You came 
with such high hopes."   
 Not I, Daisy.   Not I.   In any event I wish 
to be near my father and I am quite per  
suaded Misses Newby will be glad to be home 
again."   
 Tunbridge Wells is so unfashionable, 
ma'am."   
Sabina laughed as she picked up the 
gloves and reticule her maid had put out for 
her.    That's another of its attractions, 
Daisy.   Now fetch your cloak and let us be 
gone before I change my mind about going 
out after all."   
The girl turned on her heel and ran out 
of the room.   Sabina smiled as she watched 
her go and then, drawing a sigh, followed.    
Eight   
Hyde Park at that hour was crowded with 
the fashionable world, out to see each other 
and to be seen.   Some rode in splendid carriages, a great many were on horseback and 
others walked.   The pace was a slow one, 
for everyone stopped at frequent intervals 
to speak to an acquaintance, to admire a   
particularly fashionable bonnet or even a 
newly acquired horse.    
Sabina had not intended actually to ride 
in the Park.   Avoiding public rebuffs had 
been her prime objective of late, but the 
driver had assumed the Park was her destination and took her there without question.    
 Fanshawe, I didn't ask you to drive me 
into the Park " she cried when the carriage 
turned off the road and joined the throng.    
 Beg pardon, my lady, but I thought you 
did."   
 My instructions cannot have been clear 
enough, but I wish us to leave immediately."   
 Can't turn the carriage here, my lady.    
We'll have to drive on to the next gate."   
It was true.   To her chagrin the path was 
far too crowded to do any other than drive 
very slowly forwards.   Sabina sank back into 
the squabs and stared ahead, aware that the 
slow passage of her particular carriage was 
attracting a good deal of attention.   The 
portly figure of the Prince Regent was immediately recognisable as he rode past in a 
high perch phaeton with one of his dandi  
fied cronies at his side.   Sabina recognised 
many other people who were either riding   
or walking, but few acknowledged her and 
those who did scarcely inclined their heads 
in her direction.   Within her fur lined muff 
Sabina's hands were clenched together 
tensely.    
The few hundred yards to the exit seemed 
as if it were endless miles.   Sabina stared 
ahead and was all the while aware of the 
whispers which were directed towards her 
together with many curious looks.   What she 
was not aware of were the great number of 
admiring glances from young Corinthians 
showing off their expensive horses.    
Suddenly the carriage ground to a halt.    
Sabina looked out of the window in alarm 
to see a barouche draw up at its side.   The 
door bore an escutcheon she could not recognise but the splendour of the carriage 
proclaimed it to be the bearer of someone 
of great consequence.   A few moments later 
when the steps were let down a lady in a 
feathered bonnet climbed down.    for a moment or two Sabina gazed at her blankly 
and then, with a start, recognised one of her 
late mother in law's acquaintances, Lady 
Sefton, who happened to be one of the most 
influential of the Society hostesses.   She and 
a few others decreed who and what was ac  
ceptable in polite Society.   Without their ac    
knowledgment no one could be a social 
success.    
Sabina sat uneasily waiting for her to 
pass, but to her alarm the lady came towards 
her instead, smiling a greeting.    My dear 
Lady Montford!   How nice it is to see you.    
I had intended to call upon you but you 
have been kind enough to save me the effort."   
For a moment Sabina was struck dumb 
with surprise, and then she climbed down 
from the carriage, watched by a good many 
others.    
 How do you do, Lady Sefton.  she 
asked politely, giving a deep curtsey.    
 It is good to see you looking in such fine 
heart after the misfortunes of the past year.    
You have borne them well, I am bound to 
say."   
 Thank you, my lady."   
Her mind was in a whirl, for she could 
not imagine why this grand lady had singled 
her out for attention when almost every 
other person in the Park would have given 
half their family jewels for the honour.    
 You have not been seen abroad even 
though you are out of mourning."   
 I have been here for only a short while."   
 Well, now you are settled in, you must   
indulge in some social activity.   You will re  
ceive an invitation to my drum very shortly, 
but before that no doubt you will be at  
tending the ball at Almack's on Wednes  
day."   
 Almack's?" Sabina gasped, hardly 
knowing how to answer her.    
She would as lief climb a mountain in her 
bare feet as attempt entry to that exclusive 
circle.    
Lady Sefton laughed deprecatingly.    My 
dear Lady Montford, how foolish of me to 
mention it.   If you have not ventured out to 
any degree I don't suppose you will have 
had an opportunity to procure vouchers.    
Have no fear on that score, for it shall be 
my pleasure to send vouchers to your house.    
Mount Street, is it not?"   
  Yes, it is, my lady, but      
Lady Sefton raised one gloved hand to 
forestall any further comment.    We shall 
converse further when we meet again.   Good 
afternoon, Lady Montford."   
 Good afternoon, my lady."   
Belatedly as the woman climbed back into 
her waiting carriage Sabina curtseyed.   Lady 
Sefton raised her hand in salute as the carriage set off again.   When Sabina glanced 
around it seemed that the onlookers were   
as amazed as she was herself.   When the carriage was gone at last she gathered up her 
skirts and climbed back into the carriage.    
 A very fine lady," Daisy said, wide  
eyed.    Top lofty, too, it seemed."   
 Top lofty " Sabina exclaimed as her carriage set off again.    Lady Sefton is as in  
fluential as anyone you are like to mention.    
I cannot conceive why she condescended 
even to speak to me, let alone offer me entry 
to Almack's."   
Daisy smiled.    She is obviously a lady of 
very good sense."   
 It seems very odd to me.   I don't believe 
I shall ever understand the conventions of   
the ton."   
As the carriage made its way towards the 
gate several riders raised their hats to her 
and some of the ladies nodded in her direction, too.   Sabina sank back into the squabs 
chuckling softly.    
 If Lady Sefton sends me a voucher to 
Almack's, Daisy, it will serve all of them 
right if I actually decided to go."   
True to her word Lady Sefton did send Sabina vouchers which would enable her and 
her aunt to attend that most exclusive bastion of the beau monde.    
And in the wake of that lady's public ac  
knowledgment of her several calling cards 
were left at Mount Street in addition to a 
number of invitations to various diversions.    
 How fickle Society can be," she con  
fided to her aunt who was busy at her em  
broidery.   Sabina read each card and 
invitation aloud before putting it to one 
side.    I don't believe I shall accept any of 
them."   
Her aunt peered over her wire rimmed 
eyeglasses.    If you take such a course of 
action I am bound to say you will cause 
yourself to be in even more demand, my 
dear.   There will be a veritable scramble to 
secure your presence and wagers will be 
made as to the likelihood of your arriving." 
Sabina chuckled and then Misses Newby went 
on,  Lady Sefton of all people!   You could 
scarce reach higher than that lady.   Next you 
must aspire to be invited to Holland House.    
No!   Carlton House." She chuckled.    How 
I wish I had been with you in the Park."   
 What I wish for most is to retire to Tun  
bridge Wells with you and Papa."   
 Tush," was her aunt's only remark.    
Moments later the butler came to an  
nounce a caller.   Sabina was startled, her   
aunt delighted.    I believe that this is only 
the beginning."   
 Of what?" her niece demanded.    
 Of your social eminence."   
It was Sabina's turn to say,  Tush," and 
then, turning to the butler,  Who is it?"   
The butler looked disdainful.    Another lady, ma'am.   She has no calling card, I'm 
afraid, and she declares herself to be a Misses 
Henderson.   Shall I inform her you are un  
available, ma'am?"   
Sabina exchanged blank looks with her 
aunt before saying,  I may as well see her 
although I cannot recall having met her be  
fore.   The name is quite unfamiliar."   
 If I may be permitted to say so, ma'am, 
she is not in the front rank of Society in my 
opinion."   
Sabina put down the Ladies" Magazine 
which she had been attempting to read and 
got to her feet.     That does not in the least 
surprise me.   No one in the haute monde 
is likely to visit us.   Show her into the library, 
Melrose.   I shall receive her there."   
 Yes, my lady."   
When he had gone Sabina went to peer 
into a mirror, patting in a few stray hairs.    
As she did so her aunt paused once again   
in her sewing to give her a long, searching 
look.    
 My dear, I do wish you would be more 
enthusiastic about being in London.     
 Aunt Rose, you know very well I had 
no wish to come out into Society.   I am not 
fitted to do so.   The social life in Tunbridge 
Wells would have suited me far better.   Here 
I am obliged to show due deference to top  
lofty ladies who look down their long noses 
at me."   
Misses Newby chuckled.    Your pride is 
hurt because they do not grease your boots."   
 I would not have anyone do that for any  
thing.    Tis merely that I do not wish to be 
a toad eater."   
 You have never been that, nor ever will 
be." The woman sighed.    You have all your 
Mama's pride, I fear."   
 I can only be glad of it," Sabina replied, 
her eyes flashing blue fire.    I recall that she 
was exceeding happy in her life as a vicar's 
wife.   I do not remember her ever wishing 
for more."   
 That is only because she was content 
with the man she married.   You are not 
meant for rustic pursuits.   Your papa and I 
both recognise that."   
 It is evident to me that you both have 
no notion what is good for me.    
 One of the most vexing aspects of one's 
life is that it is impossible to go back and 
live it again."   
 Would you do so if you could, Aunt?" 
Sabina asked in some surprise.    
 Not I, my dear.   However, your dear 
papa does admit his error in allowing you 
to become companion to Lady Montford.    
That is all, but there is nought to be done 
to mend it now.   You are Lady Montford 
and because of that you have the opportunity of forming an excellent match.   You 
must make the most of that opportunity.    
Sabina's momentary irritation had passed 
and she looked askance at her aunt.    Aunt 
Rose!   The Corinthians of this town will only 
marry into their own circle."   
 Which is precisely where you are, and 
you are well breeched, too!   You have no 
notion how eligible you are."   
As Sabina went towards the door she said, 
 It would not do to keep Misses Henderson 
waiting.   Ladies of the beau monde, if she is 
one of them, are so full of their own consequence."   
Just as she was about to leave the room   
Aunt Rose added,  I am persuaded Lord 
Ashendon isn't top lofty at all."   
Sabina pretended she hadn't heard that 
last remark.   In fact, the way Aunt Rose had 
taken a liking to one of Montford's old 
friends irritated her a great deal although 
she strove not to show it on the frequent 
occasions that his name was brought into 
the conversation.    
The lady who awaited her in the library 
certainly was not one of the influential matrons of the ton, just as Sabina had sus  
pected.   Misses Henderson was standing in the 
centre of the room, a diminutive figure no 
taller than Sabina herself.   One glance 
showed Sabina why Melrose had appeared 
so disdainful about the visitor.   The woman's clothes were neat but shabby, and when 
Sabina came into the room she started visibly.   After a moment's hesitation, as an af  
terthought, she curtseyed.    
Sabina shut the door with a decided snap.    
 Misses Henderson, I believe."   
 Sorry to disturb you, ma'am, really I 
am."   
As Sabina came further into the room she 
could see that Misses Henderson was, in fact, 
extremely young, scarcely more than eigh  
teen or nineteen years old, she guessed.   She   
was rather pretty although her face bore the 
signs of strain and worry.    
 Won't you sit down?" Sabina invited, 
indicating one of the leather easy chairs, and 
the girl did so as soon as Sabina had seated 
herself.    
 I don't believe we have met before," she 
ventured as Misses Henderson fingered her 
moth eaten muff in a nervous way.    
 No, my lady, we  aven't.   It's very good 
of you to see me," she added, gazing around 
in awe.   She looked at Sabina again.    Does 
me name not mean anything to you, my 
lady?"   
Mystified, Sabina shook her head and 
then smiled in an embarrassed way.    I have 
not long been in London, so perchance it 
was my late mother in law you wished to 
see."   
 No, my lady," she swallowed.    It was 
young Lord Montford's wife I wanted to 
see."   
She was obviously experiencing a good 
deal of embarrassment and realising it at 
last, Sabina stiffened with outrage.    Misses 
Henderson, am I to take it you were ac  
quainted with my late husband?"   
The girl's eyes opened wide.    Not ex  
actly, my lady." She averted her eyes then.    
 My husband was the man involved in a 
duel where Lord Montford was.           killed."   
Sabina's hands tightened around the arms 
of her chair.   All in all, she thought she 
would have preferred this girl to have been 
one of Montford's lightskirts.    
 I see," she breathed at last.    
There were tears in the other girl's eyes.    
 This is a terrible shock for you, my lady."   
 Yes, yes it is.   I had not given a thought 
to the other man." She looked at Misses Hen  
derson then to see that she was biting her 
lip.    Why have you come?"   
 I know this is the last place I should 
come, but there's nowhere else.   Bill, you 
see, never touched pistols before.   I can't 
imagine how it happened."   
 I cannot tell you it was ill fortune, Misses 
Henderson, for you have your husband and 
mine is dead."   
 Bill isn't a bad man, my lady; I'll have 
you know that.   He's just weak.   He likes his 
gin, he does and when he's foxed he gambles.   He fights, too, but I can't believe he'd 
deliberately kill."   
Sabina felt numb.    Is that what he says?"   
Misses Henderson blew into a handkerchief 
and it was plain that the conversation was 
affecting her even more than Sabina.    Bill   
ain't said anything.   Took off, he did, just 
after the duel.   I haven't seen him since."   
Shaken anew Sabina said,  Well, I am 
very sorry about that, Misses Henderson, 
but.    
 That's why I'm here, my lady.   It's the 
kids, y'see.   We've no money now at all.   I 
take in washing whenever I can, but it's not 
enough to buy food, and it's cold now.    
There's no money to buy even a candle to 
lighten the dark."   
 How many children do you have?"   
 Just the two, my lady.   No more than 
babes, they are.   That's what I don't under  
stand.   Bill, he had his faults, but he loves 
his kids.   I can't understand why he 
wouldn't come back now, or even send us 
some money.    Tisn't like him."   
Thoughtful, Sabina got to her feet.    I 
agree that there can be no reason for him 
not to come back after all this time, and it 
seems your misfortune is greater than mine 
after all."   
 Odd, isn't it?   Seein" it was his lordship 
who copped it.   I've never been able to un  
derstand that."   
Sabina went to the desk and drew out a 
small purse which she handed to the 
woman.    Take this.   It is only a small   
amount but it will enable you to buy food 
for your children immediately.   I shall arrange to have more sent to you in due course.    
The woman's demeanour immediately 
brightened.    Lord bless you, my lady.   I 
didn't truly believe you'd help us.   Wouldn't 
blame you if you turned me out with nothin" 
like the gentleman did."   
Sabina's eyes narrowed.    What gentle  
man, Misses Henderson?"   
 I never did intend to come here, to trouble you, my lady.   I went to the gentleman 
who came to see me just after          " Sabina 
moved closer, watching her intently all the 
while.    Lord Ambrose, he said he was."   
 Lord Ambrose came to see you?"   
 After it happened.   He told me Bill had 
gone for good, he did, and he had, hadn't 
he?"   
 How did Lord Ambrose know that?"   
She shrugged.    He said Bill'd swing if he 
was caught.   The likes of my Bill would've 
no say against the Quality, would he?   No 
wonder he took off.   The Lord only knows 
where he is now.   Daren't come back for fear 
of the law."   
Sabina was thoughtful again.    I doubt if 
he would escape punishment, for duelling   
is against the law, but I don't believe for 
one moment he would hang."   
 He killed a lord, my lady, so no wonder 
he don't come home."   
 You said that you called to see Lord 
Ambrose recently."   
 Yes, I did.   He seemed well breeched 
and he had been kind to me before, but this 
time he wouldn't see me.   Can't blame him.    
I didn't think you would see me either."   
Sabina sighed.    My husband was no innocent, Misses Henderson.   I dare say he was 
equally to blame."   
 You're too good and kind to say so, my 
lady."   
Sabina went towards the door.    My but  
ler will show you out, Misses Henderson.    
There will be no cause for you to call again.    
Arrangements for an allowance to be paid 
to you will be made by my bank."   
 Oh, how shall I ever thank you?"   
There were tears in her eyes again and 
Sabina looked away from her.    There will 
be no need."   
She looked about to say something more 
but then seemed to think better of it.   She 
merely curtseyed and then hurried away, 
watched by Sabina who felt suddenly chill.    
Nine  
 The wind tore at Sabina's riding hat as her 
horse thundered across the fields of Hyde 
Park, startling the cattle which were quietly 
grazing there.   Behind, Sabina's groom was 
making a valiant effort to keep up with her, 
but failing, for her mount was a new one, 
a grey mare which had cost her dear at Tattersall's.    
