“I’ll get it fer you, sir,” the publican replied.
As he walked away, the Duke saw that by Aldora’s side was a small wooden stool on which stood a glass.
“Is that brandy you are drinking?” he asked.
“Yes, and it’s quite palatable, although I did not think of asking to see the bottle,” she replied, “but I shall remember that another time.”
The Duke who could feel the warmth from the fire drying his breeches, which had become soaked, asked sharply,
“Must there be another time? I am finding travelling in this weather exceedingly unpleasant!”
“You can hardly expect me to apologise for the storm!”
She paused and then added,
“I am surprised you found out so quickly that I had left.”
“Your mother went to your bedroom to speak to you.”
Aldora raised her eyebrows.
“That is strange! I have
