“But you managed to bribe some of the others, I suppose. I dare say there was one listening at the library keyhole the night before. Well, I hope Her Majesty rewards you for it, but I doubt it. She doesn’t like sneaks any more than I do, even though she isn’t above using their services. You can leave now.”
“I have to take back an answer.”
“The answer will be delivered without help from you. Take yourself off.”
Catching the Marquis’ baleful eye Sir Richard scuttled away into his carriage.
“I can’t go to this reception without you,” Lavina said urgently. “You know what the Queen is doing, don’t you?”
“Certainly I do, and there is no fear of your going without me. You may safely leave this in my hands.”
“At least tell me what you mean to do.”
“There is not the slightest necessity for y