Owning a thoroughbred horse had always 
been a dream to Sabina and when it suddenly occurred to her that she could now 
easily afford the purchase of one she hesitated only a short while.    
The visit of the wretched Misses Henderson 
had shaken her, and not solely because of 
the woman's situation.   The reminder of the 
sordid and humiliating events which had 
given her such wealth and freedom was not 
welcome.   The marriage had been over be  
fore it was even begun, and of late she 
thought about it only with great reluctance.    
That green girl, so besotted with her hand  
some buck, seemed to be quite another person.   Never again, she vowed, would she be 
so naive.    
Although it was much earlier than the 
fashionable hour, there were a number of 
other riders in the Park.   Some had paused 
to watch her admiringly, but she was not 
certain whether their esteem was directed 
towards the horse or herself.    
The ride had served to exorcise some of 
her disturbing thoughts and she slowed the 
horse to a canter as it approached one of the 
paths.   Tattersall's was a reputable dealer in 
horse flesh but even so she could not, in her 
ignorance, be certain they had not sold her 
a daisy cutter.   Now she knew they had not 
and she leaned forward to pat the mare's 
neck.    
The mare cantered along, glad of the respite, as was the groom who caught up with 
her at last.   Several bucks who passed raised 
their hats to her and she graciously inclined 
her head to them, biting back a chuckle.    
Soon all thoughts of Misses Henderson began 
to recede from her mind and she was aware 
only of the pleasure of her ride.    
A lady and a gentleman, each on a mag  
nificent horse, were coming towards her.    
The lady Sabina did not recognise although 
she did admire her elegant style.   Sabina was 
so interested in her that she did not at first 
realise her companion was Lord Ashendon,   
and was none too pleased when he stopped 
to speak to her.    
 Lady Montford."   
She nodded her head.    Lord Ashendon."   
 Allow me to present a dear friend of 
mine, Madame Saint Gilles."   
Sabina affected a stiff smile.    Madame Saint 
Gilles."   
 How opportune this is," the woman de  
clared.    I have been longing to make your 
acquaintance, my lady."   
 Indeed, ma'am, I fear you are roasting 
me."   
 I assure you she is not," the earl told 
her.    
Sabina's cheeks grew pink and Margue  
rite Saint Gilles went on,  Such misfortunes 
as you have suffered so young, are bound 
to invite interest, my lady." She glanced at 
her companion and cast him a wry smile.    
 Lord Ashendon is most interested in your 
welfare."   
At this disclosure Sabina's cheeks grew 
even more pink as the earl pointed out,  I 
feel that I owe it to Montford to concern 
myself with his widow's welfare.   I trust, 
Lady Montford, that Misses Newby is in good 
health?"   
 She is, my lord, and will be honoured 
to know of your concern."   
He seemed to hesitate for a moment be  
fore saying,  I dare say that now you are 
settled you will be seen abroad far more than 
up until now."   
 I have been riding out every day, my 
lord," she answered stiffly.    
 I did mean social engagements.   I have 
no doubt you are in much demand and can 
pick and choose your engagements where 
you please.   You must not disappoint all 
those who wish to renew an acquaintance 
with you."   
Sabina could not help but smile at so obvious a moonshine, but replied dryly,  That 
would be too dreadful, I own, but in truth 
I have not quite decided whether to remain 
in Town or not."   
Lord Ashendon frowned.    You have dis  
posed of your country estate, I under  
stand."   
 There is no possibility of returning to 
Brookfield, but I had thought to remove to 
Tunbridge Wells."   
Madame Saint Gilles laughed.    Lady Mont  
ford, what is there in Tunbridge Wells, pray 
tell me?"   
Sabina eyed her coolly, envying her style   
and her sophistication.    It is my aunt's 
home, and my father has settled there, too."   
 I have no doubt that it will suit them 
admirably, but you cannot think to go."   
 I cannot think why it should dismay 
you, Madame Saint Gilles."   
 It would be far too dull for someone of 
your style.   Nowadays Paris is deemed to be 
the place to go when London becomes wearysome.   Have you considered a visit, Lady 
Montford?"   
 No, but I shall, you may be sure."   
Lord Ashendon for some reason appeared 
discomforted, but Madame Saint Gilles went 
on,  From all I have been told there are 
more Englishmen there than in London.    
You really should consider it, my lady.   I 
am persuaded you would like it exceeding 
well."   
 Really, Marguerite, you cannot      
the earl broke in, looking uncharacteristically discomforted.    
She cast him an arch look.    I may well 
go there myself before long."   
 I am certain Madame Saint Gilles is correct," Sabina broke in quickly, sensing the 
discord between them.    Many others have 
spoken of it to me."   
Lord Ashendon looked interested.    
 Really?   Who, may I ask?"   
 Lord Ambrose, for one.   He quite recently returned from France and speaks 
warmly of what he found there.    For myself, 
I have not yet been able to decide finally 
what I wish to do."   
 Therefore you will be able to attend the 
ball at Almack's on Wednesday," he said 
and it was not a question, adding hastily, 
 No doubt you have received vouchers."   
 As a matter of fact I have, but again I 
have not made up my mind."   
 Lady Montford is determined to tease," 
Madame Saint Gilles cried.    
The earl eyed Sabina wryly and she had 
the uncomfortable feeling that he knew ex  
actly why she was reluctant to go.    I think 
not, he murmured,  but I am bound to 
say she will disappoint a good many people 
if she does not attend."   
His voice was soft, his gaze a probing one.    
Sabina scarcely knew what to say or do and 
it came as a relief when he doffed his beaver 
and said,  Until tomorrow then, Lady 
Montford."   
Madame Saint Gilles inclined her head and 
they rode on.   Sabina rode on, too, not look  
ing back, his persuasive voice echoing in her   
ears.   It suddenly occurred to her that she 
had entirely mistaken her reception at the 
theatre.   It was possible she would be wel  
comed in the salons of the beau monde after 
all.   Just then the thought of that frightened 
her as much as their repudiation of her.    
As she rode out of the Park she recalled 
all she had heard of Marguerite Saint Gilles.    
Little was known of her origins, but she 
had married an immensely wealthy emigre" 
of advanced years who had obligingly ex  
pired shortly afterwards, leaving his entire 
fortune to her.   She was still very beautiful 
and certainly young enough to indulge her 
fancy and had built up a fashionable salon 
consisting mainly of Corinthians, many of 
whom, it was said, became her lovers.    
Once more her cheeks grew pink at the 
notion that Lord Ashendon was one of 
them.   They certainly presented a handsome 
appearance, and he had called her his  dear 
friend."   His chere amie, Sabina thought.    
Well, it was not likely that she would receive 
vouchers for Almack's.    
Despite conflicting emotions Sabina did de  
cide to attend the ball.   Misses Newby fluttered 
about like a butterfly muttering that her 
dearest hopes were to be fulfilled.    
 I am given to understand that Almack's 
is exceeding dull," her niece replied.    Lady 
Montford rarely wished to go."   
Misses Newby had been watching Sabina 
complete her toilette and she gasped at such 
irreverence.    You must not speak so, my 
dear.   Lady Montford was an elderly lady, 
more given to enjoying picquet than a Scottish reel."   
Sabina got to her feet at last and Misses 
Newby gasped.    Sabina you cannot go to 
Almack's looking so plain "   
She had chosen a white muslin gown with 
embroidery only about the hem and low 
neckline.   Around her throat was a modest 
circlet of pearls with a similar set threaded 
through her hair.    
 You look like a debutante, her aunt 
added.    
 I certainly do not feel like a married 
woman, or for that matter a widow."   
 You are a wealthy widow, and one who 
bears an old title. "   
 You need not constantly remind me, 
Aunt," Sabina answered with a sigh.    How  
ever often you do so I cannot help but feel 
like Sabina Jenkins."   
As she picked up her beaded reticule she 
went on,   Without doubt every woman   
there will be wearing a King's ransom in 
jewels, Aunt Rose.   Perchance, this is the 
one way I can outshine them all.   Even wearing my   jewellery  all will be aware of my 
origins.    
 They will be less concerned about it than 
you, my child."   
Sabina grinned.    I am beginning to appreciate that you are correct, Aunt, but I 
still find meeting these people as an equal 
a decided ordeal.   It was so much easier when 
I accompanied Lady Montford and was 
obliged to say nothing."   
A little later as the carriage approached 
Almack's Assembly Rooms, together with 
a good many others, Sabina's doubts began 
to multiply once more.   She felt uneasy again 
and more than a little angry at herself that 
she had allowed the words of a rake like 
Lord Ashendon to sway her in favour of 
going.    
 I am a chucklehead," she said aloud, 
which caused her aunt to look at her in   
astonishment.    
 Indeed?"   
Sabina smiled and asked,  Aunt Rose, 
why am I here?"   
 My goodness!   Have you forgotten?   We 
are come to Almack's for the ball."   
 I know that.   I cannot conceive why I 
am come to London at all."   
 You are come to take your rightful place 
in Society."   
Sabina looked rueful.    It is because Papa 
wished it although I cannot conceive why it 
is so important to him.   He is normally so 
unworldly.   Indeed, I recall hearing him say 
on one occasion that London was the cradle 
of the Devil."   
For a moment her aunt did not reply and 
then, drawing a sigh, she said,  I believe I 
know why he is so anxious for you to be 
here." Sabina looked at her with great interest.    Your mama was of gentle birth and 
breeding.   Her family had a high social 
standing and were not best suited when she 
chose to marry a penniless curate, as your 
papa then was, and they cruelly refused to 
have any more to do with her.   Your papa 
always felt some guilt at that and wished to 
repay her devotion to him by reinstating you 
to the Society from which Eleanor had 
come."   
 I see," Sabina replied, drawing in a deep 
breath.    I never knew that."   
 He never spoke of it."   
 When I return to Tunbridge Wells he 
will be sorely disappointed."   
Her aunt made no reply as the carriage 
had come to a halt outside Almack's.   The 
lackey let down the steps and still thoughtful, Sabina stepped down.    
Ten   
Countless chandeliers were ablaze with candles as Sabina walked slowly into the ball  
room of Almack's.   As she had surmised, all 
the Society leaders were present and mag  
nificently be jewelled, their gowns encrusted 
with beads, too.   Beneath the preponderance 
of lights the glitter was a breathtaking sight.    
She and her aunt hesitated in the door  
way, glancing around in vain for a friendly 
face.   Many people paused in mid conver  
sation to turn and regard them, some raising 
their quizzing glasses to see them the better.    
Sabina fiddled nervously with her silver  
spangled shawl, aware that a group of the 
current year's debutantes were eyeing her 
with some hostility.   She could understand 
their dislike; Montford, for all his scape  
grace ways, had been regarded as a good 
match.    or him to marry out of his circle 
was to some eyes, unforgiveable.   Now, possessed of a fortune, they no doubt feared   
she might poach another eligible bachelor 
from their midst.    
As she hesitated, uncertain of her reception, suddenly out of the throng the un  
mistakable figure of Lady Sefton emerged.    
 Lady Montford Misses Newby, I am so 
glad you decided to come."   
Both ladies curtseyed deeply as Lady Sefton began to lead them further into the 
room.    There are several people who wish 
to make your acquaintance.   You must allow 
me to present you both."   
 That would be a great honour, my 
lady," Misses Newby murmured, scarcely able 
to conceal her delight.    
As Sabina glanced around she was aware 
that Lord Ashendon did not appear to be 
present, something which annoyed her after 
he had indicated he would be there, How  
ever, she had little chance to brood upon 
that, for Lady Sefton introduced her to sev  
eral gentlemen who were more than anxious 
to partner her in the sets, and so soothe her 
injured sensibilities.    
Whilst Sabina received the flattery and 
attention of many of those who had previously ignored her, Misses Newby looked on 
contentedly from amongst a group of elderly 
matrons and chaperones.    
 Your arrival has injected a much needed 
freshness to the proceedings, my lady," one 
of Sabina's partners told her.    
 No doubt the presence of a mushroom 
causes something of an interest.    
He laughed delightedly at her candour, 
which was rare enough in Society.    No one 
with the slightest sensibility could deem you 
an upstart, ma'am."   
She eyed him wryly and her next partner 
took her to task immediately.    Lady Mont  
ford, I had made up my mind to complain 
to you on the very next occasion we met."   
 Sir  roderick, what have I done to injure 
you?"   
 Although I am reluctant to castigate so 
fetching a lady, I feel I must complain that 
it was you who bid me out of a prime bit 
of cattle at Tattersall's the other day."   
Sabina laughed with relief to hear the nature of his grievance.    Pray accept my apology."   
 So you regret the purchase, eh?   Do you 
wish to sell the filly?"   
Again she laughed.    No, Sir  roderick, 
I do not.   I am very pleased with her."   
 As well you might be.   Twelve hundred 
guineas is a good price to pay for even so 
fine a filly."   
She cast him a wry smile.    I am satisfied 
she is worth every penny of the price."   
 It is gratifying to discover a female who 
is a judge of horseflesh.   Most have only 
windmills in their heads."   
She was hard pressed not to laugh at that, 
for she had chosen the filly simply because 
her size was not too large and her grey colouring appealing.    
 Should you ever wish to sell          " Sir 
Frederick insisted.    
Sabina assured him he would be the first 
to know of it and then she went on to her 
next partner.   Most of those she conversed 
with were anxious to ascertain that she in  
tended to attend this rout, that drum.   Be  
fore the evening was half over Sabina 
discovered that she was actually enjoying 
herself hugely.   The realisation amazed her.    
Being in demand made all the difference, 
she discovered.   It was quite different to previous occasions when, as Lady Montford's 
companion, she was ignored, required only 
to fetch a glass of lemonade or her mistress's 
shawl.    
 May I take you in to supper, my lady?"   
Sabina had been in conversation with a 
dandified gentleman who was flirting out  
rageously with her when the invitation was   
made.   She turned on her heel to come face to 
face with Lord Ashendon at last.   The sight 
of him caused her to feel angry once more, 
although she was uncertain why she should 
feel that way.   It might have had some bear  
ing on the fact that he had asked politely 
and yet his confident manner indicated his 
expectation of her unquestioning acceptance.   He was, evidently, a man few ladies 
would refuse.    
Sabina was not one of them.    Thank you, 
my lord, but I must decline your kind invitation," she answered with equal polite  
ness and a great deal of resolution.    
However, the earl was not a man to be 
easily denied.   He smiled urbanely at both 
Sabina and her companion.    I am per  
suaded Mister Sheldrake will not take your de  
parture amiss.    
 Indeed, I will, Ashendon," the gentleman replied.    You cannot arrive late and 
expect to monopolise Lady Montford."   
The earl smiled engagingly at someone 
across the room before looking back at Mister 
Sheldrake.    It is you who seeks to monopolise her, Sheldrake.   I wish only to take her 
into supper.   You, after all, possess a charm  
ing wife to accompany you."   
The man was not impressed by the earl's   
reasoning.    No man takes his own wife into 
supper, Ashendon.   If you had one you 
would know that."   
The earl continued to be unabashed.    Is 
this not your good wife I see approaching?    
No doubt she is both hungry and thirsty."   
Mister Sheldrake took in an indignant breath 
and Sabina could not help but smile as a 
rather large lady bore down upon them.   It 
was in her direction that the earl had been 
smiling so invitingly a few moments earlier.    
 I was only just now saying, ma'am, that 
you will undoubtedly wish Mister Sheldrake to 
take you into supper," the earl greeted her.    
The woman smiled foolishly, fluttering 
her fan.    Only if you do not wish to, Lord 
Ashendon."   
He looked truly regretful.    Alas, I have 
only just asked Lady Montford."   
 That cannot be regarded as a misfortune, my lord," Misses Sheldrake allowed, 
casting Sabina a wry glance.    Lady Mont  
ford is in great demand, it seems."   
 My presence is a novelty," she re  
sponded.    
The woman laughed, a mite harshly.    
 You must inform Lady Montford, Ashendon, that wealthy young widows will always be all the crack." She inclined her head   
and grasped her husband by the sleeve of 
his coat saying,  By your leave."   
She led her downcast husband away and, 
oblivious of her earlier anger, Sabina 
laughed.    Shame on you!   That was dis  
gracefully contrived."   
 Would you have me leave you in the 
clutches of that old rake?"   
She cast him a wry look.    No indeed.    
Misses Sheldrake's look alone is enough to cut 
me to shreds.   I have no wish to invite such 
hostility."   
He appeared amused.    I am afraid you 
are always like to kindle envy in the hearts 
of those less favourably endowed than your  
self, ma'am."   
His compliment caused her breath to 
catch in her throat and she was forced to 
avert her eyes.   His appearance, she had already noted, was immaculate and she would 
have been surprised if it were not, for it was 
evident that he employed only the finest 
craftsmen to make his clothes.   His coat bore 
Weston's hallmark of perfection, his shirt 
was of the finest lawn, and his neckcloth 
was skilfully folded whilst not appearing to 
be too exaggerated.    
 I am afraid at Almack's the repast is not   
very inspiring," he told her as they went 
into the supper room.    
 I am enjoying myself hugely, so the 
supper is of scant importance." Suddenly, 
when she found him gazing at her, she 
looked away in confusion again, a blush 
coming to her cheeks.    Such an admission 
betrays my lack of sophistication."   
 Most delightfully so," he admitted 
gravely.    I confess to being surprised 
though, for you seemed determined to es  
chew all diversions."   
She sat down to leave him towering over 
her.    Only because I am unused to attend  
ing.   There seems no sense in my pretending 
to be anything other than what I am."   
 Heaven forbid that you should."   
She stole a glance at him and realised he 
was teasing her, something about which she 
had mixed feelings.    
 May I have a glass of lemonade?" she 
asked in a small voice.    
 There is precious little else, I fear."   
A few moments later he had returned 
with a glass for each of them and this time 
he sat down at her side.    There is at least 
no chance for a fellow to become foxed at 
Almack's," he said, a comment which made 
her laugh.    
 It is as well, for gentlemen are invariably 
bosky.   Some restraint on their behaviour is 
welcome.    
He looked taken aback.    Really, Lady 
Montford, I believe you have a jaundiced 
view of gentlemen in general.   I wonder what 
set Montford above all others."   
At so blatant a piece of sarcasm she 
clenched her glass tightly.    I really have no 
wish to discuss Montford."   
His manner immediately became more 
conciliatory, although she was certain he 
still mocked her.   She supposed most of 
Montford's cronies believed her to have 
married him for the most mercenary of reasons.   It would be useless for her to protest 
otherwise in view of the fact that her fortunes were certainly much greater now.    
 No, indeed," he went on a moment 
later.    I can only apologise for wounding 
you.   The memory of such a brief liaison 
must still be painful to you.   All I will say 
is that his taste in choosing you as his wife 
was much finer than I would have believed.    
Your modesty of dress and manner has im  
pressed itself on everyone who has made 
your acquaintance.   Lady Sefton in particular is much impressed."   
She could only stare at him in astonishment.   Although moonshine was not un  
known to her, coming from him it did seem 
a little out of character.    
After a moment she laughed delightedly 
and opened her fan.    La!   I have been 
praised so highly by so many gentlemen this 
evening I vow I shall return to Mount Street 
as vain as a peacock."   
Lurking in the doorway to the supper 
room she caught sight of Lord Ambrose 
who appeared somewhat surprised to see 
her there.    
She cast a fleeting glance at the earl before 
saying,  Pray excuse me, Lord Ashendon, 
but I should like to have words with Lord 
Ambrose.    
The earl got to his feet looking none too 
pleased, but whether that was because of 
her trite answer or her defection she could 
not be certain.   One thing she did know; 
although she had no liking for Lord Ambrose, she preferred his company to that of 
Lord Ashendon's just at that moment.    
As she approached her late husband's 
friend he smiled uncertainly.    Why, Lady 
Montford, what a surprise."   
 Surprise?   Should I not be here?"   
He looked even more uncertain.    Indeed,   
I did not mean             only you have always 
eschewed such gatherings."   
 I cannot for ever mourn Montford."   
His neckcloth suddenly seemed too tight 
from the way he tried to loosen it with one 
finger.    I am persuaded he would not      
er.           wish you to."   
 That is my opinion."   
Lord Ashendon had followed her from 
the supper room, casting them a cool glance 
as he passed.   A few moments later he was 
to be seen dancing a Scottish reel with a 
debutante.   With a start Sabina suddenly realised he was the most handsome man in 
the room.    
When Lord Ambrose followed the direction of her gaze, she said quickly,  Can you 
spare me a few moments of your time?"   
 Certainly.   Do you wish to join the set?"   
 No, I wish to have words with you."   
His cheeks flushed a little.    That would 
be my pleasure, ma'am."   
He escorted her to the side of the dance 
floor where chairs had been set out for those 
who did not wish to dance.    
 You seem to be attracting a deal of at  
tention," he said, laughing gruffly.    I am 
being subjected to fearsome glances from   
gentlemen I am evidently depriving of your 
company.    
 And I from ladies I am depriving of your 
company, Lord Ambrose.   It will, no doubt, 
be assumed that I am come in search of a 
husband."   
He stared down at the diamond ring 
which winked on his finger.    Are you not, 
Lady Montford?"   
She burst into an explosion of laughter.    
 No, I most certainly am not, Lord Ambrose "   
He looked rather relieved which startled 
her somewhat.   It made her feel suddenly 
uneasy, wondering if he now had designs 
on her newly acquired fortune, for she did 
not doubt that it was all any of them wanted.    
 I believe," he said with some difficulty 
a few moments later,  as the old friend I 
hope you regard me, I may give you a word 
of warning." She looked at him with interest 
and he swallowed noisily, easing his neck  
cloth once again.    Ashendon.   He is not to 
be trusted with ladies.   You are unused to 
such rakes and I would entreat you to be 
wary of his moonshine, my lady.   I hope 
you do not take such a warning amiss, but 
I feel          
She put up her hand.    No, no, I perfectly   
understand.   Your warning is unnecessary, 
my lord, I assure you.   I already have Lord 
Ashendon's measure in full."   
He looked greatly relieved and she went 
on quickly,  That was not the matter on 
which I wished to converse with you.   There 
is another of greater import.    
 I only wish to be of service to you.   You 
must call upon me on any occasion you need 
counsel, ma'am."   
 I am obliged to you, Lord Ambrose.   A 
day or two ago I received a call from a Misses 
Henderson."   
For a moment he looked totally blank.    
 Misses Henderson?"   
 The name does not mean anything to 
you?"   
 It does not.   Should it, ma'am?"   
 She is the unfortunate wife of the man 
who killed Montford."   
He drew back from her in alarm.    My 
God!   What did the jade want with you?"   
 She has monetary difficulties arising 
from the fact that her husband has not been 
seen since the night of the duel."   
 Are you surprised?   I would kill him my  
self if he were to appear.   He is well aware 
of that."   
He looked away from her and Sabina   
noted that Lord Ashendon was once again 
taking his place in a set, this time with an  
other young lady whose high colour indi  
cated her pleasure.    
 The impudent baggage " Lord Am  
brose fumed.    How dare she plague you 
with her whining?"   
 She is in dire straits with two children 
to feed and clothe.   She informed me that 
you had been to see her just after the duel, 
and I confess I considered it odd."   
He brought out his handkerchief and 
mopped his brow.    In my despair and fury 
I went to seek out Henderson.   He was not 
there, naturally.   That is all.   I was so moved 
that I wished to avenge Montford, but the 
fellow had fled."   
 She said you gave her money."   
 Yes, yes I did.   Toone will bear me out; 
we were moved by her circumstances.   She 
was not to blame and I felt Montford would 
have wished me to aid her."   
Sabina cast him a wry look.    Montford 
would not have cared tuppence for the wife 
of the man who shot him."   
He laughed uneasily.    So the scoundrel 
hasn't been seen since, eh?   Can't say I'm 
surprised."   
 She is, however, for she described him 
as a devoted father."   
 She would.   She has windmills in her 
head and cannot see him for the poltroon 
he is.   What manner of husband and father 
would abandon his family for a night in a 
gambling hell?"   
His question amused her.    Indeed, no 
doubt he was a similar kind of man to one 
who would desert his bride on his wedding 
night."   
The man's colour deepened once again.    
 That was quite a different matter.   Mont  
ford was in a celebratory mood." Sabina 
continued to eye him with amusement and 
then he said with obvious discomfort,  She 
will not trouble you again, my lady.   You 
can rely upon me to deal with the matter."   
 I beg you not to trouble on that score, 
Lord Ambrose.   I have dealt with the matter 
myself."   
 Do you not realise, though, that having 
given this creature money she will return 
for more?"   
Sabina toyed with her fan after catching 
the glance of Lord Ashendon who had 
paused in his conversation with his dancing 
partner.    I have already arranged for it to 
be paid to her."   
 Oh, Lady Montford, you must not, I 
beg of you."   
She drew a sigh.    You know as well as 
I, that Montford's death was purely ill fortune."   
Lord Ambrose licked his lips.    I cannot 
conceive what you may mean."   
 Simply that this unfortunate man cannot 
have been superior to my husband as a shot.    
That he killed Montford was a mere mis  
chance which no one could have foreseen.    
It was more like for Montford to have killed 
him."   
Lord Ashendon appeared to be making 
his way towards them and Sabina quickly 
got to her feet.    Lord Ambrose, if you are 
free I should like to join this set."   
He seemed more than eager to oblige, 
exhibiting relief at the cessation of their con  
versation.   He led her into the set and as he 
did so Sabina noted that the earl turned 
abruptly on his heel and then approached 
another lady.   As the music began she caught 
her aunt's eye.   Misses Newby was smiling con  
tentedly and suddenly Sabina felt dejected, 
for she could not understand her own be  
haviour.   All at once she knew she would 
have preferred to stand up with Lord Ash  
endon after all.    
However, she cast Lord Ambrose a weak 
smile as the set began.   On several occasions 
she came face to face with the earl, who 
remained silent and she could think of nothing to say to him.    
After Lord Ambrose had left her she was 
claimed by others and the evening sped past 
far too quickly.   As each set ended she hoped 
the earl would come to claim her again, but 
he did not, nor did he lack for other, willing, 
partners.   All too soon the evening came to 
an end.   Many of the others present went on 
to further diversions, but not Sabina and 
her aunt.    
As they settled back into the squabs of 
the carriage he came out of Almack's.   Hold  
ing his hat, cane and gloves, he was wearing 
an evening cape.   Just as he paused in the 
doorway he caught her eye.   He inclined his 
head ever so slightly just as he put on his 
curly brimmed beaver.    
Sabina looked away immediately, hardly 
knowing how to respond, and then the carriage jerked forward, moving down King 
Street.    
 Well, I own the evening was a great suc  
cess," Misses Newby said with a sigh.    You 
created a good deal of interest amongst all 
those present.   I was promised at least a score   
of invitations and pressed to accept all those 
we have already received, which is, of 
course, quite impossible.   It is most satis  
factory and you, my dear, seemed to enjoy 
every moment."   
 Almost every moment," she admitted.    
She wished she could relive her conver  
sation with Lord Ashendon.   She would dis  
play a good deal more sophistication, she 
vowed.    
 I trust that there will be no more talk 
of returning to Tunbridge Wells," her aunt 
ventured a moment later.    
Sabina could not help but laugh.   She no 
longer had any wish to live in Tunbridge 
Wells.    
 At least not for a while," she conceded.    
As the carriage rumbled homeward she 
harboured the capricious hope that on some 
occasion soon there would be another opportunity to stand up with Lord Ashendon.    
Eleven   
During the weeks which followed Sabina's 
debut in Society her wish was granted on 
many occasions.    
She stayed at home on very few evenings,   
for within a few days of being seen at Al  
mack's the house in Mount Street was in  
undated with invitations, callers and the 
gifts of admirers.   Sabina was quite over  
whelmed although her aunt seemed to take 
it all as quite natural.    
The result was that no longer did Sabina 
seek to hide at home, and everywhere she 
appeared she was greeted on all sides.   So 
great was the demand she was obliged to 
order more gowns from the mantua maker 
who declared her to be one of the few clients 
who paid promptly.   Accordingly Sabina was 
given priority and a hefty discount, and con  
trived to appear at every function in a new 
gown.    
Proprietors of the shops in Oxford Street 
came to know her, too, and she was always 
received in them with extreme obsequious  
ness, which secretly amused the one time 
lady's companion.    
Although Sabina mixed only with the 
Quality, she was reminded very forcibly one 
day that quite another world was not far 
away from the haunts of the fashionable 
world.   She had been leaving a plumassier in 
Oxford Street, having purchased a number 
of feathers to adorn a new bonnet, when a   
scruffy urchin ran past, snatching at her 
reticule.    
As it was pulled from her fingers she cried 
out in alarm and several gentlemen who had 
been nearby gave chase, but the urchin dis  
appeared down a dark alley and they re  
turned to her empty handed and apologetic.    
The incident shocked and depressed her 
spirits and she felt embarrassed, too, at all 
the to do, especially when Lord Ashendon, 
who had been passing in his curricle, 
stopped to discover what was happening.    
At the sight of Sabina in the centre of the 
furore he pushed his way forcibly through 
the mass of people surrounding her.    
 Lady Montford, what is amiss?"   
A gentleman, who had been giving her 
succour, gladly explained the situation.   The 
earl looked both aggrieved and exceedingly 
concerned.    I trust that you are not harmed 
in any way."   
Sabina affected a smile.    Indeed not, and 
my reticule contained only a few guineas.    
 That, at least is a mercy.   The town 
abounds with thieves and cutpurses, 
ma'am, and they grow bolder.   Allow me to 
escort you home, if you have completed 
your shopping."   
She was glad to do so and, sending Daisy   
home in her own carriage, she allowed her  
self to be handed into the curricle.   It was a 
mercy to escape all the curious stares, although the sight of her in Lord Ashendon's 
curricle invited a good many more.    
The incident soon faded from her 
thoughts but as the weeks passed she be  
came aware of a very disturbing fact; only 
when Lord Ashendon was present at a function did she truly enjoy it.   If he arrived late 
she found herself constantly watching for 
his arrival.    
To her delight he always spent some of 
the time conversing with her, and she dis  
covered he had a lively wit and was con  
versant upon every subject which arose.    
Standing up for dances with him was a par  
ticular pleasure as he had a sure step.   Lady 
Sefton often included Sabina and her aunt 
in her parties to the theatre or Vauxhall, 
and always the earl was present, too.    
Every time they met and conversed she 
became more and more impressed by his 
charm, even though she remained aware 
that he was as great a rake as most.   How  
ever, it did seem to her that he was of a 
different stamp to her late husband and his 
other cronies.   Although she was not certain 
what the difference could be, she knew   
there was one.   On reflection she could not 
think what Ashendon had in common with 
the others.    
 My dear," her aunt said one morning as 
they took breakfast together,  I cannot conceive how you contrive to look so radiant.    
After so much hectic social activity I find it 
positively wearing."   
Sabina had been sorting through the latest invitations to arrive and glanced imp  
ishly at her aunt.    If you do it is only just, 
for it was you who forced me into this giddy 
whirl."   
 And you shall thank me for it.   Indeed, 
I cannot regret it, my dear.   I am bound to 
say you have never looked better.               
 I grant you I am enjoying myself hugely, 
and who would not?   Those who are so con  
descending towards me are the very people 
I once looked upon with awe.    
 Why should they not?   You bear an old 
title, possess a fair fortune, and a pleasant 
disposition.   No one could ask for more."   
 Fudge." Her eyes grew dreamy then.    I 
did enjoy being at Astley's Amphitheatre 
last night.   Did you see how beautifully Miss 
Crispin danced upon that horse, Aunt?"   
 Yes I certainly did," Misses Newby answered wryly,  although I take leave to   
 doubt that Ashendon did.   He was far too 
interested in you."   
Sabina's cheeks grew red.    You are gammoning me now."   
 I vow I do not."   
Hurriedly, Sabina asked,  Tell me what 
Papa says in his letter."   
Misses Newby glanced at the paper she held 
in her hand.    He sends his fondest regards 
to you and is delighted to hear of your suc  
cess.   It is no more than he expected."   
 He is the most unnatural parent.    
Wouldn't you think he would prefer me to 
live with him in Tunbridge Wells?"   
 He is a very natural parent in that he 
sees you as someone very special, in need 
of something a little more exciting than a 
life with two old people in Tunbridge Wells.    
Your Papa in his younger days was quite 
ambitious, I'll have you know."   
Sabina cast her a surprised look before 
she returned her attention to the cards 
spread over the tablecloth in front of her.    
 We really shall have to consider holding a 
rout here, you know, Aunt.   A response to 
all this will be expected before the end of 
the Season."   
Her aunt frowned.    We did hold a card 
party the other week.   Will that not suffice?"   
Sabina laughed.    I was thinking of some  
thing a little more ambitious.   The ballroom 
here is quite splendid and hasn't been 
opened up since Montford died." She 
looked suddenly despondent.    How long 
ago that seems, Aunt."   
 Almost a year and a half.   Did you love 
him very much?"   
 It seemed as if I did.   Now  tis more like 
a dream, almost as if he never existed.   I 
don't miss him at all, Aunt Rose.   Do you 
miss Uncle Eustace?" she asked, casting 
Misses Newby an earnest look.    
 All the time," she admitted which didn't 
help Sabina's feelings at all,  but Eustace 
and I were married for over twenty years.    
 Montford and I were wed a mere twelve 
hours.   Of that time I was actually with him 
only an hour. "   
Sabina stared into space for a long while 
until her aunt asked in a bright tone,  Do 
tell me what kind of diversion you have in 
mind. "   
 I don't know," she replied, and then 
brightened.    Yes, I do.   A masquerade."   
 That sounds very agreeable, I own.    
Masquerades are so much fun.   I am for ever 
mistaking people."   
Sabina's eyes were bright again.    Let us   
insist upon everyone wearing either gold or 
silver dominoes.   Then no one can say that 
the Montford masquerade is not a glittering 
occasion."   
They both erupted into peals of laughter.    
 You have the makings of a great hostess," 
her aunt told her, wiping her eyes.    Some 
man is going to be very fortunate to gain 
you as a wife."   
Sabina blushed.    Oh, do not say so, Aunt 
Rose, for I have no intention of marrying 
again."   
 Again?   You were scarce wed the first 
time.   That foolishness cannot be deemed a 
marriage, although I own it was responsible 
for your excellent situation at present.    
Sabina's cheeks grew hot.    Aunt Rose, 
please!   Let us not discuss it any further.    
 It is time that you did, child.   So many 
people who knew Montford, and now are 
acquainted with you, have expressed their 
dismay at so genteel a lady marrying him.    
Few have a kind word to say on his behalf, 
I assure you.    
 Shame on them then, Aunt.   He is, after 
all, dead.   They can afford to be kind to his 
memory.    
Misses Newby looked abashed.    You are 
correct to chastise me, dear.   I shall not mention it again.  
she went on,  Recall we are to go to Vaux  
hall tonight and share a box with the Carlions."   
Sabina drew in a sharp breath, for her 
heart quickened involuntarily.   Ashendon 
was bound to be there, and the prospect of 
seeing him again caused her nothing but 
pleasure.    
 Lady Sefton is quite taken with you, you 
know, dear.   It is a great honour."   
Her niece snapped out of her reverie and 
she stared at misses   Newby.    I find her rather 
alarming, truth to tell."   
 She is not at all alarming, nor as top  
lofty as you would suppose.   Only yesterday 
evening she confided about her concern for 
Ashendon."   
At the mention of the earl's name Sabina 
stared even harder.    Ashendon?   What is he 
to her?"   
 Her Godson, and since his parents died 
she has deemed herself responsible for him.    
He is now three and thirty, and despite all 
her encouragement he shows no sign of 
wishing to relinquish his bachelorhood.    
How provoking it is for her, I own.   She is 
well aware he remains totally besotted by 
Madame Saint Gilles."   
 I had no notion he was Lady Sefton's 
Godson."   
Misses Newby looked unconcerned as she 
poured herself more coffee and took another 
slice of bread and butter.    Of late you seem 
more kindly disposed towards him and I was 
certain you must know of his relationship 
with Lady Sefton."   
 I assure you I did not "   
 Well, it is of no account, I dare say."   
Sabina looked away in dismay.   Then she 
gathered up all the cards.   As she did so her 
aunt ventured,  There is nothing I have said 
to put you out of countenance?"   
 How could there be?"   
 You look as if you are in a miff.   Surely 
it cannot be because Lady Sefton omitted 
to tell you Lord Ashendon was her God  
son?"   
 Certainly not, Aunt.   It is nothing to me.    
Pray excuse me, I must reply to these, and 
if we are to hold a masquerade this Season 
all the arrangements must be put in hand 
immediately."   
She walked across the room as Misses 
Newby cast her a vague smile.   Outwardly 
Sabina was calm and composed, but inside 
she was seething.   She recalled her first 
meeting in London with Lord Ashendon,   
and almost immediately afterwards Lady 
Sefton's offer of vouchers for Almack's.   The 
coincidence seemed too great to be ignored 
and her heart seethed with fury.   If he had 
engineered her debut in Society just to see 
her fail miserably, it would be too humili  
ating to contemplate.   Her cheeks grew red 
at the thought and she banged the door to 
the dining room behind her as she left.    
She was growing more furious by the 
minute and the fact that she had become a 
success in Society was no balm.   If her sus  
picions did prove to be true, she would not 
easily forgive him.    
Twelve   
The thought went around in Sabina's  mind 
all day, tormenting her and infuriating her 
in turn.   Although she busied herself with 
domestic matters and the plans for the masquerade, thoughts of Lord Ashendon con  
tinually intruded, turning what should have 
been a pleasurable pursuit into a chore.    
By the evening the pain which nagged her 
all day developed into a fully fledged head  
ache.   Even that was welcome, for it afforded 
her an excuse to cry off the evening at Vaux    
hall and gain a respite from the earl for a 
short while at least.    
Misses Newby fussed about her niece with 
suggestions for a cure until Sabina felt she 
could bear it no longer and at length con  
sented to take some laudanum before retiring early to bed.   As she climbed between 
the sheets she reflected sourly that had she 
remained in ignorance of the earl's relation  
ship with Lady Sefton, she would have been 
enjoying a sublime evening in his company 
at Vauxhall after a journey there by boat 
along the Thames.   Sinking back against the 
pillows she thought that he would spend the 
evening flirting with Arabella Harkness, 
heiress to one of the wealthiest estates in 
England.   Well, if that was so it meant nothing to her.    
Fortunately she did not brood upon her 
thoughts for much longer as the laudanum 
soon lulled her into a sleep of forgetfulness.    
Her dreams, however, developed into a 
graphic one where she was aboard a barge 
on the river being serenaded by Lord Ash  
endon.    
Sabina wasn't quite certain why she 
awoke from such a pleasant dream feeling 
alarmed.    For a moment she remained rigid 
in the bed, feeling full of fear.   She was confused at first, unsure whether she was actually awake or still dreaming.   Then she 
realised what had awoken her.   Someone was 
in the darkened room.   Terror seized her by the throat as a shadowy presence moved 
closer to the dressing table.    
 Daisy," she wwhispered, all the while 
knowing it was not her maid.    
Her senses told her that the evening was 
not far advanced.   As the figure froze mo  
mentarily Sabina heard the chink of her jew  
ellery.   Then she began to scream, and the 
shadowy figure darted towards the door.    
Suddenly the entire house was in an up  
roar.   Thundering footsteps could be heard 
pounding along the corridor as Sabina, rigid 
with shock, shrank into the pillows, clutch  
ing the sheets in her fists.    
Daisy and Aunt Rose arrived almost together, both clutching shawls about their 
nightgowns and holding candles which im  
mediately lighted the room, dismissing 
many shadows but creating several more.    
 There was someone in my room," Sabina gasped,  over there."   
Her finger shook as she pointed towards 
the dressing table.    
 Lord preserve us," Misses Newby cried,   
growing pale.    Where did he go?   Is he still 
here?"   
 He ran out when I began to scream."   
 My poor lady," Daisy gasped.    
Melrose, the butler, and several footmen 
arrived next, each bearing aloft a branch of 
candles which at last rendered the shadows 
harmless.   The male servants still wore their 
livery, which reinforced Sabina's  notion 
that it was not very late.    
 An intruder," Misses Newby informed 
them breathlessly.    Here, in Lady Mont  
ford's room."   
Immediately Melrose went to the window 
and Sabina gasped,  He escaped down the 
corridor."   
The butler frowned.    How long ago, 
ma'am?"   
 Oh, about five minutes, perhaps less.   It 
seems an age and I feel very confused."   
 None of us in the hall heard anything, 
ma'am, but if he is still here be assured we 
shall find the scoundrel."   
At the thought that he might still be in 
the house Sabina shuddered.   The butler is  
sued orders for the house to be searched 
and as Daisy went to the dressing table Sabina said,  I think he had come to steal my 
jewels.   Are any of them missing?"   
 The sapphires and diamonds are here, 
ma'am, and the pearls.   Yes, ma'am, heaven 
be praised, all your jewellery is here."   
The news was a great relief to Sabina but 
Misses Newby declared,  Oh, fie to the jewels!    
Your safety is of far more import.   I dare 
not allow myself to imagine what might have 
happened to you."   
Tears sparkled on Sabina's lashes as she 
began to tremble at last.    It was a dreadful 
Fshock, I own."   
 It must have been," her aunt commiserated.    You are being so brave about it, 
too."   
 Did neither of you see him?   I am quite 
persuaded he ran down the corridor."   
Daisy and Misses Newby exchanged startled 
glances.    No, dear, we did not," Misses 
Newby answered.    How odd that he should 
not escape through the window.   The only 
other way he could have escaped is down 
the back stairs and out of the servants" entrance.   I expect he is far away by now."   
 I trust that he is," Sabina replied in 
heartfelt tones.    What alarms me most is 
the ease with which he came and went, 
moreover he seemed to know exactly where 
to go.   Evidently he was certain that no servants would be about to see him make his 
escape."   
 These scoundrels are ever cunning, my 
dear," misses   Newby agreed, patting Sabina's  
hand.    If he is about do not doubt that 
Melrose will find him.   They will turn out 
every corner and cupboard in the house."   
Sabina looked wide eyed at her aunt.    
 What if he knew I was to be at Vauxhall 
this evening and did not expect to find any 
of us at home?"   
The elderly lady was evidently taken 
aback at the suggestion.    Sabina, if that 
were so you would also be expected to be 
wearing your jewels."   
Sabina shook her head impatiently.    
 Every one of our acquaintances is aware I 
rarely wear much jewellery.   There is always 
a good chance I shall leave most of it at 
home.   One piece is sufficient to keep a 
spendthrift in comfort for a year."   
Misses Newby laughed uncomfortably.    
 Oh, no, my dear, I am persuaded you are 
being fanciful.   You cannot mean to suggest 
one of our acquaintances is the culprit."   
 Why not indeed?   So many are in dun 
territory.   They think nothing of eluding 
their creditors, which is, after all, a form of 
theft, is it not?"   
 Well, I own that is true, and many of 
them are indeed coxcombs, but I cannot 
concede that one of them might stoop so 
low.    
Sabina sighed.    No indeed, Aunt Rose, 
I dare say you are correct.   Our acquaintances merely cheat tradesmen, gamble 
away fortunes, fight like tigers when in their 
cups and generally lead a dissolute life in a 
number of unspeakable establishments.    
None of them could possibly steal."   
Stung by her niece's sarcasm Misses Newby 
turned on the several maidservants who 
were standing wide eyed in the doorway.    
 Go along now, I pray.   There is nothing to 
see now.   Go to your duties or your beds."   
They ran off, chattering excitedly amongst 
themselves.   Very shortly afterwards Mel  
rose returned to make his report.    
 There is no sign of the scoundrel either 
here in the house or in the garden, ma'am.    
You may rest assured that every inch has 
been searched thoroughly.   Would you have 
me call the watch?"   
Sabina sighed again.    No, Melrose, do 
not trouble.   He stole nothing, it appears, 
and I am at a loss to what the Watch can 
do to apprehend him now.   He is like to be 
miles away."   
 Very well, but I would advise that the 
servants" entrance is kept locked after night  
fall in the future, ma'am."   
 Oh, I can scarce credit the need for 
that " Misses Newby complained.    Locked 
doors.   Whatever next?"   
 Melrose is correct, Aunt, and it shall be 
done."   
 Is there anything else I can do for you, 
ma'am?"   
 Yes, lock all the doors " she answered 
in heartfelt tones.    
 It has already been done, and the first 
thing in the morning I shall personally in  
terview every servant in the event one of 
them has some pertinent information."   
 Thank you, Melrose," Sabina said and 
then,  I suggest now that we all try to obtain 
some rest."   
The butler bowed out of the room and 
Misses Newby said,  I fear we shall all be hag  
ridden on the morrow." She cast a glance 
towards Daisy.    You might as well retire 
too, girl.   I shall attend your mistress."   
Daisy looked at first uncertain but then 
curtseyed and left the room.   As the door 
closed Sabina cast her aunt a heartfelt look.    
 I am so sorry I caused such a to do, Aunt.    
I feel such a buffle head."   
 Nonsense, child, you were afraid, as 
well you might have been.   I shall not sleep 
easily in my bed tonight.   However," she 
added in a more thoughtful tone,  there is 
always a possibility you were having a par  
ticularly unpleasant dream."   
 Aunt Rose, a man was here in my room!    
I saw him by the dressing table.   I heard him 
touching my jewels.   I know someone was 
here."   
Misses Newby patted her hand.    Now, do 
not, I beg of you, get into a pucker over 
this.   I certainly have no wish to cast doubts 
upon your good sense, but only think, my   
dear; you have looked done up all day.   You 
  have been far from well, and after the laudanum  .   well, dreams do sometimes seem 
so real.   I have experienced them myself."   
Sabina sank back into the pillows.    Oh, 
it is of no matter now."   
Her aunt began to move towards the 
door.    I shall go myself to the kitchen and 
make you a nice posset, dear.   Have no fear, 
I shall remain with you in your room until 
you are asleep again."   
 I feel as if I shall never sleep easily 
again," Sabina answered in a petulant tone.    
 The posset will soothe your nerves."   
Left alone, Sabina stared up at the tapestry tester.   She supposed she should welcome the idea that she had dreamed the 
distressing episode, but she remained con  
vinced that there really had been an intruder in her room.   Even more frightening was 
the sure knowledge he was someone she 
knew.    
Thirteen   


Despite her declaration that she would not 
sleep, Sabina did so, deeply and without 
disturbing dreams.    
One of her visitors the following day 
was none other than Madame Saint Gilles.   Of 
all people, Ashendon's chere amie was the 
last person Sabina wished to see, especially 
as she was still suffering from the shock of 
her nighttime encounter.   However, Misses 
Newby gave instructions for that lady to be 
shown in before Sabina could gainsay her.    
 I really have no heart to receive visitors," she complained as the lackey left the 
room.    
 Fudge " her aunt replied.    A visitor to 
divert you is just what you need.   Moreover, 
Madame Saint Gilles is always so lighthearted.    
She is bound to raise your spirits, my dear."   
Madame Saint Gilles was ushered into the 
room before Sabina could argue that point 
with her aunt.   The lady's hat, adorned with 
feathers, was of a very latest mode, and Sabina could not help but admire it.   Her entire 
style at all times was one to be envied.    
Whenever she rode in the park, driving her 
own high perch phaeton, heads were turned 
in her direction and a host of young bucks 
crowded around in the hope of an encouraging word from her lips.    
 My dear ladies, how fortunate I am to 
find you at home!   It is a well known fact 
that you are in so much demand that I had 
quite made up my mind to leave my card." 
She looked at Sabina and her smile faded a 
little.    My dear Lady Montford, you look 
positively hollow eyed."   
Sabina smiled faintly.    You do wonders 
for my sensibilities, Madame.   Won't you be   
seated?"   
Madame Saint Gilles accepted the invitation 
and then turned immediately to the older 
lady.    I am dismayed, Misses Newby.   Lady 
Montford's cheeks are usually so full of colour.   I am positively envious of her complexion."   
 Alas, my niece is indeed done up to    
day," Misses Newby replied as Sabina re  
mained mutinously silent on the subject.    
Misses Newby glanced briefly at Sabina who 
returned her attention to her sewing and 
then launched into the story of the night's 
events.   Misses Newby's version was a good 
deal more alarming than the event itself and 
Sabina was obliged to contain her irritation 
with some difficulty as Madame Saint Gilles 
gasped, frowned and tutted throughout the 
discourse.    
 Now I understand " she cried at last.    I 
knew immediately that something was 
amiss.   My dear Lady Montford, what an 
ordeal for you!   How brave you are in the 
wake of it.   I should have had the vapours 
if not a seizure."   
Sabina smiled as she looked up from her 
needlework.    It is by no means certain it 
was not merely a bad dream."   
 Oh, but you are too full of good sense 
to mistake the one from another."   
Sabina cast her aunt a triumphant glance 
and Misses Newby had the grace to look away 
as Madame Saint Gilles asked,  Was the scoundrel apprehended?"   
 Alas, no, Madame," Misses Newby answered, and then was submitted to a good 
deal of questioning until Madame Saint Gilles     was satisfied she knew everything possible 
about the incident.   
Moments afterwards she was gathering 
up her reticule.   You must, I beg of you, 
excuse me, dear ladies.  I have a sitting with 
Mister Lawrence." She coloured slightly.   Sir 
Humphrey  Frobisher has commissioned a 
portrait by the great man, and it would not 
do to keep him waiting.  In any event I have 
detained you for long enough.  You will need 
to rest after your ordeal, my lady, but I do 
trust you will soon recover your spirits.   
Adieu, ladies."   
She swept out hurriedly and Sabina put 
down her needlework at last.   Really, Aunt 
Rose, I cannot conceive why you felt the 
necessity to tell her, of all people, about last 
night.  She is the greatest tattle basket in 
Town.  Even now she will be summoning 
up a salon merely to divulge this latest on  
dit."   
Misses Newby laughed.   It cannot be kept 
a secret, my dear, and Madame Saint Gilles 
may as well know the truth of the matter 
from the outset so it does not become too 
exaggerated in the telling."   
 It will in any event, you may be sure.   
By tomorrow everyone will be talking of the 
band of robbers who left me for dead and   
stole everything I possessed.  I suppose I 
ought to be gratified you did not inform her 
it was a mere dream.   
 You do not believe it, so I shall not gain  
say you, Sabina.  It was only a suggestion 
which I made in good faith.  You should be 
gratified you are like to arouse admiration 
in everyone else over this.             
 Yes, indeed," Sabina answered with a 
sigh.   It is just the thing to arouse admiration, although I cannot conceive why." 
Suddenly she began to chuckle and her aunt 
cast her a worried look.   As if she would 
have the vapours!  She is as like to have the 
vapours as I am, although I dare say if it 
was to impress some gentleman with the fact 
that she is a delicate and helpless female she 
would.  It is scarce like that she would be 
alone in the event of a robbery.  I give leave 
to doubt she spends much time in her own 
company.  Sir Humphrey  Frobisher is several times a grandfather, and so should 
know better than to behave as a love lorn 
youth."   
Misses Newby chuckled, too, then.   Could 
it be that your outrage stems more from the 
fact that Madame Saint Gilles is reputed to have 
an intimate relationship with Lord Ashendon?"   
Sabina stiffened with indignation.   Certainly not!  Lord Ashendon's relationships 
are nothing to me." She got to her feet, 
affecting great dignity.   If you will be good 
enough to excuse me, Aunt, I believe I shall 
talk with Misses Ellis upon matters pertaining 
to the masquerade."   
As she closed the door to the sitting room 
behind her she was vexedly aware that her 
aunt was chuckling softly to herself.   
Sabina was not surprised when the earl him  
self called in later that day; Madame Saint 
Gilles would have lost little time in inform  
ing him of the latest sensation.  However, 
on this occasion, Sabina felt she had a valid 
reason for not receiving him.   
As the lackey hurried away to relay her 
message she could not help but give in to 
the temptation of opening the door a little 
and peering out.  He was standing in the 
hall, hat in hand.  Sunshine was pouring in 
from a landing window, lighting his dark 
curls with auburn.   
As the lackey spoke in soft tones to the 
Earl,  it just so happened that Misses Newby 
came down the stairs.   Ah, Lord Ashendon, how nice of you to call.  I dare say you 
have heard about our little excitement."   
 It pains me to admit that I have, Misses 
Newby.  I am very shocked and it seems 
Lady Montford is somewhat overset by her 
ordeal, which is not surprising."   
 Indeed, she has had the megrims all day, 
I fear."   
 Lady Montford does not appear to me 
to be a vapourish female, but it is no wonder 
her sensibilities are overset."   
 You are very understanding, my lord."   
 It is a pity she did not come to Vauxhall 
last night and thus avoid the unpleasant  
ness, as I am persuaded she would."   
 That is so, but poor Sabina had the 
headache quite badly and was in no fit state 
to go out.  It is so unusual for her and I am 
persuaded she will be devastated to have 
missed your call."   
 Will you be kind enough to convey my 
felicitations to her, Misses Newby?"   
 It will be a pleasure," the lady beamed.   
Her delight in his company irritated the 
watching girl.   
 I shall call again at a more appropriate 
time."   
 My niece, I am persuaded, will be honoured to receive you, my lord."   
Sabina closed the door, resting her cheek 
against it and drawing a sigh.  She would not   
receive him on this occasion but she knew 
it was a futile gesture, for she was bound to 
meet him again soon if not at this house 
then at someone else's.  In any event of late 
he was never far from her thoughts, and it 
Fseemed she was fighting a tide which was   
Fbound to engulf her eventually.   
As the news spread abroad, more of Sabina's 
acquaintances called at Mount Street to de  
clare their concern and dismay.  Sabina did 
not actually receive most of them as it was 
not expected that she should do so.  One 
good thing had emerged from the experience; no one expressed surprise when she 
did cry off further social engagements.   
Although she knew she would be obliged 
to face the earl before long, the coward in 
her wished to postpone the eventuality for 
as long as was possible.   
One of her earlier callers was Lord Ambrose, and Sabina was bound to converse 
with him as she happened to be passing 
through the hall at the precise moment he 
arrived.   
 Lady Montford, I have only just heard 
the news, given to me by a friend when I 
called in at White's."   
 I cannot conceive why so much has been   
made of such a trifling occurrence.  There 
must be a great shortage of more exciting 
tattle."   
 How brave you are to say so, my lady!   
I can only admire your courage, for it must 
have been quite a terrifying experience."   
 Yes, it was, but as no harm was done it 
would be as well to forget the incident.  It 
is what I wish to do in any event."   
 Indeed, it is best, I agree." He looked 
suddenly uncertain.   I trust that nothing of 
any value was stolen from you."   
 Nothing at all, Lord Ambrose.  The 
scoundrel was disturbed and was obliged to 
leave the house empty handed."   
 It is a good fortune that you were not 
attacked."   
She drew back, not having thought of that 
before.   Do you think I might have been?"   
 The possibility is always present, 
ma'am.  There are some desperate men in 
this town, and I have heard tell of some 
alarming incidents which I shall not recount 
to you."   
Sabina had some difficulty in suppressing 
a shudder and he went on persuasively,  I 
am only surprised you have not deemed it 
prudent to retire to the country in the wake 
of what has happened to you."   
Taken aback once again, she replied,  Do 
you think I should be frightened away, Lord 
Ambrose?"   
He laughed uneasily.   No, no, my lady, 
you mistake my meaning;  twas merely the 
thought if you do not object to my saying 
so that you always seemed much happier 
leading a rustic life.  In fact I recall Montford 
saying so on more than one occasion."   
Sabina drew a sigh.  Those days at Brook  
field seemed a long way away now.   I am 
committed to holding a masquerade here 
and until that is over I must stay, but after 
becoming the victim of robbers and cut  
purses I confess I am sadly disillusioned 
with life in London."   
He smiled faintly and seemed quite 
pleased by her confession.  She wished he 
would go, for she certainly had no intention 
of inviting him into the drawing room for 
a lengthy visit.   
 Although I am persuaded all your 
acquaintances would be most disappointed 
to miss what promises to be the event of the 
Season, those who wish you well would un  
derstand that you need a respite to recover 
your spirits."   
 You seem mightily concerned for my 
welfare, Lord Ambrose."   
    You may be certain that I am."   
 It is quite unnecessary, I assure you."   
He suddenly looked away from her.    
 Lady Montford, I cannot help my concern 
for you.   What began as a duty to the memory of an old friend has developed into a   
pleasure on its own account." He looked at 
her then.    I do trust you understand what 
I am, pathetically, trying to say to you.   You 
have my greatest regard, Lady Montford, 
and I do trust, because of it, you will not 
take amiss my anxiety on your behalf."   
It was Sabina's turn to look away in confusion.    Indeed, Lord Ambrose, I am quite 
overcome, you may be sure."   
She began to move away from him, feeling 
more than a little discomforted.   Declarations of devotion from any of Montford's 
friends could only dismay her.    from Ambrose, of all people, it was alarming, for she 
neither liked nor trusted him, and moreover 
she did not believe what he was saying, but 
she would not have been surprised to learn 
that he had designs on her fortune.    
 There is one matter about which I would 
crave your indulgence, ma'am." She looked 
at him again, her thoughts still preoccupied.    
He smiled foolishly then.    I am at present   
in a small wayy temporarily embarrassed for 
funds   
She gazed at hhim, realisation dawning on 
her at last.   Then he continued, looking 
slightly discomforted,  Montford, Toone 
and a few others," he went on with a laugh, 
 was always used to be in dun territory.   It 
was customary for us to stump up the blunt for 
one another until we receive our allowances 
and other such monies."   
He continued to eye her uneasily, finger  
ing his hat.   Sabina drew in a sharp breath.    
 How much do you wish to borrow, my 
lord?"   
Eagerly, he replied,  Whatever you can 
easily spare, my lady."   
She turned on her heel, saying in a cold 
tone,  I will give you a note for my bank."   
 Lady Montford, that is more than generous of you.   You can be certain   
The rest of his words were lost as she 
closed the library door.   A few minutes later 
she returned and handed him the promised 
note.    
He looked at it, saying,  This really is 
very generous of you, my lady."   
 I trust it will obviate the need for you 
to return on a similar errand.   And now Lord   
Ambrose, you must excuse me.   I must at  
tend to some household matters."   
He stepped towards the door, his hessians 
gleaming in the sunlight.    Forgive me for 
detaining you, ma'am, but please bear in 
mind what I said." She frowned and he went 
on, tucking the paper into his pocket, 
 About returning to the country.   It really 
is so much more tranquil, don't you agree?"   
She made no reply, save to draw a sigh 
of relief when he had gone.   Then as if to 
rid herself of the unpleasant feeling his visit 
had left with her she glanced idly at the 
number of posies and bouquets which had 
been left for her.   Attached to one was a card 
bearing the coat of arms of the Earl of Ash  
endon.   She smiled faintly as she touched 
the waxy blooms, and then continued about 
her tasks, still feeling uneasy although she 
was no longer sure whether that was because 
of the attempted robbery or Lord  Am  
brose  s  unwelcome visit.    
Fourteen   


Although she contrived to remain unavailable for several days, Sabina eventually de  
cided she must visit some emporiums   
herself, as neither Daisy nor Misses Newby 
had the ability to purchase goods on her 
behalf.    
The carriage was brought round and Sabina was just putting on her gloves when a 
magnificent high perch phaeton drew to a 
stop outside the door.   She was curious as 
to who owned such a vehicle and yet when 
Lord Ashendon climbed down she drew 
back in alarm..   He handed the ribbons to 
his tiger and came striding into the hall, 
sweeping off his hat before Sabina had any 
opportunity to withdraw.    
 Lady Montford, what a happy chance 
to find you here. "   
 I regret, Lord Ashendon, you have 
called at an inopportune time.   I am about 
to go out."   
He was undismayed.    I am come to show 
you my new carriage so you must allow me 
to convey you to your destination."   
Averting her eyes she answered,  Your 
carriage is indeed a handsome one.   You are 
to be congratulated."   
 You would do me a great honour if you 
consented to be the first lady to ride in it."   
Startled, she began to stammer,  It is 
I who is honoured, my lord, but I must 
decline your very kind offer.   I needs   
must make some purchases in Bond Street, 
and "   
His eyes sparkled with amusement.    Do 
you intend to ride to Bond Street?"   
 Why, yes      
 Then allow me to transport you."   
She drew in a sharp breath, angered by 
his persistence.    Lord Ashendon, I am 
sadly ignorant of the difference between a 
whisky, a curricle, or indeed a phaeton, so 
would it not be best if you were to invite 
someone who knows more about such matters?"   
 No, it would not," was his unequivocal 
reply.    
 You really are a most insistent man," 
she complained.    
He smiled.    I am, Lady Montford.   Shall 
we go?"   
After dismissing her own carriage she allowed him to help her up onto the phaeton 
which was a very high one.   Despite declaring her ignorance of such matters she knew 
very well it was a most splendid vehicle.   As 
the earl took the ribbons she was aware that 
a good number of those passing by at the 
time turned to look at them admiringly.    
 I cannot help but feel Madame Saint Gilles 
would be more appreciative of your phaeton," she found herself saying as they set 
off.    
 I cannot doubt that either," was his laconic reply.    
 You really should have accorded her this 
honour.    
He glanced at her, smiling faintly.    Do 
you doubt she will have her turn?"   
 No," Sabina snapped, turning her head 
away from him so she would not have to 
endure his mocking look.    
 Then you have no cause for concern on 
her behalf.   However, I am persuaded Madame Saint Gilles will be touched to hear of 
it."   
The journey to the shops was completed 
very quickly.   Sabina did not wait for the 
earl to come round but allowed the tiger to 
help her down.   Once she was safely on the 
kerbside she allowed herself to look at him 
as he came round in front of the horses.    
 You are to be congratulated, Lord Ash  
endon.   Your carriage is magnificent and 
your manner of handling it even more so."   
His eyebrows rose, as if in surprise.    
 Lady Montford, you are, after all, knowledgeable."   
In the face of his continued mockery of 
her she turned on her heel and went into   
the emporium.   Her purchases were completed very quickly even though she could 
not bring herself to concentrate on the matter.    
She was, all the while, aware of the earl 
awaiting her outside, and in his new phaeton 
everyone else in the vicinity could not help 
but be aware of it, too.    
Even after exchanging pleasantries with 
several acquaintances she could no longer 
delay leaving the premises, watched by sev  
eral pairs of curious eyes.   He had been tapping his riding whip against his gloved 
hands, but the moment he saw her leave the 
shop he stepped forward.    
 Where next, my lady?"   
Again she sensed his mockery and she 
stiffened even more.    I believe I have sufficient purchases for today, I thank you.    
Please be good enough to return me to 
Mount Street."   
One of his eyebrows rose a little.    You 
are a most abstemious lady."   
 I see no cause to purchase gee gaws simply for the pleasure of it."   
 You will find few enough ladies in agree  
ment with you on that score."   
With due ceremony he handed her up 
into the seat once more and Sabina wished   
she could relax sufficiently to enjoy the ex  
perience.   On one occasion she had learned 
that several bucks had entered into a wager 
to see which one of them she would ride 
with in the Park.   In the event she had re  
fused all of them, but she did wonder if Lord Ashendon had entered into a similar   
wager.    
When he climbed up next to her he took 
the ribbons once more and said,  Have any 
steps been taken to apprehend the villain 
who attempted to rob you?"   
 There seems no point in pursuing the 
matter.   No harm was done."   
 Save to your sensibilities."   
He cast her an anxious glance and she 
smiled wanly.     I was quite soon recovered. "   
 That is not Misses Newby's opinion."   
 My aunt, fond as I am of her, tends to 
fuss far too much, especially as I seem par  
ticularly prone to attracting thieves.    
 Indeed you are," he answered in a heavy 
tone.    
 Tell me, my lord, is the talk still of this 
matter?" she asked in an effort to lighten 
the depths of the gloom which had de  
scended upon them.    
 No, you will be glad to learn that more 
recent developments have taken precedence   
over your misfortune.   There has been an 
elopement which inevitably has caused the 
tongues to rattle.   Miss Neyne has run off 
with her mother's physician "   
Sabina clapped one hand to her lips.    
 How famous!   She was always so top  
lofty." Then she cast him an apologetic 
look.    Forgive me, my lord.   I forgot      
did you not. .                 
 No, Lady Montford, I did not.   If I were 
to pay court to half the ladies attributed to 
me I should have no time to eat, sleep or 
indulge in any other activity."   
She couldn't help but laugh at the truth 
of that statement before saying,  The tattle  
baskets are not always particular to relay the 
strictest truth of any on dit."   
He seemed to draw a small sigh before re  
plying,  Quite often it is as well they do not."   
His manner was suddenly mystifying and 
she cast him a curious look as the phaeton 
came into Mount Street once more.   Sabina, 
in spite of her initial reluctance to be with 
him, was all at once sorry that their brief 
outing was at an end.    
As the phaeton drew up outside the house 
again she prepared to climb down, but drew 
back when he said,  Lady Montford, I have 
often of late had the feeling I might have   
offended you, although I cannot think how 
that might be."   
For the moment Sabina was at a loss for 
words, for she had not expected such bluntness from him.   She was about to demur 
when she thought better of it and she sat 
down again.    
 There is a small matter which has been 
teasing me.    
He frowned.    Then I beg of you tell me 
what it is."   
She drew in a deep breath and stared 
down at her gloved hands.    When I first 
came to London, did you ask Lady Sefton 
to send me vouchers for Almack's?"   
For once he appeared discomforted.    
 Why do you ask?"   
 Did you?"   
He looked down at the ribbons he still 
held in his hands.    I did but in the event 
there was no need for me to trouble." She 
met his gaze levelly and he went on, speak  
ing softly,  Lady Sefton informed me that 
she intended to take you up as she feared 
there might be those who would seek to 
snub you.   As the daughter in law of an old 
friend she deemed it her duty to make certain of your social success." He paused be  
fore adding,  Even if your entry to Almack's   
had been aided by me, I cannot conceive 
why you should take it amiss."   
She was hard put to explain; she was not 
certain she understood herself.   Sabina certainly felt foolish and scarce knew what to 
say to him now.    
 A considerable time has passed now 
since Montford   
Whatever he had intended to say was lost 
to her for all at once she stiffened as she 
looked past him and across the road.    
Aware of her sudden tension his words 
died away and he frowned, saying,  Lady 
Montford?"   
She returned her attention to him again.    
 I do beg your pardon.   I am being foolish, 
I fear.   Just for a moment I thought there 
was someone in the alleyway watching us." 
She laughed, feeling uncomfortable.    I tend 
to be rather fanciful nowadays."   
He turned around and after a moment or 
two conceded,  I see no one."   
 If anyone was, in fact, there, he has gone 
now."   
He peered at her drawn features before 
asking,  What type of person did you see?"   
She shook her head.    I cannot be certain 
           a shadow, a feeling, no more than that."   
 Do you think it may be the wretch who 
 attempted to rob you?"   
  I.           don't know.   Surely not.   Oh, I am 
persuaded I am making a cake of myself.    
You must ignore my corkbrained notions."   
He was still considering her carefully, to 
her further confusion.    You are not, I 
think, by nature fanciful."   
She rewarded him with a grateful smile.    
 I just wish I could rid myself of the notion 
the man was known to me."   
 Did you recognise something about 
him?"   
 No!   Every time I attempt to think about 
what I saw I recollect only a moving shadow, 
 and yet I cannot rid myself of the certainty 
there was something familiar about him."   
The earl looked grim and she said de  
 spairingly,  You would not be to blame if 
you considered my attic was to let."   
 That has never occurred to me.   Your 
anxiety is understandable.   You can be as  
sured if I catch the wretch who has caused 
you this fear he will receive the whipping 
of his life."   
Involuntarily her eyes filled with tears.    
 Your kindness is so comforting.   Indeed 
everyone has been so kind.   Even Lord Am  
brose entreated me to go to the country,   
and I am beginning to recognise the wisdom 
of his words."   
 Indeed?   Why would he suggest such a 
thing whilst the Season is still on?"   
 It was out of consideration for my sen  
sibilities.   He knows I have always preferred 
living in the country.   Perchance he thinks 
I would still be happy there even now."   
 And would you?"   
She was unprepared for that question.   Af  
ter a moment's hesitation she answered with 
a sigh,  I really cannot say.   Everyone in 
Town has been so kind to me I should be 
reluctant to leave just yet."   
 Well, Tommy Ambrose has never appeared to me to be the type of man to consider others kindly."   
 Nor to me, but I must own since Mont  
ford died he has been uncommonly concerned for my welfare."   
 Yes, I can quite understand that," he 
replied in a thoughtful tone.    
She looked up at him again, tears still 
sparkling on her lashes.    I am being very 
tiresome.    
He smiled at her in a way which made 
her wish to cry even more and several tears 
did spill on to her cheeks.    Tiresome is not 
a word I should use to describe you, Lady   
Montford.   I trust it is not I who has caused 
your tears."   
She brushed them away with an impatient 
hand.    If so,  tis only out of gratitude."   
He leaned forward and brushed away   
   with his finger one tear she had missed.    I 
am glad to hear you say so, for I would never 
knowingly cause you pain."   
   Sabina stared at him, unable to speak or 
Ieven move.    for a long moment he held her 
gaze and then, in what seemed to be a de  
liberate gesture, he turned away and 
climbed down from the phaeton.    
When he came round, she allowed him 
to help her down.   The hand she placed 
briefly in his was none too steady and she 
was glad when he relinquished it.    
Bidding him a quick farewell she hurried Into the house, but from the hall she 
watched him drive away.   As the sound of 
the carriage faded away into the distance, 
unwillingly she glanced once more across 
the street.   Nothing stirred in the shadows 
and, drawing a sigh, Sabina turned to hurry 
up the stairs before her aunt could come 
and question her on her ride.    
Fifteen   
 

Never seen anyone look so fine " Daisy de  
clared as she completed her mistress's toilette.    
Sabina got up from the dressing table stool 
and was forced to agree.   Madame Duvalle 
had once again done her proud.   Her gown 
was of cloth of gold, embroidered with golden beads matching the domino she drew 
over it.   Daisy handed her a gold spangled 
mask which Sabina held up to her face.    
 I don't believe such a large assembly was 
held here even when the late Lady Montford 
was alive."   
 So the other servants tell me, ma'am.    
They also say," she hesitated,  the late 
Lord Montford would have enjoyed it."   
Sabina drew a sigh.    for some reason of 
late she fought shy of thinking about her 
husband and when she did it was difficult 
for her to recall his features with any clarity.    
 It does seem wrong, somehow," she 
mused a moment later,  to hold a masquerade whilst our soldiers are marching to 
meet Boney again."   
 Balls, routs and all diversions were held   
Ithroughout the war, my lady," Daisy 
pointed out.    
Sabina smiled.    You are always full of good 
sense.   You never fail to cure my dismals."   
 You are not often afflicted, ma'am, not 
like some I've heard tell.   Is there anything 
else I can do for you?"   
 No, I thank you; you have done very 
well.   Go and partake of some refreshment 
with the others.    
Daisy curtseyed.    Thank you, my lady.    
If you want me you just have to ring."   
 Very soon our guests will be arriving so 
I shall slip downstairs presently and be 
ready to greet them."   
When Daisy had gone Sabina wandered 
restlessly across the room.   She scarce recognised the woman she had been only eigh  
teen months earlier.   It was certain that the 
mousy individual content to be ignored and   
only to fetch and carry was gone for ever.    
There was even a doubt in her mind whether   
she could bear to retire to Tunbridge Wells 
in due course after all.   She had come to 
enjoy the giddy world so much she doubted 
if she could now turn away from it.    
After hesitating for a moment she pushed 
open the door to Toby's dressing room, 
which she had avoided using at all since his   
death.   Shadows made her draw back, then 
lifting a branch of candles from the dressing 
table, she went inside.   Just as it had been 
in his lifetime the shaving stand still re  
mained, his razors, pomades and colognes 
as they were when he was alive.    
Sabina found it odd to recall how much 
in love she had been then.   She might have 
been another person entirely, and however 
many gentlemen now pursued her she was 
determined to resist all their charms.   She 
could not trust her own judgement in choos  
ing a husband and she certainly had no in  
tention of taking a lover.    
Absently she lifted the stopper of one of 
the bottles of cologne.   The familiar sickly 
odour assailed her nostrils in a flood of re  
membrance.   She had always disliked that 
particular cologne and yet, she remembered, he had worn it on their wedding day.    
Suddenly she thrust the stopper back in the 
neck of the bottle, her skin breaking out in 
goose pimples.    For no apparent reason she 
was assailed by pure terror.    
 Sabina!   Sabina dear, where are you?   Do 
tell me if I look too foolish."   
At the sound of her aunt's voice Sabina's  
fear fled, together with her curiosity as to 
the reason for it.   She went back into the   
bed chamber to discover her aunt looking at 
herself in the cheval mirror, a silver threaded 
domino covering her gown of purple velvet.    
There were tiny feathers stuck to her mask 
Imatching the larger ones in her hair.    
Sabina's face relaxed into a smile.    No, 
Aunt Rose, you look fine."   
 On my way here I could hear the orchestra tuning up," Misses Newby informed 
her, hardly able to conceal her excitement.    
 We had better go down and receive your 
guests, my dear.   I feel that this is going to 
be the most wonderful evening."   
Sabina recalled that Lord Ashendon had 
made her promise him the first waltz, and 
replied,  Yes, Aunt Rose, I am persuaded 
it will be."   
The ballroom at Montford House was 
ablaze with countless candles for the first 
time in almost two years.   During the weeks 
preceding the masquerade ball, the massive 
Venetian chandeliers had been taken down 
by an army of servants and thoroughly 
cleaned.   Now they sparkled almost as 
brightly as the King's ransom of jewels worn 
by the ladies and gentlemen present.    
   Sabina gazed around her at the sight of   
   the whirling dancers, a mass of gold, silver   
and black,  which she had decided would be 
worn by the gentlemen.   In addition to the 
dancing and cards, it was a great lark for 
everyone to identify their friends behind 
some cunningly designed masks.   Many of 
them covered the entire face and head, ren  
dering identification much more difficult.    
Of course, as everyone was masked it did 
lead to a great deal of liberties being taken.    
Gentlemen feigned mistaken identity in order to kiss and fondle ladies of their fancy, 
but as always it was taken in good heart.    
 My dear, this is a splendid hurricane, 
Lady Sefton declared.    You have the making of an excellent hostess and it is a great 
pity that poor Montford is not here to wit  
ness it."   
There was no mistaking this lady even 
behind a mask and domino and Sabina re  
plied,  I am gratified you are enjoying your  
self, my lady."   
 There is not one of us who is not," she 
added with a chuckle.    
As she moved away Sabina caught sight 
of a man she believed to be Lord Ambrose, 
recognisable only by the splendid cabochon 
ruby he wore in his neck cloth.   She was 
trying to decide the identity of a man who 
seemed vaguely familiar to her when Lord   
Ashendon came to claim her for a set, and 
she put the teasing problem from her mind.    
 All the talk tonight is of a new hostess 
in the beau monde," he told her.    
 That, I suspect, is flummery," she answered, nonetheless delighted.    
 How can you doubt it?" he asked in 
mock surprise.   Anyone of any conse  
quence is here tonight, including two Royal 
dukes.   Do you not realise you have captured 
the imagination and the hearts of those who 
are usually too jaded to care about yet another masquerade?"   
 You told me something similar once be  
fore, which I discovered to be moonshine."   
His eyes twinkled behind his mask.    
 Lady Montford, I assure you I am not 
roasting you.   Everything you do excites 
more interest.   Your origins are romantic, 
you refuse to wear the magnificent Montford jewels and you remain aloof from suitors which has resulted in it now being said 
that you wear the willow for Montford and 
are like to doo so forever.   A tale worthy of 
Scott, I fancy."   
She was not fated to reply, for they were 
parted in the set.   Her new partner was the 
man she had seen with Lord Ambrose and   
who had caused her to ponder on his identity.    
 I am teasing myself as to your identity, 
sir," she said immediately.    
 Is that not the intention, my lady?" he 
replied in a voice muffled by his mask.    You 
must wait until it is time to unmask."   
Before she could question him more 
closely they were obliged to change partners 
again.   Once again partnering the earl, she 
asked,  Do you know who Ambrose was 
with a short while ago?"   
He laughed.    Ah, the vexations of a masquerade.   It is like to be Sir Godfrey Toone.    
He and Ambrose are always together at such 
functions.   It is said that when they are foxed 
they help one another stand up."   
She laughed at that notion before saying, 
 It is not Sir Godfrey, of that I am certain."   
The country dance ended and Sabina re  
luctantly took her leave of him to mingle 
once again with her guests.    
One young debutante drew Sabina to one 
side saying breathlessly,  Is it true, my 
lady, you have received more than a score 
of offers of marriage this Season?   Lucy Congleton has wagered it is so."   
Sabina laughed, for it was true she had 
received several offers.   As all the gentlemen   
making them were impoverished noblemen 
out to supplement their allowances she had 
declined each one of them with scarce a 
thought.   Several more gentlemen had 
sought to make her their chere amie.   Again 
Sabina had resisted their offers but her un  
availability seemed to encourage them all 
the more.    
 Not quite that many, Miss Peyton," she 
replied.    
 It is said Lord Ashendon has come up 
to scratch, and you have arranged tonight's 
diversion so you may announce it."   
Sabina stiffened before saying in an icy 
tone,  I cannot conceive where you may 
have heard such a tale, but I can vouch that 
it is quite untrue.    
The girl seemed blissfully unaware of her 
hostess's discomforture and went on,  But 
he is so handsome, and eligible, too.   If Boney comes I'd as lief have Ashendon at my 
side as any other."   
 Who says Boney will come?" Sabina de  
manded.    
 If he has contrived to escape Elba and 
raise his army again, he is capable of any  
thing.   At least that is what Mama says, and 
she is never wrong.   Mama also says I should 
set my cap at Lord Ashendon, but most of   
us who came out this Season regard him a 
lost cause."   
Sabina tapped her fan against her hand.    
 If that is so, I cannot be held responsible."   
The girl was wide eyed.    You must be 
aware, my lady, that wearing the willow for 
Lord Montford is almost certain to attract 
intense interest.    
 I can think of no gentleman who would 
be so foolish as to be encouraged by a lady's 
devotion to another.   Pray excuse me, Miss 
Peyton."   
As she walked away she felt quite weak 
and hoped the general talk was not of her 
and the earl.   She was almost immediately 
accosted by Sir Godfrey Toone who appeared to have availed himself of the plentiful supply of champagne and was in very 
high spirits.    
 Lady Montford, allow me to say this is 
a very tolerable diversion."   
 It gratifies me to hear you say so," she 
replied with no enthusiasm, for her mind 
still dwelled on what the young woman had 
said.    
The earl had been very attentive of late 
and she wondered what she would do if he 
did come up to scratch.   Her heart beat furiously at the thought, even though she did   
discount it.   In all honesty she could not take 
the possibility seriously.   Lord Ashendon 
was a renowned flirt.   In this Season alone 
he had given many debutantes cause to 
hope.    
 Lady Montford?"   
She stared at Sir Godfrey and realised he 
had been asking her to stand up for one of 
the sets.   She smiled apologetically, answer  
ing at last,  Yes, I thank you.   The minuet; 
 I should like that." Just as he was about to 
move away she asked as an afterthought, 
  Tell me, Sir Godfrey, who is the gentleman 
who arrived with Lord Ambrose?   I cannot 
place him."   
Sir Godfrey laughed in a bewildered manner.    I fear you are mistaken, my lady, I 
 can think of no one who arrived with Lord 
Ambrose. "   
 I am quite persuaded that they did."   
 If I recall correctly Ambrose arrived at 
the same time as I, and I can vouch he was 
alone."   
She nodded, feeling foolish.    Masquer  
ades can pose vexing questions, Sir Godfrey."   
that  is quite true, although," his gaze 
strayed over her,  no one can be in any   
doubt who the triumph of the evening must 
be."   
He bowed low before her, leaving Sabina 
with burning cheeks.   Maddeningly, though, 
she continued to catch sight of the mysterious man in his black domino and his identity was beginning to plague her.   It was 
vexing not to be able to place a gentleman 
who was almost certain to be very well  
known to her, and she deliberately went in 
search of Lord Ambrose in the hope that 
he could settle the matter once and for all.    
However, he was not to be found and she 
became trapped in the company of a par  
ticularly persistent suitor, a Mister Dalgleish, 
who was disgustingly wealthy, had excellent 
connections but persisted in offering her all 
manner of inducements to become his mistress.   His overpainted face and exaggerated 
mode of dress only served to repulse her 
although his conversation was entertaining 
enough for a short period.    
The first waltz of the evening was an  
nounced and before Sabina could excuse 
herself from Mister Dalgleish, Lord Ashendon 
came to claim her for the promised dance.    
 Look here, Ashendon," the other man 
protested,  you cannot persist in standing 
up with your hostess."   
 Can I not?" the earl replied urbanely.    
  In any event we are all masked.   You cannot 
be at all certain who is behind mine.    
 The man laughed and bowed as the earl 
 led her on to the dance floor for the new 
dance which had, at first, scandalised So  
 ciety, for it meant that the gentleman held 
his partner very close.   Now it was included 
 in every programme, but Sabina had yet to 
dance it with the earl.   She could not stop 
her heart beating at the thought.   Her feelings when this man was nearby were chaotic; she could scarce think straight.   No 
one, not even Montford, had contrived to 
have this effect upon her emotions.    
As he clasped her around the waist he 
said softly,   Tis true, Lady Montford, I 
am being unfair to my fellow guests in de  
manding too much of your time."   
Breathlessly, she answered,  I am not 
protesting, my lord, but perchance some 
other ladies present tonight might."   
 What other ladies?   I am aware of only 
one."   
The music began and she danced with a 
light step, realising that she had never felt 
so happy.   Everyone present, it seemed, was 
imbued with good spirits, much of it provided by the ever flowing champagne, but   
Sabina knew the origin of her own happi  
ness was from quite a different source.   Of 
late she had been unusually ebullient but 
always with a degree of reservation, for she 
was aware of the danger ahead of her.   Hav  
ing experienced dire unhappiness before, 
she would not wish to return to that 
wretched condition so she had kept a level 
head and told herself she might enjoy Lord 
Ashendon's company, but must not allow 
herself to lose her heart completely.   It was 
all too likely he was as much of a rogue as 
Montford had been.   Even bearing that in 
mind Sabina knew she would always re  
member this evening because of him.    
Sixteen   


The evening progressed very pleasantly.   Sabina scarcely sat out one set and when she 
did it was of her own choosing.   During the 
excellent repast served in the salon adjacent 
to the ballroom, Sabina mixed with her 
guests who were all eager to congratulate 
her on a successful diversion.   She caught a 
fleeting glance of the young man whom she 
still could not place.   Mentally she combed 
through the guest list and still could not put   
a face  to a name and she began to suspect 
he might have gatecrashed although all invitations had been scrutinised and several 
wayward bucks turned away at the door.    
However, when she caught sight of Lord 
Ashendon with Misses Cardew, whom he had 
taken in to supper, she forgot entirely the 
other man.    
The woman was chattering away although 
the earl was attending her with great interest,      Suddenly he looked up and caught Sabina's eye.   It seemed as though, behind his   
 mask,  there was no change in his expression, but her breath caught in her throat 
and she was assailed by a longing which was 
almost a pain.   It was as if no one else but 
 the two of them were present in the room.    
And then misses   Cardew tapped him on the 
arm with her fan.   He was obliged to return 
his attention to her and at the same time 
Sabina's own attention was claimed although she could scarce attend to what the 
man was saying.    
A little later she surveyed the littered sup  
per table with a good deal of satisfaction.    
Only one or two people still lingered in there 
to take further helpings, whilst others had 
returned to the ballroom to resume dancing 
and to await the magic moment when the   
masks and dominoes would be removed to 
reveal the splendour beneath.    
As he left the supper room Lord Am  
brose, seeming a little unsteady on his feet, 
said to her,  I have a friend who admires 
you and wishes to reveal his identity to you, 
my lady."   
Sabina laughed.    I believe I have already 
spoken to him.   I look forward to the un  
masking."   
 So does he," Lord Ambrose replied, 
chuckling.   sabina's  smile froze on her face, 
for she did not like his attitude even if it 
did arise from his bosky condition.    My 
friend would like to unmask in the garden.    
Shall you join him there, my lady?"   
She stiffened at the suggestion.    Certainly not, Lord Ambrose, and she im  
mediately turned away from him.    
Moments later he was gone and she drew 
a sigh of relief.   When a short while after  
wards she heard a step behind her she 
turned on her heel, fearing he might have 
returned to plague her.   It was however the 
earl who was standing in the doorway.   Her 
heart gave a little leap at the sight of him 
and she said, feeling a mite foolish,  Precious little remains.    
He came further into the room, nodding   
to several guests who were on their way Out   
having been  revived by so excellent a repast."   
 You are very kind to say so, Lord AshEndon."Tis only the truth and indeed not a very 
original one.   Everyone else is saying so, 
too.   He paused for a moment before asking,  Are you engaged for this set?"   
 No, I             have deliberately kept some 
free, to mingle with my guests."   
 What an excellent hostess."   
She could not be certain he was not mock  
ing her, but her head came up proudly.    I 
have to try much harder than anyone else, 
because of my origins and also because there 
is no host to help me."   
 You have done admirably well, and you 
have no cause to feel shame at your origins."   
Her chin came up even higher.    I do not, 
I assure you."   
 Will you do me the honour of standing 
up with me, my lady?"   
Her face relaxed into a smile then.    If 
you insist upon it, you truly will be inviting 
the accusation of monopolising my company."   
 I really could not care what is said of me 
in that respect, but if you do not wish.        
She smiled in mitigation.    In truth, my 
lord, I am a trifle weary.   It has been a long 
evening."   
He was at once contrite.    I am remiss 
indeed.   Pray allow me to find you a seat."   
 I would prefer a little fresh air.   The air 
has grown hot and stuffy in here and I was 
contemplating retiring to the balcony for a 
few moments."   
 I insist that you allow me to escort you 
into the garden.   A few minutes there will 
revive you far better."   
The thought of Ambrose's friend await  
ing her there was both tempting and re  
pugnant.   However if the earl was with her 
no problem could arise.    
She fingered her fan nervously.    Your 
Partners. . .             You will be missed."   
He eyed her with amusement.    Perhaps, 
but no more than you.   Are you willing to 
take such a dire risk?"   
Before she could answer he took her arm 
and began to lead her down the stairs and 
towards the garden which was on that eve  
ning festooned with lanterns.    
A great many guests who were grouped 
in the upper and lower halls saw them together.   Sabina rather hoped Lord Ashendon 
would not be recognised but she doubted   
that.   He was not a man to remain anonymous and Sabina suddenly found she did 
not care.   There was no cause for subterfuge, 
for she had been a widow for eighteen 
months, moreover she had never been a 
wife.   Everyone must know that, too.    
She drew her domino about her as they 
stepped on to the gravelled walk, lit by 
many coloured lanterns.   Music drifted from 
the ballroom on the still night air, punc  
tuated only by the shouts and laughter of 
those lurking in the shrubbery.    
She glanced around, wondering if Lord 
Ambrose's friend was awaiting her some  
where close by, and if he would, after all, 
turn out to be someone she knew very well.    
Perhaps a man who had been paying court 
to her.    
  Even the weather favours you tonight."   
The sound of the earl's voice caused her 
to dismiss all other thoughts from her mind.    
 So it would seem," she replied, drawing 
a satisfied sigh.    I am so glad you prevailed 
 upon me to come out here.   I can breathe 
again "   
He moved a few paces away from her and 
she said,  This is the happiest night of my 
life."   
As she gazed up at the starlit sky he   
seemed to be studying her gravely and then 
he said,  But that happiness must be tempered by the sad knowledge that Montford 
is no longer here to share it with you."   
On such a splendid evening she really did 
not wish to hear him speak of Montford and 
it took her a while to reply.   At last she answered in a muted tone,  I fear I am not 
quite the same person he married.   If he were 
to see me now it is like he would not recognise me.   Mayhap he would even be dis  
appointed.   He had many opportunities of 
marrying women who were like the one I 
have become.   He chose someone quite different but now all is changed, not the least 
my feelings.    
 I am persuaded he could not help but 
be exceeding proud of you."   
She smiled with some uncertainty.    
 Thank you, my lord.   Your regard is very 
heartening.    
 More than that, I trust," he said in a 
low, harsh voice.   She stepped back, startled 
and at a loss for words.    Sabina, have you 
not guessed that my regard for you is a deep 
one which goes beyond the bounds of mere 
politeness."   
At that moment a group of bucks passed 
by, laughing and chasing some young females.   One of them, she was certain, was 
Lord Ambrose, the worse for drink.   Sabina 
Ftook the opportunity of moving away from 
the earl, but then when the others had 
passed and they were alone again he came 
up to her once more, gazing down at her as 
she averted her eyes.    
  I believe the time has come to unmask,  
he said and there seemed to be a significance 
in his words.    
He untied his own mask and tossed it 
aside before reaching out to unfasten hers.    
At first she flinched away and then as her   
eyes met his it was as if she had become 
  mesmerised by him.   He untied her mask   
and tossed that one away too.    
For a long moment he gazed into her eyes 
and then he cupped her face in his hands, 
drawing it gently towards his.   When he 
kissed her she did not demur.   The touch of 
his lips released in her a torrent of emotion 
which had been held captive within her for   
   so long and after a few moments she responded wholeheartedly.    
Her heart was lost; she had known it for 
a long time but only now did she admit it 
to herself.   If he was merely indulging in a 
light flirtation she would face the consequences later; now it was enough to revel   
in the wonder of his embrace and the marvel 
of his kisses which elevated her heart to a 
height never before reached.   She felt as if 
she could reach the stars and the moon.    
In the deep recesses of her mind she heard 
the music begin again and with a great deal 
of reluctance drew away from him.    I must 
return to the ballroom; I am engaged for 
the country dance."   
Her voice shook ever so slightly as he held 
on to her hand so she could not draw away 
from him.    Don't go.   Not now."   
 I must."   
He smiled and drew her closer again, 
touching her lips lightly with his.   Once 
again his touch elicited a fevered response 
in her.   Then, as he held her away he gazed 
deep into her eyes which were shining with 
joy.    
 Save the cotillion for me."   
 Yes," she breathed as she drew away 
completely.    Yes."   
She turned back towards the house, 
throwing off her domino in a gesture of pure 
joy as she ran through the garden.   Her feet 
didn't seem to be touching the ground at 
all.    
Seventeen   


The house was oddly silent after the last 
carriage had driven away.   Unbelievably 
happy, but very tired Sabina surveyed the 
 chaos left behind.    
   By noon tomorrow you will not know a 
ball had taken place here," aunt Rose told," her.    All this will be neat again by the time 
we rise."   
 Tis almost morning already.   I am very 
reluctant to allow the evening to end.   It has 
been quite, quite wonderful."   
 Oh, indeed.   I cannot recall when I have 
enjoyed myself more," the old lady confided, chuckling softly.    I dare not imagine 
what your Uncle Eustace would say if he 
had seen me cavorting around the ballroom 
tonight."   
Sabina laughed, thinking of the late Eustace Newby, a rather dour and cheerless 
man who would have regarded any part of 
 the social season with great disdain.    
Misses Newby eyed her niece thoughtfully 
 for a moment or two before suggesting,   
    You should retire now, dear.   You are beginning to look all done up."   
 I am, Aunt Rose, but I fear I shall not 
sleep for excitement.    
Misses Newby continued to eye her 
thoughtfully before saying,  It pleases me 
to see you and Lord Ashendon on good 
terms at last."   
 No more than it pleases me," was Sabina's lighthearted reply, and then she 
kissed her aunt's cheek, adding,  Go along 
up; I shall follow shortly."   
 See that you do."   
Sabina watched her go and then hugged 
herself with excitement.   Being alone meant 
she could relive in her mind every word he 
had spoken to her and that magical interlude 
in the garden.   There had been moments 
when she thought she might have imagined 
it, but subsequent encounters with the earl, 
his attitude towards her, proved that it had 
been real.    
With everyone departing within a short 
time of each other, he had merely been able 
to raise her hand to his lips, but the expression in his eyes had spoken more eloquently 
than a thousand words.    
She sighed with contentment as she went 
into the sitting room where the card tables 
still remained.   Cards had been left on the 
tables as if awaiting ghostly hands to pick   
them up again.   A discarded black domino 
 was draped over a chair.   As she fingered it 
a faintly familiar odour assailed her senses.    
She froze, as suddenly her good spirits evaporated leaving behind a feeling only of fear.    
The door to the sitting room closed with 
a bang, causing her to start and to turn on   
   her heel, her eyes wide with fear.    
 What?"               Her eyes opened even    wider.    My God "   
 The handsome, smiling face she had   
   never thought to see again grew blurred be  
 fore her eyes as he said in a voice heavy with 
irony,  Good morning, my lady."   
    Toby," she gasped.    Oh no, this is fool  
ishness!   It cannot be you."   
She groped for a chair and sat down, all 
the while aware that this was not a dream 
either.    My God, I cannot believe what I 
see. "   
 Tis truly your husband, have no doubt, 
Sabina," he told her as he came further into 
the room.    Shame on you for not recognising your own husband.   I have been present 
all evening.   We even danced together 
briefly."   
 So it was you." She turned away, unable 
to tolerate the taunting smile any longer.    
 Oh, Toby, how could you?   How is it possible?"   
She lapsed into a momentary silence, still 
numb and unbelieving.   He went to pour 
himself a drink and she stared sightlessly 
ahead of her, shocked beyond reason.    
After a moment he brought back his 
drink and sat down on the far side of the 
sofa.    I must confess, Sabina, you have 
done very well.   I would never have credited 
you with such social ambition.   Ambrose 
told me of your sudden elevation to the haute 
ton, but I could scarce believe it until now."   
Her head snapped up.    Ambrose?   Did 
he know you were not             dead?"   
 Oh, indeed.   There is nought you have 
done of which he did not apprise me."   
She covered her face with her hands.    
 Tell me how it happened.   There was a duel   
You   
He laughed and she hated the sound of 
it.    You could not truly believe I would 
lose, especially against a cock al orum like   
what was his name?   I declare I have 
forgotten.    
 Henderson.    
 Ah yes, I recall now.   The drunken, 
swaggering fool."   
 There must have been two of you."   
 Well, foxed or not I shot him quite dead.    
I was foxed when I became leg shackled to 
you, but even more so when I accepted the 
challenge to a duel.   He really wasn't worthy 
of the honour I accorded him, and I certainly would not have done if I had been 
sober."   
 Oh, that is of no account " she snapped.    
 What happened?"   
 I have already told you; I shot him, Sabina."   
 Afterwards," she cried, as if in pain.    
Tears sparkled on her lashes like drops of 
crystal.    
He looked suddenly grim.    When it was 
over I sobered up pretty quickly.   Such 
events have that effect.   I was overcome with 
what I had done.   I hardly knew what to 
think although I knew I was in great trouble.   Believe it or not I was overcome by 
remorse.   If I could, at that moment, I would 
have renounced my scape grace ways, but it 
was too late.   It seemed I was all dished up, 
in dun territory, made a mesalliance, and it 
seemed best to die. "   
Sabina had listened with growing horror 
at the tale.    So Bill Henderson is lying in 
your grave."   
 Afraid so," he replied, downing the last   
of his wine.    Whilst you were mourning 
your husband I was on the morning packet 
to the Continent where I have been obliged 
to reside ever since."   
 I have never heard such an infamous 
tale."   
Suddenly he looked angry.    Sabina, I 
would have given anything not to have 
killed that fellow, but once it was done I 
could only think to save my own skin.    
Would you have preferred to share my dis  
grace?"   
 Yes," she answered in heartfelt tones, 
 Oh, yes indeed I would," and then, making a conscious effort to control her emotion, asked,  How did you contrive to live?"   
He grinned at her, causing her heart to 
fill with hatred.    Not as well as you, I'll 
wager.   Sold my diamond tie pin and my 
gold hunter and fobs.   It's not been easy of 
late, I grant you.   Since I've been back from 
Paris it has been difficult for me to contrive 
at all."   
Suddenly Sabina clapped one hand to her 
lips.    It was you in my room that night.   I 
know now why I was so certain I was acquainted with the culprit; the odour of your 
cologne."   
 Came up through the servant's entrance.    
Ambrose told me you'd be at Vauxhall that 
night." As she continued to stare at him in 
horror he grew angry again.    I needed the 
money.   Do you know what it is like to have 
none?   Hell's teeth, Sabina, the jewellery is 
mine!   Anyway, I didn't trouble you again, 
did I?"   
 You sent Ambrose instead," she said in 
a quiet voice.    
 Sending him to beg the blunt in a 
straightforward way seemed the best thing 
to do.   I should have done so in the first 
instance.   Stealing the jewellery was a crack  
brained scheme, but I was desperate."   
 You always are, and you scared me half 
to death."   
 Never meant to, old girl," he admitted, 
taking a pinch of snuff.    
Another thought suddenly came into her 
head.    Do not tell me that you arranged for 
the cutpurse to steal my reticule."   
He didn't answer; he merely averted his 
eyes and she began to shiver.   After a moment's hesitation he went to try and kindle 
some warmth from the dying fire.   Tears 
were still perilously close to her eyes and 
she fought them back valiantly.   He was far 
worse than she had ever dared to believe.    
There wasn't a shred of decency about him.    
For the first time since seeing him again, 
she thought of Lord Ashendon and the 
bright promise of his kisses, but immediately she put firmly from her mind the implications of no longer being a widow.    
Montford, however, did not miss her 
tears and as she came back to the sofa he 
said,  Tears of gladness, eh, Sabina?   You 
were head over ears in love with me, I re  
call."   
She loathed the reminder that she had 
ever been so foolish and said through 
clenched teeth,  I was a green girl."   
 Indeed.   You are far more to my fancy 
now."   
 Why on earth did you marry me?"   
He shrugged.    It was a whim.   It just suddenly occurred to me.   The old lady was 
going on and on about getting leg shackled 
and there you were.   Can't say I'm sorry now 
though."   
She made a conscious effort to move away 
from him.    I sold the estate only because 
you were supposed to be dead."   
 I know.   You're a clever girl, Sabina.   A 
damned clever girl.   Never would have 
thought it of you." He reached out to touch 
her hand but she snatched it away.    It really 
does solve all our problems, doesn't it?"   
 Does it?" she snapped.    Toby, your 
mother died believing you dead; her heart 
was broken."   
A muscle twitched in his cheek.    I know.    
It's damned bad luck, Sabina, but what 
could I do?   I had no face but my own, I 
was ruined root and branch.   I had to take   
   french leave.   There was no other choice.   I 
couldn't go to jail for killing a rum cove like 
Henderson.   It would have been too awful.    
I'd never have come out alive."   
 Well, now you're back," she said in a 
dull voice.    
 Indeed, I am, and thanks to you, my 
dear, my fortunes are mended and I'm well    
breeched again.   Together we shall dazzle 
the beau monde."   
The idea made her feel quite ill.   Looking 
at his dissipated features, she could not 
credit ever having been foolish enough to 
love him.    
  Why did you come back now? " she 
asked in a small voice.    Why now, Toby?"   
He chuckled.    Because of you." She 
stared at him and he went on to explain,  I 
never thought you would aspire to the ton.    
I believed Mama would cast you out and   
  although you were entitled to remain at   
Brookfield you would return to your father.    
In truth, when I fled the country I never 
intended to return.   Your clever way with 
the family fortune changed matters a good 
deal, and as you know Europe is set to be  
come a battlefield again, so in view of the 
fact that it was reported to me a certain 
gentleman was paying court to you, I 
deemed it prudent to return before he made 
a dishonest woman of you."   
She turned away from him again as he 
asked in a silky voice,  Sabina, you have 
not been foolish enough to allow that rake 
to become your lover?"   
 No " she replied, anger and torment 
now replacing her former happiness.   And 
then she asked bitterly,  How can you hope 
to explain yourself?"   
  Tis all decided.   I have had long enough 
to ponder upon it.   I shall say I was injured 
in the duel and have spent the past eighteen 
months out of my mind with no notion as 
to my identity."   
 You're evil, Toby, really evil.   You don't 
care who you injure."   
His face stiffened.    My dear Sabina, 
whilst you have been enjoying the luxury of 
life in London these past few months have 
been uncomfortable for me."   
 The man you killed had a wife and two   
children.   I'll wager you never thought of 
them."   
His eyes grew hard.    It was a fair fight 
 he would have killed me had he been 
able and from all I have heard you have 
provided for them well.   You may be sure, 
now I am returned, the charity will be 
stopped."   
 If you do that his wife will ask questions 
you had best not invite."   
 I think not.   She is an ignorant chit with 
no connections.   I can soon make her see the   
  virtue of being silent." He looked at Sabina 
again.    I was so convinced of your devotion; 
I would have wagered upon your always 
wearing the willow for me.   You really are 
a great surprise to me and  tis no wonder 
the beau monde find you so delightful.   Our 
married life from now on will be quite different to the way it began.   I will make that 
up to you, Sabina."   
She could bear to hear him no longer and 
jumped to her feet.    No!   No, Toby.   It is 
not the same."   
He chuckled, eyeing her insolently.    I do 
not intend it to be.   You have blossomed into 
an uncommonly fetching chit.   Marriage to 
you will no longer be any hardship." He 
drew a sigh, flicking a piece of fluff from   
the leg of his breeches.    I am bound to own 
that Ashendon has excellent taste in females."   
At the mention of the earl's name she put 
her hands over her ears and then, as if to 
put as much distance between them as possible, she rushed out of the room, her errant 
husband in pursuit.    
 Sabina " he called.    Sabina, have you 
lost your reason?   Come back and let us dis  
cuss this matter."   
She paused, breathless in the hall, tears 
streaming down her cheeks.    We have dis  
cussed it sufficiently well."   
 This is foolishness.   We shall need to 
present a united appearance.    
 Oh no, Toby, I cannot bear to be under 
the same roof as you let alone share the same 
bed.   We must seek an annulment of the 
marriage."   
His eyes filled with fury.    How dare you 
suggest such a thing?   Dammit, woman, you 
were a servant in my mother's house.   Who 
do you think you are?"   
Without giving him an answer she turned 
on her heel and ran out of the door and into 
the street.   She had no notion where she 
might go, but she knew she must escape   
him.   She couldn't bear to be near to him or 
to see his ironic smile.    
 Sabina, don't be such a chuckle head," 
he called, trying to contain his anger.    I 
need you now; you know that.   You must 
still love me.   I know you do."   
At the sight of him running behind her 
she began to flee, only narrowly missing 
being knocked down by a drunken buck 
returning home after a night of carousing 
about the town.   His carriage skidded to a 
halt, the horses neighing in alarm.   Startled 
for only a moment Sabina ran on, aware that 
her husband was still behind her.   Tears 
blinded her.   Whatever was to come now, it 
was certain the earl was lost to her.   The 
knowledge was almost more than she could 
bear.    
 Sabina "   
A few link boys paused to watch the scene 
with amusement, the girl in her elegant ball 
gown pursued by a gentleman who was ev  
evidently   of the Quality.   Even in the giddy 
world of the beau monde it was not some  
thing which was often to be seen in the early 
hours of the morning.    
As she ran into Grosvenor Square he almost caught up with her, snatching at her arm.   
   Sabina, just what do you think you 
are about?" he demanded angrily.    
She glanced behind, evading his hand by 
dashing into the road.   A hackney carriage 
was just turning into the square.   Sabina 
avoided the horses by merely an inch but 
they reared up in alarm, knocking Montford 
off his feet.   She screamed.   He cried out, 
too, as the horses reared up again, this time 
stamping down on him in panic as he 
sprawled helpless on the ground.    
He didn't utter another sound after the 
initial cry of fear, but again and again Sabina 
screamed in terror.   She was only vaguely 
aware that a link boy who had dashed across 
the square to see the commotion was peering 
down at Montford's inert form.    
After a moment he cried,  Cor!   What a 
mess.   He's gone to Peg Trantum and no 
mistake."   
 He ran in front of me," cried the jarvey 
who had jumped down from the hackney.    
He looked at Sabina.    You saw it, ma'am.    
You saw him, didn't you?   Never  ad a 
chance to stop."   
Suddenly Sabina found herself enfolded 
in someone's arms.    Hush, Sabina.   It's all 
right.   It's over, all over now."   
The voice was so familiar to her.   She   
looked up to discover she was being held 
by the earl himself.   In her distress she had 
unthinkingly run towards him, and they 
were outside his house in Grosvenor Square.    
 Montford," she gasped.    He's here; 
he's hurt.   We must do something "   
He stared grimly past her, holding her 
firmly against him so she could not escape 
and run into the road.    There is nothing 
anyone can do for him now, I fear."   
A look of horror crossed her face to be 
replaced by one of disbelief.    Dead?   He 
cannot be dead."   
 This time he is."   
Her tears began to fall again and she buried her face against his coat, allowing all her 
fear and misery to dissolve at last with the 
tears.    
Eighteen   


Misses Newby folded the note she had just 
received and glanced across the sitting room 
to where her niece was resting on the window seat, her feet tucked up beneath her.    
She was staring into space, something she 
was wont to do of late, her aunt noted.   The   
Reverend Jenkins was reading his newspaper which at length he put down with a sigh.    
 It is a great blessing that Wellington has 
routed that scoundrel Buonaparte once 
more.   On this occasion he will have no opportunity to return.   He is being sent to Saint 
Helena this time."   
 Where on earth is that, pray tell me, 
James?" his sister enquired.    
 A very long way away, my dear."   
 I declare I should not like it.   After London, Tunbridge Wells seems a mite too restful for me."   
Once again she glanced at her niece before 
asking,  James, did you not say you wished 
to visit Mister Quigly?   He is exceeding ill, you 
know."   
The Reverend Jenkins got to his feet.    
 Oh yes indeed, I will go immediately.   If I 
delay it might be too late.    
For the first time in an age Sabina looked 
up.    Poor man.   Would you have me accompany you, Papa?"   
He had no opportunity to reply, for his 
sister said, hastily,  No, no dear, you 
should remain indoors at present.   You look 
a trifle hollow eyed today, and I wouldn't 
be surprised if you were not about to catch 
a chill."   
 Aunt Rose," Sabina protested.    I am 
perfectly well."   
 You must do as your aunt says," her 
father admonished.    I am in agreement 
with her, for you have looked far from well 
of late."   
Sabina drew a vexed sigh and sank back 
into the cushions once again as her father 
went out of the room.   After hesitating Misses 
Newby went to sit near her on the window 
seat.    
 My dear, you must not brood so much." 
Sabina looked away, unable to contradict 
the accusation.    You share no blame; Mont  
ford brought his fate upon himself.   Although I am loath to slander the dead, I am 
bound to say he was a wicked young man.    
You were ill used, my dear.     
 I loved him once, Aunt."   
 But no longer, I trust.   You cannot wear 
the willow, for he is not worthy of your 
devotion.    
 I do not love him.   I can scarce bear to 
think that I once did, but it was all my fault 
that he died.   If he had not.    
 If.           He was pursuing you for his own 
gain, not yours.   Had you not stood by his 
story no one would have believed that Ban  
bury Tale about losing his mind for the past   
eighteen months." When she made no re  
ply, Misses Newby went on,  You really must 
consider returning to London where there 
is a great deal of concern for you.   All your 
friends are there."   
Lord Ashendon is there, Sabina thought 
to herself, and as she did so a shaft of pain 
lanced her heart, but a moment later she 
was able to affect a smile.    I will think upon 
it, Aunt."   
Misses Newby patted her hand.    See that 
you do." She got to her feet rather hurriedly.    I must see Cook about dinner."   
 I thought you had already done so."   
For a moment Misses Newby looked confounded and then she replied,  There is 
something which I forgot."   
Sabina watched the door close behind her 
and then laid her head back against the window, drawing a sigh.   Tears pricked behind 
her lids, for she doubted if the ugliness of 
Montford's last night would ever fade from 
her mind.   His cry of fear often returned to 
haunt her in the night, chasing away sleep 
until the sun came up.   She was racked with 
guilt, not merely for causing his death, but 
for not being able to mourn him.    
The sound of a carriage coming down the 
street caused her to look out again.   Then   
she sat up straight as a curricle stopped out  
side the house.   It was far grander than those 
usually to be seen upon the streets of Tun  
bridge Wells and the escutcheon on its 
paintwork was immediately familiar to her.    
She watched as Lord Ashendon climbed 
down from the curricle, his caped driving 
coat blowing in the wind.   He handed the 
ribbons to his tiger and then he turned and 
looked up at the house for a moment or two 
before approaching.    
Sabina's heart ached with longing and 
love.   There were few enough moments in 
the day when she did not think about him 
and recall her response to his kiss, the yearning for the comfort of his embrace.    
Her aunt's parlourmaid was breathless as 
she hurried into the room and announced,   
   The Earl of Ashendon to see you, my 
lady."   
Sabina smiled, feeling all at once serene.    
 Yes, I know.   Please show him in."   
She got slowly to her feet and he came 
into the room, which seemed to shrink when 
he was present.   He looked at her anxiously 
and then came to take her hand which he 
raised to his lips.    
 This is a             great surprise," she told   
him in a breathless voice as she withdrew 
her hand from his.    
Still gazing at her he replied,  A pleasant 
one I trust."   
Her cheeks filled with colour.    Always, 
Lord Ashendon.   Yes, it is always a pleasure 
to see you.   Won't you be seated?" She went 
to sit on the chintz covered window seat 
again and he eschewed the comfortable sofas 
and chairs to join her.    The Season in London has ended but Tunbridge Wells is an 
oddly old fashioned place in which to find 
you, my lord."   
He smiled faintly.    I have no intention 
of mincing words, nor exchanging mean  
ingless pleasantries with you.   Our      
friendship has passed beyond that." As she 
looked down at her clasped hands he went 
on, speaking softly.    You must be aware 
that I come only to see you."   
At his confession she experienced a mixture of pleasure and alarm, but she felt too 
confused to answer.   After a moment or two 
he went on,  Many of your acquaintances 
are concerned for you, Sabina."   
Although it was not for the first time that 
he had used her name, it did cast her into 
deeper confusion.    I have been heartened   
by the letters and messages I have received."   
 You mustn't believe I have been neglectful these past few weeks.   I was aware 
that you needed some time to adjust to what 
had happened, but Misses Newby has been 
kind enough to keep me informed of your 
well being."   
Sabina smiled as he removed a jewelled 
snuff box from his pocket and took a pinch.    
 No doubt Aunt Rose is also aware of your 
visit today."   
 I took the liberty of asking her permission to call."   
She averted her face.    I             am very 
gratified. "   
 Such formality," he teased, and then in 
a more serious tone,  You really must not 
mourn him any  longer.   He brought about 
his own fate."   
She drew a heartfelt sigh.    I know.   I 
know."   
 Not all men are such scoundrels."   
She cast him a quick smile.     I am well 
aware of that." Then, giving him a sideways 
glance, said,  You knew him well; you were 
a crony of his."   
 We were not as well acquainted as you 
suppose."     
 You often accompanied him to Brook  
field, I recall."   
His eyes twinkled then, much to her surprise.    Mainly, I assure you, because I 
found his mother's companion such a fascinating creature.    
She gasped and he went on, staring out 
of the window now,  Don't accuse me of 
gammoning you, Sabina, for I swear it is 
true.   I was just wondering how best I could 
pay court to you when I learned of your 
marriage.   It was a devastating blow, but 
when you became a widow so soon after  
wards I saw it would be far easier to show 
you my admiration, even though you 
seemed set upon scorning me." She stared 
at him in disbelief and he put one hand over 
hers.    Sabina, you must know by now that 
I love you."   
Her eyes misted with tears.    I love you 
too, so very much and for so long."   
 I have waited a long time to hear you 
say so.   There can no longer be any bar to 
our marriage.    
Her heart leaped within her breast.    Oh, 
my dearest Adam, I am not nearly good 
enough for you."   
He put one finger beneath her chin and 
raised it until she was obliged to look at   
him through her tears.    You are as you always were, and I love you just as you are.    
I once told you I would never do anything 
to hurt you.   That is still true.   Montford 
injured you dreadfully, but I beg of you 
grant me a lifetime to prove not all men are 
as unfeeling."   
Fighting back her tears, she whispered, 
 Yes, oh yes, Adam," and allowed herself 
to be enveloped in his arms at last, revelling 
in the comfort of his kiss once more.   At 
last, breathless, she drew away a little, saying,  I vow I did not know he was alive 
until the night of the masquerade."   
 Of course you did not."   
She smiled with some uncertainty.     I 
feared it might be thought that I did."   
 No one who is the least acquainted with 
you could suspect it." He took her hand in 
his and raised it to his lips for a moment.    
 Madame Saint Gilles told me that one of her 
cronies was quite persuaded she had seen 
him in Paris.   I dismissed the notion at the 
time, but the attempted robbery at your 
house did raise my suspicions especially as 
Ambrose was wont to make cryptic remarks 
in my hearing.   All in all, when Montford 
reappeared, I cannot confess to being too 
surprised."   
 I wish you might have warned me."   
 About what, pray?    foolish suspicions?    
I hoped above all else they were unfounded 
and the mishaps which had befallen you 
were mere bagatelles like to afflict any  
one."   
The sitting room door opened and Misses 
Newby came bustling in.   She appeared flustered to find the lovers so engrossed in each 
other.    
 Oh dear             I had no notion             My 
goodness."   
Sabina laughed.    Aunt Rose, you are not 
Misses Siddons so I beg of you do not act for 
us.   You know very well who is here and 
why he is come."   
Misses Newby cast her a hurt look before 
addressing the earl,  Would you care to stay 
and have dinner with us, my lord?"   
 If it is not too much trouble."   
Misses Newby smiled.    I have already in  
formed Cook there may be another present 
for dinner, but I had best go and remind 
her.   Do excuse me."   
As she bobbed out Sabina and the earl 
laughed and he said,  She is a lady of such 
good sense."   
 She is a treasure," Sabina agreed.    
He looked at her then in all seriousness.    
 Let us marry soon and retire to the country 
to become a pair of boring rustics."   
Sabina laughed as she snuggled closer.    I 
cannot think of anything more sublime."